The Signature | August 25, 2017

Fuel for the Fleet: August Update

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Navy Headlines:

USO:

New Authority for COs

Calendar of Events

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N A S SIG O N E L L A

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AUGUST 25, 2017

Vol. 34 No. 31

NAS Sigonella Raises Energy Awareness

by MC2 Christopher Gordon NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – If the U.S. Department of Defense were a country, it would rank 58th in the world for energy consumption, right below Denmark and above Syria. With this much in resources dedicated to energy, it’s crucial for the Navy, and more specifically Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella, to save and conserve energy.

“It’s all about the mission, everything we do in the Navy is for supporting the mission,” said JP Thomasseau, Deputy Director of Public Works. “In order to do that mission we need money. We have a limited amount of money, so everything we waste as far as energy is like idling your car: it’s not taking you anywhere and that gasoline and motor cost money.”

For most people, if they don’t see the bill they don’t realize how much they’re spending. But every light, computer, air conditioning unit, or printer that is turned on and not being used is money that could be utilized elsewhere. One light bulb turned on might not seem like a lot, but for 24 hours a day, and combined with all the other lights around base filling empty rooms with useless light, it adds up to a hefty preventable bill.

According to Fleet Forces Command, the dominant lesson learned from the Navy’s 2016 Great Green Fleet (GGF) campaign is that energy, like

manpower, maintenance, training and equipment, is a critical resource that fleets must manage tactically, operationally and strategically. Smart sustained energy management underwrites the global presence necessary to secure stability, deter potential adversaries and ensure our readiness to conduct prompt and sustained combat operations at sea.

But that isn’t the only incentive to do your part in conserving energy at home and on base.

Competitions like Fuel for the Fleet judge regional bases on how well they are conserving energy, and the top winners are awarded a cash bonus to be directly used to improve facilities for their communities. NAS Sigonella used similar funds to create a shade structure over the elementary school playground along with other projects.

“All these competitions are based off of how much we can reduce off last year,” said Thomasseau.

“Having been big winners before, its harder and harder to win as we get better and better. So technology is one way we win.”

Located on the Naval munitions compound is one of the biggest photovoltaic (solar panel) farms in the Navy. Every year NAS Sigonella saves around $25,000 in energy costs just from those solar panels.

“In the next couple of years we’re planning on putting a whole batch of them on the NEX and other places around NAS 1 because we have a good location with a lot of sun,” said Thomasseau. “Everything that

The digital artwork depicts the concept of energy saving awareness displaying the earth inside a light bulb.

(Graphic by Sandra Cantrell)

we gain once we pay back the cost of the technology is easy money the Navy gets in return.”

For more information on Navy energy and how you can do your part to save and conserve, visit greenfleet.dodlive.mil.

NAVSUP Fleet Logistics Center Sigonella’s ELRT Supports Saxon Warrior 17

By Tia Nichole McMillen Public Affairs Officer

SIGONELLA, Sicily (NNS) -Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) Fleet Logistics Center

(FLC) Sigonella deployed a 13-person Enterprise Logistics Response Team (ELRT) recently to support Exercise Saxon Warrior 2017.

Saxon Warrior 2017 is a co-hosted exercise between the United States

and the United Kingdom, focused on developing combined proficiency in the area of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) operations, enhancing interoperability, and projecting power from the sea.

LT Derek Roncaioli (left), LT (RN) Alexander Meaden (second from right), and LS2 Alberto Brown (right) take a group photo with the Royal Navy Reserves Fleet Logistics Support Team in front of USS Truxtun (DDG 103) prior to commencement of Exercise Saxon Warrior 2017. The Enterprise Logistics Response Team (ELRT) is on the ground in the U.K. to support Exercise Saxon Warrior 2017. The team is supporting the exercise from several forward logistics sites in the U.K. The U.S. routinely trains its allies and partners to ensure mission readiness and interoperability during high-end warfare.

(U.S. Navy photo by Tia Nichole McMillen (Released)

The NAVSUP FLC's Logistics Response Teams (LRTs) deploy personnel on short notice to coordinate and deliver support to operational units in locations where the Navy has little or no organic footprint.

When the supported commander's logistics requirements exceed the normal capabilities of an individual NAVSUP FLC, personnel from the greater NAVSUP Enterprise come together to form an organic LRT capability. These "Enterprise" LRTs (ELRT) give NAVSUP FLC Sigonella the capability to support the theater commander's mission with greater depth and for longer periods across the full range of military operations.

The team supporting Exercise Saxon Warrior 2017, comprised of 13 Sailors from NAVSUP FLC Sigonella, NAVSUP FLC Norfolk, NAVSUP FLC Jacksonville, NAVSUP FLC Pearl Harbor, and NAVSUP FLC Puget Sound, deployed to various locations around the United Kingdom including Mildenhall, Faslane, and Portsmouth. Coordination and planning for this team was facilitated from NAVSUP FLC Sigonella in Sigonella, Sicily.

"Supporting this exercise was eyeopening," said Lt. Joe Green, logistics exercise lead. "Working alongside our U.K. partners gave me a greater appreciation for how we integrate strategic logistics in an operational environment. I'm extremely impressed by the team's ability to analyze the situation and find a way to meet the mission, no matter what obstacle."

"NAVSUP" continued on Page 4

THE SIGNATURE

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AUGUST 25, 2017

Direct Line

ATCS Bill Rhodes, NAS Sigonella Acting Command Master Chief Saluti A Tutti!

