DON'T MISS: BACK-TO-BACK GOLDEN ANCHORS FOR NNSY
SERVICE TO THE FLEET Norfolk Naval Shipyard
We Are America's Shipyard
May 2017
HAMMER TIME PLUS: CNO & MCPON VISIT NNSY • PAGE 10
ALSO INSIDE: EYE ON INNOVATION & SHIPYARD LEGACIES
Table of Contents
IN THIS ISSUE Features: 4 FROM THE COMMANDER
10
The competitive advantage of NNSY
5 RETENTION AWARD
Back-to-back golden anchors for America's Shipyard
10 BIG ROCKS & VIP VISIT
CNO and MCPON tour NNSY
12 EYE ON INNOVATION
3-D printed tool brings cost-saving solution to rigging department
13 AHEAD OF SCHEDULE
Albany team completes mission essential work three weeks early
14 SHIPYARD SPOTLIGHT Gate Guard Morris Brown
16 SHIPYARD LEGACIES
The Westfalls: Four decades of influence at NNSY
18 OUT AND ABOUT
13
Exploring Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge in Virginia Beach
20 ARE YOU READY?
NFAAS, hurricanes, storms, evacuations and general preparedness
22 RED CROSS TRAINING
NNSY gets shelter training to house riders of the storm
23 FLTHRO
Three common misconceptions
22
14
VOLUME 80 • NUMBER 3
Service to the Fleet
SHIPYARD COMMANDER Capt. Scott Brown DEPUTY COMMANDER Capt. Daniel Rossler COMMAND MASTER CHIEF CMDCM (AW/SW) Michael Reese PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICER Terri Davis
Celebrating Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month: Christina Toroc
EDITOR Anna Taylor PUBLIC AFFAIRS STAFF Michael Brayshaw, Kristi Britt, April Brown, Floyd Logan, Troy Miller, Curtis Steward, Jennifer Zingalie
Story and photo by Kristi Britt
EMAIL THE PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICE nfsh_nnsy_pao@navy.mil EMPLOYEE INFORMATION HOTLINE (757) 396-9551 FRAUD, WASTE & ABUSE HOTLINE (757) 396-7971 SHIPYARD RADIO ADVISORY 1630 AM SERVICE TO THE FLEET is a Department of Defense publication and is authorized for members of the DoD. Contents of Service to the Fleet are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense, or Norfolk Naval Shipyard. Service to the Fleet is published monthly. Submissions are due on the 10th of each month. The public affairs staff reserves the right to edit submissions for content and brevity. LIKE US ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/NorfolkNavalShipyard1 FOLLOW US ON TWITTER www.twitter.com/NNSYNews WATCH VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE www.youtube.com/NNSYBroadcast VISIT THE NNSY HISTORY BLOG www.nnsyhistorymatters.blogspot.com READ STTF ONLINE www.issuu.com/nnsy
Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month is an annual observance that runs throughout the month of May and celebrates the service and sacrifices of Asian/Pacific Islanders throughout the United States. At Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY), our shipyard team celebrates the culture and heritage of our Asian American Pacific Islanders families and friends and salutes you for your efforts. As a child, Christina Toroc saw the efforts of the United States Navy through her father, a native of the Philippines who came to Virginia in the 1970s to join the Navy. Born at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, she witnessed a mixture of cultures as she grew up, her parents continuing to speak Tagalog with her so she could understand their language in addition to English, as well as introducing her to their Filipino dishes. She traveled to the Philippines with her family during her childhood and expresses interest in returning one day. Today Toroc is an engineer in the Nuclear Engineering and Planning Department (Code 2300) Temporary Services Branch (Code 2310.2). She has worked here for five-and-a-half years after graduating from Old Dominion University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Being a local resident, she
knew about NNSY but she had no idea the true size of the organization. “When I first came to the shipyard, I was amazed to find just how many opportunities are available,” said Toroc. “It’s a diverse culture of people who have become a family, working to benefit the United States Navy in repairing the ships of the fleet.” For Toroc, being part of America’s Shipyard means being involved in the Navy’s mission every day. “I get to see and experience different people and different cultures here in the shipyard and together we work for a common goal. It’s nice to feel part of something that is a piece of something greater. We are the workforce that ensures the Navy’s fleet is able to sail. I never knew I could be doing something like this before. It’s really special to me.” Toroc is proud of her culture and is happy to share it with those at NNSY. “Celebrating these different cultures that make us this amazing shipyard family is important to me and I’m working with the Diversity and Inclusion Group and Valerie Fulwood to ensure we move in the right direction,” she said. “Our shipyard is a great place filled with opportunities to be involved and to innovate. I hope everyone can see just how wonderful it is to work here at America’s Shipyard.” MAY 2017 • SERVICE TO THE FLEET • 3
From the Commander:
The Competitive Advantage of NNSY
Each day in America’s Shipyard brings opportunities, challenges and successes. I’ve promised you we will take advantage of the opportunities, overcome the challenges, and celebrate our successes.
4 • SERVICE TO THE FLEET • MAY 2017
Our competitive advantage against the world’s militaries starts here. The highest levels of national and naval leadership are depending on us. 250 years into the life of our organization, we’re still setting records in conducting ship maintenance and modernization. Those were just a few of the points shared by Chief of Naval Operations Adm. John M. Richardson during his visit to Norfolk Naval Shipyard April 13. It’s a rare and remarkable opportunity to show CNO all the great things happening on our waterfront. He then took the time to hear your questions, address your concerns, and assure you that he values the vital work you perform every day at America’s Shipyard. I appreciate everyone who made the effort to attend the CNO’s All-Hands call in Bldg. 163 and break a Big Rock commending Command University and the inaugural graduates of our High Velocity First Level Supervisor course. In the midst of the daily effort of adhering to budgets and working under deadlines in our mission, we need occasional events like a CNO visit and/or a Big Rock breaking to recognize our organization’s wins. The CNO commended us for recently setting a record refueling time on USS Rhode Island (SSBN 740), a crucial vehicle in our national nuclear deterrence strategy. He called our new High Velocity First Line Supervisor Training a “fantastic idea” as it’s one supporting one of his biggest priorities: to apply the best concepts, techniques and technologies to accelerate learning as individuals, teams, and organizations. In our heavy industrial environment, he pointed out all our safety metrics are trending in the right direction. He attested to some of the things I hear about from shop directors and see in our monthly Safety Flag commendations with saying, “you're taking care of one another and watching each other's backs.” As I shared at the Big Rock ceremony, we have had some safety concerns in the past couple months. While our safety posture throughout NNSY has steadily improved, we
want to immediately address problems as soon as they reveal themselves. Notably, many of our recent safety mishaps aren’t occurring on the job; they are happening due to inattention during transit around the installation. Please pay attention to where you are walking and refrain from texting while you are moving about the shipyard. As for staying mindful on the job, I just want you to ask yourself one simple question before starting your work: “what could hurt me today?” I’d like to congratulate the USS Albany (SSN 753) project team and the entire shipyard for undocking the boat last month. Great effort from everyone involved in this key project milestone! I know this has been a resource-challenged availability at times, but everyone who has supported it has lived up to the project team motto of being “All in!” I look forward to having the project team up on stage as we break the Albany Big Rock during our next All-Hands ceremony. Now, up next is Rhode Island for a timely undocking in July. Each day in America’s Shipyard brings opportunities, challenges and successes. I’ve promised you we will take advantage of the opportunities, overcome the challenges, and celebrate our successes. We are showing the highest levels of national and naval leadership that we are supporting the Navy’s core attributes and lines of effort, as well as NAVSEA’s mission priority of on-time delivery of ships and submarines. Our pride and craftsmanship in our work sails on those very vessels. And that’s because our competitive advantage over the world’s militaries starts here...with you. We are Norfolk Naval Shipyard. We are America’s Shipyard!
