The Signature | September 7, 2018

Is Your Car Safe?

Vehicle Recall Safety PAGE 5

Festivals This Weekend!

In Raddusa and Ognina

On the Horizon: Foggo's Five Focus Areas

PAGE 6

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SEPTEMBER 7, 2018

N A S SIG O N E L L A

Vol. 35 No. 33

Defense Attaché Makes First Visit From Rome

SIGONELLA, Sicily (September 4, 2018) Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella Commanding Officer Capt. Brent Trickel, left, welcomes Defense and Naval Attaché Capt. Scott Bunnay from the U.S. Embassy in Rome, Italy. NAS Sigonella is an operational ashore base that enables U.S., allied, and partner nation forces to be where they are needed and when they are needed to ensure security and stability in Europe, Africa, and Southwest Asia. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Christopher Gordon)

By Janine Scianna NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

Capt. Scott Bunnay, the newest appointed Defense and Naval Attaché assigned to the U.S. Embassy in Rome, Italy, has been busy learning his new role and visiting the constituent installations he now supports. Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella hosted Bunnay on September 4th and 5th.

The word “attaché” might seem like a foreign concept as well as a foreign word to many. French for the word “attached,” in diplomacy, an attaché is a person on the staff of an ambassador who has a specialized area of responsibility.

In the case of Capt. Bunnay, he provides advice on military matters to the U.S. Ambassador to Italy as well as representing the Secretary of Defense, Secretary of the Navy, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and the U.S. military services in Italy. Another critical function of the attaché’s role is developing and nurturing military-to-military relationships with the Italian Armed Forces.

In Italy, there are seven total attachés—one for each service branch plus several other assistants. Attachés are located in U.S. Embassies around the world, but countries with a smaller military footprint, like many African nations, may only have one attaché on staff.

Although there is no such thing as a “typical day” in the life of an attaché, much of Bunnay’s time is spent meeting with representatives of the Italian Ministry of Defense, taking phone calls from Pentagon officials, and supporting the larger Department of Defense community at the Embassy, including spouses and families.

Since Bunnay started his new role in mid-June, he is getting to know the full extent of the U.S. military presence in Italy, and he visited NAS Sigonella’s bases and facilities to better understand and represent local military issues at the Embassy level.

Bunnay said of his whirlwind tour, “It is always important to visit the places you are supporting. It was also nice to meet many local nationals to further my relationship with the host country.”

Bunnay is no stranger to air operations or installation management. In his 27-year naval aviation career, he has served as the commanding officer of both an air squadron (VAQ-132 Growler squadron) and an installation (Naval Air Station Meridian).

Bunnay has been interested in becoming an attaché since he was stationed in Vicenza in 1999 supporting Operation ALLIED FORCE during the Kosovo War. Despite his aviation background, most Defense attachés are prior Foreign Area Officers, who are regionally focused experts in political-mil-

itary operations.

While the process to become a Defense attaché continues to be highly competitive, it recently has become more transparent, with an open application process that any eligible officer can apply to. Once he was selected, Bunnay completed six months of intensive language training to be able to effectively communicate with his Italian colleagues.

A typical tour length for a Defense attaché is three years, so Capt. Bunnay has plenty of time to make an impact in Italy. He is constantly looking to find ways to collaborate with the host country, as well as collaborating with the larger attaché community in Rome—considering the large number of international diplomats who are there.

When asked about what he most looks forward to in his new role, Bunnay said it was supporting the efforts of service members and military operations in Italy, as well as looking for creative ways to make connections across organizations and countries to solve problems.

After wrapping up his tour of NAS Sigonella, Bunnay remarked “As a former base commanding officer myself, I was impressed at how well NAS Sigonella operates. The community has been so welcoming and friendly toward me, and I look forward to my next visit.”

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SEPTEMBER 7, 2018

Direct Line

Melissa Grady, President, All Officers’ Spouses’ Club Ciao Sigonella, My name is Melissa Grady, and I am the current president of the All Officers' Spouses' Club (AOSC). The AOSC is a base-sponsored Non-Federal Entity (NFE) private organization, with the primary objective to raise money for scholarship funds awarded to graduating high school seniors. The purpose of our organization is to foster friendships and hospitality among our members, as well as assist in and undertake charitable and cultural projects benefiting the Sigonella community on a non-profit basis.

Our club is comprised of a uniquely diverse group of men and women.

Membership is open to active duty, reservist, and retired officers representing all service branches as well as their spouses. In addition, DoDEA teachers and administrators, GS-7 civilians and above, and NATO officers and their spouses are eligible for membership.

Promoting community involvement

such as volunteerism and creating social connections continue to be the cornerstones of our organization.

The AOSC provides philanthropic support by funding scholarships for local high school seniors, volunteer opportunities for active duty members and high school students, and community service projects in support of our local bases. Last year alone, our organization was able to provide three scholarships in the amounts of $1500, $1000, and $500 to local high school students. Each of those recipients also received a $100 Amazon gift card. In addition, we also awarded Apple Chromebooks to two additional students. When they say “it takes a village,” it indeed does! Our efforts would not have been possible without the help of our fabulous members, the Sigonella community, the Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella and Sigonella Naval Hospital wardrooms, and the Navy Exchange.

Though our primary focus is our scholarship fund, our organization also consistently provides community service support. We've partnered with Ground Electronics, the NAS Sigonella Public Works Department, the USO, and the library in many community efforts. These include beautifying the school sign, providing meals to our unaccompanied service members, providing rotator snacks for new families arriving, conducting a children's book drive, and assisting in a summer story time program for preschool-aged children. This year will be no different.

There will be a multitude of projects and social events, and we can't wait to partner with these organizations again for the greater good of our community.

The AOSC continues to look to the past and allow the history of the organization to inspire us, while also looking to the future with the hope of keeping the legacy of charity, volunteerism, and friendship. We will also continue

a service that encompasses teamwork and hospitality. Thank you, Sigonella community and AOSC members for your continued support. High school seniors, dream big. In the wise words of Oprah Winfrey, "Follow your passion; it will lead you to your purpose."

We're looking forward to another bustling year. See you around the base!

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

gestion Box is NOT a forum for mean-spirited attacks.

Anonymous comments will be published only if they benefit the greater community at large. * If you submit a "BZ" about a specific person or department, PLEASE PROVIDE YOUR NAME in order to ensure comment authenticity and therefore publicly recognize employees or organizations. ** The Commanding Officer will ensure a response to all signed comments/suggestions and the vast majority of anonymous ones but reserves the right to disregard

those comments/suggestions disinterested in the spirit of the program!

