Commissary Changes: Refrigeration upgrade
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Athens Marathon:
Buon Appetito:
Learn its origins
Understand Italian food culture
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Vol. 32 No. 43
Sigonella remembers Veterans Day MC1 Cody R. Boyd NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - November 11 is a day set aside each year to commemorate achievements and sacrifices of veterans around the world. With roughly 20 million military veterans living in the United States, this day is significant since most Americans personally know someone who is serving or has served in the military. “Being a veteran means I have a responsibility to remember the past and mentor the future. You are really never done serving," said Adam Rosendahl, a former hospital corpsman from 1993 to 2013. The time of reflection, now known as Veterans Day, did not start out as such. On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in the year 1918, an armistice was declared between the Allied nations and Germany in World War I, a huge historical triumph leading to our observation of this time in history. On November 11, 1938 “Armistice Day,” now known as Veterans Day, became a federal holiday in the U.S. Congress officially changed the name to Veterans Day in 1954. Veterans Day is celebrated all over the world. It is common in Europe, Britain and the commonwealth countries to observe two minutes of silence at 11 a.m. every Nov. 11. France, Australia, and Canada commemorate their veterans on or near Nov. 11 as well. Veterans who chose to continue serving alongside the military after retiring or separating from the armed forces are often sent all over the world like our military men and women on active duty. They, too, make sacrifices for their families; all while serving our country. John Ogletree, Assistant Chief of Training at the Fire Department in Sigonella, said he enjoys training and learning from those who serve. "I think what I like about it is that I get to see our future taking care of some of the same stuff I was able to do as a member of the military,” said Ogletree “I get to not only watch and learn from what we're doing today serving our country but I also get to give some advice and help them on their path to be that good veteran and serve our country the right way." Being a veteran in Italy is special, according to William Garcia, an Administrator with NAS Sigonella’s Navy College Office. Garcia was stationed in Italy almost 20
years ago and said that coming back to Italy and working as a government employee means he can continue to serve his country and Sailors as a civilian. “It's a wonderful feeling to give back to the military and use the knowledge I've gained and utilize my skills and tailor to the military member to the best of my ability," said Garcia. Whether stateside or overseas, Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard, Ogletree says the teamwork and camaraderie is an important thing he learned during his service in the Air Force. "No one person is too important that they need full control of anything,” added Ogletree. “You're going to have to have your team and your guys working together and I think I try to get that especially here in our fire department with our people."
Aside from being a day off given to employees so that they may recognize their veterans, at Arlington National Cemetery a wreath-laying ceremony is held at the Tomb of the Unknowns while in other U.S. municipalities parades and celebrations pay tribute to those who have served. "It's a proud feeling to know that I was able to contribute 20 years and work with so many of my other brothers and sisters in arms and whenever it came to defend the country, to walk around and know that people appreciate it,” said Ogletree. It's not just for people who served 20 years and retired, don't assume that. It's people who served any amount of time and they should be respected as well.
Sigonella holds reverse COMREL with local national dignitaries By LT PAUL NEWELL NAS Sigonella Public Affairs Officer NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - From beach and park cleanups to historical site preservation to language and cultural exchanges with local students, business in Fiscal Year 2015 (FY-15) was certainly brisk for NAS Sigonella’s community relations (COMREL) team and the more than 3,000 volunteers who helped complete its record 207 COMREL projects and engagements. To show some appreciation, on Nov. 6 NAS Sigonella Commanding Officer, Capt. Chris Dennis, hosted nearly 75 local civic and elected leaders during a first-of-its kind “Reverse COMREL.” Though novel in execution, the concept behind the day’s event was simple: NASSIG wanted to say thank you to Sicilian leaders who put their trust in us, allowing Sig's Citizens partnership opportunities in local communities. The day included a welcome reception and base briefing at the Duomo Conference Center, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force statics displays, a K-9 Military Working Dog demonstration, a tour of Sigonella’s U.S. Air Force Remotely Piloted Aircraft Predator squadron, and finished with an American-style outdoor barbecue lunch at the Ristorante Bella Etna gazebo. Throughout the day Dr. Alberto Lunetta, NAS Sigonella’s Community Relations Director, and other Italian base employees helped with translation. “Our base community relations program, though abundant with generous and spirited volunteers would be much less impactful if not for all the Sicilian civic leaders who host our COMREL efforts,” said Dennis. “Their faith in our character, intentions and ability is what allows us the opportunities to work in our neighboring communities, to give back, and to build lasting friendships. COMRELs at their core are about friendship and they do so much good for everyone involved; Reverse COMREL is simply us saying thank you for being friends.” Those feelings were reciprocated by NASSIG's invited guests. After finishing a plateful of hamburger, hot dogs and potato salad, Fabio Cantarella, Deputy Mayor of Mascalucia, commented on his excitement in getting the chance to see the workplace of those who regularly reach out to local neighborhoods and municipalities. "I appreciate the initiative because it allowed us to learn more about the service members and civilians of the Sigonella base with whom we have carried out many community relations activities in Mascalucia,” Cantarella said. “This is certainly the highest model of integration between the Italian and American peoples here." Dr. Maria Paola Iaquinta, principal of Catania’s I.C. Cesare Battisti School, echoed the deputy mayor’s sentiments. "It was a beautiful and instructive experience,” Iaquinta
On Nov. 6 NAS Sigonella Commanding Officer, Capt. Chris Dennis, hosted nearly 75 local civic and elected leaders during a first-of-its kind "Reverse COMREL." The day included a welcome reception and base briefing at the Duomo Conference Center, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force statics displays, a K-9 Military Working Dog demonstration, a tour of Sigonella's U.S. Air Force Remotely Piloted Aircraft Predator squadron, and finished with an American-style outdoor barbecue lunch at the Ristorante Bella Etna gazebo. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tony D. Curtis/Released) said. “The Sigonella community showed to be grateful and appreciative of the partnership with my school. We believe that these NAS Sigonella COMRELs are a great way to create civic consciousness and pursue the common good." To volunteer or learn more about the NAS Sigonella Community Relations program, contact Dr. Lunetta at 624-5229 (095-86-5229) or e-mail him at: Alberto.Lunetta.IT@ eu.navy.mil.
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Direct Line
"ICE" continued from Page 2 be a positive one. If you have questions or additional feedback about the Midtown 2 Theaters please contact Theater Manager, Darryl Chandler, at 624-4216 or by e-mail at: darryl.chandler@ eu.navy.mil.
