Coastal Compass Naval Surface Warfare Center panama City Division
NO. 4 VOL. 2
APRIL 2016
Cyber Security Cyber Hygiene Navy Calls All Hands for Increased Awareness of Cyber Security
Technical Center of Excellence for Littoral Warfare & Coastal Defense
View from the Bridge By Commanding Officer Capt. Phillip Dawson III
Good day. I want to thank everyone who supported the Cybersecurity Inspection (CSI) Technical Assist Visit last month. We confirmed the progress to date, as well as areas that we need to work on before the final CSI in June. The CSI in June is an all hands event, not just for IT or the software and computer ‘geeks.’ Every day the Navy is in an active cybersecurity fight against witting foes that are technologically sophisticated and well-funded. Regrettably, today’s foreign adversaries seldom have to resort to expensive or sophisticated tailored exploits to compromise the Navy’s network – they just wait for the DoN user or systems administrator to slip up. That is why everyone needs to practice good cyber hygiene. The cyber threat reaches beyond traditional IT networks to systems that affect nearly every aspect of the Navy’s mission. Machinery control, weapons, and navigation systems may be vulnerable, as well as the systems and networks supporting human resources, financial management, and logistics business processes. The configuration of our combat and machinery control systems are strictly controlled so operators cannot change it because unauthorized modifications could jeopardize these systems. Navy networks may be easier to modify, but the principle that applies to weapons systems also applies to the network: Do not make unauthorized changes to it. Ev-
Page 2
ery person that users a computer, smartphone, tablet or other mobile electronic device must be familiar with protecting data under their control. Operators are trained before being allowed to operate our complexsystems. Training needed to use the Navy’s networks is much less detailed but the concept is the same - operators need to follow the principles covered in the training required for network access. Users following Navy computer policy and best practices as described in the October 29 article “What All Hands Need to Do to Protect Against Cyber Threats” will also help defend our networks: • Always verify the source of emails and the links in emails. • Do not open suspicious links in emails, tweets, posts, messages or suspicious attachments. • Don’t connect unauthorized devices to Navy networks. • Remove your CAC or lock your computer when not using it. • Safeguard your personally identifiable information (PII) so adversaries can’t use this information to trick you into surrendering data they need to breach our networks and systems. • Don’t use peer-to-peer file sharing programs. • Stay on known and good websites. • Don’t use Navy systems in unauthorized ways. Like weapons systems, unsafe actions on the network, like loading unauthorized software or plugging a thumb drive into a computer, should be promptly reported to keep malicious software from compromising the Navy’s networks and systems. Because Navy systems are so intercon-
nected, a successful cyber-intrusion anywhere in the Navy increases the risk that adversaries can move to other targets on the network. A mistake by one system operator can put the entire Navy at risk. While many of the cyber security practices may seem cumbersome and inefficient, such as moving CAC or tokens between systems, the additional protection that a physical, vice electronic, security measure provides has been determined to be worth any loss in time or efficiency. Remember, the potential consequences include rebuilding a network or losing PII or intellectual property involving billions of dollars of research and development. The parallels between machinery control or combat systems and the network apply to leaders and the cyber workforce, too. Like those who maintain weapons systems, the cyber workforce should be welltrained, tested, and required to maintain the right level of proficiency. Operating procedures should be well-documented, current, and enforced. Cyber specialists should also strictly comply with directives and policies and report compliance. Leaders are responsible for the readiness of their machinery and combat systems. Likewise, they are also responsible for the readiness of the Navy’s systems and networks. Adhering to cybersecurity policies, directives, and best practices is commanders’ business and requires an All Hands approach to protect the Navy and the mission. Your commitment to cybersecurity will protect the Navy and help us win the cyber fight. Remember every time you connect to or operate a Navy network or system, you are in the cyber battlespace. Think cybersecurity before you act. Keep Charging! ♦
Coastal Compass - April 2016
PCD Scientist Delivers DoN Environmental Restoration Training Dr. Angle provided a presentation during the munitions response section of the conference titled “Using Sensors to Survey Underwater Munitions PANAMA CITY, Florida – A Naval Surface WarSites.” During his presentation, Angle presented fare Center Panama City Division (NSWC PCD) an overview of advanced MCM technology and scientist provided subject matter expertise on the how it can benefit the UXO MRP. According to utilization of advanced underwater mine counterAngle, the event was beneficial to individuals tied measure (MCM) technology in the unexploded to the environmental restoration world as it showordinance (UXO) Munitions Response Program cases advanced technologies currently used and in (MRP) during the 2016 Department of the Navy development by the U.S. Navy and are otherwise (DoN) Environmental Restoration training on Feb. unavailable in the commercial sector. The event 25, 2016 at the Expeditionary Warfare Center in brought everyone together in order to foster relaPort Hueneme, California. tionships and better disseminate the latest informaThe specific training, sponsored by Naval Fation available. Dr. Jesse Angle cilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC), spoke to “It is essential for these individuals to attend the MCM technologies that could be used as alternative applications, event because their fields are constantly evolving,” said Angle. was targeted for Remedial Project Managers (RPM) and