Expeditionary Express September by Navy Expeditionary Combat Command/NECC Pacific

EXpeditionary e xpre s s A

Navy

E xpedi t i on ary

Meet NECC’s New Psych From Dirt Bikes to Harleys 30 Years of Riding Safely

NECC/JEBLC-FS Commands

Welcome New Chiefs

Sailors, Veterans, Citizens of Natchez Remember 9/11

Co m bat

Com m and

Pu bl i cat io n

Chief’s Pinning

deckplate leaders... arriving!

september 2016

Suicide prevention: seeking help is a sign of strength 11

Vol. 1 Issue 2

Expeditionary

EXECUTIVE’S

Executive’s Corner

News You Can Use

NECC Overview

and Family Support Centers in conjunction with the Virginia Department of Veteran’s Services, offers a Veteran’s Disability Benefits Review Workshop.

NECC’s embedded mental health program. NECC has eleven embedded mental health providers stationed on four different locations: Virginia Beach, Gulfport, San Diego, and Port Hueneme.

Suicide Prevention: Knowing When to Seek Help is a Sign of Strength - Building resilience

Fleet and Family Support Center to offer Veteran’s Disability Benefits Workshop - Fleet

What is your why?

Meet NECC’s Psychologist, Cmdr. Robert Hines - I am honored to be the program manager for 4

Navy Chaplain Marks 30 Years of Riding Motorcycles, Offers Safety Tips - For more

than 30 years, nearly as long as he has served in the U.S. Navy, Capt. Bruce Boyle of Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC)/NECC Pacific has been riding motorcycles, all types from dirt bikes to Harleys.

Sailors, Veterans, and Citizens of Natchez Remember 9/11 - Sailors, veterans, and Natchez

city leaders conducted a solemn ceremony at Natchez National Cemetery to commemorate the 15th anniversary of 9/11.

Two MK VI Patrol Boats Arrive In Pacific - Commander, Task Force (CTF) 75 took

and preventing suicide requires all members of the Navy and Marine Corps community to work together.

Around The Fleet

CNO to Host World’s Largest Maritime Conference - Chief of Naval Operations (CNO)

Adm. John Richardson will host the 22nd International Seapower Symposium (ISS-22) Sept. 21-23 at the U.S. Naval War College (NWC) in Newport, Rhode Island.

13th MCPON Retires, 14th Takes Charge -

Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) Michael D. Stevens was relieved by Fleet Master Chief Steven S. Giordano during his retirement and change of office ceremony held on Washington Navy Yard Sept. 2.

permanent ownership of two MK VI patrol boats at Naval Base Guam, Aug. 24. 8

how to get help

/NavyExpeditionaryCombatCommand

@COMNECC @NECC

NECC Public Affairs Officer Lt. Cmdr. Jennifer Cragg Comm: (757) 462-4316 ext. 252

NECC Public Affairs Staff MC2 (SW/AW) Travis DiPerna MC3 (SW/AW) Lauren Booher

Email: jennifer.cragg@navy.mil

Design: Lt. Tim Pietrack

Navy Celebrates 75th anniversary of EOD Excellence

E xpre s s

c o rn e r WHAT IS YOUR WHY? By Nancy Harned Executive Director, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command/Navy Expeditionary Combat Command Pacific

What motivates you? What keeps you going when things get tough? Have you figured out your “WHY”? I’m very honored to have an opportunity to share some thoughts in the “Expeditionary Express” magazine. As NECC/NECCPAC Executive Director I enjoy working across our community and contributing to our Command mission and vision. As a leader, I have found that understanding my WHY has been critical to both my personal and professional accomplishments. Start with Why Early in his tenure as CNO, ADM Richardson recommended Simon Sinek’s book Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action to his Flag Officer and Senior Executive Service (SES) wardroom. The book explains that everyone - organizations, companies, groups, and individuals - functions on three levels: 1. What we do 2. How we do it, and 3. Why we do it.