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

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

Interactive Customer Evaluation Comment Regarding MVRO and Road Taxes:

Recently I have received some comments about the Motor Vehicle Registration Office (MVRO) not notifying customers when they owe dues for road taxes. Allow me to clarify some procedures.

Response:

Ultimately, it is the responsibility of the member to routinely check for road tax and vehicle documentation due dates (registration, insurance, and safety check) to maintain legal compliance and to ensure that their tax free fuel privileges remain intact.

However, it is the policy of MVRO to notify customers whenever they have pending charges or deadlines coming up concerning their registered vehicles.

Notifications are sent when the following items are set to expire soon: insurance, registration, and road taxes. So long as you provide a valid email address, you will be notified prior to lapses in those items. To verify that MVRO has your correct email on file please email nassigmvro@eu.navy.mil or call 624-5275.

MVRO has seen expired documents not being updated on time, causing temporary suspension of tax free fuel privileges that could further lead to Host Nation legal issues such as hefty fines and/or impoundment of vehicles due to expired registration and insurance. As a reminder, road taxes are required to be paid on all secondary vehicles. Tax free fuel privileges are authorized once all vehicle and driver documentation are up-to-date, this also includes stateside driver licenses. Some states have an automatic renewal while serving overseas in the military; however, while we do check state DMV requirements, members should be aware of these expirations and take steps in renewing approaching expirations and provide documentation to MVRO with extensions and renewals to update records.

Comment Regarding MVRO and Denationalization:

I am currently in the second step of getting an Italian vehicle denationalized. All of the paperwork had been provided to MVRO and then given to the original owners of the car to take to Motta to have it completed. I was told that I could take the car back to my house on Marinai and park it until the third step, which is to register the car for use on base. Upon getting to the Marinai gate, I was told I could not bring the car back to my house and park it because I was not the owner of the car yet, and had no registration.

In my opinion, this whole process needs to be fixed. This three-step process could be two steps. Given, I don't know how long it takes to do a vehicle report, but it seems to me that during the course of completing my first step, the vehicle report was done right then and there. I could have gotten the car inspected, the vehicle report done by MVRO, and the paperwork that the original owners have to take to Motta all done in one shot.

Re: storage of the vehicle while waiting for the third and final appointment: during the second step, I suggest that MVRO issue the buyer some sort of paperwork that allows a Marinai resident to temporarily park the car at their house instead of out in front of the gate, where the chances of it being broken into are greater. I understand that processes are just those, and that we choose to buy a car from a local Italian, but this whole thing can be a lot easier in my opinion.

In short, make the first and second steps all one step/one appointment. Then MVRO needs to issue some sort of paperwork allowing the buyer to park the car at their residence on Marinai (and not out on the street outside the gate).

Then step three: allow the vehicle to be driven to MVRO to get the AFI tags issued.

Todd Carrico

Response:

Mr. Carrico, Thank you for explaining your concerns regarding the denationalization process and suggestions for its improvement. The process to denationalize a car is certainly a lengthy and complicated one. You are correct in saying that a process is just that, a process. We cannot alter this process to combine steps and make the denationalizing a car procedure shorter because there is a mandatory waiting period required by Italian Law Enforcement to ensure that the car has not been stolen. The waiting period allows for a delay in processing of a stolen car report and is therefore necessary.

I understand your frustration in not being able to bring the car onto Marinai, but this regulation is essential and cannot be changed. Allowing any unauthorized vehicle to enter the base, no matter who the driver is, would expose the community to a security risk. Rest assured that there is minimal risk of a car being broken in to or vandalized while parked outside of the gate due to the presence of Security personnel 24/7.

As a reminder to other readers, Denationalization of a local national vehicle is a three-step process that ensures that proper checks are conducted and the removal from the Italian DMV to comply with local Customs/Questura procedures. The process takes a minimum of 5 days to complete.

1) AFI member will bring the valid Italian Registration and a copy of the title of the vehicle. MVRO will then conduct the first police check and if the check is good, will schedule the second appointment for two days later.

2) Member will need to sponsor the seller on base with the vehicle being purchased (with current insurance)to have a safety inspection conducted; 2nd police check will be conducted; seller will be given an authorization letter to remove the vehicle from the Italian registration system; final MVRO appointment will be scheduled two days later

"ICE" continued on Page 3

SEPTEMBER 7, 2018

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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 CMDCM Nancy Estrada EDITORIAL Public Affairs Officer Lt. Andriana Genualdi andriana.genualdi@eu.navy.mil Assistant Public Affairs Officer Janine Scianna janine.scianna@eu.navy.mil Community Relations Officer Dott. Alberto Lunetta alberto.lunetta.it@eu.navy.mil Editor MCC Jessica Vargas Jessica.Vargas@eu.navy.mil PAO Staff Writer \ Photographer MC2 Christopher Gordon Christopher.Gordon@eu.navy.mil CONTACT US Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily thesig@eu.navy.mil DSN 624-5440; 095-86-5440 PSC 812 Box 7, FPO, AE 09627-0001 PUBLISHER Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity Capodichino (Naples), Italy stampagenerale@tin.it Tel. 081-568-7884 Fax 081-568-7887

"ICE" continued from Page 2 3) Assuming the seller has removed the vehicle from the Italian DMV and the AFI member has provided all necessary documentation, the new AFI owner will register the vehicle with the MVRO and be issued plates and a base pass.

Thank you for bearing with us on this lengthy process and I appreciate your attempt to make the process less laborious for others. For any future questions, please feel free to contact MVRO at 624-5275 or by email at nassigmvro@eu.navy.mil.

Comment Regarding AFN Radio/TV Programming:

We are very upset with AFN programing here. AFN radio is broadcast in the NEX, Commissary, and gym. While we were there with our family during the day, we were listening to very vulgar and inappropriate rap music. Another day, when I arrived home with my daughter in the middle of the afternoon, a sexually explicit movie was playing on TV. I do not believe that a movie with sexually explicit content should be broadcast during the daytime. It was bad enough at home, but then it was also playing in the family fitness room at the NAS I gym which I feel is totally inappropriate.

This is a family base and programming should reflect that by being appropriate for all ages. AFN should offer a variety of appropriate family friendly shows and music without inap-

propriate sexual content and language. Television and radio programing should reflect our values and morals, the ones we would want to instill in our children. Those who chose to watch and listen to other content can download and listen or watch it on their own portable devices. With the limited programing offered, surely we can do better.

