The Signature, February 19, 2016

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N A S SIG O N E L L A

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February 19, 2016

Vol. 33 No. 7

Navy Federal Credit Union Sigonella wins Cobb Award

By MC2 Helen Brown NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - Navy Federal Credit Union (NFCU) Sigonella branch was awarded the Richard E. Cobb Award for Excellence in Member Service and will be recognized for the award, April 1.

Seven branches in total won the award; however the NAS Sigonella branch earned the top score out of all 275 branches worldwide. The Sigonella branch was the only winner overseas.

Awards are based on the level of dedication to member service during the previous year. Selection factors include productivity, efficiency, and member compliments for both the Branch Operations as well as Field Mortgage sections.

“We got a phone call from Cutler Dawson, the President and CEO of NFCU, about two weeks ago about the award,” said Bruce Stryker, NFCU Sigonella branch manager. “Everyone was screaming. It is a really big deal and very hard to win.”

Stryker has been with Navy Federal for 15 years.

His enthusiasm about the award is contagious and is shared with the rest of the small staff of seven.

“We literally had a little dance party in the lobby when we found out we won,” said Ashley Smith, a member service representative. “We were super excited.”

The excitement felt through the whole branch is well deserved. The personal touch and sincere smiles that the employees give to the customers make them feel welcomed and appreciated.

“They’re very focused on doing the right thing for everyone that comes through the door,” said Stryker. “Their heart is in it.”

The Sigonella branch has been in service for 42 years. They have now been awarded the Cobb Award three times. The first time the branch won was in 1985, again in 2005, and now in 2015.

“Many branches never win it,” said Stryker. “I can’t tell you how proud I am of them.”

The award was introduced in 1980 to recognize Navy Federal branches that demonstrate the highest level of dedication to member service each year.

Back row from left to right: Janice Loza, Latonya Viree, Veronika Hilfers. Front row from left to right: Kara Waite, Bruce Stryker, Ashley Smith. (Photo courtesy of NFCU Sigonella)

“Winning is a validation of the hard work and the level of service that we give out here at Sigonella, but now we know it’s recognized beyond the island,” said Smith. “It’s recognized by our company, by all of our members and everybody we serve.”

One of the challenges that NFCU Sigonella branch faces is that most of the employees are military spouses so the turnover rate is really high.

“I hire for attitude and train for skill,” said Stryker. “Everyone is cross-trained. They move from the teller side to wherever the needs are and I think that is a big reason that helped us win the

award. They’re such a great group of people.”

Stryker provides his employees with support and training and then he empowers them and turns them loose, letting them take initiative and make decisions themselves to do right by the customers. Stryker believes people that take initiative are the ones who thrive and those are the employees he wants.

“We are really proud to serve the Sigonella community,” said Stryker. “I think we’re very close to the community, we understand it because we live it.”

Visual arts exhibit at Midtown: Celebrating Sigonella student creativity

BY JOE O’BRIEN

NAS Sigonella Executive Officer Cmdr. Charles G. McKinney II along with Art Show Coordinators Kayla Straub and LaChelle Carr share in the joy of these award-winning young students: Amarie Viree, Eva Berdugo, Isabel Berdugo, Madison Fife, Ana-Lucia Marcewicz and Ahmahd Lucas.

(Photo by Joe O’Brien)

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – The imagination, inspiration and creativity of Sigonella Elementary and Middle/High School students was celebrated at a Visual Arts Exhibit Feb. 3 at Midtown.

Entitled “Work in Progress: The Art of Youth” the exhibit was hosted by NAS Sigonella Child & Youth Program in partnership with the Boys & Girls Club of America (BGCA).

Entries were accepted in three distinct competitions under The Arts Core Program: • The National Fine Arts Exhibit Program: (individual categories) monochromatic drawings, multi-color drawings, pastels, acrylic painting, water colors, print making, mixed media, and collages • ImageMakers National Photography Contest: Nature and Surroundings • Digital Arts Festival Competition: “What I Stand For” Winners in the three categories advanced to the next level regional competition. NASSIG Executive Officer Cmdr. Charles G. McKinney II expressed his appreciation to the young artists, their teachers and parents. “Thank you for your support of your children’s talent and giving them an environment to grow,” he remarked. “I couldn’t be more proud to open up this exhibit for everyone.”

With that, he turned it over to four students who jointly held the large ceremonial scissors for the ribbon-cutting: Eli Pepito (7), Trevor O’Brien (8), Kate Frock (16) and Leana Moreno (14).

Giving some perspective on the importance of this event was

"CREATIVITY" continued on Page 15

THE SIGNATURE

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February 19, 2016

February 19, 2016

THE SIGNATURE

Direct Line

THE SIGNATURE U.S. NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA Commanding Officer Capt. Chris Dennis Executive Officer Cmdr. Charles G. McKinney II Command Master Chief CMDCM Mike Kaszubowski

Public Affairs Officer Lt. Paul Newell Saluti Sigonella, In a week Famiglia Newell departs Sicily not to return until only God knows when. Asked to guest pen this week’s Direct Line, I knew I’d be writing a farewell piece but was struggling to come up with an appropriate way to say our adieu.

Paradoxically, my inspiration came from television, Downton Abbey to be precise. My wife and I greatly looked forward to watching this Masterpiece Theater bit week after week, which initially took me by surprise. I'm hardly the hippest guy in town, but to extract so much pleasure from a show revolving around 1910s and 1920s English aristocratic uppities would have been a preposterous suggestion at first glance.

The fact of the matter, however, is that Downton Abbey was unequivocally brilliant in depicting characters from both the haves and have nots with attitudes and behaviors of decency, service before self, and random acts of kindness that struck and resonated to the very heart of the show's audience.

