Ho'okele News - April 22, 2016

Earth Day!

Why the world needs Earth Day See page A-4

April 22, 2016

Worldwide voyage, ... is in the stars See page A-5

Pulling together to clean up beach See page A-6

Thank you, PMRF See page B-1

www.cnic.navy.mil/hawaii www.hookelenews.com

Volume 7 Issue 15

Base commander signs Child Abuse Prevention proclamation Story and photo by Anna Marie G. General Managing Editor, Ho’okele Capt. Stanley Keeve, Jr., commander of Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, signed a proclamation banner in support of Child Abuse Prevention Month during a pinwheel planting ceremony at the Center Drive Child Development Center (CDC), April 15.

Hosted by the Military and Family Support Center (MFSC), this year ’s theme “Children Thrive When Supervised, Safe and Sound” invokes awareness that children deserve our utmost protection and care, and to ensure that they have a fair chance to thrive.

“It’s important to bring awareness to the fact that we do have child abuse that happens in America.

It’s unfortunate, but it does happen. By bringing awareness, we can hopefully move forward and make things better for the children of today and the children of tomorrow,” Keeve said.

During the event, children from CDC also participated in the signing of the

Capt. Stanley Keeve, Jr., commander of Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam and children from the Center Drive Child Development Center, signed a child abuse prevention month awareness banner, April 15. proclamation banner, followed by a pinwheel planting ceremony and parade.

“The pinwheel symbolizes a message to protect all children. As the wind

blows the pinwheels, the message of protection is sent out to the community,” said Marissa Ayag-Garcia, counseling and advocacy supervisor of MFSC.

According to Prevent Child Abuse America, pinwheels for prevention is a national symbol for the great childhoods all children deserve because

our children are our future. It connotes whimsy and childlike notions and serves as the physical embodiment, or reminder of the great childhoods we

want for our children.

“We see these wonderful kids here having a great time, but it does remind us that they are fragile and we need to do all we can to protect them. So that’s why it is important—to stop, pause and realize that every child doesn’t have some of the great things that we have here at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam. We have to do our part by bringing awareness to this incident, this situation to make this cause better for our future,” Keeve said.

In addition, CDC also celebrated Month of the Military Child with refreshments and a carnival to conclude the event.

According to the Center for Disease Control, about nine million children are treated in emergency rooms for various types of injuries and 9,000 of them will die from their injuries each year. Research has proven that parents and child caregivers can prevent many childhood injuries by keeping them supervised, safe and sound.

For more information on child abuse prevention, visit www.ffsp.navy.mil.

DBIDS to enhance security measures at JBPHH Blair Martin Gradel Public Affairs, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam

Sexual assault expert Anne Munch visits Joint Base to raise awareness Story and photo by MC2 Jeff Troutman

Sexual assault expert Anne Munch spoke to military service members and civilians assigned to Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam April 14 during a Sexual Assault and Prevention Response event at the Ford Island Conference Center.

The event was designed to encourage and spread sexual assault awareness during the month of April, which is designated by the Department of Defense as Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month.

Munch, an attorney and victim-advocate, is known around the world for visiting with military installations to talk about the dangers and perceptions of sexual assault. “ I t a l k about sexual assault from a different perspective,” Munch said.

“I’m not here to talk about this crime from a restricted or unrestricted reporting-type way. I use a lot of storytelling and courtroom experience when I speak to service members, and I ask them to challenge their own thinking and to not just be here in uniform as part of their job, but to be here as the human being they’ve been raised to be thus far and to really examine how they look at the topic of sexual assault.”

Munch’s training focused on providing a closer look at victims, offenders and the role bystanders play in preventing sexual assaults from happening. Using recorded 911 calls and personal experiences with both victims and sex offenders, Munch’s training strived to increase awareness and understanding while fulfilling a mandatory military-wide training requirement.

“Sexual assault prevention requires the active involvement of each and every one here,” said Capt. Stanley Keeve Jr., commander, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam. “It requires a commitment to own our culture, and we do that by raising awareness and being committed to stopping sexual assaults from happening, not just

today and not just this month, but throughout the year itself.”

Munch implored those in attendance to continue reporting cases of sexual assault to their chain of command and to the proper authorities in the event they or someone they know feel they’ve been a victim of sexual assault.

“If we don’t question sexual assault and work to educate people on the realities of this crime, we create a perfect environment for perpetrators,” Munch said. “The good news is, service members are reporting more cases of sexual assault and survivors are coming forward a lot more than they were even just a few years ago, and that’s a trend that needs to continue.”

For more information regarding April’s theme of sexual assault prevention, the Sexual Assault and Prevention office or visit http://ow.ly/4mV5TQ

Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam will begin transitioning its electronic access systems to the Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS).

A Department of Defense (DoD) owned and operated system, DBIDS is a significant enhancement to military installation force protection and improves the management of base access and screening of civilian and military personnel at DoD installations.

According to Tech Sgt. Travis B. Martho, from JBPHH Pass and ID and 647th Security Forces Squadron, the goal of the program is to utilize a comprehensive database that provides quick and reliable information to validate and verify access for all personnel entering JBPHH. “Additionally, DBIDS allows law enforcement to utilize the DBIDS database to inform entry control points of any wants, warrants, missing persons, as well as ‘Be on the Lookout’ (BOLO) notifications within seconds,” Martho said.

The transition period will begin in a staggered basis with ID card registration at installation

gates from April 25 to May 20, with full implementation beginning May 21 at JBPHH and its annexes at Wahiawa, West Loch, and Lualualei.

According to Martho, the DBIDS program is meant only to enhance security measures already in place.

As he explained, the program will benefit the base by providing fully integrated identity management and force protection capability. For example, DBIDS provides entry controllers with details, such as a photo, access dates, times, security warnings, wants, warrants and other information that can assist with verifying installation access.

“DBIDS integrates multiple technologies to facilitate positive electronic identification of personnel,” he said. “Additionally, DBIDS makes it very difficult to fake an identity or use someone else’s ID card in order to gain installation access.”

Please note, that during the transition period, personnel might experience slight delays at installation access points when gate personnel scans an ID card for the first time.

For more information on DBIDS, please visit https:// dbids.dmdc.mil/my.policy or contact JBPHH Pass and ID office at 449-0872 or 449-0865.

FIST2FAC: The future of Navy combat training?

April 22, 2016

Ho‘okele A-2

USS Michael Murphy participates in virtual training program Warren Duffie

Office of Naval Research Public Affairs ARLINGTON, Va.— Sailors aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Michael Murphy (DDG 112) recently participated in a virtual training program demonstration training at the Fleet Integrated Synthetic Training/Testing Facility (FIST2FAC) at Ford Island.

According to an official ann o u n c e m e n t o n A p r i l 11 , the Office of Naval Research (ONR), with support from members of its reserve component, demonstrated new and improved training technology.

FIST2FAC develops, tests, and demonstrates simulator training technology blending live-action exercises with virtual assets and adversaries.

“This is the future of training for the Navy,” said Terry Allard, head of ONR’s Warfighter Performance Department. “With simulation, you can explore endless possibili-

U.S. Navy photo by John F. Williams

Sailors aboard the USS Michael Murphy (DDG 112) defend against virtual enemy combatants in a demonstration at Ford Island, March 24. ties without the expense and logistical challenges of putting hundreds of ships at sea and aircraft in the sky.”

FIST2FAC combines a hassle-free setup, software and gaming technology to help naval forces develop strategies for diverse missions and operations. It allows Sailors to interact with artificially intelligent forces in countless virtual settings—and train for multiple missions simultaneously. The

system can replicate situations involving aircraft carriers, helicopters (in this case, a squadron from Marine Corps Base Hawaii), lethal and non-lethal weapons, and more.

“FIST2FAC was created in response to an urgent need for a more portable way for ships to train in any given operating area,” said Glenn White, ONR’s integration and transition manager for the project.

“It allows Sailors to ‘train like

they fight’ by presenting realistic forces in a visual, tactical and operational environment.”

FIST2FAC, which was developed with support from the Naval Undersea Warfare Center Keyport Division, has demonstrated simulator technology since 2010. The latest event showcased improved capabilities and new enhancements to FIST2FAC training simulators: •The bridge of USS Michael Murphy at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam was equipped with an array of computer screens and big-screen television monitors, allowing it to engage in virtual combat scenarios while maintaining contact with Ford Island.

•Sailors operating the 50-caliber machine gun on the ship wore augmented-reality glasses, enabling them to see virtual enemy combatants within a live physical setting.

•Participants on Ford Island and the destroyer experienced degraded radar, video streaming and communications, mirroring the effects of an enemy jamming communication signals.

•A virtual adversary vocally hailed the participants, speak-

ing in a foreign language as well as broken English.

White said the technology demonstrated at FIST2FAC is a valuable tool for the Navy for two main reasons—savings and security.

The software is reusable and can be modified for different environments. By comparison, it costs about $250,000 just to get an aircraft carrier out for live training and approximately $6 million to fuel a strike group for a week. A live event lasting six to 10 hours may cost a million dollars.

The ability to recreate so many combat scenarios anywhere also is useful in training for any challenge a ship might face worldwide—from vessel maintenance to landing a fighter jet to navigating hostile waters.

Currently, FIST2FAC is shore based, but one day White wants to make the capabilities developed there available to ships at sea, he said.

“The ultimate goal is to wrap a destroyer in an augmented world where everyone throughout the ship can see virtual vessels, aircraft and adversaries and train to respond appropriately,” White said.

AMC PAX terminal set to undergo renovations Story and photo by Tech. Sgt. Terri Paden 15th Wing Public Affairs The 735th Air Mobility Squadron passenger terminal at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam is set to undergo renovations beginning May 1.

The remodeling will take place in three stages, and will take approximately two years to complete. Phase one will be May to April 2017, phase two will be from May to October 2017, and phase three will be from November 2017 to May 2018.

According to Staff Sgt. Kyle Holmes, 735th AMS Facilities and

Programs non-commissioned officer-in-charge, the renovation will address several issues that have been problematic in the past.

“We will be bringing t h e p l u m b i n g , H VA C and fire suppression system up to code,” he said.

“Most of the changes will happen behind the walls but some changes, such as adding new public restrooms, a new passenger service counter, and security wall, will be more visible,” Holmes said.

The terminal layout will also be renovated to make it more efficient for passengers.

Holmes said though some of the renovations

will be apparent, the only true effect on customers will be a shift in where they will in-process for flights.

“During phase one, the passenger service operations will happen on the opposite side of the building. During phase two and three, operations will move outside of the terminal into the temporary trailers and tents.”

1st Lt. Kimberly Robinson, 735th AMC Passenger Services officer in charge, said because the terminal was built in the 1970s, it’s in need of some major updates; however, not everything is changing.