Response:

Thank you for voicing your concerns regarding AFN programming. AFN provides overseas DoD personnel and their families the same type of entertainment programming as their fellow citizens in the United States. DoD policy is that the programming shall not be subject to censorship, so AFN must follow suit. Similarly, local commanders or other authorities are not permitted to censor, restrict, or ban the playing of specific songs just because they don’t like the lyrics. However, now that school is back in session, our local AFN radio station has reinstituted its policy of restricting certain songs from playing during morning school commute times (0630 to 0800).

AFN television also doesn’t censor any programming content, so if the perceived offensive language or subject matter is part of the program as produced and aired in the United

"ICE" continued on Page 15

This civilian enterprise (CE) newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services overseas.

Contents of The Signature are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense (DoD), or the U.S. Navy.

The appearance of advertising in this newspaper, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the DoD or Stampa Generale S.r.l., of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user or patron.

A confirmed violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected.

The Signature is published weekly by Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity, Capodichino (Naples), Italy.

Tel. 081-568-7884. Fax 081-568-7887.

E-mail: stampagenerale@tin.it Editorial submissions are welcomed from all Naval Air Station Sigonella departments, divisions and tenant commands.

Editorial submissions should be sent to the Public Affairs Office via thesig@eu.navy.mil, guard mail stop #68 or hand-delivered to our office no later than the close of business on the Friday preceeding the expected publication date.

All articles submitted by non-staff members will be considered contributing writers.

The Signature will not publish any anonymous articles. All advertisements in this publication are the property of Stampa Generale S.r.l.

Any reproduction of advertisements in The Signature is unauthorized without the written consent of the publisher.

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SEPTEMBER 7, 2018

Making Wireless Devices, Electronics Work in Italy

By Navy and Marine Corps Spectrum Office Europe (NMCSO EUR)

In today’s society, the use of wireless devices for work and personal use is both ubiquitous and essential. When it comes to use of personal electronic equipment in Europe, the primary concern of new arrivals is the difference in the electrical output (220 vs 110 volts) from the wall socket or whether the cell phone they bought in the U.S. will work in Europe.

Do you ever wonder why the Navy Exchange in Sigonella does not sell some of the items readily available in the U.S. or from online retailers? In foreign countries, just like in the U.S., the radio frequency spectrum is a finite natural resource which is divided into different frequency bands designated for very specific purposes such as wireless internet and cellular telephones. Additionally, these bands are split between government and non-government users, or shared by both. Each nation controls the use of the spectrum within their territorial limits and may allocate the spectrum differently from their neighbors in Europe and from the U.S. This often means that commercially procured U.S. items may not be authorized for use in a foreign country because they could cause interference to host nation systems.

So how does this impact Sigonella citizens? For starters, many of the everyday items you use in your home such as the cordless handset for your house phone, radio-controlled toys, or wireless baby monitors, speakers, and microphones may not operate in the frequency ranges established by the Italian Government and the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) regulations.

The ITU is a State Department “Treaty in Effect” between the Host Nation and the U.S.A., which means Italian spectrum management regulations are enforceable on U.S.

entities, to include the U.S. military and agencies and personnel contracted to provide services to the U.S. military. So if your personal electronic device is found to be causing interference, whether on base or off, you can be directed to turn it off and not use it again for the remainder of your time here in Europe. Depending on the situation, monetary fines and confiscation of the electronic items by Italian law enforcement personnel are also possibilities.

In short, all wireless capable devices must be marked with the symbol “CE” or "Conformité Européene" (which can be found on the device and packaging) and operate in accordance with the table of allocations for Italy.

If you have questions or would like to learn more, contact the NAS Sigonella N6 office at 6246623, Mr. Matthew Arnold, NAS Sigonella Installation Spectrum Manager (ISM), at 624-2269, or the Navy and Marine Corps Spectrum Office Europe at 6262005/3738/5354.

DAKAR, Senegal (Nov. 5, 2007) - Boatswain's Mate 1st Class Jay Collette directs line handlers from the flight deck of USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43) during the Africa Partnership Station (APS) arrival in Dakar, Senegal. APS aims to work cooperatively with U.S. and international partners, consisting of European and African members such as the United Kingdom, Spain, France, Germany, Ghana and Cameroon, in an international effort to support African coastal nations with maritime safety and security. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Elizabeth Merriam/released)

SEPTEMBER 7, 2018

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Vehicle Recall Safety From CarInsuranceZoom.org and the National Safety Council

An open recall on your vehicle could potentially put you and your family in danger.

Carfax recently discovered that millions of drivers might be at risk every time they get behind the wheel due to ignored recall notices.

This is an important safety issue for all drivers, and it should be taken very seriously. Otherwise, some dangerous situations could result, costing lives and millions of dollars of potential damage.

Recall notifications are generally sent through regular mail, or verified email, and warn of safety defects. About 25% of all vehicles on the road (more than 60 million) have open recalls issued for their repair yet go unfixed due to owner negligence.

Problems arise when a car owner either does not receive the recall notice or chooses to ignore it. Experts recommend dealing with a recall notice immediately. The manufacturer should cover the cost of the repair and a rental vehicle if the repair takes more than a few hours. If parts need to be ordered, the process could take as long as a week, although that would be very uncommon.

In some situations, if the car is more than

10 years old, the owner may be responsible for paying for the repairs. Typically, this is not costly unless it involves specific parts of the engine or parts of the vehicle that are hard to reach. In those situations, the cost of labor could become very expensive and a repair done at the dealership may be significantly more expensive than other options. You may wish to have the car repaired by an independent mechanic.

Keep on top of recall issues easily by visiting the “Check to Protect” website at checktoprotect.org and entering your vehicle identification number (VIN). You can also find out recall statuses for your vehicles by visiting the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (www.nhtsa.gov). The 17-digit VIN can be found in the lower left corner of a car's windshield, on the inside of the driver-side door, on a car's registration card and possibly on insurance documents.

Remember, getting a recalled vehicle repaired is free of charge, but the onus is on the owner to regularly check for recall notices.

Don’t fall victim to some of the deadly defects that have occurred over recent years—Check to Protect!

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Wheat Festival in Raddusa This Weekend

SEPTEMBER 7, 2018

Sigonella Marines Recognized at Furci Siculo Volunteer Award Ceremony

By Alberto Lunetta NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

The amazing annual Festa del Grano (wheat festival) returns to Raddusa this weekend! Held on September 8th and 9th, this traditional folklore festival celebrating the Sicilian rural heritage will take you back to a time when wheat separation was not done by machines.