The WHY should be the core of these levels. It is what drives you – your purpose, cause or belief. WHY? I learned a bit about the WHYs of The WHY should be the core of these our civilian workforce in a pilot program I levels. It is what drives you – your purpose, conducted earlier this year. cause or belief. If we have a clear focus and commitment to a purpose, what we do and Pilot Program: Executive Time with the how we do it becomes more effective and Executive Director meaningful. This concept is powerful and has In this program I conducted several potential to help us achieve great things, as discussion sessions with small groups of NECC Sinek explains in his introduction: civilians that I called “Executive Time with the Executive Director”. I plan to continue “When I first discovered this thing called this program and expand its participation the WHY, it came at a time in my life when I and discussion topics in the coming months. needed it. It wasn’t an academic or intellectual I really enjoyed these informal sessions that pursuit; I had fallen out of love with my work allowed me to get to know people and share a and found myself in a very dark place. … bit about myself. One of the discussion topics The discovery of WHY completely changed was “What is your Why?” my view of the world and discovering my own WHY restored my passion to a degree It was inspiring to hear how these multiple times greater than at any other time civilians are driven to make a difference by in my life.” (Sinek, Simon, Start with Why: doing their part for this great nation and for How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take the Navy’s Expeditionary Combat Force. At Action, New York, NY, Penguin Group, 2009, NECC, we do that by actively supporting each pg ix). other in our current roles, which ultimately ensures that our warfighters have everything A great example of an organizational they need to accomplish their missions - to WHY can be found in the NECC/NECCPAC ensure American security and prosperity, and Vision to produce Combat Effectiveness. keep our homeland safe. Each of us has a role in achieving that vision. But does your role as a member of the NECC/ One individual stated her WHY has never NECCPAC team align with your personal changed. She wants to make a difference by

helping people, and this translates to WHAT she does in different roles. As a mother, she makes a difference by helping her children grow into well-adjusted individuals. As an employee within the organization, she makes a difference by helping leadership, her coworkers, and others (military and civilians) get the things they need to be effective in their positions. As a senior executive my WHY keeps me grounded in what is truly important to me. I need to make a difference, be a part of something bigger than myself, and help others to succeed. Public service has always fulfilled me. While it can be exhilarating to sit at the Flag/SES “big table” and address the Navy’s challenges, it is more rewarding for me to be your voice and share the great things you are doing to make a difference.

to support our Expeditionary Combat Force! What is YOUR Why? Have you ever thought about what motivates you? What is your WHY? I would love to hear about it. You can share your WHY with me by posting to the NECC Senior Civilian Leadership Council page located on the portal. Simply post your WHY via the “What is your Why?” button found here: https://usff.portal.navy.mil/sites/NECC/ SitePages/SCLC1.aspx. The information you post will be anonymous unless you specifically share your name. I hope to hear from you!

Each member of our NECC/NECCPAC team is important to help achieve our Command Mission and Vision. Thank you for all you do

What is YOUR Why? Have you ever thought about what motivates you? What is your WHY? I would love to hear about it. You can share your WHY with me by posting to the NECC Senior Civilian Leadership Council page located on the portal. Simply post your WHY via the “What is your Why?” button found here: https://usff.portal.navy.mil/ sites/NECC/SitePages/SCLC1.aspx. The information you post will be anonymous unless you specifically share your name. I hope to hear from you!

MEET

The

p syc h

Hello fellow Navy Expeditionary

Combat Command service members and families. I would like to take a quick moment to introduce myself. My name is Cmdr. Robert Hines and I reported aboard NECC in July 2016 as Force Psychologist. I have served on active duty for 16 years and have completed assignments with Naval Special Warfare Group TWO, USS George HW Bush (CVN 77), USS Enterprise (CVN 65), and Naval Medical Center Portsmouth. I am honored to be the program manager for NECC’s embedded mental health program. NECC has eleven embedded mental health providers stationed between four different locations: Virginia Beach, Gulfport, San Diego, and Port Hueneme. In the near future we will also be adding another eleven providers to be divided up at various locations worldwide. NECC leadership has done a tremendous job of recognizing the benefit and importance of having an embedded mental health program that is focused solely on our force. I look forward to expanding our program and services in order to help support the emotional resiliency and health of NECC. Additionally, I would like to take a moment to highlight that September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. Although September is nationally recognized as the designated month to discuss these issues, we all know that Suicide Prevention Awareness is a year-round evolution. With this in mind, I would like to share, “Seven Everyday Ways to Promote Suicide Prevention Awareness” (as originally posted in Navy Live, September 2012): 1. YOU MAKE A DIFFERENCE—PASS IT ON! Small seeds of hope or a sense of purpose and belonging can grow to form the threads that sustain us through tough times. Let three people in your life (family, friends, shipmates, coworkers) know that they make a difference to you. Be specific about how and why you appreciate who they are and what they do to make a difference in your life. Ask that they pass it on by honoring three people in their lives this way.

