National Night Out: Fun for all
PAGE 9
USO Entertainment:
Navy Exchange:
See Chef Robert Irvine
A-OK Student Rewards
PAGEs 10-11
N A S SIG O N E L L A
PAGE 16
August 5, 2016
Vol. 33 No. 31
NAS Sigonella Hosts Celebrity Chef Robert Irvine BY YN2 Gabrielle Milly NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Though he hosts several Food Network shows, Chef Robert Irvine may be best known for his show Restaurant: Impossible. But, according to Irvine, his passion for food comes second to his passion for the military. On July 28, Irvine spent the day with service members aboard NAS Sigonella as part of a twoday USO tour in the region. He started the day with an early morning PT session led by Marines with the Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa where he completed a circuit course comprised of upper and lower body workouts, Marine Corps Martial Arts Program techniques and laps around the baseball field. “The Marines didn’t kill me; they almost did, but I am still here,” said Irvine. “When you think about the most elite fighting force in the world, you think about the Marines; number one. They are typically the first ones in and the last ones out on a mission.” Irvine’s interest in cooking started at an early age. At 11-years-old, Irvine attended a Home Economics Class comprised of 30 girls; he was the only boy. “I joined the class to meet girls, but it didn’t work out that way,” said Irvine. A native of England, Irvine joined the British Royal Navy at the age of 15, and his skills in the kitchen soon came to the attention of his superiors. “Cooking is a great way to transfer knowledge and let people come to a common ground. We don’t live to eat; we eat to live,” said Irvine. After dining at the base galley, touring the facilities and meeting with Sailors, Irvine hosted an interactive cooking show for service members and their families. “My best experience in Sigonella started from the time that I touched down, up until the moment I leave and everything else in between,” stated Irvine.
Volunteers from the crowd created a mixture of ingredients for Celebrity Chef Robert Irvine to incorporate into a dish during his live performance at NAS 2, July 28. Chef Irvine had 10 minutes to turn the mixture into a surf and turf dinner utilizing Cheetos, Doritos, Sriracha sauce, barbeque sauce, sour apple liquor, and other surprise ingredients. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ramon Go/Released)
Irvine said he and his team work with the mili- Navy's second largest security command, second only to that located at Naval Support Activity Bahtary about 150 days each year. For his volunteer service, Irvine was named rain. Because of its location near the center of the Honorary Chief Petty Officer of the Navy by Mas- Mediterranean Sea, NASSIG is well placed to supter Chief Petty Officer of the Navy Mike Stevens, port operations by the U.S. 6th Fleet, other U.S. miland awarded the Bob Hope Award for Excellence itary units, and U.S. allies and coalition partners. For more news from Commander, Navy Region in Entertainment and Service of our Service Members by the Congressional Medal of Honor Society, Europe, Africa, Southwest Asia, visit http://www. among other awards for his participation and vol- navy.mil/local/cnre/. For more news from Naval Air Station Sigonelunteerism to the service members of the military. Naval Air Station Sigonella, "The Hub of the la, visit http://www.navy.mil/local/nassig/. Med," is a U.S. Navy installation and an Italian Air Force base in Sicily, Italy. NAS Sigonella is the More photos of "CHEF" continued on Pages 10-11
Commander Task Force 67 Change of Command
Capt. Bill Ellis gives a speech after properly relieving Capt. Bryan Durkee as the commodore of the Commander, Task Force 67, Aug. 2. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ramon Go/Released) By lt brian f. o'bannon CTF-67 Public Affairs
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Capt.
William R. Ellis relieved Capt. Bryan W. Durkee as Commodore (CDRE) of Commander Task Force 67 (CTF67) during a change of command
ceremony Aug. 2 at Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily. CDRE Durkee commanded CTF67 from June 2014 – Aug. 2016 and is moving to Washington, D.C. to serve on the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations staff at the Pentagon. “To the men and women of Task Force SIX SEVEN, thank you. It has truly been a humbling experience to serve with you for the past two years,” said Durkee. “We have been at full throttle or ‘1010’ as we say, coordinating with our allies and executing operations at increasing levels every year.” In attendance were Adm. Michelle J. Howard, Commander Naval Forces Europe and Africa, guest speaker Vice Adm. James G. Foggo, III, Commander United States Sixth Fleet, and Rear Adm. Kyle Cozad. CTF-67 serves as Commander of all United States Maritime Patrol Aircraft in the Sixth Fleet Area of Responsibility including P-3Cs, EP-3s, and soon to be the new P-8A Poseidon.