In the 1950s, Sicilian farmers performed the wheat pisatura (or threshing) with horses. In this tradition, they first stockpiled the wheat into a circular space called aia. Then, one farmer would place himself at the center of the aia and had two horses run on the wheat in circles, which would separate the wheat grains from their stalks under the pressure of the horses’ hooves.

Next, the spagghiata would be performed. In this method, the grains are thrown upward causing the heavier wheat seeds to return to the ground while the chaff (the finer outer portion of the seed) is carried away by the wind.

This old-fashioned threshing tradition, which is one of the festival’s highlights, will come alive with a freshly-baked bread tasting on Sunday (Sept. 9) at 5 p.m. in piazza Milite Ignoto, a square located in the town’s historic heart. Following the pisatura, local bakers will make their bread the “old-fashioned” way during the “mpastata do pani” event that will be performed on Sunday, Sept. 9 at 7 p.m.

Another highlight of the festival are the extensive booths offering free tastings of wine and dishes made using local produce. Local delicacies will be offered ,such as pane condito (freshly baked bread dressed with olive oil, salt, chili peppers and oregano) on Sep. 8 at 1230 p.m.; tastings of cuccìa (soup prepared with whole hard grain, legumes and dressed with spices) on Sept. 9 at 8:30 p.m.; and tastings of pasta of San Giuseppe (egg tagliatelle and ditaloni pasta) cooked in a soup of legumes (bean, chickpeas, lentils, spices and wild vegetables) on Sept. 8 at 8:30 p.m. Festivalgoers will also have the chance to sample more local food specialties that will be available at the putie (local shops and small drugstores) that will be open in the city’s historic center.

Visitors can also taste frittate votive (vegetable omelets flavored with cinnamon); cardi panati (breaded thistles); carciofini inceneriti (barbecued artichoke hearts dressed with mint, garlic, olive oil, and parsley); coniglio selvatico alla cacciatora (rabbit marinated with red wine, onions, carrots, and spices and cooked slowly in tomato sauce with potatoes); pasta con la mollica (egg pasta dressed with breadcrumbs and wild fennel); caper salads and minnulato (wafer covered by amaretto cream).

The Grano festival will also feature spectacular folklore parades featuring period costumes, Sicilian carts, and folklore shows which will be held on Saturday at 6 p.m. and Sunday at 10:30 a.m., making their way through the streets of the historic center. Local military and civilian authorities traditionally attend the parade.

Make sure to see the “Bersaglieri” Italian Army sharpshooters’ “running band” performance to be held on Saturday at 9 a.m. that will be followed half an hour later by the ribbon cutting ceremony of a World Wars I and II memorabilia exhibit in the historic heart of the town. Live music, kicking off every night around 10 p.m., will also entertain festival visitors.

Raddusa is fairly easy to reach. Exit Agira on the CataniaPalermo highway (A-19).

For more information, detailed festival schedules or trips to the local historic sites visit https://www.facebook.com/festadelgranoraddusa/

Ognina Virgin Mary Festival Tomorrow in Catania

By Alberto Lunetta NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

It’s that time of the year again! The Ognina fishermen’s neighborhood in Catania is preparing to pay homage to the beloved

"ITALIAN NEWS" continued on Page 14

FURCI SICULO, Sicily - Furci Siculo Mayor Matteo Francilia, far left, congratulates NAS Sigonella Marines as they accept a volunteer community relations award on August 18. They were recognized for a volunteer project that took place in early August in the coastal village of Furci Siculo (province of Messina) where they worked with local volunteers to clean up the town’s beach to help mayor Matteo Francilia raise environmental awareness. During the event, the town’s band performed military band and jazz music in honor of the U.S. military guests. (Photo by Andrea Rifatto)

SEPTEMBER 7, 2018

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MCPON Smith Pinned Aboard USS Constitution

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Casey Scoular USS Constitution Public Affairs

BOSTON (NNS) -- Russell Smith, the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy, was pinned to MCPON, Aug. 31, during USS Constitution's underway, which concluded this year's Chief Petty Officer Heritage Weeks.

"To be honest, I can't think of a better place to be pinned," Smith said. "I have a long history with USS Constitution; I'm an honorary crew member.

Constitution was the place where I reenlisted the last time. Where I have had so many fun experiences with chiefs and chief selectees."

Chief of Naval Operations Adm. John Richardson announced Smith as the 15th MCPON Aug. 29.

Smith is the first MCPON in the Navy's history to be pinned aboard USS Constitution.

He was pinned by chief petty officer selectees Legalman 1st Class Melissa Whitaker and Damage Controlman 1st Class Ryan Reffitt. "To have two chief selectees pin me who represent the promise and the hope of the mess that I get to very proudly represent, nothing can top that," Smith said.

After the pinning, Smith discussed two of his goals as the MCPON. "One, is to provide transparency and opportunity for everyone that serves in our Navy so that all of us as Sailors recognize that whatever we choose to be, however we choose to apply our talents, is going to improve our U.S. Navy," Smith said.

His second goal is to ensure the Navy is ready for an era of great power competition. "There's a storm on the horizon and we have a job in the chief 's mess to prepare our Sailors to face those challenges. It's going to take a lot of hard work to get there."

Constitution, America's Ship of State, actively defended sea lanes against global threats from 1797-

BOSTON (Aug. 31, 2018) Force Master Chief Petty Officer Kevin Goodrich and chief petty officer selectees pin collar devices on the 15th Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) Russell Smith during the USS Constitution CPO Heritage Week. Chief of Naval Operations Adm. John Richardson announced Smith the MCPON Aug. 29. As the Navy's 15th MCPON, Smith will serve as the senior-ranking enlisted leader and advisor to the CNO. (U.S Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Sarah Villegas/Released)

1855. The World's Oldest Commissioned Warship Afloat, Constitution embodies 220 years of maritime heritage and unwavering service to her country. Now a featured destination on Boston's Freedom Trail, Constitution and her crew of active duty U.S.

Navy Sailors offer community outreach and education about the ship's history and the importance of naval sea power to more than 500,000 visitors each year. Constitution is berthed at Pier One in Charlestown Navy Yard.

McCain’s Life Celebrated at Washington National Cathedral

By Terri Moon Cronk DoD News, Defense Media Activity

WASHINGTON --The nation bid farewell to Arizona Sen. John S. McCain III -- former Senate Armed Services Committee chairman, war hero and Vietnam prisoner of war -- in a patriotic and emotional service today at the Washington National Cathedral.

McCain lost his battle with brain cancer Aug. 25 at age 81. He will be laid to rest tomorrow at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland.