“One thing that will

2nd Lt. Tyler Stevens, former 735th Air Mobility Squadron Passenger and Fleet Service Flight officer in charge, explains procedures at Joint Base, Oct. 9, 2014. not change is how far our Airmen will go to help our customers,” she said. “We ask for

patience as we further years to come.”

For more information, improve our Passenger Terminal so we can v i s i t h t t p : / / 1 . u s a . g o v make it better for the /1rm970e

USS Chung-Hoon honors Sigsbee Sailors (Far right) Sailors aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS ChungHoon (DDG 93) parade the colors during a ceremony in honor of USS Sigsbee (DD 502) in the western Pacific, April 14.

(Right) Ensign Stefanie M. Cotner, a native of Heath, Texas, commits flowers to the sea during the ceremony aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Chung-Hoon.

U.S. Navy photos by MC2 Marcus L. Stanley

Spouses club supports the mission – HOSC recognized by PACAF Tech. Sgt. Terri Paden 15th Wing Public Affairs At Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, the Hickam Officers’ Spouses Club (HOSC) is a part of the support system that is behind all Airmen, working hard in the community to ensure Airmen and their families are well taken care of.

The HOSC is a nonprofit organization that organizes social and recreational activities for its members, and supports charitable and educational endeavors.

“The HOSC aims to bring our spouses together to build relationships and a support network, while having fun,” said Carrie Payne, HOSC president.

“Through our philanthropic endeavors we give back to the community

we live in, both on and off base.”

Payne said one of the organization’s more unique accomplishments is their work with the Hickam Thrift Shop. “ H i c k a m ’s [ O S C ] i s unique because we operate the extremely successful Hickam Thrift Shop,” said Payne. “The money raised is utilized for our grants and scholarships programs. We have worked diligently this year to reduce overhead at the thrift shop, ensuring we maximize our philanthropic endeavors.”

In fact, the thrift shop staff and volunteers worked so hard, the HOSC has been able to grant more than $60,000 in grants to deserving members of the Joint base community.

“The grants

awarded by the HOSC offer our largest contribution to the community,” Payne said. “This year we were honored to award grants to the First Sergeants’ Association, Hickam Airman’s Attic, and many other organizations. The funding provided allows these organizations to positively impact the base community.”

The HOSC also finds other ways to give back and sup-

port Airmen and their families, including the annual Snacks with Santa and Cookie Caper holiday events, the Easter egg hunt, Keiki safety fair, National Night Out, USO Operation Birthday Cake, and the Airmen and Family Readiness Center’s coffee outreach social.

Payne said the club continuously searches for ways to enhance the lives of Airmen and their families and works with the 15th Wing to identify potential service projects. The diligent work of Payne and the HOSC was recently recognized by top community leaders.

“It was a privilege to recognize the leadership of Mrs. Carrie

Payne by giving her a military coin,” said Maj. Gen. Mark Dillon, Pacific Air Forces vice commander.

“Carrie leads an inspirational OSC team that gives back to our community throughout the year.

Whether it’s providing financial scholarships to military dependents or giving grants to deserving youth and Hickam groups, Carrie and her HOSC team improve the quality of life for all our members and their families. I laud Carrie and her amazing team for their continued generosity and support to the entire Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Ohana.”

According to Payne, the HOSC also offers spouses a chance to build lifelong friendships, support systems and network.

“As a private organization, the HOSC is different from the AFRC because we not only provide resources but friendship,” she said. “Friendships made at the HOSC can span decades. Our philanthropic endeavors can affect change for years to come. The HOSC has the ability to award grants to community organizations, thus building community relations.”

For more information or to join the HOSC, visit http://www.hickamosc. com/.

April 22, 2016

Ho‘okele A-3

‘Dreams Come True … in Green, Blue Hawaii’ Every Day is Earth Day Here

Rear Adm. John Fuller

Commander, Navy Region Hawaii and Naval Surface Group Middle Pacific

What is your favorite endangered or threatened species?

Lt. j.g. Fleet White

USS Olympia (SSN 717) “Koala bears, because they are cute and cuddly.”

Staff Sgt. Crystol Brown

15th Comptroller Squadron “Sea turtles, because as part of every ecosystem, every animal has its place or plays their part. Sea turtles protect the sea grass that house many fish and in turn helps commercial fisheries that provide us with food.”

Logistics Specialist First Class (SW/AW) Froilan Revilla

Afloat Training Group Middle Pacific “Philippine monkey-eating eagle: It is the symbol of the Philippines and I am from the Philippines.”

Master Sgt. Mike Free

15th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron “Grouper, because they’re a part of the sea bass family. My favorite is the goliath grouper that can reach up to 800 pounds.

Lt. Cmdr. Ken St. Germain

Naval Information Operations Command Hawaii “Snow leopard. It’s a big cat and survives in harsh environments.”

Elvis Presley brought Hawaii to the silver screen 55 years ago in “Blue Hawaii,” a movie which spawned a #1 album and a cover of the famous song with the lyrics, “dreams come true in blue Hawaii.”

Elvis, by the way, was a huge supporter of our military.

On March 18, 1961— just three days before recording the soundtrack to Blue Hawaii—Elvis gave a charity concert at our historic Bloch Arena. The concert raised funds for the USS Arizona Memorial.

But, getting back to blue—and green—Hawaii, there is a reason the 50th state captures the world’s imagination on screen and especially in person.

The spirit of aloha ranks at the top of the state’s attractions, along with the beautiful oceans, beaches, mountains, valleys and sky.

Hawaii’s natural beauty brings millions of visitors to the islands each year.

Those of us who are fortunate to be stationed in Hawaii feel a deep sense of belonging and

Rear Adm. John Fuller appreciation. It’s literally a “dream come true” to live and work here. We learn about the culture, experience great diversity, and work to preserve the environment as part of the ohana.

I’m so proud to see the time and effort our Sailors, airmen, civilians and family members donate to beach and bike path cleanups.

At the Pacific Missile Range Facility (PMRF) on Kauai and at the Joint Base here on Oahu, we actively work to protect endangered birds and plants. Our commands embrace renewable energy and promote innovative ways to increase energy efficiency and energy conservation.

I’ve been impressed by how seriously we take our energy and environment responsibilities.

Two years ago, when workers discovered de-

cades-old hazardous military debris buried under the track and football field at Radford High School, we took full responsibility and began remediation.

Now the debris is gone and the field is pristine and green again.

More than two years ago, when 27,000 gallons of fuel was lost at Red Hill fuel facility, our Navy team responded to prevent further losses.

Today, we continue to modernize the facili t y, u p d a t e o p e r a t i n g procedures, increase oversight and keep the public informed. We are absolutely committed to keeping the drinking water safe.

Since 2006, we invested $192 million to continue modernizing Red Hill and for environmental tests. We plan to invest additional millions over the next five years in addition to any work required from the Administrative Order on Consent. For example, we recently awarded more than $43 million in contracts to upgrade the facility’s fire suppression, ventilation and oil-tight door systems.

We are taking a deliberate, engineering-based approach with EPA/DOH approval and oversight to avoid a rush to failure or cause unintentional dam-

age to the environment.

Our Navy is moving away from fossil fuels and embracing renewable energy wherever possible.

At this moment, USS Chung-Hoon (DDG 93) is forward deployed and visiting Singapore as part of the worldwide Great Green Fleet, demonstrating the power of alternative energy.

A n o t h e r P e a r l H a rbor homeported ship, USS Chafee (DDG 90), along with PMRF, won the Chief of Naval Operations and Secretary of the Navy Environmental awards for 2015.

Energy conservation goes hand-in-hand with protecting the environment, and our Resident Energy Conservation Program is successfully incentivizing savings— both in electricity and in finances—for families in privatized housing. We are looking to do more.

Earth Day is a good occasion to thank our military ohana for all you are doing in “malama aina, malama kai”—caring for the land, caring for the sea.

We recognize April 22 as Earth Day, but some say every day should be Earth Day, especially here—where dreams come true in “green and blue Hawaii.”

Elvis performs at Bloch Arena

Staff Sgt. Christopher Morris

15th Medical Operations Squadron “Malayan tiger. I’m not sure if people realize that the tiger image is seen right before you start a Mandalay Pictures film. The Malayan tiger to me is a beautiful animal. My wife would have a fit if I brought a 220-pound tiger home so I’ll just admire it from afar.”

Operations Specialist Second Class (SW) Skylar Searle Commander Naval Surface Forces Middle Pacific

“Panda bear, it’s important to Asian community and cool to see at the zoo.”

Provided by Lt. j.g. Jacqueline Muslin and David D. Underwood Jr.

Want to see your command featured in Diverse Views?

Got opinions to share?

Drop us a line at editor@hookelenews.com

Correction

Elvis Presley, wearing his trademark gold lamé suit and lei, performs at Bloch Arena at Pearl Harbor, March 25, 1961.

The concert was a fundraiser for the Arizona Memorial.

The article “Seabees build two new ramps at Wahiawa CDC” in the April 15 issue of Ho‘okele had an incorrect credit for the article. It should have said “story by Construction Electrician 2nd Class (SCW) Seth A. Weaver, Public Works Department, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Seabee Division.”

Commander, Navy Region Hawaii Rear Adm. John V. Fuller

Director, Navy Region Hawaii Public Affairs Agnes Tauyan

Chief of Staff Capt. Mark Manfredi

Deputy Director, Public Affairs Bill Doughty

Commander, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Capt. Stanley Keeve Jr. Deputy Commander Col. Richard Smith

Director, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Public Affairs Grace Hew Len

Photo courtesy of Honolulu Star-Advertiser

Managing Editor Anna Marie General Editor Don Robbins Assistant Editor Brandon Bosworth Sports Editor Randy Dela Cruz Sr. Graphic Artist Antonio Verceluz Graphic Artist Michelle Poppler

Ho‘okele is a free unofficial paper published every Friday by The Honolulu Star Advertiser 500 Ala Moana Boulevard Suite 7-500 Honolulu Hawaii 96813, a private firm in no way connected with DoD, the U. S. Navy, Air Force or Marine Corps, under exclusive contract with Commander, Navy Region Hawaii. All editorial content is prepared, edited, provided and approved by the staff of the Commander, Navy Region Hawaii Public Affairs Office: 850 Ticonderoga, Suite 110, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, 968604884. Telephone: (808) 473-2888; fax (808) 473-2876; e-mail address: editor@hookelenews.com World Wide Web address: https://www.cnic.navy.mil/Hawaii/ or www. hookelenews.com. This civilian enterprise newspaper is an authorized publication primarily for members of the Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps military services and their families in Hawaii. Its contents do not necessarily reflect the official views of the U. S. Government, the Department of Defense, the U.S. Navy, Air Force or Marine Corps and do not imply endorsement thereof.

The civilian publisher, The Honolulu Star Advertiser, is responsible for commercial advertising, which may be purchased by calling (808) 521-9111.

