JUNE 2021
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CRITICAL DAYS OF SUMMER
PHOTO OF THE MONTH
A Sailor assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion-303 (NMCB-303) cuts into a beam salvaged from the USS Arizona. The relic pieces will be sent out to surface ships to be put on display during the 80th commemoration of Pearl Harbor.
Cutting a
(Photo by AD1 Mike Henderson)
piece of
history Director of Public Affairs, Navy Region Hawaii Lydia Robertson Deputy Director of Public Affairs, Navy Region Hawaii Mike Andrews Director of Public Affairs, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Chuck Anthony Director of Public Affairs, Pacific Missile Range Facility Tom Clements Editor Anna General
Command website:
https://www.cnic.navy.mil/Hawaii 2 HO’OKELE • JUNE 2021
Contributing Public Affairs Staff Jim Neuman MC1 Holly Herline Elaine Phillips MC2 Charles Oki Mel Gonzalvo MC2 Gregory Hall AD1 Mike Henderson
Ho‘okele is a free digital publication. 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, JBPHH, Hawaii, 96860-4884. Telephone: (808) 473-2888; fax (808) 473-2876. This is an authorized publication primarily for members of the uniformed 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, and the military branch of services and do not imply endorsement thereof. A Hui Hou!
CONTENTS
Your Navy Team in Hawaii Commander, Navy Region Hawaii oversees two installations: Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam on Oahu and Pacific Missile Range Facility, Barking Sands, on Kauai. As Naval Surface Group Middle Pacific, we provide oversight for the ten surface ships homeported at JBPHH. Navy aircraft squadrons are also co-located at Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Kaneohe, Oahu, and training is sometimes also conducted on other islands, but most Navy assets are located at JBPHH and PMRF. These two installations serve fleet, fighter and family under the direction of Commander, Navy Installations Command. A guided-missile cruiser and destroyers of Commander, Naval Surface Force Pacific deploy independently or as part of a group for Commander, U.S. Third Fleet and in the Seventh Fleet and Fifth Fleet areas of responsibility. The Navy, including your Navy team in Hawaii, builds partnerships and strengthens interoperability in the Pacific. Each year, Navy ships, submarines and aircraft from Hawaii participate in various training exercises with allies and friends in the Pacific and Indian Oceans to strengthen interoperability. Navy service members and civilians conduct humanitarian assistance and disaster response missions in the South Pacific and in Asia. Working with the U.S. Coast Guard, the Navy in Hawaii provides drug interdiction and fisheries enforcement operations for Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet. In even-numbered years Hawaii hosts the biennial summer Rim of the Pacific Exercise, the world’s largest military maritime exercise, featuring more than two dozen nations and 25,000 personnel.
04-09
SAFETY AND AWARENESS - PCS Season - Hurricane Season - Q&A with Federal Fire Department
10-13 14-17 18-19 20-21 22-23
COVER STORY Summer Safety HISTORY AND HERITAGE Battle of Midway DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION The Navy, LGBT Pride
REAR ADM. ROBB CHADWICK
FAMILY AND COMMUNITY New Parent Support Program PHOTO HIGHLIGHTS BACK COVER MWR Summer Craft Camps
The Navy family in Hawaii comprises around 50,000 people, most of whom are active duty service members and their families, and includes nearly 15,000 civilians and contractors as part of our workforce.
Commander Story Header │00 Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam
JBPHH includes the Pearl Harbor waterfront, Hickam flight line, Wahiawa annex and several other areas in West Oahu and provides a major logistics and other support hub for the military and military families. Supporting the nation’s ballistic missile defense initiative, the Pacific Missile Range Facility on the western coast of“The Garden Island,” is the world’s largest instrumented multidimensional testing and training missile range. We provide services to the U.S. Pacific Command, one of DOD’s six geographic combatant commands, with an area of responsibility covering half the globe. We directly support two component commands whose headquarters are on JBPHH: Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet and Commander, U.S. Pacific Air Force. Close to our own Region/ MIDPAC headquarters command is Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet. With 18 forward-deployable combat-ready U.S. Navy submarines, Pearl Harbor is home to the largest submarine presence in the Pacific. The Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard, on JBPHH, is the largest ship repair facility between the West Coast and the Far East. Within our region we support more than 100 tenant commands.
Commander Navy Region Hawaii and Naval Surface Group Middle Pacific
CAPT. ERIK SPITZER
ON THE COVER:
(Photo courtesy of JBPHH MWR GreatLifeHawaii)
Illustration by Elaine Phillips
connect with us
Commanding Officer Pacific Missle Range Facility @NavRegHawaii @JointBasePHH
@NavyRegionHawaii @JBPHH @JBPHH @PacificMissileRangeFacility
CAPT. TIMOTHY YOUNG
JUNE 2021 • HO’OKELE 3
Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) aims to ensure the safety of military personnel and their families by conducting 100% customer service checks on all inbound and outbound Household Goods (HHG) shipments. Sailors can expect the following:
100% Customer Service checks on ALL inbound and outbound HHG Shipments.