VIPs, from former presidents Barack Obama, George Bush and Bill Clinton, to Defense Secretary James N. Mattis and former defense secretaries Leon Panetta and Ash Carter, attended the funeral.

The military provided ceremonial support for the retired Navy captain from body

“McCain” continued on Page 14

The Arizona Army National Guard’s Military Funeral Honors Team carries the casket of Sen. John S. McCain III to State Capitol Building Rotunda in Phoenix, Aug. 29, 2018, for a memorial service. (Arizona Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Brian A. Barbour

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SEPTEMBER 7, 2018

Navy’s Senior Leader in Europe and Africa Highlights His Five Focus Areas in New Podcast

By U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet Public Affairs

In the first edition of his podcast, “On the Horizon: Navigating the European and African Theaters,” Adm. James G. Foggo III, commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa (CNE-CNA) and NATO Allied Joint Forces Command Naples outlined his five main focus areas in his area of responsibility or AOR. Foggo, a U.S. Naval Academy graduate who has spent 37 years on active duty, is the grandson and son of Canadian military officers who fought in World War I and World War II respectively. He conceived the podcast as a way to have an ongoing dialogue with U.S. and allied personnel. His first podcast focused on his five main focus areas, or “big rocks” as he calls them because of the “heavy lifting” they require: theater anti-submarine warfare (ASW), integrated air and missile defense (IAMD), forward-deployed naval forces, countering violent extremism, and enhancing African maritime security.

“These are all very challenging areas that we must be both subject matter experts and experts in execution at the strategic and tactical level,” said Foggo. “This theater goes from… the North Pole down to the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa, and from 45 [degrees] west in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean all the way out to the shores of the Crimea [Ukraine]. With the Arctic Ocean, the Atlantic Ocean, the Baltic Sea, the Mediterranean Sea and the Black Sea, and parts of the Indian Ocean as part of our theater of operations.”

Theater anti-submarine warfare Foggo said that in recent speeches and writings, he has emphasized that the United States is immersed in the “Fourth Battle of the Atlantic,” due to the increased activity of the Russian submarine force.

“The activity in submarine warfare has increased significantly since the first time I came back to Europe and since the Cold War. The Russian Federation navy has continued to pump rubles into the undersea domain, and they have a very effective submarine force,” said Foggo. “So theater ASW, big rock, is very important, and a combined arms game that involves all of us.”

Integrated air and missile defense Foggo then focused on U.S. anti-ballistic missile and IAMD capability, calling it “the best in the world,” and emphasizing its strategic importance and ongoing efforts to integrate with allies.

“We are defending against any kind of malign influence or launch of Iranian ballistic missiles, but it is a skillset that many navies in Europe would like to have their own indigenous capabil-

ity. And so when we do these demonstrations, we are not alone. Formidable Shield 17 was an incredible coalition of the willing, who came to the range in the Hebrides off of the coast of Scotland for a couple of weeks,” he said.

“And we did many exercises in which that flotilla was attacked by anti-ship cruise missiles, and allies and partners fired their own defensive weapons to protect a highvalue unit that was looking for the ballistic missile coming over the horizon. So tremendous success, part of what we do, and a big reason for having four guided-missile destroyers in Rota, Spain.”

Forward Deployed Naval Forces Mention of Rota led to discussion of Foggo’s third focus area, forward-deployed naval forces, which is closely related to ballistic missile defense and other important missions that require steady presence and rapid reaction.

“We couldn't do all the missions that we do without our forward-deployed forces in Europe and we couldn't do this without partners, either,” said Foggo. “When I talk about missile defense, let's not forget the incredible collaboration we get from our Romanian partners with our missile facility in Deveselu, and we are building another missile facility ashore, and it's like an Aegis-class ship ashore in Redzikowo in Poland.”

Foggo also mentioned ally and partner support to the FDNF forces. “Our FDNF forces afloat are in Rota, Spain. We wouldn't be there if it weren't for the incredible generosity and relationship we have from our host nation in Spain. And that is a port facility that is located in an area that gives us access to the North Atlantic, to the Baltic, to the Mediterranean.”

Countering violent extremism The steady presence provided by FDNF also contributes to Foggo’s fourth focus area, countering violent extremism.

“On countering violent extremism, this is something that we face every day. And we see attacks throughout the European theater and the African

theater, and even in our own country and Canada.

And we defend forward against that. That's the reason we're here. We want to take that fight to the violent extremists and keep them out of our own sovereign countries. And when I say that, I mean all the countries of NATO and the countries of North America that are part of NATO as well,” said Foggo.” The U.S. Navy continues to combat violent extremist organizations by dismantling networks of terrorist organizations in Syria, Iraq, Libya and elsewhere. We've done a lot of work off the Somali coast, and I think that's been very successful at tamping down piracy operations there to a bare minimum.”

For the final “rock,” Foggo emphasized the dramatic progress that has been made in recent years.

Enhancing African maritime security “On the final big rock, enhancing African maritime security, I've been doing this now in this theater since 2009 when I worked at Supreme Head-

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SEPTEMBER 7, 2018 "PODCAST" continued from Page 8 quarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE) headquarters, and I saw the Africa partnership stations stand up. I saw the Express series exercise,” he said. “It's our signature series of exercises around Africa. We do Cutlass Express in East Africa, we do Phoenix Express in North Africa, and we do Obangame Saharan Express in the Gulf of Guinea in West Africa, all with the intent of enhancing the quality of the maritime domain of our African partners. And since 2009 to present, their progress has been like night and day,” Foggo continued.

“We have gone from a time when the African partners either did not have the facilities or the capacity, in terms of ships, to go out and operate. They now have a robust series of facilities, radars that can coordinate and collaborate across territorial lines. They have an agreement, called the Yaounde Code of Conduct, in the Gulf of Guinea. And they have vessels that can get under way and challenge nefarious activity in the maritime and counter the pirate activities taking place, whether it be in the Gulf of Guinea, a new surge there, or maintain the status quo where we have beaten piracy on the east coast of Africa, off of Somalia.”

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Looking ahead In challenging times, the hard work put in by the warrior-experts who contribute to Foggo’s five focus area will see those efforts pay off in the form of increased security throughout the vast theater of operations, which covers 105 countries, 20 million square nautical miles of ocean that touches three continents, and a combined population of more than one billion people. The podcast will continue to be a way for Foggo to communicate to those under his command, and to the world, about his priorities.

"I'm very thankful for the opportunity to discuss what is going on in these two important theaters," said Foggo. "It is important to connect with great work being done in Europe and Africa by the U.S. Navy, our allies, and our partners."