other en- “Those working these types of problems need to stay up-to-date vironmental professionals. with the most recent developments and changes to technology and RPM’s and other NAVFAC staff were exposed to a wide array policy.” of upcoming technology, programmatic and bureaucratic changes, Angle described the event as “a fantastic opportunity to meet, case studies detailing successes, etc. Among the individuals who learn and swap ideas.” Being the first event of this kind in sevattended the event, Angle was one who exchanged ideas and dis- eral years, this year’s training was of greater importance due to cussed future collaboration among researchers and Fleet users. the time lag since the last meeting because of travel requirements “For the purpose of surveying underwater UXO sites, we have imposed by sequestration. By having the event, employees gain access to the best technology and personnel anywhere in the world, access to the most up to date information concerning cutting edge and my presentation focused on these capabilities that we can le- technologies and innovations. verage that many of the RPM’s may not have been aware of,” AnIn addition to sharing his knowledge at large conventions such gle said. “There were several conversations during and after my as this, Angle is frequently called on to brief material during intertalk about the potential for collaborative work on several new sites nal colloquia, for visiting dignitaries at NSWC PCD, at Office of that we’re not currently engaged in, thereby continuing the trend Naval Research (ONR) sponsored events and various internationof providing cutting edge technology to those in need while also al venues. Angle is hopeful that the training event will continue feeding information back to the technology developers about how throughout the years to encourage innovative collaborations and their systems work in new and challenging environments.” learning of the NAVFAC community. ♦ By Katherine Mapp, NSWC PCD Office of Congressional and Public Affairs
Bravo Zulu to Colleague Pete Hamilton Members of the Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division (NSWC PCD) Diversity Council gathered to recognize colleague, Pete Hamilton, for his leadership during his time on the council as the Special Emphasis Program Manager aboard NSWC PCD on March 11, 2016. Hamilton was dedicated to enhancing workforce diversity and human relations awareness which placed an indelible stamp on NSWC PCD’s organizational success. Pictured from left to right: Christina Pate, Bobby Hopp, Pete Hamilton, Mike Rowe, Loc Pham, Pam Mittlesteadt and Dr. Wendell Saintval. (Photo by Katherine Mapp, NSWC PCD/RELEASED)
Coastal Compass - April 2016
Women’s History Month Panel Discussion Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division (NSWC PCD) Branch Head Karen Borel speaks about how mentoring has shaped her career at the first annual Women’s History Month celebration panel discussion themed “Working to Form a More Perfect Union: Honoring Women in Public Service and Government” at the Long Glass Conference Center on March 16, 2016 aboard Naval Support Activity Panama City. (Photo by Ron Newsome, NSWC PCD/RELEASED)
Page 3
NSWC PCD Engineer Eric Pierce to Receive DoN T&E Award objectives in terms of project timeliness, cost effectiveness and in its potential impact to U.S. Navy concept of operations.” During testing, Bond said Pierce demonPANAMA CITY, Fla. – A Naval Surface Warstrated effective leadership and engineering fare Center Panama City Division (NSWC expertise. He also noted Pierce’s exceptional PCD) human factors engineer will be awarded leadership of a multi-disciplinary team, tireless the Department of the Navy (DoN) Small Proefforts, innovative collaboration and problem gram Outstanding Tester Award for his excepsolving and delivered a deeper understanding of tional Test and Evaluation (T&E) execution and ways in which the U.S. Navy can support sea support for a DoN program on April 20, 2016 at based operations. the Pentagon in Washington, D.C. To qualify for this Navy award, Pierce Eric Pierce is a certified test director at demonstrated a level of proficiency and masNSWC PCD, a Navy research, development, tery in the field of T&E. DoN Small Program test and evaluation center of innovation. He is Outstanding Tester Award recipients must also also a founding member of the NSWC PCD Hucontribute significantly by taking on leadership man Systems Integration Team. duties and providing innovative insights to supPierce’s career prepared him for this prestiEric Pierce port timely T&E and/or certification of systems gious technical award. During his commitment over a 10-year span, Pierce helped to develop the T&E methods for warfighter use. Furthermore, the nominee’s efforts must result and standards used by the U.S. Navy to assess the effects of craft in significant achievements addressing requirements, T&E best motion on human performance and impact injury. Pierce earned practices and improvement initiatives resulting in an executable this award specifically for his work as the Principal Investigator and affordable T&E program. This prestigious award is reserved for the Effect of High Deck Accelerations on Surgical Tasks test, for T&E workforce members who have dedicated the year to suin support of the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations (OPNAV) perior achievement. This is the second time a NSWC PCD awardee has received a N81 Assessments Division. Previously, in support of the Office of Naval Research (ONR), Pierce studied the ability of U.S. Navy prominent T&E award from the DoN. In 2014, Bond nominated surgeons and independent duty corpsmen to perform basic life and NSWC PCD engineer, Amanda Bobe, who was awarded the DoN Aspiring Tester Award for her excellence and dedication to the limb saving procedures aboard small, fast moving ships. In this, his most recent accomplishment, Pierce designed and U.S. Navy’s MK 18 program. ♦ carried out a study that included six surgical teams, comprised of medical professionals, who performed 144 simulated operations under a range of sea state conditions. After developing a test protocol, Pierce carried out his innovative plan by assembling, mentoring and leading a multi-disciplinary team that included human factors, biomedical, software, systems