ARE YOU READY TO PCS?
Provided a Certification of Health Protection Protocols document which ensures Transportation Service Provider is adhering to CDC guidelines. Crews will adhere to social distancing and good hand hygiene. Crews will wear face coverings. Crews will sanitize all touched surfaces.
For more information: NAVSUP 855.444.6683 householdgoods@navy.mil MyNAVY Career Center (MNCC) 24/7 833.330.MNCC (6622) askmncc@navy.mil
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SAFETY AND AWARENESS
PCS SEASON P R E PA R I N G YOU R M OV E Story by NAVSUP FLC Pearl Harbor Public Affairs Layout by Elaine Phillips
Summer is upon us and June marks the start of PCS season. In anticipation of the peak household goods moving season, service members and their families receive orders to move to their next duty station. Have you ever heard the old saying “It’s your move?” With the Defense Personal Property System (DPS), it really is “your move.” DPS streamlines move management and provides a communication system between you and the transportation service provider (TSP), which is also known as your moving company. STEP NO.
HERE ARE 10 STEPS TO SET UP YOUR MOVE
001
(Photo by Daniel Mayberry)
What is DPS? DPS is a self-service system that can help you manage Department of Defense (DoD) household goods moves. This is where you submit your move paperwork and complete self-counseling, track shipments, and file a claim online and settle directly with your moving company to get a full replacement value of lost and damaged goods. A customer satisfaction survey is also available to fill out to ensure quality service from reputable companies for future DoD shipments.
STEP NO.
Obtain a user ID and password. Go to www.move.mil. New users can create an account while returning users can click “Sign into DPS.”
Move confirmation – Once all necessary documents are uploaded and a personal property customer reviews your application, then your shipment can be booked with a TSP. Once booked, you will receive a confirmation with the TSP information assigned to move your shipment. As pack date nears, the TSP will schedule a pre-move survey and STEP NO. finalize your pack/pickup dates. 006
002
Check compatibility/Turn offpop-up blockers – Follow the flashing link under “welcome to ETA” on the homepage of DPS. You may also call the help desk anytime, 24/7 at 800462-2176, option 5.
STEP NO.
007
Track shipment – Log into DPS, click “shipment management,” expand the main menu on the left side, then locate the correct shipment to view.
Log into account and acknowledge branch of service – New users who never created a DPS move application must click the appropriate icon for the branch of service. Returning users don’t need to acknowledge the branch of service again.
STEP NO. Upload signed supporting documents – Complete the move application – 004 This includes orders, a signed DD Form Click the button “start a new move,” 1299 (application for shipment) and create or update profile, enter orders a signed DD Form 1797 (personal information and create shipment request. STEP NO. property counseling checklist). 005 Depending on your destination, File loss/damage report claim – You have you may require a Power of Attorney, STEP NO. dependent entry approval (if going over- 009 75 days from delivery to notify the TSP if you will be filing a claim. seas) and a POV/motorcycle registration.
008
STEP NO.
STEP NO.
003
Arrange delivery – The best way is to work with your TSP directly. Another option is to log into DPS, go to the shipment management tab, locate your shipment and update your information.
Customer satisfaction survey – This is the final step and has a direct impact on TSP ability to be awarded DoD shipments.
STEP NO.
010
For more information on personal property and household goods, visit https://www.navsup.navy. mil/household or email householdgoods@navy.mil.
JUNE 2021 • HO’OKELE 5
SAFETY AND AWARENESS
Near- or belownormal hurricane season predicted for the Central Pacific Compiled by CNRH Public Affairs The Central Pacific hurricane season runs from June through November 30. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Central Pacific Hurricane Center and Climate Prediction Center, there is a 45% chance of near-normal tropical cyclone activity during the Central Pacific hurricane season this year. The outlook also indicates a 35% chance for below-normal activity, and 20% chance of an above-normal season. Two to five tropical cyclones, which includes tropical depressions, named storms, and hurricanes, are predicted for the Central Pacific hurricane region this season. A near-normal season has four or five tropical cyclones. “This year we will likely see less activity in the Central Pacific region compared to more active seasons,” said Matthew Rosencrans, NOAA’s lead seasonal hurricane forecaster at the Climate Prediction Center. “Less activity is predicted since ocean temperatures are likely to be near- to below average in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean where hurricanes form, and because El Nino is not present to increase the activity.” This outlook is a general guide to the overall seasonal tropical cyclone activity in the Central
(Photo courtesy of NOAA)
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Pacific basin, and does not predict whether, or how many, of these systems will affect Hawaii. “As we have experienced in previous hurricane seasons, it only takes one direct hit, or even a close call, to have a major impact on daily life here in the Hawaiian Islands,” said Chris Brenchley, director of NOAA’s Central Pacific Hurricane Center. “Take time to prepare now. Make a preparedness plan so that you and your family stay healthy and safe.” The Central Pacific Hurricane Center continuously monitors weather conditions, employing a network of satellites, landand ocean-based sensors, and aircraft reconnaissance missions operated by NOAA and its partners. This array of data supplies the information for complex computer modeling and human expertise, which are the basis for the center’s storm track and intensity forecasts. These forecasts are made available to the public and media, and help provide critical decision support services to emergency managers at the federal, state and county levels. Check the Central Pacific Hurricane Center’s website at https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/?cpac throughout the season to stay on top of any watches and warnings, and visit FEMA’s Ready. gov for additional hurricane preparedness tips.