“Maritime patrol aircraft will continue to be a fundamental aspect of warfare-at-sea. CDRE Durkee worked tirelessly to ensure all of the preparations were made to incorporate the new P-8s into the area of operations,” said Foggo. “Including P-8s into exercises like Shark Hunt, Joint Warrior, Cold Response, and BALTOPS, has helped validate that we are ready for the first P-8 deployment anytime now.” During Durkee’s command, CTF67 was supported by four operational deployments from Patrol Squadrons Four, Nine, and Forty-Seven from Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii and multiple detachments from Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron One from Whidbey Island, Washington. His command saw the first Theater Anti-Submarine Warfare operations conducted in years, supported operations ACTIVE ENDEAVOR, ATLANTIC RESOLVE, and INHERENT RESOLVE
"CTF-67" continued on Page 8
Due to the Italian holiday period in August, The Signature will be on a two-week break beginning August 8. Don't miss our next issue available on August 26. Stay up-to-date by visiting us on the NAS Sigonella Facebook page.
PAGE 2
THE SIGNATURE
August 5, 2016
Direct Line
Commanding Officer Capt. Brent Trickel Ciao Sigonella, Welcome to the sweltering days of August. As always, please keep safety in mind during summer activities, whether they be leisure, work, mowing the lawn, etc. Stay safe and stay hydrated. This past week has been marked by some truly amazing events in Sigonella. First off, I would like to commend everyone for the outstanding National Night Out this Tuesday in Marinai. National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make our neighborhoods safer, better places to live. It began in Boston in Aug. 1985 with two people raising awareness in their neighborhood and has grown to over 15,700 communities and 38 million people worldwide. Here in Sigonella we had a significant turnout with over 70 U.S. and Italian military and law enforcement vehicles including a coast guard helicopter. It was great to see our two countries come together to support this event. While I was partaking in the National Night
Out festivities, Chief Petty Officer selection results were released. It was a great way to end the day as I notified NAS Sigonella’s newest CPO Selectees: MAC(SEL) Michael Garwood, MAC(SEL) Adam Olson, MAC(SEL) Mark Russell, YNC(SEL) Priscilla Taft and BUC(SEL) Travis Young. On Tuesday I was able to promote three Sailors under the Meritorious Advancement Program (MAP). MAP provides commands the opportunity to recognize their best Sailors, advancing them when they are ready for the next level of responsibility. Please congratulate Sigonella’s newest promotes: MA3 Derocher, MA2 Cron, and LS2 Castro. As if there wasn’t enough good news on Tuesday, I also received notice that Sigonella was named the Region’s Energy Biggest Loser winner for the second consecutive year! Thank you for your efforts in reducing energy consumption and remember that the goal of Energy Biggest Loser isn’t to reduce consumption just in July, but to promote energy savings year round.
Thank you, Sigonella, for your contributions in making us the most energy efficient installation in the Region and congratulations again to all of our newly selected Chief Petty Officers!
Marines Compete for German Armed Forces Badge BY German Air Force TSgt Florian Claussen NATO Alliance Ground Surveillance
NAS Sigonella, Sicily – From July 5-7, 20 Marines from the Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Marines, 2D Marine Division had the chance to earn the "Abzeichen fuer Leistungen im Truppendienst" (German Armed Forces Badge for Military Proficiency) with the support of the German National Support Element of the NATO Alliance Ground Surveillance Force (NATO AGS). NATO AGS was established at Sigonella in April 2015 in order to give commanders of all 28 allied forces a comprehensive picture of the situation on the ground. By the end of the year it is expected to acquire the first of five Global Hawk remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) and the associated ground command and control stations. When fully operational, it will consist of about 600 service members and contractors, 120 of which will be the German contribution to the program. One week after completion of the challenges, the Acting Commander of the German National Support Element in Sigonella, Maj. Patrick Plettner, presented the badges to the Marines during a ceremony. In his speech he focused on the great cooperation between the U.S. Marines and German Support Element noting, “This challenge was held for the first time in Sigonella. So, for me, this is the first opportunity to talk to a befriended US Force, namely you Marines.” Marine 1Lt Jones, Executive Officer of the Marine Corps, who represented the U.S. side during the ceremony, also remarked on the “outstanding relationship” between the two units. The opportunity to earn this award is rare for foreign troops and often proves to be challenging due to the high standards to be met. Due to a limited time frame the Sigonella-based Marines squeezed this multi-day and multi-task event into just three days. To earn the badge individuals must complete a 12km (7.5mi) foot march with a 15kg (33lbs) backpack in a maximum time of two hours. The U.S. Marines excelled in this task despite facing temperatures of 29C° (85F°). Another challenge consisted of swimming