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SIGONELLA, SICILY
January 9, 2015
Vol. 32 No. 1
cnic.navy.mil/sigonella
NAS Sigonella begins 2015 in "dramatic" fashion
Missoula Children’s Theatre (MCT) staff and Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella children role-play the German fairytale “Rapunzel,” Jan. 3. In five-days MCT staff taught the roles to 61 NAS Sigonella children. (U.S. Navy photos by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Ramon Go/Released) By mc3 ramon go
NAS Sigonella Public Affairs Staff
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – NAS Sigonella began the new year in "dramatic" fashion with a theatrical performance of Rapunzel, Jan 3. The performance was led by two tour actor-directors from Missoula Children’s Theater (MCT); Brandon Alpert and Lauren Butler. The lead directors arrived Dec. 28 with only five days of auditions, casting, and rehearsals in preparation for the show, last Saturday. “MCT’s vision is to teach life skills to kids through the participation of performing arts,” said Alpert. “This week, we arrived to Sigonella and taught these kids invaluable life lessons with coordination and teamwork. We have a lot of kids who come back year after year with excitement to be a part in the first show of the year.” Rapunzel was comprised of 61 kids from ages 5 through 13 who went through rehearsals, some lasting up to four hours each day. “Even though you’re nervous, it’s easy to memorize your lines, but if you show emotion through your face and actions, you can draw the people in,” said Michelle Rodriguez, a 13-year-old who plays the fairytale villain, Madame Gothel. “Make them believe and feel a part of the story.” MCT has performed for more than 40 years in countries all around the world, fostering creativity and enhancing innate capabilities in individuals by providing access to community-driven performing arts experiences. MCT strives to transcend any barriers such as language, culture, financial resources, and unique needs, to transform lives by actively engaging people in the arts. “It’s amazing to see how the MCT staff works so well with the children and how they’ve put together the show so smoothly in only five days,” said Rhina Rodriguez, Michelle’s mother. “I am grateful for the MCT staff and for my kids who got to enjoy the experience as they look foward to this every year.” Around Sigonella:
2014 Year in Review:
FFSC:
See what's happening around NAS Sigonella!
Reflecting on the past year through photographs!
Spouse deploying? What do you do?
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U.S. NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA Commanding Officer Capt. Chris Dennis Executive Officer Cmdr. Charles G. McKinney II Command Master Chief CMDCM Mike Kaszubowski
EDITORIAL Public Affairs Officer Lt. Paul Newell paul.newell@eu.navy.mil Editor M. Todd Butler michael.butler@eu.navy.mil Community Relations Officer Dott. Alberto Lunetta alberto.lunetta.it@eu.navy.mil PAO Staff Writers \ Photographers MC1 Tony D. Curtis anthony.curtis@eu.navy.mil MC3 Ramon Go ramon.go@eu.navy.mil
CONTACT US Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily thesig@eu.navy.mil DSN 624-5440; 095-86-5440 PSC 812 Box 7, FPO, AE 09627-0001 PUBLISHER Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity Capodichino (Naples), Italy stampagenerale@tin.it Tel. 081-568-7884 Fax 081-568-7887 This civilian enterprise (CE) newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services overseas. Contents of The Signature are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense (DoD), or the U.S. Navy. The appearance of advertising in this newspaper, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the DoD or Stampa Generale S.r.l., of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factorof the purchaser, user or patron. A confirmed violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected. The Signature is published weekly by Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity, Capodichino (Naples), Italy. Tel. 081-568-7884. Fax 081-568-7887. E-mail: stampagenerale@tin.it. Editorial submissions are welcomed from all Naval Air Station Sigonella departments, divisions and tenant commands. Editorial submissions should be sent to the Public Affairs Office via thesig@eu.navy.mil, guard mail stop #68 or hand-delivered to our office no later than the close of business on the Friday proceeding the expected publication date. All articles submitted by non-staff members will be considered contributing writers. The Signature will not publish anyanonymous articles. All advertisements in this publication are the property of Stampa Generale S.r.l. Any reproduction of advertisements in The Signature is unauthorized without the written consent of the publisher.
cnic.navy.mil/sigonella
Direct Line
Command Master Chief Mike Kaszubowski Saluti Sigonella I hope everyone in Sigonella and your families around the world had a joyous and happy holiday period. As I walked around the base recently, talking to Sailors and families, it is awesome to hear about where you’ve traveled, the sites you’ve seen and the places you’ve visited. Living in Europe has its perks and one of them for sure is the travel. The holiday season is always a good time to reflect and think about the past year accomplishments. It is also a good time to think about the year ahead. Have you thought about your goals, resolutions and what you would like to accomplish? I personally am not big into resolutions, but I am big on goals. What is the difference you ask? A resolution is a vow or promise. A goal is a target. I have my goals written down for not only myself but the base as well. I will strive to make sure all my goals are made and I will continue to refine them based on what is going on. As we move into 2015, take a look at your own goals and see if they are 1. Realistic and 2. Achievable. Setting goals gives you long-term vision and short-term motivation. It focuses your acquisition
of knowledge, and helps you to organize your time and your resources so that you can make the very most of your life. By setting sharp, clearly defined goals, you can measure and take pride in the achievement of those goals, and you'll see forward progress in what might previously have seemed a long pointless grind. You will also raise your selfconfidence, as you recognize your own ability and competence in achieving the goals that you've set. Good luck on your own goals! As we are now in January, the CPO exam is right around the corner along with the E-4, E-5 and E-6 exam. Are you ready? Have you given yourself enough time to study for the upcoming exams and have you made sure your record is accurate. In December we promoted 55 AWESOME Sailors who worked hard, studied and set a goal. As we approach this next wave of tests please make sure you are doing everything you can to be competitive for the exam! Let’s make Naval Air Station Sigonella better, cleaner and more enjoyable in 2015. As a team, and a community, we must all do our part and every lit bit helps. Whether is
picking up a piece of trash, recycling batteries, driving safely, following the rules or just being a great citizen of this wonderful community, we can ALL achieve superior success as I know we will. 2015 is going to be a great year and I look forward to seeing everything it has to offer. I wish you all continued success and nothing but health and happiness as we move forward. It is truly a privilege to be stationed here and to be a part of this wonderful base. As always Sigonella, Lead by example, create opportunities for others to succeed and have a positive attitude. See you around the base!
