Bahrain Desert Times Volume 20, Number 520

NSA BAHRAIN VISITS ALIA FOR EARLY INTERVENTION

By Ameera

Al-Kooheji, NSA Bahrain Public Affairs MANAMA, Bahrain— In support of Autism Awareness Month, Sailors assigned to Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain visited the Alia Autism Centers - Alia for Early Interven-tion in coordination with the Bahrain Society for Children with Behavioral & Communi-cation Difficulties in A’ali, Bahrain, April 21.

The visit created direct interactions between Sailors and students on the spectrum with various social activities that included cooking classes, physical training and music amongst other activities. The center faculty educated the Sailors about other treatments and methods by joining the students in classes that included occupational therapy, cognitive behavior therapy and applied behavioral analysis.

“It was a really nice experience,” said Master-at-Arms 3rd Class Ema Pulido, one of the Sailors visiting Alia Autism Centers. “It felt good giving to all these kids and hanging out with them. It’s a memory I’ll hold forever in my heart.”

The initiative to visit the Alia Autism Centers is part of NSA Bahrain's commitment to foster Sailor engagement and reinforce social responsibility through support of the so-ciety’s mission - to foster understanding and acceptance for individuals with Autism in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

Dr. Shaikha Rania Al Khalifa, director, Alia for Early Intervention and Alia Rehabilitation Center, was appreciative of this visit and expressed her gratitude.

“Community events such as this one align perfectly with our mission to further enhance the student’s interactive abilities and spread Autism awareness across cultures,” said Dr. Shaikha Khalifa. “We are thankful to the U.S. Navy for their support and look forward to future opportunities.”

The community relations event was the second collaboration with Bahrain Society for Children with Behavioral & Communication Difficulties this year. NSA Bahrain hosted Dr. Stephen Shore, a visiting professor of special education at Adelphi University, Feb. 28, to spread awareness about Autism and break associated stigmas.

“We are thankful to be able to collaborate with the Alia Autism Centers for the second time, and especially because April is Autism Awareness Month,” said Capt. Zachariah Aperauch, commanding officer, NSA Bahrain. “The relationship between the amazing staff and students from the school, and our U.S. Navy Sailors stationed here in Bahrain, is one I anticipate will only grow stronger in the years to come.”

NSA Bahrain’s mission is to support U.S. and coalition maritime operations throughout the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations by providing security for ships, aircraft and tenants on board NSA Bahrain and assigned detachments. NSA Bahrain provides efficient and effective shore services to sustain the fleet, enable the fighter and support the family with honor, courage and commitment.

USS Firebolt Heroes Remembered, 20 Years On

Sailor in the Spotlight

NSA Bahrain Rallies to Support DoDEA School Amidst Rain-Induced Damage

3 - Going Green: NSA Bahrain Sows Seeds for Earth Day

- Chaplain's Corner

- Cinema

NSA Bahrain Rallies to Support DoDEA School Amidst Rain-Induced Damage

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Shayla D. Hamilton, NSA Bahrain Public Affairs

More than 35 Sailors from Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain demonstrated their commitment to service and community by volunteering at the Bahrain Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) School, April 23 and 25.

The recent heavy rainfall in Bahrain caused extensive damage to the Bahrain DoDEA School classrooms, necessitating a temporary shift to a virtual learning environment.

“The DoDEA Bahrain Schools have shifted to remote learning status this week due to the recent extreme weather conditions in the region and to allow the school management, alongside our military partners and Bahrain International Schools Association, to conduct thorough facility assessments, planning and repairs on the school,” said Jessica Tackaberry, Europe region communications director, DoDEA. “We are working hand in hand with our military partners and Bahrain International Schools Association to ensure repairs are completed and a safe environment for all.”

Recognizing the impact on the students and the importance of their education, the Sailors from NSA Bahrain stepped up to support the school in its time of need. In the aftermath of heavy rainfall causing significant damage to the school's infrastructure, volunteers dedicated more than seven hours of service across two days, playing a crucial role in relocating classrooms and

equipment, enabling the school to continue its mission of providing quality education to military dependents in the region.