For the last few weeks, you have probably heard some cadence being called loud and proud as a group of motivated Sailors run in formation throughout the community. Or you may have seen a group of Sailors, wearing yellow shirts that say “Selectee”, conducting a Community Relations project at the Sigonella Middle High School a couple of weekends ago. If you haven’t noticed one of these things, then you probably aren’t aware that we are in the middle of the CPO365 PHASE II Season. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to congratulate our newest Chief Selectees and their families when you see them out in the Sigonella community. I think most Chiefs would agree that it is during this time a part of us is reborn. We reminisce about

the adversity we faced during our own seasons and our own personal experiences leading up to the pinning ceremony. I am personally reminded of how I felt when I found out I made Chief. I distinctly remember the rush of emotions and the extreme feeling of being overwhelmed. I remember the feeling of standing in the hangar when my CO told me I was selected, and the proud feeling of throwing my cover in the air. I immediately called my wife and told her the news. I remember how hearing the pride in her voice as she congratulated me brought tears to my eyes.

I will remember those seven weeks in 2005 for the rest of my life. To me, being “The Chief ” is not only a milestone. It is the fulfilment of a legacy built on leadership and rich in heritage. I am confident that our new Chief

Selectees are in great hands and will be guided and mentored by some of the finest Chiefs in the Navy. Though challenged, I know they will be ready to meet adversity head on, with good grace and humility.

There are, unfortunately, some very deserving and hard-charging Sailors in our Sigonella community that didn’t get selected this year. My advice to you is to stay the course.

Continue to strive for excellence in all that you do. Pull out your Learning and Development Roadmap (LADR) and seek out those leaders in your rating community that can provide insight into career milestones that will assist in getting you to the next level.

The selection process is highly competitive and quotas are limited. Get and stay involved in your peer group associations. Become an institutional

and technical expert. Continue to be the leaders that you are. Our community is filled with years of naval leadership and experience that can help you.

I look forward to learning with each and every one of you during CPO-365 Phase I.

Commanding Officer's Suggestion Box The ICE/CO Suggestion Box is for our community and Commanding Officer to discuss, with an eye toward constant improvement, how we are excelling* and how we can improve**. The community is strongly encouraged to leave contact information when submitting comments. This ensures that a response will come directly to you. The Signature and NASSIG Facebook Page typically publish comments and responses for the benefit of the Sigonella community.

Comments/suggestions are useful when objective, constructive, and specific. ICE/CO Suggestion Box is NOT a forum for mean-spirited attacks. Anonymous comments will be published only if they benefit the greater community at large. * If you submit a "BZ" about a specific person or department, PLEASE PROVIDE YOUR NAME in order to ensure comment authenticity and therefore publicly recognize employees or organizations. ** The Commanding Officer will ensure a response to all signed comments/suggestions and the vast majority of anonymous ones but reserves the right to disregard those comments/suggestions disinterested in the spirit of the program!

There are two ways to submit; go to: 1) Interactive Customer Evaluation (ICE) home page on a One-Net computer at: http://ice.disa.mil, All Sigonella services are found under the Navy Europe Listing in the scroll-down menu.

– or – 2) NAS Sigonella's website www.cnic.navy.mil/Sigonella, go to the "About" drop down menu and click on "CO Suggestion Box".

Interactive Customer Evaluation Comment regarding “Civilian mandatory online training”:

Could Installation Training and Command Human Resources provide more guidance on NAVADMIN 072/17 which eliminates the requirement to use Navy e-Learning, accessible through My Navy Portal for mandatory training for military members. This NAVADMIN extends NAVADMIN072/17 to include all Navy civilian employees. Civilian government employees will no longer be required to log onto Navy e-Learning or Total Workforce Management Services to complete mandatory annual training. The commanding officer and each level of leadership shall seek to conduct mandatory and required training at small face-to-face training sessions, with appropriate leaders engaging employees in group sizes small enough to allow meaningful discussion. All instances of completed civilian training must be recorded in the Defense Civilian Personnel Data System via MyBiz within 30 days of completion. Cyber Awareness Challenge V4 and its successive versions will remain as the only on-line training requirement.

All other training topics may be completed via any delivery method determined acceptable by local commands.

Response:

Thank you for your comment and concern. There have been lots of questions across the Navy about this subject and as a result another NAVADMIN is currently being prepared to clarify the requirement for mandatory training. Until that is released, the following guidance applies across CNIC: - Per CNIC HQ N1-Continue to utilize the current method(s) that best supports the delivery of mandatory training-- Online training is ok and probably the easiest way to accomplish the requirements this late in the fiscal year.

- CNO is currently working on a revised NAVADMIN to clarify the direction in NAVADMIN 139/17, which removed the requirement to complete mandatory training on-line and execute face-to-face training. The pending NAVADMIN is expected to be more flexible with a preference for face-to-face training and the alternative to use online training to meet requirement as well.

- The Office of Civilian Human Resources will develop course codes for faceto-face training to assist documenting training completion to consistently report DON-wide compliance for mandatory training.

If you have any further questions please feel free to contact Base Education and Training Department at 624-4516 or the Human Resources Department at 624-4185.

Comment regarding “Gas Coupons for Second Vehicle”:

I was told in the base Indoctrination briefing that gas coupons are not supposed to be used in secondary vehicles or any other vehicle other than our primary vehicle and that our gas coupon privileges would be removed if we do. Is there a possibility that we could be allowed to use gas coupons in our secondary vehicles? The difference in the cost of fuel with gas coupons and without is to the point that I am going to sell my secondary vehicle to save on the fuel cost and road tax. Road tax is more than $500 a year and fuel is double the normal cost on top of extra car insurance.