The podcast “On the Horizon: Navigating the European and African Theaters” is available for download on SoundCloud and Stitcher.com.

U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/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.

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CNIC's Ready Navy Program: 'Get Ready, Get Set, Prepare!'

From Navy Installations Command Public Affairs Office

September is National Emergency Preparedness Month.

Commander, Navy Installations Command's (CNIC) Ready Navy Program educates Sailors and their families on how to be prepared when an emergency occurs. This year’s overall theme is “Disasters Happen. Prepare Now. Learn How.” Each week in September will have a focused theme: Make and Practice Your Plan; Learn Life Saving Skills; Check Your Insurance Coverage; and Save For an Emergency.

“National Preparedness Month reminds us all of the importance of being prepared in the event disaster strikes,” said Tim Alexander, CNIC Director of Operations. "For many of us, it is not a question of ‘if ’ but a matter of ‘when.’ Having a well thought-out plan to execute when the time comes significantly improves the chances of a positive outcome.”

Ready Navy is a proactive Navy-wide emergency preparedness, public awareness program. It is designed for the Navy community, to increase the ability of every person and family on or near Navy installations to meet today's challenges head on and plan and prepare for all types of hazards, ranging from hurricanes and earthquakes to terrorist attacks. By exploring the links on the Ready Navy site, you will: * Be informed of potential hazards and what to do before, during, and after an emergency, * Understand the steps to make an emergency plan that

"READY NAVY" continued on Page 15

DAKAR, Senegal (Nov. 5, 2007) - Boatswain's Mate 1st Class Jay Collette directs line handlers from the flight deck of USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43) during the Africa Partnership Station (APS) arrival in Dakar, Senegal. APS aims to work cooperatively with U.S. and international partners, consisting of European and African members such as the United Kingdom, Spain, France, Germany, Ghana and Cameroon, in an international effort to support African coastal nations with maritime safety and security. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Elizabeth Merriam/released)

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SEPTEMBER 7, 2018

NAS SIGONELLA COMMUNITY PAGE All Hands News Bulletin:

9/11 REMEMBRANCE CEREMONY & RUN INFORMATION AND VOLUNTEER CALL

Command, Department or Organization: MWR Fitness Date of Event: Tuesday, 11 SEPT 2018 Time of Event: Ceremony: Race starts 0800 / Volunteer show time: 0650 Location of Event: Outside NASSIG Admin by the fountain.

Point of Contact Name: Run / Volunteer Coordinator - Elizabeth Leonard, Fitness Director; Ceremony- Chief Agulto, Ceremony Coordinator Point of Contact Phone Number: 624-0504 Point of Contact Email Address: Run / Volunteer POC email Elizabeth.leonard@eu.navy.mil; Ceremony POC email: Arthurlevy.Agulto@eu.navy.mil Additional Information: This 5k run is dedicated in honor of all those who lost their lives during 9/11 and the fight for freedom afterwards. The ceremony will begin at NAS 2 Admin Building by the water fountain at 0800 and the run will commence afterwards. Please arrive on

time. Same day registration will not be accepted. Please register for run the run on Eventbrite at the following link: https://mwrsigonellafitness911run.eventbrite.com/ MWR is in need of volunteers for the 9/11 Remembrance Run. These volunteers will help hand out water to runners, cheer on participants and direct runners down the correct route. Please contact Elizabeth at 624-0504 or Elizabeth.leonard@eu.navy. mil for more information.

DODEA FACILITIES USE PROHIBITED DURING SCHOOL HOURS Command, Department or Organization: DoDEA Sigonella Point of Contact Name: Thomas Budny Point of Contact Phone Number: 624-4281 Point of Contact Email Address: Thomas.budny@eu.dodea.edu Additional Information: To all concerned, the school's track and field and other DoDEA facilities are not available for community use during school hours. All requests for use of school facilities regardless of date and time shall be requested by utilizing the Other User Agreement Form (OUF) and approved by the school. For further information please contact Mr. Thomas Budny at 624-4281.

Sigonella Religious Ministries Department Worship Services NAS 1 Tuesday Protestant Women of the Chapel: 0900-1100 Daily Mass: 1130-1200 Chapel Youth Middle School: 1445-1615 AWANA: 1645-1900 Wednesday Protestant Men of the Chapel: Daily Mass:

0600-0700 1130-1200

Thursday 1330-1500 Chapel Youth High School: Choir Practice: 1545-1700 The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults: 1800-2030 Friday Daily Mass: 1130-1200 First Friday Mass and Holy Hour: 1700-1830

Phone Numbers: NAS I 095-56-3975, NAS II 095-86-9049, Chaplain Duty: 335-831-4493, RP Duty: 335-786-1950.

Facebook page: www.facebook.com/Naval Air Station Sigonella Chapel

Saturday First Saturday Rosary and Mass:

1100-1200

Sunday Catholic Mass: 0900-1000 Catholic Religious Education: 1045-1200 1100-1200 Protestant Service: Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints: 1330-1600

NAS 2 Tuesday AA: 1730-1830 Wednesday Protestant Women of the Chapel: 1830-2100 Thursday Daily Mass:

1130-1200

Weekly Traffic Report: August 27 - September 3, 2018

As a reminder to everyone: There are no PTUs allowed at the Galley.

Appropriate athletic gear is authorized at the discretion of the Galley staff. Please remember that for sanitation purposes and for the consideration of other customers, if you have been out for PT, been working out at the gym, or have just been engaged in any physical activity where you and or your clothing has become soiled or sweaty you will be asked to turn around.

SEPTEMBER 7, 2018

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SEPTEMBER 7, 2018

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GAMEZONE GOOD NIGHT HELP HELTER SKELTER HER MAJESTY I FEEL FINE I NEED YOU I'M A LOSER I'M SO TIRED LET IT BE LOVE ME DO LOVE YOU TO MAGGIE MAE MARTHA MY DEAR NOWHERE MAN

OLD BROWN SHOE PAPERBACK WRITER PENNY LANE PIGGIES RAIN REVOLUTION ROCKY RACCOON SAVOY TRUFFLE SHE LOVES YOU THE WORD THIS BOY WHAT GOES ON WILD HONEY PIE

MEDIUM

ALL MY LOVING AND I LOVE HER BECAUSE BLUE JAY WAY COME TOGETHER DIG IT DOCTOR ROBERT DRIVE MY CAR FOR NO ONE FOR YOU BLUE GIRL GLASS ONION GOLDEN SLUMBERS

EASY

Find and circle all of the songs by The Beatles that are hidden in the grid.