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS STARTS WITH YOU Visit: ready.hawaii.gov
ARE YOU 2 WEEKS READY? BUILD KITS
Have Go Bags ready for work, each family member, pets, & a vehicle safety kit too.
PLAN TO BE ON YOUR OWN FOR AT LEAST 2 WEEKS Water (1 gal. per person/day) Food (Non-perishable) First Aid Kit Medical Equipment Medications NOAA Alert Radio Extra Batteries
Flashlight Can Opener Tools Warm Clothes Sturdy Shoes Personal Hygiene Items Toilet Paper
Pet Supplies Fire Extinguisher Glasses/Eye Care Cash Identification Important Documents Comfort/Entertainment
JUNE 2021 • HO’OKELE 7 APRIL 2021 • HO’OKELE 7
SAFETY AND AWARENESS
A Day in the Life of a Firefighter Q&A with Federal Fire Department Hawaii Story and photos by Melvin Gonzalvo Layout by MC2 Charles Oki
F
irefighters have provided fire protection and emergency services for Hawaii military installations for nearly 100 years. The first fire station established on Oahu for the military was built by the Army in 1924. Soon after, the Navy established a second fire station in 1926. Both fire stations were run only by military personnel until 1946. However, it was not until 1979 that the Army, Navy, and Air Force made the decision to merge operations to become Federal Fire Department (FFD) Hawaii. Since then, FFD Hawaii has increased operations to include 269 civilian personnel, 27 military personnel, and 14 fire stations that oversee 198 square miles on Oahu and 6.5 square miles at the Pacific Missile Range Facility on Kauai. Recently, Prevention Division Battalion Chief (District 2) Albert Balderama, Operations Division District Chief 2 (North) Jeremy Rhode, and Regional Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Chief Douglas Asano talked about how FFD Hawaii dealt with COVID-19 and provided advice on staying safe in Hawaii during the summer months.
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Q1: Tell us about your duties in
the department.
Balderama: The duties within the Prevention Division include fire inspections, fire investigations, and public education such as fire warden, permit authorizing individual fire drills for children, public events, and other activities upon request. Rhode: I manage 92 personnel to provide emergency response to six installations (Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps). A part of my duties involve managing the department’s personal protective equipment (PPE), tools and equipment programs. Additionally, I serve as the department’s accreditation manager, and health and safety officer. Asano: I manage 23 personnel that provide advanced life-support paramedic-level ambulance services to most major military installations on the island of Oahu (Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps). Some other duties include managing the department’s EMS division and the communications programs for FFD Hawaii.
Q2:
What inspired you to work in this field and/or for FFD Hawaii?
Balderama: The ability to help others and be a public servant. Rhode: My father is a retired FFD chief officer and my older brother, Eric, served with FFD for 20 years prior to accepting a position at CNIC [Commander, Navy Installations Command]. I have always been drawn to public service.
Q3: What is your department’s primary role and why is it important to Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam (JBPHH)? Balderama: To provide fire safety awareness and prevent fire through fire inspections, fire investigations, and public education.
Asano: With the exception of law enforcement duties, the FFD is an all hazard response department capable of handling structure fires, shipboard fires, wildland fires, aircraft emergencies, HAZMAT incidents, confined space technical rescue, paramedic level emergency medical services transport, and fire investigation.
Q5: How has COVID-19 changed the day-to-day operations of your department? Balderama: We couldn’t have public events and community involvement to provide fire safety and awareness. Rhode: Proper wear of PPE and disinfecting procedures have always been a priority for FFD, however, COVID-19 really intensified the need to stay protected on all types of calls. Asano: Daily operations now require an increased consumption of PPE to include the combination of N95 masks, respirators, eye protection, face shields, gowns and gloves. Additionally, the concepts of infection control and decontamination have a higher level of seriousness and are the new normal for EMS crews.