Capt. Zachariah Aperauch, NSA Bahrain’s commanding officer, commended the efforts of the Sailors, highlighting their commitment to their shipmates and their families.

"So many Sailors answered the call to assist the Bahrain School, many of whom don't have children at the school, but understand how important attending class in person is to the learning process," said Aperauch. "I am beyond proud of our NSA Bahrain team - their selfless hard work and tireless dedication have made it possible for these kids to get back to

school as quickly as possible."

NSA Bahrain Sailors moved desks, tables, chairs, and other equipment from the damaged classrooms, facilitating the smooth transition of the school's operations. Their efforts were instrumental in re-establishing a conducive learning environment for the students, allowing them to resume in-person classes.

Kelsey Lambert, Bahrain School Liaison, also expressed gratitude for the support of the service members.

“We are extremely grateful for the immediate and effective assistance provided by the Sailors from NSA Bahrain," said Lambert. “Their willingness to lend a helping hand during this challenging time further emphasizes the strong

partnership between the military community and our school. Their actions serve as a testament to the spirit of camaraderie and selflessness that defines the military community, and their impact will be felt by the students and staff of the Bahrain DoDEA School for years to come."

NSA Bahrain’s mission is to support U.S. and coalition maritime operations throughout the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations by providing security for ships, aircraft and tenants on board NSA Bahrain and assigned detachments. NSA Bahrain provides efficient and effective shore services to sustain the fleet, enable the fighter and support the family with honor, courage, and commitment.

Courtesy Story

USS Firebolt Heroes Remembered, 20 Years On

MANAMA, Bahrain — Sailors, Coast Guardsmen, and others gathered at Naval Support Activity Bahrain April 24 to observe the 20th anniversary of the lives lost when three USS Firebolt crewmembers thwarted an attack on critical Iraqi oil platforms during Operation Iraqi Freedom. The ceremony honors the lives of U.S. Navy Sailors Boatswain’s Mate 1st Class Michael J. Pernaselli and Signalman 2nd Class Christopher E. Watts, and U.S. Coast Guard Damage Controlman 3rd Class Nathan B. Bruckenthal, who died while conducting maritime security operations in the Arabian Gulf on April 24, 2004. The three were stationed aboard the Cyclone-class patrol coastal boat USS Firebolt (PC 10). The three were killed while intercepting a suspicious dhow headed for the Khawr Al Amaya Oil Terminal in the Northern Arabian Gulf. As their rigid-hull inflatable boat neared the dhow, the vessel exploded in an apparent suicide attack. This action prevented the dhow from hitting its intended target, but caused the RHIB to capsize, leading to the three service members losing their lives in the process. “Their heroism in the waters of

the North Arabian Gulf 20 years ago today inspires us still,” said Vice Adm. George Wikoff, commander of U.S. 5th Fleet, who spoke at the ceremony. “Even as we speak, Sailors not unlike these three young men are facing down anti-ship ballistic missiles and one-way attack drones in the Red Sea. Like these heroes from Firebolt, they sail unflinchingly into harm’s way, understanding theirs is no ‘routine mission.’” Wikoff also noted that today, Sailors and Coastguardsmen in the Arabian Gulf and the Northern Arabian Sea provide assistance to mariners

when needed, and board suspect vessels to ensure regional maritime security, interdicting illicit drug trafficking, and seizing weapons intended for malign actors. “They, too, know it’s no ‘routine mission,’” he said. The ceremony also included recapping the lives and accomplishments of the three service members as well as the playing of Taps and tolling a bell 11 times, symbolic of church bells which rang on the eleventh hour on the eleventh day of the eleventh month in 1918 to signal the end of the First World

War. Firebolt, which was decommissioned in February 2022, was commissioned in June 1995. It began conducting coastal patrol operations in the U.S. 5th Fleet in 2003. Prior to operating from Bahrain, the ship helped secure New York City’s harbor immediately following the September 11th terrorist attacks. Months later, Firebolt conducted coastal patrols in the Arabian Gulf during Operation Iraqi Freedom. U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations encompasses about 2.5 million square miles of water area and includes the Arabian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, Red Sea and parts of the Indian Ocean. The expanse comprises of 20 countries and includes three critical choke points at the Strait of Hormuz, the Suez Canal and the Strait of Bab al Mandeb at the southern tip of Yemen.