Capt. Scott Brown Norfolk Naval Shipyard’s 107th Commander
BACK-TO-BACK GOLDEN ANCHORS FOR NNSY
BY ANNA TAYLOR • PUBLIC AFFAIRS SPECIALIST PHOTO BY LUKE BEASLEY • NNSY PHOTOGRAPHER For two years in a row, Norfolk Naval Shipyard has received the Retention Excellence Award, previously known as the Golden Anchor Award. The annual Retention Excellence Award recognizes superior command accomplishment in executing programs and policies that best enable Sailors to succeed in their Navy careers and directly supports the concept of Brilliant on the Basics. “In order to receive the retention excellence award, we had to meet all the requirements,” said Petty Officer 1st Class Michelle Bolden, the shipyard’s Navy counselor and manager of the shipyard’s Career Development Program. “Our Command Information Program was inspected, and we had to receive a 90 or above. We received a 98. We met all retention and attrition benchmarks; we had
very low attrition and high retention.” The Career Development Program is multifaceted, and Bolden’s area of responsibility includes overseeing career development boards, the shipyard’s family care plan, and the Exceptional Family Member and Educational Service Office programs. All commands have the opportunity to win the retention award, but not all commands are able to satisfy the criteria to be eligible. “What it means is that we’re doing everything we need to do to take care of our Sailors,” said Bolden. “All of our programs were utilized most effectively so we were able to receive the award.” According to Smith, fleet readiness remains a top priority and effective execution of personnel programs and
policies are critical elements to retaining top quality Sailors. Standards of conduct, engaged and committed leadership, clear policies and support of Navy quality of life programs have a direct and positive impact on Sailor behavior and retention. The Navy’s career development and personnel programs contribute to retention of the best and brightest Sailors. "Receiving this award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of all hands, especially our career counselor team,” said Command Master Chief Michael Reese. “I am very proud of you all. Bravo Zulu Shipmates!" “It’s a great honor to win the award because not all commands meet the eligibility requirements and it takes a huge effort to take care of our Sailors,” added Bolden.
MAY 2017 • SERVICE TO THE FLEET • 5
From the Deckplate:
Another month of celebration at America's Shipyard
"The time continues to move and it seems we all would like it to slow down but we know that is not going to happen. We must maximize our time and ensure we are not missing out on any opportunities that come our way."
6 • SERVICE TO THE FLEET • MAY 2017
Can you believe it has been more than a month since spring began? The time continues to move and it seems we all would like it to slow down but we know that is not going to happen. We must maximize our time and ensure we are not missing out on any opportunities that come our way, just like Andrew Sprowle did 250 years ago when he decided to settle here on what is now Norfolk Naval Shipyard, America’s Shipyard! It was his choice that has made us what we are today. Life is full of choices, yet there seems to be one that will never let you down: choosing to be physically active. This choice is the only one that can lower your risk for chronic diseases, while strengthening your muscles and bones and even improving your mood. For substantial health benefits, adults should do at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity each week, according to the Department of Health and Human Services Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans. Getting 150 minutes of exercise a week might seem like a lot, but breaking it down into smaller intervals can help make it feel more manageable. The Callaghan Fitness Center is here to help keep America's Shipyard's Sailors and civilians healthy and in great shape! If you haven't paid them a visit, now is the perfect time! Let the island spirit lift you up during our next Fourth Friday Spirit Day May 26. Wear your favorite Hawaiian shirt to work on Aloha Friday in honor of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Since 1992, May has been designated to recognize the personal achievements and valuable contributions to the American story by Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. Generation after generation, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have forged a proud legacy that
reflects the spirit of our nation-a country that values the contributions of everyone who calls America home. Through times of hardship and, in the face of enduring prejudice, these women and men have persisted and forged ahead to help strengthen our Union. As we commemorate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we pay tribute to all those in the Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders who have strived for a brighter future for the next generation. Together, let us recommit to embracing the diversity that enriches our nation, and to ensuring all our people have an equal chance to succeed in the country we love. This month’s CMC Shout Out goes out to NNSY Command Ombudsman Kimberley Gosart! Kim volunteered to step up and fill the position as the NNSY Ombudsman. The Ombudsman is an official representative of the Commanding Officer and plays a vital role in establishing and maintaining current and accurate communication between the command and its family members. Welcome aboard Kim, Bravo Zulu! In closing, thank you to you all for what you do on a daily basis. During the recent CNO and MCPON visit, the MCPON stated that the shipyard looked amazing and commented on what a great team we have here! Keep up the great work America’s Shipyard! As always, it is an honor to be in the Navy and a great time to be a part of America’s Shipyard! – CMC Sends
Michael Reese Command Master Chief
Medical appointments have an effect on critical work
By Jennifer Zingalie • Public Affairs Specialist Photo by Shayne Hensley • NNSY Photographer Each month the shipyard schedules approximately 2,000 periodic examinations for more than 50 medical surveillance programs. These examinations involve medical procedures such as a physical, biological screenings, and medical history, and are used to assess possible illnesses or abnormalities. These programs qualify or disqualify a person from performing specific work on the waterfront. However, according to Jeff Cunningham, the Deputy Executive Director who oversees personnel issues, the shipyard has been seeing a high number of no-shows at Navy Medicines Branch Health Clinic (BHC) located on the shipyard. Currently, no-show rates are between 10 to 30 percent which translates to an average of approximately 300 people per month. No-shows are individuals who show up late to an appointment or not at all. While the shipyard's priority is on-time delivery of ships and submarines, the BHC’s priority is safe, quality care, access and accountability. “After June 5th we will begin implementing a new policy,” said Cunningham. “Any employee 15 minutes late to their appointment will not be able to be seen that day and will have to reschedule, which can only be done by the supervisor.” Empty appointment slots represent a potential loss of productivity each month which could cause the demand for health care to be underestimated. This ultimately would negatively affect resource allocation, said Lt. Glenn Campbell, BHC division officer. The impact does not stop at the BHC. “Appointments are scheduled two
months in advance,” said Cunningham. “This is to ensure worker safety and minimal impact to critical work on the waterfront.” For many employees, an employment physical begins before they begin work at the shipyard. Their information is then inputted into the BHC’s Medical Exam Scheduler (MES) and from that point employees will be scheduled for a periodic exam every year during their birth month. In order to help facilitate employees making their appointments, Executive Support Office (Code 1100) Administrative and Industrial Services Branch (Code 1102) provides a monthly notice to direct reports, said Karen Taporco, a Code 1102 supervisor. “We also send a daily no-show report and a weekly schedule to the Direct Reports and Resource Managers,” she said. Shipyard Supervisors are expected to check Supervisors’ Desk (SUPDESK), a leadership management and planning tool, on a daily basis where they will see which employees are scheduled for medical appointments each day. SUPDESK is a useful tool because it can also inform the medical scheduler if the employee will be on leave or on temporary orders which prevents appointments from being scheduled on those dates. “Supervisors should receive a phone call two days before an employee’s appointment and should in turn remind their employee,” said Taporco. “Employees will receive a postcard sent to their home two weeks in advance as well as an automated call from the BHC one week in advance of their appointment.”