If the policy is controlled by US interest, allowing members to utilize gas coupons for more than primary vehicles would save all personnel money. If the policy is not controlled by the US there is little anyone can do to make a change.

"ICE" continued on Page 3

THE SIGNATURE

AUGUST 25, 2017

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THE SIGNATURE U.S. NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA Commanding Officer Capt. Brent Trickel Executive Officer Cmdr. Patrick J. Moran Command Master Chief Acting CMC ATCS Bill Rhodes

Name: IT2 Tyler Nichols Department: NCTS Hometown: Massena, NY In the age of pocket computers, lightning fast Internet linked worldwide, and satellite communications, attacks on people have shifted from physical to cyber. Over a ten-month period in 2015, 30 million known malicious intrusions occurred on Department of Defense networks. Sailors like Information System Technician 2nd Class Tyler Nichols work day and night to ensure none of those 30 million attacks become successful.

Nichols works at the Local Network Service Center on Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella, doing network related computer repair.

“I go out and fix computers, switches, servers, printers and a whole lot of other things,” said Nichols. “Not only repair but monitoring and making sure there’s no malicious activity taking place.”

On top of his duties as an IT, Nichols is also a Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) Victim Advocate (VA), where he works with and councils victims of sexual assault, and helps give them the aid they need.

Additionally, Nichols likes to volunteer his time with different associations on base. Last year Nichols volunteered at the Navy Ball, setting up the sound and slide show and making sure there was power. He also goes out

EDITORIAL Public Affairs Officer Lt. Andriana Genualdi andriana.genualdi@eu.navy.mil Community Relations Officer Dott. Alberto Lunetta alberto.lunetta.it@eu.navy.mil Editor MCC Jessica Vargas Jessica.Vargas@eu.navy.mil PAO Staff Writer \ Photographer MC2 Christopher Gordon Christopher.Gordon@eu.navy.mil

into town on Community Relations (COMREL) at least once a month.

“We recently went to an orphanage out in town, repainted a few rooms and did some light gardening,” said Nichols.

“It was fun, the kids were splashing us with paint and we were splashing them back. They wanted to show us all their toys and it was just a heartwarming experience that I won’t forget.”

In his free time, Nichols likes to go out with his wife and huskies to the beach or hiking the local trails. On top of spending time with his wife and dogs, Nichols has a love for building computers, looking into hardware

"ICE" continued from Page 2

Response:

Thank you very much for taking the time to voice your concern regarding the gas coupon issue and use for secondary vehicles. The Tax-Free Fuel coupons are granted via an agreement with the Republic of Italy, Italian Ministry of Defense (IMOD) and the Department of Defense of the United States of America.

NAVSUPPACT NAPLES INSTRUCTION 10340.1H states the following, “Per reference (i), tax-free POL "P" coupons are available with the intent of providing sufficient tax-exempted fuel for home-to-work travel. Only eligible individuals may purchase coupons based on their vehicle's engine size and type of fuel that the primary vehicle requires. A ration is allowed only for only one registered Type I primary AFI (white plated) vehicle per eligible individual." Reference (i) above is the Italian Ministry of Defense letter 50609 dated 7 May 1992.

Essentially, the coupons are intended to defray the cost of getting a service member to and from work in their primary vehicle. Fuel rations are only issued for a primary vehicle in accordance with the instruction and direction from the TaxFree Office in Naples, any other vehicles utilized outside of the primary vehicle are at the service member's discretion.

I truly understand the monetary impacts you mentioned, but this a program run in agreement with the Italian Government and cannot be altered at this time. Thank you again for your comment. If you have any further questions regarding gas coupons please contact the Motor Vehicle Registration Office at 624-5275.

specifications and keeping an up-todate system. His wife: not so much.

“My wife wants no part of gaming but it’s a healthy relationship,” Nichols laughed. “I like to nerd out and she rolls her eyes but then she’ll want me to read this book or watch this show about vampires or werewolves, so it’s a compromise.”

What both of them can agree on is their love for travelling. Since being stationed at NAS Sigonella, Nichols and his wife have travelled throughout Sicily, and also to London, Amsterdam, Rome and Paris; and plan on visiting more in the future.

Comment regarding “Splashers Pool swim requirements”:

In regards to the NAS1 Splashers Pool, I believe it's an injustice to the energy conservation efforts here at Sigonella to have the Kiddie Pool and water slides running during nonrecreation swim hours. In conjunction to the waste of energy, it's unfortunate that the swim test rules are so strict that children are unable to utilize the water slide. My 7 year old daughter was able to pass last year's swim test without issue but the standards this year are entirely overzealous. The water at the end of the slide is shallow enough for even Preschool aged children to safely stand up with their entire head above the water. I know this with absolutely certainty because my 5 year old daughter uses this area for her swim lessons. I wholeheartedly understand and appreciate the concerns for safety and security at the pool but I believe more faith should be placed in the ability of the parents to assist in ensuring their child is able to enjoy the facilities safely. Please reconsider the swim test standards so Sigonella kids can actually use these great facilities!

Response:

Thank you for your comments in regards to the NAS 1 Splashers Pool. In reference to energy conservation, turning the slides and kiddie pumps off during hours of nonoperation has been thoroughly reviewed and discussed with the Public Works Department contractors who maintain the pump room facilities. The pumps to the kiddie pool and slides require a several day period at a minimum to turn on, adjust

"ICE" continued on Page 15

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 any anonymous articles. All advertisements in this publication are the property of Stampa Generale S.r.l. Any reproduction of advertisements in The Signature is unauthorized without the written consent of the publisher.