Commanding Officer Capt. Chris Dennis Ciao Sigonella, B. H. Liddel-Hart, the great British philosopher once said, "The reason for war is to achieve a better peace..." If so, the reason for the United States Marine Corps is to win wars and sustain peace, better. November 10, 1775, the Marine Corps was born of necessity, undersized, over-tasked but deeply trusted. Two battalions were formed to guard against mutiny and to secure our fledgling nation's naval vessels during offensive and defensive boarding operations. From conception, our Marines have been defined by two critical characteristics: their size which led to an innovative culture and their role as protectors and guardians which led to their Semper Fidelis spirit. Due to their small size, lacking abundance always, the US Marine Corps has always compensated through innovation. Likewise, Marines' Semper Fidelis spirit is understood by the special trust and confidence bestowed on them as protectors and guardians by our nation and our nation's leaders and the Marines resulting unrelenting will to fight and win. With innovation and Semper Fidelis spirit, our Marines have time and again achieved greatness, many times surpassing what might be empirically possible. From their first amphibious raid of a British Ammo Depot in New Providence, Bahamas to their seizure of Guantanamo Bay in the Spanish-American War to Belleau Woods to the Island Hopping Campaigns of WWII, US Marines have innovated and willed their way to defeating determined and even larger foes and achieving peace for the United States and our allies. In Vietnam, US Marines proved again innovation and Semper Fi spirit were critical through the advent of the Combined Action Program which was
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executed by Combined Action Platoons. Conceived by the XO of 3rd Battalion, 4th Marines, CAP was used to cover an ever expanding area of responsibility - one that far surpassed the Battalion's end strength. Ever trustworthy, Marines partnered with Vietnamese too young, too old or too unable to be in the Army of Vietnam but knowledgeable and passionate about their country. Throwing conventional wisdom aside, Marines split their forces, exposed themselves to added risks and partnered person-to-person with these Vietnamese, ultimately securing hamlets and villages all over what was then South Vietnam. This same CAP methodology which was very successful for our Marines in Vietnam, has been used successfully in ensuing conflicts up to modern day. Today in Sigonella, our Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force (SPMAGTF) Det A carries forward the Marine Corps legacy of innovation and Semper Fidelis spirit. SPMAGTF Det A Marines are employing a descendant version of CAP by partnering on the African Continent in small units, person-to-person with Africans to achieve real security for towns and nations across the continent. These missions in Africa, like similar missions before, only succeed where there is trust and fortitude. Locally, our Marines are a huge part of the NASSIG Community Relations program. Trusted and tenacious, Marines carry their Semper Fidelis spirit, and like Sigonella's Sailors, Soldiers, Airmen and civilians, go into communities, partner with our Italian neighbors to do great things
Comment 1 regarding “BZ for Post Office”: I accidentally
routed a package to Bahrain recently and throughout the tracking process, every single person at the post office went above and beyond to help locate the package and keep me informed. I very much appreciate their patience and help! Sincerely, Grace Barnett Comment 2 regarding “BZ for Post Office”: The NAS 2 Post Office staff went above and beyond in helping to track down a late-arriving package for my daughter’s birthday. I wanted to thank them but I didn’t catch any of their names. Even though the package hadn’t yet arrived, their positive attitude helped to not let this ruin her day. Thank you! Gratefully, John Watkins Response to both comments: Grace and John, thank you both for taking the time to point out our Postal team Sailors’ and Marines’ “above-and-beyond” approach to those they serve as collectively we all strive to implement CO Customer Service!
Comment regarding “BZ for DECA Vegetarian Offerings”:
for Sicily, for Italy, for the NATO alliance and for United States' security. It has been said every Marine is a rifleman. But every Marine is a Marine too. Because a rifleman without innovation and the Semper Fi spirit is just a soldier and a United States without a United States Marine Corps is a nation in search of, but never finding a better peace. Happy 240th Birthday Marines! Honor, Courage, Commitment, C. J. Dennis CO, NASSIG
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 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. * If you submit a "BZ" about a specific person or department, PLEASE PROVIDE YOUR NAME in order to ensure comment authenticity and therefore publically 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 Sigonella Community, Your comments and feedback are important to me and all service providers across our Sigonella community. Your thoughts serve as important indicators of what we are doing well and where we need more attention. Each comment is fully assessed and the vast majority answered directly to the initiator or the general public. Please recognize though, some ICE comments for a variety of reasons (e.g., inflammatory, OPSEC, etc.) may not be published. While absolutely not required, to ensure a personal response, submitters are encouraged to include their contact information with ICE comments.
Comment regarding “Naples BZ for NASSIG Security”: This past weekend my family headed from Naples to NAS Sigonella for our children’s swim meet. Arriving to Sigonella in the evening, it began to rain and we were eager to get on-base lodging and some sleep before the morning competition. Unfortunately, our vehicle registration packet was misplaced and we were unable produce the documents needed for a temporary base pass. What happened next was a textbook example of fantastic base-to-base teamwork as Sigonella Security called NSA Naples Security and in just five minutes was able to verify our vehicle, plate number, and registration before issuing a weekend vehicle pass. We really appreciate the tremendous display of customer service. Had it not been for the extra effort we would have had to park off base and drag ourselves (and bags) from our car, through the rain, all the way to the lodge. Thanks to NAS Sigonella Security for taking the time to help us out! Sincerely, Joseph Vinch
Response: Joesph, it’s always wonderful to hear from our satisfied customers! Regardless of rank, affiliation, Sigonella community member or visitor just passing through, we strive to approach each and every patron the same way we would a VIP. At Sigonella we call it “CO Customer Service” and we try to make it our standard. Thanks again for taking the time to write. We’ve passed along your encouraging feedback to our Security team.
Comment regarding “Movie Theater Unprofessionalism”: During recent trips to the movie theater I’ve noticed a significant lack of professionalism among theater employees to include poor customer service and an employee watching the movie during the showing. Additionally, the staff was downright rude while purchasing my ticket and buying concessions. I am hoping someone addresses these issues with theater employees. Response: Thank you for your feedback. I am very sorry to hear about the inappropriate employee behavior you experienced at Midtown 2 Theaters. I’ve spoken to MWR leadership who agree “CO Customer Service” is expected everywhere for all patrons. To reaffirm this commitment, MWR management has addressed these concerns with theater staff has sent their employees to a week-long course to become certified as Star Customer Service instructors. I hope you’ll soon allow the base theater the opportunity to provide the entertainment experience you pay for and rightfully deserve. Should you do so, I’m confident that experience will "ICE" continued on Page 3
I want to give a shout out to the Commissary for carrying “Heart Healthy” and vegetarian options such as meatless veggie crumbles, veggie cheese, Flax seed milk and Tofurky deli “meats.” As a vegetarian, I appreciate the meatless options. Response: Thank you for taking the time to recognize the effort our Commissary puts toward providing a diverse and inclusive food selection for all our community’s dietary needs. If you have other food items requests you’d like to see on Commissary shelves, please contact store manager, Al Brooks, at 624-3777/4545 or e-mail him at: Arvester.Brooks@deca.mil.