JEWISH SHABBAT LAY SERVICE
SundaY ■ 12 p.m. Sunday School ■ 11 a.m. Traditional Worship
By LCDR John Broom U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - When the holiday season rolls around, it is easy to become consumed with all of the holiday festivities and the stress of finding the perfect gift for your loved ones. In times like these, we sometimes take for granted everyday luxuries that may not be afforded to others. Changing lives and helping those in need is what the Sigonella Nurses Association (SNA) is all about. Giving back and taking steps to make the world a healthier and happier place is the foundation on which the organization is built. As the 2014 holiday season was fast approaching, the SNA saw an opportunity to give back to a local Italian orphanage and foster home. After learning that this home, in the town of Mascalucia, which housed 13 children and three adults, was in need of a clothes dryer, the SNA voted unanimously to purchase and donate one. In Sept. 2014, the SNA sponsored a very successful “Healthy Transformation Classic” to promote healthy lifestyles and physical fitness. “We wanted to do something different this year,” said Lt. Doris Richardson. As a result of her efforts alongside another SNA member, Lt. Aspen Alu, “The Healthy Transformation Classic” raised substantial funds and they elected to donate to the local community. In a time where many of us spend our holidays in abundance, the SNA remembered locals who were not as fortunate. Their generosity spread a little holiday cheer and offered something to warm the hearts and bodies of those in need.
By Catherine Indresano Sigonella Elementary School
TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY & FRIDAY ■ 11:30 a.m. Catholic Mass (NAS 2 Chapel) Sacraments of Reconciliation/Penance precede each Mass
Saturday ■ 6:30 p.m. Contemporary Worship Services
Members of the Sigonella Nurses Association of U.S Naval Hospital Sigonella visit a local Orphanage where they donated a new clothes dryer. (Photo courtesy of Sigonella Nurses Association).
"The hour of code" at Sigonella E.S.
LATTER-DAY SAINTS
PROTESTANT (NAS 1 CHAPEL)
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From Housing Service Center Sigonella
ROMAN CATHOLIC
FRIDAY ■ 11:30 a.m. Catholic Mass (NAS 1 Chapel)
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home search
NASSIG WORSHIP SERVICES
Sunday ■ 9 a.m. Catholic Mass (NAS 1 Chapel)
January 9, 2015
Sigonella Nurses Association Homes.mil launches new site to help with spreads holiday cheer
DRIVE SAFELY SIGONELLA
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January 9, 2015
SUNDAY at 1:30 p.m. (NAS 1 Chapel) Contact: sigonellalds@gmail.com or 624-9049 FRIDAY at 5:30 p.m. (NAS 1 Chapel)
NIGHT STUDY
■ Italian Class Tuesday at 7 p.m (Classroom at NAS 1 Chapel) ■ AA Meetings: MONDAY at 5:30 p.m. (NAS 1 Chapel) second deck; Thursday at 7 p.m. (NAS 2 Chapel) ■ Glee Club Tuesday at 12 p.m. (NAS 1 Chapel) ■ Awana Club Tuesday at 4:45 p.m (NAS 1 Chapel) NAS Sigonella Religious Ministries Department Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/NavalAirStationSigonellaChapel
Chapel Offices: NAS 1 095-56-3975, NAS 2 095-86-9049, DSN: 624-3975, CHAPLAIN DUTY: 335-831-4493 RP DUTY: 335-786-1950
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - Dec. 8-12 was Computer Science Education Week. Sigonella Elementary School students celebrated the week by participating in the Hour of Code. Last year over 15 million students around the world tried "The Hour of Code" for the first time, (including our students). The purpose of the Hour of Code is to introduce students to computer science. The event is sponsored by companies such as Apple, Microsoft, Facebook, and Amazon. This year every class from Sure Start to 5th Grade spent about one hour learning how to program computer games like Angry Birds and Frozen using activities at www.code.org. The event started with a motivational video from President Barack Obama encouraging students to learn more about computer science. The basics help develop creativity and problem-solving skills and prepare students for a future career in a field that is growing each year. Our hope is that once students see what they can create, they will be empowered to keep learning. In addition to "The Hour of Code," some 1st, 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade classes are spending an hour a week for 20 weeks learning more about coding as part of the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) initiative in DODEA.
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - A new web-based program will help military service members, Department of Defense (DOD) civilian employees and their families search for off-base homes. Homes.mil launched Jan. 5 at https://www.homes.mil. This new website enables personnel executing permanent change of station (PCS) orders to search for available economy housing in their current or next duty station. Customers will be able to search and view property information in any duty stations operated by the U.S. Navy, Army, Air Force, and Marine Corps. Location, amenities, number of bedrooms, type of home, and monthly rent are some criteria's that can be used to refine your search. Other important Homes.Mil information: - The site will enable HSC staff, landlords, and property managers to find and share vital information about non-discriminatory rental listing. - In CONUS, the website provides a free online forum for landlords, owners, and property managers to add and manage their property listings. For OCONUS overseas installations, HOMES.mil sites and information are managed via the respective Housing Service Centers. - Homes.mil is a DOD controlled website that provides limited information to the public. Only registered users can obtain listing addresses and landlord contact information, and all user data is stored in accordance with DOD Information Assurance requirements. - Homes.mil provides mailing address, DSN, commercial phone numbers, and the ability to contact Housing Service Centers via email. - Homes.mil will modernize the way DOD provides list of local rental properties to service members before their arrival. This effort improves the Housing Offices' service to our customers and alleviates the burden and stress associated with PCS moves. - Homes.mil features search and display options will allow users to save listings, view photos, and research housing areas. The website allows users to compare up to four different properties at one time. If you have any questions regarding this new webbased housing referral program, please call the Sigonella housing office at 624-4064 or 624-4311.
FFSC now offering Infant Massage class NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - The Fleet and Family Support Center, New Parent Support Program is now certified by the International Association of Infant Massage to teach parents the art of Infant Massage. Infant massage naturally encompasses all of the elements of the bonding process to enhance the loving relationship between infants and parents. Baby benefits from interaction, stimulation, relaxation, and relief and parents strengthen their connection and bond with child. Please contact FFSC at 624-4291 for information about upcoming classes and in-home parent education.