in uniform and taking off the uniform underwater. Last but not least a pistol target practice had to be fulfilled engaging three targets with five single rounds. Nevertheless the basic fitness test was taken with outstanding performance shown by all of the well-trained Marines. All 20 Marines passed the test with flying colors. Eight of them even qualified for gold, 11 for silver and one for the bronze award. Following this great initial joint activity, members of both units are looking forward to expanding 20 Marines from the Charlie Company, 1st Battalion 8th Marines, 2D Marine Division compete for the German their relationship further in the near future as part of Armed Forces Badge for Military Proficiency with the support of the German National Support Element of the NATO a growing US-German friendship on NAS Sigonella. Alliance Ground Surveillance. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ramon Go/Released)
August 5, 2016
THE SIGNATURE
PAGE 3
Congratulations to our Chief Selectees
THE SIGNATURE U.S. NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA Commanding Officer Capt. Brent Trickel Executive Officer Cmdr. Charles G. McKinney II Command Master Chief CMDCM Mike Kaszubowski
NAS SIGONELLA MAC(SEL) Michael Garwood MAC(SEL) Adam Olson MAC(SEL) Mark Russell YNC(SEL) Priscilla Taft BUC(SEL) Travis Young CTF-67 AWOC (SEL) Allen Tolbert
VP-4 ATC(SEL) Krystal Engle AMC(SEL) Bradley Barnes ADC(SEL) Walter Portillo
AIMD ASC(SEL) Diaz LSC(SEL) Lopez PRC(SEL) Patterson
U.S. NAVAL HOSPITAL HMC(SEL) Max Elia HMC(SEL) Jimmy Escolero HMC(SEL) Gerard Diaz (Bahrain)
NATO ITC (SEL) Ryan Butler
Name: YNSA Auriele Lard Dept: Fleet Logistics Center Hometown: Dallas, Texas YNSA Lard was born in San Diego, Calif. but hasn’t stayed in one place long due to her father’s Naval career. Lard has been in the Navy for 10 months and is making the most out of her time in the military. “I joined the Navy because my Dad and two brothers are in the Navy and I figured that it was destined to happen. Initially I wanted to go to college but it was very expensive so I made the decision to enlist,” said Lard. She said it’s been a big transition from being a civilian to becoming a Sailor with a lot of increased responsibility and hard life decisions. Her job at Fleet Logistics (FLC) consists of awards, correspondence, special request chits, designation letters and a lot of paperwork for FLC personnel. As a member of the Coalition of Sailors Against Destructive Decisions (CSADD), she tries to volunteer around the community as much as possible. Between work and volunteering within the community, YNSA Lard is currently working on her Seaman
to Admiral (STA-21) package while also studying to become a nurse. “I am currently enrolled in two college classes and finishing up the summer semester and I will take two more classes in the fall semester.” “I miss the convenience of everything back in Texas like going to the grocery story and being close to my family but it’s nice here. It’s my first time being this far away from home but I really enjoy Italy.” When she is able to get out, she
enjoys shopping and sightseeing with her friends out in town. So far she has travelled locally within Sicily but aims to see Paris. Overseas duty has been a challenge and huge transition. “I never thought I would get selected to go overseas and I was overwhelmed at first and didn’t know what to do. But I believe it all depends on your attitude and how you handle different situations. I like to keep a positive attitude so it makes it easier.”
EDITORIAL Public Affairs Officer Lt. Andriana Genualdi andriana.genualdi@eu.navy.mil Assistant Public Affairs Officer Nicole Ybarra nicole.ybarra@eu.navy.mil Community Relations Officer Dott. Alberto Lunetta alberto.lunetta.it@eu.navy.mil PAO Staff Writers \ Photographers MC2 Ramon Go ramon.go@eu.navy.mil YN2 Gabrielle Milly gabrielle.milly@eu.navy.mil CONTACT US Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily thesig@eu.navy.mil DSN 624-5440; 095-86-5440 PSC 812 Box 7, FPO, AE 09627-0001 PUBLISHER Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity Capodichino (Naples), Italy stampagenerale@tin.it Tel. 081-568-7884 Fax 081-568-7887 This civilian enterprise (CE) newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services overseas. Contents of The Signature are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense (DoD), or the U.S. Navy. The appearance of advertising in this newspaper, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the DoD or Stampa Generale S.r.l., of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factorof the purchaser, user or patron. A confirmed violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected. The Signature is published weekly by Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity, Capodichino (Naples), Italy. Tel. 081-568-7884. Fax 081-568-7887. E-mail: stampagenerale@tin.it. Editorial submissions are welcomed from all Naval Air Station Sigonella departments, divisions and tenant commands. Editorial submissions should be sent to the Public Affairs Office via thesig@eu.navy. mil, guard mail stop #68 or hand-delivered to our office no later than the close of business on the Friday proceeding the expected publication date. All articles submitted by non-staff members will be considered contributing writers. The Signature will not publish 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.
