November 18, 2016• VOL. 73 • NO. 29• NAVY.MIL/LOCAL/GUANTANAMO • FACEBOOK.COM/NSGuantanamoBay
NAVAL STATION GUANTANAMO BAY, CUBA • PSC 1005 BOX 25 • FPO, AE 09593 • 757-458-4520
Zumwalt Zooms Through GTMO
The USS Zumwalt (DDG 1000) pulls into the pier to refuel at Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, November 15. (Photo by PO2 John Wagner) USS Zumwalt (DDG 1000) Public Affairs
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he Navy’s newest and most technologically advanced warship, USS Zumwalt (DDG 1000) was commissioned into active service Saturday, Oct. 15, at North Locust Point in Baltimore. Zumwalt, the lead ship of a class of next-generation multi-mission destroyers, features a state-of-the-art electric propulsion system, wavepiercing tumblehome hull, stealth design, and the latest warfighting technology and weaponry available. Secretary of the Navy, the Hon. Ray Mabus, delivered the ceremony’s principal address. “This ship is an example of a larger initiative to increase operational stability and give the U.S. a strategic advantage,” said Mabus. “Our Navy and our Marine Corps, uniquely, provide presence - around the globe, around the clock - ensuring stability, reassuring allies, deterring adversaries, and providing the nation’s leaders with options in times of crisis.” The ship’s co-sponsors, Ann Zumwalt and Mouzetta Zumwalt-Weathers, are daughters of former Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Elmo R. Zumwalt, Jr., after whom the ship is named. The sisters were an integral part of the ceremony, giving the order to “man our ship and bring her to life,” in keeping with naval tradition. The Zumwalt-class destroyer will be capable of performing a range of deterrence, power projection, sea control, and command and control missions while allowing the Navy to evolve with new systems and missions. It does all of this while maintaining its stealth - making this visually imposing ship difficult to find whether close to the shore or far out to sea.
“Today’s ceremony marked the culmination of over three years of dedication and hard work by some of the finest Sailors I have had the pleasure to lead,” said Capt. James A. Kirk, Commanding Officer of Zumwalt. “The only thing more impressive than the capabilities of the ship are the capabilities of its fine crew. Zumwalt will challenge adversaries and their way of thinking about how we employ our forces, providing an asymmetric advantage. Working with Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, littoral combat ships, and amphibious ships to form adaptive force packages, Zumwalt-class destroyers will use its computing capabilities to make these groups more lethal through increased range, deception, computer integration, and data analysis from various platforms. With its stealth, size, power, and advanced combat systems, this warship will serve as a centerpiece for deterrence and stability in the maritime environment. In addition to its size, the Zumwalt class will be the first Navy warships to utilize an integrated power system that will produce enough power to run current systems, as well as the power required for future weapons, computing, and sensor systems. Zumwalt generates approximately 78 megawatts of power, almost as much as a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier. This means the ship can operate all of its systems and still generate enough electricity to power a small town, which provides the extra capacity to accommodate future weapons and computing systems. For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter.com/usnavy. For more news from USS Zumwalt (DDG 1000), visit www.navy.mil/local/DDG1000/.
PAGE 2• THE GUANTANAMO BAY GAZETTE
NS Guantanamo Bay Executive Officer, Cmdr. Dennis Mojica congratulates PO2 Joseph Deluca, left, on his selection as Sailor of the Week, Nov. 8-14, and PO2 Joel Shugars, right, on his selection as Sailor of Week, Nov. 15- 21.