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January 9, 2015
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
January
Friday
9
Arrivederci Class 8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. FFSC
2015
12
Monday Public Speaking 1 - 3 p.m. FFSC
13
Tuesday Stress Management 1 - 3 p.m. FFSC
Baby Boot Camp 12 - 2 p.m. FFSC Infant/Toddler Playgroup 9 - 10 a.m. FFSC
19
Aromi and Scordia: Honey & Olive Oil Tasting, Orange Picking & BBQ 1:15 p.m. - midnight ITT
20
ICR 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. FFSC Time Management 9 - 11 a.m. FFSC
14
Wednesday Sponsor Training 9 - 11:30 a.m FFSC
10
Saturday
Circumetnea Historical Train Adventure 6:45 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. ITT
11
Naro and Sicilian Trattoria 7:15 a.m. - 6 p.m. ITT
Craig Karges 4:45 p.m. Midtown Theater
Mt. Etna Day Trip 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Liberty
15
Anger Management 1 - 3 p.m. FFSC
Thursday Spouse orientation 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. FFSC
16
Catania Shopping Trip 8:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. ITT
17
Palermo and Monreale 6:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. ITT
18
Snowboarding on Mt. Etna 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. Outdoor Rec
Federal Hiring 9 - 10:30 a.m. FFSC
Sunday
Scilla & Reggio Calabria 6:30 a.m. - 8 p.m. ITT
PFM Leadership Brief 8 - 9 a.m.
21
ICR 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. FFSC Anger Management 1 - 3 p.m. FFSC
22
ICR 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. FFSC
Conflict Management 7:30 - 11 a.m. FFSC
23
Sig Safe 7:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. FFSC Arrivederci Class 8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. FFSC
IMPORTANT EXTENSIONS:
24
25
Piazza Armerina Roman Agrigento: Valley of Villa & Aidone Museum the Temples & Bagliesi 7:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. Winery Wine Tasting ITT 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Snowshoe Rifugio Galvarina with BBQ 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Outdoor Rec
ITT
Bellini Opera - Anna Bolena ITT
FFSC: x4291 ITT : x4777, x4396 Liberty/Connections/Take 5: x4246, x5602 Outdoor Rec: x4777, x4396 Fitness: x4483, x5243 Midtown 2 Theaters: x4248 American Red Cross: x4900
Does your command or organization have an event you’d like to see on the Community Calendar? Email us at thesig@eu.navy.mil and let us know!
January 9, 2015
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Commanding Officer's Suggestion Box There are two ways to submit feed back to Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella Commanding Officer Capt. Chris Dennis. Visit The 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. Also, visit NAS Sigonella's website www.cnic.navy.mil/Sigonella, go to the "About" drop down menu and click on " CO Suggestion Box". The Signature will anonymously publish comments and responses for the benefit of the Sigonella community. If you are submitting a "BZ", we ask that you provide your name in order for us to properly recognize employee. Please make sure your comments and suggestions are constructive. In other words, "BE NICE ON ICE."
Comment regarding: Trash left around Marinai:
I live in Marinai by the Community Center. There is a hill there that serves as a playground for kids who have invented a sport called "Box Sledding." Though I am impressed by their creativity, I am tired of cleaning up their trash left on the field. I have asked parents to talk to their kids about cleaning up after they go rooting through the dumpsters to find a "sled," and have even started telling the kids to pick up after themselves. Unfortunately, the result is always the same: boxes, packing material, and other garbage littering the field and residence lawns. It would be appreciated if parents would talk to their kids about this. The maintenance staff works hard, and they shouldn't have to pick up trash carelessly discarded any more than I should!
Response:
I agree that it's the responsibility of our children to keep the areas they play in tidy, as well as the need for parental follow-up when this doesn't happen. Though I am very sorry you've had to deal with the trash scattered about Marinai, I want to thank you for being a conscientious neighbor concerned with the cleanliness of your neighborhood. I'd also like to extend my thanks to Pizzarotti for providing a quick response in cleanup efforts!
Comment regarding On-Base Bus Transportation:
I am new to the island and live in the barracks on NAS 2. I have no car so I must rely on the bus, which doesn't run on time. I have tried to catch the bus several times, but no matter the hour, it is never on time as per the provided schedule. I am not the only one with this complaint.
Response:
Thank you for your comment. I'm sorry for the inconvenience you've experienced, especially without an alternative means of transportation. I've directed Public Works to audit the on-base bus program. Once a solution has been determined we will publish the schedule appropriately throughout the base. Again, I apologize for the trouble you've endured.
Comment regarding Gas Coupons:
I have seen a trend over the year-and-a-half I've been here of MVRO not updating insurance and safety inspection files, which in turn causes our allowance for gas coupons to be cut off. This recently happened to me even though I turned in my completed car inspection to MVRO a month ahead of when it was due. Can we please do something to stop this? It will save money for those who otherwise must pay Euro at the pump because they have no coupons.
Response:
I apologize for the inconvenience you experienced with your gas coupons, and agree that this process needs review. I have asked for a full review of the program to make sure the system is operating properly. Thank you for bringing this to our attention.
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 335-578-8077 if you are normally seen at the hospital or 335-578-8150 if you are normally seen at the Flight Line Clinic.