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THE SIGNATURE

NAS Sigonella’s Emergency Dispatch Center; Always Ready to Answer the Call

By GM3 Joshua Neal

The Emergency Dispatch Center is the first point of contact for emergency situations, both on and off base. The NAS Sigonella Emergency Dispatch Center, located on NAS II, manages all emergency scenarios hand-in-hand with our medical, security, and fire responders.

Emergency situations can develop at any time and any place, and range from natural disasters such as wildfires, flooding, and earthquakes to manmade disasters like terrorist attacks, civil unrest, or even traffic accidents, home intruders, and include any and all medical emergencies.

Sigonella’s Dispatch personnel are trained to gather and distribute critical information from the caller to first responders, and provide callers with advice and assistance until help can arrive on scene. Dispatchers not only receive calls, but also monitor radio traffic and various types of alarms, and are trained to utilize specialized systems to further assist our Sigonella family. Depending on the nature and the jurisdiction of the incident, dispatchers are also able to share critical lifesaving information with key agencies. Always heard but never seen, our dispatchers stand ready to do their part in creating a better to-

morrow for everyone.

The Emergency Dispatch Center is manned 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to allow coverage for all emergency services both on and off base. NASSIG members may contact the Emergency Dispatch Center by dialing their Emergency Hotline at 624-1911 via DSN, or 095-86-1911 off base and via cell phones. We are also available for non-emergency calls such by dialing 624-5225 DSN, or 095-865225 from your cell phones. What counts as a non-emergency?

Perhaps you are in need of a tow truck for example, or maybe your work requires you to access a monitored space. Our dispatchers can help you connect with the right people for your situations. It is vital that every service member, government employee, and family member of NASSIG community have these numbers saved in the contacts list of his or her phone in case of an emergency situation. A small step, as simple as this, could save essential time in providing you with the proper responding services.

Any further information regarding Emergency Dispatch Center can be directed to our Emergency Management Officer, Niki McBain, at 624-8293 or to our Dispatch Manager, Beth Bruner, at 624-2603.

AUGUST 25, 2017

"NAVSUP" continued from Page 1 This deployment acted as a proof of concept for how NAVSUP FLC Sigonella conducts and sustains operations including contracting, fuels, global logistics services, hazardous material management, integrated logistics support, material management, postal, regional transportation, warehousing, logistics operations, and ammunition in a contingency environment.

When Sailors first arrived, they integrated with the Royal Navy to analyze exercise planning and port services, ensure all priority cargo would reach the warfighter. They used organic Royal Navy assets to load cargo and mail on the George H. W. Bush CSG. Logistics support for exercises like Saxon Warrior begins long before the exercise commences, and the ERLT is on the ground to help.

"It's been an interesting experience working with the Royal Navy. We learned a lot, and in the end we are teaming up to ensure the warfighter-U.S. or allied forces-can succeed at their mission," said Logistics Specialist 2nd Class Alberto Brown.

To date, with support from the USAF 100th Logistics Readiness Squadron (LRS) and 727th Air Mobility Squadron, the ELRT has processed more than 950 pieces of cargo (more than 49,000 pounds) and more than 9,000 pounds of mail in support of United States Ships participating in the exercise.

With a successful ELRT deployment within the 6th Fleet Area of Responsibility, NAVSUP FLC Sigonella is wellpostured to support expeditionary logistics operations now and in the future.

NAVSUP FLC Sigonella is one of eight fleet logistics centers under NAVSUP GLS, which provides global logistics, business and support services to fleet, shore and industrial commands of the Navy, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, Air Force, 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.

AUGUST 25, 2017

THE SIGNATURE

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Renters Insurance No Longer Included in PPV Housing Leases

By Navy Installations Command Public Affairs

WASHINGTON – In accordance with NAVADMIN 198/17 renters insurance will no longer be provided by Public Private Venture (PPV) partners as part of their housing rental agreements.

The change will be implemented within six months following the NAVADMIN release so that Sailors will have enough time to obtain the best renters insurance plan that fit their needs, should they choose to do so.

All Sailors are encouraged to obtain renters insurance, however, regardless of where they choose to live.

“This change will provide equality among all Sailors – those renting on the economy and within PPV housing,” said

Navy Installations Command Housing Director Greg Wright.

Sailors in existing PPV leases will continue to be covered by the renters insurance provided by PPV partners until the expiration of their current leases.

Naval Facilities Engineering Command, the executing agent for PPV business agreements, is coordinating with PPV partners to amend the business agreements and remove the automatic inclusion of renters insurance in future PPV leases.

Sailors who have questions should contact their Housing Service Center (HSC) representatives.

For more information about housing and PPV properties for rent, visit www. homes.mil. For more information about Navy Installations Command, visit http:// www.cnic.navy.mil.

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THE SIGNATURE

AUGUST 25, 2017

Saint Agrippina Festival in Mineo this weekend Story by Alberto Lunetta

This weekend, the community of Mineo will pay tribute to Santa Agrippina, (Saint Agrippina) its beloved patron saint, with religious processions, holy masses and a combination of fireworks and music shows.

Saint Agrippina was a princess who was martyred by Roman Emperor Valerian in 256 AD because she was a Christian. According to tradition, after being buried in Rome, the holy relics of Saint Agrippina were taken to Sicily by three holy women: Bassa (Agrippina’s sister), Paola and Agatonica and arrived in Mineo on May 17, in the year 261 AD. The statue of the patron saint, which is preserved inside the cathedral, is carried through the city streets for veneration during the two weekends of the festival. You can still see this Sunday (Aug. 27) spectacular procession beginning at 8 p.m. and continuing until midnight when a breathtaking fireworks show will be staged along viale F. Crispi. On Sunday morning there will also be horse and traditional Sicilian carts’ parades at 10 a.m. and one hour later a solemn Holy Mass will be held at the Church of Santa Agrippina. After the big procession, there will be a breathtaking fireworks show at midnight along viale Francesco Crispi in the town’s center.