2. RUN A FIRE DRILL! While most of us don’t expect to be in a fire, we go through drills for emergency preparedness. If we ever need it, we know the escape routes, even if they are hard to see because of smoke or darkness. Consider what you would do in times of personal crisis, or in assisting someone else, and run a drill to practice your plan. Saying “I am so upset, I am thinking of hurting myself,” or asking “Are you feeling overwhelmed and unable to navigate through your stress?” may feel awkward during a practice drill. However, this practice helps ensure that you can respond quickly and efficiently during a real crisis. Know when to speak up. And know when to ACT! FOR COMMANDS: Update and test your crisis response plan. Have someone call the duty office and have the duty section practice going through their plan to talk, gather information and access

but members of our personal communities as well. There are many

for generations. However, there are several resources that can help provide

organizations with outreach opportunities in your own community, with

hope for survivors. If you are grieving a loss (or did not allow yourself to

ideas and links to local activities. Stay engaged through various state,

grieve an earlier loss to suicide), take time to sort things out to facilitate the

community and youth-specific activities.

healing process. It’s never too late to heal. There are many books, DVDs

American Association of Suicidology: www.suicidology.org

and resources for working through grief. Your local chaplain or Fleet and

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: www.afsp.org

Family Support Center can assist and make recommendations.

Suicide Prevention Resource Counsel: www.sprc.org

FOR SURVIVORS OF ANY MILITARY CASUALTY: The Tragedy

5. ENGAGE IN FELLOWSHIP, MEDITATION OR PRAYER

Assistance Program for Survivors or TAPS is the 24/7 tragedy assistance

While honoring your beliefs, work with your local chaplain, faith group

resource for ANYONE who has suffered the loss of a military loved one,

or friends to hold a breakfast or lunch discussing suicide awareness

regardless of the relationship to the deceased or the circumstance of the

(warning signs, risk and protective factors). Set aside time for meditation

death: www.taps.org or 800-959-TAPS.

or prayer on behalf of those struggling with a personal crisis that may

7. SHARE YOUR STORY

not feel as though they have the ability or desire to navigate through

You are not alone. If you have overcome a personal crisis, we invite

those challenges. Or, hold a prayer vigil having groups of people agree to

you to email us your story so that you can help provide hope to others.

congregate during a specific time.

Identities will remain confidential and stories may be selected for

6. GOOD GRIEF

inclusion within Suicide Prevention Program publications. Please share

Surveys show that upwards of half of our personnel knew someone

your experiences at suicideprevention@navy.mil.

personally who died by suicide. The pain caused by suicide loss doesn’t heal Thanks for all that you do for our country and our force. quickly—some studies estimate that the effects of suicide on a family last

CDR Robert Hines

support. Practice your plan to assist someone onboard who is at

A word from

acute risk. Check your safety considerations. Update the recall roster. The Commanding Officer’s Tool Kit for Suicide Prevention is a useful resource for tailoring strategies specific to your command’s needs. Front Line Supervisor Training is also available for deckplate

Fa mily

leaders. This suicide prevention course is a unique opportunity to discuss and role-play some realistic scenarios while practicing your communication and intervention skills. For emergency responders or medical commands, run a drill to practice your protocols for suicide risk, response and de-escalation.

Very Respectfully,

On September 14, we celebrated Ombudsman Appreciation day to give

r ea di n ess issues and needs of Navy families. In Z-gram 24, Zumwalt adapted

thanks to our ombudsman, who work tirelessly to improve the readiness

his program from a 19th century Scandinavian custom originally

3. DO A SELF-ASSESSMENT

of our expeditionary commands and the lives of our Sailors and their

established by the king to give ordinary private citizens an avenue

Stress affects us all and health problems like sleep difficulties,

families. With a balance between family life and their own careers,

to express their concerns to government officials.

depression and anxiety are extremely common. Did you know that 1

these committed volunteers donate their time and energy as a vital

With the increasing demands on families, our ombudsmen

in 5 people will experience at least one episode of major depression

communication link between the commands and command’s families. As are needed more than ever. Our Ombudsmen are helping our

in their lifetime? Wear and tear or illness can creep up on us slowly—

the Ombudsman is appointed by and works under the guidance of the

families navigate the uniqueness of military life along with

we don’t feel normal, but don’t understand that anything is wrong

commanding officer, they keep their commanding officer informed on a

promoting resilience and self-reliance. They are an information

until it really takes a toll. Take a moment to check-up on yourself

wide array of issues from local resources to disaster preparedness. They

and referral resource, deployment support activities advocate, a

or your Command. If you can recognize a concern early, there are

establish and maintain an up-to-date and timely telephone tree/email to

welcoming committee member to new Sailors and families to the

many resources available to address this distress before it negatively

rapidly distribute and gather information during times of concerns, crisis

command, and a command representative on the committees and

impacts work performance, morale, relationships and/or health.

or issues.

groups concerned with the services and support of the families.