Sure there was plenty of back-stabbing, scandal, and unbridled passion, but at it's very core -unquestionably the show's most luring effect -was the thread of dignity and consideration of all woven through the show's six-year run. You'd never believe it looking on from the outside, but DA had a whole lot of soul; a whole lotta soul!

And those are really the same ingredients that make this place hard to leave. You know it

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when you’re living it and feel a little melancholy knowing it probably won’t ever happen again.

Not like this, anyway, nor with this caliber of people. People who really care. Guys like LT Scott Jackson, who regardless of how busy he was (he’s continuously busy, very, very busy) would always carve out the time to LISTEN to what I was saying and after carefully weighing my thoughts, had something meaningful to offer back.

Marinai neighbors like the Cardonas, Scotts, Franzkes and McNabs who without us even having to ask offered rides and even vehicles to drive about town when our car was OOC or we were unable to pick up our kids.

When my father died in August, you all sent flowers to pay your respects while everyone from the CO to Joe Schmo cooked for my wife and kids who stayed behind while I buried Dad. Every day I came to work my team was ready to do battle and put out a great product or at least make a sagging one better. To be able to see Alberto Lunetta perform his craft every day with the same die-hard, relentless approach was sincerely inspiring. When your workplace is filled with people who, like Alberto, work hard all day and don’t hesitate for a second to pick you up because your car broke down at 11 p.m., being on the job is just much more appealing.

In many ways this place was challenging. The job was demanding, sometimes relentless. For

EDITORIAL Public Affairs Officer Lt. Paul Newell paul.newell@eu.navy.mil Assistant Public Affairs Officer Lt. Jake Barreiro jake.barreiro@eu.navy.mil

Significant strides made in enhancing NASSIG water quality BY mc2 ramon go NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

most our time we always had three, and now four small and needy kiddos to look after in a place where the accompanying spouse can become isolated and blue.

But no matter how trying the times were, during our two years here this community never failed to pull together and carry each others burdens in a most decent, caring, and compassionate way.

Blessings and our very best to you all!

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 Comment regarding "Gym Hours":

The current gym hours on NAS 2 do not meet the intent of ALNAV 050/15, which instructs bases to "ensure fitness centers are accessible to all Sailors and Marines, regardless of work schedules." As such, would it be possible to adjust the gym hours to allow for all Sailors and Marines to use the gym after and before working hours? Of most concern are weekend hours (0830-1600) and the closing time of 2030 on weekdays. Sailors and Marines deployed to Sigonella and/or work early or late schedules are unable to make use of the gym due to these limited hours. Thank you.

Response:

Thank you for your feedback and patronage of our MWR Fitness Centers.

NAS Sigonella is committed to meeting the CNIC Navy Fitness program goal of creating ”Fitness for Life,” and though our two fitness centers are currently open just 90 hours per week, MWR leaders are working to increase staffing and hours to better support all our patrons, Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and civilians. Our goal is by April 1 to increase the NAS 2 Flight Line Fitness Center hours, including longer weekend hours as you mentioned. For your convenience, we’ve included the list of projected hours below. For any other questions/feedback you may have, please contact MWR Fitness Director, John Lenz at 624-0504 or via email at john.lenz@ eu.navy.mil.

NAS 2 Fitness Center Current Hours

Proposed New Hours (April 1)

Mon-Fri: 0530-2030 Sat-Sun: 0830-1600 Holidays: 0830-1600

0500-2200 0700-1900 0700-1900

Comment regarding "LN Hiring":

On Dec. 14 I applied for a local national (LN) position. A little over a week later I was told my resume was selected. Recently, however, I was informed that the selection had already been made. At least four other people I know applied for the same position and nobody was contacted. Why even advertise positions in Sigonella if there is already a selection pending? Thank you for the attention and for your time.

Response:

Thank you for bringing this topic to the attention of our community and keeping an eye out for potential abuses. Many times applicants do not realize how highly competitive recruitments can be. While recruitment for some positions may only yield a handful of applicants, more often positions produce well over 100. HRO refers qualified individuals for management consideration based on the information provided in applications. This may mean that the majority of the applications received are referred for selection. Selections are not made by HRO. Each selecting official (i.e. supervisor) reviews referral certificates and decides which candidate is best for the position. I’d also like to reiterate that the selection process for hiring for my two NASSIG UICs – 62995 and 46131 – recently underwent a dramatic overhaul to minimize the potential for nepotism or other “shady” hirings. For nearly a year now my two UICs have used either a selection board or a selection advisory panel prior to making a selection to ensure a structured, objective, and fair process for filling all competitive LN and U.S. positions. Thus far, this new hiring system seems to be a significant improvement compared to the previous model. However, if anyone suspects an unethical or illegal hiring, or would simply like more information about NAS Sigonella's hiring processes, please contact our Human Resources Director, Terry Williams, at 624-4181 or by e-mail at: Terrence.Williams@eu.navy.mil.

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Water is an important part of our daily lives.

As a result of the perception that water overseas is not as safe as water back home, many have taken extra steps to ensure their water safety by buying filtration systems, boiling their water or drinking bottled water exclusively.

As late as early 2013, Sigonella’s water suffered a negative reputation but has since made significant improvements as evidenced by positive marks on recent Navy Inspector General water quality inspections.

“This was a really good inspection.

There have been tangible improvements made and there is talent from the lowest level up in personnel and

ownership across the program,” said Capt. Eric Hawn. “There is a good coordination triad between UEM-environmental-public health, all working together and people are earnest in their work.”

Capt. Hawn, office of the naval inspector general assistant for installations, and his team arrived November 2015 to NAS Sigonella to follow up on the progress of the Special Study of Overseas Potable Water Systems.

“The Installation Water Quality Board (IWQB) was established to improve upon issues that were reported in 2009 and 2013,” said Rachel Methvin, drinking water program manager.