Q6: What has your department
done to stay safe during the COVID-19 pandemic while out in the field? Balderama: Continuously following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, JBPHH, and state policies and guidelines. Rhode: Electrostatic sprayers were purchased for each station and advanced life support (ALS) ambulance to prevent station closures. The sprayers utilize a non-toxic solution to disinfect all surfaces within 10 minutes and allow our personnel, equipment, and apparatus to remain available for community response.
Rhode: FFD is an all-hazards emergency response organization serving active duty members, Department of Defense civilians, and contractors on military installations on the island of Oahu.
Asano: Electrostatic sprayers, CaviWipes, hand sanitizers, and other infection control products were purchased. This ensured that firefighter/paramedics and EMTs working in the field have the ability to clean and decontaminate the durable medical equipment used.
Q4: What other services does
Q7: How have FFD personnel
FFD Hawaii provide to the Pearl Harbor community?
stayed healthy and fit during COVID-19?
Rhode: Many firefighters adjusted to gym closures by adopting body weight exercise routines and working on their cardiovascular health. Additionally, we have seen a dramatic improvement by members taking part in ketogenic eating habits.
Q8: How does FFD Hawaii
prepare for the summer months opposed to other times of the year?
Rhode: To prepare for the start of wildfire season in June, FFD’s annual training plan has wildfire specific training scheduled in May. This training allows our response personnel to get mentally and physically prepared for rigorous firefighting operations in difficult terrain throughout the summer months.
Q9: What is the most common
emergency the department gets called to assist with during the summer months? What can people do to avoid this?
Balderama: Wildland fires. During the summer months, many people want to have a barbecue. People need to ensure the proper extinguishing equipment is nearby, including taking the appropriate steps to dispose of fuel. Rhode: Historically, we see an increase in heat-related emergencies during the summer months because people want to take advantage of Hawaii’s amazing weather and the various activities provided on military installations. Staying hydrated and knowing your specific physical limitation prior to participating in stressful activities can help to avoid health emergencies.
Q10: What are some important
tips people should know to help them enjoy the summer safely?
Rhode: Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen. Pay attention to posted safety signs at the beach and responsibly celebrate the July Fourth holiday.
Q11: What is the best part about
working at FFD Hawaii?
Balderama: Helping the public, meeting new people, and developing healthy relationships. JUNE 2021 • HO’OKELE 9
101
CRITICAL DAYS OF SUMMER Story by AD1 Mike Henderson Layout by Elaine Phillips
L
iving in a tropical island paradise can feel like it is summer year-round. However, many activities become more prevalent as the summer months roll in. All military branches call this the “101 Critical Days of Summer.” The 101 critical days of summer safety campaign runs from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. With summer as the longest vacation period of the year, Hawaii is often the travel destination of choice. As COVID-19 restrictions begin to relax, there will most likely be an increase in military local population and tourists out enjoying the warm Hawaiian sun. Now think back to only a year ago when everyone was stuck in their homes...the thought of warm weather, swimming, boating, playing, and traveling seemed like a day that would only be far off into the future. "There is no doubt the past year has been hard as COVID-19 forced us to adapt to a new way of life as we continued to meet our operational commitments across the Navy and Marine Corps during a global pandemic," said Rear Adm. F. R. Luchtman, commander, Naval Safety Center. While “the light” is starting to shine at the end of this very long and dark tunnel, a maintained toughness and resilience need to be upheld to continue to endure the effects COVID-19 has placed upon all the countries around the world.
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“It's critical that we acknowledge the ways we have been affected by the pandemic. We want everyone to get out and enjoy their summer, but we also want you to stay safe, and make good decisions while engaging in summer activities,” said Luchtman. The 101 Critical Days of Summer campaign provides information to raise awareness to reduce risks associated with the most common off-duty mishaps. During this time, fatality rates have historically spiked. Each year from fiscal years (FY) 2016 2020, the Department of the Navy (DON) lost an average of five Sailors and nine Marines in off-duty mishaps. Hawaii is a beautiful place to enjoy fun in the sun with family and friends year-round. However, the perils of Hawaii can be very deceptive. The Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam (JBPHH) Safety department encourages everyone to “Know before you go,” — always have a plan, and practice operational risk management (ORM) whether in the workplace, at home, or at play. Recreational off-duty mishaps commonly result with one common denominator, the lack of practicing ORM to mitigate high-risk activities to an acceptable level. It is encouraged for personnel to notify their command before participating in any high-risk activity.