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U.S. Navy HEADLINES January 9, 2015
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Naval Health Research Center concludes six-year vaccine study with FDA
Winter discount shopping season kicks off in Italy
By Anna Hancock
Naval Health Research Center Public Affairs
Why do Italians celebrate La Befana? By Alberto Lunetta NAS Sigonella Community Relations Director
It’s that time of the year again! Sigonella bargain hunters will be happy to hear that the new year’s clearance sales season has recently begun in Italy. (Photo by http://www.ilgiornale.it/ )
CATANIA, Sicily - Imagine a “Black Friday” weekend that would last three months! Italy’s winter “stagione di saldi” or discount season kicked off last week. This is the first of the two yearly government-regulated periods for such a special sale and it lasts until March 15. The other discount season starts on the second Saturday of July and lasts until Sept. 15. Since this is the second week of discounts, you won’t find anymore long lines at checkout counters and excited shoppers pushing and shoving their way into stores like it usually happens during the first days of the post-holiday season sale. So get ready to buy high quality Italian stylish items at bargain prices, but watch out for retailers who trumpet big discounts. Here are some good rules of thumb provided by Italy Consumer Associations. Try to listen to these tips so you will avoid rip-offs and disputes with merchants that are difficult to handle if you don’t speak Italian. First of all, do not trust discounts higher than 50 per cent from the initial price. A “sensational” 80 or 90 per cent discount sounds like a tempting offer but it is probably a rip-off. Remember that, during the discount season, defective merchandise can be exchanged or returned as usual. There is no “special return policy” when you shop at sales. Therefore, always keep your scontrino or receipt and distrust the shops that display signs saying: “la merce venduta non si cambia “ (purchased merchandise cannot be returned) or “all sales are final.” By law, you have the right to change any defective clothing or shoe that is not up to sample within two months. Retailers can either refund you or give you a coupon that should be spent in the same shop. But always remember to double check with them about that. Make sure they know who you are and what did you buy. Some storeowners are sometimes reluctant, already, after a week, to change defective merchandise. Be sure to look an item over carefully before you buy it. Check different shops to compare prices. If you have already visited a store you might be able to evaluate if a product was over-priced and then marked down. Stores must display on the tags the initial prezzo (price) and the reduced price, both in ciphers and in percentage. Finally, remember that you can use any way of payment. Mistrust shop owners who display signs saying “non si accettano carte di credito e bancomat” (credit cards and ATM cards are not accepted). If you don’t see any signs around, and the sales clerk tells you about it upon paying, tell them you know they are must accept your credit card.
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - When I was a child, I remember how excited I was during the night of Jan. 5 because I knew I would get special gifts from her that next morning. Before I actually went to sleep, I used to place my empty stocking under the Christmas tree. I would fall asleep and dream of her flying on her broom across the dark night sky and sometimes “hear” her sneaking into the houses carrying a bag full of gifts. The gifts for all the good kids and “coal” for the kids that didn’t behave! Who is she? She is “La Befana,” the Italian version of Santa Claus. She is a little old lady, with a hooked nose, so mysterious and arcane, so dear to children that through the centuries she has continued to fascinate them and they still await her arrival on the night of her holiday. Her name comes from the word “Epifania or Epiphany,” the holiday celebrated on Jan 6. She is personified as a good witch, who comes during the night of Jan. 5 bringing gifts for children. The gifts were requested, a few weeks beforehand, by writing her little letters. For the ones who didn't behave, she leaves sweet edible coal. The Feast of the Epiphany commemorates the visit of the Magi (or Three Wise Men) to the infant Jesus, with their gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. The Magi were named Balthazar, Melchior, and Gaspar. According to the legend on their journey to Bethlehem, they stopped an old woman with a broom, who was sweeping and washing, asking her for directions. As she asked where they were going, they told her that they were following a star that would lead them to a newborn baby. They asked her if she would like to come along with them at which she replied that she was too busy cleaning up to go along with such nonsense. As you can imagine when she realized that the newborn was actually Jesus, the Redeemer, it was too late to reach the caravan. Her regret for not having gone along with the wise men was so great that she spends the eternity bringing gifts to good children on Christmas finding the Christ child in all children. The tradition also says that La Befana knows how the children behave so they have to watch their manners as the festival nears, otherwise, instead of finding toys and candy they may find “sweet coal.” Sometimes, when parents play a joke to their misbehaving kids, they would fill up the stocking with “sugar coal” before presenting their actual gifts.
San Diego (NNS) -- The Naval Health Research Center (NHRC) recently concluded one of the largest vaccine safety studies in the command's history, contributing to the fourth and final phase of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) smallpox vaccine safety trials. For more than six years, NHRC led the six military facilities across the nation taking part in this effort. About 16,000 samples were collected when the FDA decided NHRC's team had enough data to support the study. "Even though the smallpox vaccine is an FDA approved vaccine, many vaccines undergo this post-marketing vaccine safety study [phase four]," said Lt. Cmdr. Lori Perry, a preventive medicine physician with NHRC and the study's principal investigator. "It's an extra measure to track all potential adverse effects." The smallpox vaccine, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, is safe and effective and given to people determined to be at high risk for smallpox infection. Routine vaccination against smallpox stopped in 1972 after the disease was eradicated in the United States. "Military service members still receive the vaccine if they are deploying to an area where the threat of smallpox is present," noted Perry. In collaboration with the FDA and the vaccine manufacturer Sanofi Pasteur, NHRC established vaccine surveillance sites at Marine Corps Base Twentynine Palms, California, Fort Campbell, Kentucky, Fort Bliss, Texas, Fort Hood, Texas, Fort Stewart, Georgia and Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, in 2008. Since then, NHRC's teams diligently collected
data each time a vaccine was administered and closely monitored the health and well-being of the person who received it. The data was then reported to the manufacturer and ultimately the FDA who has the final authority on the vaccine's safety. "When we closed the surveillance sites down, it took the expertise from our quality assurance specialist and clinical trial program manager to ensure each applicable standard operating procedure was followed," said Perry. "Every detail to safeguard personally identifiable information and ensure patient privacy was accounted for." This month, NHRC's team is carrying out the administrative details in the turnover to its collaborative partners. This work will continue until the summer of 2015 but for now, NHRC's Commanding Officer Capt. Jacqueline Rychnovsky lauds the team responsible for executing the study. "This study directly contributed to the safety and readiness of our service men and women," explained Rychnovsky. "We appreciate the collaborative efforts from our Army, Marine Corps and Air Force counterparts at the surveillance sites. Their roles were integral to the success of the study." As the DoD's premier deployment health research center, NHRC's cutting-edge research and development is used to optimize the operational health and readiness of the nation's armed forces. Within close proximity to more than 95,000 uniformed service members, world-class universities, and industry partners, NHRC's expert team sets the standards in joint ventures, innovation, and practical application.