If employees move, change their name or phone number, it is important for them to notify their supervisor immediately and the supervisor should in turn send the updated information to James Jones, the NNSY MES scheduler right away, explained Taporco. Because the shipyard conducts critical work, which requires people who perform that work to have up-to-date qualifications, managing resources, when it comes to planning, is very important, explained Cunningham. Appointments can be changed or cancelled if needed and if the BHC is contacted in enough time, they will then have the ability to schedule another employee for that time slot that would otherwise be left vacant. According to Taporco, ideally, if there is a conflict or a reason an appointment needs to be cancelled or rescheduled, the medical scheduling office must be notified by the supervisor two weeks before the appointment. “If however, last minute or emergent work does come up it is still important to notify the BHC right away; that no-show slot may still be preventable,” emphasized Campbell. Employees should also keep in mind, since March of 2017 medical appointments have been split into two parts. If part one of the exam has not been completed, part two will automatically be cancelled and the supervisor will need to reschedule the appointment with the BHC. “Generally, the employee should not be out of their workplace for more than an hour,” said Campbell. “If employees just show up at any and all times there is no accountability for the provider or the employee’s time, and no way to provide an estimated amount of time an employee will be away from their workspace.” Although a lot falls on the shoulders of the supervisors to ensure employees know about and make their appointments, the Administrative Services Division believes scheduling is really a team effort between the resource manager, supervisor and BHC. “It’s really about looking at the schedule, looking at where the people are, and communicating with the clinic,” said Cunningham. MAY 2017 • SERVICE TO THE FLEET • 7
Shipyard Insider: BUZZ & BYTES January 2017 Safety Flags! The shop had no Occupational Safety and Health injuries and no lost workday cases over the two-month period. Shipyard Commander Captain Scott Brown presented the award to shop personnel March 14 in Bldg. 163. Certificates of appreciation were presented to David Mora, Edward Burnette, William Dorsey, Jr., and Vera Holland for their efforts.
» FLTHRO EVENTS
SAAPM » POSITIVE YARDAGE Congratulations Congratulations to the Occupational Safety, Health, and Environmental Office's Gary Copenhaver, recognized by NNSY’s Naval Civilian Managers Association (NCMA) chapter as the Workforce Warrior for the first quarter of 2017! Copenhaver serves as OSHE Project Manager for USS Rhode Island (SSBN 740) and NRMD Kings Bay. His proactive approach to safety has resulted in Rhode Island having the lowest Total Case Incident Rate (TCIR) for any project currently at NNSY. His previous assignment was the USS Maryland (SSBN 738) Engineered Refueling Overhaul which achieved the lowest TCIR ever for a NNSY waterfront project. For his efforts, NCMA presented Copenhaver with a certificate of congratulations and a $100 cash award. Photo by Shayne Hensley, NNSY Photographer. Blood Drive Thank you to everyone who supported NNSY's Armed Services Blood Drive April 12. 8 • SERVICE TO THE FLEET • MAY 2017
NNSY Sailors and employees honored Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month throughout April with several events around the installation. "This month saw many events, discussions, and moments to heighten our awareness and reflect the high standards of behavior necessary to have each other's back and play to our strengths," said Brown. "Our Navy team needs all of us to build each other up to succeed in this increasingly competitive world." Brown also commended Shalise Bates-Pratt, the shipyard Sexual Assault Response Coordinator, for her efforts. "Her communication, compassion, and leadership are an inspiration, and she continues to make a difference for our command." The shipyard had a record drive with 85 registered volunteers and 69 donors. "This outstanding support and result will make a huge impact on our required missions for our deployed personnel and our hospital patients," said Armed Services Blood Drive Coordinator Ralph Peters. NNSY's next drive will be held June 14. All the blood
collected at the Armed Services Blood Drives goes to active duty military, their families, and retired military. For every pint collected, up to three lives can be saved. For faster service, you can make an appointment at www. militaryblood.dod.mil; however, walk-ins are welcome. By participating in the blood drive, you can even complete an activity in your VPP Passport-Item 36: “Be involved with community health. Participate in a blood or platelets drive.” Safety Flag Congratulations to NNSY’s Sheetmetal Shop (Shop 17), winner of Norfolk Naval Shipyard’s December 2016 and
Upcoming Training Writing a Position Description training will take place May 30 and Aug. 30 from 9 to 11 a.m. at FLTHRO in Bldg. 15, on the second floor in the Training Center, Room 223. This class is for supervisors and managers who have the responsibility of writing Position Descriptions. You must RSVP for this class by emailing Germaine Harris at germaine.harris@navy.mil or you may contact her at 3962100. In an effort to provide NNSY employees information and education on beneficial Human Resources topics, FLTHRO will host informal "Lunch and Learn" training sessions throughout 2017. Bring your lunch, we'll provide the education! All NNSY employees are welcome and encouraged to attend these informal sessions. FLTHRO has seating for 33 employees, and attendance is on a first-come, first-served basis. No reservation required. These events are 11:20 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Bldg. 15 on the second floor in room 223. (No RSVP required) Navigating USAJobs: May 17 & Sept. 20 Reasonable Accommodations: May 24 Resume writing: June 21, Aug 16, & Oct. 18
250 celebrating years
#SPIRITDAYS MAY 26: Aloha Friday JUNE 23: Rainbow Day JULY 27: Wear Red, White and Blue AUGUST 25: College Pride SEPTEMBER 22: Rep your Military Branch OCTOBER 27: Pink Out Day NOVEMBER 1: NNSY Pride Day
SPECIAL EVENTS JUNE 29: Third annual America's Shipyard Celebration AUG. 20: Bring your family and join the fun for Norfolk Naval Shipyard Day at the Norfolk Tides Sunday, Aug. 20. Game time is 4:05 p.m. Gates open at 3 p.m. Ticket specifics will be provided at a later date. OCT. 28: Family Day at Norfolk Naval Shipyard NOV. 1: Norfolk Naval Shipyard Anniversary Celebration
FALL IN FOR COLORS MAY 26: Memorial Day Fall in for Colors at Bldg. 1500 flag pole SEPT. 11: 9/11 Fall in For Colors NOV. 9: Veterans Day Fall in for Colors
#250FACTS
» VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
To see all the #250Facts, check out the shipyard's Facebook page and follow along as we count down #250Years of history and innovation. Fact 178 Before it entered the Atlantic Reserve Fleet May 8, 1946, NNSY’s first completed World War II vessel, USS Herndon, achieved many accomplishments during the war. It performed antisubmarine patrol duty and provided fire support for Gen. George Patton's 7th Army and British General Bernard Montgomery's 8th Army. It escorted troopships across the Atlantic. On D-Day, June 6, 1944, Herndon shelled enemy targets ashore at Omaha Beach. After escorting convoys in the Pacific until the war ended, Herndon finally sailed to China where it hosted a Japanese surrender. And it accomplished all this in just three and-a-half years of active service! Fact 168 Ship construction, ship repair and safecracking? An interesting task for the shipyard in 1899 was opening the iron safe of the Maria Teresa, a ship captured in the Spanish-American War, and taking possession of five canvas bags of coins valued at approximately $2,000. Fact 163 In May 1826, a Congressional resolution called for careful examinations and accurate surveys of potential sites for the nation’s first dry dock at the Navy yards at Portsmouth, New Hampshire; Charlestown, Massachusetts; Brooklyn, New York; and Gosport, Virginia. The shipyard’s Dry Dock 1 would become the first, docking its first ship in June 1833. Fact 160 The NNSY-built aircraft carrier Lake Champlain was the prime recovery ship for America's first manned space flight, "Freedom 7," which splashed down in May 1961.