PO2 JOSEPH DELUCA
■Job/Department: Air Operations ■Age: 29 ■Hometown: Orlando, FL ■Sports Team: Green Bay Packers ■TV Show: Game of Thrones ■Hobby: Spear gunning, guitar, working out ■Greatest Passion: Music and Family ■Quote: “Always strive to be better than who you were yesterday.” ■Sailor of the Week Because: Petty Officer Deluca was
instrumental in managing the close-out of Fiscal Year 16 funding for Air Operations OPTAR of $923,000 through 10 different lines of accounting in support of the Calibration Lab, Ground Electronics, three C-12 aircraft and the Air Terminal; and utilizing exceptional foresight pushed Fiscal Year 17 funding through Region ensuring continuous operations of the Air Terminal and Calibration Lab. He was essential in the timely ordering and tracking of CASREP parts required for Wind Measuring System at Air Terminal used for takeoff and landing information. Additionally, as the Command’s Assistant Voting Assistance Officer he ensured that Naval Station residents understood how to vote absentee and set-up a hotline for those members to reach a representative state-side for any further assistance in preparation for the upcoming Presidential election. VOL. 73 • NO. 29
COMMANDING OFFICER EXECUTIVE OFFICER COMMAND MASTER CHIEF
PO2 JOEL SHUGARS
■Job/Department: Security ■Age: 24 ■Hometown: Satellite Beach, FL ■Hero: Mark Wahlberg ■Musician: Jimmy Eat World ■Hobby: Spending time with family ■Book: Of Mice and Men ■Currently working on: Small Craft Insignia ■Sailor of the Week Because: On Nov. 3 PO2 Shugars was conducting routine patrols when he and his crew member noticed what appeared to be a vessel without navigational lights. While approaching the vessel it was recognized that the vessel was foreign and under distress. After taking swift action to secure the vessel, Shugars then called for assistance to escort the distressed vessel and its crew. The crew was then turned over to medical to be treated for hypothermia and dehydration. Without PO2 Shugars quick and decisive actions, the crew of the distressed boat could have suffered loss of life. His thorough knowledge of the Harbor Patrol Unit’s pre-planned responses and his ability to make tactical decisions in a time-critical situation is a testament to his ability and the confidence his chain of command has in him.
Guantanamo Bay Gazette
CAPT. DAVID CULPEPPER CMDR. DENNIS MOJICA CMDCM (SW/AW) THOMAS MACE
PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICER PHOTOJOURNALIST EDITOR/LAYOUT
NAVAL STATION GUANTANAMO BAY, CUBA
MS. JULIE ANN RIPLEY PO2 JOHN WAGNER SGT NATASHA PRICE, U. S. ARMY
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 535.
November 18, 2016• PAGE 3
Naval Station Hospital Guantanamo Bay Doctor Named
“Outstanding Young Pediatrician of the Year” Joycelyn Biggs Naval Hospital Public Affairs Journalist
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aval Hospital Guantanamo Bay pediatrician LT (Dr.) Charles ‘Chase’ Groomes has been selected as the “Outstanding Young Pediatrician of the Year” by American Academy of Pediatrics Uniformed Services East Chapter. Groomes was recognized recently during the AAP National Conference and Exhibition in San Francisco, Ca. Groomes admitted to being surprised. “I don’t feel deserving of this honor, but I am very flattered to have been chosen,” he said. Jennifer Schmidt parent to a couple of Groomes’ patients said she was not at all surprised with the news. Her first encounter with him was a simple sport physical for her older son. “If Dr. Groomes had completed the physical and sent me on my way, he would have done what I expected,” Shcmidt said. “But he noticed something in my son’s medical record that happened five years prior.” According to Schmidt, a previous physician dismissed the issue and she never received a satisfactory diagnosis. Groomes took it upon himself to do some research. He was able to explain exactly what happened. “Dr. Groomes spoke in layman’s terms and even drew pictures to help me understand” she said. “He is phenomenal and I trust him completely.” He also has the ability to reassure me as a parent, she continued. My youngest son had an accident and I was so
filled with guilty, I thought I was a horrible parent. His mannerism and demeanor was so pleasant; it helped to calm me down. “Dr. Groomes has provided optimal care for my children and I could not be more pleased,” she continued. “As a mom, of course I worry, but I feel as though he lifted a dark cloud from me concerning my children’s healthcare.” LCDR Jim Ripple, primary clinic department head, NHGB nominated Groomes for the award, saying he was the perfect candidate for the title. “He is a spectacular pediatrician, If there is any medical problem with any child on the base, he is the guy we call,” Ripple said. “He embodies a strong professional when it comes to pediatrics.” According to Ripple, Groomes finished his residency about a year ago. “To demonstrate the level of skill he has acquired in such a short amount of time is very impressive,” he said. Groomes offers his expertise to the family advocacy center, the school system and other agencies in the community. Dr. Groomes received his medical degree from Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia Pa. his undergraduate degree from College of William and Mary, Williamsburg Va.