PAGE 4
THE SIGNATURE
August 5, 2016
Sigonella Sailors Bring Seabee Spirit to Local Town BY CM2 David Mortenson Public Works Department
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – The Seabee Motto is “We Build, We Fight.” The Municipality of Mascali has seen its fair share of both throughout history. In the 14th century it was destroyed during war and needed to be rebuilt. More recently in 1928 a massive eruption sent lava coursing over the town, causing massive destruction and necessitating a large reconstruction project by the government. It was during this time that Saint Leonard was named the patron saint of Mascali. On July 23, members of the Public Works Department Second Class Petty Officer Association along with a handful of junior Sailors donated their time to clean and paint railings in the Town of Mascali. The Sailors received a warm welcome from the local community. After the event, UT2 (SCW) Donald Taylor ac-
cepted a plaque of appreciation on behalf of the group which was presented to the Sailors for their time and effort. The next stop was a local veteran facility maintained and built for World War II veterans. En route to the facility, Sailors stopped to visit with a children’s summer camp where they led the children in singing the Star Spangled Banner. The kids greeted the Sailors and asked questions about the U.S. “They choreographed dances to songs and genuinely seemed excited to meet us. It was an immensely surprising and touching moment,” said CM2 David Mortenson. At the beachfront, Sailors swept and painted the railings and at the end of the day were rewarded with food and drinks by the beach. “It was such a rewarding experience. I hope it’s the first of many more COMRELs to come,” said Mortenson.
Sailors attached to the NAS Sigonella Public Works Department clean and paint as part of a community relations project in the town of Mascali, July 23. Mascali is approximately 30 kilometres northeast of Catania and was entirely rebuilt after its almost complete destruction by lava from nearby Mt. Etna in 1928. (Photo courtesy of Public Works Department)
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)
August 5, 2016
THE SIGNATURE
PAGE 5
All Hands Call with Adm. Howard
Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa, Adm. Michelle Howard poses a question to the audience during an all-hands call at the Naval Air Station Sigonella base theater, Aug. 1. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ramon Go/Released)
THE SIGNATURE
PAGE 6
Top 10 Dishes to Try in Sicily Story by http://food.ndtv.com/
The placid water buffalo is a part of an early, convoluted food link between India and Italy, which passes through Sicily. The dramatic Italian region of Campania, with Naples at its heart, has fashioned much of food history and lays its claims to developing everything from the pizza to gelato. It is also the center for mozzarella production, the soft, fresh curdlike cheese that is instantly recognized as "Italian" anywhere in the world. But the mozzarella has an Indian connection via Sicily and the Arab world that goes beyond the instantly recognizable caprese. The water buffalo, indigenous to India, whose milk is used to make the mozzarella, was introduced in Sicily by the Arabs in the 9th century AD. From here it travelled to Campania only with the advent of the Normans in the 10th century, and the rest as they say is history. A reading of history, of course, is essential to knowing about any cuisine. And even though the mozzarella is not part of traditional Sicilian cuisine at all, the Arab influence undoubtedly is intrinsic to it. The Arabs ruled Sicily from 827 to 902 AD and laid the foundation of much that we recognize today as "Sicilian food," which is quite different from what you find in other parts of Europe, particularly in the north. 10 Popular Sicilian Dishes From lemons and oranges that line the landscape of this island to its famous sweets, frozen ices, the cultivation of rice, and the use of spices such as cumin and saffron, the Arab influence can be seen in everything that makes Sicilian food one of the most delicious and distinctive in the world. In fact, pasta itself is supposed to have taken shape in Sicily first, before becoming an Italian staple. And food historians debate that it was the Arabs, who had already acquired the way to make vermicelli from the Chinese – and had left a few strands in India too, bang in the middle of their trade route – who introduced the pasta to Italy, via Sicily.
Arancini, are a Sicilian specialty. The deep-fried rice balls, are coated with breadcrumbs and filled with ragù (meat and tomato sauce), mozzarella, and peas or cheese, spinach, pistachios, mushrooms, prosciutto and mozzarella, ham, spinach and even squid ink. Arancino means "little orange" because it resembles a small orange. (Photo by http://therealitalianfood.com/)
The beautiful island, the biggest in the Mediterranean, is also one of its most fertile and bountiful with everything from pine nuts and cinnamon to citrus, melons, rice and more. All these go into some of the most flavorful dishes that you will encounter in Europe. 1. Arancini It is Italy's favorite street snack – those fried, and sometimes baked, balls of rice. Arancini is typically from Ragusa in Sicily. Bite into one and you could find anything from meat sauce to mozzarella and peas inside the crunchy exterior. As reported by Italianfood.about.com, arancini are one of the best-loved Sicilian snacks and street foods, and they have become increasingly popular throughout Italy and worldwide. There is considerable debate, however, between
"DISHES" continued on Page 12
August 5, 2016
August 5, 2016
THE SIGNATURE
PAGE 7
Future MCPON and Sailors Reenlist by mc2 Daniel Schumacher Naval Support Activity Naples Public Affairs
NAPLES, Italy (NNS) -- U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa Fleet Master Chief Steven Giordano and two Sailors reenlisted, July 28, at Naval Support Activity Naples, Italy. Giordano invited Information Systems Technician 1st Class Jacqueline Bozen, from Chicago; and Information Systems Technician 2nd Class Marquise Wisher, from Philadelphia, for the reenlistment ceremony led by Commander, U.S. 6th Fleet, Vice Adm. James G. Foggo III. "I am always honored to participate in a Sailor's reenlistment, but today is a true privilege," Foggo said. "Fleet Master Chief Giordano has dedicated his entire adult life to serving his country and has been wearing a Navy uniform since 1989. It is fitting that for his final reenlistment, [he] invited other CNECNA (Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa) Sailors to join him and commit to supporting the Constitution of the United States once more." Giordano, a native of Baltimore, enlisted in the Navy in 1989. He will continue his service in the Navy as the 14th Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) after current MCPON Mike Stevens retires Sept. 2.