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NSWC PCD, ONR and U of MT conduct Heated Undergarment Technology Evaluation Program By John P. Klose
Underwater Systems Development and Acquisition Branch PANAMA CITY, Fla (NNS) -- The Office of Naval Research (ONR) funded research primarily conducted at NSWC PCD in Panama City, Florida this past year, identified the safe and highlyefficient, electrically-heated, diver thermal undergarments using Carbon Nano Core fibers, or CNC, are effective. The next step is to transition this technology into both dry and wet cold environment applications and develop mission-specific prototype garments for further testing. The technology was developed through a collaborative ONR "Swampworks" research effort between NSWC PCD, the University of Montana's Center for Work Physiology and Exercise Metabolism (WPEM), and defense contractors SAIC and the Coliant Corporation. The U.S. Navy in Panama City, Florida, has been investigating diver thermal protection technologies since the SEALAB experiments in the 1960s. Since salt water freezes at a lower temperature than fresh water, ocean temperatures in winter can reach as low as 29° F creating a very challenging environment in which Navy divers must operate. Cold skin temperatures lead to a loss of muscle strength and the ability to manipulate tools. Continued exposure to cold water can lead to the loss of core body temperature, called hypothermia, which can cause death in extreme situations. Navy divers are consistently challenged when working in cold water whether the mission is neutralizing mines, changing out the propeller of a ship, or riding in a SEAL Delivery Vehicle. "We are very excited about the initial results of our investigation," said NSWC PCD Project Engineer John Klose. "Coliant's CNC fibers have the right combination of physical, thermal, and electrical properties that allow us to build an electrically-heated undergarment that would not be possible using traditional technologies. The biggest risk from previous designs of electrically-heated diver thermal protection suits has been the potential for hot spots within the suit that could burn the diver. These new fibers use less power and generate heat at a lower overall temperature than traditional technologies. This allows us to design a diver heated undergarment that is much safer and much more energy efficient than previous diver heating system designs." "We are seeing no change in the metabolic rate of test subjects dressed in the heated undergarment and dry diving suit ensemble and sitting passively in a test tank filled with 40° F water," says Dr. Brent Ruby, Director of University of Montana's WPEM. "Their average skin and core body temperatures are normal and hold steady with less than 50 Watts of power being applied to the prototype undergarments. Without this protective heated diving suit ensemble, a normal person would survive less than 20 minutes in such cold water." "Having a safer and more energy efficient design solution for heated clothing can greatly improve the military's performance in many operational missions that are conducted in extreme environments," says Coliant President, John Swiatek. "Soldiers trekking through mountain passes, helicopter air crews in the North Atlantic in January, ground crew on a wintry airfield, or sailors working on aircraft carrier flight deck must all deal with harsh, cold weather environments. This technology even has application in combat casualty care for preventing or delaying the onset of shock and potentially extending what is known as the golden hour." NSWC PCD has been the U.S. Navy's Center of Excellence for Diving Systems and Technology for over 60 years. This latest breakthrough tackles one of the toughest challenges that Navy developers have faced in creating a safe and energy efficient heating source for Navy divers. Its future application to various Navy operational needs like ship husbandry, Initial Response Diving operations, arctic warfare, and Special Warfare operations is expected to greatly improve human performance in these applications.
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Year in Review Naval Air Station Sigonella Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella runners and walkers took to the NAS 2 streets, Jan. 11, for the New Year’s Rockin the 90’s Decade 5 Mile/8 Mile Run/Walk. Race participants had the option of running or walking the outside (8 miles), or the inside (5 miles) areas of the flightline jogging trails. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Cameron Bramham) Incoming U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella Commanding Officer Capt. William Davidson (right) with outgoing Commanding Officer, Capt. Patricia McDonald (left) and Deputy Commander, Navy Medicine East and guest speaker, Rear Adm. Christina Alvarado stand during U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella’s Change of Command ceremony, July 18 at Naval Air Station Sigonella. (U.S. Navy Photo by Hospitalman Jasper Seisa/Released)
U.S. Naval Hospital (USNH) Sigonella celebrated the first baby born in 2014 during a cake cutting ceremony, Jan. 10. On Jan. 3, at 8:14 a.m. Emma Victoria Bulan was born to proud parents, Genevieve Bulan (center) and Lt. Alexander Bulan (left), an Orthopedic Physician Assistant at USNH Sigonella. She weighed 8.1 lbs. and was 17.5 in. long. The Sigonella Nurses Association presented Emma and her family with a basket full of diapers, clothes, and other baby essentials. This is the second child for the Bulan family. Emma Victoria's older brother A.C., is two. (U.S. Navy photo by Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Roslyn Ablain/Released)
Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Africa 14 go on a three-mile motivational run aboard Naval Air Station Sigonella, Italy, Jan. 10, 2014. Established in 2011, the task force is charged with supporting United States Africa Command and Marine Corps Forces Africa’s theater security cooperation requirements to strengthen the defense capabilities of African states and regional organizations, deter and defeat transnational threats and strengthen the ability to conduct good governance and development. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Ed Galo)
Lt. Micheal McManus (left) and Builder Constructionman Apprentice Evan Lisano cut the ceremonial birthday cake as oldest and youngest Sailors in attendance for Sigonella Public Works Department March 8, at the 72nd Seabee Ball in Acireale, Sicily. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Cameron Bramham/Released)
Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella's Admin Officer, Lt. Samuel Jackson “pies” Navy Counselor 1st Class Gary Coumbe during Pie in the Face Day, a fund raising event which is part of the Navy and Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS) Active Duty Fund Drive. The event occurred on the same day as another fund raising event Radiothon (hosted by AFN Sigonella), which also raised funds for NMCRS Active Duty Fund Drive. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Cameron Bramham)
Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella MWR teamed up with Pizzarotti, an Italian company that owns Marinai Housing Complex for the annual Egg-Stravagnaza Easter egg hunt Saturday, April 19 in Marinai Housing. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Cameron Bramham/Released)
Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV) Ray Mabus speaks with Marines assigned to SpecialPurpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force (SP-MAGTF) and Sailors aboard Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella during an all hands call, June 17. Mabus is in the region to meet with Sailors and Marines, and civilian and military officials, as part of a multi-nation visit to the U.S. European and Africa Command areas of responsibility. NAS Sigonella provides logistical support for Commander, U.S. 5th and 6th Fleets and NATO forces in the Mediterranean area. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tony D. Curtis/Released)