“We have a local IWQB, regional water quality board, and an oversight council at the headquarters level that acts as our environmental protection agency.”

In 2013, a sanitary survey of NAS Sigonella – a quality assurance review that occurs once every three years – identified 405 deficiencies that required corrective action to be compliant with CNIC and BUMEDINST regulations. Disappointed by the results but not deterred, Sigonella quadrupled its focus and commitment to water quality and tackled the situation even harder. "When I first arrived, our water processing was in rough shape," said Capt. Christopher Dennis, commanding officer of Naval Air Station Sigonella. "Since then, we have taken a holistic look at all things water and we've made intentional efforts to improve all aspects, from processes and facilities, to the personnel and attitude."

“They found a total of 405 deficiencies across the water systems in NAS 1, NAS 2, Marinai and Niscemi. Since then, we are down to 40 remaining and we are very proud of the progress we have made,” said Methvin. “Three more of the deficiencies have been sent to region for closures and if they are approved, we will have closed more than 90% of the deficiencies by the end of this month.”

Funding will continue which will help to support additional improvement in Sigonella’s water quality. A total of $18 million has been funded to improve the water plant and distribution system in the span of 2013 through 2017.

“We have addressed a lot of issues and the remaining issues are things we need to recapitalize like pipe replacement, chemical feed replacements, which means they are long-term projects that will take some time to finish,” said Methvin. “We are expecting those items to be awarded this year, and then a year or two to complete.”

A team from Washington D.C. is slated to arrive to Sigonella for the sanitary survey this month.

“Our water quality is doing really well so we have a lot to be proud of, Sigonella,” said Methvin.

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 096270001 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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THE SIGNATURE

February 19, 2016

February 19, 2016

THE SIGNATURE

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Swordfish bring home silver at EFSL Southern Divisionals By mc2 rebecca sunderland Sigonella Swordfish Public Affairs

The Sigonella’s Swordfish swim team hosted the European Forces Swim League’s Southern Divisional meet, Sunday, Jan. 31 in Acireale. Swimmers from Vicenza, Lisbon, Rota, Naples and Sigonella competed for top honors and bragging rights to see who was the best of the best in the Southern Division.

With only 31 swimmers to challenge Naples’s 63, the Sigonella Swordfish were small but mighty, taking home second and outscoring all other teams in points earned by individual swimmers.

Sigonella Swordfish Coach Emily Ellison was proud of her swimmers.

“They came out and they swam the best that they could. All of their efforts and all of their dedication through practices, drills and training all season long paid off here,” said Ellison.

The team will continue to practice but with one final goal in mind; to represent Sigonella in the 2016 European Forces Swim League Championships in the Netherlands February 27 - 28.

Swimmers have to meet timed requirements by competing at meets throughout the season to advance to the Championship meet and race against the top swimmers in Europe.

Ellison knows that win or lose; her athletes will leave it all in the pool.

“We will refocus our efforts now.

For us coaches, this season has been about improving techniques, getting faster and helping these kids qualify for champs. We’ve given them the tools, now it’s on them to put them to use. I’m excited to see what they will do at the next level,” said Ellison.

To follow the Swordfish on their Road to Champs, check out next week’s edition of the Signature.

Alyah Perkins, 12, competes in a butterfly race during the European Forces Swim League’s Southern Divisional meet, Jan. 21. The 2016 European Forces Swim League Championships will be held in the Netherlands Feb. 27 and 28. (Photo courtesy by Sigonella Swordfish)

Aircraft Intermediate Maintenance Detachment (AIMD) Sigonella pose for a group photo in celebration of achieving over 2,845 miles ran and 27 challenge medals to 46 Sailors in their AIMD Command Challenge series. (Photo courtesy of AIMD Sigonella)

AIMD Sigonella Command Challenge!

Improving Physical Fitness

By AS1 Jason Torres AIMD Sigonella Public Affairs

Vi Doke, 14, competes in a backstroke race during the European Forces Swim League’s Southern Divisional meet, Jan. 21. The 2016 European Forces Swim League Championships will be held in the Netherlands Feb. 27 and 28. (Photo courtesy by Sigonella Swordfish)

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)

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – One of the most important of the five aspects of the 21st Century Sailor and Marine Initiative is physical fitness. What are commands doing to promote this initiative? At Aircraft Intermediate Maintenance Detachment (AIMD) Sigonella, the goal is to creatively integrate physical fitness and enhancement as a way of life. In the last seven months, AIMD has accumulated over 2,845 miles and awarded 27 Challenge Medals to 46 Sailors in their “AIMD Command Challenge” series.

Command Fitness Leaders (CFL) are an integral part of the command’s Physical Readiness Program. At AIMD Sigonella, Chief Petty Officer Mallard has taken it to a whole new level with monthly Command Challenges. “The Command Challenge starts off with an idea; let’s say 100 miles a month, and then each Sailor involved will run every day to accumulate the mileage necessary to meet or exceed that goal at the end of the month. Each challenge starts with a particular Sailor’s interest and blossoms from there,” explained Chief Mallard. AIMD started off with a small group of six people who became part of the 100 Mile Club. This gradually increased into a perimeter run until eventually the numbers of participants doubled to 12 and a new challenge was created. The latest multi-discipline 125 Mile Challenge was inspired

by NC1 Gutierrez and has 36 participants across three different commands.

When the concept was introduced to the command, it was used as a tool to motivate each other and eventually brought them together increasing unit cohesiveness. It also takes a little bit of the responsibility off the CFLs and encourages the command to be involved when it comes to physical fitness.