The appearance of advertising in this newspaper, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement of the products and services advertised by the Department of Defense, the U.S. Navy, Air Force or Marine Corps, Commander, Navy Region Hawaii or The Honolulu Star Advertiser. Everything advertised in this paper shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user or patron. A confirmed violation of this policy of equal opportunity by an advertiser will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source. Ho‘okele is delivered weekly to Navy & Air Force housing units and Navy and Air Force installations throughout Oahu.

April 22, 22, 2016 2016 Ho‘okele Ho‘okele A-4 A-4 April

Why the world needs Earth Day

The following is a conversation with Navy Region Hawaii Environmental Counsel Becky Hommon

Question: Why does the world need Earth Day? Answer: Earth Day started when we realized some of the consequences of over-development and our general belief that the earth had an infinite capacity to absorb whatever pollution we were throwing at it. We still need Earth Day to remind ourselves that our actions as individuals and collectively still matter. We really can make this world a better place.

But we all have to act.

Q: How has the military changed over the years in its concern for the environment?

A: It’s been astounding. Not only has professional staffing with environmental protection experts increased exponentially, leadership embraces the concept. We all understand that no one wants a military base in their back yard if the people at that base trash the community.

Today, military bases provide the best-protected habitat for threatened and endangered species, outside of refuges run

by U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.

Just look at the Pacific Missile Range on Kauai.

PMRF is known by wildlife professionals and advocates as the safest place on Kauai for threatened green sea turtles, endangered Hawaiian monk seals and endangered

U.S. Navy file photo

Seaman Anthony Arebalo, assigned to Joint Base Pearl HarborHickam, collects trash along Kamehameha Highway outside the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, June 22, 2011. wetland birds. Everyone knows PMRF has done more as to turning off lights to avoid harming night fledging seabirds than any other place on Kauai. I wouldn’t say I was mocked years ago when I first starting letting people know there was laws that required us to protect the environment, but it was close.

Q: What would people be surprised to know about how ships operate at sea, for example, in protecting marine mammals?

A: That the men and women who serve on these ships love to whale watch and see dolphins race alongside just as much as anyone else, if not more so. I don’t think the general public comprehends that our sonar technicians can identify the

species of many life forms in the ocean by the sounds they make.

Our Americans at sea bring with them wherever they go their values, which include a love of nature, a love of the amazing variety of life on this planet. Some of our best nature photographers are or were members of the U.S. armed services. You don’t lose that love of nature when you put on a uniform.

Q: Recently, PMRF was awarded the SECNAV Environmental Award for 2015 for small installations. What are they doing that is so award-worthy?

A: PMRF continues to ramp up its environmental protection programs especially around the natural resources that

are on the base, and does so with Kauai partners. Because PMRF is so small and the staff so tight with the Kauai community, they can accomplish amazing things. The most recent story is their effort with U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and other groups to re-establish a Laysan albatross colony on Oahu with eggs from PMRF on Kauai transported on regular flights to Kaneohe. These majestic six-foot wing span birds that float on the breeze are of course a bird/aircraft strike hazard, known as BASH. Years ago we had a permit to smash eggs and wring the necks of any chicks born on the base. It was legal but we didn’t feel very good about it. We realized there had to be a better idea. And there was.

PMRF staff worked with U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and U.S. Department of Agriculture people on Kauai to move the eggs to a national wildlife refuge. When the refuge reached its carrying capacity, the team thought that having a second albatross colony on Oahu would be a good idea so here we are, helping out. It’s a wonderful thing.

Q: Isn’t the military among the worst polluters and destroyers of the environment?

A: That’s so wrong. No. Just look to see who’s being fined and put out of business. It’s not the U.S. military. I’ve had many environmental professionals over the years recognize

our tight command and control as well as constant training.

That has benefits. People don’t stray too often.

When I’ve shown commercial fishermen our whale wheels and pollution wheels that are used on our ships, they want them, too. We’re not driven by profit. Our people are amazing at doing the right thing with few resources. And our leaders are some of the brightest and best. Our nation is very fortunate to have these talented men and women serving day after day, some in harm’s way, and doing the right thing.

Q: What’s your take on the current voyage of Hokulea and Malama Honua?

A: I know many people are headed to New York to welcome Hokulea to New York. Should be a great party.

Q: What can each of us do to be responsible citizens of the planet?

A: Oh, that’s easy. Spread a little aloha around the world.

The more we take care of each other, the more the planet benefits. Support national parks and national wildlife refuges not only within the United States but globally. It’s still the same: speak up when you see something that you’re not comfortable with, whether it’s something being rinsed down a drain or a turtle being chased. Heal the world. And thanks for asking. It’s been 30 years of good fun. Happy Earth Day!

Joint Base to celebrate Earth Day at Hickam Harbor April 23 Reid Tokeshi

Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Morale, Welfare and Recreation On April 23, the annual Earth Day Celebration will take place at Hickam Harbor.

There will be live musical

entertainment featuring the Navy’s Pacific Fleet Band as well as food vendors, information booths, events and activities to entertain and educate kids and adults.

The Earth Day Celebration begins at 11 a.m. Attendance is free and is open to all base-eligible patrons.

Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Morale, Welfare & Recreation (MWR) is presenting the Earth Day activities, organized and managed

by MWR’s Outdoor Recreation (ODR) department.

The weekend will be-

gin with camping April 22.

For more information on Advance registration is re- Earth Day events, call ODR quired for camping. As the at 449-5215. sun sets, ODR will set up a movie screen so people can view a family-friendly film under the stars.

Team Pearl rescues green sea turtle in shipyard dry docks Story and photo

by Gail Shon

Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard & Intermediate Maintenance Facility Occupational Safety, Health & Environment Department After the undocking of USS Olympia (SSN 717) Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard and Intermediate Maintenance Facility (PHNSYand IMF) workers noticed a large green sea turtle (in Hawaiian, a “honu”) trapped in a dry dock aft during the dewatering operation.

The green sea turtle is an endangered species protected by the Endangered Species Act, so action was taken immediately to notify the shipyard’s docking officer and Occupational Safety, Health & Environment Department, which then closely monitored the dewatering operation to ensure the turtle would not be injured.

A shipyard crane and rigging team from the Rigging and Equipment Operations Division lowered an empty rigging gear storage box into the dry dock to safely remove the turtle. PHNSY and IMF Regional Diving Division divers surrounded

U.S. Navy photo by MC3 Andre T. Richard

Ships assigned to the John C. Stennis Strike Group steam together during Maritime Counter Special Operations Force (MCSOF) exercise, as part of the Great Green Fleet on a regularly scheduled 7th Fleet deployment, March 24.

Great Green Fleet arrives in Singapore the large turtle, gently lifted it into the box and quickly filled the box with seawater. The box was then craned over the dry dock caisson and lowered to Shipyard divers waiting in Pearl Harbor on a dive boat. The divers gently lifted the honu (nicknamed “Oly”) out of the box and released him safely into the harbor waters.

“This is the 993rd turtle rescued since the Marine Turtle Research Program began in 1990,” said Shandell Brunson of the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Cory Campora, Naval Facilities Engineering Command Hawaii’s (NAVFAC HI) Natural Resources manager said, “The divers doing this rescue were educated on how to handle sea turtles by a NOAA staff member the last

time this happened, so they were confident they could safely move the turtle without injury.”

“Some people don’t realize we have green sea turtles in the harbor, and are excited and surprised when one shows up,” stated Rebecca Smith, NAVFAC Hawaii’s Natural Resources Management specialist.

The Navy coordinates closely with NOAA on all marine life rescues in and around the harbor. To notify NOAA of any endangered or threatened marine animals that appear to be injured, stranded, entangled, dead, swimming, sleeping, ha rassed and/or attacked in or around our piers, dry docks and shoreline, please call (808) 722-7285.

MC1 Jason Noble USS John C. Stennis Group Public Affairs CHANGI NAVAL BASE, Singapore —The John C. Stennis Strike Group (JCSSG), the centerpiece of the Great Green Fleet, and the 8,500 Sailors attached arrived in Singapore for a regularly scheduled port visit, April 19.

The visit to the “Lion City” affords the opportunity to enjoy one of the most diverse ports in the world. Rear Adm. Ron Boxall, commander, JCSSG, expects the visit to be a memorable one.

“Singapore is one of the most wonderful countries in the world,” said Boxall. “It is a model in terms of diverse cultures living together, and our visit here is a fantastic opportunity to enhance partnerships, develop goodwill, and create friendships.”

USS John C. Stennis moored at Changi Naval base with the guided-missile cruiser USS Mobile Bay and the guided-missile destroyers USS Chung-Hoon and USS William P. Lawrence after participating in Exercise Balikatan 2016, an annual bilateral training exercise that is a sig-

nature element of the Philippine-U.S. alliance, focused on humanitarian assistance, maritime law enforcement and environmental protection.

Logistics Specialist 3rd Class Dishawnte Williams, from Atlanta, assigned to the Vigilantes of Strike Fighter Squadron 151, is excited about the port visit and seeing how unique the city is.

“I have heard plenty about [Singapore], I am ready to see it for myself,” said Williams. “I’m also excited to go to Universal Studios. I’ve been to Universal Orlando, so I am looking forward to the 18 rides that are strictly designed for the Singapore park.

So far in their western Pacific deployment, JCSSG has transited over 20,000 nautical miles using an advanced biofuel blend and other energy saving practices, to reduce fuel consumption and extend operational capabilities. They will depart the port visit to Singapore continuing to set the standard for energy conservation across the f leet.

April22, 22,2016 2016 Ho‘okele Ho‘okeleA-5 A-5 April

voyage The

of life

Story by Justice Vannatta Editor’s Note: The following article is reprinted from Shipyard Log “I really don’t know why it is that all of us are so committed to the sea, except I think it’s because in addition to the fact that the sea changes, and the light changes, and ships change, it’s because we all came from the sea.

And it is an interesting biological fact that all of us have in our veins the exact same percentage of salt in our blood that exists in the ocean, and, therefore, we have salt in our blood, in our sweat, in our tears. We are tied to the ocean.

And when we go back to the sea—whether it is to sail or to watch it—we are going back from whence we came.”

•John F. Kennedy As we set sail in the great voyage of our lives, seldom do we know what the changing tides may bring.

Though it is apparent, once we are in the proverbial storm, preparation is what sets us apart from sink or sail.

It was 25 years ago when I first heard of the voyage of Hokule’a. I was 12 years old, in middle school, and crew members, including master navigator and captain of the Hokule’a Nainoa Thompson, visited our campus for a show and tell assembly with our student body.