4. CONNECT WITH THE COMMUNITY

The Navy Ombudsman Program was established 46 years ago by Chief of

The readiness of our commands and our Sailors is a testament to

Suicide affects every state, community and demographic group.

Naval Operations, Adm. Elmo Zumwalt in response to his concern for the the great success of our ombudsmen.

In the Navy, suicide prevention is an all hands evolution, all of the time. This includes not only our shipmates and deckplate leaders,

N E C C OVERVIEW

NECC, JEBLC-FS Commands Welcome its Newest Chief Petty Officers

Navy Chaplain Marks 30 Years of Riding Motorcycles, Offers Safety Tips

By NECC Public Affairs

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. – One by one, 29 Sailors stepped forward, received their combination cover and pins with the iconic golden anchors signifying their transition to the Navy chief ranks during a pinning ceremony on board Joint Expeditionary Base Little CreekFort Story (JEBLC-FS), Sept. 16.

By Lt. Cmdr. Jennifer Cragg, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command Public Affairs

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. – For more than 30 years, nearly as long as he has served in the U.S. Navy, Capt. Bruce Boyle of Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC)/NECC Pacific has been riding motorcycles, all types from dirt bikes to Harleys. 160825-N-XJ788-010 NORFOLK, Va. (Aug. 25, 2016) Capt. Bruce Boyle, chaplain, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command, poses on his motorcycle. Boyle has been an avid motorcyclist for 30 years. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Travis DiPerna/ Released)

Whether riding a bike from home to his current command or riding across the country, Boyle has collected many lessons learned both on and off the road along the way. “Riding a motorcycle is one of the greatest experiences on earth but always ride within your skill level and situational limits,” said Boyle, who said some of the best advice he has received for driving safely on the roads is from the Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s Basic and Advanced Rider courses. While Boyle cautions drivers to be on the lookout for motorcyclists he adds that everyone who drives on roadways should always, “take an extra moment to look for motorcycles in changing lanes and turning at intersections.”

NECC is an enduring warfighting force providing sea-to-shore and inland operating environment capabilities across the full range of military operations that is focused on delivering combat effective expeditionary forces ready for worldwide operations now and into the future.

160816-N-VV353-030 NAVAL STATION ROTA, Spain (Aug. 16, 2016) Seabees, assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 11, remove NMCB 133’s insignia to reveal the oncoming battalion’s marker during a transfer of authority ceremony, Aug. 16, 2016. NMCB 11 assumed charge of the Seabee’s Europe and Africa Naval Construction Force missions from NMCB 133. (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman M. Jang/Released)

The iconic combination cover and golden anchors signify an induction to a community steeped in tradition. Guest speaker Rear Adm. Brian Brakke, commander, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command/NECC Pacific discussed the fountain of wisdom chiefs offer to our Navy and praised the mess for maintaining our naval traditions for the past 123 years.

For more information on motorcycle safety visit https:// www.msf-usa.org/. “Chiefs are the fountain of wisdom and the CPO mess provides an endless pool of information,” said Brakke, To enroll in the Navy motorcycle Safety Riders course visit: who called the rank of chief as the most respected rank in our Navy. “Today, when you don your anchors your entire https://www.navymotorcyclerider.com. life will change.” As fellow Sailors, friends, and family members witnessed the event, faces of participants reflected emotions that ranged from proud and somber to ecstatic grins as they witnessed and celebrate this milestone event.

To avoid collisions or near mishaps Boyle has used the Search-Evaluate-Execute or (SEE) method.

Capt. Daniel Senesky, Commander, JEBLC-FS spoke at the pinning ceremony and highlighted the significance of the ceremony.

“By using ‘SEE’ it helps me to assess and respond to road hazards before I have to react to an emergency and I give myself space and time to search for traps and escape paths,” said Boyle, who currently owns a 2006 Harley Davidson Ultra Classic and a 1999 Dyna Wide Glide.

“We are here today to bear witness to the most significant transition of their naval careers,” said Senesky. “Six weeks ago, these Sailors were deemed ready by the U.S. Navy; today, these 29 Sailors are proven ready to accept this leadership challenge.”

Senesky praised family members for witnessing the right of passage each chief passed through to receive both their anchors and combination cover. “Family members and friends attending today’s ceremony make it so special,” said Senesky. JEBLC-FS Command Master Chief Brian Schlicht also thanked the families for their support, but recognized the countless hours spent developing the new crop of chief petty officers. “Thanks to the countless master chiefs, senior chiefs, and chiefs who came together to make this year’s chief petty officers,” said Schlicht. For more news from Navy Expeditionary Combat Command, visit http://www.navy.mil/local/necc/.