The “Pellegrinaggio dei Nudi” (Pilgrimage of the naked ones), which takes place in the town’s center tomorrow night (Saturday, Aug. 26) at 6 p.m., is another highlight of this lively festival. Nudi are barefoot devotees dressed in white shorts and t-shirts with a red sash and a black velvet belt. They are called “naked ones” because in the past they attended the processions by wearing only white “causi a tila” (underpants) and carrying a holy picture of the saint and a bunch of flowers. The reason for such a simple dress relates to a legend telling about a night when a terrible earthquake woke up Mineo’s townspeople from their sleeps in 1693. Hundreds rushed into the streets wearing only their nightshirts and invoked Saint Agrippina for the cessation of the earthquake tremors.

At the beginning of last century, the bishop of Siracusa prohibited devotees from wearing only underpants during the festival, as he believed it was an inappropriate outfit for a religious procession. During this fascinating religious parade, devotees scream in Sicilian: “Viva la nostra patrona Sant’Agrippina!”

(Long live Saint Agrippina, our patron saint!).

They also recite the rosary and sing hymns in Sicilian. After the World Wars, many Mineo residents who survived the fighting made a vow to go on a pilgrimage every year in Mineo for the rest of their lives. Saint Agrippina is also venerated for having protected Mineo against a devastating earthquake that hit the town in 1975. The festival’s entertainment includes will also include fireworks and music shows.

Saint Agrippina is also celebrated in Boston with a spectacular festival. For the occasion, many people who are originally

"Saint Agrippina" continued on Page 14

Make sure you mark on your calendar the must-see religious festival, celebrating the patron saint of Mineo, that is scheduled to take place this weekend in Mineo where the local community is ready to honor Santa Agrippina, its beloved patron saint, with religious processions, holy masses as well as fireworks and music. (Photo by Mineo Tourist Office)

AUGUST 25, 2017

THE SIGNATURE

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Researchers Announce Wreckage from USS Indianapolis Located From Naval History and Heritage Command, Communication and Outreach Division

WASHINGTON -- A team of civilian researchers led by entrepreneur and philanthropist Paul G. Allen has announced they have found the wreck of the World War II cruiser USS Indianapolis (CA 35), which was lost July 30, 1945.

This is a significant discovery considering the depth of the water in which the ship was lost - more than 18,000 feet. Around 800 of the ship's 1,196 Sailors and Marines survived the sinking, but after four to five days in the water - suffering exposure, dehydration, drowning, and shark attacks - only 316 survived.

The wreck was located by the expedition crew of Research Vessel (R/V) Petrel, which is owned by Allen, 5,500 meters below the surface, resting on the floor of the North Pacific Ocean.

"To be able to honor the brave men of the USS Indianapolis and their families through the discovery of a ship that played such a significant role in ending World War II is truly humbling," said Allen. "As Americans, we all owe a debt of gratitude to the crew for their courage, persistence and sacrifice in the face of horrendous circumstances.

While our search for the rest of the

wreckage will continue, I hope everyone connected to this historic ship will feel some measure of closure at this discovery so long in coming."

Indianapolis was lost in the final days of World War II when it was torpedoed by a Japanese submarine in the early morning hours of July 30, 1945.

The Indianapolis sank in 12 minutes, making it impossible to send a distress signal or deploy much of its life-saving equipment. Prior to the attack, the Indianapolis had just completed a secret mission delivering components of the atomic bomb used in Hiroshima that would ultimately help end the war in the Pacific.

"Even in the worst defeats and disasters there is valor and sacrifice that deserves to never be forgotten," said Sam Cox, director of the Naval History and Heritage Command. "They can serve as inspiration to current and future Sailors enduring situations of mortal peril. There are also lessons learned, and in the case of the Indianapolis, lessons re-learned, that need to be preserved and passed on, so the same mistakes can be prevented, and lives saved."

Others have searched for Indianapolis in the past. Among the elements that made this effort different was Allen's recent acquisition and retrofit of

the 250-foot R/V Petrel with state-ofthe-art subsea equipment capable of diving to 6,000 meters (or three and a half miles).

"The Petrel and its capabilities, the technology it has and the research we've done, are the culmination years of dedication and hard work," said Robert Kraft, director of subsea operations for Allen. "We've assembled and integrated this technology, assets and unique capability into operating plat-

form, which is now one amongst very few on the planet."

The other key factor in the discovery was information that surfaced in 2016 when Dr. Richard Hulver, historian with the Naval History and Heritage Command, conducted research that led to a new search area to the west of the original presumed position.

"USS Indianapolis" continued on Page 15

PEARL HARBOR (UNDATED, 1937) The USS Indianapolis (CA 35) underway in Pearl Harbor in 1937. (U.S. Navy photo/Released)

Navy Announces New Authority for COs

erated advancement ratings, which receive advancement upon completion of individual training.

"These changes are part of our Sailor 2025 and Rating Modernization initiatives, which are aimed at empowering our COs and streamlining policies where it makes sense," said Chief of Naval Personnel Vice Adm. Robert Burke.

"Our profession relies on trust and confidence up and down the chain of command and we expect our COs to make decisions that are ultimately aimed at developing our YOKOSUKA, Japan - Sailors assigned to the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) take Sailors' character and competence. the Navy-wide E-4 advancement exam. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Changes like these help us do just Specialist 2nd Class Nathan Burke/Released) that."