and electrical engineers as well as surgical subject matter experts. Pierce also partnered with Rocky Vista University School of Medicine, a special operations medical training facility and a movie special effects company to acquire and modify synthetic humans with which to perform the operations. By collaborating with various organizations, Pierce was able to execute the study at a significant cost savings to the sponsor. According to NSWC PCD’s T&E and Prototype Fabrication Division Head Tony Bond, Pierce’s test represents a significant technical contribution to the U.S. Navy. Bond nominated Pierce for this U.S. Navy award. “His validation of life and limb saving medical procedures under high sea state conditions opens the door to new sea basing concepts and flexibility in humanitarian support,” said Bond. “Pierce’s contribution will likely result in timelier treatment of Improvised Explosive Device blast injuries.” Bond also stated throughout Pierce’s test preparation, he demonstrated eagerness and exceeded expectations in the field of T&E. “Pierce went above and beyond the normal duties of a test engineer,” Bond said. “He developed a statistically powerful design of experimentation that is innovative and exceeded his sponsor’s By Katherine Mapp, NSWC PCD Office of Congressional and Public Affairs
Page 4
Coastal Compass - April 2016
Inside This Edition View from the Bridge.......................................2 Environmental Restoration Training...............3 Bravo Zulu to Pete Hamilton..........................3 Women’s History Panel Discussion...............3 Pierce Receives DoN T&E Award.................4 SAAPM: Know your part. Do your part..........5 Navy Advises Precaution wtih Internet..........6 Sun Rises Over LCAC 91...............................7 HR: Award Goes To.........................................8 Sailors Prepare for 2016 RIMPAC at PCD...9 Navy Chief Petty Officers’ 123 Birthday......10 MAC Celebrates 70th Anniversary..............10 PCD CO signs SAAPM Proclamation.........11 CNO Announces Five SAAPM Initiatives....12 Command Reenlistment Congratulations...12 Command Stages XO Birthday Surprise....12 New Horizon’s Learning Center Visit...........13 The State of the NAVSEA Workforce..........14
Navy Announces SAAPM 2016 Theme: “Eliminate Sexual Assault: Know your part. Do your part” From Chief of Naval Personnel Public
WASHINGTON (NNS) — Navy leaders announced March 30, the 2016 Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month (SAAPM) theme of “Eliminate Sexual Assault: Know your part. Do your part.” The April awareness month is designed to build momentum for year-round efforts to eliminate the crime of sexual assault, while making sure all Sailors are treated with dignity and respect. “By sharing stories, ideas, and the resources needed to build awareness, we hope every command and every Sailor takes away something meaningful from this month,” said Rear Adm. Ann Burkhardt, director, 21st Century Sailor Office. “Leaders who feel empowered to make a difference and encourage their Sailors to do the same, are the critical link to ensure we end this crime across the fleet.” Earlier this year, Chief of Naval Operations Adm. John Richardson, announced five initiatives to help “end the scourge of sexual assault” in our Navy. “Eliminating sexual assault requires more than words, zero tolerance requires an all-hands effort,” he said. CNO’s five initiatives include: • 1) A Shipmate is not a “bystander.” If you see something wrong, do something right. • 2) Establish counselors within the
Fleet and Family Support Centers as a resource for victim support. • 3) Improve our personnel management practices and procedures, following a sexual assault experience, to ensure our Sailors are put in the best position possible to succeed. • 4) Continue our efforts to educate our Sailors and reduce alcohol abuse in the Navy, particularly binge drinking. • 5) Better utilize technology to remove cultural barriers and stigma associated with reporting a sexual assault or seeking advice and counsel. In addition to asking Sailors to learn, discuss and think about sexual assault prevention, commands are encouraged to organize events in April to highlight the awareness and prevention of sexual assaults. Information, references, and resources can be found online at www.sapr.navy.mil. The goal of the command events and information sharing is in keeping with the month’s theme of “Know your part, Do your part,” as Sailors can use knowledge and then action that will help eliminate sexual assault in the ranks. The SAAPM 2016 Toolkit can be used to determine some of the best ways to observe the awareness month. The website also includes resources for victims of sexual assault to reach out and get help. For more information, go to http://www. sapr.navy.mil and click on SAAPM 2016. ♦
Sexual Assault Awareness An informational poster about sexual assault awareness month. Throughout the month of April, commands are encouraged to organize activities to raise awareness of sexual assault using the theme, “Hurts One, Affects All. Prevention of Sexual Assault is Everyone’s Duty.” Join the conversation on social media and help raise awareness using #SAAM. (U.S. Navy photo illustration by Alvin Quiambao/Released)
Coastal Compass - April 2016
Page 5
Navy Advises All Hands: Use Cyber Security Precaution with Internet By Dan Broadstreet, NSWC PCD Office of Congressional and Public Affairs