Marine Corps
PO2 John Wagner Photojournalist
arines have been deployed to Naval M Station Guantanamo Bay (NSGB) for 111 years starting in August of 1905 as
Marine Guard, NSGB; and were re-designated as Marine Corps Security Force Company (MCSFCO) in September of 2000 NSGB community members celebrated the 241st Birthday of the Marine Corps Nov. 12th at the Morale, Welfare & Recreation Windjammer ballroom. The youngest Marine at this year’s ball, Lance Cpl. Ethan Brady, went to boot camp July 6, 2015. “I don’t feel special for being selected, it’s just age. I feel like I’m on par with all my brothers here,” Brady said. “The Corp has given me so much and I will give them everything I have.”
This year’s guest speaker, Navy Chaplain Lt. David Wise, former Marine serving from 19811987, challenged the Marines and other guests to live up to the ideals of the Corps. “I love and appreciate the emphasis today that the military puts on ethics. It is so clear honor, courage, and commitment with integrity are weaved into the Marine Corps values that we have,” said Wise. “I see that I and applaud it. I love seeing the clear intentional emphasis on making sure there are no cracks in our ethical foundation as military members. The mission of the young Marines of MCSFCO is very important they; stand on a fence-line and ensure the safety of the NSGB community. “I’m blessed that I get to visit them on the fence,” said Wise. “As an old Marine to walk
241st Birthday and talk to these young Marines there is no better feeling. I’m living large. I get to see the same fire in their eyes that I had when I was a young Marine.” Marines at NSGB are continually working long hours, standing watch and training for upcoming assignments. “Its kind of exciting for me. I’ve always heard about GTMO,” said Brady. “I’m pretty excited about being able to guard the fence line, doing my duty and training. I will go back to Virginia after my deployment here to continue my training and then off to Spain for our second deployment.” Not only was the youngest Marine honored with the first piece of cake, but the oldest Marine on the installation was also honored, Marine Capt.
Caleb Rench, assigned to NSGB. While young in his own right having been in the Marine Corp for only eight years, he recognizes the tradition and was happy to represent the Corp. “At first I was questioning whether they had it right, and then I had to realize where I was at and how much of an honor it is,” said Rench. “Really the odds of me being the oldest Marine again and being able to take part in that tradition is probably not going to happen.” During his remarks, Wise encouraged the Marines to look after their heritage. “Take care of the legacy that you have been handed. Pay it forward. Be mindful of the tremendous legacy that you are part of,” said Wise. “Do not tarnish this beautiful legacy called the United States Marine Corps.”
PAGE 6• THE GUANTANAMO BAY GAZETTE
MOVIES
THE CLASSIFIEDS
HOLIDAY SCHEDULE
To place an ad please send an e-mail to PAO@GTMO.NAVY.MIL
The
Scoop
MAILING OLYMPIC TRIATHLON
Nov. 25 recommended date to mail via USPS ground. Dec. 2 recommended date to mail via USPS Priority. Dec 20. recommended date to mail via USPS First-Class. Dates have been adjusted due to flight schedule. Call 2156 for more info.
NSGB BOY SCOUT TROOP Meets every Wednesday at 6:30 FIRE DEPARTMENT BALL p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Scout Hut. It will be held Nov. 19 at 5:30 p.m. at Welcome to all boys 11-18. For the Windjammer Ballroom. It is formal more info email gtmotroop435@ attire and tickets are $20. Contact gmail.com. 4222 for more information.
Come out and compete Nov. 19. Check-in at 6:00 a.m. at the Downtown Lyceum. The Triathlon will begin at 6:30 a.m. at Ferry Landing. Sign up at Denich Gym for more details.
MUSIC PERFORMANCE
DOWNTOWN LYCEUM
FRIDAY 7 p.m.:
Levi Stephens will be performing live at the Tiki Bar Nov. 19 starting at 8:30 p.m. 9 p.m.:
80’S NIGHT PARTY
9:30 p.m.:
CONTACT INFORMATION:
NAVSTA:
NAVAL HOSPITAL:
Jamie Yeich Carrie McCormick
TC Bacon
Kendra Keesey E-mail: ombudsmannsgb@gmail.com Phone: 84792
E-mail: Ombudsman.usnh.gtmo@gmail.com Phone: 55379
Fleet and Family Support Center
NOV 18
Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them PG13
Inferno PG13
SATURDAY
Come out in your 80’s attire for a 7 p.m.: fun night at the Tiki Bar Nov. 26 starting at 7:00 p.m.