Comment regarding “NASSIG Hiring Process Concerns”:
Thank you, Captain, for taking the time to review our comments. I am concerned about local national hiring practices at this installation as it seems positions are not filled based on qualifications and experience. I wonder if anything can be done to bring some sanctity to the job-selection process? Response: Thank you for providing you comment about the local national (LN) hiring process. I’ve shared your concerns regarding hiring abuses, which is why in June we published NASSIGINST 12330.3D, an updated instruction that adds rigor and transparency to uphold the highest standards for EVERY hiring – LN and U.S. – for NASSIG’s 62995 and 46131 UICs. To accomplish this, the Human Resources Office (HRO) only refers qualified individuals for consideration based on the information provided in their application. Once all qualified applicants have been identified, either a selection board or a selection advisory panel is established to create a structured, objective, and fair process for filling all competitive LN and US positions. Thus far, I’ve been very satisfied with these new hiring methods. However, if you know of a specific case whereby a questionable selection occurred or would simply like more information regarding the NAS Sigonella hiring process, I urge you to contact Human Resources Director, Terry Williams, at 624-4181 or by e-mail at: Terrence.Williams@eu.navy.mil.
Comment regarding “Smoking outside of NEX/DECA”: What
can be done to ensure NEX/DECA employees smoke only in the designated areas? Additionally, there appear to be unauthorized patrons using the NEX and Commissary. There is a policy and it is not being enforced! Where is Security? Response: Thank you for your comment. The good news is that Public Works, the Commissary and NEX met recently to propose best locations for a smoking area in front of the NEX and Commissary. More to follow soon on that. To address your question regarding Security: the majority of their time is spent providing anti-terrorism/force protection. This is one reason I’ve made both Security and Health & Welfare main
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components of Sig’ Citizenship as it empowers all community members to appropriately respond to situations such as the one you’ve described. To be clear, if someone is seen smoking in a smoke-free area you’re strongly encouraged to kindly remind them of the base order and tactfully ask that they move outside the restricted area. If the smoker(s)is unwilling to comply seek out store management so they can address the situation. Store management should also be discreetly sought out in instances where unauthorized shopping is suspected.
U.S. NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA Commanding Officer Capt. Chris Dennis Executive Officer Cmdr. Charles G. McKinney II Command Master Chief CMDCM Mike Kaszubowski
Comment regarding “USO in Sigonella”: I recently learned
EDITORIAL
that NASSIG is one of the few bases without a USO. I am disappointed as I feel the USO is a great resource for military families and single Sailors. It’s our “home away from home.” Sincerely, Alyssa Whisman Response: Thank you for the comment, Ms. Whisman. I couldn’t agree more am very happy to share that we expect to unveil a USO here in the spring! I am confident our Sig’ Citizens will step up and meet the volunteer efforts needed to staff and operate this facility so our new USO can provide those great services you’ve mentioned.
Comment regarding “Request for NAS 1 Gym”: I love the
staff and facilities at the NAS 1 gym. However, it would be great if there was an additional squat rack to meet the demand. Also, could you please add a TV with DVD player to play workout DVDs in the cardio room? Thanks for providing great facilities!
Response: Thank you for your comments regarding the NAS
1 Fit District. I agree – it is awesome! Last week I mentioned an additional squat rack is coming to the NAS 1 Fit District. Unfortunately, the present, NAS 2 Fitness Center space configurations are not as accommodating. However, with the expected population influx to NAS 2 we are comprehensively reevaluating NAS 2 spaces and services in order to best meet growing demand. An additional squat rack will certainly be part of our conversation. Regarding the television request, copyright workout videos (intended for personal home use) may not be played in public settings without compensation or explicit permission. Neither of these are realistic so unfortunately customer accessible DVD players simply cannot be furnished at any fitness center. Patrons are encouraged to safely use their own personal devices (i.e. tablet, smart phones, etc.) as desired to support their OWN personal fitness needs. If you have specific recommendations regarding how to better present our cardio and weights or any other fitness center-related questions, please contact our Fitness Coordinator, Beth Sweely, at 624-4951.
Comment regarding “Confusing Vehicle Inspection Form”: During a recent trip to the Autoport, a customer advised
the manager that the vehicle inspection paperwork he was using was out of date. The customer then requested a blank copy of the paperwork, but the manager declined. Can you please clarify why the paperwork can’t be given to customers? I’m dreading the vehicle inspection process now. Response: Great catch! Thanks for passing this along and my apologies to all for the confusion. We’re currently streamlining the vehicle inspection process so only one form is used, which should be ready any day and inserted into a new instruction to replace the current conflicting forms found in NASSIGINST 5114.G and NASSIGINST 5114. Comment Regarding “Food Court Exit Door”: Can something be done about the “exit only” door closest to the restrooms in the Food Court on NAS 1? It is a nuisance for two reasons: 1) The heater/air conditioner continuously runs as the door does not close completely unless pulled closed by hand and 2) the “breaking” sound of the latch being pulled when opened from the outside. Thank you. Response: Thank you for your observation and suggestion to fix this issue. Public Works recently performed maintenance to not only repair the latch and ventilation, but additionally reconfigured the door to make it both an exit and entryway.