Beginning Dec. 1, 2017, when these policy changes From Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs reach Division go into effect, COs may reinstate a Sailor's rank to E4 WASHINGTON -- In an effort to reduce adminis- after a minimum six-month waiting period who was trative distractions and further empower commanding reduced in rank to E3 by non-judicial punishment for officers (CO), the Navy announced Wednesday in NA- minor offenses. Reinstatement to E4 is at the discreVADMIN 200/17 that it will grant COs the authority tion of the individual's Commanding Officer, and does to reinstate Sailors to E4 who were previously reduced not automatically occur. COs may choose to delay reinstatement until they deem the Sailor is ready and are in rank to E3.

Additionally, this NAVADMIN also announces the under no obligation to advance the individual if they elimination of the E4 advancement exam for 20 accel- do not feel it is warranted.

Also beginning Dec. 1, which marks the start of the Spring 2018 petty office advancement cycle, the following E4 exams will no longer be given for the following 20 ratings belonging to the Advanced Electronics Field, Advanced Technical Field, and Nuclear Field programs: Naval Air Crewman (Mechanical) (AWF) Naval Air Crewman (Operator) (AWO) Naval Air Crewman (Helicopter) (AWR) Naval Air Crewman (Helicopter) (AWS) Naval Air Crewman (Avionics) (AWV) Cryptologic Technician (Interpretative) (CTI) Cryptologic Technician (Networks) (CTN) Electricians Mate (Nuclear) (EMN) Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician (EOD) Electronics Technician (ET) Electronics Technician (Nuclear) (ETN) Fire Controlman (FC) Fire Controlman (Aegis) (FCA) Intelligence Specialist (IS) Information System Technician (Submarine) (ITS) Machinists Mate (Nuclear) (MMN) Missile Technician (MT) Navy Diver (ND) Special Warfare Boat Operator (SB) Special Warfare Operator (SO) For further details of these changes, read NAVADMIN 200/17 at http://www.npc.navy.mil.

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Congratulatio

Photo

YN2 Gabrie

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ons Awardees!

os by

elle Milly

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AUGUST 25, 2017

NAS SIGONELLA COMMUNITY PAGE All Hands News Bulletin: IT'S PRT SEASON, TIME TO GET IN SHIPSHAPE!

FREE GUIDED MEDITATION WORKSHOP, OPEN TO ALL!

Command, Department or Organization: HEALTH PROMOTION Date of Event: 31 AUGUST - 19 OCTOBER (8-WEEK CLASS) Time of Event: 1400-1530 Location of Event: NAS I CHART ROOM /MIDTOWN CLASSROOM Point of Contact Name: LT Katrina Lutfy Point of Contact Phone Number: 624-4710 Point of Contact Email Address: usn.sigonella.navhospsigonellait.mesg.hp@mail.mil Additional Information: Health Promotion has scheduled the next ShipShape, nutrition and weight management class. 31 August - 19 October, every Thursday from 1400-1530.

This is a great opportunity for sailors that have failed the PRT and for all those that are borderline failure to learn the healthy way to weight loss and weight management. To register, please call Health Promotion at 624-4710 or email usn. sigonella.navhospsigonellait.mesg.hp@mail.mil.

Command, Department or Organization: HEALTH PROMOTION Date of Event: Wednesday, 27 September • Time of Event: 1400-1530 Location of Event: Hospital's SEAT Classroom Point of Contact Name: LT Katrina Lutfy Point of Contact Phone Number: 624-4710 • Point of Contact Email Address: usn.sigonella.navhospsigonellait.mesg.hp@mail.mil Additional Information: Join U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella Health Promotion department and the Hospital's Internal Behavioral Health Consultant, LTJG Khatiwoda, for a Stress Management Workshop to learn what stress is, how to beat it, coping techniques, and practice a 15-minute guided meditation session! This class is open to all members of base, including Local National employees who are encouraged to participate in Health Promotion programs during admin time!

Max 15 seats. First come, first serve. To sign up and for more information call Health Promotion at 624-4710 or email usn.sigonella.navhospsigonellait.mesg.hp@mail.mil.

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

NAS 1

Mondays AA Meeting: . . . . . . . . . . 1800-1900 Tuesdays Protestant Women of the Chapel: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0900-1100 Daily Mass: . . . . . . . . . . . 1130-1230 AWANA: . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1645-1900 Youth for Christ (YFC) Youth Meeting: . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1200-1430 Wednesdays Protestant Men of the Chapel: . . . .

0600-0700 Daily Mass: . . . . . . . . . . . 1130-1230 Catholic Ladies' Guild (3rd Wednesday): . . . . . 1600-1800 Thursdays Daily Mass: . . . . . . . . . . . 1130-1230 Youth for Christ (YFC) Youth Meeting: . . . . . . . . 1200-1530 Choir Practice: . . . . . . . . 1630-1800 The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA): . . . . . . . . 1800-2030 Fridays Daily Mass: . . . . . . . . . . . 1130-1230 First Friday Mass and Holy Hour: .