OMBUDSMAN
November 18, 2016• PAGE 7
SUNDAY 6:30 p.m.:
NOV 19
Tyler Perry’s Boo! A Madea Halloween PG13
The Birth of a Nation R
NOV 20
Miss Peregrine’s Home For Peculiar Children PG13
MONDAY NOV 21 Masterminds 7 p.m.: PG13
UPCOMING CLASSES
TUESDAY NOV 22 The Accountant 7 p.m.:
PAYING FOR COLLEGE: Nov. 21, 1100-1230 at FFSC. Provides information on sources of funding for higher education, focusing on financial aid resources, college savings plans and tax incentives. Information on federal financial aid is available at www.fafsa.ed.gov and www.studentaid.ed.gov.
WEDNESDAY NOV 23 Deepwater Horizon 7 p.m.:
NAVIGATING FEDERAL EMPLOYMENT: Nov. 21, 1400-1600 at FFSC. Come to this class to learn how to navigate the federal job search. Learn the keys to composing an effective federal resume that is tailored to a specific job description.
9:00 p.m.:
COMMUNICATION SKILLS: Nov. 22, 0800-1000 at FFSC. This class allows people to enhance communication skills to strengthen relationships at home and at work by practicing skills that build effective two-way communication.
THURSDAY Trolls 7 p.m.:
RESUME BASICS: Nov. 29, 1300-1500 at FFSC. Not sure where to start? Need a brief refresher on resumes? This class provides an overview of civilian and federal resume formats. This workshop will help you construct a resume that gets you noticed! Includes information on writing your objective, accomplishment statements, and knowing the focus of each resume format. To register or for more information please call 4141 or 4153. Hours of Operation are: Mon-Fri., 0730-1630.
R
PG13
The Birth of a Nation R
NOV 24
PG
CALL THE MOVIE HOTLINE @ 4880
Navy Celebrates 2016 American Indian, Alaska Native Heritage Month Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs Navy.mil
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he Navy joins the nation in celebrating American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage throughout the month of November. This year’s theme, “Serving our Nations,” represents American Indians and Alaska Natives, both civilian and military, as U.S. citizens and citizens of their tribes. Today, National American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month is celebrated to recognize the intertribal cultures of Native Americans and to inform the public of the rich heritage, history, and traditions of American Indian and Alaska Native peoples. More than 9,000 Sailors and 2,000 civilians of American Indian and Alaska Native heritage serve in the Navy. According to the U.S. Department of Interior’s Bureau of Indian Affairs, 565 federally-recognized American Indian tribes and Alaska Natives reside in the United States, composed of nearly 4.5 million American Indians and Alaska Natives, or 1.5 percent of the nation’s population. American Indians and Alaskan Natives have served honorably in the United States Navy for more than 200 years. During the 20th century, three Sailors of American Indian heritage received the Medal of Honor -- including Navy Cmdr. Ernest E. Evans, of Cherokee and Creek ancestry, who was awarded the medal posthumously for his actions during the Battle of Leyte Gulf while commanding destroyer USS Johnston (DD 557) Oct. 25, 1944. Petty Officer 1st Class James Elliot Williams, a South Carolina Cherokee,
received the Medal of Honor for heroic actions as a river patrol boat commander in South Vietnam’s Mekong Delta Oct. 31, 1966. He is the most decorated enlisted Sailor in Navy history. In December 2004, guided-missile destroyer USS James E. Williams (DDG 95) was commissioned and named after Williams. Lt. Michael Edwin Thorton, a South Carolina Cherokee, received the Medal of Honor for his heroic action as a petty officer second class SEAL in the Mekong Delta Oct. 31, 1972. Patriots of American Indian and Alaskan Native heritage continue to build legacies of freedom and diversity. Serving today, Rear Adm. Jeffrey Trussler, an Oklahoma Cherokee, was commissioned at the Officer Candidate School in Newport, Rhode Island, and qualified as a submarine officer. He was a recipient of the Naval Submarine League’s Rear Adm. Jack Darby Award for Inspirational Leadership and Excellence in Command for 2006, and as a member of the Cherokee Nation was the American Indian Science and Engineering Society Executive Excellence award winner for 2008. For more information about American Indians and Alaska Natives, visit https:// www.public.navy.mil/BUPERS-NPC/SUPPORT/21ST_CENTURY_SAILOR/ DIVERSITY/Pages/DiversityObservances.aspx or the Naval History and Heritage command site, http://www.history.navy.mil/browse-by-topic/diversity/americanindians.html.