Sailors, Veterans, and Citizens of Natchez Remember 9/11

Two MK VI Patrol Boats Arrive In Pacific

By Lt. Cmdr. Jennifer Cragg, Commander, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command Public Affairs

NATCHEZ, Miss. -- Sailors, veterans, and Natchez city leaders conducted a solemn ceremony at Natchez National Cemetery to commemorate the 15th anniversary of 9/11.

AGUANA, Guam -Commander, Task Force (CTF) 75 took permanent ownership of two MK VI patrol boats at Naval Base Guam, Aug. 24.

160911-N-AX638-124 NATCHEZ, Miss. (Sept. 11, 2016) Construction Mechanic 3rd Class Roger Jones (left), assigned to Navy Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 1, folds an ensign during a 9/11

160912-N-AX638-045 NATCHEZ, Miss. (Sept. 12, 2016) Navy Diver 2nd Class David Martinez, attached to Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) 3, plays tic-tac-toe with students from Concor-

Remembrance Ceremony at Natchez National Cemetery as a part of Navy Week Natchez. Navy Week Natchez, part of Natchez 300, the city’s year-long celebration of its 300th anniversary, will help to show-

dia Parish Academy at the Natchez Visitor Reception Center during Navy Week Natchez. Navy Week Natchez, part of Natchez 300, the city’s year-long celebration of its 300th anniversary, will help to showcase

case America’s sea service and give American citizens a greater understanding of the U.S. Navy and its capabilities. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Tyler Preston/Released)

America’s sea service and give American citizens a greater understanding of the U.S. Navy and its capabilities. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Tyler Preston/Released)

Natchez National Cemetery, which overlooks the Mississippi River, was established in 1866 and has more than 8,000 internments to include a Medal of Honor recipient, Landsman Wilson Brown, who served on board Adm. David Farragut’s Flagship, USS Hartford. The ceremony at the national cemetery was held to reflect and remember the nearly 3,000 lives lost during the nation’s worst terrorist attack on American soil. Retired Army Maj. Sonjagela Johnson, Natchez Adams County Veteran Services Officer, helped coordinate the ceremony and reflected on how it brought back many memories of her service and of those she lost. “Today’s ceremony brings back a lot of memories, for me,” said Johnson. “Freedom is not free.” Travis Patten, sheriff of Adams County in Natchez, who left the Navy in 2000 after serving three years on active duty reflected on the importance of remembering the first responders, police officers and firefighters who gave their lives to save so many others. “For us 9/11 was the most tragic event of our generation, and to have my brother and sisters honored during this ceremony is remarkable,” said Patten, who was elected sheriff of Natchez on Jan. 4, 2016. Patten credits his time spent in the Navy to prepare him for a career in law enforcement. “The Navy gave me a sense of responsibility and gave me everything I needed to become the sheriff of Natchez,” said Patten.

The MK VI patrol boats are now permanently Rodney Violette, who served in the U.S. Army assigned in two separate strategic areas of operations. In during the Vietnam War, and now serves as the commander March, two MK VI patrol boats were delivered to CTFof the Mississippi-Louisiana Veterans Coalition Honor 56, based in Bahrain. Guard participated in the ceremony. The newest generation of patrol boat, the MK VI “Our Honor Guard’s motto is honor, dignity, respect is a 85-foot combatant craft and provides a persistent and sacrifice,” said Violette. “All of our members have honor, capability to patrol shallow littoral areas for the purpose every one has respect and provides dignity to the families of force protection of U.S. and coalition forces, as well who have sacrificed.” as safeguarding critical infrastructure. Construction Mechanic 3rd Class Roger Jones, assigned to Navy Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 1, and Violette, folded an ensign during the ceremony and presented it to Natchez Mayor Darryl Grennell.

“Innovative assets like the MK VI allow us to maintain maritime superiority and help strengthen and enable our partners within the Indo-Asia-Pacific region,” said Capt. Erich Diehl, commodore, CTF75. “We are excited to receive and employ the MK VI Grennell provided brief remarks during the throughout our area of operations.” ceremony emphasizing the shared impact of 9/11. The MK VI patrol boat offers the Coastal Riverine “Today is a very important day, and never shall we Forces a variety of mission sets, from waterborne to forget what happened 15 years ago,” said Grennell. mine countermeasures to theater security cooperation, enabling operators to provide their critical security A candle lighting ceremony was held to honor the “know-how” and force protection worldwide. The U.S. tower of light in New York City. More than 80 Sailors and U.S. Navy will utilize the MK VI patrol boats and their crews Navy civilians will participate in Natchez Navy Week, Sept. in a variety of Pacific Fleet exercises and operations. 11-14. While in Natchez, members of Navy Expeditionary Combat Command, Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Navy Expeditionary Combat Command’s Cmdr. Command, and the Navy Band Southeast will showcase Raul Gandara emphasized the enhanced capabilities of America’s sea service and give American citizens a greater the Navy’s newest and next generation patrol boats. understanding of the U.S. Navy and its capabilities. “The unique design of the patrol boats is its For more news from Navy Expeditionary Combat configurability, which will provide the opportunity for installation of future systems directly supporting the Command, visit www.navy.mil/local/necc/. operational commander,” said Gandara.