Public Affairs Officer Lt. Paul Newell paul.newell@eu.navy.mil Editor Nicole Ybarra nicole.ybarra@eu.navy.mil Community Relations Officer Dott. Alberto Lunetta alberto.lunetta.it@eu.navy.mil PAO Staff Writers \ Photographers MC1 Tony D. Curtis anthony.curtis@eu.navy.mil MC2 Ramon Go ramon.go@eu.navy.mil CONTACT US Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily thesig@eu.navy.mil DSN 624-5440; 095-86-5440 PSC 812 Box 7, FPO, AE 09627-0001 PUBLISHER Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity Capodichino (Naples), Italy stampagenerale@tin.it Tel. 081-568-7884 Fax 081-568-7887 This civilian enterprise (CE) newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services overseas. Contents of The Signature are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense (DoD), or the U.S. Navy. The appearance of advertising in this newspaper, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the DoD or Stampa Generale S.r.l., of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factorof the purchaser, user or patron. A confirmed violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected. The Signature is published weekly by Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity, Capodichino (Naples), Italy. Tel. 081-568-7884. Fax 081-568-7887. E-mail: stampagenerale@tin.it. Editorial submissions are welcomed from all Naval Air Station Sigonella departments, divisions and tenant commands. Editorial submissions should be sent to the Public Affairs Office via thesig@eu.navy.mil, guard mail stop #68 or hand-delivered to our office no later than the close of business on the Friday proceeding the expected publication date. All articles submitted by non-staff members will be considered contributing writers. The Signature will not publish anyanonymous articles. All advertisements in this publication are the property of Stampa Generale S.r.l. Any reproduction of advertisements in The Signature is unauthorized without the written consent of the publisher. cnic.navy.mil/sigonella
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Sigonella's DECA Commissary upgrade saves energy and costs By Nicole Ybarra NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
lighting, automated coolant regulators in the refrigeration system, more efficient chillers and the new refrigerator doors which were installed at the end of October. While not only important for the environment, freeing up economic resources allows more money for labor, training and other activities. While the concept was born from a simple observation, the execution involved collaboration across DECA, Public Works and NAS Sigonella Commanding Officer, Capt. Christopher Dennis. Antonino Piluso, Installation Energy Manager stated, “The most significant energy savings come from the sum of small, daily actions. The
new doors are a simple, yet powerful, tool for the Commissary to reduce its energy usage.” As the region’s Energy Biggest Loser, NAS Sigonella achieved an 11.6% reduction in its energy consumption in July and resource conservation remains a top priority. In addition to efforts at the Commissary, street lights on NAS 1 and NAS 2 were upgraded to LED lighting which use less than half the energy of traditional exterior lighting and lasts longer, reducing labor time required for replacement. And looking ahead, 30 boilers on NAS 2 will be modernized to a natural gas system which is a cleaner – and cheaper – energy source than the current diesel-run boiler system.
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Simple changes can yield significant results. If you shop at the DECA Commissary, you may have noticed a simple, yet impactful, upgrade to the store’s refrigerated section: transparent doors that allow customers to easily identify their products. The new doors keep items cool and are expected to use approximately 30-45% less energy compared to the previous open refrigeration system. The upgrade required no modifications to the existing cooling system and the doors dramatically reduce the energy wasted, particularly in winter when the refrigerators to keep food cool compete with the indoor heating system designed to keep the store warm. Due to the significant energy demand of the refrigerators, the building size and type, the Commissary accounts for nearly 20% of total energy consumption on NAS 1 which underscores the importance of energy saving measures such as the new cabinet doors. Other measures such as the replacement of outdated chillers and interior lights improvements have led to a 30-45% reduction in energy consumption for the Commissary. To put this figure in dollars and cents, a 30-45% reduction in energy translates into a savings of approximately 100 MWH (mega watt hours) PER MONTH. If each MWH equals a savings of $190, each month the Commissary is saving approximately $20,000 in its energy bill, in large The infograph displays energy consumption in the month of October 2014 through Sept 2015. The new doors keep items cool and part thanks to energy efficiency are expected to use approximately 30-45% less energy compared to the previous open refrigeration system. (Infograph provided initiatives such as internal LED by DECA Commissary)
Need an appointment at the hospital? Call DSN 624-CARE (2273) or commercial: 095-56-2273, M - F: 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. For non-emergent medical questions that arise over the Weekend, Holidays, or after office hours, please call the Nurse Advice Line at 800-877-660 (local/Italy only) Need a medication refill or results from your Provider? Create an account with Relay Health using your PCM... www.relayhealth.com (click: register, patient, then add PCM)
Lt. Sarah Anderson speaks to DODDS Elementary School students as part of the Red Ribbon Week Campaign last Oct. 30, 2015. Red Ribbon Week represents a symbol of commitment to raise awareness of the killing and destruction caused by drugs in America. (U.S. Navy photo by Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Charisma Forrest/Released)
Sigonella’s DoDD School Hosts Red Ribbon Week By HM3 Johanna Ruggs U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - Red Ribbon week is a campaign sponsored by the National Family Partnership spanning from 23 to 31 October. Many would wonder about the important background as to why schools promote this week to their students. Red Ribbon Week began as a response to the kidnapping and murder of Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Agent Enrique ("Kiki") Camarena in 1985. His efforts as a DEA agent in Mexico led to a tip that resulted in the discovery and eradication of a drug production operation. As a result, drug cartels sought revenge by murdering key informants and ultimately killing Kiki Camarena. Ms. Judith Shannon, Sigonella Elementary School’s counselor, emphasizes, “Today the Red Ribbon Week brings millions of people together to raise awareness and pledge to ‘stamp out’ illegal drugs, tobacco and alcohol.” This year’s theme for Red Ribbon Week was “Respect Yourself- Be Drug Free”. U. S. Naval Hospital’s Health Promotion Coordinator, Lieutenant Sarah Anderson, gave age-specific presentations to each grade level spanning from kindergarten to fifth grade to a total of 330 students at the DoDD’s Elementary School. Anderson noted as to why this is important to Sigonella’s youth, “Children like to emulate what they see. I use the analogy that they are like sponges and soak everything up. If we can get them to understand the negative consequences from using drugs or alcohol, hopefully they will never try them.” The idea that it is far more difficult to stop an addiction once a person has started was emphasized. “No one should feel pressured into doing something they know is wrong, regardless if their friends or peers are doing it --the goal is to keep them engaged and moving, so they retain the message we are trying to spread”, she concludes. Resisting negative peer pressure and staying above the influence, is an important goal for our youth. “Parents have always been very supportive, and I get positive feedback to thank us for providing the information to the kids”, Shannon added. “Often, parents jokingly complain at first because some of the kids will go home and tell a parent they have to stop smoking right away!” The overall focus of the Red Ribbon week is to promote positive and healthy decisions while also educating students on differences of what is right and what is wrong. It takes a community to take care of our youth and the responsibility is on all of our hands.