PANAMA CITY, Florida — A new area in warfare is rising to the top of the U.S. Navy’s concerns, most notably that of cyber-attacks via the Internet. According to Commander of the U.S. Cyber Command, Director of the National Security Agency, and Chief of the Central Security Service Adm. Michael Rogers gave numerous statements during a budget hearing for U.S. Cyber Command, March 16, 2016 on how prolific cyber-attacks are becoming. Cyber security is a very high-priority for everyone associated with the U.S. Navy. “Look at the world around you,” Rogers said during the hearing. “This is not a mission set that we are going to ‘efficiency our way out of… The investments that we are making in cyber reflect the nature of the world we’re dealing with.” (Federal Times, Aaron Boyd, March 17, 2016) According to Federal News Radio correspondent David Thornton, Rogers said it was important for the Navy to prepare employees on how to counter cyber-attacks because vulnerabilities begin with the workforce. “‘Rogers said that no matter what investments and defensive structures he has in place, the actions of an individual user who clicks on the wrong link at the wrong time can make it very difficult to bring those defenses to bear,’” reported Thornton. (Federal News Radio, David Thornton, March 17, 2016) Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division (NSWC PCD) Command Information Officer Scott Dorsch supports Rogers’ concerns. “The number one threat? It’s the unintentional insider,” said Dorsch. “A federal employee who doesn’t retain enough of their Cyber Security training, for example, forgets to screen their emails properly for suspicious-looking traffic, opens one up and allows a portal for hackers to enter the Department of Defense (DoD) network, which is a perfect example of spear phishing.” Dorsch described spear phishing as fraudulent email that targets particular groups of people with similar characteristics, such as their place of employment – like the DoD. “These are not totally random emails sent out to recipients, but are usually initiated by specific perpetrators seeking information from trade industries and the U.S. military,” said Dorsch. Another area Dorsch prescribed vigilance and caution, is with users carelessly surfing the Internet. “NSWC PCD is a research facility. So naturally, our researchers are going to surf the Internet for information to help with projects. This applies to both the work environment as well as the home. Using search engines such as Google, will provide the user with millions of opportunities to select sites that are compromised by hackers.” said Dorsch. Dorsch said individual users should remember that the Internet is flat. “There are no world boundaries associated with the internet,
Page 6
so when you perform a search, you are coming into contact with web sites from many countries,” said Dorsch. “And, many of these web sites are designed to direct you into unknown locations, they allow you to view their pages, look at potentially interesting information and then they open a connection. Once you do, your computer has been compromised and the hackers are inside.” Dorsch described today’s cyber threats as extremely sophisticated requiring the U.S. to implement new protection strategies. Explaining today’s precautions, he said before anyone puts a computer on a network, the device must have all anti-virus software installed, patches updated and any other security measures in place before it ever touches the network. Otherwise, it’s already compromised. Especially for individual users at home, when you plug into the network, it takes just eight seconds for your computer to be compromised when no security updates have been implemented. “Ten years ago, it was all about keeping hackers out of your system,” said Dorsch. “Today’s focus is ‘Protection of Data,’ assuming that somebody is already in your network and they’re just sitting there waiting.” Dorsch warned about potentially unknown risks among the general public, emphasizing that Internet use without precaution can have devastating consequences. “For example, Google opens up millions of web sites to browse for information. However, a lot of people don’t know that many source-links listed first are actually paid advertisements,” said Dorsch. “Owners of those links have paid Google to have their sites placed first in the list knowing most people tend to click on them believing the first listed have the most pertinent information available.” According to Dorsch, it is good practice to always check the URL addresses of links found when researching via Internet search engines, including Google. “You should first check the URL addresses of the links you find and make sure they’re not directing you to sites located in adversarial countries. This is a precaution that should be followed at home as much as at work,” said Dorsch. Dorsch also warned about a new attack vector being employed that takes over your home computer and denies access until a ransom is paid. “Ransomware is malware that prohibits access to your computer once your system has been infected,” said Dorsch. “Your computer will be frozen until you call the ransomware’s provided telephone number and agree to pay their fine, at which time you are generally given an access code that will free up your computer. This can happen if you’re not careful with internet searches or opening suspicious emails.” Dorsch said cybercrime is here to stay and will continue to evolve with its perpetrators striving to stay ahead of law enforce-
See CYBER, page 7
Coastal Compass - April 2016
Coastal Compass Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division Panama City, FL, 32407-7001 (850) 235-5990 DSN: 436-5990 Commanding Officer Capt. Phillip Dawson III, USN Executive Officer Cmdr. Paul G. Werring Jr. Division Technical Director Edwin Stewart (SES) Public Affairs Officer Jeffrey Prater Editor and Media Liaison Dan Broadstreet
The Sun Rises Over LCAC 91 at NSWC PCD Landing Craft Air Cushion-91 (LCAC) sits portside aboard Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division (NSWC PCD) as the sun rises along St. Andrew Bay on March 24, 2016. LCAC-91, one of two LCACs aboard NSWC PCD, is used for research, development, test and evaluation purposes and in support of the Department of the Navy’s expeditionary and amphibious maneuver system mission areas. (Photo by Ron Newsome, NSWC PCD/RELEASED)
CYBER ment agencies, which is why the Commander of the U.S. Cyber Command Adm. Michael Rogers is requesting a $505 million budget for fiscal 2017 – a 3.5 percent increase over the $488 million allocated for 2016. CHIPS – The Department of the Navy’s Information Technology Magazine – reported that one of the Navy’s newest initiatives to counter cybercrime is called CYBERSAFE. “As CYBERSAFE is implemented, it will drive Navy programs to add cybersecurity controls to legacy systems while also requiring these security controls to be incorporated early into a system’s design. This acquisition focus, combined with an emerging emphasis to develop a Navywide culture of cybersecurity awareness will position Navy leadership to make cybersecurity risk decisions that will result in improved operational readiness.” (CHIPS; Mark Elliott, Sudha Vyas and Ed Lazarski; January-March 2016) In addition to Internet precautions previously mentioned, Vice Adm. Wil-