Sigonella Elementary School Second Grade Teacher, Ynocencia Leandro helps a student at the geometric shapes station as part of Math Knight Feb. 7, which is an annual event hosted by Sigonella Elementary teachers and staff to encourage students and parents to participate in activities devoted to helping students improve their math skills. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Cameron Bramham)
Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella Commanding Officer, Capt. Christopher Dennis (right) and Commander Task Force (CTF) 67 Commanding Officer, Capt. Micheal McClintock read Green Eggs And Ham on Feb. 28, at Knights Hall as part of a celebration for Dr. Seuss’ birthday. Dennis and McClintock dressed up as Thing 1 and Thing 2, from The Cat In The Hat, before reading the book to Sigonella Elementary students, who were treated to breakfast prepared by their teachers consisting of green eggs and ham. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Cameron Bramham)
Stray animals, such as this cat outside the commissary, are attracted to the base when people leave out food and blankets. Putting out cans of food is also adding to base litters. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Tony D. Curtis/Released)
Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella Commanding Officer Capt. Chris Dennis (right) and Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Coordinator Xiomara Bowes lead a group of NAS Sigonella community members during the 9th annual Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) Walk, April 30 on NAS II. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Cameron Bramham/Released)
Celebrity Chefs Celina Tio, Panini Pete and Brian Duffy prepare dishes for service members with Bella Etna Galley's Italian and American staff aboard Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella, Feb. 14. The three chefs each prepared a dish for the service members on Valentine's Day. The chefs’ Valentine’s Day visit was presented by Navy Entertainment and Armed Forces Entertainment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Brian T. Glunt/ Released)
Sigonella Middle/High School students, parents, teachers and community members came together for three performances of "On Broadway! A revue in 3 acts." The plays included excerpts from West Side Story, My Fair Lady and Matilda. The plays took place March 7 and March 8 at Knights Hall on NAS 1. (Photos by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Tony D. Curtis/Lisa Ventura)
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - On a sunny Saturday morning, hundreds of Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella service and community members took to the pavement for the annual Base 2 Base (B2B) Run/Walk, hosted by Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR). The route for the B2B was 7.6 miles straight from the Flightline Fitness Center on NAS 2 to NAS I in the Commons area. This is the second year the B2B run included the half marathon distance. The extension took runners around the flightline, which added an extra five and a half miles on NAS 2 before they left the base. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Tony D. Curtis/Released)
Sailors belonging to the First Class Petty Officer Association (FCPOA) of Patrol Squadron NINE (VP-9) assisted in the improvement of the Targa Florio Museum in Palermo during a community relations (COMREL) project April 25. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist SeamanN Amber Porter/Released)
The Sigonella High School men’s and women’s basketball teams welcomed the Naples Wildcats to “The Jag” gymnasium at Sigonella Middle/High School for a double header on Jan. 17 and 18. The Lady Jaguars dropped both games over the weekend and the Jaguars held off a late Naples rally on Jan. 18 to split the two-game series. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Cameron Bramham/Released)
Xiomara "Z" Bowes, right, Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella's sexual assault response coordinator, speaks with Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Rebecca Sunderland, American Forces Network radio disc jockey, about upcoming sexual assault prevention and response events, aboard Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella, Jan. 27. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Brian T. Glunt/Released)
Former Army Air Corps Staff Sergeant, Herb Tollefson greets media members during a ceremony in Pachino, Sicily, July 1. The ceremony came 71 years after Tollefson's plane crashed in a small field outside the city. (U.S. Navy photo by Lt. Paul Newell/Released)
See "2014 in Review" Page 12
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Holiday let-downs By LCDR Edward Erwin NAS Sigonella Religious Ministries Department
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - It is only natural after the holidays that many experience an emotional let-down. As we prepare for Christmas, Hanukah, the New Year, and other special customs, we typically enjoy the best of parties, fine dining, elegant travel, gratifying presents, good cheer, etc. But then we face the New Year and what theologians call an existential emptiness. When we take away the intense activities filled with celebration and meaning, we may feel everything is anti-climactic after all the festivities. If you feel this way, you shouldn’t become alarmed. It’s quite natural with taking the Christmas tree and holiday decorations down to feel saddened by the passage of time. So how do we cope with the winter blahs and holiday let-downs? • Be grateful for the rich memories of the holiday season. Review photos and special e-mails that inspire you. Make a holiday journal and write out all the significant events you wish to remember for future reference. • Accept holiday let-downs as a normal response to exhilarating highs. With the highs of the holidays can come the lows of the winter blues. Life can be an emotional roller coaster with seasonal ups and downs. The frenzy of shopping, cooking, entertaining guests, opening presents can leave us feeling depleted in the wake of the holidays. • Recognize holiday let-downs can be complicated by SAD (seasonal affective disorder) in which a number of people feel temporary bouts of minor depression due in part to the reduction of sunlight. Plus, the loss of a loved one, the dissolution of a relationship, financial difficulties, or career challenges can only intensify the feelings of disappointment. • Continue the spirit of the holidays into the New Year. For example, in the Christian tradition, we often talk about keeping the spirit of Christmas every day of the year with kindness, compassion, and good will. In helping others, we actually help ourselves. • Devote time to your faith through prayer, contemplation, study of Scriptures, and church services. Get involved with people of like beliefs who are positive about life and its many joys. • Develop goals and commitments for the New Year that channel your energy and enthusiasm. Be excited and expectant for what the New Year holds for you and your loved ones. Turn your dreams into deeds! • If the occasional episode of winter blues doesn’t dissipate with time, seek out professional help. NAS Sigonella is blessed with many professional care-givers who are available to help you: Chaplains at the Religious Ministries Department (624-3975), Internal Behavioral Health Consultant (624-2273), Fleet and Family Support Center (624-4291), and Department of Mental Health (624-6095). In times of personal crisis, be encouraged that we are here to help and provide hope.