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U.S. NAVY HEADLINES November 13, 2015
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Navy Installations Command hostsWarrior Care Month event Ten things not to miss in Mantua, the 2016 Italian capital of culture In late October, the northern Italian city of Mantova was picked as the 2016 Italian Capital of Culture. If you are not familiar with this elegant city located in the wealthy Lombardy region, it is time to plan a trip. Mantova was inscribed by UNESCO into its World Heritage List in 2008 because of the extraordinary architectural and artistic heritage left by the Gonzaga dynasty, the rulers of Mantova for four centuries. The historic center is quite compact and can easily be explored on foot. Here are ten things you should not miss when you visit Mantova (and don’t forget to splurge on tortelli di zucca – pumpkin tortelli – and the classic sbrisolona cake). If you enter Mantova - Mantua from the northeast, across the bridge over the misty waters that surround it on three sides, the city seems to float like a golden mirage. With its high brick walls, cupolas, towers, miradors, loggias and red-tiled roofs, it is more like a Renaissance architectural fantasy than a living city of the 21st century. Almost an island, and still protected in part by high walls, it may be hot and humid in summer, cold and foggy in winter, but that moodiness makes it one of the most romantic cities in northern Italy. As you walk along Mantua’s narrow cobbled streets and arcades, under arches and into dead-ends, you will discover grand palaces and churches, hidden squares, internal courtyards, statues in niches; and other small architectural details. No wonder it was once described by the courtier, Castiglioni, as ‘a city in the form of a palace’! 1. The view from San Giorgio Bridge There is no better way to get acquainted with Mantova than by admiring the city’s profile reflecting into the lakes that surround it. Consider booking a boat trip on the lakes, where cormorants, herons and lotus flowers are common sights. 2. Palazzo Ducale - Ducal Palace The royal residence of the powerful Gonzaga family is one of Europe’s largest monumental buildings, measuring about 34,000 square meters, with some 500 rooms. Its construction began in the 13th century by the Captain of the People Guido Buonacolsi, whose family ruled the city before the Gonzaga. Additional buildings, connected by corridors and galleries and enriched by inner courts and gardens, were added through the centuries, resulting in a mix of architectural styles. The Gonzaga lived here from 1328 to 1707. While the interiors are mostly bare (after decades of battles and excesses, the Gonzaga were forced to sell their magnificent art and jewelry collections for which they were famous all over Europe), they preserve their grandeur and many of the beautiful frescoes. Which brings us to: 3. La Camera degli Sposi - Bridal Chamber The masterpiece by painter Andrea Mantegna (1431-1506) is located inside one of the fortified towers of the San Giorgio Castle, attached to the palace. La Camera degli Sposi is a room frescoed with paintings depicting the family and court of Ludovico Gonzaga, who commissioned the work and was the ruler of Mantua from 1444 to 1478, while other frescoes are said to refer to the election of Ludovico's son Franc-
Last week, Mantua has been chosen as Italian culture capital in 2016 by Italy’s culture ministry's jury. The Lombard city was the erstwhile princely seat of the House of Gonzaga from the 14th to the 18th centuries, and its historic center was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007. The northern city was shortlisted along with nine other candidates by the culture ministry in June. The other contenders were Aquileia, Como, Ercolano, Parma, Pisa, Pistoia, Spoleto, Taranto and Terni. The selection comes with one million Euros from the culture ministry. (PHOTO by http://www.naviandes.com/) esco Gonzaga as Cardinal. They are all meant to celebrate the Gonzaga dynasty. The room is especially famous for the use of trompe l'oeil details and its di sotto in sù ceiling, evident in the “oculus”, a fake opening toward the sky showing cherubs (“putti”) peering down into the room. The Bridal Chamber was closed for almost three years following the earthquake that hit the neighboring region of Emilia-Romagna in 2012, and was reopened in April (advanced reservations recommended). 4. The "piazze" of the historic center Mantua boasts many beautiful squares: Piazza Sordello, Piazza Broletto, Piazza Erbe, Piazza Mantegna. Stroll slowly through them and admire the splendid palaces that surround them, such as the medieval Podestà Palace, or the Palazzo della Ragione, with its 1473 astronomical clock by Bartolomeo Manfredi. 5. Teatro Scientifico del Bibiena A few hundred meters from Piazza Sordello is the Teatro Bibiena, decorated with a facade by Giuseppe Piermarini, the same architect who designed Milan’s La Scala. The theater was designed and built by the Parma-born architect Antonio Galli Bibiena in just two years. A month after its inauguration, on January 16, 1770, it hosted the exhibition of enfant prodige Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, who, at the age of fourteen, performed in a memorable concert with his father Leopold. The theater is considered a masterpiece of Baroque architecture and
is worth a visit by itself, not just to see a show. In fact, it is part of Mantova’s network of museums. 6. Basilica of Sant'Andrea On Piazza Mantegna, the Basilica of Sant’Andrea is important from a religious standpoint because it houses the relic called Preziosissimo Sangue di Cristo ("Most Precious Blood of Christ"), preserved in the Sacred Vessels. According to tradition, it was brought to Mantua by the Roman centurion Longinus, who collected it from the ribs of the crucified Christ. The Sacred Vessels are displayed during a solemn ceremony and procession on Good Friday. The basilica’s façade is a masterpiece by Leon Battista Alberti (14041472). Inside is the tomb of Andrea Mantegna. 7. Lungo Rio: Le Pescherie For the romantically inclined, this little-known corner of the city should not be missed. The center of
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By Ed Wright Navy Installations Command Public Affairs
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Every day, wounded warriors demonstrate strength in their daily activities, from pushing themselves during grueling physical therapy, to asking for help when they need emotional support. To kick-off Wounded Warrior Care Month, Navy Installations Command, located at the Washington Navy Yard, hosted a ceremony to recognize the importance of the program and to honor several wounded warriors. Each warrior has made significant progress over the years in their recovery as a result of the Wounded Warrior Program, from find-
ing employment, to participating in art therapy, to competing in elite adaptive sports events. This year's Warrior Care Month theme, "A Show of Strength," recognizes the fortitude that seriously wounded, ill and injured Sailors and Marines, and their families, exhibit during their journey toward recovery. "Families and caregivers also show incredible strength each and every day, at all hours of the day and night," said Capt. Brent Breining, director of the Navy Wounded Warrior (NWW) and Safe Harbor Programs. "They provide attentive and loving support to wounded warriors, often at great personal expense. I can think of no one who deserves our
support more than our wounded warriors and their families. Our commitment to them must never waver." The Navy Wounded Warrior program is a department within the Fleet and Family Readiness department under Commander, Navy Installations Command, and has assisted nearly 3,800 service members and their families since its inception in 2008, when, then-Secretary of Defense Robert Gates designated November as Warrior Care Month. The goal was to inform military members and their families, and communities across the country, about the programs and initiatives provided through the Warrior Care system. Retired Navy Lt. Chet Frith, one of the guest speakers at the event, said he has benefited from NWW, both as a wounded warrior and as an employee. "Realizing I could still be a productive member of society gave me a sense of purpose again," he
said. "It's what I needed." Support is not limited to combat injuries. The program also assists those battling serious illnesses or injured in accidents. The Navy defines a "wounded warrior" as a Sailor or Coast Guardsman who has a serious illness or injury requiring long-term care, that may result in a Medical Evaluation Board/Physical Evaluation Board to determine fitness for duty. Throughout the month of November in Washington, D.C., and throughout the Department of Defense, the Office of Warrior Care and all services' wounded warrior programs will highlight a variety of wounded warrior programs and activities, including stories of recovery, and personal triumphs. For more information about Warrior Care Month activities or wounded warrior resources visit http://safeharbor. navylive.dodlive.mil For more information about Navy shore installations visit http://www.cnic. navy.mil For more news from Commander, Navy Installations Command, visit http://www.navy.mil/local/cni/.