The remaining letters spell the name of an additional Beatles song.

DIFFICULT

Beatles Songs 2

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PAGE 14 "ITALIAN NEWS" continued from Page 6 Holy Mary who is believed to protect fishing boat crews during their work out at sea.

Tradition holds that on March 26, 1933, a violent sea storm threatened the gulf of Ognina in Catania. Part of the pier and several boats were damaged and houses overlooking the coast were lapped against by waves. Chronicles of the time estimated that the waves were over 40 feet tall. In order to avert the danger, local fishermen turned to the Virgin Mary for help.

They placed the statue of the Madonna in the church square after moving it from the altar of the Ognina Sanctuary. Hours later, the sea calmed down, it was deemed a miracle for the local community.

This is one of the extraordinary events that strengthened the devotion of the Ognina fishermen toward the Virgin Mary. Today, they still pray to her in times illness or for help in getting out of a difficult situation. As in the past, today’s fishermen still exchange a special greeting among each other, as a tribute to both Jesus and the Virgin Mary. As two boats cross during night fishing, a crew leader says “Virgin Mary!” and the other replies “Jesus.” Then, they exchange information on the outcome of the fishing.

The fishermen’s strong devotion inspired them to celebrate an annual festival to honor the Virgin Mary.

The origin of the festival dates back to the 19th century. Residents of the

For Troops

area financially supported the festival—money was collected and placed into pottery moneyboxes, named “Caruseddi.” The moneyboxes were later broken during a ceremony held on the Friday preceding the actual festival.

Recently, it was decided that instead of giving a donation, each fisherman would allocate half of his own weekly income, named the “menza parti,” to support the organization of the festival.

Originally, a statue depicting the Virgin Mary was brought in procession on a wooden carriage through the streets of Ognina district. Then, on Sept. 12, 1889, a fire occurred after the festival as the devotees left the candles lit on the wooden carriage to honor the Madonna. The wax melted and set the both the carriage and the painting on fire. Thus, a new statue was needed to replace the damaged one. While this new statue was being carved in Paris, a wax sculpture depicting the child Virgin Mary (named “Bammina” which in Italian means female child) was temporarily displayed in the sanctuary. The new statue, carved by a French monk, was permanently placed in 1889.

The Sanctuary that hosts the precious statue was built in 1392, although historic chronicles state that the named “Santa Maria di Lognina” was already paying tribute to the Vatican in 1308.

In a 16th century document, a local notary named Merlino wrote that the church had miraculously survived the “Terremoto magnus” (the big earthquake) that destroyed the local area in

Upcoming Events

For Military Families

For Military Spouses

For Single and Unaccompanied Service Members

Read to a child or loved one, even when you're far away!

Call DSN 624-6377 or email SigonellaUSO@uso.org to schedule an appointment for a reading today!

1542. Merlino also wrote that after the earthquake, a group of prisoners were temporary jailed in the church since the prison was destroyed.

In 1676, historian Giovanni Andrea Massa, wrote that pilgrims from all over the world came to the Ognina Sanctuary to thank the Virgin Mary for the graces (healing or other miracles) she had granted them.

After another terrible earthquake in 1693, the church was rebuilt in a new location facing north. The church consists of three naves. In the 17th century, Giacomo Vignerio, a student of Raphael’s, painted its interior.

Tomorrow at 8 a.m., the festival opens with the “Svelata,” the unveiling of the statue depicting the Virgin Mary. The statue is lighted and placed next to the tabernacles to symbolize the union with her son Jesus. Holy

SEPTEMBER 7, 2018 masses will be celebrated at 10 a.m., noon, and 7 p.m. inside. At 5 p.m., the archbishop of Catania will celebrate a solemn mass in front of the church’s portico after a fireworks show.

The “Processione della Madonna a mare” (the procession of the Virgin Mary at sea) will begin at 6 p.m.

The statue is placed on a boat and brought in procession around the gulf of Ognina. A music show will end the celebration at 9:30 p.m. and a spectacular fireworks show will be held at 10:30 p.m.

The port of Ognina is located in coastal Catania in the direction of Aci Castello. Expect heavy traffic in the area so walk or carpool to the event. For more information and detailed festival schedules, visit https:// www.facebook.com/FestaSantaMariaDiOgnina/

"McCain" continued from Page 7 bearers and ushers to the U.S. Navy Band and U.S. Naval Academy Glee Club during a service that spanned two-and-a-half hours.

McCain’s ‘Amazing’ Life Former President George W. Bush said what was remarkable about McCain’s life was the “amazing sweep” of it.

“From a tiny prison cell in Vietnam to the floor of the United States Senate, from trouble-making [Naval Academy] plebe to presidential candidate, wherever John passed throughout the world, people immediately knew there was a leader in their midst,” he said.

“And one epic life was written of courage and greatness of our country,” Bush added.

“John was, above all, a man with a code,” the former president said. “He lived by a set of public virtues that brought strength and purpose to his life and to his country.

“He was courageous, with a courage that frightened his captors and inspired his countrymen,” Bush said.

“As John would say: ‘My friends,’ we come to celebrate an extraordinary man -- a warrior, a statesman, a patriot, [who] embodied so much that is best in America,” former President Barack Obama said.

‘He Made This Country Better’ Obama said McCain made him and Bush better presidents during his Senate tenure, “just as he made the Senate better. Just as he made this country better.”

McCain showed a largeness of spirit and an ability to see past differences in search of common ground, the 44th president said.

He answered the highest of callings to do something that was bigger than he was by serving his country during a time of war, Obama said.

“Others this week and this morning have spoken of the depths of his torment and the depths of his courage there in the cells of Hanoi, when day after day, year after year, that youthful iron was tempered into steel.” he said of McCain’s five-and-a-half years spent as a prisoner of war.

In captivity, McCain learned how each moment, each day and each choice is a test, the former president noted. “And John McCain passed that test again and again and again. And that’s why when John spoke of virtues like service and duty, it didn’t ring hollow. Those weren’t just words to him. It was a truth that he had lived, and for which he was prepared to die.”

A Family Man McCain was also lauded as a great family man, husband and father.

His daughter, Meghan McCain, gave the eulogy and said, “the nation is here to remember you,” to her father.

“That fervent faith, that proven devotion, that abiding love -- that is what drove my father from the fiery skies above the Red River Delta to the brink of the presidency itself,” she said.

“Dad,” McCain said, “your greatness is woven … into the life and liberty of the country you sacrificed so much to defend.”

