December 12, 2014• VOL. 71 • NO. 47• NAVY.MIL/LOCAL/GUANTANAMO • FACEBOOK.COM/NSGuantanamoBay
NAVAL STATION GUANTANAMO BAY, CUBA • PSC 1005 BOX 25 • FPO, AE 09593 • 011-5399-4090
NS Guantanamo Bay Announces Sailors of the Year
From Left to Right: NS Guantanamo Bay Sailor of the Year CS1 Marshall Ford, Junior Sailor of the Year BM2 Matthew Graham, NS Guantanamo Bay Commanding Officer, Capt. J.R. Nettleton, and Blue Jacket of the Year MA3 Kristen Volk. Photo and Story by MCC Keith Bryska. stagnate, especially in this demanding rate. He put his heart aval Station (NS) Guantanamo Bay Commanding into what he was doing, and when your heart is present you Officer Capt. J.R. Nettleton recently announced the refuse to settle for less.” 2014 Sailor of the Year winners for the installation. MasterNS Guantanamo Bay’s Junior Sailor of the Year said he was At-Arms 3rd Class Kristen Volk was selected as Blue Jacket ecstatic when his name was announced. of the Year (BJOY), Boatswain’s Mate 2nd Class Matthew “JSOY was something I set my heart and mind on when Graham was selected as the Junior Sailor of the Year (JSOY) I first arrived here at NS Guantanamo Bay and I used it to and Culinary Specialist 1st Class Marshal Ford was selected help motivate me,” said Graham. “The JSOY title to me is as Sailor of the Year. “I felt blessed and thankful to be named Sailor of the Year,” the ultimate appreciation and recognition for the work ethic and dedication I brought to the job each day. It’s also an said Ford. “I know it was group of people who helped me honor and humbling experience to be selected because you receive this award so I was definitely appreciative for all help know your competition wants it just as bad as you, and you and guidance I was provided along the way.” Ford also had the opportunity to travel to Jacksonville, Fla. are now considered a role model for your junior sailors to as one of five finalists competing for Sailor of the Year (SOY) emulate.” Just as were the two other selectees, Volk was very proud to for Commander, Navy Region Southeast (CNRSE). “My trip to Jacksonville was great, I met four other Sailors be selected as Blue Jacket of the Quarter. “I was surprised at first when I was selected, because all of the Year from the Southeast Region along with their the other Sailors that were nominated were well deserving as CMC’s and received a lot senior knowledge to bring back,” said Ford. “We went to a Veterans Home and I had a chance BJOY as well,” said Volk. “It makes me feel like I have done to speak to many war veterans who served during World War a great job and I will continue to strive to do my best.” Chief Master-at-Arms Jon Staercke believes that both II and was humbled to hear their stories and put a smile on Graham and Volk were selected because of their leadership their faces. It was an experience I will not forget.” roles on and off duty. Chief Culinary Specialist Juan Yarbrough believes that “Volk is a model Sailor in behavior and attitude. She Ford was selected as SOY because he is mission focused and provides an exceptionally high degree of leadership and selfless. supervisory ability. She has set the standard for her peers and “He has developed professional and personally from the senior Sailors alike,” said Staercke. “Graham has established time he checked into the command. Everyone has a vision himself as a pillar within the Security Department, and expectation for their new assignment and Ford’s was installation and the community. He epitomizes the Navy’s certainly to excel as the galley’s Leading Petty Officer,” said Core Values of Honor, Courage, and Commitment.” Yarbrough. “CS1 accepting his role as Leading Petty Officer helped him to succeed because he had no time to stay
N
PAGE 2• THE GUANTANAMO BAY GAZETTE
NS Guantanamo Bay Commanding Officer, Capt. J.R. Nettleton congratulates CS2 Solomon on his selection as Sailor of the Week.