COVER STORY
IVITIES
WAT ERRE
CT DA E T LA
What a great place to start when talking about 101 days of summer. We are on an island and water is everywhere, but not all beaches in Hawaii are the same. Some people may think they are strong swimmers and spend a lot of time at one particular beach. Even if the conditions look favorable, tides and currents could be different, which is dangerous if you’re not ready. Here are some things to conside before getting into the water:
Make sure a lifeguard is on duty It is best to get into the ocean where a lifeguard is present. Some may think they are good or strong swimmers, but conditions change and someone may need help.
Always swim with a buddy The “Buddy System” should always be utilized. Do not allow anyone to swim alone.
Never leave a child unattended in the water A pool can look completely harmless but did you know that in 2018 there were at least 148 drowning’s that lead to the eventual death of children under 15 years old? Young children must always be supervised while in or near the water, whether at home, at the beach or at a pool to prevent drowning.
Know the rules of boating. Be BOATsmart
Know your swimming limits. Use proper gear
The ocean is vast and there are potential dangers that could be lurking around the corner. Think of all of the other boaters, the need to use proper lanes of traffic, potential wildlife hazards to include coral reefs, and divers. Hawaii law prohibits anyone from boating while intoxicated (BWI)—that is, operating a vessel while under the influence of intoxicating liquor, narcotics, or other habit-forming drugs.
Being able to go under the sea to view the world below the surface can be exhilarating, but getting the proper training and education is advised. Make sure the gear is in good condition. Many of Hawaii's water-related fatalities are due to not knowing how to properly use snorkeling equipment.
Check weather conditions A storm at sea can greatly affect the surf at the beach even on a sunny day. Always check the local weather report before heading out.
Be careful when hiking near water A small stream can turn into a deadly rushing river in a matter of minutes. It’s just like when checking the weather for rain on beach days, one should do the same when hiking.
JUNE 2021 • HO’OKELE 11
N
HIK I
G
Y FET A S
From water safety to hiking, it is good to know the weather conditions, know your experience level and the essentials you need to carry in your backpack. With the abundance of mountains and jungles, it may be enticing to explore a part of the island found on the internet. Many of the locations found on the internet are located on private property and can possibly get a hiker arrested or fined. On some hiking trails, some people may spot wild boars while exploring. So before going on a journey, here are some things to consider:
Know your physical limit and research
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate
Make sure that you research the trail you are considering and that you are physically fit to make it back to where you started.
A single glass of water, before any activity, is never enough. Drinking at least eight cups of water every day to stay properly hydrated can avoid any heat-related injury.
Never hike alone Where are you going? When do you plan to return? Lastly, always stay on the sanctioned trail. Going off the trail could result in a delayed rescue if ever needed.
Wear the proper hiking gear While board shorts, tank tops, and “rubbah slippahs” [flip flops] may be your preferred way to dress on a normal day, you need to ensure that you have the proper footgear for the terrain and clothing for the environment that you are in.
Plan before you go It may be fun to just get in your car and go, but it is always wise to make sure someone knows your plans. Keep your cell phone charged; this helps rescuer’s find you.
Protect your skin Some people might think that “a little sun” won’t hurt, but even “a little sun” over time can cause irreversible damage to the skin and can even lead to developing melanomas (skin cancer). It is wise to continually apply sunblock as per the manufacturer’s recommendations, whether in the water, out of the water, or spending a day at the park.
Keep track of your body temperature Other heat-related illnesses such as hypothermia, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke are caused by the inability to maintain core body temperature. Prompt treatment of heatrelated illnesses with aggressive fluid replacement and cooling of core body temperature is critical to reducing illness and preventing death.
HEAT-RELATE
DI
L LN S ES
Heat-related illnesses are very serious and should always be treated quickly. Heat-related illnesses in Hawaii are not limited to sunburns, heat cramps hypothermia, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. All of these heat-related illnesses can be avoided by taking simple measures to mitigate risks.
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M
Going out with friends after work to play various sports may come with risks that could easily be avoided if proper tasks are done before sporting activities.
SU M
ER
TS INJURIES R O SP
COVER STORY
Stay hydrated Remember a minimum of eight cups a day will keep the cramps away.
Don’t forget to stretch Warm up and stretch before playing a game. Nothing is worse than running to score a game-winning touchdown then pull a muscle and lose the game.
Wear appropriate safety gear When it comes to safety, wearing the proper gear can prevent injuries.
DRIVING SAFETY Whether driving here on the island or traveling to the mainland, it’s encouraged to be mindful of the warning signs of driving while fatigued or when another driver on the road appears to be. There are several warning sign of fatigue. However, individuals often don't understand them or worse, choose to ignore them. So you might think “Who is most at risk?” Sleep-deprived normally comes to mind quickly, but even when well-rested and taking a short flight to a neighbor island, the vibrations from the engine, both in the car and airplane, can wear a body out even after a full night's rest. Some warning signs to watch out for to assess whether to drive further include drifting from the lane or hitting a rumble strip, yawning repeatedly, difficulty focusing or keeping eyes open, tailgating or missing traffic signs, or trouble keeping head up. It is best to stop and take a break, as you are in control of a vehicle that can potentially hurt or kill someone if you fall asleep at the wheel.