1700-1830 Saturdays First Saturday Rosary and Mass: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1100-1200

Weekly Traffic Report: Aug. 14 - Aug. 21, 2017

Liturgical Protestant Service - NAS I Chapel - . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1800 Sundays Catholic Mass: . . . . . . . . 0900-1000 Catholic Religious Education (DoDDS): . . . . . . . . . . . . 1045-1200 Protestant Service: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1100-1200 Latter-Day Saints Service: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1330-1600

NAS 2

Wednesdays Knights of Columbus (1st Wednesdays): . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1700-1800 Protestant Women of the Chapel (PWOC): . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1800-2100 Thursdays AA Meeting: . . . . . . . . . . 1800-1900 Sundays Protestant Service and Fellowship: . . . . . . . . . . . 1800-2000 Roman Catholic Mass - NAS I Chapel - . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0900 Non-Liturgical Protestant Service NAS I Chapel - . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1100 Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (Mormon) . . . . . . . . . . . . .NAS I Chapel - 1300 Non-Liturgical Protestant Service NAS II Chapel - . . . . . . . . . . . . 1800

Ristorante Bella Etna

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.

AUGUST 25, 2017

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GAMEZONE

ARCHERY ATHLETICS BADMINTON BASEBALL BASKETBALL BEACH VOLLEYBALL BOXING CANOEING CYCLING DIVING EQUESTRIANISM

FENCING SYNCHRONIZED SWIMMING FOOTBALL TABLE TENNIS GYMNASTICS TAEKWONDO HANDBALL TENNIS HOCKEY TRAMPOLINING JUDO TRIATHLON MODERN PENTATHLON VOLLEYBALL RHYTHMIC GYMNASTICS WATER POLO ROWING WEIGHTLIFTING SHOOTING WRESTLING SOFTBALL YACHTING SWIMMING

MEDIUM

Note: Similarly named events are hidden separately.

For example, SWIMMING and SYNCHRONIZED SWIMMING do not overlap.

EASY

Find and circle all of the Summer Olympic events that are hidden in the grid.

The remaining letters spell a secret message.

DIFFICULT

Summer Olympics

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"Saint Agrippina" continued from Page 6 from Mineo but live abroad come back to Sicily participate in the festival showing their faith and carrying the statue as this festa (festival) is one of the only ties remaining that unifies them with their homeland.

For more information and detailed festival schedules, visit https://www.facebook.com/CircoloSantaAgrippina/

AUGUST 25, 2017

Remembering Operation Husky, Ponte Dirillo

Mineo, the city of poets As Sicilian novelist Giuseppe Bonaviri tells, there is a magic spot in Mineo, a picturesque city nestled between two hills in the Iblei Mountains, which is named Piano di Camuti (Plain of Camuti). Bonaviri says that according to one myth, Mineo’s pregnant women are told to go to that plain and sit on a “Philosopher’s Stone” if they want their babies to develop a talent in poetry. Mineo’s community has been indeed producing dialectal poets and writers galore. As pointed out by Bonaviri, there is something in the Mineo air that favors the developing of artistic and creative skills in its residents. Mineo has a rich cultural and artistic heritage. It is the birthplace of novelist Luigi Capuana (1839-1915), one of the masters of “Verismo,” a literary movement of the 19th century marked by the presentation of realistic life using common people characters such as fishermen and peasants who are often treated in a melodramatic manner.

Sigonellans will surely enjoy visiting Mineo’s breathtaking landscapes, experiencing its festivals, fairs and taking a breath of fresh and cool air especially during the torrid Sicilian summer.

Corkscrewing the sharp turns that lead to Mineo, one notes that the city looks like a pottery nativity scene. A few years ago, when Mineo hosted a basehousing complex called “Villaggio degli Aranci”, which has been turned into a refugees’ center in 2011, some American kids attended local schools and other American families had their children baptized at the magnificent Church of Santa Agrippina.

An ideal tour of this picturesque should begin by walking through the medieval vaneddi (narrow streets) of the historic heart and reaching the magnificent Church of San Pietro, a baroque masterpiece featuring beautiful paintings, a magnificent organ dating back to 1772 and a precious walnut choir.

From the church, one can see the ruins of the ancient Castello di Ducezio enjoining a great view of the surrounding hills. The ruins include part of the exterior defensive walls and the main tower. This magnificent castle is named after Ducezio (495-440 BC) an ancient Sicilian commander who founded several cities in Sicily.

Then, a must-see stop is the Chiesa di Santa Agrippina, the town’s cathedral that is named after the patron of Mineo. This church, which was originally an “oratory” (a private chapel) in 263 AD and later a mosque in the 14th century, was rebuilt in the 17th century since its structure was damaged by an earthquake in 1693. Inside, the Chiesa features a polychrome wooden statue depicting the patron of Mineo that was made in 1518 by Vincenzo Archifel. Precious stuccoes and a unique 16th century wooden nativity scene also enrich the church.

Returning to the main square, you should not miss to see the Chiesa del Collegio, a church that is part of the Town Hall architectural complex. It has an impressive and majestic reliquary featuring thousands of bones belonging to local saints.

The Town Hall also houses a small museum dedicated to novelist Capuana where you can also see on display one of the first cameras dating to the beginning of last century. It features the novelist’s study. Admission is free.

For more touristic information on Mineo, visit the town’s official web site: http://www.comune.mineo.ct.it/

A memorial stone in honor of the service members killed in action during Operation Husky at Ponte Dirillo. (Photo by ET2 Galloway)

By ET2 Nicholas Galloway

GELA, Sicily –July 10 marked the 74th Anniversary of the beginning of the liberation of Sicily from fascist rule by launching Operation Husky during World War II. The Commanding Officer of U.S. Naval Computer and Telecommunications Station (NCTS), Sicily, Cdr. Donald E. Hocutt, and the Mayor of Gela, Honorable Domenico Messinese represented the U.S. and Italian forces that came together during a remembrance ceremony at Ponte Dirillo.