Below is a list of Command Challenges that Chief Mallard has officiated so far: 1. 100 Mile Run Challenge - Run 100 miles in 30 Days/1-month 2. 1 mile each day for 30 days - Run 1 mile minimum 3. The Biggest Change - Before and after picture judged by participants 4. 75 Mile Run Challenge - Run 75 miles between Thanksgiving and Christmas 5. NAS II Perimeter Run Challenge - 1 Day Event 6. 35 IN 15 Challenge - Run 35 miles in 15 days.

7. 125 Mile Challenge - Run, Walk, Row, Bike (50 Mile Limit) and Elliptical for a combined total of 125 miles in 31 days.

“With these Command Challenges results come on all levels throughout the command.” Stated AIMD’s Officer in Charge Lt. Cmdr. Eric Nagley. “We are a family and we look out for one another.” These challenges make the AIMD team grow stronger as a command and as a family.

Physical fitness in today’s Navy is very important not just during the physical readiness season but all year around. According to Chief Mallard, “I hope the Command Challenge idea to go is maximum participation not just within AIMD but base-wide. It would be great to see other commands starting their own challenges or joining our challenges and making a friendly competition with it. As of right now, AIMD has accumulated over 2,845 miles and awarded 27 Challenge Medals to 46 sailors just in the last half year. I would like to see other commands challenge that!”

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February 19, 2016

Almond blossom and International Folklore festival continues in Agrigento

By Dr. Alberto Lunetta

The 71st edition of the breathtaking “Sagra del Mandorlo in Fiore” (Almond Blossom Festival) which kicked off last Thursday will continue in Agrigento every weekend until March 6 featuring dance performances, folklore parades, arts and crafts, beauty contests, concerts, delicious local food and entertainment. The 61st edition of the prestigious International Folklore Festival will begin on March 8.

Almond trees have been in full blossom in Agrigento since the beginning of February spreading their perfume in the air around the Valle dei Templi (Valley of the Temples) a world-renowned Greek archeological site, which features traces of a proud and ancient civilization. The beautiful trees provide a unique and breathtaking spectacle for the festival, drawing thousands of tourists from all over the world each year. According to the Greek poet Pindar, Agrigento is the “most beautiful city of mortals.”

The almond, which is considered a symbol of rebirth and beauty, is the first tree to bloom after the winter season.

Almonds are native to central Asia and the Mediterranean, even though they are also cultivated in the Middle East, Italy, Spain, Greece, and California which produces over 70 per cent of the world crop.

According to legend, the origin of the almond tree is rooted in a Greek mythological story. It tells of the beautiful princess Phyllis who died of a broken heart after having been deserted by Demophoon, a Greek king whom she loved. Demophoon had left Phyllis to return to Athens for a short visit but was delayed in coming back.

Phyllis’ tragic death moved the goddess to turn her into a barren almond tree which when embraced by the grieving Demophoon on his delayed arrival, burst forth into full bloom. The tale is a true demonstration of undying love. The Valley of the Greek Temples and the historic center of the town is a perfect backdrop for this worldwide brotherhood celebration.

The archaeological area known as the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, Sicily, is one of the most important archeological sites in the world and a UNESCO world heritage site since 1998. The temple of Concord can be seen from the southern extremity of this plain which is green colored and covered with flowers; a few ruins of the temple of Juno can be seen if you look toward the east; the ruins of all the sacred buildings are situated in the same line of the above mentioned temples. Still today only a small part of the landscape, admired by Goethe in 1787, has changed, and the Valley of Temples is the most famous and praised part of Agrigento.

Inside the Valley of Temples there are different monuments, remains of the ancient city of Akragas that was founded during the sixth century B.C. by settlers from Gela.

Over the course of 100 years, the city became "the finest city of mortals" (Pindar).

Destroyed by Carthaginians in 406, it was re-founded by Timoleontesin in 340 B.C. and enjoyed renewed splendor.

The ancient part of the city was abandoned during the ninth century, after the Arab conquest, and the urban nucleus was restricted to a hill above that took the name of Gergent.

Subsequently it was conquered by the Normans, and the city became a diocese in which different churches were built.

Buildings and monuments were made during the 14th and 15th centuries and again the 17th and 18th centuries. In 1927 the city took the name of Agrigento and today it has 56,000 inhabitants.

The great temples of ancient Akragas include the following sites: Hera (Juno) Lacinia, Concordia, Heracles (Hercules), Olympian Zeus (Jupiter), Castor and Pollux (Dioscuri) and Hephaistos (Vulcan). Further down, on the bank of the Akragas river, near a medical spring, stood the Temple dedicated to Asklepius (Eusculapius), the god of medicine. At the mouth of the river there was the harbor and “Emporion” (trading-post) of the ancient city. During the festival, city balconies and windows will be decorated with colored flowers.

The origins of the festival date back to the 1930s. Every year, at the beginning of February, the farmers of Naro, a small village in the Agrigento province, used to celebrate the early almond blooming with songs, dances and float

"FOLKLORE" continued on Pages 12

U.S. NAVY HEADLINES February 19, 2016

THE SIGNATURE

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Department of Navy FY17 budget: Delivering options, assuring allies, deterring adversaries

By Rear Adm. William Lescher Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Budget

Today the Department of the Navy submitted our FY17 budget request of $165 billion to Congress. Here’s what it means for the Navy and Marine Corps.

In a challenging fiscal environment, this budget provides the investment required to conduct prompt and sustained combat operations at sea; protect America from attack; and preserve America’s strategic influence in key regions of the world.

The annual Almond Blossom and International Folklore Festivals continue in Agrigento through March 6 celebrating the beauty of the early Almond trees’ flowering against the backdrop of the Greek Temples and historic center. International folklore groups showcase their heritage through traditional dance, music and costumes. (Photo by http://www.agrigentooggi.it/)

Focused investment The FY17 budget request sustains our ability to be forward deployed and continues the rebalance to the Pacific. The budget funds 58 underway days per quarter when deployed, and 24 underway days when not deployed. Ships deployed to the Pacific will increase from 52 today to 65 in 2020.