Make the proper choices by utilizing at risk assessment tool (see graph below) to succeed in all planned activities by simply implementing ORM. Theodore Roosevelt said it perfectly “A dream doesn’t become reality through magic; it takes sweat, determination, and hard work. Work hard and play hard. When you play, play hard; when you work, don’t play at all.” So let’s safely sail into tomorrow together to ride another wave, hike another mountain peak, and see another sunset!
For more information on the 101 critical days of summer campaign, visit https://navalsafetycenter.navy.mil/.
Risk Assessment Matrix The Risk Assessment Code (RAC) Matrix is used to determine the RAC for a hazard. You must cross probability and severity to obtain this code.
JUNE 2021 • HO’OKELE 13
HISTORY AND HERITAGE
“The Battle of Midway will forever hold a place of supreme merit in the annals of U.S. Navy history.”
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T
he Battle of Midway, a pivotal moment in naval history considered as the turning point of the Pacific Theater in World War II, marks this year as the 79th anniversary of the decisive American victory fought between June 3-7, 1942. This year also marks an important milestone in the history of America and the veterans who fought for our freedom as Dec. 7 will mark the 80th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor which thrust America into the firestorm of World War II.
Remembering Milestones Story by Jim Neuman, CNRH Historian Layout by Anna General
Though the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor left the U.S. Pacific Fleet crippled, the resolve of the American people revealed that the United States was down, but not out. For six months, American forces in the Pacific suffered defeatafter-defeat until struggling to keep a determined enemy at bay while new forces were trained, and new ships and aircraft were brought online. In June 1942, the die was cast when Japanese and American naval forces clashed several hundred miles northwest of the American outpost on Midway Atoll. In the ensuing battle, American aircraft dealt a crushing blow to the Imperial Japanese Navy. Dive bombers from the carriers USS Yorktown (CV 5) and USS Enterprise (CV 6) destroyed Japan’s frontline carriers Hiryu, Soryu, Akagi and Kaga. All four had participated in the attack on Pearl Harbor just six months before, and all four now lay at the bottom of the Pacific. The U.S. victory at Midway significantly curbed Imperial Japanese offensive capabilities and shifted the balance of sea power in favor of the Allies. As a result of the battle, Japanese forces would never again launch a major offensive and American ground, sea and air forces would soon be brought to bear in a campaign to roll back the Japanese Empire until victory was secured in 1945. The Battle of Midway will forever hold a place of supreme merit in the annals of U.S. Navy history. For more information, visit the Naval History and Heritage Command website at https://www.history.navy.mil/. JUNE 2021 • HO’OKELE 15
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JUNE 2021 • HO’OKELE 17
DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION
A Sailor’s Perspective: The Navy,
LGBT Pride Story by OS1 Ashlyn MillsParker, PACFLT Contributing Writer Layout by MC2 Gregory Hall
D
uring the month of June, the U.S. Navy observes Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Month with pride. This month, Sailors honor the LGBT community, reflect on the challenges faced, and truly identify the impact the LGBT community has on the U.S. Navy. From 1993 to 2011, Defense Directive 1304.26 (Don’t Ask. Don’t Tell.) made it punishable for service
members to display any form of homosexuality. After years of fighting this hurtful legacy, the directive was officially repealed in 2011, allowing service members to serve while being open about their sexuality. The repeal resulted in an immediate observation of LGBT Pride Month, starting June 2012 by the Department of Defense, and was led by former Chief of Naval Operations, Adm. Gary Roughead. With Roughead’s initiative, this month, we can recognize the service members that fought for this nation—service members who were not even provided the opportunity to be forthright about their sexuality or live in their truth. During the signing ceremony for the Human Goals Charter in April 2014, former U.S. Sen. Chuck Hagel stated that “what matters is an individual’s patriotism, their willingness to serve their country, and their qualifications to do so. And that’s all that ever should.” As the maritime service branch to the United States Armed Forces, we use June to celebrate that patriotism, willingness to serve, and freedom. We celebrate diversity, inclusion, and equality for service members, veterans, and civilians.
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“We celebrate that that chapter in our history is now over and increasingly forgotten,” said former Deputy Defense Secretary Bob Work during a DOD Pride Month ceremony at the Pentagon in 2014. “They were forced by law to compromise their values. To choose between serving the country they love and being true to themselves.”
“All of our warriors deserve to be treated with dignity and respect,” said U.S. Pacific Fleet Master Chief James Honea. Regardless of who our shipmate is to the left or right of us, we must do our part by ensuring their safety.