from page 6 liam H. Hilarides, Commander, Naval Sea Systems Command, issued a March 18, 2016 All Hands email advising the Navy’s workforce to exercise extreme caution, specifically toward “Cyber Security – Phishing Attacks.” In particular, Hilarides prescribed a few specific precautions to exercise. “... Phishing is a criminal activity that is the easiest and one of the most effective ways to penetrate our networks. We must be very careful how we react to e-mails in our inbox. If a message comes from someone we don’t know, if it directs us to a link we’re not familiar with, DO NOT open it,” wrote Hilarides. “If you suspect an e-mail is a Phishing attempt, notify your local Information Systems Security Manager (ISSM). You can also send it as an ‘attachment only’ to the NMCI spam box at: nmci_spam@navy.mil. Do ‘NOT’ forward the email to anyone else, including the ISSM, unless directed by the ISSM. Cybersecurity starts with you!” ♦
Coastal Compass - April 2016
Public Affairs Specialist Jacqui Barker Public Affairs Specialist Katherine Mapp
Coastal Compass is published monthly by NSWC PCD and is an authorized medium for news of general interest about employees of NSWC PCD and their work. Contents of Coastal Compass are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the Department of Defense or Department of the Navy. Coastal Compass’ content is provided and prepared by the NSWC PCD Office of Corporate Communications. For details about submissions, contact NSWC PCD Corporate Communication Editor Dan Broadstreet at (850) 235-5990.
To contact NSWC PCD’s Fraud, Waste, and Abuse Hotline, call: (850) 234-4462
Page 7
Page 8
Coastal Compass - April 2016
Detachment of Sailors Aboard NSWC PCD Prepare for RIMPAC 2016 By Katherine Mapp, NSWC PCD Office of Congressional and Public Affairs
PANAMA CITY, Florida — In preparation for the biannual Rim of the Pacific Exercise (RIMPAC), as well as a standing deployment to Commander 5th Fleet in support of Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) Mobile Units, Sailors from the Naval Oceanography Mine Warfare Center (NOMWC) visited the Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division (NSWC PCD) to sharpen their skills and enhance their techniques during a certification event between Feb. 29 and Mar. 10, 2016. RIMPAC, which began in 1971, is a unique training opportunity that helps participants promote and sustain cooperative relationships that are critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the world’s oceans. Throughout the event, the Hawaiian Islands and surrounding areas become a critical training for military forces. Several nations from around the globe come together to not only train, but to cultivate and sustain international relationships which help them prepare for possible full participation in the future. Aboard NSWC PCD, two platoons from NOMWC, based out of Stennis Space Center, Miss., conducted Advanced Swordfish Tactics, Training and Techniques (AST3). NOMWC uses the MK 18 Mod 1 unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) designated “Swordfish”, which is a REMUS 100 EOD variant. MK 18s are used to search the sea floor for mines and mine like objects, allowing the post mission analysis (PMA) operators to detect possible threats and for the Data Fusion Cell to analyze change detection through data fusion as well as updating the Doctrinal Bottom Type based on clutter. According to NSWC PCD engineer and test director Amanda Bobe, the use of MK 18 provides an increased capability to gain understanding of the operational area using multiple sensors on the platform without a diver having to splash. The AST3 exercises are basically a mock deployment for the Sailors. “The Sailors will take all their gear and determine what is missing, what is not, and which objects inside their training field are objects of interest,” Bobe said. The Sailors are not aware of the target type or location within the training field. While other targets were commonly shaped, others were uncommonly shaped as items such as rocks and bicycles. It is critical for Sailors to undergo this type of training to be better prepared to face high operations tempo and the efforts they will experience while they are deployed. NOMWC Lt. j.g. Ted Jacobs described Panama City as the ideal place for the platoons to conduct their training. “We came to Panama City because they have various training targets in the different operation areas,” he said. “We get an opportunity to conduct a lot more cradle to grave operations which are not hindered by any distractions like back at the office. We are here to do operations strictly and try to simulate what we would do on a ship or at an actual exercise.” While aboard NSWC PCD, Sailors conducted various missions both on land and in the water. After the platoons conducted their missions, they create a post mission debrief report (PMD) after conducting a PMA using unmanned underwater sonar data
Coastal Compass - April 2016
Naval Oceanography Mine Warfare Center AG2 (Aerographer’s Mate 2nd Class) Anthony McNeely of Lacombe, LA produces a post mission debrief report after conducting post mission analysis using unmanned underwater sonar technologies on March 9, 2016 aboard Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division (NSWC PCD). (Photo by Ron Newsome NSWC PCD/ RELEASED)