Memorial Day Parade Norfolk Naval Shipyard will be participating in the 133rd Annual Memorial Day Parade May 29, with Capt. Brown acting as the Grand Marshal for the event. The Veteran Employee Readiness Group (VET-ERG) is looking for volunteers to march in the parade alongside 50 NNSY Sailors and the USS Alabama Float at the lead of the parade. Everyone is invited to join them at I.C. Norcom High School before the kick-off at 10 a.m. For more information or to sign up for the event, contact Jonathan Echols at 396-0525.
» POLICY PLUG Electronic Cigarettes Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS) are prohibited aboard ships, submarines, aircraft, boats, craft and heavy equipment. The prohibition is currently in effect on USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75). The prohibition will be effective aboard all other vessels at NNSY May 11. This policy applies to Sailors, civilians, and any personnel working on or visiting the ships. The policy is to protect the safety and welfare of Sailors and shipyard employees and to protect the ships and its equipment. The prohibition will remain in effect indefinitely. This new policy is in response to continued reports of explosions of ENDS due to the overheating of lithium-ion batteries. In these cases, injuries resulted from battery explosions during ENDS use, charging, replacement, or inadvertent contact with a metal object while transporting. Sailors and civilians are encouraged to use available tobacco cessation resources and programs offered through Navy medical services, Navy Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention (NADAP) programs, and the Civilian Employee Assistance Program (CEAP). MAY 2017 • SERVICE TO THE FLEET • 9
CNO and MCPON Tour America’s Shipyard
By Kristi Britt • Public Affairs Specialist | Photos by Tony Anderson and Shayne Hensley • NNSY Photographers
Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. John Richardson and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) (SG/ SW/IW) Steven S. Giordano visited Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) April 13, where they toured the USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) and held an all-hands call with Sailors and civilians in Bldg. 163. The CNO spoke to the workforce about the accomplishments from Fiscal Year 16 and the accomplishments aimed for Fiscal Year 17 and beyond, sharing his appreciation for its efforts. “All of your performance metrics and all of your trends are in the right direction,” said Richardson. “That’s impressive. That speaks to something I’ve been talking about a lot today and it’s essential to winning which is initiative. And this yard has shown tremendous initiative just to take control 10 • SERVICE TO THE FLEET • MAY 2017
of yourselves to exercise the full extent of your authorities all the way down to the individual worker doing the best they can.” Richardson continued, “You all have so much talent here in this yard. You can go and literally work anywhere in the country you want to with your skills. But you have
chosen to come and work here at Norfolk Naval Shipyard, America’s Shipyard. You have chosen to make a commitment to this country, commitment to our Navy, to be part of something bigger than yourself, to be part of supporting and defending our Constitution against all enemies, foreign
and domestic. That commitment, I respect that a great deal.” The CNO also held a question-andanswer session with the workforce, hearing questions and concerns for the future of the Navy and the shipyard. “Every decision I make, I make with you in mind,” said Richardson. “I want to make sure that we remove all obstacles to you achieving your absolute best possible performance. I want to hear from you directly about all your successes and I really want to hear about where I can help you.” The shipyard held a Big Rocks Ceremony following the CNO’s all-hands to recognize the Sailors and civilians performances during the second quarter. Personnel from Command University broke a rock commemorating the shipyard’s new High Velocity First Line Supervisor Training course. “What started as a simple idea last year has become a functioning training for our shipyard,” said Shipyard Commander,
Capt. Scott Brown. “Command University put in a lot of hard work and helped make this become a reality.” The new training program emphasizes learning opportunities outside the classroom, to include on-the-job experiences and increased interactions with shipyard senior leaders. The pilot class had a total of 26 students and graduated midMarch, ahead of its March 31 goal. "We wanted to wish a huge thank you to all who played a part in the implementation of this training,” said Code 900T’s Chakeita Dickson. “Thank you to those in Command University who put forth the effort in creating this course, and a huge thank you especially to our 26 pilot students who came in with an open mind to try something new. They are out there right now using the tools and techniques they’ve learned through the course out on the waterfront.” The next Big Rocks Ceremony is scheduled for June 21. MAY 2017 • SERVICE TO THE FLEET • 11
Meet the Mark: IMPROVEMENT THROUGH EMPOWERMENT
EYE ON INNOVATION: 3-D PRINTED TOOL BRINGS COST-SAVING SOLUTION TO RIGGING DEPARTMENT STORY AND PHOTOS BY KRISTI BRITT • PUBLIC AFFAIRS SPECIALIST Editor’s Note: At Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY), innovation and teamwork are key characteristics of the Rapid Prototype Lab (RPL). The RPL opens its doors to anyone who has an idea to make a process more efficient and is willing to aid anyone who seeks assistance. However, sometimes someone comes to the team seeking something they do not have the tools to provide. Rather than turn away these creative thinkers, the RPL reaches out to other shops within the shipyard to collaborate and get the job done. It all started with a little bit of curiosity. Lifting and Handling Department (Code 700) Rigging Shop (Shop 72) Lifting and Handling Specialist Jonathan Woodruff had often heard tales of the Rapid Prototype Lab (RPL) and its abilities to bring ideas to life. And when an opportunity arose in his department in need of an improvement in handling tie bolts, Woodruff knew exactly where to turn. “Our department has a single tool we use for jobs involving the tie bolts. It’s like a set of pliers with metal welded on to stop the tie bolts from rotating,” said Woodruff. “Though the tool did the job, it was a 12 • SERVICE TO THE FLEET • MAY 2017
difficult process to utilize the tool with the user having to fumble with the vice grips while getting the job done. It was a tedious process and with only one tool at our entire shop’s disposal, it was time for a change.” Woodruff came to the RPL March 17 with a vision in mind and the team was able to craft a prototype out of wood that same day to ensure the product was heading in the right direction. “Jonathan wanted a tool that was easyto-use and provided the best savings,” said Alim Jordan, woodcrafter from the RPL. “We created the wood model and we worked hand-in-hand with him to come up with a final design.” RPL’s Toolmaker John Tate added, “we then worked with Jonathan Mason, a Shop 31 toolmaker, who created a threedimensional (3-D) model of what we were looking for and printed it up so it could be tested.” The Tie Bolt Anti-Rotation Tool was printed with a polycarbonate material that is durable and efficient for getting the job done. The cost of a print job is around $30 and each build can print up to eight tools at a time. Once the first printed model was tested and slight changes were made to the
design, Tate finalized the design and concept via two-dimensional (2-D) CAD drawings that Mason then worked into the 3-D model for printing. “This was something new for our team so a lot of people were skeptical before we began testing,” said Woodruff. “But seeing it in action, it was highly effective and not only provided cost-savings but improved our quality of work life. Our team is fully onboard.” In less than a month the tool was printed and tested. The team has already begun purchasing 100 new tools and is looking to purchase even more with future availabilities. “I’m floored by how awesome it was to work with these guys at the RPL and seeing them take a simple idea and make it a reality,” said Woodruff. “I’m definitely going to be back with more ideas to see what else we can improve here at the shipyard.” “It was great working with Jonathan,” said Martrail Parker, process improvement manager for the RPL. “Any time we have someone who comes to us with a process for improvement or a new tool idea and is as involved with it as he has been, we want to ensure that we turn that idea into a solution.” “I’m thankful we have the RPL at the shipyard. There are so many great ideas out there in the shops and along the waterfront just waiting to be heard and these guys are the platform we need to bring those ideas to life,” said Woodruff. “I want to thank the RPL and my team in the shop who made this adventure a huge success. And it’s only just the beginning. I’m definitely going to be back with more ideas to see what else we can improve here at the shipyard. The RPL is always looking for ways to help shipyard employees do their jobs safer and more efficient. If you have an idea that might improve your job, contact the RPL at 396-4950/4956/4758 or 450-1863.