“What matters is an individual’s patriotism,
their willingness to serve their country, and their qualifications to do so. And that’s all that ever should.” - Former Sen. Chuck Hagel So when we celebrate the LGBT community, we must do so with ultimate pride. While we join the rest of the nation in celebration, it is important to recognize that every day we must do our part by listening to understand, being sensitive to such an evolving community, and acknowledging the challenges they continue to face in 2021. As we go on tackling any form of discrimination and intolerance based on sexual orientation, ethnicity, gender identity, expression, or sex characteristics, it is also important to remember we are all responsible for safeguarding human rights.
As a service member and affiliate of the LGBT community myself, I highly encourage that we, as a cohesive force, continue to learn from history and take pride in our shipmates being unapologetically themselves.
For more information on naval service of LGBT personnel, visit the Naval History and Heritage Command at https://go.usa.gov/x63a8. JUNE 2021 • HO’OKELE 19
FAMILY AND COMMUNITY
About 36% of active duty service members across the military branches are parents to more than 977,191 children that are part of the military community. According to the Department of Defense, nearly half of those children are under the age of five. Many of these parents are taking on the early years of parenthood stationed away from their home of record, community, family members, and friends. Some take this challenge head-on with little to no complications, while others may long for a local support system. New Parent Support Program (NPSP) is a flexible program offered by the Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Military Family Support Center (MFSC) designed to meet the needs of those trying to start a family, currently expecting, or with children three years or younger. Enrollment is completely voluntary and there are a variety of preventative services and education resources aimed at developing a healthy and effective lifestyle for parenthood. Those looking to attend only the one-time classes, which include Bringing Home Baby, Infant Massage, and Virtual Story Time for children, can get more information and sign up through MFSC social media pages and the Great Life Hawaii website or app. ”Parents and expectant parents usually learn parenting skills from their family or friends,” said Mara Macdonald, NPSP coordinator. “Being far from home, NPSP is a great way for us to be there for some of the transitions parenting can bring.” Official program enrollment for home visitations and individualized support requires completion of a series of paperwork. Expecting mothers should receive referral information in
New PArent Sup A Family Away From Home
the obstetrician registration packets provided at the Makalapa, Tripler and 15th Wing military treatment facilities. Enrollment can also be started at any time of eligibility by contacting MFSC directly. The program prides itself on its inclusiveness and is open to activeduty Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard members island-wide, including virtual services for those on other islands. We serve parents from a wide range in ages and a whole variety from officer to enlisted members. There is no family dynamic that would be turned down, explained Macdonald. The program starts with parenting indexes that consider the family situation regarding aspects like parenting stances, possible past traumas, and knowledge level on care and developmental stages, etc. This is how the coordinators gauge what resources will be most valuable or suited. From there, every participant’s experience becomes highly individualized. “We are completely flexible to the needs of the family,” said
(Editor’s note: Due to privacy reasons, last names of Navy spouses were not disclosed in this story.)
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Macdonald. “We teach positive parenting skills, build awareness on the tough topics, work with deployed spouses, give the tools to promote self-care, help reach out to community services, assist with early intervention and help track child development. There is a vast amount of potential needs and we work hard to meet them.” Families receive one on one sessions at the date, interval, and place of their choice to spend time with their counselor, receive recommended information or address any concerns they personally have. The families can also receive any necessary
For More Information: Military Family Support Center 4827 Bougainville Drive Honolulu, HI 96818 Phone: (808) 474-1999 Email: mfschawaii@navy.mil www.greatlifehawaii.com jbphh.mfsc @jbphh_mfsc
pport Program
Story and layout by MC1 Holly Herline
or desired referrals to community resources, supplemental programs, or medical resources, etc. For example, disclosure of past or current trauma can get parents linked with services aimed at addressing potential problems from that. There is a whole list of counselors at MFSC that focus specifically on everything from children to relationships and are free to utilize. “I think people are surprised to find out how many resources become available, and how much networking can be done for them by utilizing the program,” said Seana Andrzejewski, NPSP home visitor. “Even though
MFSC Education Team also offers a variety of parenting and family relationship courses available to active duty, reserve and retired ID card holders. Class descriptions, schedule and sign-up, as well as, NPSP information can be found on the Great Life Hawaii website and app.