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From a Greek battlefield, modern marathon is born By Nicole Ybarra NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
You may have seen those bumper stickers with a simple 26.2 and wondered about the meaning behind it. Like a secret code amongst runners, 26.2 is a badge proudly displayed – often with annoying frequency for non-running friends and family – marking the successful completion of a marathon race. But why 26.2 miles? The name marathon can be traced back to the legend of Pheidippides, a Greek messenger. The legend states that he was sent from the battlefield of Marathon to Athens to announce the victory of the Greeks against the Persians during the Marathon Battle in 490 BC. It is said that he ran the entire distance without stopping and burst into the assembly, exclaiming νενικήκαμεν (We have wοn) before collapsing and dying. There are two roads out of the battlefield of Marathon towards Athens, one more mountainous towards the north whose distance is about 34.5 km (21.4 mi), and another flatter but longer towards the south with a distance of 40.8 km (25.4 mi). It has been argued that the ancient runner took the more difficult northern road because at the time of the battle there were still Persian soldiers in the south of the plain. The 26.2 mile marathon race became one of the most competitive events during the revival of the Olympic Games in 1896. A Greek athlete named Spyros Louis, running what has ever since been referred to as the Original Marathon Course from the ancient city of Marathon to the Panathinaikon Stadium in Athens, won the gold medal of the first modern Olympic Games and became a legend of Greek and International Athletics. Today, thousands of runners from around the world travel to Athens to run the Original Marathon Course. On Nov. 8, runners from NAS Sigonella were among the approximately 43,000 runners in total who competed in the Athens Authentic Marathon, beginning in Marathon, Greece and concluding in the 1896 Olympic Stadium in the heart of Athens. The grueling course included a 15-mile stretch of straight incline but upon reaching the top, runners were rewarded with breathtaking views of the Athens skyline, cheered on by crowds of warm and enthusiastic spectators. While significant from an historic standpoint, the event also provides an important economic boost for the struggling Greek economy. According to the Athens-Attica & Argosaronic Hotel Association, each marathon runner from abroad is expected to spend 1,000 euros, on average, on accommodation, food, participation in the race, tickets to museums, souvenirs, etc. Overall, with record participation, it is estimated that the Athens Marathon, contributed some 15 million euros to the national economy. If you’ve ever set your sights on completing a marathon, the Authentic Athens Marathon is truly unique.
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Sigonella Religious Ministries Department Worship Services Phone Numbers: NAS I 095-56-3975, NAS II 095-86-9049, Chaplain Duty: 335-831-4493, RP Duty: 335-786-1950. Facebook page: www.facebook.com/Naval Air Station Sigonella Chapel ROMAN CATHOLIC • Sunday - 9 a.m. Catholic Mass at NAS 1 Chapel • Tuesday - Friday - 11:30 a.m. at NAS 1 or NAS 2 Chapel
PROTESTANT WOMEN OF THE CHAPEL • Tuesdays - 9 a.m. at NAS 1 Fellowship Hall; Thursdays 5 p.m. @ NAS 1 Fellowship Hall
PROTESTANT WORSHIP SERVICE • Saturday - 6:30 p.m. Contemporary Worship Services • Sunday - 11 a.m. Traditional Worship at NAS 1 Chapel; 6 p.m. Non-Denominational Sunday at NAS 2 Chapel • Wednesday - 7 p.m. Bible Study at NAS 2
LATTER-DAY SAINTS • Sunday - 1:30 p.m. at NAS 1 Chapel Contact: sigonellalds@gmail.com or 6249049
PROTESTANT MEN OF THE CHAPEL • Wednesdays 6 a.m. @ NAS 1 Fellowship Hall
CLUB BEYOND • Middle School Club & Small Group Tuesday - 2:45 - 4:45 p.m. at NAS 1 Chapel • High School Club and Small Group Wednesdays - 6 - 8 p.m. at Marinai Home
Catholic Religious Education Classes • September - June - 10:30 a.m. at DoDDS Knights of Columbus • First Wednesday of the month - 5 p.m. at NAS 2 Chapel NIGHT STUDY • AA Meetings - Monday - 5:30 p.m., 2nd Floor at NAS 1 Chapel; Thursday - 7 p.m. at NAS 2 Chapel • AA Family Group - Tuesday - 7 p.m. at NAS 2 Chapel • Tuesday - Italian Class - 7 p.m. at NAS 1 Chapel Classroom • Tuesday - Awana Club - 4:45 p.m at NAS 1 Chapel
Weekly Traffic Reports: Nov. 2 - 9, 2015
Ristorante Bella Etna Friday, Nov. 13 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Grilled Sausage Patties, Chicken Tocino with Garlic Rice Lunch: Chicken Adobo, Sweet & Sour Pork Speed Line: Freshly Made Pizza Dinner: Spaghetti with Meat Sauce, Baked Chicken Nuggets Saturday, Nov. 14 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven fried Bacon, Corned Beef Hash Brunch: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Corned Beef Hash, Roast Beef Dinner: Pasta Al Forno, Oven Fried Chicken Fillet Sandwich Sunday, Nov. 15 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Grilled Minute Steak, Oven Fried Bacon
Breakfast: $3.45 Mon - Fri: 6:30 - 8:30 a.m. Weekend / Holiday: 7-9 a.m.
Brunch: Eggs to Order, Grilled Minute Steak, Oven Fried Bacon, Baked Chicken Dinner: Chicken Parmesan, Spaghetti w/ Shrimp Alfredo Sauce Monday, Nov. 16 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Corned Beef Hash, Creamed Sausage Gravy w/ Biscuits Lunch: Roast Turkey, Beef & Broccoli Speed Line: Chef Salvo’s Freshly Made Pizza Dinner: Meat Loaf, Fiesta Chicken, Mexican Rice Tuesday, Nov. 17 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Chicken Tocino w/ Garlic Rice, Grilled Sausage Patties
Lunch: $5.55 Mon - Fri: 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Weekend / Holiday: 11 a.m. -1 p.m.
Lunch: BBQ Ribs, Fried Chicken, Collard Greens, Mashed Potatoes, Carrots Speed Line: Philly Cheese Steak, Onion Rings Dinner: Lemon Baked Fish, Chicken Fried Steak w/ Mushroom Gravy Wednesday, Nov. 18 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Creamed Ground Beef w/ Toast Lunch: Breaded Pork Steak, Baked Fish w/ Cherry Tomato Speed Line: All American Grilled Burgers Dinner: Salisbury Steak w/ Mushroom Gravy, Cajun Chicken Sandwich w/ French Fries
Dinner: $4.85 Mon - Fri: 4:30 - 6 p.m. Weekend / Holiday: 4:30 -6 p.m.