"I am honored to stand beside the two great Sailors, raise our right hands together, and continue to have the opportunity to serve our great nation and our Navy," Giordano said. Bozen enlisted in the Navy in 2009, reenlisted for six years and plans to make the Navy a career for at least 20 years. Her next command will be Naval Special Warfare Group 1 Mobile Communication Detachment at Coronado, California. "I'm looking forward to the higher operational tempo there, where I'll be more involved with the command mission," Bozen said. Wisher enlisted in the Navy in 2012, also reenlisted for six years and will report to Arleigh Burkeclass guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109), his first sea command. "I'm good at my job and enjoy it," Wisher said. "Being deployed, seeing port visits, and living and working with your crew -- I think serving aboard a ship is something special most people won't get a chance at." U.S. 6th Fleet headquartered in Naples, Italy, conducts the full spectrum of joint and naval operations, often in concert with allied, joint, and interagency partners in order to advance U.S. national interests and security and stability in Europe and Africa.
Official file photo of Fleet Master Chief Steven S. Giordano. Chief of Naval Operations Adm. John M. Richardson announced, June 9, that Master Chief Giordano, will take charge from Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy Michael D. Stevens Sept. 2, during a change of office ceremony at the Washington Navy Yard. (U.S. Navy photo/Released)
USS Carney Aids in Rescue of 97 Migrants in Mediterranean Sea by mc3 Weston Jones U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet
MEDITERRANEAN SEA (NNS) -- The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Carney (DDG 64) aided in the rescue of 97 migrants adrift in the Mediterranean Sea, July 29. Carney provided aid for the migrants until the SOS Mediterranee ship MS Aquarius arrived and took the migrants to safety. QUOTE: "Today Team Carney aided in the rescue of 97 migrants while operating in the Mediterranean Sea. Seeing the plight of these desperate migrants and the danger they were in was humbling. As Sailors we make our living on the high seas. We were honored to help these 97 people to safety. My crew acted with the upmost professionalism and compassion and I couldn't be more proud of them." -Cmdr. Kenneth Pickard, commanding officer, USS Carney (DDG 64) QUICK FACTS: * 96 men and one woman were onboard the small craft. * SOS Mediterranee was founded in 2015 and is an independent European humanitarian association whose objective is to operate in different maritime routes and conduct sea rescue operations. * Members of Medecins Sans Frontieres (Doctors without Borders) embark with SOS Mediterranee and provide care until the refugees can be turned over to the proper authorities. * USS Carney (DDG 64) forward deployed to Rota, Spain, is currently attached to the USS Wasp (LHD-1) Amphibious Ready Group that is operating in U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations.
A visit, board, search and seizure team from the guided-missile destroyer USS Carney (DDG 64) approaches a migrant vessel in the Mediterranean Sea. Carney provided food and water to the migrants aboard the vessel before coordinating with a nearby merchant vessel to take them to safety. Carney is forward deployed to Rota, Spain, and is conducting a routine patrol in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations in support of U.S. national security interests in Europe. (U.S. navy photo by Chief Information Systems Technician Wesley R. Dickey/Released)
* U.S. 6th Fleet, headquartered in Naples, Italy, conducts the full spectrum of joint and naval operations, often in concert with allied, joint, and
interagency partners, in order to advance U.S. national interests and security and stability in Europe and Africa.
PAGE 8
THE SIGNATURE
Sailors and Marines attend the Commander, Task Force 67 change of command, Aug. 2. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ramon Go/Released)
"CTF-67" continued from Page 1 including the first United States Aircraft Carrier based strikes launched from the Mediterranean since 1999, and multi-national allied exercises including BALTOPS, DYNAMIC MANTA, and the Black Sea trio of BREEZE, SEA SHIELD, and SEA BREEZE. Ellis assumed command of Commander
Task Force 67 after serving as U.S. Pacific Fleet Headquarters Current Operations Officer through 2015. Previously, he served as Commanding Officer of the “Golden Swordsmen� of Patrol Squadron FOUR SEVEN from 2011-2013 and deployed to Sigonella and Djibouti. He graduated from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in 1993 with a Bachelor of Science in Physics and Philosophy.