collected from the UUVs. During the PMA, Sailors look for information that might be suspicious or unnatural. They then take a snapshot, measure and record the data and compile it into a single report. This report gives sailors the opportunity to locate the position of foreign objects and at what depth they are at. After the PMD is sent to the Mine Countermeasures Commander, divers can then decide whether to dive on the object or to use a system called Seabotics, which is a remotely operated vehicle with lights and cameras, as confirmation as to whether the object is a mine. Not only is it vital for the fleet to train aboard NSWC PCD, it also gives scientists and engineers that support the program, such as in-service engineering agents and the software support agencies, a chance to recognize if something is lacking in the program or equipment. By training on-site, it gives the scientists and engineers a chance to talk to the Sailors one-on-one about correcting the defects and software because it goes out to the fleet. “Every time the platoons conduct these types of training exercises, there is always a dramatic increase in the effectiveness, speed and capabilities of our platoons,” said Jacobs. “The main takeaway from the event is the team cohesion that comes from it.” According to Jacobs, this is the first time NOMWC was able to bring everyone in the newly formed 3rd Platoon together for training. He noted that by bringing everyone together, they get a good view of how the sailors work together and help to create the group cohesion that is needed on an exercise. NOMWC’s Aerographer’s Mate 3rd Class Navin Huddle thinks the training exercises are extremely important to the warfighter. “This exercise is to get ready for the real world and to prepare for anything,” he said. “You have to know what your job is and why your job is important to the Navy.” More training will come later in the year as NOMWC continues to prepare for mine warfare support worldwide. ♦
Page 9
U.S. Navy Celebrates the 123rd Birthday of the Chief petty officer From the Master Chief Petty Officer Office of Navy Public Affairs of the Navy
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- A message from the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy. Chief Petty Officers, As I reflect back on my service as a Chief Petty Officer, I am reminded of the exceptional leadership you have demonstrated time and time again. Together we have witnessed many changes ranging from the total integration of the force, to CPO 365. These changes, and many more, were done in an effort to ensure we provide everyone with a fair and equal opportunity to be successful, and to better enhance our naval force as a whole. Although change comes with a level of uncertainty, it is necessary in order to remain relevant. Chief Petty Officers have embraced and owned these changes, ensuring our Sailors are led with the highest level of excellence. As we celebrate 123 years of the Chief Petty Officer, it is not lost upon me the endless sacrifices you and your families make every day in leading, mentoring, and training Sailors under your charge. I once read that legacy is the lantern that lights the path for others to follow, and I have no doubt that the path you lit will shine brightly for generations to come.
PANAMA CITY, Florida (April 1, 2016) – Aviation Electrician’s Mate Chief Petty Officer (AW) John Kopelakis, USN, salutes during morning colors April 1, 2016 at the Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division in celebration of the U.S. Navy’s 123rd Chief Petty Officer birthday.(Photo by Eddie Greene, NSWC PCD/RELEASED)
Very respectfully, Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON)(AW/ NAC) Michael D. Stevens ♦
Bay Chamber of Commerce Celebrates 70th Anniversary of MAC By Jeff Prater, NSWC PCD Office of Congressional and Public Affairs
PANAMA CITY, Florida — On March 17, 2016 the Bay County Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Committee (MAC) celebrated their 70th anniversary at the Shrimp Boat restaurant. Attendees included past MAC Chairs and military guests from Tyndall Air Force Base and the Naval Support Activity Panama City. Current MAC Chair, Mike Sears opened the ceremony by sharing the committee’s history. “The committee was formed on March 15, 1946 as a proactive measure to address the needs of our military. The Navy Base had just become a permanent facility but there was uncertainty about Tyndall Airfield,” said Sears. “The newly formed committee took its first action less than a week later when a party of Army Officers came to Tyndall. The Officers were to survey the base as a possible permanent facility as they were deciding which World War II bases to retain. To fully understand the needs of the military, Chamber President Cecil Kelly and then Army-Navy Committee Chairman, Jesse Cogburn met with these officers at Tyndall.” On June 1, 1946, a statement issued by the Board of Directors detailed their strategic economic foresight and community involvements. “Panama City is most fortunate in being selected as the site of the Air Tactical School of the Army Air Forces. Its immediate, as well as long range effects will be of untold economic as well as cultural value. We must therefore recognize the vast responsibilities thrust on us as well as our good fortune,” the Board of Directors reported. “In all our conferences with Army officials we have assured them that this community would take care of their needs. We, the Board of Directors, wish to ask for the wholehearted cooperation of this entire community
Page 10
Military Affairs Committee (MAC) Chair Mike Sears shares the historical importance of the MAC’s partnership wtih the Bay County Chamber of Commerce and the community during MAC 70th Anniversary Celebration March 17, 2016.(Photo courtesy of Tyndall Air Force Base)
in seeing that this pledge is kept.” In July of 1946 the MAC threw its first ‘Get Acquainted’ informal dinner dance, which began at the Cove Hotel for cocktails and dinner, and then proceeded to St. Andrew’s Bay Yacht Club for dancing. Little did the MAC’s founders know they were setting a gold standard. Sears closed emphasizing the MAC’s importance to the community. ”While these past 70 years have brought tremendous support for our Navy and Air Force installations, it’s imperative we continue to grow,” said Sears. “Through the MAC, we can continue to emphasize the importance of what our military men and women do right here in Bay County. Our Military installations are assets that need protecting in the future years: Five forces — one mission.” ♦
Coastal Compass - April 2016
2016 Sexual Assault and Prevention Month at NSWC PCD
CO Signs 2016 SAAPM Proclamation Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division Commanding Officer Capt. Phillip E. Dawson III, USN, signed the 2016 Sexual Assault and Prevention Month (SAAPM) proclamation April 1, 2016 in Panama City, Florida. Dawson was joined by three NSWC PCD Sailors who serve as sexual assault victim advocates and Naval Support Activity Panama City Sexual Assault Response Coordinator Catherine Montfort. (Photo by Ed Green, NSWC PCD/RELEASED).
Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division Commanding Officer Capt. Phillip E. Dawson III, USN, signs the Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month on April 1, 2016 in Panama City, Florida. The proclamation shows the command’s support to raising awareness for the need to stop sexual assaults. (Photo by Ed Green, NSWC PCD/RELEASED).
Coastal Compass - April 2016
Page 11
CNO Announces Five Initiatives to Drive Sexual Assaults to Zero From Chief of Naval Operations Public Affairs
WASHINGTON (NNS) — A line of effort in the recently released “Design to Maintain Maritime Superiority” is to strengthen our Navy team which is composed of active and reserve Sailors, Navy civilians, and families. On January 14th, Chief of Naval Operations Admiral John Richardson announced a new set of sexual assault prevention and response initiatives to lower the obstacles to reporting, provide added support to survivors, and prevent revictimization. During the announcement, Richardson told reporters an important element of this effort is to eliminate self-inflicted destructive behavior, sexual assault being among the most egregious. He went on to say sexual harassment and sexual assault have absolutely no place in our Navy and are contrary to our core values. “Eliminating sexual assault requires more than words, zerotolerance requires an all-hands effort,” said Richardson. Here are the five initiatives CNO announced to help “end the scourge of sexual assault” in our Navy: 1. A Shipmate is not a “bystander.” If you see something wrong, do something right. It is every Sailor’s responsibility to “step up and step in” to help their shipmate when they observe or become aware of undesired and destructive behavior. In 2015, Navy adopted a new training approach, shifting from traditional lecture-style training to a more dynamic program called “Chart the Course.” Chart the Course moves beyond the “bystander” approach and combines scenario-based videos with facilitator-led discussions to achieve an interactive learning experience. The training provides insight on what to do when faced with challenging situations. 2. Establish Counselors within the Fleet and Family Support Centers as a resource for victim support. Building on the success we have experienced with deployed resiliency counselors on “big decks,” there are potential gains if we are able to replicate the counseling and support provided under the Navy
Command Reenlistment Congratulations Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division Executive Officer Cmdr. Paul Werring, USN, congratulates Mineman Second Class (SW) Andrew Boe on his honorable discharge. Boe was discharged prior to his six year reenlistment April 1, 2016. (Photo by Jacqui Barker, NSWC PCD/RELEASED).
Page 12
Family Advocacy Program for Sailors impacted by sexual assault. In addition to enhanced care, we expect the availability of these counselors to provide an opportunity to go after the social and structural barriers to male victim reporting. These counselors will provide opportunities to collaborate with local civilian facilities and counselors to ensure we are using every available measure to support our survivors. We are currently determining how to pilot this concept to get a better assessment. 3. Improve our personnel management practices and procedures, following a sexual assault experience, to ensure our Sailors are put in the best position possible to succeed. This includes examining our present detailing practices so to preclude administrative or management decisions and actions that unintentionally result in the Sailor reliving the sexual assault experience. In addition to the expedited transfer program, this could also include honoring a survivor’s request for an expedited discharge, should they desire to leave the Navy. 4. Continue our efforts to educate our Sailors and reduce alcohol abuse in the Navy, particularly binge drinking. The data clearly reflects that alcohol abuse is a factor in most of the Navy’s sexual assault cases. We need to ensure that our accountability processes and options, administrative and otherwise, provide the tools we need to effectively deal with incidents where alcohol abuse has been established. 5. Better utilize technology to remove cultural barriers and stigma associated with reporting a sexual assault or seeking advice and counsel. We are currently exploring a number of computer applications piloted at universities. We expect to be able to begin introducing a “Navy version” within the year. CNO concluded his discussion by thanking Congress for the focus, attention, and assistance they have provided on this issue and the commitment to eliminate sexual assault. “I want to continue to confront this scourge in our workforce. Until we go to zero we can never be satisfied,” said Richardson. ♦
Command Plans XO Birthday Surprise
NSWC PCD Executive Officer Cmdr. Paul Werring, USN, was surprised with a birthday celebration March 22, 2016. Attendees paused for a photo. From left to right are: Division Technical Director Ed Stewart (SES), Cmdr. Werring, X Department Head Dr. Kerry Commander, Military Liaison Geri Kohler, Executive Assistant Laura Beacom and Executive Assistant Chloe Kuhns. (Photo by Jacqui Barker, NSWC PCD/RELEASED).