They began to tell grand sea tales of treading the vast, tumultuous blue ocean, to a much immersed and entertained 8th grade crowd. In detail, they described to us how the Hokule’a, a double-hulled Polynesian voyaging canoe, scaled a stampede of relentless Mount Everest-sized ocean waves, which, in the midst of an onslaught of hurricane-force winds, mercilessly pounded the hull into submission.

I could see the prideful glint in these navigators’ eyes. They had knowingly invested every bit of themselves into the pit of the abyss, and had emerged a little battered, a little bruised, but as resilient as ever. They had all shared in a life-changing experience, and in turn, subscribed to the fraternity of adventure, thrusting themselves into the voyage of the unknown… into the voyage of discovery.

I sat there, fascinated, with wide eyes and a fast-beating heart. This young man, so influential, so eager and naive, fixated on the wonderment of his own life. Where would the wind take me? What will it be like when I grow up?

The prospects of a young life, still anchored in place, impatiently waiting for its maiden voyage. The possibilities were endless, the opportunities boundless. I felt an insatiable desire to experience the great wide open, where my natural curiosity and penchant for exploration could be quenched.

As the crew members continued to talk and share their ocean anecdotes, it was clear that their nautical experiences were only matched by the depth of my enthusiasm and imagination.

There are times in life when things come full circle. Fast forward 25 years later.

I was lucky enough to meet Gary Yuen on his last day of work at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard & Intermediate Maintenance Facility. Gary dedicated 37 years of his professional career as a nuclear shipfitter to the shipyard’s Structural Group, and was off to enjoy his second career as head cook and crew member of the legendary Hokule’a.

To intimately witness a person at the precipice of a life transition is a real privilege. I could see that Yuen was sad to be leaving Pearl behind, but eager to set a new sail to a different frontier.

“No regrets,” he said, shaking his head. “No regrets.”

Since 1985, Yuen sailed on 10 voyages with the historical Hokule’a. He will rejoin the Hokule’a crew and the support ship Hikianalia in Cape Town, South Africa, as part of their “Malama Honua” (“Care for the Earth”) goodwill tour. Launched from Hawaii on May 18, 2014, the tour will take three years and cover more than 49,000 nautical miles with visits to more than 26 countries and 85 ports of call, without the use of any modern navigational instruments.

“It’s all about seeing new places, meeting new people and exchanging cultures,” Yuen said enthusiastically. “There is so much life out there in the world. You wouldn’t believe how fascinating it is.”

When I ex-

pressed to Yuen my desire to draw a correlation in this article between the Hokule’a and the submarines and ships in our Pacific Fleet, our conversation began to focus on the importance of the process of predictive planning and strategic preparation. Yuen explained its significance by telling me an unbelievable story of determination and triumph.

The preparation for the estimated $12 million “Malama Honua” tour took almost six years of dedicated planning. The mammoth task of organizing, training and forecasting for the extensive trip proved to be a colossal challenge.

“We prepared for everything and paid meticulous attention to details. Even the unforeseen took years to get right. All of this was done to ensure the crew’s safety, because their lives would be constantly at stake,” Yuen explained, his voice echoing a genuine concern.

One of the most important drills they ran was a “man-overboard” exercise, done over and over and over again, until each movement was engrained in their minds. Then they ran it again.

Yuen’s tale began 140 miles off the coast of the Cocos (Keeling) Islands, a territory of Australia located in the Indian Ocean, southwest of Christmas Island and approximately midway between Australia and Sri Lanka. At 2:30 a.m. local time, three crew members stood watch while the rest of the crew was sleeping. Without a moment’s notice, a freak squall burst upon Hokule’a.

Immediately, as Yuen went into “storm mode” and began to batten down the mast, out of nowhere a rogue wave swept over the vessel and caught Yuen in its grasp and launched him 20 feet over the side into the deep dark sea. As he was being thrown, Yuen tried to grab onto the first thing he could get his hands on that could keep him from going overboard.

Unfortunately, what he caught as he flew over the side was a very expensive bilge pump.

Realizing what he was holding, he began treading water frantically, while simultaneously fastening the bilge pump to his waistline with a dangling cable.

“Man overboard, man overboard!” the urgent shouts rang out.

Within minutes, Yuen had drifted 75 feet away from the Hokule’a, steadily slipping into the frenzied gloom.

“There were moments when I couldn’t even see the boat, the waves were so high and everything was so dark. I kept thinking to myself, just stay calm. This is what you train and prepare for.”

He continued drifting until the spotlight on the boat looked like a star in the sky, but he refused to quit.

“I kept thinking of my family, my wife. That’s what kept me paddling like heck.”

Around the 30-minute mark, as the crew struggled to get close to him through the constant lurching of the waves, fatigue began to set in.

“The water was freezing and that bilge pump was getting really heavy,” Yuen said with a chuckle. “So many times I just wanted to ditch the pump, but I would’ve felt so guilty if I lost it because that piece of equipment is so expensive and hard to get.”

Finally, after 44 minutes of Yuen treading the turbulent ocean, the Hokule’a got close enough for the crew to get a flotation ring around him and pull him safely aboard.

“I have never been so exhausted in my life!” exclaimed Yuen. “I was so out of breath, but so grateful to be alive,” he said, laughing. “If it wasn’t for our training and predictive planning, I might not be here today.”

As I listened to Yuen’s tale, I kept thinking of our Shipyard’s responsibility to keep the fleet’s ships and submarines “Fit to fight” so the servicemen and women who sail in them are safe out there on – and under – the sea. Each of us has a direct connection to them as we do our jobs here at Pearl, not only ensure they can honor their duty, but also to bring our ohana home safely.

Think of all the predictive planning and precautions we take to ensure our own families’ safety at home. Lest we ever take our duty for granted, we need to realize that lives are at stake and that they hinge on the quality of our job performance. The importance of predictive planning is an essential part of the shipyard’s success, so we can all say, in the words of Gary Yuen, “no regrets.”

Worldwide voyage, exploration, navigation is in the stars Bill Doughty

U.S. astronaut Air Force Lt. Col. Charles Lacy Veach looked out the window of the space shuttle as it passed over Hawaii nearly 25 years ago and had an epiphany about “island Earth.”

“Lacy could see all the islands, and he could see his whole spirit and soul here. He could see the entire planet as one vision,” said master navigator Dr. Nainoa Thompson, president of the Polynesian Voyaging Society.

Thompson credits Veach for inspiring Malama Honua (“Care for the Earth”), the worldwide journey of a double-hull voyaging canoe, Hokule’a, using traditional navigation techniques. The voyage is underway to raise awareness of our collective responsibility to protect and cherish our home planet.

“Hawaii is a laboratory for living well on islands, including Island Earth,” according to Thompson, in an interview with PBS. Kathy Muneno of Hawaii’s KHON reports, “Thompson says it’s when Veach saw Hawaii from space that he knew it held the answer to a beautiful, sustainable and caring Earth. He says Veach actually planted the seed for Hokule’a to sail around the world.”

Hokule’a (“star of gladness,” named for the star Arcturus, which passes over Hawaii) visited NASA’s Kennedy Space Center earlier this month, where Thompson and other voyagers paid tribute to Veach’s legacy.

“The country needs to know that Lacy was the one that planted the idea as a seed into us in 1992 to take Hokule’a around the world,” Thompson said, “Florida becomes foundational for us to articulate and communicate to this country that that’s why we’re coming — out of respect, and out of honoring and making sure that they know that Lacy’s legacy counts.”

Thompson’s tribute to Lacy and his vision of “the beauty of island Earth” is published by the Polynesian Voyaging Society at: http://ow.ly/4mPUGl. It’s a beautiful tribute and shows Veach’s commitment to teaching the next generation.

Like President Obama, Veach is a graduate of Punahou School in Honolulu. He was commissioned in the United States Air Force upon graduation from the Air Force Academy in 1966 and served as a USAF fighter pilot. According to his NASA bio, he flew “the F-100 Super Sabre, the F-111, and the F-105 Thunderchief, on assignments in the United States, Europe, and the Far East, including a 275-mission combat tour in the Republic of Vietnam.”

He was a member of the USAF Air Demonstration Squadron, the Thunderbirds, in 1976 and 1977. Veach left active duty in 1981, but served as a F-16 pilot with the Texas Air National Guard before becoming an astronaut in June 1985.

From his NASA bio: “He held a variety of technical assignments, and had flown as a mission specialist on two Space Shuttle missions, STS-39 in 1991 and STS-52 in 1992. He had logged 436.3 hours in space. Most recently, Lacy had worked as the lead astronaut for the development and operation of robotics for the International Space Station.”

Veach is mentioned in the same breath as Pinky Thompson (Nainoa’s father), Mao Piailug and Eddie (“Eddie Would Go”) Aikau, inspirational leaders who are part of a seafaring tradition.

U.S. Navy Sailors in Hawaii have a history of working with the Polynesian Voyaging Society — volunteering to assist with fixing and painting facilities, sanding and refurbishing canoes, and advising voyagers.

Just prior to Hokule’a’s voyage, Rear Adm. Frank Ponds (then-commander, Navy Region Hawaii and Naval Surface Group Middle Pacific) spoke with Kathy Muneno and spoke about mitigating the dangers they could face transiting the Pacific, including pirates, storms and rogue waves.

Recently the Navy announced a renewed interest in teaching traditional navigation techniques at the Naval Academy (USNA), using constellations, the sun and moon as Hokule’a does, without relying on global positioning satellites.

National Public Radio published a story about the Navy’s initiative, noting, “Navigation by the stars dates back millennia. The ancient Polynesians used stars and constellations to help guide their outrigger canoes across thousands of miles of the Pacific Ocean. And right up until the mid-20th century, navigation on the sea was usually done by looking at the heavens.”

As for Hokule’a, the voyaging canoe heads north up the East Coast now toward Washington D.C. and New York via the Carolinas and Virginia. Kamaaina will likely be on hand to meet and greet the voyagers. At the Mariner’s Museum in Newport News, the voyagers plan to participate in the Earth Day celebration there April 23.

To follow the Malama Honua Worldwide Voyage, visit http:// hokulea.com/track-the-voyage (A version of this essay appeared on Navy Reads, a blog dedicated to books, reading and critical thinking: http://navyreads. blogspot.com/)

April 22, 2016

Ho‘okele A-6 Volunteers remove invasive species and trash during the beach cleanup.

Pulling together to clean up beach Story and photos by MC2 Johans Chavarro Navy Public Affairs Support Element Detachment Hawaii

V

olunteers from Joint Base Pearl HarborHickam and other willing hands targeted rubbish, green waste and invasive plant species during a beach cleanup April 16 at Fort Kamehameha Beach and Ahua Reef Reserve.

The event was held in the spirit of April’s Earth Day (April 22). Some of the work completed included: picking up trash and green waste and pulling or cutting non-native plants, as well as picking up their seeds.