Commander, U.S. 6th Fleet Vice Adm. James G. Foggo, III, gives a speech during the Commander, Task Force 67 change of command, Aug. 2. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ramon Go/Released)
August 5, 2016
August 5, 2016
THE SIGNATURE
PAGE 9
NAS Sigonella Security Hosts National Night Out By Nicole Ybarra NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – On Aug. 2, the Sigonella community came together for an evening of fun and education hosted by the NAS Sigonella Security Department as part of the 33rd annual National Night Out, a worldwide initiative aimed at crime and drug prevention. The festivities kicked off with a parade around Marinai Housing involving NASSIG Security forces, local carabinieri and first responders. The event continued with a free cookout, demonstrations and activities for children. National Night Out is designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness, generate support for and participation in, local anti-crime efforts, strengthen neighborhood spirit and police community partnerships, and send a message to criminals letting them know neighborhoods are organized and fighting back. MAC Joshua Raper, who helped organize this year’s event stated, "This is important for us, not only as representatives of the US, but for our communities to see and understand that we stand as one with our host nation law enforcement entities." National Night Out, which is sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch (NATW) and co-sponsored locally by the NASSIG Security Association, involves over 16,728 communities from all 50 states, U.S. territories, Canadian cities and military bases around the world.
NAS Sigonella celebrated National Night Out with a parade through Marinai Housing involving NAS Sigonella Security and its host nation counterparts. The event continued with a cookout, horse rides, activities and a demonstration by the Security Department's Military Working Dog handlers. (U.S. Navy photo by Nicole Ybarra/Released)
PAGE 10
THE SIGNATURE
August 5, 2016
August 5, 2016
THE SIGNATURE
PAGE 11
PAGE 12
THE SIGNATURE
August 5, 2016
"DISHES" continued from Page 6 Sicilians themselves, as to whether these golden fried rice balls should properly be called "arancini" (masculine) or "arancine" (feminine). In western Sicily, around Palermo and Agrigento they're usually called "arancine" and have a round shape. There, it is argued, that since the name derives from the Italian word "arancia" (meaning "orange," as in the round fruit that these rice balls resemble in shape and color, arancine meaning "little oranges"), then technically "arancine" is more correct. In eastern Sicily, meanwhile, particularly around Messina and Catania, arancino is the term more commonly used, and the arancini have a more pear-shaped or conical form, rounder at the bottom and pointed at the top. There, the reasoning is that the term derives from the name of the fruit in Sicilian dialect: arànciu. It's nearly impossible to say which is really "correct," since both arguments have some merit, though at this point "arancino" has become the more widely diffused name, particularly in English-speaking countries. Whichever shape or name you use, they are delicious and satisfying. The filling in this recipe is one of the most classic: a meat ragù, green peas and melty mozzarella, but there are endless other types of filling: pistachios, mushrooms, prosciutto and mozzarella, ham, spinach, etc. The rice is scented with saffron and the rice balls are rolled in breadcrumbs before frying them into fragrant croquettes.
Cannoli (Photo from blog.giallozafferano.it)
7. Parmigiana di Melanzane The eggplant parmesan, which many vegetarian eaters of Italian food resort to, has its origins in Sicilian food. But there is no parmesan in this dish (that cheese belongs to another region of Italy, after all, and was added as a substitute when immigrants moved abroad). Eggplant is sliced, fried, and layered with cheese and tomato. 8. Spaghetti ai Ricci Stick with seafood when you are in Sicily. Try the sea urchins in spaghetti. The flavor is salty and delicate. But this is an expensive dish. Sea urchins need careful handling, only the good meat needs to go in and it apparently takes more than 10 sea urchins for one portion of pasta. 9. Pasta con le Sarde Sardines are common and cheap on the other hand. They are common in pasta dishes. Get a bucatini with sardines, fennel, saffron, pine nuts, and raisins.
Polpo Bollito (Photo from blog.giallozafferano.it)
They can be eaten as an antipasto or snack, or even as a meal, when coupled with perhaps a salad or soup. 2. Polpo Bollito In the northern regions of Italy, you will find the bollito misto: Tough cuts of boiled and stewed beef served with mustard. But in Sicily, there is the much more delightful and fresh boiled octopus. You don't need sauces or seasoning for this and they do not accompany the dish traditionally. 3. Frutta Martorana This is one of the most common Sicilian traditions that you may have seen in pictures. Similar to the marzipan, almond paste is moulded into little bits of "fruits" which look absolutely real. The name literally means fruits of Martora. 4. Cassata The cassata has gone global. The real Cassata Siciliana is a sponge cake soaked in liquor; it is layered with ricotta cheese and covered in almond paste. There's some icing on top and it is studded with fruits and other sweet things. There's no ice cream and this is an incredibly sweet dessert. 5. Granita If you are looking for frozen pleasures instead, have a granita. It is just ground ice with sugar and fresh fruit. One of the best most refreshing summer coolers ever! 6. Cannoli The Sicilian fascination with desserts has links to its Arab past. Fried dough is an Arab tradition that is present in India too. The cannoli is a tube of fried dough filled with sweetened ricotta and topped with candied fruit, pistachios, or chocolate chips.