■Job/Department: Gold Hill Galley Warehouse Supervisor ■Age: 26 ■Hometown: Cleveland, Ohio ■Hero: Mother ■Favorite Sports Team: OSU, CAVS, Browns ■Goal: To be sucessful in life ■Hobby: Basketball, Football, Boxing ■Favorite Book: Maniac Magee ■Greatest Accomplishment: Joining the Navy and graduating from the Naval Diving and Training Center ■Sailor of the Week Because: CS2 Solomon was nominated for his outstanding work as maintenance Petty Officer for Gold hill Galley. He was responsible for maintaining and conducting preventative maintenance on all of the galley equipment. His quick actions and response helped the galley maintain services when one of the major pumps became defective 15 minutes prior to opening the Galley, which would have interrupted approximately 3000 patrons for beverage service. In addition he also saved the facility approximately $1500 in trouble call services.
CS2 RAYMON SOLOMON
VOL. 71 • NO.47
COMMANDING OFFICER EXECUTIVE OFFICER COMMAND MASTER CHIEF
Guantanamo Bay Gazette
CAPT. JOHN NETTLETON CMDR. COLIN CASWELL CMDCM (SW) JEFFERY TIDWELL
PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICER GAZETTE EDITOR
NAVAL STATION GUANTANAMO BAY, CUBA
KELLY WIRFEL MCC(SW/AW) KEITH BRYSKA
The Guantanamo Bay Gazette is an authorized publication for members of the military services and their families stationed at U.S. Naval Station Guantanamo Bay. The contents do not necessarily reflect the official views of the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense, or the U.S. Navy, and do not imply endorsement thereof. The editorial content is prepared, edited and provided by the Public Affairs Office of U.S. Naval Station Guantanamo Bay. The Guantanamo Bay Gazette is printed by the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Document Services with a circulation of 900.
Stay Safe and Drive Sober to Spread Holiday Cheer
December 12, 2014• PAGE 3
LCDR Amanda Schaffeld, NC, USN, and HM1 Alesha Lee
U.S. Naval Hospital Guantanamo Bay
T
he Thanksgiving-Christmas holiday season is a time of joy and celebration, but because some people celebrate a little too much, it is also one of the most dangerous times on the road. Every day, almost 30 people in the United States die in motor vehicle accidents which involve an alcohol-impaired driver. In 2011, 760 people lost their lives as a result of drunk-driving-related crashes during December. Over the course of five years (2007 through 2011), a total of 4,169 people lost their lives in December in crashes that involved drivers with a BAC of 0.08 percent or higher. Drinking and driving do not go together. Alcohol impairs attentiveness, impairs one’s ability to make quick decisions on the road, react to changes in the environment, and execute specific maneuvers behind the wheel. Blood alcohol content (BAC) is the most commonly used definition of intoxication. So how does alcohol affect people who drive? • At a 0.02 percent BAC, people experience loss of judgment and a decline in visual function. • At 0.05 percent BAC, a person’s alertness is lowered and they have reduced coordination. • At 0.08 percent BAC, muscle coordination becomes poor and perception is impaired. • At 0.10 percent BAC, people demonstrate a clear deterioration of reaction time and control, and a person behind the wheel has reduced ability to maintain lane position and brake appropriately. • At 0.15 percent BAC, people experience substantial impairment in vehicle control and have extreme difficulty in processing necessary visual and auditory information. Among drivers with BAC levels of 0.08 percent or higher involved in fatal crashes in 2012, 32 percent, or one out of every three, were between the ages of 21 and 24; 27 percent were between the ages of 25 – 34; and 24 percent were between the ages of 35 and 44. LCDR Amanda Schaffeld, the U.S. Naval Hospital Guantanamo Bay’s drug and alcohol program advisor, encourages everyone to think what’s at stake when a person who is impaired gets behind the wheel of a vehicle. She reminds Sailors about the Navy’s “Keep What You’ve Earned Campaign.” With the slogan, ‘You’ve earned it; don’t waste it’, the campaign promotes responsible decisions. “Sailors accomplish a lot during their careers through hard work and dedication,” said Schaffeld. “Most of them have a great deal to lose by making poor choices regarding alcohol.” Give the gift of being a designated driver this holiday season. Save the ‘Gift of a Designated Driver’ card, and give it to individual friends and family members. Just clip it out of the paper, and it doesn’t