Included in this budget is a 1.6 percent pay raise, added billets for base security, and officer manning.

We invest in Sailor 2025, improving how the Navy matches Sailors with jobs in the fleet, and in key quality of life improvements including extended Child Development Center and base gym hours to ensure the Navy attracts, trains, develops and inspires the very best Sailors.

The FY17 budget submission supports the purchase of seven ships in FY17, including two Arleigh Burke class destroyers, two Virginia-class submarines, two Littoral Combat Ships, and one America-class amphibious assault ship. The FY17 budget fully funds the Ohio Class Replacement SSBN and grows the Fleet to 308 ships in FY21.

We buy 94 aircraft in FY17. F-35 FYDP production increases by 13 aircraft from the PB16 acquisition plan, accelerating 5th Generation Fighter transition. In combination with the five additional F-18s in FY16, two in FY17, and 14 in FY18, these investments help to mitigate the strike fighter shortage.

The P-8 Poseidon profile reflects our plan to accelerate procurement of one additional P-8 in FY16, and maintains the production plan to complete the buy in FY19. Additionally, this budget increases Tomahawk and SM-6 production and starts procurement of Joint Air to Ground Missile, Long Range AntiShip Missile and Longbow Hellfire for the Littoral Combat Ship surface to surface missile module.

In addition to procurement, the FY17 budget targets critical investments in shipyard and aviation depots to reduce maintenance backlogs. We will focus on properly maintaining ships and aircraft to reach their expected service lives, and supporting a sustainable operational tempo.

In the area of Cyber Resiliency and Electromagnetic Maneuver Warfare, the FY17 budget increases funding to continue to overmatch adversaries with targeted investments in both the Consolidated Afloat Network & Enterprise Services program and Surface Electronic Warfare Improvement Program.

Hard choices This fiscal environment requires each service to make hard choices in prioritizing their budget, examining every account to maximize the use of

The Department of the Navy released its proposed $165 billion (Base and Overseas Contingency Operations) budget Feb. 9 for fiscal year 2017. This budget is part of the $583 billion defense budget President Barack Obama submitted to Congress on the same day. The budget submission was guided by national level mission guidance that defines the missions the Navy and Marine Corps will execute as well as the dynamic operational environment. It makes key investments in people, platforms, and research and development, so the Department of the Navy can execute the Defense Strategy. (U.S. Navy photo/Released)

resources. In the FY17 budget, the department is seeking approval from Congress to re-phase the CG modernization plan to extend the service life of these vital Navy assets into the 2040s.

The Department continues to pressurize military construction in order to meet fiscal constraints, limiting projects to the Department’s most critical needs, and funds facility sustainment at 70 percent Navy and 74 percent Marine Corps.

Innovation and reform We are investing to increase the velocity of learning across the fleet through the Ready Relevant Learning initiative, which creates a new way of training our Sailors through mobile, modularized learning and re-engineered content that includes gaming technology and simulated environments.

Broader innovation efforts include the OFRP; this budget builds on this year’s work and the first Carrier and Expeditionary Strike Groups to deploy using OFRP. In unmanned systems, the Navy is fielding systems in all domains to include restructuring the Unmanned Carrier-Launched Airborne Surveillance and Strike program to bring high demand fixed wing capabilities to the Carrier Air Wing in the mid-20s. This system will provide intelligence,

surveillance, reconnaissance; limited strike; and tanking. Additionally the Navy is developing both surface and subsurface unmanned systems in this FYDP. To maintain a focus on developing technology at a pace that will keep us ahead of our adversaries this budget invests in rapid prototyping. This initiative provides a single, streamlined approach to prototyping emerging technologies and engineering innovations to rapidly respond to Fleet needs and priorities. And in FY17, continued focus on improving accountability and auditability ensures every appropriated dollar is tracked from cradle to grave.

Balance Overall, this budget provides the investment required for the Navy and Marine Corps to execute the Department’s Mission Guidance. In a challenging fiscal context, it reflects the best balance of investments across people, presence, readiness and capability. Across the full scope of the request, we emphasized innovation and reform to sustain advantage, accelerate learning and strengthen our team. In making hard choices and allocating risk, the request fields a larger Fleet, a more sustainable deployed Navy and Marine Corps presence, and improved capability.

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Touring Switzerland's finest By mc2 Ramon Go NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

When touring in Switzerland, expect to spend more than what you normally do in Sicily. However, don't let the costs deter you from seeing the richness poured into the country.

Expect to give and expect to receive what the country has to offer in Geneva, Charmonix and Chateau de Chillon.

Geneva Geneva is the headquarters of Europe’s United Nations and the Red Cross, it’s a global hub for diplomacy and banking. Geneva is located at the southern tip of Lake Geneva where you can view Jet d'Eau (a large fountain), the city's most famous landmark. You can also go see the L'horloge fleurie (flower clock) that was designed in 1955 made with colorful blooms that change with season.

Chamonix Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a ski resort about an hour southeast of Geneva that borders France, Switzerland and Italy. Mont Blanc is the highest summit in the Alps and you can either rent skis or snowboard or catch the cable car and take in the views. Be careful when you go up there, the weather can get extreme so they may cancel the lift for the day or wait for the weather to get better. But it doesn't mean you can't have fun, there was so much snow this past weekend that some had to dig themselves out of the snow.

Chateau de Chillon An island castle on Lake Geneva that will bring your inner child out and make you want to play hide-and-seek.

The castle doesn't seem large, but once inside, you have spent so much time that you may feel lost in time and space.