10. Pane e Pannelle This is again a street snack. Chickpeas are an Arab influence. And so are chickpea fritters – quite like the falafel. In Palermo, the panelle – or these fritters – are served between bread or pane.
August 5, 2016
THE SIGNATURE
PAGE 13
NAS Sigonella Named Region’s Energy Biggest Loser By YN2 Gabrielle Milly NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily –The Energy Biggest Loser (EBL) competition was inspired by the Navy's ongoing energy conservation initiative started in 2009 by Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV) Ray Mabus. The program, known as the Great Green Fleet, aims to reduce the Department of the Navy's consumption of energy, decrease its reliance on foreign sources of oil, and significantly increase its use of alternative energy. The EBL competition is a tool to help the Navy increase energy security. This is the third year that Navy Region Europe, Africa, Southwest Asia (EURAFSWA) has held the "Energy Biggest Loser" competition among its installations with NAS Sigonella garnering top honors for the second consecutive year. “This year’s win was a result of a community-wide effort,” said Cmdr. Deanna Carpenter, Public Works Department Head. NAS Sigonella was able to defend its title from 2015 by achieving a 15.6 percent drop in energy reduction compared with the previous year. According to Antonino Piluso, Installation Energy Manager, the reduction in energy consumption translates to huge cost savings. “Energy bills account for 28% of NAS Sigonella’s expenditures,” stated Piluso.
“It is important to switch off lights, computer monitors, coffee pots, and other small appliances when you leave your office. If you shut off your computer at the end of the day, the system will still install all of the updates and automatically restart in the morning,” said Piluso. NAS Sigonella won the 2015 EBL competition and received $70,000 to be used for base improvements. The community voted on a variety of quality of life enhancements and ultimately decided on additions to the NAS 1 Memorial Park. NAS Sigonella has worked hard to instill a culture of conservation on base. And with additional energy efficiency projects on the horizon, such as the installation of methane gas powered boilers on NAS 2, energy savings are likely to continue beyond the month of July. “The installation of the new boilers will allow us to cut related fuel costs in half as the newer generation model is much more energy efficient. It’s been 20-30 years since the boilers have been replaced,” said Piluso. NAS Sigonella has been working yearround to cut down on energy usage in their workplaces and buildings and this win is a result of an all-of-community effort. “We all have a part to play in reducing overall energy usage, not just in the month of July, but each and every day,” said Carpenter.
THE SIGNATURE
PAGE 14
All Hands News Bulletin:
August 5, 2016
do not receive college credit for taking the class. We MUST have your SF182 requesting funding NLT 10 Aug 2016. The form can be requested from your command, CTC, or the Navy College Office. The deadline to sign up for the class will be August 10th and the class will begin on August 29th and run for 8 weeks. There are 3 separate opportunities for you to take the class. The class offerings are as follows:
Gateway to Italian Courses Central Texas College 29 Aug - 21 Oct 2016 Patrizia Tedesco 624-4306 sigonella@europe.ctcd.edu All eligible Navy Active Duty and DoN civilians stationed in Sigonella now have an opportunity to enroll through Central Texas College and learn the Italian language through the Gateway to Italian program. The greatest part of this program, aside from learning Italian, is that it's free. The Navy's Center for Language, Regional Expertise and Culture (CLREC) pays for this 8 week class. The class is being offered through Central Texas College, however, you do not have to be enrolled in CTC to take the class and you
Mon/Wed MORNING class from 0900-1130
(NAS 1 Bldg.318)
M/T/W/TH LUNCH class from 1145-1300
(NAS 1 Bldg.318)
Mon/Wed EVENING class from 1630-1900
(NAS 2 Public Works training room)
If you would like to receive more information about the Gateway to Italian classes, please contact the CTC Site Coordinator at DSN 624-4306 or Comm. 095-56-4306.
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 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
Ristorante Bella Etna
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 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: July 25 - Aug. 1, 2016
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. - 1:30 p.m. Weekend / Holiday: 11 a.m. -1 p.m.
Dinner: $4.85 Mon - Fri: 4 - 6 p.m. Weekend / Holiday: 4-6 p.m.