“We’re trying to focus on a variety of things,” said Rebecca Smith, natural resource manager at JBPHH. “One, we’re trying to keep the planet clean, so we’re doing a rubbish cleanup, but we’re also trying to educate and emphasize the removal of invasive plants, and species, off and around this area of Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam.”

“While praised on the mainland for their ability to stabilize shorelines, provide fish habitats and clean water run off, the red mangrove tree is highly invasive to the Hawaiian Islands,” Smith said.

“It takes over the shoreline and out-competes all the native Hawaiian plants along the shore,” Smith said. “There are often very specific insects, birds and other animals that are specifically associated with a very specific plant. So as the mangrove takes over and eliminates those native plants here in Hawaii. It actually dramatically impacts the type of wildlife that is here.”

With the sun rising higher overhead, volunteers worked to remove red mangrove seedlings and their propagules — a structure that propagates a plant. Groups of volunteers also worked throughout the morning to uproot patches of pickleweed, another invasive plant to Hawaii.

Additionally, in an effort to combat the invasive coconut rhinoceros beetle (CRB), Smith and the volunteers also gathered and removed green waste such as palm and other tree logs, palm fronds, and branches, common nesting grounds for the CRB. “It’s an invasive beetle that destroys and has the potential to destroy all of our coconut palms on the island,” Smith said. “And although [coconut palms are] not native to the islands, it is an iconic species for Hawaii.”

Seeing the progress made throughout the morning, many volunteers expressed a sense of pride and satisfaction within themselves.

“I just came from Japan, so having a beach so close to you and seeing it being maintained is actually amazing, and it’s so important too,” said Tech. Sgt. Jamie Carela, assigned to Pacific Air Forces. “I love the beach and my children love it, and I want to make it so my children and their children can come back and enjoy where we were stationed, because this is all just beautiful.”

“It makes me feel good being here,” said Culinary Specialist 2nd Class Renato Batallones Jr. assigned to JBPHH. “I didn’t expect this many people to come out, but seeing them all come out, clean up and work together has been really nice.”

Overlooking the Hawaiian mountainside view from the beach, Capt.

Stanley Keeve, commander of JBPHH, personally thanked everyone for volunteering their time to keep the base and Hawaii clean.

“That’s an incredible, beautiful view and it doesn’t stay that way unless folks like yourselves and others are involved in keeping it that way,” Keeve said. “So I want to say thanks, and I want to say thank you on behalf of the base. The base definitely appreciates all of your hard work.”

LEDs are illuminating piers at JBPHH Bryan Law

Regional Energy Program Manager Navy Region Hawaii Adequate lighting is critical to nighttime operation along the piers at JBPHH. Hundreds of light fixtures can consume large amount of energy, and contribute to light pollution with potential impacts to migratory birds.

As part of an energy savings performance contract being executed by the JBPHH Energy

Team, 559 existing pier lights were recently retrofitted with energy efficient LED (Light Emitting Diode) technology to reduce electricity consumption. LED lighting has proven to be an effective replacement for traditional outdoor lighting technologies such as high-pressure sodium and mercury vapor, providing about 50 percent energy saving and longer useful life.

In addition to reducing energy use by 655 MWH per year, saving the Navy

$150,000 in electricity costs, these new LED pier lights are also lessening the impact on our nighttime sky by incorporating dark-sky compliant design features to minimize light pollution.

The LED lights are designed to direct better q u a l i t y, a n d m o r e c o n sistent, light toward the intended area, thereby minimizing light scattering toward the sky.

Energy-saving projects such as the LED pier lights are part of Navy Region Hawaii’s strategy to reduce energy use by improving efficiency in our operation, while being good steward of our environment.

Navy Exchange celebrates Earth Day

Photo by Kenneth Chan

Patrons join in an Earth Day celebration April 13 at the Pearl Harbor Navy Exchange (NEX) Outdoor Living Center. NEX partnered with other agencies to provide tips and demonstrations on protecting the planet for future generations.

April 22, 2016

Ho‘okele A-7

Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard given laboratory status by ONR David Tomiyama

Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard & Intermediate Maintenance Facility Public Affairs After more than a year of research and administrative coordination, Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard & Intermediate Maintenance Facility (PHNSY&IMF) was officially given “laboratory status” by the Office of Naval Research (ONR), March 18. The shipyard is the pilot naval shipyard to be named a laboratory as part of a potential effort to seek laboratory status for all naval shipyards.

“This designation verifies what the command has been demonstrating for years: we have the inhouse expertise, culture,

and capacity to successfully leverage new technologies to provide better value to the taxpayer,” said Eric Petran, PHNSY&IMF Naval New Technology Program manager and New Office of Research & Technology Applications representative.

This shipyard initiative falls under the Chief of Naval Operations recent publication A Design for Maintaining Maritime Superiority which highlights four lines of effort, one of which is to expand and strengthen our network of partners which

includes: private research and development labs, and academia, increase the volume and range of interaction with commercial i n d u s t r y, a n d seek opportunities through non-traditional partners.

“Laboratory status is a natural step forward for the shipyard through our strategic focus on innovation,” said Capt. Jamie Kalowsky, PHNSY&IMF commander.

“Innovation requires teaming, resources, and opportunities; all of which will benefit from our partnering with academic in-

stitutions and commercial entities. As a learning organization, we are committed to move forward boldly in elevating technology for the mission readiness of our submarines and surface combatants.”

Designating a Navy command as a “laboratory” is not randomly given by ONR. Potential designees must meet a number of strict requirements such as security, legal, information technology, to name a few.

“SECNAVINST 5700.17 dated March 27 sets forth stringent requirements that a Department of Navy (DoN) command or technical activity must follow to apply for and be approved as a Navy laboratory,” said Dottie Vincent, Navy Tech-

nology Transfer (T2) Program manager.

“These include a request from the commanding officer for laboratory designation. The request must affirm that the lab personnel are familiar with federal T2 legislation, DoD and DoN policies and guidance; and that the activity has sufficient T2 security and legal staff to support the effort. All requests must be submitted and approved by ONR.” Laboratory status opens the door for the shipyard to develop new technologies and processes with partners outside the Navy.

In the past, the shipyard was limited to partnering only with Navy-affiliated academic institutions and other Navy commands for research and development

opportunities. While new technologies and processes came out of the collaborations, the list for who the Shipyard can now partner with is wide open.

“We’re now authorized to enter into technical partnerships such as education partnership agreements and cooperative research and development agreements, which opens the door to many new projects,” said Petran.

“The goal is to pursue innovative advances to improve our productive capacity while looking at the role of a shipyard in both the current Navy as well as the Navy of the future.”

The shipyard laboratory will seek local academic partnerships and serve as the shipyard laboratory model for NAVSEA.

‘Airmen’s ministry center’ The Gathering Place gets fresh look Capt. Nicole White

15th Wing Public Affairs The Gathering Place recently celebrated a grand reopening following a three-day renovation.

The Gathering Place, which is located in King Hall Dormitory, provides a comfortable alcohol-free and smoke-free, home-like environment in which young Airmen can socialize with peers.

The Gathering Place was created in 2001, when then Hickam Chaplain James Richey came up with the idea that young, single Airmen needed

U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Terri Paden

The Gathering Place recently celebrated a grand re-opening at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, April 6. a place to hang out and get to know one another.

Armed with his dream and

help from volunteers and the Friends of Hickam, The Gathering place became a reality.

Today, the Gathering Place continues to be one of the many key programs run by the chapel.

The most recent renovations were done to update and refresh the facility.

“The Gathering Place is an Airmen’s ministry center that is here to foster a sense of community, spiritual growth, develop leaders and cultivate service to others geared toward new Airmen as they transition into the Air Force,” said Chaplain David Haltom, The Gathering Place chaplain.

According to Haltom, the Gathering Place has received more than $32K in updates.

The location is furnished with Wi-Fi, a gaming room with a large LCD television, video game consoles, games, a movie lounge area with a large LCD television, surround sound, cable and a large selection of movies. A large outdoor entertainment lanai is also available.

In addition to entertainment, the new Gathering Place offers a fully operable kitchen and coffee bar. Though the chapel oversees operations of the Gathering Place, the program utilizes volunteers from various

organizations to support the mission.

One way organizations help provide support is through the weekly meal served on Tuesday evening.

“The units that provide meals each week are building morale and it really helps strengthen [Airmen’s] spirit and continue the building of an authentic community,” said Haltom.

For more information or volunteer opportunities, visit or call The Gathering Place at www.facebook.com/pages/ The-Gathering-Place-JBPHH/1399031930394806 or call 910-574-3346.

Single Airmen Resiliency Retreat brings rest, relaxation Capt. Nicole White

15th Wing Public Affairs The 692nd Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Group, along with the 15th Wing Sexual Assault and Prevention Response (SAPR) office and the Joint Base chapel sponsored the 3rd annual Single Airmen Resiliency Retreat at Kualoa Ranch’s Secret Island, April 8.

The free retreat was open to active-duty Airmen, and was attended by more than 145 singles looking to relax and socialize in a no-stress, nothreat setting.

“The retreat was refreshing and provided a nice way for Airmen to reenergize from the dayto-day business,” said

Chaplain Deborah Hughley, 692nd ISRG chaplain.

“This was an opportunity for everyone to relax and network with peers.”

Throughout the day, the 15th Wing SAPR office, mental health and the Joint Base chapel delivered presentations. It covered a wide range of

resiliency lessons to ensure participants walked away with more healthy life skills added to their toolbox.

“This was a unique experience to come together from different parts of the Air Force and create a bond,” said Senior Airman Antonio Brooks, 37th

Intelligence Squadron.

“This event gave me the ability to reach out to my peers and make a difference in a positive way.”

Although the event is traditionally geared toward Airmen, Soldiers and Sailors were on hand to participate as well.

“The event and loca-

tion were beautiful,” said Petty Officer 2nd Class Lindsey Pritchett, Navy Information Operations Command Hawaii. “I had participated in a similar program with the Navy before but not with a different service so I took a chance.”

However for some, this

was a first-time experience.

“I signed up because this seemed like something fun to do,” said Seaman Kyle Tadda, N4 Department. “It was, in fact, fun and informative.

To anyone on the fence about attending next year, just go for it!”

PACAF Airmen stand up air contingent in Philippines

April 22, 2016

Ho‘okele A-8

Story and photo by HQ Pacific Air Forces Public Affairs

Pacific Air Forces Airmen stood up the first rotation of an air contingent at Clark Air Base, Philippines, April 16, following a joint announcement by Secretary of Defense Ash Carter and Philippine Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin in Manila that highlighted several initiatives aimed to enhance bilateral relations between the two nations.