cost anything but a little time. Additional cards can be downloaded from http://www.public.navy.mil/bupersnpc/support/21st_Century_Sailor/nadap/campaign_ events/drinkresponsibly/Documents/Gift%20Card_ Holidays%202014.pdf Other local alternatives to drinking and driving include walking, or the base bus, which runs on a regular schedule and makes stops throughout the base. At a last resort, call SAFE RIDE at 84781 or 84913. If a person is stopped by base Security driving a personal vehicle here at Guantanamo Bay and their BAC registers 0.04 – 0.079 percent, they will be charged with Driving Under the Influence (DUI). If the BAC registers above 0.08 percent, they will be charged with Driving While Intoxicated (DWI). If a person is stopped while operating a government vehicle and their BAC registers 0.02 percent or above, they will be charged with a DUI. If a person is suspected of DUI/DWI, their driving privileges on base are immediately suspended for 12 months and their vehicle will be towed. Active duty service members face additional charges under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). Civilians face debarment from the base as well as other administrative action. Don’t be the one whose holiday becomes a tragedy this year. There is no safe way to drink and drive.
FCPOA Hosts Children’s Christmas Party MCC Keith Bryska Gazette Editor
Members of the First Class Petty Officer Association held the annual children’s Christmas party for residents of Naval Station (NS) Guantanamo Bay, Dec. 5. According to Personnel Specialist 1st Class Veronica Murray the party was a huge success and had more than 90 kids participate. “Traditionally we had only hosted this event for the Naval Station kids but this time we decided to include all the kids with no exception,” said Murray. “Our goal was to give back to the entire NS Guantanamo Bay community as thanks for all their support throughout the year.” There were several events for the kids to do that included making ginger bread houses, decorating cupcakes and building gingerbread men. “It was great seeing all the little ones out there enjoying the party and they were happy to have so many different things to do in addition to receiving
gifts from Santa,” said Murray. Fire Controlman 1st Class Nila Castillo believes that it’s important for the FCPOA to give back to the community especially in Guantanamo Bay. “With being in such an isolated duty station I feel it’s important to work together and support each other,” said Castillo. “The NS Guantanamo Bay community is always supporting our fundraisers and projects so there’s no better way than to say thank you than by giving back.” The children also enjoyed singing Christmas carols and a visit by Santa Claus that brought a gift to every child in attendance. “The look and smiles on the children’s faces throughout the whole event made it all worth it,” said Castillo. “Hearing from parents, days after the event that their kids are still talking about the party will put a smile on anyone’s face.”
PAGE 6• THE GUANTANAMO BAY GAZETTE
Chaplain’s Corner
Christmas, Freedom and Sensitive Subjects
LT Baron Miller
NS Guantanamo Bay Command Chaplain
his is the Advent season and Christmas is T right around the corner. During this time of anticipation there are many things I’m personally
excited about; Christmas (of course), the New Year, and the U2 concert my wife just scored us tickets for at Madison Square Garden next summer. But I’m sure not everyone is brimming with excitement—I’m sure some of us are in a rut and we long for things in our life to be different this Christmas season; we long to be free. As a Christian, I believe what the Bible says in Galatians chapter 5 that Jesus brings freedom. It is a total bummer to feel so enslaved by sin that we keep repeating the same patterns and no matter what we try, we find ourselves stuck in a sick cycle. During Christmas time when our culture assumes everyone is cheery and merry I know different; I know some of you reading this need help. Fortunately there is hope for you. You can always
come and talk to a Chaplain and whatever you are going through is totally confidential with us—that’s a guarantee. If you struggle with feelings of loneliness or drinking too much or an abusive relationship; whatever it is, we are here to serve you. Maybe you’re sick of living an isolated life, surrounded by people but feeling alone. If that’s you, I encourage you to come to the Chapel on Thursday the 18th at 1900 for our talk on “Touchy Subjects” by author Craig Gross and comedian David Dean. Part of Craig and David’s message is about living authentically and transparently and when you do that, you live free. Sure, David’s a comedian and Craig has a ministry to the porn addicted (he even attends porn conventions and has bibles that say, “Jesus loves porn stars”, visit xxxchurch.com for more on that) but ultimately, these guys want to help you live free from sin and shame. As Chaplains, we love you and desire the best for you this Advent season.