The MK VI patrol boats are globally transportable and can operate from amphibious ship well decks to forward locations, while partnering with allied navies at a new and more effective level. Additionally, the MK VI patrol boats will provide enhanced capabilities such as superior speed, range and maneuverability. The patrol boats can reach speeds in excess of 35 knots and have a range of more than 600 nautical miles. The Coastal Riverine Force (CORIVFOR) operates in harbors, rivers, bays, across the littorals, and ashore. The primary mission of CORIVFOR is to conduct maritime security operations across all phases of military operations by defending high-value assets, critical maritime infrastructure, ports and harbors, both inland and on coastal waterways, against enemies, and, when commanded, to conduct offensive combat operations. CORIVFOR is a component of Navy Expeditionary Combat Command and provides flexible responsive maritime security forces capable of performing high-level security. For more information, visit http://www.navy. mil/, http://www.facebook.com/usnavy/, or http://www. twitter.com/usnavy/. For more news from Navy Expeditionary Combat Command, visit http://www.navy.mil/local/necc/.

news you can use

NEws you can use

Suicide prevention seeking help is a sign of strength Fleet and Family Support Center to offer Veteran’s Disability Benefits Workshop Fleet and Family Support Centers in conjunction with the Virginia Department of Veteran’s Services, offers a Veteran’s Disability Benefits Review Workshop. Participants will learn how to review service medical records; identify medical conditions that may lead to a compensable disability rating with the Veteran’s services; request vocational rehabilitation benefits and training; and complete their application for submission. Service Members should be within 60 days to six months of retirement or separation date to file a claim in this workshop. Spouses are highly encouraged to attend. Participants will need to bring copies of the following 1. Medical record. 2. Marriage certificate. 3. Children’s birth certificates and/or adoption papers. 4. Dependent’s social security numbers. 5. Divorce decree and/or death certificate for previous marriages of service member or spouse, if applicable. 6. Bank account and routing numbers. Register at the FFSC website at www.cnic.navy.mil/ NavyLifeMA. For additional information, contact the appropriate FFSC locations. Seabee Online announces Seabee Mobile App Seabee Online, named “Best Digital Publication” in the Department of Defense, is also available on your mobile device. Seabee Mobile provides dynamic coverage of Seabee contributions to global security, maritime strategy and humanitarian efforts around the world, and is your one-stop resource for all things Seabee – from deployments and social media, to downloadable study resources and interactive quizzes to help you ace your next advancement exam. With Seabee Mobile 3.1, you can even record a memo to help you recall important information as you are studying!

The Seabee Mobile app includes six categories: 1. Homeport News showcases timely and relevant stories at home, such as humanitarian efforts, training exercises and change of commands. 2. OCONUS News keeps you up to date on deployed Seabee battalions around the world. 3. Study Resources links you to the latest BIBs and BMR Resources, downloadable to your mobile device, as well as interactive quizzes. 4. BEECAM captures iconic snapshots of Seabees in action.

5. Heritage highlights personal Seabee profiles and “This Week in Seabee History”. 6. Reunions provides a listing of upcoming veterans events throughout the year. Users can also, find stories by unit: NCG, NCR, NMCB, ACB, CBMU or UCT. From the menu page at the bottom, select any unit logo to read the latest articles. Swipe left to see the next article in the category. At any time, select the top right button to share the article link via email, text message, Facebook, Twitter or any share application available on your mobile device. What’s New in Version 3.1 of the mobile app? 1. 700 new training quiz questions provided by the Center for Seabees and Facilities Engineering. 2. New ACB 1 and ACB 2 unit categories added. 3. Updated rate-specific BIBs available for download to your mobile device. 4. Renamed categories to more easily find relevant stories. 5. Refined UI design for clean look and feel. 6. Voice recorder memo function to take notes as you study. NECC Pacific Holds Professional Development Staff Training By Lt. Cmdr. John Timothy, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command Pacific Honolulu, Hawaii -- The active-duty and civilian employees of Navy Expeditionary Combat Command Pacific conducted a two-day learning event at NECCPAC headquarters in Pearl Harbor, Aug. 18-19. The NECC PAC team hosted Dr. Derrick Lewis Noble of Fred Pryor Seminars, provided six hours of instruction to 43 members of the NECC PAC in areas of leadership, team-building and other modern coaching techniques. This professional development course was built with an emphasis on the unique strategic mission of NECC PAC and was facilitated in three-hour sessions allowing the team to continue taking care of business and the needs of its customers. Collectively, the two-day training received very positive reviews with employee comments indicating they had gained insight as a leader while obtaining new tools to maximize team performance and hold personnel accountable. This renewed focus and energy will allow NECC PAC to enhance teamwork throughout the command and ultimately improve the organizational culture. As TYCOM for the Navy’s Expeditionary forces, NECC PAC’s primary strategic mission is providing oversight to man, train and equip over 20,000 Expeditionary Sailors and support the fleet commander within the Pacific AO.