The air contingent comprises five A-l0C Thunderbolt IIs from Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea; three HH-60G Pave Hawks from Kadena Air Base, Japan, and approximately 200 personnel deployed from multiple Pacific Air Forces units. The air contingent is designed to promote interoperability and provide greater and more transparent air and maritime domain awareness to ensure safety for military and civilian activities in international waters and airspace. The flights further enhance ongoing maritime situational awareness missions

by U.S. Navy P-8 Poseidon aircraft at Clark AB. The air contingent’s missions will include air and maritime domain awareness, personnel recovery, com-

Three of five U.S. Air Force A-10C Thunderbolt IIs, with the 51st Fighter Wing, Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, sit on the flight line of Clark Air Base, Philippines, April 16. bating piracy, and assuring access to the global commons.

“It’s a tremendous privilege having PACAF aircraft and Airmen constitute the air contingent’s first rotation that will lay the foundation for joint air patrols and promote stronger ties with our Philippine partners,” said Gen. Lori Robinson, Pacific Air Forces commander.

The aircraft and approximately 175 Airmen, including aircrew, maintainers, logistics and support personnel, remained in place to stand up the air contingent following their participation in Exercise Balikatan, April 4-16. During the exercise, PACAF Airmen joined more than 7,000 personnel in the two countries’ premier bilateral event to conduct a variety of missions that enrich the bilateral partnership and commitment to the mu-

tual defense treaty.

The remaining 30 air contingent Airmen will deploy from PACAF headquarters at Joint Base Pearl-Harbor-Hickam, as well as several other PACAF bases.

“By leveraging forces already operating at Clark AB, the standup of the air contingent required a minimal additional investment and will help to strengthen ties with our Philippine allies,” said Brig. Gen. Dirk Smith, Pacific Air Forces director of air and cyberspace operations. “Standing up this air contingent is just one way we are exercising our continued presence and demonstrating our commitment to partners and allies in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.”

The A-10C Thunderbolt II is a multirole aircraft with the excellent loiter capabilities and maneuverability at low air speeds and altitude necessary for

conducting the air contingent’s air and maritime domain awareness and personnel recovery missions. The HH-60G Pave Hawk is the Air Force’s premier personnel recovery platform, capable of conducting a diverse array of missions including civil search and rescue, medical evaluation, and humanitarian assistance and disaster recovery operations.

“Selecting the A-10C and HH-60Gs for this mission was strategically and economically the right decision as it allows us to use forces already deployed to the Philippines for Exercise Balikatan,” Smith said. “Balikatan and the air contingent allow us to strengthen working relationships and become more interoperable with our Philippine partners and enable our aircrew and support personnel to become familiar with operating in this region.”

Following the completion of the first air contingent rotation, PACAF Airmen and aircraft are projected to redeploy to their assigned units in the U.S. Pacific Command area of operations, and will be replaced at a future date by aircraft and personnel from either PACAF or other military services.

Follow-on rotations of additional aircraft and personnel will be determined in consultation with the Philippine government.

Along with standing up an air contingent, Carter announced several new bilateral alliance initiatives including ongoing joint patrols with U.S. and Philippine maritime forces in the South China Sea and a routine patrol by the USS John C. Stennis in the region following its participation in Exercise Balikatan. Additionally, Carter noted the U.S. will stand up a rotational,

combined command and control element at Camp Aguinaldo after the conclusion of Exercise Balikatan.

Approximately 80 personnel will comprise the initial rotation of this forward coordination element, with Marines from the III Marine Expeditionary Brigade (III MEB) forming the nucleus and representation from the U.S. Navy, U.S. Army, and U.S. Air Force.

The element will support increased operations, activities, and actions in the region and will enhance combined C2 capabilities between both nations.

“There is going to be regular, periodic presence here of American forces,” said Carter during the April 14 joint press conference in Manila. “It may change in its nature, timing and duration depending on what we and the Filipinos decide is optimal.”

gin spring 2016, is for: Active duty family members (ADFMs) enrolled in TRICARE Prime or TRICARE Prime Remote Retirees and their family members who are enrolled in Prime within the 50 United States or the District of Columbia ADSMs enrolled in TRICARE Prime Remote and stationed overseas but traveling stateside Active duty service

members (ADSMs) enrolled in TRICARE Prime are not eligible for this program as their care is managed by their service. This pilot also excludes Uniformed Services Family Health Plan (USFHP) enrollees. TRICARE Overseas Program (TOP) enrollees can receive an unlimited number of urgent care visits, but only when they are traveling stateside and

seeking care.

There are no point of service (POS) deductibles or cost shares for these two urgent care visits, but network copayments still apply.

Once you receive urgent care, you must notify your PCM about that care within 24 hours or the first business day after the urgent care visit. Authorization requirements have not changed for follow up

care, specialty care or inpatient care.

When you are not sure of the type of care you need, or you require care outside of standard business hours, call the Nurse Advice Line (NAL) at 1-800-TRICARE (8742273), Option 1. If the NAL recommends an urgent care visit, and a referral is submitted, that visit will not count against the two pre-authorized visits

allowed under the urgent care pilot. However, if you call the NAL and get a referral to a military hospital or clinic and you go elsewhere for care, that visit will count against your two preauthorized visits.

For more information, please visit the urgent care pilot program web page on the TRICARE website at http://www.tricare.mil/urgentcarepilot.

New urgent care pilot program for Prime beneficiaries TRICARE

To increase access to care, the Department of Defense is launching an urgent care pilot program for TRICARE Prime beneficiaries. This program allows Prime enrollees two visits to a network or TRICARE authorized provider without a referral or prior authorization.

The urgent care pilot program, scheduled to be-

April 22, 2016

Ho‘okele A-9

TAMC Blood Donor Center thanks donors, volunteers, supporters Neal Torres (8 donations)

Michelle Lele

ASBP Blood Donor Recruiter, Tripler, Hawaii More than 100 individuals in attendance for the Tripler Army Medical Center Blood Donor Center’s annual Blood Donor Recognition Awards Luncheon packed into a room at the Navy Marine Golf Course in Honolulu, recently.

The event honored dozens of top blood, platelet and plasma donors, as well as blood drive coordinators, organizations and military commands from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard who have gone above and beyond the call of duty to support the Armed Services Blood Program’s mission to save lives.

The lunch started with the national anthem played by the Army Paradise Brass Quintet. The invocation from TAMC Chaplain Army Capt.

Mark Nikont was followed by a brief overview of the program from Army Lt. Col. Teresa Terry, chief of Transfusion Services at the donor center.

Terry wanted the audience to have an understanding of the depth of the program and how many lives it affects.

“As a tri-service organization, the ASBP collects, processes, stores and distributes blood and blood products worldwide,” Terry said.

According to Terry, the Tripler Army Medical Center is the largest collector of U.S. military blood in the Pacific.

“The blood has been used for military training events and actual missions for units such as Army forward surgical teams, Special Forces, Navy ships, Navy submarines, Air Force helicopters with evacuation teams, Coast Guard rescues and even cruise ships,” Terry said.

“Our blood products are also used in locations such as Guam, Korea and Japan.”

Navy Capt. Peter Roberts, TAMC deputy commanding officer, praised all of the ASBP volunteers.

“Since the military blood program inception, our donors have been the heart and soul of our program,” he said. “It is only through volunteer’s donations that we are able to provide lifesaving blood products. On behalf of the commander of Tripler Army Medical Center and the Armed Services Blood Program, we would like to say thank you.”

Sgt. 1st Class Jackie Mims was the guest speaker at the luncheon.

He has been in the Army for 17 years and served

Top plasma donors Frank Lang (12 donations) Jorge Penabarbosa (11 donations) Robert Toupe (10 donations) Gabino Saldana (10 donations) Michael Budomo (6 donations) Navy Capt. Peter F. Roberts, deputy commanding officer of Brian Greschak the Tripler Army Medical Center, and Army Lt. Col. Teresa (6 donations) Terry, chief of Transfusion Medicine Service, present an Top blood drive award to retired Navy Cmdr. Robert Fowler. coordinators Deborah Shaffer his country with multi- Robert Fowler GSM1 Kyle Rowe ple deployments to Iraq (10 donations) HMC Ryan De La Cruz and Afghanistan. At the Tobias Bernard Community support ceremony, he recalled one (9 donations) University of Hawaii of his deployments to Af- Joyce Parkhurst ROTC Army ghanistan working for a (9 donations) blood support detachment.

A Soldier from an Army Special Forces unit on a humanitarian mission was shot seven times in the chest and required more than 247 blood products during surgery.

“Because of people like you who support our military blood program, that Soldier made it home to his family and is well and healthy today,” Mims said.

The many awardees and other guests got to enjoy a country style barbecue for lunch as the awards were given out. The lunch ended with a special thank you from Terry.

“While we can never recognize all of the people that have made important contributions to the TAMC Donor Center over the last year, we can’t thank you enough for the unselfish generosity in giving someone the ultimate gift … a possible second chance at life,” Terry said.

Recognitions: Top whole blood donors Frank Abbott (6 donations) Jose Arreola (6 donations) Harry Beasor Jr. (6 donations) Ruth Burkholder (6 donations) Diane Chong (6 donations) Ted Hashimoto (6 donations) Benny Perales Jr. (6 donations) Top platelet donors Jeffery Boyd (13 donations) Angela Hansen (13 donations) Jimmy Hazelwood (12 donations) Clyde Wong (12 donations) Linda Hartley (12 donations) Christopher Dunlap (12 donations) Luther Townsend Jr. (10 donations) Judith Cronin (10 donations)

Top units National Security Agency Pearl Harbor Navy Shipyard & IMF 1-21st IN Battalion Schofield Barracks 3d Radio Battalion Marines USS Chosin (CG 65) TAMC Blood Battle winner Alpha company

About the Armed Services Blood Program Since 1962, the Armed Services Blood Program has served as the sole provider of blood for the United States military. As a tri-service organization, the ASBP collects, processes, stores and distributes blood and blood products worldwide.

As one of four national blood collection organizations trusted to ensure the nation has a safe, potent blood supply, the ASBP works closely with our civilian counterparts by sharing donors on military installations where there are no military blood collection centers and by sharing blood products in times of need to maximize availability.

To find out more about the ASBP or to schedule an appointment to donate, please visit www.militaryblood.dod.mil. To interact directly with ASBP staff members, see more photos or get the latest news, follow @militaryblood on Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, YouTube and Pinterest.

April 22, 2016

Thank you,

PMRF from…

turtles… birds… seals… students

Ho‘okele B-1

(recipient of the 2015 Secretary of the Navy Environmental Award for small installations)

April 22, 2016

Ho‘okele B-2

Joint Base ASYMCA offers many programs for military kids Brandon Bosworth

Assistant Editor, Ho`okele The Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam branch of the Armed Services YMCA will be offering several programs for the children of active duty service members in the

weeks ahead.

•Aliamanu Military Reservation Fields will celebrate Healthy Kids Day from 9 to 11 a.m. April 30 with an event featuring different booths focusing on healthy living, including oral hygiene, literacy and healthy food groups.