Overall, Switzerland is a beautiful place to see. The people and food are of great entertainment but planning is the most important if you want to make the most out of your vacation and not spend as much.

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All Hands News Bulletin: VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: Youth Sports is looking for dedicated volunteers to help coach during the upcoming MWR Youth Basketball season for ages 5-18. If you are interested in coaching by yourself or with a group of friends, please contact Youth Sports at eric.barge@eu.navy.mil or 624-1750. The season runs from the first week of February and ends the last weekend in March.

February 19, 2016

Civilian Hiring Process Overview: BLUF: CHR will be presenting an overview of the appropriated fund (APF) hiring process for LN and US civilian positions on 24 February. Any individual interested in learning more about the civilian hiring process including job qualification requirements, how job applications are referred, and selections are made is invited to attend the applicable LN or US session. **LN SESSION**: 24 February = Base Theater @ NAS I from 1000-1200 **US SESSION**: 24 February = Base Theater @ NAS 1 from 1300-1500 Participation is on a first come, first serve basis. Registration is not required.

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 WORSHIP SERVICE • 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 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 • September - June - 10:30 a.m. at DoDDS Knights of Columbus • First Wednesday of the month - 5 p.m. at 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 LATTER-DAY SAINTS • Sunday - 1:30 p.m. at NAS 1 Chapel Contact: sigonellalds@gmail.com or 624-9049

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: Feb. 8 - 15, 2016

Ristorante Bella Etna Friday, Feb. 19 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Corned Beef Hash, O’Brien Potatoes Lunch: Chicken a la King, Cajun Baked Fish, Egg Noodles, Steamed Rice Speed Line: Fresh Assorted Pizza Dinner: Salisbury Steak, Herbed Baked Fish, Mashed Potatoes Saturday, Feb. 20 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Corned Beef Hash, Breakfast Ham Steak, O’Brien Potatoes Brunch: Eggs to Order, Corned Beef Hash, Breakfast Ham Steak, Roast Beef, O’Brien Potatoes Dinner: Spaghetti w/ Meat Sauce, Fishwich, Franconia Potatoes

Breakfast: $3.45 Mon - Fri: 6:30 - 8:30 a.m.

Weekend / Holiday: 7-9 a.m.

Lunch: $5.55 Mon - Fri: 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Weekend / Holiday: 11 a.m. -1 p.m.

Sunday, Feb. 21 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Grilled Minute Steak, Sausage Gravy w/ Biscuit, Home Fried Potatoes Brunch: Eggs to Order, Grilled Minute Steak, Sausage Gravy w/ Biscuit, Chicken Fillet Sandwich, Home Fried Potatoes Dinner: Veal Parmesan, Spaghetti Carbonara, Rice Pilaf

Tuesday, Feb. 23 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Creamed Beef w/ Toast, Oven Fried Bacon, Italian Roasted Potatoes Lunch: Chicken Cacciatore, Shepherd's Pie, Hoping John, Rosemary Potato Wedges Speed Line: Fish Tacos, Burritos Dinner: Herbed Baked Fish, Lasagna, Steamed Rice

Monday, Feb. 22 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Minced Beef w/ Toast, Grilled Sausage Patties, Hash Browns Lunch: Parmesan Fish, Southern Fried Chicken, Steamed Rice, Garlic Cheese Potatoes Speed Line: Fresh Assorted Pizza Dinner: Chicken Fried Steak, Pork Adobo, Ovenable Brown Rice

Wednesday, Feb. 24 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Grilled Minute Steak, Sausage Gravy w/ Biscuit, O’Brien Potatoes Lunch: Baked Stuffed Pork Chops, Fried Shrimp, Steamed Rice, Mashed Potatoes Speed Line: Grilled Hamburgers Dinner: Chicken in Orange Sauce, Meatloaf, Mashed Potatoes

Dinner: $4.85 Mon - Fri: 4:30 - 6 p.m.

Weekend / Holiday: 4:30 -6 p.m.

Thursday, Feb. 25 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Corned Beef Hash, Home Fried Potatoes Lunch: Sweet & Sour Pork, Chicken Adobo, Filipino Rice Speed Line: Pasta Bar Dinner: Swedish Meatballs, Chicken Tetrazzini, Steamed Rice Friday, Feb. 26 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Creamed Beef w/ Toast, Grilled Sausage Patties, Hash Browns Lunch: Salisbury Steak, Creole Fish Fillet, Rice Pilaf, Mashed Potatoes Speed Line: Fresh Assorted Pizza Dinner: Lemon Baked Fish, Savory Baked Chicken, Dirty Rice, Potatoes Au Gratin

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.

February 19, 2016

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NAVSUP FLC Sigonella Supports Exercise Cutlass Express 2016

By Shannon R. Haney Naval Supply Systems Command Fleet Logistics Center Sigonella Directorate of Corporate Communications

GAMEZONE Photography

Maritime forces from Madagascar conduct a visit, board, search, and seizure exercise onboard the French frigate Le Floreal (F-730) during exercise Cutlass Express 2016 Feb. 1. Cutlass Express is a U.S. Africa Command-sponsored multinational maritime exercise designed to increase maritime safety and security in the waters off East Africa, western Indian Ocean, and in the Gulf of Aden. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Mat Murch/Released)

exercises facilitated by U.S. Naval Forces EuropeAfrica/U.S. 6th Fleet. It takes the lessons learned from past exercises and expands on them.

The exercise lasted eight days and included an in-port preparatory phase and three days of at-sea scenarios meant to test and provide feedback. The exercise is part of a comprehensive strategy of U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet and U.S. Africa Command to enable African partners to address maritime security concerns.

NAVSUP FLC Sigonella, one of eight fleet logistics centers under NAVSUP Global Logistics Support (GLS), provides global logistics, business and support services to fleet, shore and industrial commands of the Navy, Coast Guard, U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army and allied forces.