W.T. Sampson Principal Brian Perry and MWR Director Tara Culbertson presented W.T. Sampson teacher and Student to Student (S2S) sponsor Mrs. Lisa Vitrella with an award to recognize her outstanding efforts since taking over the S2S program, Dec. 8.
GTMO SHOPPER
MOVIES
75.00, Men’s Mongoose bike, rear tire slightly bent but does not inhibit riding 45.00, GE juicer never used 30.00, Please call 77271 leave message if no answer.
This 25x8’ pontoon boat is a very good platform for either fishing or E-mail classified ad submissions to P A O - C L A S S I F I E D A D S @ diving in the bay. Rebuilt 4 stroke U S N B G T M O . N A V Y . M I L 130HP Johnson OB motor. It comes If sent to any other e-mail, it may not be pubwith two new marine batteries, 20 lished. Submit your ad NLT noon Wednesdays gal fuel tank, hydraulic steering for that week’s Gazette. Ads are removed after two weeks. Re-submit the ad to re-publish. The system, a large covered deck, three Gazette staff and NS Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, full-length pontoons for stability. page. The Public Affairs Office has final editoCenter Console is in- stalled with a rial discretion on all content. Call MCC Keith fish finder, Marine-Band VHF Radio, Bryska at 4520 with your questions or concerns. Please keep ads to a minimum of 5 items. Navigational GPS and CD/ Radio Stereo System, all electronics work VEHICLES fine. Boat is located at Pier 33. If in1997 Ford Escort working ac and terested call 74100. radio. 102k mileage for sale FMI call MISC Tia @ 74764 (w) 77494 (h) Men’s Jeans and Pants, $5 to $10 1999 Volvo Station Wagon, silver with each. Please call 77113 tinted windows, new tires within the YARD SALE last year and tune up in DEC 14. A/C Yard sale at VL 727A. 0800 to 1000. needs repair. Just passed vehicle Childrens Clothing. No early birds. inspection and was registered in NOV 14. Vehicle is presently parked in public parking area going in to the Paola Point housing area. $2,500.00. If interested call 74100 and leave a message.”
The
scoop
ELECTRONICS Starband dish system for sale $450 call mark @ 75849 or email skilbert_1981@yahoo.com great for skype in your home 1. SONY BRAVIA KDL-40W600B 40 inch TV asking $350 or Best Offer, 2. BOSE SOLO TV Sound System asking $300 or Best Offer, 3. SONY BDP-S1200 Blu Ray player $50 or Best offer. All items are less than 9 months old. Call 84413
HOLIDAY FLIGHTS Do you plan on leaving the base over the holidays? If so, please be aware there are several changes to the dates the flights will be departing due to the holiday schedule. For more information please check out the base roller.
VOLUNTEER Are you passionate about helping others with finances? Would you like to learn about tax preparation and assist junior service members? Well you are in luck! GTMO’s Tax Assistance Center needs volunteers for the 2014 tax year. Requirements are as follows; you must be an E6 or above, your PRD must be later than June 2015, you must be able to complete online self-paced IRS certification training by Feb. 2015 and you must be able to commit 30 or more hours of volunteer work over the course of six months. Call 4692 for more information. PENGUIN PATCH W.T. Sampson elementary will be holding their Penguin Patch Party Dec. 12 from 1830 to 2030 in the elementary school gym. Dress in your pajamas and bring a blanket or sleeping bag and watch the animated movies: Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas and A Charlie Brown Christmas. This event is open to all W.T. Sampson Elementary students and Homeschool students.