Friday, January 9 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Chicken Tocino on Garlic Fried Rice Lunch: Chef Francesco’s Home Made Lasagna, Baked Fish Speed Line: Temporarily Closed Dinner: Savory Baked Chicken, Baked Italian Sausage
Wednesday, January 14 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Creamed Ground Beef on Toast Lunch: Chef Ignazio’s Home Mad e Lasagna, Chuckwagon Stew Speed Line: All American Grilled Burgers Dinner: Spaghetti with Meat Sauce, Honey Ginger Chicken
Saturday, January 10 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Corned Beef Hash Brunch: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Corned Beef Hash, Roast Beef Dinner: Veal Steaks, Baked Tuna and Noodles
Thursday, January 15 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Corned Beef Hash Lunch: Roast Pork, Chicken Fried Steak w/ Gravy Speed Line: Panini Bar and Assorted Cold Cuts Dinner: Chili Macaroni, Baked Salmon
Sunday, January 11 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Grilled Minute Steak, Oven Fried Bacon Eggs to Order, Grilled Minute Steak, Oven Fried Bacon, Grilled Cheese Sandwich Brunch: Dinner: Spaghetti with Meatballs, Chicken Cacciatore Monday, January 12 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Minced Beef on Toast Lunch: Hamburger Yakisoba, Fried Catfish, Speed Line: Chef Salvo’s Freshly Made Pizza Dinner: Beef Ravioli, Herbed Baked Chicken Tuesday, January 13 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Chicken Tocino on Garlic Fried Rice Lunch: Asian Style Cuisine Speed Line: Pasta Bar with choice of Freshly Made Pasta Sauce Dinner: Lemon Baked Fish, Beef Stew
Friday, January 16 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Chicken Tocino on Garlic Fried Rice Lunch: Chef Russo’s Home Made Meatloaf, Baked Fish Speed Line: Chef Gigi’s Freshly Made Pizza Dinner: Chicken Parmesan, Fishwich A reminder to please adhere to our galley uniform rules below: 1. No sleeveless shirts or tanks tops (including basketball jerseys) 2. No shower shoes or flip-flops (wearing socks with flip-flops does not count) 3. No sweat pants or cut-offs 4. No white or blue undershirts 5. No PT/gym shorts or shorts without pockets 6. No hats (unless you are in the performance of your duty/ work) 7. No torn or dirty clothing 8. Uniform must be clean 9. Uncover before entering galley 10. No combination of military and civilian clothing 11. Boots and shoes must be free of dirt and mud Also, the taking of food out of the galley is strictly prohibited.
As a reminder, all dependents are always welcome at the galley! Please provide any negative or positive feedback. There is a suggestion box near the entrance to the galley, next to the serving line.
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GAME ZONE Happy New Year
Find and circle all of the words that are hidden in the grid. The remaining letters spell the name of a popular location for celebrating New Years Eve. NAS Sigonella Commanding Officer, Capt. Chris Dennis speaks to the 21 sailors who were advanced to Petty Officer 1st, 2nd snd 3rd Class, May 28. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Cameron Bramham/Released).
Sgt. Maj. of the Marine Corps Micheal P. Barrett (left), and Gen. James F. Amos (center), 35th Commandant of the Marine Corps, speaks with Sgt. Kenneth Meade, a St. Joseph, Mo., native and combat engineer with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Africa 14 during a visit aboard Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily, Sept. 3. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Corporal Shawn Valosin)
(From left) Lt. Matthew Brassart, officer-in-charge of Naval Radio Transmitter Facility in Niscemi; Consul General Colombia Barrosse; Deputy Mayor of Gela Fortunato Ferracane; Capt. Christopher Dennis, NAS Sigonella Commanding Officer; and Col. Vincenzo Sicuso, Italian Air Force Base Commander at Sigonella, pay tribute to fallen U.S. armed service members during a ceremony at Ponte Dirillo, Sicily, July 10. The commemoration took place following a ceremony in Gela, Sicily that honored those who had fought and died during Operation Husky, Allied invasion of Sicily during WWII. (U.S. Navy photo by Lt. Paul Newell/Released)
Chief petty officer selects sing "Anchors Aweigh" during the Chief Petty Officer Pinning Ceremony in the gym aboard Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella, Sept. 16. To see photos of the chiefs receiving their anchors, see page 8. To see more photos, visit our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ NASSigonella (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tony D. Curtis/Released)
U.S. Marines and British Royal Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Africa 14 work together to flip a zodiac combat reconnaissance rubber craft during a small-craft capsize exercise aboard Naval Air Station Sigonella, Italy, Aug. 20, 2014. The exercise taught service members how to flip their boat back over safely in the event of a rollover. The drills were used to prepare the service members for upcoming Theater Security Cooperation engagements in Africa where they will be working alongside partner nations and sharing the same techniques. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Corporal Shawn Valosin)
On September 30, roughly 200 civilians, military personnel, local nationals and other members of the Sigonella community came together in front of the NAS 2 water fountain to sign Naval Air Station Sigonella’s “Commitment to Sig Citizenship”. The goal for this pledge is for every individual member of the community to join together and show their support in making Sigonella a safer, better, place to work and live by actively caring for one another. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tony D. Curtis/Released)
The Command Triad of U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella salutes the raising of the American flag during morning colors on Oct. 1. From left to right, CMCDM Jill Easton, Executive Officer, Capt. John Lamberton and Commanding Officer, Capt. WRK Davidson. (U.S. Navy Photo by Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Matthew Clutter)
NAS) Sigonella's service and community members joined together at Marinai Housing Complex for the annual Fire Prevention Night held by NAS Sigonella Fire & Emergency Services (FES) on Oct. 7, 2014. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tony D. Curtis/Released)
Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella held its annual Navy Ball on October 17 at the Sheraton in Catania to commemorate the Navy's 239th birthday. The event was comprised of around 480 Sig Sailors and citizens to help celebrate the Navy and pay homage to this time - honored tradition. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tony D. Curtis/Released)
See "2014 in Review" Page 14
APPETIZERS BABIES BALLOONS BANNERS BUFFET CELEBRATE CHAMPAGNE CONFETTI DANCE DAY ONE DECORATIONS END OF DECEMBER EVENTS FAMILY
FATHER TIME FEAST FESTIVITIES FIREWORKS FIRST OF JANUARY FRIENDS HATS HOLIDAY HORNS KISS MIDNIGHT MUSIC NEW YEARS DAY NEW YEARS EVE
NOISEMAKERS OCCASION PARADES PARTY PUNCH RESOLUTIONS SINGING STREAMERS THIRTY FIRST TIARAS WINE YEAR IN REVIEW
DIFFICULT
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MEDIUM
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EASY
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Spouse deploying? What do you do?