Services include contracting, regional transportation, fuel, material management, household goods movement support, postal and consolidated mail, warehousing, global logistics and husbanding, hazardous material management, and integrated logistics support.

NAVSUP GLS provides global logistics for a global Navy. The organization is made up of more than 6,500 military and civilian logistics professionals operating from 105 locations worldwide providing an extensive array of integrated global logistics and contracting services to Navy, Marine Corps, joint operational units, and allied forces across all warfare enterprises.

For more news from Naval Supply Systems Command, visit www.navy.mil/local/navsup/.

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

DIFFICULT

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.

MEDIUM

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily (NNS) -- Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) Fleet Logistics Center (FLC) Sigonella's Expeditionary Contracting Support (ECS) Branch is provided contract support for Exercise Cutlass Express 2016, Jan. 30 to Feb. 6.

Exercise Cutlass Express, a maritime exercise involving several participating nations, took place in the Western Indian Ocean and focused on cooperation and teamwork.

The NAVSUP Sigonella ECS Branch was awarded the contract for fuel and oil for maritime crafts that will be used during the exercise.

"Locating local fuel vendors in this area of responsibility can be very challenging," said ECS Division Director Keely Pool. "However, this exercise provided us the opportunity to demonstrate our increasing ability to provide effective expeditionary and exercise procurement support to U.S. forces to allow them to meet their obligations under the exercise."

NAVSUP FLC Sigonella Site Djibouti established direct communications with supply officers participating in the exercise to ensure support is provided as needed during the exercise.

Exercise Cutlass Express is centered around partner nations working together and doing more together than they ever could on their own. Its principal goal is to build and maintain the capability to protect the free flow of trade by countering maritime illicit activity. Vessel queries and ship boardings, airborne maritime patrol operations, and search and rescue drills are just a few things on the agenda for this year.

Participating nations include Australia, Canada, Comoros, Djibouti, France, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Rwanda, Seychelles, Somalia, South Africa, Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, United Kingdom, and the United States, as well as representatives from the Eastern Africa Standby Force, EU Naval Force, International Maritime Organization (IMO), and Combined Task Force 150.

Exercise Cutlass Express, in its fifth year, is one of four Africa-focused regional "Express" series

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EASY

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"FOLKLORE" continued from Page 6

"CREATIVITY" continued from Page 1

parades. The festival also helped to promote local community produce.

Through the years, the festival, which was moved to Agrigento, earned an international reputation as a celebration of peace and friendship that involves folklore groups from all over the world.

Sigonella Elementary School Art Teacher Francine Hammond. “Art is important because it allows us to think outside the box,” she said. “Doing art helps you make connections and you may put symbols in your picture depending on your life experience. So many things come into play when creating art.” In addition, Hammond noted that students who participate in art typically do better in standardized tests like Terra Nova.

The exhibit featured a three-dimensional visual arts display by artist, sculptor, master wood carver and craftsman Gianni Sessa who used chisel, mallet and large clamps to work on a wood figure head. He graciously invited students to give it a try under his skillful guidance.

Dominic Cenuse (6) was one of the eager youngsters willing to tackle the project. As he finished and got ready to pass the chisel and mallet to the next in line, with a broad smile Dominic summed up the experience in one word: “fun!”

Sessa who has an art studio in Catania, typically creates his art in wood and clay but he recently created two nine-foot tall lions out of Styrofoam as stage props for the famous Bellini Theater. Serra has known Art Teacher Francine Hammond for 12 years and when she told him about this upcoming visual arts exhibit, he was more than eager to participate.

Another proud participant was Sigonella High School student Kate Frock (16) who won First Place in Acrylics for her age group. “This is the first real acrylic painting I’ve done and it was for real because I had a purpose,” she explained. “Before this I was just practicing and experimenting.”

“I titled it ‘Harmony’ because everything just seemed so well put together,” she continued. “I used my fingers instead of a brush to get that special effect in the background.”

After presenting certificates to winners in each category of the art exhibit, Cmdr. McKinney once again expressed thanks to all those who helped make this event a success.

Festival Highlights This year, eight folklore groups from around the world will showcase their heritage through traditional dance, music, and costumes.

This weekend (Feb. 20-21) features folklore parades of Sicilian horsedrawn carts, horse shows and street food stands.

From Feb. 26-28, festival goers can enjoy a Mediterranean ethnic music festival as well as Sicilian folk music and traditional food. On Feb. 27-28, the third festival weekend will be preceded by the celebrations for San Gerlando, the Agrigento patron saint festival and will feature music entertainment by local bands and organic and healthy food seminars and workshops by Slow Food (a global movement involving thousands of projects and millions of people in over 160 countries that supports the principles behind organic agriculture, such as promoting methods that have a low impact on the environment and reducing the use of pesticides, the opposite of fast food and fast life. Slow Food means living an unhurried life, taking time to enjoy simple pleasures, starting at the table).

The first week of March (March 4-6) features the almond and folklore festivals and a half marathon. March 8 marks the beginning of the 61st edition of the prestigious International Folklore Festival that will be featuring folklore groups from the following countries: Brazil – Gravataí – AldeidadosAnjos Folk Group; Colombia - Bogotà – Fundacion Artistica y Cultural Akaidaná; Greece – Dafne (Atene) – ELKELAM dance ensemble Hellenic Centre for Folk Studies, Mexico – Città del Messico – Escuela del Ballet Folklórico de México de Amalia Hernández; Poland – Swidnik (Lublino) – The Folk Dance Ensemble Leszczyniacy; Rumania – Timisoara – BanatulFoklore Group, Slovakia –Bratislava – “Sl’uk TheSlovak State Traditional Dance Company”; Spain –Alhama de Murcia – Grupo Folklorico Villa de Alhama; Thailandia –Bangkok – Satit Silpakorn University Folk Dance Group; Turkey – Ankara -Tuana Folk Ensemble, Spain (Banda) – Ponferrada – León – Banda de Gaitas Castro Bérgidum.