Suicide Prevention: Knowing When to Seek Help is a Sign of Strength By Yan Kennon, Naval Hospital Jacksonville Public Affairs

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide was the 10th leading cause of death for all ages in the U.S. in 2013 -- a rate of about 113 deaths each day. Building resilience and preventing suicide requires all members of the Navy and Marine Corps community to work together. Suicide prevention is about being there for every Sailor, Marine, and family member, every day. “People are our greatest asset,” said Dr. Kirsten Pollick, Naval Hospital (NH) Jacksonville’s Mental Health Clinic department head and neuropsychologist. “Our goal is to reduce the risk factors for suicide and strengthen the factors that promote resilience.” Suicide can be a complex behavioral response influenced by a multitude of factors within one’s personal life experience. These potentially include individual, relational, community, or societal circumstances; or any combination thereof. Specific risk factors and stressors associated with suicidality have been linked to illness, isolation, family and marital discord, financial issues, depressive disorders or other mental health concerns -- including prior suicidal ideation or attempts -- impulsive behaviors, lack of sleep, or changes in brain chemicals due to alcohol or drug abuse. Warning signs include thoughts or comments about suicide, substance abuse, purposelessness, anxiety, feeling trapped or hopeless, withdrawal, anger, recklessness, and mood changes. Effective treatments and interventions are available for depression, situational stressors, and other health problems that are risk factors for suicide. Understanding warning signs and risk factors can help prevent, identify, and enable early intervention to save lives.

Tips to help Sailors and Marines stay mission-ready include: Find time for oneself -- Improve sleep habits, try yoga or meditation, participate in enjoyable activities. Break down obstacles -- Break challenges down into small steps and tackle one at a time. Improve physical conditioning -- Regular physical training strengthens the muscles and the mind.

Avoid alcohol and substance misuse -- In order to manage stress, sleep, relationships, and responsibilities. Identify people to turn to when in need -- Identify a friend, family member, chaplain, or health care professional to speak with. For free, confidential support 24/7, call the Military Crisis Line at 800-273-TALK (8255), text message to 838255, or chat online at http://www.veteranscrisisline.net/. The Crisis Line is available to current and former service members, their families, and friends. Active-duty personnel can schedule an appointment with their primary care manager (PCM) at 904-546-7094. The PCM can make a referral to mental health. For urgent needs, the Mental Health Clinic is available for walk-ins. Call the Mental Health Clinic at 904-546-6351 for more information. The Deployment Health Center (904-546-7099) also offers pre- and post-deployment physical and mental health services. Family members, retirees, and retiree families can call TRICARE Value Options at 800-700-8646 for mental health care. In addition, the hospital’s family medicine clinic has mental health specialists on-site. For someone in immediate danger, go to the nearest emergency room or call 911. Remember to ACT (Ask, Care, Treat). ASK if someone is depressed and if they are thinking about suicide. Let them know you CARE. Get them assistance (TREATment) as soon as possible.

Every life lost to suicide is one too many.

Marking its 75th year, NH Jacksonville’s priority since its founding in 1941 is to heal the nation’s heroes and their families. The command is comprised of the Navy’s third largest hospital and five branch health clinics across Florida and Georgia. Of its patient population -- 163,000 active and retired Sailors, Soldiers, Marines, Airmen, guardsmen, and their families -- about 85,000 are enrolled with a primary care manager and Medical Home Port team at one of its facilities. For more information, visit http://www.navy.mil, http:// www.facebook.com/usnavy, or http://www.twitter.com/usnavy. For more news from Naval Hospital Jacksonville, visit http:// www.navy.mil/local/nhjax/.

around the fleet

13th MCPON Retires, 14th Takes Charge CNO to Host World’s Largest Maritime Conference

He concluded, “Tonight I will remove my uniform for the last time and will not wear it again until my eternal rest--but I do this with a smile on my face, knowing that I will always be a Sailor that served in the greatest Navy in the world.”