Going Green: NSA Bahrain Sows Seeds for Earth Day

By MC1 Shayla D. Hamilton, NSA Bahrain Public Affairs

MANAMA, Bahrain – Service members and civilians assigned to Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain and Public Works Department (PWD) Bahrain dedicated time, participating in events highlighting Earth Day, April 22-23.

Earth Day is celebrated worldwide each year, aiming to raise awareness, inspire change, and foster a deeper connection with nature. Earth Day gives bases and commands a unique opportunity to build relationships with local government agencies and communities. The theme for Earth Day 2024 is “Three Cs: Communities, Critical Infrastructure, and Climate Action.”

"This year's Earth Day events provided conservation benefits to our host nation's environmental resources while demonstrating the U.S. Navy's commitment to environmental stewardship," said Hawra Abu-Idrees, Environmental Resources and Assessments supervisor.

In recognition of Earth Day, the Environmental Resources and Assessments team at NSA Bahrain in collaboration with Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR)

Bahrain, hosted a recycling booth, designed to inform installation personnel about proper recycling procedures, waste minimization, and water conservation.

During the event, a blind taste test was conducted comparing base-produced drinking water to bottled water, with more than 70% of participants preferring base water. Joel Mathew, installation Energy Manager, discussed the importance of global water saving efforts and the steps NSA Bahrain is taking to support it.

“Water is a precious and limited resource,” said Mathew. “At NSA Bahrain we buy water from the local authorities and treat it further to meet our exacting standards. This process requires significant energy. Therefore, every drop we conserve translates to a double benefit: saving water and saving energy. By implementing water-saving practices, we can ensure the continued operation of the installation while minimizing our environmental impact.”

Capt. Zachariah Aperauch, NSA Bahrain’s commanding officer, Cmdr. Jimmy Harmon, NSA Bahrain’s executive officer, Cmdr. Riley Smith, Public Works Officer, PWD Bahrain, along with

Environmental and MWR Bahrain personnel, planted native palm trees, signifying and emphasizing NSA Bahrain’s commitment to environment-friendly practices.

“We are continuously implementing energy-saving measures across our installation here at NSA Bahrain,” said Mathew. “This includes building retrofits with LED lighting and smart controls to promote energy. Every kilowatt saved strengthens our energy security and reduces our environmental footprint.

Earth Day is a reminder of our collective responsibility towards the planet. By

embracing energy efficiency, renewable energy sources and innovative technologies, we are ensuring a more secure and sustainable future for the Navy and for our planet.”

NSA Bahrain’s mission is to support U.S. and coalition maritime operations throughout the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations by providing security for ships, aircraft and tenants on board NSA Bahrain and assigned detachments. NSA Bahrain provides efficient and effective shore services to sustain the fleet, enable the fighter and support the family with honor, courage, and commitment.

MIND BODY MENTAL FITNESS

Mind-Body Mental Fitness (MBMF) is a program designed to help Sailors and their families better understand how to cope with stressors that are presented in the military lifestyle. Learn tools to manage stress and enhance the mind, body, spirit, and social domains in your life.

Classes take place at Building 100 Room 128A from 1100 -1200

1: Stress Resiliency | May 9, 2024

Learn how stress affects the 4 domains of resilience (mind, body, spirit, and social).

3: Living Core Values | May 23, 2024

Learn how to identify, align, and define your values and connect them to your personal and professional environment.

5: Problem Solving | June 6, 2024

Discover the basic steps for effective problemsolving and how it can be used at work and home.

Learn about the three attitudes of mindfulness; non-judgement, curiosity, and acceptance.