By Kristi Britt • Public Affairs Specialist | Photos by Shayne Hensley • NNSY Photographer
Ahead of schedule: Albany team completes mission essential work three weeks early The USS Albany (SSN 753) team completed mission critical work with the ballast tanks and the towed array handling systems three weeks ahead of schedule, ensuring a successful undocking three days early April 28. “A huge part of getting the ship out of dry dock is ensuring the ballast tanks and the towed array handling systems are in working order,” said Leo LaRue, Engineering and Planning Department (Code 200) Combat System Division (Code 290) sail and mechanical towed systems group leader. “Our team with the Albany project was able to come together and complete this difficult work.” Outside Machinists (Shop 38), Pipefitters (Shop 56), Electrical (Shop 51), and Electronic (Shop 67) mechanics as well as engineers and the Combat Systems Team worked together to accomplish the victory for Team Albany. From August to March, the team has been working long hours to test and repair to ensure the systems were ready for undocking. “This was a huge win for our team not only because we were able to complete this work ahead of schedule but a majority of the team consists of apprentices, new mechanics, and new engineers who got to experience this sort of job firsthand at the shipyard,” said LaRue. “These new folks came together and learned on the job, as well as learned from each other. This was a huge team effort and there’s a lot of potential and talent. These guys are the future of our shipyard and we want to continue working with them, training them, and passing on what knowledge we can to them.”
Combat Test Engineer Darnell Parker added, “A lot of these guys have never worked this kind of job before so we wanted to really drive home that they did great work and because of their efforts Albany is on the right track.” “It was a lot of hard work and it was something new for our team,” said Mike Parsons, mechanical engineer. “We came together and got it done. This is a win for us and it’s nice that we can celebrate. Now it’s on to the next job.”
MAY 2017 • SERVICE TO THE FLEET • 13
By April Brown • Public Affairs Specialist | Photos by Shayne Hensley • NNSY Photographer
SHIPYARD SPOTLIGHT: MORRIS BROWN To paraphrase the Postal Service motto, neither snow, nor rain, nor heat keeps gate guards at (Norfolk Naval Shipyard) NNSY from fulfilling their mission. During the morning rush, you will see one of those guards is Morris Brown, standing proudly and steadfast at Gate 15B through the elements of what Mother Nature has delivered. “Being a gate guard for the shipyard gives me the opportunity to get to know the people who come through my gate. I have always been a people person and this job gives me that opportunity to build a rapport with them,” said Brown. “Some employees just hand me their CAC without saying a word and wait for me to check it and hand it back. That does not stop me from smiling, interacting, and being friendly because that is just who I am. Some will chat with me in the morning about their weekend, vacation, and sports. I look forward to the conversations with them. We give each other a hard time about 14 • SERVICE TO THE FLEET • MAY 2017
different sports teams and rivals. I look forward to those conversations, especially if it is a good team rival. It’s all in fun.” His kindness has not gone unnoticed. Shipyard employees shared their thoughts about Morris Brown’s demeanor after coming through Gate 15B. There were only positive comments. Christine Fauntleroy, administrative management specialist for the Executive Support Office (Code 1100) Administrative and Industrial Services Branch (Code 1102) stated, “He is so friendly and is genuinely a nice guy who cares about his job and people. He is always smiling and has something nice to say, even when the weather is freezing or scorching hot.” “He is always courteous to everyone who comes through the gate. He takes pride in his uniform and reminds you when your CAC, DoD ID card, or tags are getting ready to expire. He is a great representation that NNSY is a professional organization,” said Vern Cortez, supervisory
7 THINGS YOU DIDN'T KNOW ABOUT
Morris
1. He was born and raised in Williamsburg, Va. 2. He is a sports fanatic and so is his son. 3. He recently proposed to his girlfriend LaDonna in front of hundreds of people in Philadelphia at John F. Kenney Plaza, also known as Love Park. 4. He loves to watch all kinds of movies and has a big collection. 5. His son, Khamari is his pride and joy. 6. His dream vacation is a trip to Bora Bora. 7. He recommends everyone to read the book “The 5 Love Languages.”
Brown and his son, Khamari.