Thursday, Nov. 19 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Grilled Minute Steak Lunch: Roast Beef, Turkey Pot Pie, Speed Line: Pasta Bar w/ Freshly Made Sauce Dinner: Chicken Alfredo w/ Penne Pasta, Grilled Pork Chops Friday, Nov. 20 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Grilled Sausage Patties, Chicken Tocino on Garlic Fried Rice Lunch: Lasagna, Baked Fish (Salmon) Speed Line: Freshly Made Pizza Dinner: Baked Italian Sausage w/ Grilled Onions & Peppers, Savory Baked Chicken
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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Buon appetito: Understanding Italian food culture From Fleet and Family Support Center
The Italian food culture concerns not only what we see on Italian tables or on a rich Italian restaurant menu. It is something much deeper, engrained in the Italian DNA. Some Italian beliefs go beyond education or tradition. Pasta An easy example could be the pasta shapes and seasonings. Considering that among dry pasta, the shape is the only difference among the variations, the shape itself is something very important for Italians. There's a traditional pasta sauce recipe from the Roma region called pasta all'amatriciana (a tasty sauce made with tomatoes and bacon). Usually it's served using the bucatini pasta (large spaghetti with a hole in its middle). An Italian woman was disgusted hearing her hairdresser telling her colleague that she preferred it with short pasta. She said: "Don't ask me why. That’s just how it is. Amatriciana must go with long pasta. How can one imagine cooking it with short pasta?" The same goes for pasta with oil and garlic (aglio e olio); you probably will never see it served with anything other than spaghetti. Cappuccino A lot of people around the world drink coffee and milk. In Italy, people drink cappuccino - coffee topped with a layer of foamed milk. Even though some cultures may drink milk and coffee anytime of the day, Italians will never ask for a cappuccino in the evening! Why? That’s just how it is. Cappuccino is for breakfast! Even worse: someone who asks for a cappuccino with dinner. Italians really turn up their nose when they see someone ordering with dinner. Drinking In Italy there are bars everywhere. Even in small cities with 1,500 inhabitants you can expect to find 20 bars. This is because drinking in Italy is associated with greetings. When an Italian meets a friend, it's natural to "drink something together.” If you happen to serve a drink to someone seated beside you, never turn the jar or the bottle against the natural orientation of your hand. For example, if you have the jar in your right hand, the glass must be on the left side, never behind, on the right side of your right hand. Otherwise it may bring bad luck. Meals In many countries it's common to eat a salad as an appetizer. Not in Italy. Italians eat salad as a side to the second course. In some larger cities with touristy restaurants you can find salad as an appetizer… but Italians never ask for them! Italians respect lunch time. If you visit Italy and want to have lunch, pay attention to restaurants' closing times. The kitchen typically closes after 2:30 p.m. and you will have to eat a sandwich. If an Italian is traveling outside Italy, he will probably look for a restaurant during lunch time. If he doesn't or cannot find one, and finds one at 3:00pm, he'll probably say that he is not hungry anymore.
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GAME ZONE Photography
Find and circle all of the Photography terms that are hidden in the grid. The remaining letters spell the name of a type of camera. APERTURE BALANCE BELLOWS BLOWUP CAMERA CLOSE UP COLOR CONTRAST CROPPING DARKROOM DEVELOPER ENLARGEMENT ENLARGER FILTER FIXING BATH
FLASH FOCAL LENGTH FRAME HOT SHOE LIGHT METER LIGHTING NEGATIVE OVEREXPOSURE PANNING PANORAMA PARALLAX PHOTOFINISHER POSITIVE PRINT PROCESSING
RANGEFINDER RETOUCHING SAFELIGHT SATURATION SHUTTER SLIDE STOP BATH TELEPHOTO LENS TINT TONE TRIPOD UNDEREXPOSURE VIEWFINDER ZOOM LENS
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In addition to prefering Italian food, Italians hate when people try to mix other food cultures with Italian. An example? Never add ketchup to a pasta dish! You cannot imagine how your Italian friend will stare at you if you try to do so. It’s not a matter of being presumptuous, but they truly believe you are ruining your food. Italian food culture is filled with a lot of “musts” that generations follow without knowing why it is done this way. For more information on Italian food culture, visit All About Italian Food or contact your local Fleet and Family Support Center at 624-4291 for further information and referrals.
EASY
Italians prefer Italian food. While most tourists consider sampling local cuisine as part of the vacation, it's very common to see Italians looking for Italian restaurants while abroad. They seem to be afraid of new and different food. However, as they venture abroad more often, Italians are more open to trying new foods, and learn to appreciate foreign cuisine.
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November 13, 2015
Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus Names Virginia-Class Submarine From Secretary of the Navy Public Affairs
Foxborough, Mass. (NNS) -- Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus announced that SSN 798, a Virginia-class attack submarine, will bear the name USS Massachusetts during a taped video message at Gillette Stadium. The submarine will be named to honor the history its namesake state has with the Navy. This history extends to 1775, before the official founding of the United States, to the time when George Washington founded the Continental Navy in an effort to protect the 13 colonies from British attack. By 1800, six years after the establishment of the Department of the Navy, one of its first 14 ship yards was incorporated in Boston. And in 1836, The Boston Naval Hospital, one of the first of three hospitals dedicated solely to the care of naval personnel, opened. The future USS Massachusetts will be the fifth Navy vessel to serve under that name; the first, a wooden steamer, was a privately owned ship built in Boston in 1845 and purchased by the War Department in 1847. It served as a troop transport for the Army before being transferred to the Department of the Navy in 1849. Before being decommissioned in 1852, it served by scouting potential sites for lighthouses on the West Coast. After being recommissioned in 1854, it transported guns and ammunition during the Puget Sound War. Five years later, it was transferred back to the Army to cruise the Puget Sound providing protection for the inhabitants of the region. In 1862, it was transferred back to the Navy and a year later was converted to a storeship serving in this capacity until its final decommission in 1867. The second Massachusetts, built in 1860, also in Boston, was bought and commissioned by the Navy in 1861. She was an iron screw steamer whose service spanned for the entire Civil War. A day after joining her squadron in Pensacola, Florida, Massachusetts took her first British ship, Perthshire. Over the course of the next month, Massachusetts overpowered seven more ships of Mexican and Confederate origins. Her record continued along these lines until the end of the year when she worked at intercepting Confederate freight shipments in Ship Island's passage until early 1862 when she was decommissioned in New York. She commissioned again in April of that year and served as a supply ship until December when she decommissioned again. In 1863, she recommissioned and continued defeating Confederate ships until the end of the war in 1865.