MIND-BODY MENTAL FITNESS

2: Mindfulness & Meditation | May 16, 2024

Learn how to understand your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors and how they interact with each other.

4: Flexibility | May 30, 2024

Learn how connection and communication help you manage stress and develop resiliency.

6: Connection | June 13, 2024

Learn how connection and communication help you manage stress and develop resiliency.

Register now at Email: FFSC.Bahrain@us.navy.mil

*Register for the full series or take any of the 6 modules as a stand-alone class*

ONE BOY, ONE GIRL

By Ch. D. Anthony Baker III

Let me tell you a story about a boy and a girl. First, about the girl… Picture her in your mind as I describe her to you — dark blonde hair in long curls that dance in the wind like wheat in a farmer’s field. Emerald green eyes that are as deep in color and imagination as the most precious of stones, a smile beautiful and mysterious with a hint of mischief beyond. She is a dream girl, perfect in every way, as least as the boy saw her.

Now, about the boy… a troubled loner who didn’t have many friends at school, a 12-yearold kid who had just as many problems in the home as out of it. His stepfather was abusive; the type of guy who liked to grab, push, and hit his wife as much as he liked doing those very same things to the boy. Every day was a struggle for the boy, not knowing what would happen to him. What would the day bring? Would his parents be fighting today? Would they blame him for their problems? Would they take it out on him as they had done many times before? This mystery would be answered as the day wore on, with every circumstance or situation continually dictating the mood of the house. The stress hanging over the boy's head became too much for him.

WOMEN OF THE BIBLE

lasting legacy and impact, inspired and empowered others

Served as examples of righteousness and virtue

Encountered transformative encounters with God

Nurtured and cared for their families

Embraced their unique callings and giftings!

One day, the boy and his mom sat down for dinner, just the two of them. The boy said, “Tomorrow, I am going to kill myself.” He had been thinking about it for some time, planning how he was going to do it; when he was going to do it. And now, he had finally built up the nerve to go through with his suicide. His mother chewed her food in silence. Maybe she thought that was not such a bad option considering the circumstances. After a few more moments of silence, she said to him, “You don’t want to do that. Let’s talk about it.”

If I had killed myself the next day as I had planned, the boy that I was would have never met the girl who would be my daughter. She was born this year in April, thirteen years ago. In addition to her, I would have never had the joy of raising my four sons or meeting my incredible wife. I would have missed out on all the great things life offers. Suicide is a lie from the dark depths; it makes you believe there is no hope, no future, or other way. But it is simply not true. God has a plan for each one of our lives, and the enemy of the soul seeks to rob that plan for its own. God loves us, will never abandon us, and will see us through the shadow of death we sometimes walk through. If you are struggling with thoughts of suicide, help is available to you. Chaplains, medical personnel, and counselors are all here to come alongside and assist you when you need it most. If we can help see you to the other side, a wonderful world of possibilities is waiting for you.

New MOVIES at the MWR Cinema

Dune 2 (PG-13) – 2h 46m

Paul Atreides unites with Chani and the Fremen while seeking revenge against the conspirators who destroyed his family. Facing a choice between the love of his life and the fate of the universe, he must prevent a terrible future only he can foresee. | Cast: Timothée Chalamet, Austin Butler, Florence Pugh, Zendaya

Immaculate (R) – 1h 29m

An American nun embarks on a new journey when she joins a remote convent in the Italian countryside. However, her warm welcome quickly turns into a living nightmare when she discovers her new home harbours a sinister secret and unspeakable horrors. | Cast: Sydney Sweeney, Benedetta Porcaroli, Álvaro Morte, Simona Tabasco

Arthur the King (PG-13) – 1h 47m

An adventure racer adopts a stray dog named Arthur to join him in an epic endurance race. | Cast: Mark Wahlberg, Simu Liu, Juliet Rylance

Late Night with the Devil (R) – 1h 33m

In 1977 a live television broadcast goes horribly wrong, unleashing evil into the nation's living rooms. | Cast: David Dastmalchian, Ingrid Torelli, Laura Gordon, Georgina Haig