From Chief of Naval Operations Public Affairs

NEWPORT, R.I. -- Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. John Richardson will host the 22nd International Seapower Symposium (ISS-22) Sept. 2123 at the U.S. Naval War College (NWC) in Newport, Rhode Island.

After Stevens spoke, he and Giordano conducted the ceremonial ‘Passing of the Cutlass,’ symbolizing the change of office, and Giordano assuming the title of the 14th MCPON.

Senior representatives from more than 110 countries, including many of their senior-most navy and coast guard officers, are expected to attend this biennial event. “The world has become globalized to an unprecedented degree. Maritime traffic fuels the global economy; both cooperation and competition are growing at record pace,” said Richardson. “Amidst this record pace of change, ISS with its theme of “Stronger Maritime Partners” aims to deepen relationships with our network of international Navies and Coast Guards.” “Contributions from all Navies - blue water Navies, regional security exporters, choke point guardians and coastal Navies- are needed for maritime security. More than 80 Chiefs of Navy and 15 Chiefs of Coast Guard will gather to discuss the continued protection of open and free sea lanes,” said CNO. First held in 1969, ISS has become the largest gathering of maritime leaders in history. The symposium provides a forum for senior international leaders to create and solidify solutions to shared challenges and threats in ways that are in the interests of individual nations. Richardson and Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus will kick off the event with opening remarks on Sept. 21 in NWC’s Spruance Auditorium. Deputy Secretary of Defense Robert Work and Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Paul Zunkunft will also address the symposium during the week. ISS is the world’s capstone seapower conference, bringing together navy leaders from around the world to exchange ideas and broaden our international

150728-N-CS971-116 NEWPORT, R.I. (July 30, 2015) U.S. Naval War College’s (NWC) Luce Hall located at Naval Station Newport in Newport, Rhode Island. Named after NWC’s first president, Rear Adm. Stephen B. Luce, Luce Hall was built in 1892 and is a national historic landmark. Luce founded NWC’s study of strategy, tactics, and operations based on a core of history. His lectures, readings, and seminars transformed from a month-long course to an intensive one-year professional naval study. Luce Hall now houses NWC’s Naval Command College and College of International Programs. (U.S. Navy photo by Haley Nace/Released)

partnerships. Representatives from participating countries are providing briefings, participating in panel discussions, and contributing to seminar sessions addressing regional and global maritime issues. The symposium’s breakout sessions are organized by region to encourage attendees to develop practical initiatives that will be pursued over the next two years. For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www. facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter.com/usnavy. For more news from Chief of Naval Operations, visit www.navy.mil/local/cno/.

160902-N-OT964-395 WASHINGTON (Sept. 2, 2016) Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) Steven Giordano delivers remarks during MCPON Stevens’ Change of Office & Retirement Ceremony held at Adm. Leutze Park on Washington Navy Yard. Stevens served as the 13th MCPON for four years, and turned over responsibility to Giordano as the 14th MCPON. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Martin L. Carey/Released)

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Martin L. Carey, Office of the MCPON

WASHINGTON -- Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) Michael D. Stevens was relieved by Fleet Master Chief Steven S. Giordano during his retirement and change of office ceremony held on Washington Navy Yard Sept. 2. Stevens served as the 13th MCPON for the past four years and served over 33 years on active duty. “I will forever be humbled by the opportunity I was given to serve in the United States Navy and be trusted to lead and advocate for America’s greatest treasure -- those that wear the cloth of our nation and have sworn an oath to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies foreign and domestic,” Stevens said during his speech. He continued, speaking about his service as the 13th MCPON. “I’ve often been asked ‘What was your number one goal as the MCPON?’ My answer has never changed - ‘As a leader, it has always been my primary goal to establish and maintain the conditions that provide all of our people with the opportunity to be successful. And to do this while treating one another with dignity and respect,’” said Stevens.

Giordano then delivered remarks saying, “Admiral, I am honored to have been afforded this opportunity and it is one I do not take lightly.” He continued, “Now with one foot anchored smartly on the history and heritage of our service, and one foot stepping forward into the future, I look forward to serving this great Navy of ours as the 14th master chief petty officer of the Navy with all the reverence, respect and action incumbent on the office.” Following the ceremony a small reception was held where friends, loved ones and shipmates bid MCPON Mike and Theresa Stevens farewell and welcomed MCPON Steven and Elka Giordano. For more news from master chief petty officer of the Navy, visit www.navy.mil/local/mcpon/.

@NECC