writer for Code 1102. “His demeanor makes a difference for those who come through his gate. He really wants to know you and it amazes me how he remembers so much about the shipyard employees. If you haven’t gone through his gate in a while, or even months, then come through, he asks if you are okay. That type of thing doesn’t happen too often,” said Valerie Scott, program management specialist for the Diversity and Inclusion Office (Code 1103). “It’s one of the reasons why I enjoy coming to work through his gate. I will always be greeted with a warm hello and asked how my weekend was or week is going. He could be having a rough day, but you would never know it by his actions because he is wearing something that is contagious…his smile.” He has been a part of the NNSY family for almost two years. He likes his job, co-workers and shipyard employees, and hopes he will stay working here. The location has great appeal for him as well. “I
used to commute more times than I want to remember going back and forth between Hampton Roads and Northern Virginia. The traveling was getting to me and I really missed my family and my son, and I needed to be closer to him,” said Brown. “Something told me to look at shipyard jobs. When I saw the security job, I applied and everything after that just fell into place. I didn’t care I would be out in the weather elements because getting this job in the shipyard was a blessing and it allows me to spend more time with my son Khamari, my family, and my fiancé’s family.” When this Williamsburg native isn’t working, he is at the gym or spending time and planning a wedding with his new fiancé’ LaDonna. They both have big families and are looking forward to joining them together in the future. He is the oldest of six. He has four sisters and one brother. “I am the protector of my family. We are all grown up, but we still always have each other’s back, no matter where we are in the world…or somewhere cold like Alaska, where one of my sisters lives,” he said with a smile. He added, “Waking up every day is a blessing and I am thankful for that. I’m thankful I have a job and work with people who care about each other. I look at life like this…the sky is the limit. Don’t be afraid to do something because you might miss out on something great that can change your life, like me asking my girlfriend to marry me.” You can’t miss Brown at Gate 15B. He is always happy and has a big smile. “A smile is free, it is contagious and it makes you feel good. It’s funny how something so simple can leave such a big impact on someone’s life…just a smile,” said Brown. MAY 2017 • SERVICE TO THE FLEET • 15
SHIPYARDlegacies: By Michael Brayshaw • Lead Public Affairs Specialist
the Westfall family Admiral Elmer “Tom” Westfall. Unless you’re in that dedicated minority of having 40-plus years at Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY), you probably don’t know the name, but his influence continues four decades after his retirement. Attacking process bottlenecks to ensure non-stop execution of work? That started with Westfall. Looking for environmentally-friendly solutions while conducting ship repair? Westfall again. Establishing NNSY’s Shipyard Instructional Design Center that’s still the audiovisual leader for all four public shipyards? You guessed it--Westfall. If Star Wars forever changed Hollywood movies beginning in the late 1970s, one could make the case Admiral Westfall did the same for shipyard leadership in that era. He commanded Portsmouth Naval Shipyard before coming here, and upon retiring, worked as a NAVSEA contractor educating prospective commanders and other officers on how to effectively run a shipyard. Highly confident and hugely influential, his hand was as firm as his reach was long. Service to the Fleet put his January 2004 passing into perspective with the assertion “Rear Adm. Westfall was widely considered the ‘guru’ of U.S. Navy shipyards when he retired in 1977.” 16 • SERVICE TO THE FLEET • MAY 2017
Beyond the legacies of Westfall’s leadership, there is one of family as well, with his son Tim retiring at NNSY as a Lieutenant Commander, and his granddaughter Alexandra currently working here at Naval Facilities, Mid-Atlantic (NAVFAC MIDLANT) as a Planner. “It feels kind of special,” Alexandra said. “I was reflecting on it walking through these buildings on the North End. The history that’s here, I’m really happy to be a part of; plus it’s my first shipyard experience.” Her memories of NNSY go back to when she was 8 years old with her dad’s retirement in Trophy Park. “I remember all the dress whites. Otherwise I clearly remember my dad pinned a medal to each of us, and I remember watching him pin it to my chest thinking, ‘please don’t poke me, please don’t poke me.’” Afterwards, we got a tour of the Hammerhead Crane. I remember getting to the top and thinking, ‘Oh my God, I’m so high up and can see so far.’ It was very cool to me!” This Tulane University graduate comes from “a long line of engineers” but started circling a career in architecture “at about 13 or
14” due to a dual interest in math and artistry. She recounted seeing a book about ships in her house that was oddly intriguing to her. “It had sections of ships; it was really cool to look at,” she said, still enthusiastic recounting this so many years later. “So it was, ‘architecture! That’s what I like, that’s what I’m going to do.’” It took group exercise, a layoff from her private sector gig, and a NAVFAC job announcement to lead her to the shipyard. “I met the NAVFAC Architecture Technical Discipline Coordinator [David Davenport] in spin class. Six months later I got laid off from my job at a firm, and a job posting for NAVFAC architects came up through the local American Institute of Architects chapter. David was the pointof-contact.” Since she wasn’t yet a licensed architect, Davenport introduced her to the Naval Acquisition Development Program. “This opportunity was a little too hard to pass up, not only from a benefits standpoint, but the whole general mission of NAVFAC is to support the warfighter,” Alexandra said. “With the ties to my grandpa and my dad, I felt a calling to be a part of NAVFAC.” Since fall 2015, Alexandra has rotated through NAVFAC Public Works Department (PWD) Naval Station Norfolk Design and PWD Yorktown Weapons Station Construction before coming to NNSY. “It’s a short rotation here, unfortunately. I tried to get here sooner,” she said. “The rotational program has been really great for seeing the different landscapes that the Navy functions under.” Alexandra’s father Tim also enjoyed exposure to a number of naval facilities throughout his Navy career, working at Newport News Shipbuilding and SUBLANT before spending his last four years at NNSY. “I started on the Saipan getting an understanding of how the shipyard really works,” said Tim. “Did that for about a year, then was the project superintendent on L. Mendel Rivers, a modified 637-class that did special [operations]. Back in my time you did a tour on the waterfront, then you did your rounds in the business office.” Tim’s period of service is interesting because it started early enough he vividly remembers his interview with Adm. Hyman Rickover when he joined the Navy Nuclear Propulsion Program, but went on long enough he’s rife with anecdotes of working on the waterfront with now senior leaders like Mike Zydron and Chuck Adams. Like his daughter, Tim had a similar “a-ha” moment about his future from a chance encounter with a publication. “When I was in seventh grade, I read the Boy’s Life article about atomic energy,” he recalled. “And I said, ‘I want to learn about nuclear energy and nuclear power.’ You can do so much with nuclear energy, it’s just
amazing. And I joined the Navy because of our traditions. I said, ‘I’m going to go into Navy nuclear engineering because it’s the best!’” That feeling stuck with him over the next several years, as he moved to Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, and then NNSY during his father’s command here from 1974 to 1977. “I was in prep school from ’74-’76, then went to University of Virginia for a year while they were still here,” Tim said. “I was lifeguard at the [shipyard’s] Officer’s Club Pool. I would eat my Raisin Bran at 9:30, and be there by 10.” More than two decades after living in Quarters A, Tim bid farewell to the Navy in Trophy Park, mere steps away from the house in which he grew up. “It was a good experience and a nice day. I got a video of it from the department my dad helped establish. [Former Shipyard Commander] Adm. Klemm came down from NAVSEA to be the guest speaker, Capt. Scheib was the commander back then. I gave a medal to each of my kids.” And without sticking any of the three with a pin, it should be noted. What sticks with Tim about his own dad are loving memories. “He was a great dad. We all love our parents, most of the time. He devoted his whole life to the cause, 33 years in the Navy, you had to admire that. We grew up as regular kids, we weren’t militaristic at all. He would have done well in any atmosphere but he loved the Navy. And he felt a bigger calling to make the shipyard successful.” And that he did. During the admiral’s command tenure NNSY set overhaul records on all vessel types, from SSNs to carriers. He had a unique approach to thinking pragmatically about problems while being innovative in finding solutions, all while making work an enjoyable experience. As Admiral Westfall himself summed up about his NNSY tenure: “My time at Norfolk Naval Shipyard was a rewarding personal and professional experience. I firmly believe work should be fun. I had fun at Norfolk Naval Shipyard.” MAY 2017 • SERVICE TO THE FLEET • 17
Out & About:
BACK BAY National Wildlife Refuge
Story and photos by Troy Miller • Visual Information Specialist
"If we're lucky, we will see some snakes." “If we’re lucky, we will see some snakes,” said Erica Ryder, visitor services specialist of Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) visitor services specialist in Virginia Beach. I asked her how that was lucky, as I tried to keep up with her fast pace. I am one of those individuals who loves nature and loves being outdoors, as long as there are no snakes to enjoy the outdoors with me. “We had some 4th grade elementary school students on a field trip here just last week and they were overly excited because they saw some snakes,” she replied with a wide smile. It’s been longer than I care to mention since I’ve been an elementary school student, so the excitement for seeing snakes was just not there. Fortunately, I didn’t see any snakes 18 • SERVICE TO THE FLEET • MAY 2017
that would take the enjoyment away from the sights, sounds, and even smells of the wildlife refuge. This adventure of mine to Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge started when I decided to explore beyond Little Island Park located in the Sandbridge community of Virginia Beach. I came upon the entrance to the refuge that was surrounded by sand dunes. When I entered the refuge, I realized I stumbled upon a hidden jewel, something very few national parks and wildlife refuges have. “Back Bay is freshwater and a half-mile away is the Atlantic Ocean, which of course is saltwater,” said Ryder. “This gives us a unique opportunity to view two different kinds of habitats and ecosystems. This also allows
visitors to go fishing for saltwater fish and freshwater fish in the same general vicinity, as long as they have the proper state fishing licenses.” I didn’t realize one could go fishing in a wildlife refuge. But this sounded like fun, especially since Ryder told me that a lot of people like to come here and go fly fishing. But come to find out, fishing wasn’t the only activity the refuge had to offer. Back Bay Wildlife Refuge offers more than eight miles of trails for both hiking and bicycling. Since I don’t own a bike, I headed down the West Dike Trail , which opened that morning, April 1, after being closed during the migratory season. At one point, I stopped and closed my eyes. I could hear waves dancing off in the distance and the soft, joyful song of birds. The sun gently touched my face as the calming breeze fluttered around me. The sweet perfume that only spring can offer, tickled my nose. There was no traffic noise, jet noise, or even noise of other people. It was just me connecting with nature. I asked Ryder to describe Back Bay NWR in one word. After much thought, she came up with “peaceful.” It wasn’t until that moment, standing with my eyes closed, that I could relate to her reply. Especially when I opened my eyes only to see two swans swimming in the bay.