The last day of the festival (Sunday, March 13) will begin at 9 a.m. with a folklore show leaving from piazza Pirandello and features the final award show around 2 p.m. at the enchanting Valley of Temples. From March 5 through 13, an arts, crafts & antique fair (Fiera dell’Antiquariato) will be held in piazza La Malfa. Tickets are required to attend some events such as concerts and some folklore shows.

For more information and detailed schedules call 0922-25019 or visit http://www.sagradelmandorlo.it

What are you saving for?

By Andrea Carobene Personal Finance Training Instructor, FFSC

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – The Military Saves Campaign kicked off last week with an annual Proclamation event that highlights February as a month for all of us to reassert our commitment to financial priorities and savings goals. Many tenant departmental teams and Sigonella community members have responded with enthusiasm to the challenge put forth by the Fleet and Family Support Center and took part in the Military Saves Pledge. As part of their pledge, many have made the “I’m Saving For…” commitment by posting on the FFSC Sigonella Facebook page to build community awareness and momentum for Sigonella to make a strong statement of savings activism through this promotion.

Making a commitment to savings

is only the beginning of the process, however. The Military Saves theme for 2016 is: Start Small. Think Big. Setting a goal will create a specific focus for savings activity. Visit the FFSC Facebook page to get a sense of what many locals are focusing their attention on. Common themes are saving for retirement, creating an emergency fund, planning ahead for vacations, reducing student loans, buying a new car and even college savings for a new granddaughter.

The Fleet and Family Support Center is offering a class on “Credit Management” on Feb. 24. The financial education resources throughout this community are here to support you in turning your goals into planned strategies for successful outcomes. Contact your command CFS or FFSC at 624-4291 for more information, and join us to get involved with this community effort!

Award Recipients: First Place Certificates in the following categories (by age youngest to oldest): Acrylic Painting: Ana-Lucia Marcewicz, CeCe Warren, Michael Escolero, Kate Frock Water Colors: Ahmahd Lucas, Leana Moreno, Kate Frock Mixed Media: Amarie Viree, Jimmy Escolero, Madison Phillips Print Making: Michelle Rodriguez, Deandre Peters Monochromatic: Madison Fife, Ashley Birnley Multicolor Drawings: Eva Berdugo, Amanda Benson, Leana Moreno Collages: Jaden Morales, Ben Berlin, Jared Lopez Pastels: Isabel Berdugo, Emily Havard Photography: Allyse Laxton, Emily Taylor Graphic Design: Carla Biddlecome, James Peirce

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Kindergarteners from Stephen Decatur Sigonella Elementary School post Valentine's Day Cards with NAVSUP FLC staff at the Naval Air Station Sigonella military post office. (U.S. Navy photo by Shannon Haney/Released)

NAVSUP FLC Sigonella helps kindergarteners post valentines

By Shannon R. Haney NAVSUP FLC Sigonella Directorate of Corporate Communications

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Kindergarten students from Stephen Decatur Sigonella Elementary School visited the military post office on board Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella, Feb. 10.

The post office is operated by Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) Fleet Logistics Center (FLC) Sigonella personnel, who were eager to help the children post valentines and educate the kindergarteners on how the post office functions.

Upon the students' arrival, each child held a Valentine's Day card with enthusiasm. The cards were a surprise for their families and they stood ready to learn how to mail them.

Logistics Specialist 3rd Class Soua Yang asked the kids if they knew where their parents work and hands shot up into the air. The students responded with an array of answers; fire station, airfield, and the hospital were the most common. Yang assisted the children with posting the envelopes. The children lined up and took turns using the date stamp. One by one, the kindergarteners proudly pressed the stamp down firmly posting the envelopes.

When they finished, Yang asked the children to look at the last number in the ZIP code and place their valentines in the corresponding bin. Yang explained that each ZIP code represented the base that their parents work on and assured the children that the valentines would be delivered to their parents.

"It is always a wonderful experience and a great pleasure to be able to make the kids smile," said Yang. "This is just an everyday process to me, but to the kids, this is a new experience. It allows me to account for how my job can affect those around me, even if I don't get to witness it firsthand."

Prior to the children returning to school, a question and answer session took place.

"Do you use the Pony Express," asked Timmy, a five-year-old from Harry Atkinson's class.

The postal team chuckled and Wes Smith, NAVSUP FLC Sigonella's postal officer, said, "What a wonderful question! No, we do not use it here."

Smith explained that the Pony Express was a mail service that delivered mail by horseback a long time ago and continued by explaining how the mail is currently delivered.

"It is a great feeling to provide service to all of our customers, but there is something special about a school visit and to experience the excitement the children have about sending their parents a card and asking questions about the post office," said Smith.

NAVSUP FLC Sigonella, one of eight fleet logistics centers under NAVSUP Global Logistics Support (GLS), provides global logistics, business and support services to fleet, shore and industrial commands of the Navy, Coast Guard, U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army and allied forces. Services include contracting, regional transportation, fuel, material management, household goods movement support, postal and consolidated mail, warehousing, global logistics and husbanding, hazardous material management, and integrated logistics support.

NAVSUP GLS provides global logistics for a global Navy. The organization is made up of approximately 6,300 military and civilian logistics professionals operating from 105 locations worldwide providing an extensive array of integrated global logistics and contracting services to Navy, Marine Corps, joint operational units, and allied forces across all warfare enterprises.

For more news from Naval Supply Systems Command, visit http://www.navy. mil/local/navsup/.

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