There will also be fitness

activities. For more information, call 473-3398.

• From June 13 to 17 and June 27 to July 1, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam will be hosting Robotics Camp. This summer workshop is designed to introduce students to the world of robotics. Using their cre-

ative skills, students will build, program, play, test and compete with their personally designed robots. The award-winning Kalani High School Robotics Academy and ASYMCA staff will lead the camp instruction.

The camp runs from 9 a.m. to noon, and is open

to children of active duty military service members ages 9-13 years old. There is a $75 registration fee per child. To register, visit http://ow.ly/4mPTFN. • Camp Hero will be held at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., June 20-24.

This event helps military

children build self-confidence, self-esteem and independence. It is open to children of active duty military service members ages 7-12 years old and will feature outdoor activities, crafts and field trips. To register, visit http:// www. asymca.org/honolulu- hi/ programs/camp-hero.

Rubber ducky swim

Nothing foolish about ful medames In the United States, legumes are often regulated to lunch or dinner while various cereals, breads, meats and eggs dominate the breakfast table. However, in other parts of the world they have staked their claim as early morning staples.

Consider, for example, the fava bean (no Hannibal Lecter jokes please). A part of the human diet since at least 6,000 B.C., fava beans are commonly served throughout the Middle East at breakfast. They are especially popular in Egypt, where they are the stars of what is often called the Egyptian national dish: ful medames (“buried beans”).

Ful medames is also widely consumed in Lebanon, Syria, Palestine, Jordan, Israel, Sudan, Yemen and Saudi Arabia. Like any dish eaten by so many people in so many places, there are countless variations on the basic recipe. Mine is pretty simple, and more or less representative of the average ful medames recipe you are likely to come across.

aa Gent Gent inin the the Kitchen Kitchen MWR Marketing photo

brandon bosworth by:by:brandon bosworth

medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until soft. Toss in the garlic and stir for a couple of minutes.

Add the fava beans and cumin, stirring until everything is nicely mixed. Remove from heat.

Empty the contents of the skillet into a sturdy mixing bowl.

Use a fork or potato masher to mash everything to together. Add the lemon juice, tahini and salt and stir well.

Ful medames is sometimes served with fresh tomato or eggs.

I like to have it with a big dollop of hummus on top. It is pretty much always served with a flatbread such as pita.

Hot, strong tea makes the perfect accompanying beverage.

Ful Medames If you’re feeling es(Serves 2-3) 2 tablespoons olive oil pecially operatically-inclined while enjoying 1/2 onion, diced your ful medames, cue 2 cloves garlic, up Giuseppe Verdi’s minced classic “Aida,” which is 1 15-oz. can fava set in Egypt and first beans, rinsed premiered in Cairo in 1 teaspoon cumin 1871. It remains one of 2 tablespoons lemon the most performed opjuice eras in the world, just 2 tablespoons tahini as ful medames is one Salt to taste of the most popular Preheat the oil in a dishes in the Middle medium size skillet on East.

Ho’okele assistant editor Brandon Bosworth blogs about food, fitness, philosophy, martial arts, and other topics at www.agentintraining.com.

A Rubber Ducky Swim took place April 17 at Pool 2 on the Hickam side of Joint Base. Thousands of rubber ducks were thrown into the shallow end of the pool and into the baby pool. Children competed in finding the special rubber ducky with a colored bottom to receive a prize.

Luggage, backpack drive to benefit foster children Joint Base Military and Family Support Center A luggage and backpack drive for foster children is being held this month in conjunction with Child Abuse Prevention Month with drop-off locations around Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam.

You can help a foster child carry their personal belongings by donating a new or slightly used piece of luggage, duffel bag or backpack.

Drop-off locations include: • Military and Family Support

Center Pearl Harbor, 4827 Bougainville Drive, Honolulu • Wahiawa Annex Child Development Center (CDC), building 477.

• Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Teen Center, 100 McChord St. building 1859 on the Hickam side of Joint Base (attached to the Makai Recreation Center).

• Center Drive CDC, building 930.

• Hickam West CDC, 170 Kuntz Ave., building 1654.

• Ford Island CDC, O’Kane

Hickam Commissary to undergo reset Hickam Commissary will be going through a total store reset from May 18 to 20.

The purpose of the reset is to adjust and enhance the commodity and product flow within the commissary so that it can meet the demand of customer shopping trends and buying habits. Store resets are common practice throughout the grocery industry and are done at least once every eight to 10 years. The last total store reset for Hickam was done in 2006.

The commissary will close at 4 p.m. May 18. On May 19 and 20, the commissary will be closed for the reset. The commissary will re-open for business at 8 a.m. May 21 with normal operating hours.

During the Hickam Commissary closure and reduced hours of operation, the Pearl Harbor Commissary will be open.

For more information, call Totolua Ripley, store director of Hickam Commissary, at 4491363, ext 301.

Blvd., building 570.

• Catlin Youth Center, 4655 Catlin Drive.

• Peltier CDC, 530 Peltier Ave., building 1923.

The Joint Base Military and Family Support Center also urges people to support national Child Abuse Prevention Month by wearing the color blue every Friday in April.

(For more information, call 4741999 or email mfschawaii@navy. mil or visit www.facebook.com/JBPHH.MFSC.)

Upcoming blood drives Tripler Army Medical Center Blood Donor Center has updated its schedule of upcoming blood drives as part of the Armed Services Blood Donor Program (ASBP). Dates and locations are updated regularly online as new drives are scheduled. Donors are encouraged to schedule an appointment online, call to make an appointment, and check www. militaryblood.dod.mil for the latest information.

Currently scheduled drives include: • April 25, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Naval Submarine Support Command, 822 Clark St., suite 400, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam • May 2, 3, and 4, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., 2nd Stryker Brigade, building 2097, Schofield Barracks • May 9, 8 a.m. to noon, Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 24, building 375, Marine Corps Base Hawaii (For more information, contact Michelle LeleHimalaya, Armed Services Blood Program, Tripler Army Medical Center, at 433-6699 or email Michelle.Lele.civ@mail.mil.)

April 22, 2016

Ho‘okele B-3

SPORTS

PACOM/JIOC takes care of 747 CS in five Story and photo

by Randy Dela Cruz

“If it wasn’t right down the middle, I was going to let it go. It happened to be a great pitch and I got into it.”

Sports Editor, Ho‘okele It took the bats of Pacific Command/Joint Intelligence Operation Center (PACOM/ JIOC) a short while to get warmed up against the 747th Communication Squadron (747 CS), but once they did, the team left little doubt as to who would come out on top.

Clinging to a 5-2 lead in the top of the fifth inning, PACOM/JIOC, spurred by a bases-jacked, four-run salami off the bat of Army Sgt. Schaune Collins rolled on to a 13-2 win over the 747 CS on April 19 in a White Division intramural softball game at Ward Field, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam.

PACOM/JIOC, which got a superlative pitching performance from Mike Todd, a Department of Defense civilian, broke out to a 3-0 lead in the top of the first and held the 747 CS in check until breaking the game wide open in the top of the fifth.

“We’ve been playing together for three years,” Todd said. “Everybody out there on our team has a clue, so we have no holes and we just play together.”

PACOM/JIOC got on the board first with an RBI single, with the bases loaded, off the bat of Marine Master Sgt. Matt Carnejo.

Teammate Information System Technician 2nd Class Chad Cozart followed up with another base hit to drive in two more runs.

While the PACOM/JIOC bats seemed to have worked out their kinks early in the game, the offense went silent over the next two innings before picking up a run in the top of the fourth on a leadoff, inside-the-

— Army Sgt. Schaune Collins

Army Sgt. Schaune Collins waves to the crowds at Ward Field after connecting on a grand slam. park homer by Tech. Sgt. Brian Graff, whose line shot got past the centerfielder and allowed him the opportunity to go 360.

The drive seemed to be just what the offense needed as PACOM/JIOC picked up right where they left off by hammering out a huge inning in the top of the fifth.

With no outs, bases loaded and one run already in, Collins stepped up to the plate and immediately pulled the trigger – sending a pitch deep over the centerfielder’s head.

With the ball rolling around in spacious Ward Field, Collins easily touched them all and boosted the team’s lead up by

four to make 9-2.

“If it wasn’t right down the middle, I was going to let it go,” Collins said about his shot. “It happened to be a great pitch and I got into it. The wind was blowing in and I didn’t know if I got enough of it to get it over his head, but I saw him turn around and chase after it, so I

was like, yeah I got it.”

Then, with home plate barely cooled off from having four players cross over it, Graff went opposite field and deposited a pitch just beyond the right fielder.

As the ball skipped away towards the corner, Graff jogged his way around the bases for his second inside-the-park dinger and a 10-2 lead.

“The second one was a no doubter,” Graff said. “I went into trot mode as soon as I saw it go off my bat. I just wanted to get a base hit. I got lucky and it carried.”

Todd, who was credited with three strikeouts while tossing a gem off the mound, said that a lot of his success comes off experience and a little-known technique he calls, “old-man pitching.”

“It’s all about hitting that outside corner,” Todd said. “I hadn’t pitched before, so about three years ago, I said, ‘I’m getting too old, I’ve got to find a spot, I can’t play outfield anymore.’ Every year, I’ve gotten progressively better and now I’ve got the old-man thing going.”

Todd said that while in the past few years, softball on Joint Base has been routinely a coronation for the 647th Security Forces Squadron or Hawaii Air National Guard, he believes that things are about to change.

As long as his team can stay healthy and keep their players on the field, he admits that this year could be a changing of the guard with PACOM/JIOC coming out on top.

“Pound Town isn’t what they used to be because they lost a lot of guys to PCS,” Todd said.

“We still got the same guys, so we’re basically waiting our turn.”

Shipyard takes advantage of miscues to beat HQ PACAF Story and photos

by Randy Dela Cruz Sports Editor, Ho‘okele Shipyard scored three out of five runs off fielding errors

by Headquarters Pacific Air Forces (HQ PACAF) in the first two innings of play and then went on to take a 14-5 win on April 19 in a Red Division intramural softball game at Ward Field, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam.

In the first inning, Shipyard put two men on with singles and one out, before Lt. Cmdr. Nick Levine reached base on an infield error to bat in the first run of the game.

Senior Chief Machinist’s Mate Steve Johnson and Electrician’s Mate (Nuclear Trained) 1st Class Scott Parmalee stepped up to spank in two more runs on singles, before the team added a fourth tally on another infield error.

HQ PACAF got back one of the runs on an RBI single by Chief Master Sgt. Jim Dwyer, but at third an error cost HQ PACAF another run on the field, as Shipyard went out in front at 5-1 going into the bottom of the second.

“You have to do that,” Levine said about taking advantage of the three gift runs handed over by HQ PACAF. “You have to know that your mistakes are coming, so you have to be able to capitalize on their mistakes.”