December 12, 2014• PAGE 7
DOWNTOWN LYCEUM
FRIDAY 7 p.m.: Big Hero 6 9 p.m.:
Dec 12
PG
Interstellar PG13
SATURDAY Dec 13 7 p.m.: Exodus: Gods and Kings PG13
9:30 p.m.: Nightcrawler R
SUNDAY Dec 14 6:30 p.m.: Beyond the Lights PG13
8:30 p.m.: Dumb and Dumber To PG13
MONDAY 7 p.m.: St. Vincent
Dec 15
TUESDAY 7 p.m.: Ouija
Dec 16
WEDNESDAY 7 p.m.: John Wick
Dec 17
PG13
R
R
THURSDAY Dec 18 Horrible Bosses 7 p.m. R
CALL THE MOVIE HOTLINE @ 4880
Sex, Tech, and Social Media in a Touchscreen World
D-Link Wireless “N” Router w/install CD ($25), Please contract Steven @ 55352
A Candid Conversation for Adults, Parents, & Mature Teens
New Motorola W270 Cell Phone in the box with SIM card and Charger a $180.00 value for only $70.00. Email Tom at tfedaie@cableone.net
OUTDOOR REC. CMC Powerlift Transom Jack for Outboard Motor w/install instructions ($100), MARES minimini sten - Pneumatic Spear Gun w/ holster ($75), Please contract Steven @ 55352 Hawaiian sling 5’ $30. Call 74148, leave msg if not answer Charcoal grill smoker/cooker 35.00, Kingsford dome grill small dent on top with side table and cover 50.00, Glass top bar (very good condition) with 3 chairs (good condition)
THURSDAY DEC. 18, 2014 7:00 PM NAVSTA CHAPEL Childcare Available
FMI: 2323 Chaplains Office
Student to Student Trainers Visit NS Guantanamo Bay Kelly Wirfel
Public Affairs Officer
aval Station (NS) Guantanamo Bay in partnership N with W.T. Sampson and Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) sponsored two trainers from Military
Child Education Coalition (MCEC), Dec. 8 to Dec. 15. The trainers, Julie Coffey and Debra Longley provided training to more than 20 W.T. Sampson Middle and High School students on how to run a successful Student to Student (S2S) program. The MCEC Student 2 Student (S2S) program trains civilian and military-connected high school students to establish and sustain peer-based programs in their schools to support mobile children as they transition to and from the school. “Students relate best to other students and when they transition in and out of schools the best way to teach another student about his or her community is from other students,” said Longley. “That is what we are here to do. Train these students on how to be the best sponsors possible.” During the training Coffey and Longley stressed the importance of establishing immediate peer credibility, building positive peer relationships and sharing valued
information about the school and community with incoming students. “I believe that this training not only teaches the student sponsors about supporting the new student but also teaches them about leadership which will translate into their adult life,” said Coffey. The training was mainly coordinated by Mr. Bill Mittenzwey, NS Guantanamo Bay School Liaison Officer. “We have been working on the coordination and logistics for this training for over a year but it has been well worth it,” said Mittenzwey. “This program and training truly fits in the line with Captain Nettleton’s (NS Guantanamo Bay Commanding Officer) priorities who also realizes that the transition for these students is key.” According to Coffey and Longley the training went extremely well. “I have worked for MCEC since they were established in the 90’s and this is truly the best group of students I have ever trained,” said Coffey. “They are extremely mature and empathic students which is what it takes to be a good sponsor.”
Mrs. Julie Coffey, Military Child Education Coalition trainer conducts an exercise with W.T. Sampson High School students during Student to Student training, Dec. 11.
December 12, 2014• PAGE 7