“Each year, we take a pause and remember certain events that have shaped our history,” said Cdr. Hocutt. “We remember 9/11, we remember Pearl Harbor, and we remember the 4th of July. There are significant dates and events that are etched into our minds and collectively, these events shape world history. We remember D-Day and the success enjoyed in Normandy, but also realize that the success enjoyed in Normandy would have been impossible without the foundation of

success set in Sicily during Operation Husky. Without doubt, these brave men took steps that would ultimately be the catalyst for freeing Europe from the chains of tyranny and oppression.”

The ceremony commenced at the church of Santa Lucia in the city of Gela with a Holy Mass presided over

by Father Luigi. Guest speakers at the church included the Honorable Messinese, Cdr. Donald E. Hocutt, Dott. Giuseppe Abatte, Secretary of the Kiwanis Club of Gela and Mr. Paul Galloway, Executive Director of the Airborne and Special Operations Museum Foundation, who came all the way from Fayetteville North Carolina to pay homage, and many others.

The ceremony recognized 39 men in particular; that fought and died during the battle of Biazza Ridge.

There were 38 U.S. Army paratroopers from the 82nd Airborne Division and 1 U.S. Navy Ensign to provide call for naval fire support.

"Ponte Dirillo" continued on Page 15

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"ICE" cont’d from Page 3 the water levels, and balance the chemicals in order to safely and effectively operate. It is not feasible for the contractors to turn these pumps off and on every day, as we offer Recreation Swim seven days a week, and have both the kiddie pool and water slides ready for use. While energy conservation is always the goal, the Aquatics facilities would not be able to operate these areas should the pumps be turned off daily.

To your second point regarding the Navy Youth Swim Test being "entirely overzealous,” Sigonella follows and operates under the CNIC Navy Youth Swim Test SER N92-1-001 which states, "To ensure the highest level of safety for users of MWR Aquatic facilities, youth under the age of 17 are required to pass all of the following minimum standards prior to use of the swimmer’s zone and/or additional recreational amenities (i.e. pool slides, etc) in accordance with ref (b) and (c): - Swim one pool length (minimum 25 yds.) unassisted and without rest.

- Swimmers must use a recognizable swim stroke from a prone position (i.e. front crawl, breast stroke) for the entire distance.

- Tread water for a minimum of 60 seconds. Arms and hands may be used to assist with tread. Head and shoulders must remain above the surface of the water for the full duration of the test.

- Jump into deep end of

PAGE 15 swimming pool or water that is over the patron’s head and return to surface. Participants may jump from the side of the pool or diving board, feet first.

- Exit pool unassisted.

These standards are set, as a minimum, Navy-wide to provide proper usage of the facility and safety for users of all ages. To your comment about the slides, SER N921-001 clearly states that the minimum standards of the Navy Youth Swim Test must be met prior to the use of additional recreational amenities, to include the water slides. Additionally, manufacturer's requirements spe-

cific to the main water slides on NAS 1 require 48" height requirement. While MWR recognizes the importance of parents/guardians monitoring their children during Recreation Swim, these rules set

by CNIC are in place in order to standardize Navy MWR programs/services and to provide a safe and consistent environment throughout the many Navy aquatics facilities world-wide.

For more information regarding the Aquatics program, please contact the MWR Aquatics Manager Beth Sweely at 624-4334 (+39-095-56-4334) or beth. sweely@eu.navy.mil.

"USS Indianapolis" continued from Page 7 Hulver's research identified a naval landing craft that had recorded a sighting of Indianapolis hours before it was torpedoed. Using that information, the research team developed a new position and estimated search, which was still a daunting 600 square miles of open ocean.

Allen-led expeditions have also resulted in the discovery of the Japanese battleship Musashi (March 2015) and the Italian WWII destroyer Artigliere (March 2017). His team was also responsible for retrieving and restoring the ship's bell from the HMS Hood for presentation to the British Navy in honor of its heroic service.

Allen's expedition team was recently transferred to the newly acquired and retrofitted R/V Petrel specifically for

"Ponte Dirillo" cont’d from Page 14 “On July 10, aerial and naval bombardment commenced,” said Galloway. “One of the largest combined operations of World War II began. The invasion force of 4,000 aircraft and 3,000 ships…put 150,000 troops and 600 tanks on the beaches of Sicily… against an Axis force of 1,400 aircraft and 260 tanks. When the Sicily campaign started the initial strength of the Allies were 160,000 troops. Of the Axis, Germany committed 60,000 troops, and 230,000 Italians stood strong to defend their homeland. By campaign end, the allies suffered 24,820 casualties. Of which 5,837 killed in action, 15,683

continuing exploration and research efforts.

The 13-person expedition team on the R/V Petrel is in the process of surveying the full site and will conduct a live tour of the wreckage in the next few weeks.

Their work is compliant with U.S. law, respecting the sunken ship as a war grave and not disturbing the site.

USS Indianapolis remains the property of the U.S. Navy and its location will remain confidential and restricted by the Navy. The crew of the R/V Petrel has collaborated with Navy authorities throughout its search operations and will continue to work on plans to honor the 22 crew members still alive today, as well as the families of all those who served on the highly decorated cruiser.

wounded and 3,326 taken prisoners. The Germans evacuated the island after suffering over 20,000 casualties and the Italians suffered 147,000 casualties, of which 130,000 recognized as prisoners by the allies. We are here to remember those who fought here, those who shed their blood here and those that gave the ultimate sacrifice on that day.”

Operation Husky involved many heroic actions that took place for the campaign to liberate Sicily from the Axis powers. It is with the men and women that died in the name of their countries that we remember and silently reflect upon their sacrifices in the hopes of building a better future for all humanity.

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