If I had continued to the end of the West Dike trail, I would’ve come to False Cape Virginia State Park, a park that is only accessible by hiking or biking on the West Dike or East Dike trails of the NWR. It was approximately a three-mile hike one way, so I decided that my visit to False Cape would have to wait. My biggest surprise that morning was the variety of park passes that were free. If you have a 4th grader, whether they want to find snakes or not, they are eligible for a free pass. For more details on this pass visit everykidinapark.gov. Active duty military can obtain a pass for free. They just have to show their military I.D. card at the entrance. The final free pass is the Access Pass. This is for any military veteran who has a disability. All the veteran has to do is bring their VA Disability letter, the same one they would use for USAJobs.gov, to the entrance gate and the lifetime Access Pass will be issued to them. The disability percentage can range anywhere between one to 100 percent. The Annual Passes and Senior Passes are also available at a cost. All passes cover entrance to national wildlife refuges, national parks, national forests, Bureau of Land Management lands, and most Army Corps of Engineer sites. These passes do not cover state parks. Back Bay NWS offers many free programs for children, from fishing clinics, to wildlife adventures, to workshops where they learn about bats as they make a bat box for their home, or learning about birds as they make a pinecone birdfeeder. There are plenty of programs for adults as well, from bird watching, to photography, to evening tram tours. For more information on these passes, programs and much more, visit www.fws.gov/refuge/Back_Bay/. And maybe you will be lucky and see a snake on your adventure. MAY 2017 • SERVICE TO THE FLEET • 19
NFAAS, HURRICANES, STORMS, EVACUATIONS AND GENERAL PREPAREDNESS
It is not necessarily a matter of if it’s going to happen…it is a matter of when it is going to happen. Being prepared for the inevitable can help ease the stress of any chaotic and catastrophic situation. “Mother Nature is full of surprises. We don’t always get an advanced warning, so we need to be prepared as much as possible for what might be thrown at us,” said Steve Murley, NNSY emergency management officer. “Everyone needs to have an emergency plan at work and at home. If something happened today, are you ready? Do you have an emergency kit? Do your family members know where to meet you or go if you are required to stay behind due to a mission essential personnel status? When and how do you evacuate?” If the governor says to evacuate and deems the area a state of emergency, or if it’s a federal or state declaration to evacuate and you leave, you will not get paid per diem unless that evacuation order comes from senior Navy leadership. “In accordance with the Joint Travel Regulations (JTR), U.S. Fleet Forces, Commander, Navy Region
20 • SERVICE TO THE FLEET • MAY 2017
Mid-Atlantic (CNRMA) or the shipyard commander will authorize the evacuation,” said Murley. “Employees are allowed to travel up to a 400 mile radius and get paid per diem based on their evacuation location. It is important that personnel save all of their receipts to process their evacuation claims when they return to work. Per diem covers active duty military and their families. When it comes to civilians, it only covers the employee.” Before a disaster arises, getting prepared and knowing the communication elements are important. “Communication is key and a two-way street. During emergencies, we use media outlets (radio, TV, social media, etc.) AtHoc, and Giant Voice. All of these things help us communicate with you,” said Murley. “The best way you can communicate with your command is mustering with your supervisor and through the Navy Family Accountability and Assessment System (NFAAS).” NFAAS was created based on the catastrophic effects of Hurricane Katrina in 2005. NFAAS is a large database that holds
emergency information of Department of the Navy (DoN) military and civilian personnel and their families. Every six months all DoN employees receive a notification to update their NFAAS information. Verification deadline dates are the first of April and October of each year. “Per NAVADMIN 051/16, active duty personnel are required to update and verify their and dependents NFAAS. Nonbargaining civilian employees are mandated to update their contact information and it is only recommended that bargaining civilians verify and update their NFAAS unless mandated by the union,” said Bob Sorensen, NNSY NFAAS Tier II Rep and Personnel Security Manager. “It is unfortunate that some of our civilians don’t like to give out emergency contact information due to the privacy of it. I understand their concern. I just would like to stress that it makes the process much easier on both sides if the information is current and by not updating and verifying it could affect their benefits during an emergent situation. Especially if they are stuck somewhere and need
RECOMMENDED SUPPLIES:
BY APRIL BROWN • PUBLIC AFFAIRS SPECIALIST
• •
some sort of help. They might be stuck on their roof because everything is flooded. It could happen; look at the devastation that Hurricane Katrina left in New Orleans.” When a disaster strikes, Navy commands have 72 hours to be at 100 percent muster accountable for all of their personnel. “When someone checks in, transfers, or leaves DoN for any reason, their information needs to be updated in NFAAS,” said Sorensen. “It can get quite confusing and frustrating during an emergent situation when there is someone on your list you are trying to account for and not knowing they have left weeks, months, or even years ago. More than 11,000 people is a lot to account for in 72 hours. We want to make it easy as possible for everyone involved.” While evacuated, displaced, or bunkered down somewhere, personnel can access NFAAS via iPhone, tablet, laptop or computer, and muster with their supervisor via phone or text. “It is a good idea to have muster distribution lists already built on your phone for your family and work personnel,” said Murley. “It is a quick and easy way to account for everyone. And, during a disastrous situation, the best way to communicate is via text because it will still go through when the cell towers are down.” Other valuable resources for emergent situations are smart phone applications or apps. “Download free weather, news, Ready Navy apps and get familiar and understand how they function,” said Murley. “There is an app on phones called In Case of an Emergency (ICE). The app is red and has a symbol on the screen. It allows the owner to build contact lists so when a crisis occurs; any emergency services personnel can look at your phone (without unlocking it) and get your emergency contact and call them for you.” In preparations of emergent situations, building a get-up-and-go emergency kit and having a written plan will save valuable time. “Some of the items you want to include
in a kit are a list of contacts with current phone numbers, insurance policy numbers, family medications, important documents, clothes, flashlights, maps, hygiene products, blankets, bottled water, and non-perishable snacks,” said Murley. “Your kit should contain enough essentials for each person for 72 hours. A gallon of water and snacks for each person is recommended for three days. I don’t advise anyone to wait until the emergency happens. Have you ever watched the news or went to the store when an emergency happens? It is chaotic and most of the stuff is probably gone when you get there. When the stores and gas stations run out of resources, it’s gone until their trucks can get back into that area. It could be days or weeks. You need to be prepared to bunker down and ride the storm out if necessary.” It’s a good idea to stock your work cubicle or office with water, non-perishable food, a change of clothes, hygiene items, medications, wind-up radios, flashlights, cell phone chargers, and blankets. “Build an additional kit for inside your car. If you happen to use something or it has expired, quickly replace those items so you will have it when you need it,” said Murley. “You never know when you may get a notification on your phone about an unexpected pop up tornado, streets closed due to flooding, or a heavy hail storm. That pop up might save you time and help you quickly find a shelter or safe haven that will protect you from the weather elements of high winds, heavy rains, and flooding.” “The best advice I can give our employees is to have a plan, have a kit, and stay informed,” said Murley. “Drive and know different evacuation and travel routes. Don’t drive in flooded streets. A storm surge is very damaging, can cause millions of dollars in damage, and you can easily drown. Take Hurricane Matthew for example. Residents saw flooding they hadn’t seen for over 50 years. We can’t assume it isn’t going to happen…we need to be ready…at all times for any of Mother Nature’s or manmade disastrous events.”