SEPTEMBER 7, 2018 "ICE" continued from Page 3 States, it will also air unedited on AFN television. Typically, these programs are preceded by warnings of strong language or other possibly offensive content. I apologize if some content is offensive to you or your family members and encourage you to tune the radio or television to another channel should the need arise.

Comment Regarding NEX Quality:

My husband and I have been stationed overseas for more than three decades on various bases throughout the world. This duty station’s NEX needs some improvement. It’s somewhat disorganized, shelves are empty, and there is a poor selection of the things actually offered. This is not only PCS season, but school is getting ready to open, and the selection of clothing is minimal. The lack of quality can’t be due to the SOFA agreement, because I consider the Naples NEX to be much better.

Response:

Thank you for your comment regarding the Sigonella NEX. I apologize for your experience during your visit. We continuously are striving to improve our logistics; however, even with our best efforts, we have some delays with customs on incoming containers. This is the case with the ironing boards you mentioned and I fully agree with you that this is an item we should never be out of stock of. The NEX manager is addressing the issue with our buying staff at Headquarters. In regard to children's clothing, the store manager is always available and open to any and all suggestions he can take and forward to the buying staff in regard to our selection.

The larger issue here is Sigonella is at the end of the supply chain. Naples is a larger store, so they get more things than our store both in assortment and quantity. We get items allocated to us based on previous sales and the size of our installation.

When a desired item is not offered locally, we have a special order process that can be utilized at the electronics desk or the customer service desk. If you have seen the item at another NEX location, we will most likely be able to order it for you.

However, the delivery time could be as long as three or four months because of our OCONUS location.

I appreciate your candid comments, and the NEX will use them as a training opportunity to improve operations. As always, if the NEX ever fails to meet your expectations, you can speak to the Manager directly within the store, or ask for the Duty Manager. He can also be reached via telephone at 6244379, or via email at john.sisson@nexweb.org.

"READY NAVY" continued from Page 9 includes what to do, where to go, and what to take with you, * Learn to build a kit to support basic needs for a minimum of three days, and * Access tools and resources to help you and your family prepare for emergency situations that could arise at any time with no warning.

Navy Personnel and families are strongly encouraged to strengthen emergency planning at home, as well as at work, by reading and following the tips and information found at www.Ready.Navy.mil.

“Pull out your insurance policies and make sure they provide the right coverage for you,” Alexander said. “Keep some amount of cash on hand, in small denominations; it is likely that credit and debit cards will not be usable for some period of time. Finally, consider taking a first aid or CPR class; you or your family's lives may depend on it!”

Commander, Navy Installations Command is comprised of approximately 53,000 military and civilian personnel worldwide responsible for the operations, maintenance and quality of life programs to sustain the Navy's fleet, enable the fighter, and support the family.

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Crime Prevention and Preparedness

By GM2 Joshua Neal Emergency Preparedness Coordinator

Crime prevention done the right way is when local people work with local law enforcement to address local issues. Here in Sigonella, most of us are pretty good about reporting suspicious activity and criminal incidents that they either see or are victim to. Keeping those reports coming is key to keeping everyone informed about what could potentially happen to others. Communicating with our law enforcement and each other is essential.

And, communication here is easier than most places in the U.S., due not only to the small area that most of us live and work in, but also because the majority of us are, or were at one point, active duty service members. We all know the same struggles in this community and are good about sharing our ideas and resources for crime prevention. Social media has also made public awareness even easier with various Facebook pages, websites, apps, and countless group chats to keep us connected and informed on suspected crimes in our community.

Working with your friends, family, and neighbors to keep your neighborhood clean and orderly can make a difference. Suppose you have a dirty neighborhood with graffiti everywhere and unkempt properties—potential criminals would view this place as one that they can do as they please in with low probability of law enforcement interference. On the other hand, properly maintained homes and clean streets can help deter people from thinking that way.

But obviously just keeping a nice neighborhood won’t stop criminals any more than posted signs would. Some ways to prevent a few kinds of crimes include keeping your spare keys with a trusted neighbor or nearby friend instead of under a doormat, inside a false rock, on a ledge, or in the mailbox. Speaking of keys, keep your doors (both home and vehicle) locked whether you are in them or not. There is a huge misconception, especially here in Sigonella, that keeping your doors unlocked is acceptable. Whether you live on base, in Marinai, or out in the economy, keeping your car and home doors locked will prevent more attempts than you’d think.

You can also set timers for lights when you’re away from home or when your business is closed, so they appear to be occupied. The cost and installation of these timers and lighting fixtures is negligible in comparison to potential damages or stolen property and valuables. Illuminate (or

eliminate completely) any places an intruder might hide such as the spaces between trees or shrubs, stairs, alleys, hallways, and entryways.

A tree is only as strong as its roots. To help prevent future crimes, we must look to our future—our children. Parents should strive to teach them good life choices, to take responsibility, and be proactive. Teachers and parents could help make this happen in various ways.

The National Crime Prevention Council (ncpc.org) suggests developing emergency plans with the kids to address scenarios like fights, active shooters, bomb threats, etc.

Of course, in Sigonella there are already plans in place for things like these, but it’s highly encouraged to teach these at home as well so they understand the impact and importance.

Youth groups or schools can also use character development materials and exercises to teach kids responsibility, respect, leadership, and trustworthiness. Engaging the kids and also parents and local law enforcement to help keep our schools safer is essential. A fantastic program that recently started in Sigonella and is seeing tremendous support from our community is the DEFY (Drug Education For Youth) program where youth learn invaluable skills to resist drugs and criminal activity while building positive social skills. Cleaning up our schools and neighborhoods are critical steps in preventing criminal emergencies.

If you find yourself in or witnessing a crime take place, make your safety the highest priority.

Once you are safe, report the crime to an official or to law enforcement by calling 095-86-1911.

If you cannot make the call immediately, write down what you do witness, including the time, date, parties involved, who the official was that you reported it to, and details of the crime. This way, when you do report it, you will be able to recall the incident with more clarity.

There are countless crimes that could take place or emergencies that you can find yourself in, but regardless of what they are, you can always prepare somehow. Should you have any emergencies, please call the EOC's Emergency Dispatch Center (our 911) at 095-86-1911 or DSN 624-1911. For non-emergencies, you can contact the Emergency Dispatch Center at 09586-5225 or DSN 624-5225.

Want to learn more? Stop by the EOC at NAS II, and our Emergency Management staff will be more than glad to guide you in preparing for a myriad of situations. You can also send an email to joshua.neal@eu.navy.mil.

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SEPTEMBER 7, 2018