VP-4 Giving back to community
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Santorini:
Safety First:
Get lost in the Greek Isles
Safety stand down
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N A S SIG O N E L L A
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May 27, 2016
Vol. 33 No. 21
Sig' Citizens Make Relay For Life a Success
Volunteers from the community broke out their tents and set up camp to raise money and awareness for the American Cancer Society during Relay for Life. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Luke Askew/Released) By mc3 luke askew NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Volunteers from the community broke out their tents and set up camp to raise awareness for the American Cancer Society during Relay For Life. For 24 hours community members walked lap after lap to show their dedication to helping those affected by cancer. Over 5,000 Relay For Life events are held each year in more than 20 countries. Relay For Life raises money in many ways from donations based on laps walked by volunteers, auctions, and donations from local businesses. It is estimated that the Relay has raised over $5 billion for cancer research and patient care to date. Cancer has touched the lives of almost every-
body in some way, whether it is through family, friends or personally. The most effective way to fight this destructive disease is by informing people on ways to protect themselves from the causes, detect the early warning signs and support those affected. Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Danny Buck headed up the event as the chairperson for the second year in a row. He uses his experience with cancer in his family to help inform others and raise awareness for research and support. “It’s all about paying it forward because you never know when it will strike you or your family,” said Buck. Cancer does not discriminate. It can affect anyone from any age, race or religion. However there are ways to protect yourself by avoiding cancer causing substances and situations. One of the most
common forms of cancer can be avoided simply by wearing sunscreen when going out in the sun. Also smoking or using tobacco products is known to be a cause of many types of cancer. Avoiding the causes of cancer can help lower your chances of contracting the disease, but it is still important to know the early warning signs of cancer. Checking for moles and bumps on a regular basis can help to alert you to a potential problem. The American Cancer Society uses the money raised during Relay for Life to help support cancer victims and their families through the expensive and difficult treatment of the disease. Commands from all around base showed up this year to support the event. This fun and family friendly event is a great way to bring the community together to rally for an important cause.
Sigonella Celebrates Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month By MA3 Shane sullivan NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – A moment to remember differences, an opportunity to celebrate cultural traditions and a lifetime to encourage unity symbolizes Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) heritage month. HM1 Vandola, President of the Sigonella Filipino American Association helped coordinate the celebration while offering delicious desserts outside of the NAS 2 Galley. Lumpia, pancit and lechon baboy were just a few courses served during lunch. The entrees represented main courses prepared for huge festivities within the Filipino culture. In addition to the wonderful food served, the event incorporated slideshows, posters, guest speakers and traditional ensembles in recognition of Asian and Pacific Islander ancestry and tradition. The month of May commemorates and acknowledges numerous achievements and contributions of AAPIs. From the Philippine-American War to the Vietnam War, 33 AAPIs have been awarded the highest military honor, the Medal of Hon-
or. The first Filipino infantry of the U.S. Army “Regiment Coat of Arms” fought alongside Soldiers in the defense of Philippines. The Chinese American Composite Wing (CACW) also known as the "Flying Tigers" never lost a bomber to enemy fighters in WWII. The 442nd Regimental Combat Team comprised of Japanese ancestry was the most decorated unit for size and length of service during WWII. Let’s not forget, Seaman First Class Florence Smith Finch, a Filipino American who was the first woman reserve to receive the Asiatic Pacific Campaign Ribbon for her contributions and service in the United States Coast Guard. During a time of racial and cultural prejudices, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders helped develop and defend the United States. Vladimir Narvaez, Filipino American, Transportation Officer for Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) and retired Master Chief spoke to attendees and Sailors at the Galley to explain the significance of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage month through the eyes of a Filipino American Sailor. Narvaez began his journey as an airman, at 17-years-old. In 1989, during
Women in traditional dress pose for a photo during a celebration in honor of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month at the NAS 2 Galley. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Luke Askew/Released)
the height of the Cold War, Narvaez enlisted in the U.S. Navy as an apprentice having to prove his intentions and commitment to his Shipmates. Today, Narvaez has noticed a tremendous change
for the greater good of diversity awareness in the military. He believes understanding one another will strengthen relations among Americans as the next chapters of history are written.