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 5, 2016
THE SIGNATURE
PAGE 15
PAGE 16
NEX Gives Back to Students with Its A-OK Student Reward Program By Kristine Sturkie NEXCOM Public Affairs
The Navy Exchange Service Command (NEXCOM) has been offering students a chance to help pay for college through its A-OK Student Reward Program since 1997. The A-OK Student Reward Program offers all qualified students the chance to participate in a quarterly drawing for monetary awards of $2,500, $1,500, $1,000 or $500 for a total of $5,500 per quarter. The next drawing will be held at the end of August 2016. Eligible full-time students with a B-grade point average equivalent or better, as determined by their school system, may enter the drawing. Homeschooled students can also qualify with acknowledgement that the student has a “B” average or equivalent record of accomplishment. Eligible students include dependent children of active duty military members, reservists and military retirees enrolled in 1st through 12th grade. Dependent children without an individual Dependent Identification Card must be accompanied by their sponsor to submit their entry. Each student may enter only once each grading period and must re-enter with each qualifying report card. To enter the drawing, stop by any NEX with a current report card or progress report and have an NEX associate verify the eligibility. Then fill out an entry card and obtain an A-OK ID which entitles the student to19 discount coupons for NEX products and services. Along with the award, each winner will receive a lapel pin, certificate and medallion ribbon “In Honor of Academic Excellence.” Since the program’s inception, NEXCOM has awarded over $640,000 to students with the help of its generous vendor partners. About NEXCOM The Navy Exchange Service Command (NEXCOM) oversees 100 Navy Exchange facilities and nearly 300 stores worldwide; 39 Navy Lodges; ship stores; Uniform Program Management Office; the Navy Clothing Textile and Research Facility and the Telecommunications Program Office. NEXCOM’s mission is to provide authorized customers quality goods and services at a savings and to support quality of life programs for active duty military, retirees, reservists and their families. NEXs and Navy Lodges operate primarily as a non-appropriated fund (NAF) business instrumentality. NEX revenues generated are used to support Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) programs. In FY12, $2.8 billion in sales were generated with $45.9 million in dividends provided to Navy MWR programs.
THE SIGNATURE
August 5, 2016
August 5, 2016
THE SIGNATURE
GAMEZONE Old West 1
RANCH RATTLESNAKE RIFLE SADDLE SALOON SHERIFF SHOPKEEPER SITTING BULL STAGECOACH TELEGRAPH TRACKER TRAIL TRAIN UNDERTAKER WATER TANK WELL
MEDIUM
GOLD PANNING GRAZE HIRED GUN HOGS HOMESTEAD HOTEL JUDGE LARIAT LAWMAN LIVESTOCK MINER OUTLAW GANG PISTOL PLOW HORSE POSSE RAILROAD
EASY
BANKER BARKEEP BILLY THE KID BOOT HILL BRAND CAMPFIRE CATTLE DRIVE CHAPARRAL COAL CORRAL COWBOY DOC HOLLIDAY FARRIER FORT FURS GOLD MINE
DIFFICULT
Find and circle all of the words that are hidden in the grid. The remaining 25 letters spell a George Eliot quotation.
PAGE 17
PAGE 18
THE SIGNATURE
(Photo courtesy of NCTS Sicily)
Knowledge is Power for NCTS Sigonella Sailors By MC2 Rebecca Sunderland NCTS Sicily Public Affairs
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily (NNS) -- In today’s world of advancing technology moves can be made without ever putting boots on ground. Sailors at Naval Computer and Telecommunications Station (NCTS) Sicily work around the clock to ensure missions in their theatre of operations have everything necessary to be successful. “The warfighting that we’re seeing today is not the same as it was in the industrial age or the agricultural age,” said NCTS’s Executive Officer Lt. Cmdr. Daniel Berger. Cyber, psychological and electronic warfare come together in the field of information warfare and each category plays an important role in gathering and safeguarding information. “Knowledge is power. So whoever has it controls it,” said Information Systems Technician First Class Darren Cornelison. With victory going to the team with the best kept secret, surveillance and intelligence gathering plays a big role in information warfare but it’s only a part of the overall objective according to Berger. “It’s not simplistic in its form. When it comes to information warfare we have multiple components that make up that area. From the collection of the information, to the transport, to the processing of it, to where it’s usable, to the dissemination, then to the actual user-the commander, the Intel people or
weapons systems or sensors that utilize that in today’s warfighting environment,” said Berger. With so many aspects to information warfare, the Navy created the Information Warfare Device in 2009 for officers and enlisted, to better equip their information ratings with knowledge of what their counterparts do. Electronics Technician Second Class Baltazar Gomez is studying to earn his pin. “There is stuff that you will already know from your day-to-day job but there is so much more that I had to learn. It really teaches you what everyone else is contributing to the overall mission,” said Gomez. The program also fosters a greater appreciation for teamwork according to Cornelison. “The basis for the qualification is the greater understanding of the piece that everybody else plays in the warfighting game. Too many people have an idea that ‘without us you couldn’t do this.’ This is about humbling everyone, and reminding us that everyone’s part is important,” said Cornelison. Earning the warfare device takes focus and dedication and Berger hopes every Sailor will accept the challenge to better themselves in their career. “It’s a very exciting time to do what we do because you’re constantly evolving. By the time that we’ve already nailed down a specific way on how to deal with an issue there’s been some new avenue that the enemy has been able to adapt and overcome it. And it’s our job to be one step ahead.”
August 5, 2016
August 5, 2016
THE SIGNATURE
PAGE 19
PAGE 20
THE SIGNATURE
August 5, 2016