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The new Virginia-class attack submarine USS Massachusetts (SSN 798) was announced by SECNAV during a taped video mesage at Gillette Stadium. The future USS Massachusetts will be the fifth Navy vessel to serve under that name; the first, a wooden steamer, was a privately owned ship built in Boston in 1845 and purchased by the War Department in 1847. U.S. Navy photo courtesy of Huntington Ingalls Industries by Chris Oxley (Released)
The third ship to bear the name had a long history. A battleship commissioned in 1896, it spent the first two years of its service conducting training exercises off the Atlantic coast before being assigned to blockade duties in Cuba in 1898. There she bombarded a Spanish cruiser and multiple fortifications. A couple of months later, Massachusetts returned to her duties cruising the Atlantic Coast for about seven years before briefly becoming a training ship for the Naval Academy. Shortly thereafter she began a pattern of being decommissioned and recommissioned to serve as a training ship before moving to Yorktown, Virginia in 1918 to become a heavy gun target practice ship until the end of World War I. A year later, Massachusetts was decommissioned for a final time. The final Massachusetts was a battleship commissioned during the middle of World War II, in 1942. Within days of being launched, she had joined the conflict off the coast of North Africa and sunk two French ships. In addition, she played a vital role during the war for her defense against the Japanese, largely through her participation in fleet and air strikes. She was decommissioned in 1947, but received 11 Battle Stars for her actions and has been preserved in Fall River, Massachusetts as a memorial for those who served in World War II. Virginia-class attack submarines provide the Navy with the capabilities required to maintain the nation's undersea supremacy well into the 21st century. They
have enhanced stealth, sophisticated surveillance capabilities and special warfare enhancements that will enable them to meet the Navy's multi-mission requirements. These submarines have the capability to attack targets ashore with highly accurate Tomahawk cruise missiles and conduct covert, long-term surveillance of land areas, littoral waters or other sea-based forces. Other missions include anti-submarine and antiship warfare; mine delivery and minefield mapping. They are also designed for special forces delivery and support. Each Virginia-class submarine is 7,800-tons and 377 feet in length, has a beam of 34 feet, and can operate at more than 25 knots submerged. They are designed with a reactor plant that will not require refueling during the planned life of the ship, reducing lifecycle costs while increasing underway time. The submarine will be built under a unique teaming agreement between General Dynamics Electric Boat and Huntington Ingalls Industries' Newport News Shipbuilding division wherein both companies build certain portions of each submarine and then alternate deliveries. Massachusetts will be delivered by Huntington Ingalls Industries' Newport News Shipbuilding. For more information about the Virginia-class attack submarine, visit http://www.navy.mil/local/ virginiaclass
BAKU, Azberbaijan (NNS) -- Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV) Ray Mabus met with Azerbaijan's president, Ilham Aliyev, and Minister of Defense Col. Gen. Zakhir Hasanov during a partnership-building visit to the nation's capital Nov. 7. During official meetings held in Baku, Mabus and the Azeri leaders discussed the status of the relationship between the military forces of the United States and Azerbaijan.
"The United States and Azerbaijan have a long-standing partnership that we look forward to maintaining and continuing to strengthen," said Mabus. "This partnership has been both well established and mutually beneficial." Mabus, Aliyev and Hasanov also discussed
future interaction between their respective nations. "The United States government and our Navy and Marine Corps are committed to working with Azerbaijan's security ministries to further our mutual interests and help Azerbaijan contribute to regional security," said Mabus. "It
is my hope that the cooperative military engagements we have planned for the future will only strengthen our military connection." Mabus' stop in Azerbaijan is part of a multinational trip to U.S. Southern, Africa, Central and European command areas of responsibility to meet with Sailors, Marines, and military and government leaders. For more news from the Secretary of the Navy visit www.navy.mil/ SECNAV, www.navy.mil/local/secnav/ or www.facebook.com/SecretaryoftheNavy.
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"MANTUA" continued from Page 6 Mantua is cut by a canal connecting the Superior and Inferior lakes. Most of the canal has been covered, but the uncovered part is particularly evocative, especially by Via Pescherie. A farmers’ market is held in this area every Saturday morning, a perfect chance to try Mantova’s culinary delights. 8. Lovers of Valdaro Sometimes called “Lovers of Mantua”, the Valdaro Lovers are a pair of human skeletons dating back 6,000 years discovered by archaeologists at a Neolithic tomb in S.Giorgio near Mantova in 2007 (a few days before February 14), during excavations of a Roman villa. Found in a fetal position, the two skeletons appear to have died or were interred facing each other, with arms around each other, thus reminiscent of a lovers' embrace (a thousand-year old embrace at that). They have been nicknamed the Romeo and Juliet of the Stone Age. They are on permanent display behind a crystal case at the National Archeological Museum of Mantova, which also houses a vast collection of Neolithic, Etruscan, Celtic, Roman, Langobardic, Goth, Medieval, and Renaissance finds.
Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus Meets with President of Azerbaijan By Kristine M. Sturkie NEX Public Affairs Specialist
November 13, 2015
9. Palazzo Te About a kilometer away from the historic center is Palazzo Te, a fine example of mannerist architecture, the work of architect Giulio Romano (1499-1546), a pupil of Raphael. The frescoes here are unmissable. The subjects range from Olympian banquets in the Sala di Psiche and stylised horses in the Sala dei Cavalli to the most unusual of all, giants and grotesques wreaking havoc, fury and ruin around the walls of the Sala dei Giganti, where the painted columns seem to be crumbling down over you. 10. Festivaletteratura & food To really get into the spirit of “an Italian capital of culture”, head to Mantua during the "Festivaletteratura" event, held every year in September (from the first Wednesday to the Sunday) since 1997. It is Italy’s most important literary festival and attracts writers, including Nobel prize winners and up-and-coming ones, and literature aficionados, from around the world. To eat local specialities such as ravioli di zucca (pumpkin ravioli) in Piazza Erbe while watching the food and flower market pack up at lunchtime, is one of the great joys of visiting this city. For dessert, cross the square to Pasticceria Caravatti and gorge on torta sbrisolona (a cross between shortbread and crumble, made with almonds, sugar, butter and flour) or elvezia (brought by the Austrians and made with almonds, eggs, sugar, butter, rum and chocolate). For more information, visit http://www.turismo.mantova.it/
Congratulations to Sigonella's Lady Jags on winning the European Championships! Top row: Korley Jones, Elizabeth Camus, Isabel Dillon, Kisiah Chandler, Lei-Lani Wojtal, Kristiana Wyrick, Katelyn Bean, Hannah Barnes, Coach McCarthy. Bottom Row: Marika Wojtal, Daria Baker
Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response - Africa Detachment A Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Matt B. Hakola, left, cuts a cake during the 240th Marine Corps birthday, Nov. 10. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Valerie Black)
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