"2014 Year in Review" continued from Page 12
By Fleet & Family Support center sigonella From militaryonesource.mil
Adm. Mark Ferguson, commander of U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa, presents a challenge coin to a Sailor during an all-hands call aboard Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella, Oct. 29. Ferguson thanked Sailors for their contributions to the NATO and U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa mission. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tony D. Curtis/Released)
Yeoman 3rd Class Chad Grant, from Schenectady, N.Y., left, removes debris from a recent tornado during a Community Relations (COMREL) Event. More than 150 volunteers participated in Acireale’s community restoration. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Ramon G. Go/Released)
Gunnery Sgt. Eric Brancheau reads the Marine Corps Birthday Message (Marine Corps Order no. 47) at the Sheraton Hotel in Catania, Sicily, Nov. 14, during the celebration of the 239th Marine Corps Birthday Ball. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Corporal Shawn Valosin/Released)
Sailors from Naval Computer and Telecommunications Station Sigonella and Sigonella's First Class Petty Officer Association clean-up Etna Park on Nov. 22 as part of the ongoing NAS Sigonella Public Affairs Office (PAO) Community Relations (COMREL) project. (Photos by Irene Campanella)
U.S. service members and their families from Naval Air Station Sigonella perform a choir concert during a community relations event on Dec. 6. (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Ramon Go/Released)
NAS Sigonella Commanding Officer, Capt. Chris Dennis salutes newly frocked Master-at-Arms 3rd Class Jennifer Davis during a frocking ceremony held Nov 26. Fifty-five Sailors were advanced. To see pictures of each individual frockee go to Page 8. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tony D. Curtis/Released).
Naval Air Station Sigonella community members and families gather for the annual tree-lighting ceremony, Dec. 5. (Photo courtesy of Morale, Welfare, and Recreation NAS Sigonella)
Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella chaplain Lt. Adam Bayer and Religious Program Specialist 2nd Class Sean Hancock met with local middle school children to talk about the Thanksgiving tradition as part of the NAS Sigonella Public Affairs Office Community Relations Program, Nov. 25 and 26. Students and teachers welcomed the Navy representatives who told them about the history of the first Thanksgiving and how today’s American families celebrate this holiday. (Photos by Irene Campanella)
Intl & foster care adoptions, home studies, post adoption services. Hague accredited agency. www.adopt-abroad.com - US 1-888-687-3644. Renting apartment near Parco Terme di Acireale, 5 rooms, 1 living room, 2 baths, large kitchen, storage room, 2 terraces, car space. messinafiordolivo@gmail.com
Naval Air Station Sigonella community members dance the "Cha-Cha Slide" during the 2014 Christmas party held at Midtown, Dec. 12. (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Ramon Go/ Released)
Arrivederci 2014 - Benvenuto 2015
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - When the service member receives orders to deploy, your first impulse may be to pack up your belongings and move back home to more familiar surroundings, especially if you haven’t been married for long. While there are advantages to being among family and old friends while your spouse is away, there are many benefits to staying in your military community. Before making a decision, it’s important to think through the pros and cons of staying or moving. Deciding what's right for you The decision to stay or leave is a personal one that will depend on a number of factors, including the following: • Your ties to the community where you live — If you have lived on or near the installation for a while, you've probably developed support systems that can help you while your spouse is away. The people in these communities maybe able to help you with any challenges you encounter during the deployment. • Your children — It's easier to pick up and move if you don't have children. But if you have a baby or toddler, you may want to live with relatives who can help you care for them. If your children are older, moving may be disruptive, especially if they are in school and involved with sports, lessons, or other organized activities. • Whether you have a place to move to — If you plan to move back in with a parent or other relative, how do they feel about sharing their home with you and perhaps your children? Although moving back home may be done with the best of intentions, it can also create added stress. • Your finances — Moving means paying transportation costs for you and your children twice — once when you leave, and again when you return to the installation. You will also have to pay to transport or store your furniture and other possessions. • Your willingness to spend the time before your spouse deploys preparing to move — If there's enough notice before the deployment, you and your spouse may want to take a last-minute vacation or just be together without the distraction of packing up your home, canceling services, and looking for a new place to live. • Your housing situation — If you will be paying rent in a new location, it may not be covered by your Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH). BAH is based on the housing market in the area where the installation is located. If rent is more expensive back home, then you’ll have to cover the difference yourself. If you live in government quarters, you may not be able to keep your housing if you leave. Check with the housing office to find out whether you can leave your place vacant until you return after the deployment. • Your need for special medical treatment — If you have a child in the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP), the special care he or she receives may not be as readily available in your new location. Advantages of remaining on the installation Your reasons for wanting to move back home when your service member deploys are good ones. You may need a break from the military lifestyle and the constant reminders of the deployment by others. You may look forward to the love and support that your extended family and old friends can give you. Before you make up your mind, it's important to consider the advantages of remaining at the installation until your service member comes home: • Access to installation services — If you stay on or near your installation, you'll have easy access to the commissary, exchange, recreational activities, family and community support, legal assistance, and other services. • Family readiness and unit activities — Many installations have special activities and programs for family members of deployed service members. This is a good way to meet others in your situation and to stay connected with your spouse's unit. • Medical care — If you need to see a health care provider while you're living away from the installation, you may not be able to find a preferred provider and you could end up spending more for medical treatment. Visit the TRICARE website for more information on medical services in different areas. • Other military families to turn to for support — It can be comforting to be with people who share your experience or have already been through a deployment. Friends and family back home may not understand the military lifestyle or the unique circumstances of a deployed service member. • Safety and security — You and your service member may have peace of mind knowing that you’re in a familiar environment on or near a military installation. • Keeping children's routines intact — Your children may enjoy visiting their grandparents or other relatives, but leaving home to move in with them — even temporarily — will disrupt your children's normal routines. • A chance to settle in — If you recently moved to the installation, you can start putting down roots while your service member is away. His or her transition back home after deployment will be easier if routines have been established and the family is settled. If you decide to move closer to family Once you have considered all the options, you may decide that moving closer home is the right choice for you and your family. If you decide to move • Give your contact information to your spouse's unit. Though it sounds obvious, be sure to give your spouse your new address and phone number. • Contact TRICARE. Talk with a TRICARE representative to help you understand how your health care benefits will cover you and your family. • Notify installation housing or your landlord that you will be moving out. • Change your address at the post office. Otherwise your mail won't be forwarded. • Keep in touch with the Family Readiness Group. Be sure they have your contact information. You may want to visit the units website to stay connected. • Look for ways to connect with other military spouses or support programs. Your local Red Cross chapter or the State Family Program at the Joint Forces Headquarters is a good place to start.
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