people can Google things, they are not always going to find a direct line to what they need. That is what we provide. They have us with them to talk through materials and information and bounce their ideas off the different skills that our team has.” The program is comprised of four home visitors, each with a diverse and unique background in serving children and families and years of experience within the military and Hawaiian community. “I expected to get some basic resources for baby like safety and baby proofing,” said Tiffany, Navy spouse and program participant. “The program exceeded my expectations by far. Seana is my home visitor and has been such an amazing person in my life. She has been my son’s and my cheerleader for every milestone or development and a comfort and voice of reason when I stress about things he is falling behind in developmentally.” The NPSP is an indispensable resource for getting connected to military resources like parenting and family relationship classes provided by the MFSC education team,
the Exceptional Family Member Program, school liaisons, and counseling services. They also have connections to Hawaiian community services like the Women, Infants & Children program, food stamps, early intervention education services, speech and occupational therapy and more. “It was nice to have a sounding board with someone who was deeply knowledgeable, friendly, and extremely accessible,” said Chelsea, Navy spouse and program participant. “While [valuable to] having someone to check on milestones with and discuss child safety, it was more valuable for me to have a supportive friend at that time.” If nothing else, NPSP provides a sense of community to those who utilize the program and are a supplemental support system to both the parents and child. “I don’t think I necessarily needed a lot of the basic parenting advice; it was the camaraderie I needed,” said Chelsea. “Just having someone checking in on you to make sure you are coping and listen to you whine and cry, when necessary, but also to rejoice and celebrate in your milestones as a parent, not just your child’s.” The team works hard to avoid any stigma with the program and wants to normalize parenting anxieties. They remain a preventative service. Participation in the voluntary program ends when the family’s youngest child reaches the age of 3, the family leaves the duty location, or they decide they are no longer in need of services. “I’d tell someone who is hesitant to join that I was in their shoes,” said Tiffany. “I feel very awkward and shy. I was very nervous about having a home visitor, but Seana has been wonderful and always makes me feel confident in myself.” JUNE 2021 • HO’OKELE 21
PHOTO HIGHLIGHTS 22 HO’OKELE • JUNE 2021
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Sailors assigned to Navy Region Hawaii and the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) conduct a funeral for U.S. Navy Bandmaster James B. Booe, 42, of Veedersburg, Indiana, at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, Honolulu June 1. Booe was assigned to the USS Oklahoma which sustained fire from Japanese aircraft and multiple torpedo hits causing the ship to capsize and resulted in the deaths of more than 400 crew members on Dec. 7, 1941, at Ford Island, Pearl Harbor. Booe was recently identified through DNA analysis by the DPAA forensic laboratory and laid to rest with full military honors. (Photo by SSgt. Michael O'Neal)
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Sailors assigned to the Los Angelesclass fast-attack submarine USS Columbia (SSN 771) load a Mark 48 advanced capability torpedo at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam on June 2 for Exercise Agile Dagger 2021. (Photo by MC1 Michael B. Zingaro)
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2nd Lt. Deborah Kwan, 154th Wing public affairs officer, and Col. Boling, Hawaii Air National Guard chaplain, received an incentive flight aboard a KC-135 Stratotanker from the 203rd Air Refueling Squadron May 25. The passengers and aircrew were completely comprised of Asian American and Pacific Islander Airmen to honor AAPI Heritage Month and celebrate diversity in the U.S. Military. (Photo by SrA Robert Cabuco)
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Master at Arms 2nd Class Julian Reid and Sshelton, 647th Security Forces military working dog handler and military working dog, train together at the obedience course at Joint Base Pearl HarborHickam May 7. Military working dogs that are born into the Department of Defense Military Working Dog Breeding Program and trained at Joint Base San AntonioLackland, Texas, are designated with a double letter name like Sshelton. (Photo by A1C Makensie Cooper)
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The Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Columbia (SSN 771) departs Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard for sea trials May 6. During their engineered overhaul (EOH) availability, the shipyard and crew performed essential repairs and modernization, as well as routine maintenance, to ensure the submarine operates at full technical capacity and mission capability. (Photo by MC1 Michael Zingaro)
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Adm. Samuel Paparo, commander of U.S. Pacific Fleet, presents a relic from the USS Arizona (BB-39) to the crew of the Arleigh Burke-class destroyer USS Chung-Hoon (DDG 93) May 20, in remembrance and commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. The relic originates from a section of the superstructure of the Arizona that was removed from the ship when the Arizona Memorial was constructed. (Photo by MC1 Nate Laird)
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JUNE 2021 • HO’OKELE 23
CRAFT CAMPS
at the Hickam Arts & Crafts Center $70 per student (ages 7 & up), per weekly session Tuesday-Friday | 10am-12pm SESSIONS:
June 1-4
July 6-9
June 8-11
July 13-16
June 15-18
July 20-23
June 22-25
July 27-30
SIGN UP SOON, CLASSES FILL UP FAST! To register, visit greatlifehawaii.com & search: Arts and Crafts Registration QUESTIONS? CALL 448-9907 335 Kuntz Ave, Bldg 1889
June 29-July 2
There’s no limit to the beauty a child can create when given some instruction and artistic freedom. Different arts and crafts projects presented each week.
@hickamac @GreatLifeHawaii
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