In the bottom of the second inning, HQ PACAF tried to keep pace with Shipyard and opened the frame with backto-back singles, before Capt.

Jeremy Williams sliced a ball through the infield to drive in the teams’ second run of the game.

However, Levine picked up his second RBI of the game in the top of the third, before the team really broke things open in the fourth.

Again, two fielding miscues opened the door for Shipyard to rally, when the team put men in scoring position at second and third with only one out on two errors.

Machinist’s Mate 1st Class Brian Love picked up one run on a base hit and Levine got RBI number three before two

more touched home on a hit

by Parmalee to make it 10-3.

When it was finally over, Shipyard did what they needed to do to break the game wide-open by picking up seven runs in the top of the fourth to grab hold of an insurmountable 13-3 advantage.

Although the season is only two weeks old, Shipyard, by virtue of a veteran club, looked like they are already in peak-season form.

Senior Chief Machinist’s Mate Charles Phelps, Shipyard’s No. 1 pitcher and one of the top veteran players on Joint Base, will be gone from the team for a few weeks, but even without his services, Shipyard looks more than ready to pick up or even surpass their 2015 third-place finish in the White Division.

“We’ve played together for eight seasons, but we always have new guys come in,” Levine said. “We’re lucky because we have a solid base and kind of bring new guys in. That keeps us going year after year.”

One area new players have made a difference so far, Levine said, has been in the infield, where the team looked immaculate against HQ PACAF last night.

Officially, the middle defense turned two double plays and would have had a third if it were not for a dead ball and a batted shot back to the pitcher.

“The infield kept us in the game tonight,” Levine admitted. “Two new guys are in at short and second, so hopefully that chemistry continues.”

While Levine said that the team is always eager to get on the diamond and play the game, he understands that the camaraderie and friendship of the players is what really makes each season exciting.

The park is the one place where old friends can visit with one another and just have a good time doing something they love.

“In the shipyard, we’re all scattered,” Levine pointed out. “So this is one of the places where we can come together and see each other in one spot. So it’s good fun.”

Above, Shipyard infielder Electrician’s Mate (Nuclear Trained) 1st Class Scott Parmalee makes the pivot to complete the double play from second base.

At left, Shipyard Lt. Cmdr.

Nick Levine beats the throw to third base ahead of HQ PACAF Capt. Jeremy Williams.

April 22, 2016

Ho‘okele B-4

My Favorite Photo

U.S. Navy photos by Bettie Feibel

Pacific golden plovers, locally known as kolea, fly thousands of miles during mid-April from Hawaii to their nesting sites in Alaska. Often solitary while enjoying the warmer winters of Hawaii, they are known to gather together in large groups in order to travel north. Early this week, more than 100 plovers gathered near Ford Island’s flight line, forming together in preparations for their annual migratory journey. These long-distance navigators take no breaks en route, and are expected to return in mid-August.

How to submit: send your non-posed photos to editor@hookelenews.com.

Visit www.greatlifehawaii.com or subscribe to MWR’s digital magazine Great Life Hawaii.

Leisure and Travel Showcase held at NEX Justin Hirai

Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Morale, Welfare and Recreation

MWR Marketing photo

The Wahiawa Annex Block Party will return April 29.

Block party will return to Wahiawa Annex Helen Ko

Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Morale, Welfare and Recreation The Wahiawa Annex Block Party will be held for the second time this year at the sports field from 2 to 4 p.m. April 29.

The block party will feature several Morale, Recreation and Welfare information booths representing activities such as bowling, aquatics, fitness and arts and crafts.

Some of the informational booths will be giving away prizes.

In addition to the information booths, there will be bounce houses, bean bag toss, tug-ofwar, jousting and sumo wrestling, plus pie eating and donut eating competitions. In addition to the free activities and games, there will be free hot dogs, burgers and a shave ice booth.

(For more information, visit greatlifehawaii. com.)

Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Morale, Welfare and Recreation held its annual Leisure and Travel Showcase at the Pearl Harbor Navy Exchange courtyard on April 16. The event featured over two-dozen vendors.

No transactions were allowed at the event so patrons were able to meet and talk to vendors without any sales pressure.

Hawaiian Slice, Local Folk and TRK provided live music during the event. There was also a MWR Marketing photos special performance by Above, patrons spin the wheel to win prizes. Below, patrons interact with vendors during a few of the performers from The Big Kahuna the Leisure and Travel Showcase at the Pearl Harbor Navy Exchange, April 16.

Luau Show.

Throughout the event, prize drawings were given to lucky guests who attended the showcase.

Prizes were provided by the vendors and included a trip to Las Vegas, luau dinners, snorkeling trips, airline miles, hotel and car rental packages and more. Winners did not have to be present to win.

April 22, 2016

Ho‘okele B-5

aPril

Community Calendar TEMPORARY LANE CLOSURE — NOW

JROTC programs are encouraging all JROTC and ROTC alumni to join them for the event, The Honolulu Rail Transit project will continue either as a participant or a volunteer. FMI: Visit with utility work in the Nimitz Highway and airport active.com and search for JROTC 100th or visit area. Saturday lane closures will continue for the next two to three months. Lane closures are taking JROTCAnniversary.com. place in the vicinity of North Nimitz Highway and DBIDS IMPLEMENTATION — 25 Valkenburgh Street. Drivers should proceed with Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam will begin caution when traveling through the area. transitioning to its electronic access systems to the Defense Biometric Identification System PASSOVER SEDER EVENTS — TODAY A Christian Protestant Passover Seder meal will (DBIDS). The transition period begins with ID be held at 5 p.m. at the Hickam Chapel Center. card registration at installation gates from April 25 to May 20 done on a staggered basis, with In addition, a Jewish Passover Seder will be held at 6 p.m. at the Hale Koa Hotel. FMI: Pearl full implementation beginning May 21 at Joint Base and its annexes at Wahiawa, West Loch Harbor Memorial at 473-3971 and the Hickam and Lualualei. The change should be transparent Chapel Center at 449-1754. to personnel seeking to enter JBPHH but during NMCRS SAVINGS TICKET — SATURDAY the transition, personnel might experience slight delays when gate personnel scan an ID card for Since 1904, the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS) has been helping active duty the first time. FMI: JBPHH Pass and ID office at and retired service members and their families 449-0872 or 449-0865. when the unexpected happens. A $5 donation for a Pearl Harbor Navy Exchange shopping ticket from now through Saturday will give back to the NMCRS. Authorized patrons only are eligible. FMI: 423-3287.

EARTH DAY AT HICKAM HARBOR

SATURDAY — An Earth Day celebration will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Hickam Harbor. The event will include activities for the whole family. FMI: 449-5215 or www. greatlifehawaii.com.

JROTC ANNIVERSARY FUN RUN

SATURDAY — Oahu all-service Junior JROTC (Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps) programs will celebrate the 100th JROTC anniversary by hosting a 5K run at Ford Island. The run will begin at 6 a.m. at the end of the runway at Ford Island. Registration is open now and the public can participate to support the JROTC cadets. Oahu-based

NEIGHBORHOOD SECURITY WATCH — 25

Pearl Harbor. FMI: www.greatlifehawaii.com or call 474-1999.

EXPLORING CAREERS — 26

A class on personality assessment and career matching will be held from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. at Military and Family Support Center Pearl Harbor. FMI: www.greatlifehawaii.com or call 474-1999.

STARTING YOUR OWN BUSINESS — 27

A class on starting your own business will be held from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at Military and Family Support Center Hickam. The Small Business Administration and Business Action Center is sponsoring the class. FMI: www. greatlifehawaii.com or call 474-1999.

NATIONAL PREPAREDNESS DAY — 29

Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Emergency Management Office will host a National Preparedness Day event. Information booths will be staffed from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Pearl Harbor Navy Exchange and Hickam BX to provide the military community with free resources and handouts to prepare themselves and families on tsunamis, hurricanes, and other natural disasters. The event is held in support of FEMA America’s PrepareAthon National Day of Action, held April 30.

A neighborhood security watch training meeting for Ohana Military Communities residents from the Pearl City Peninsula, McGrew and Halawa housing areas will begin at 6 p.m. April 25 at the McGrew Point Community Center, 471 McGrew Loop in Aiea. Honolulu Police Department representatives will attend the meeting.

Residents can RSVP through today by emailing WestRSO@huntcompanies.com or CentralRSO@ HICKAM EXCHANGE HOURS CHANGE — 30 huntcompanies.com or calling the West number at The Hickam Exchange main store hours will 839-8640 or the Central number at 839-8670. change effective April 30. The new hours will be Sunday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 7 NATIONAL VOLUNTEER WEEK LUNCHEON p.m. On Friday and Saturday, the store will be 26 — A National Volunteer Week luncheon open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. FMI: 423-7694 or will be held from 2 to 3:30 at the Tradewinds email newmanbe@aafes.com.

Enlisted Club, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam.

The event will honor Joint Base volunteers who FISHPOND CLEANUP — 30 enhance the quality of life in the community.

A Loko Pa‘aiau Fishpond cleanup will be held at FMI: 474-1999 or www.greatlifehawaii.com.

McGrew Point housing area. The event will be conducted with support by the Aiea Hawaiian ANGER MANAGEMENT CLASS — 26 Civic Club and Damien High School.

A class on managing anger will be held from 8 to 11 a.m. at Military and Family Support Center

MOVIE

ShowtimeS

Sharkey Theater

Friday 4/22

7:00 PM Batman V Superman: Dawn of Justice (3-D) (PG-13)

Saturday 4/23

1:30 PM Meet Kernel Popcorn 2:50 PM Zootopia (3-D) (PG) 5:00 PM My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2 (PG-13) 7:00 PM Batman V Superman: Dawn of Justice (PG-13)

Sunday 4/24

2:00 PM The Kernel Popcorn Magic Show (free) 4:40 PM Miracles From Heaven (PG) 7:00 PM My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2 (PG-13)

THursday 4/28

7:00 PM The Divergent Series: Allegiant (PG-13)

Hickam Memorial Theater

Friday 4/22

6:00 PM 10 Cloverfield Lane (PG-13)

Saturday 4/23

Batman V Superman: Dawn of Justice

Fearing the actions of a god-like superhero left unchecked, Gotham City’s own formidable, forceful vigilante takes on Metropolis’s most revered, modern-day savior, while the world wrestles with what sort of hero it really needs. And with Batman and Superman at war with one another, a new threat quickly arises, putting mankind in greater danger than it’s ever known.

3:00 PM Zootopia (PG) 6:00 PM The Brothers Grimsby (R)

Sunday 4/24

3:00 PM Zootopia 3D (PG) 6:00 PM 10 Cloverfield Lane (PG-13)

THursday 4/28

7:00 PM The Brothers Grimsby (R)