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
A three-day supply of one gallon of water for each person Three days’ supply of nonperishable foods Battery or hand-cranked radio and flashlight (extra batteries) First aid kit A whistle and flares to get help Matches Hand sanitizer and wet wipes for cleaning and bathing Plastic bags and ties, large bucket or garbage cans Paper products (paper towels, toilet paper, tissues, paper bags Small tool box with tools such as pliers, hammer, screwdriver, and wrench Maps of the local area Pain medication (ibuprofen and aspirin) and prescribed Can and bottle opener Cell phone and charger (wind up ones available) Candles and lanterns Plywood to close off doors and windows Chainsaw and/or hand saw
Every copy of the Guidelines for Navy Family Emergency Preparedness has a blank emergency plan inside of it. Fill it out and keep is somewhere safe and dry. If you don’t already have your copy, you can pick one up from Bldg. 1500, Room 241B or visit www.nsfamilyline.org/publications/ FamilyLineEmergencyPrep2013.pdf RESOURCES: For more information on NFAAS, hurricanes, and evacuations navyfamily.navy.mil Hampton Roads evacuation map www.virginiadot.org/travel/resources/ hurricaneEvacuation1_routes.pdf Virginia VDOT Department of Emergency Management Virginia Hurricane Preparedness Guide www.vaemergency.gov/preparerecover/threat/hurricanes/ MAY 2017 • SERVICE TO THE FLEET • 21
By Jennifer Zingalie • Public Affairs Specialist | Photos by Luke Beasley • NNSY Photographer
NNSY gets shelter training to house riders of the storm March was American Red Cross (ARC) month and volunteers Alan Doorbecker and Carrie Thomas spent time at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) Callaghan Fitness Center, training employees and Sailors how to stand up and operate a shelter for emergency events. “It’s an awesome idea to partner together,” said Doorbecker, ARC team supervisor and disaster team volunteer. “Everyone needs to know what to do and where to go.” According to Nicole Roten, Emergency Operations Center (EOC) manager for NNSY, knowing how to stand up a shelter is valuable for shipyard employees for a couple of reasons. “If military housing gets damaged or destroyed during an emergency, like a hurricane, the shipyard would be able to quickly house military members and their families as well as federal employees on travel,” said Roten. The shipyard could also assist the city if needed. Another reason relates to the shipyard mission which is to repair ships and get them out on time. This past winter, during the January storm, unlike other area organizations, the shipyard remained open. During the storm, a team of shipyarders remained on their jobsites in order to complete critical path work for USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) and USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77). This meant the shipyard also needed to keep gates open, ensure parking areas were accessible and walkways were safe for passage. 22 • SERVICE TO THE FLEET • MAY 2017
“During this past storm we were able to house these employees who stayed to get this work done in our nearby lodging,” said Roten. “However, now we will have the ability to set up a shelter. This helps us keep our employees safe and comfortable, minimizing their time on the road and providing them a place close to work where they can refresh themselves.” “The first time you open up a shelter and set it up you don’t want that to be ‘the crisis,’” said Doorbecker. “This training we are giving shows our volunteers how to register clients, set up a dormitory and control its population and stick to Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) guidelines based on circumstances. The important thing for people to do is be ready. The Red Cross has a lot of resources that help people get ready and for those looking for something to do in their spare time they can volunteer to help others get ready.” And now, thanks to ARC, NNSY is ready to set up a shelter should it ever need to, said Roten.
COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT FLTHRO AT NNSY By Alise Skinner | Workforce Development Specialist The Fleet Human Resources (FLTHRO) staff is ready to assist shipyard employees with many human resources needs. They provide expert advice and guidance to managers and employees regarding position classification, recruitment, compensation, personnel actions, labor and employee relations, and workers’ compensation. There are some common misconceptions about which services FLTHRO provides. There are three types of questions frequently directed toward FLTHRO that are not a part of your local shipyard human resources office. MISCONCEPTION 1: Benefits FLTHRO does not manage any of your benefits. The agency human resources office for retirement is the Civilian Benefits Center (CBC) at the Office of Civilian Human Resources (OCHR). When the Navy centralized retirement processing some years ago, all actions were directed through the CBC. If you have a question regarding insurance, healthcare, or retirement, the first place to check is the website for the Employee Benefits Information Center, or EBIS at www.civilianbenefits.hroc. navy.mil. If you haven’t logged on before, you will need your social security number, date of birth, service computation date (from your SF-50, block 4) and your pay scale information. EBIS is the primary clearing house for all your benefits information; the “My Benefits” tab will provide you a complete overview. The retirement page estimates monthly benefits based on
your retirement age. If EBIS online doesn’t help you, call the benefits hotline at 888-320-2917. Once connected, press number 4 to reach a real person. MISCONCEPTION 2 – Employment Verification Employment verification is done via “MyBiz” to verify employment or salary. Using a Common Access Card (CAC) enabled computer, go to compo.dcpds.cpms.osd.mil. The MyBiz portal will provide employment and salary verification to any email address the employee submits. Any verbal or written inquiries directed to FLTHRO will be directed back to MyBiz. MISCONCEPTION 3 – Discrimination Claims of discrimination (religion, age, race, gender, color, sexual orientation, disability, genetic information) and sexual harassment are filed in the Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Office. The EEO Office is separate from FLTHRO, however the two offices are co-located Bldg. 15 on McKeever Street. EEO can be reached directly at 757-396-7888 or USFF_EEO@navy.mil. The FLTHRO staff prides itself on customer service and we are always happy to take your questions. If we aren’t the right solution, we will be happy to help direct you to someone who is. Find us at Bldg. 15, McKeever Street, second floor, or call 396-2231 or email FLTHRO_NNSY@navy.mil. MAY 2017 • SERVICE TO THE FLEET • 23
#SPIRITDAY April 27 was Wear Green Day! Thank you to everyone who participated.