Coastal Compass - April 2016
New Horizons Learning Center Tours NDSTC Dive School and NSWC PCD Students and faculty from the New Horizons Learning Center along with community mentors visited the Warfare Center and the Dive School March 30, 2016. The students also have several active duty mentors from the Aviation Unit and the NSWC PCD Dive Locker. New Horizons Learning Center was created in 1997 and classified as a Second Chance School by the Florida Department of Education, serving a special population of high-risk students. (Photo by Jeff Prater, NSWC PCD/RELEASED)
Coastal Compass - April 2016
Page 13
DATELINE 2030: The State of The NAVSEA Workforce By Alan J. Dean, NAVSEA Warfare Centers Talent/Workforce Director
The Future: The year is 2030. The Naval Sea Systems Command’s (NAVSEA) Warfare Centers are poised with diverse teams of seasoned and new multi-disciplined scientists, engineers, and technicians to research, develop, test, and evaluate all the latest naval capabilities and perform in-service engineering efforts across all Navy surface and undersea platforms. But how did these teams originate and evolve? What activities did the Warfare Centers engage in to spark inspiration and develop foundational skills in the science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields? How It Started: In 2002, Rear Adm. Jay M. Cohen, formerly the Chief of Naval Research, recognized the need to create an intellectual capital base to develop and deploy the required technologies for the “Navy after Next.” He initiated the “Naval Research – Science and Technology for America’s Readiness” (N-Star) program. He funded the NAVSEA Warfare Centers to create and implement an integrated continuum of programs with the goal of sustaining a pipeline of at least 500 scientist and engineering candidates per year. These integrated activities were based on a National Science Foundation research study that determined: “Experience to date has shown that students can be attracted to and retained in engineering programs if they are exposed to the joys of creation through design discovery, and through research and invention through hands-on experimentation.” As a result, the naval STEM strategy focused on three areas: 1. “Inspire” – to plant the seeds of interest in science and engineering in the middle and high school students and faculty, 2. “Engage” – to nurture that interest through engagement with students and faculty, 3. “Educate” – to produce the STEM workforce that is critical to the Navy’s success through undergraduate and graduate research. Integrating the “hands-on strategy” across the continuum of K-12 and college and university activities had the potential to yield a robust and diverse STEM pipeline for the Navy and offered new opportunities to partner with academia and industry. In 2007, the National Academies released a report, “Rising Above the Gathering Storm: Energizing and Employing America for a Brighter Future,” that underscored the need to emphasize STEM programs across the United States, similar to Rear Adm. Cohen’s vision for the Navy. Today, the NAVSEA Warfare Centers – comprised of Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) and Naval Undersea Warfare Center (NUWC) – execute a robust STEM program to inspire, engage, and educate the future workforce. Inspire: Inspiring the future workforce starts at an early age, which requires robust STEM programs for elementary and middle school students. The flagship program for Naval K-12 Outreach is Sea Perch, which provides students with the opportunity to learn about robotics, engineering, science, and mathematics while building an
Page 14
underwater remotely operated vehicle (ROV) as part of a science and engineering technology curriculum. Throughout the project, students will learn engineering concepts, problem solving, teamwork, and technical applications. NSWC Panama City Division’s ‘Science Brothers’ is a unique outreach program aimed at getting elementary school students interested in STEM activities. The program centers on the dynamics of two “brothers” who specialize in chemistry and physics and their argument over which is ‘cooler.’ The result is a fun and wacky hour-long experience as the brothers perform an interactive demonstration that involves chemistry, physics, and electricity, light, sound and energy. Several Warfare Center Divisions host or participate in STEM Summer Camps such as the Greater Philadelphia STEM Center Summer Camps, supported by NSWC Philadelphia Division. This is a two-week residential camp designed to increase awareness of STEM and Navy careers. The first two-week program is geared toward middle school girls, in partnership with the Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania. The second two-week camp involves middle school boys and girls. Hosted primarily at university partner locations, the students experience a college campus environment. In fiscal year 2014 (FY14), more than 3,300 NAVSEA scientists and engineers participated in proactive student outreach programs, reaching more than 1,800 schools, 1,700 teachers, and 45,000 students. In FY15, NAVSEA scientists and engineers engaged 58,650 students and 2,813 teachers. Engage: The NAVSEA Warfare Centers participate in a range of local, regional, and national STEM activities – from Division tours, to local science fairs to the USA Science and Engineering Festival, held in Washington, D.C. each year on the Mall. To engage the next generation workforce, the NAVSEA Warfare Centers lead a host of activities, including: • Scientists and engineers mentor high school interns through the Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP) and college and university students through the Naval Research Enterprise Internship Program (NREIP). The ten-week hands-on experience provides the students exposure to realworld naval technical challenges. • High school and college students put their STEM skills to the test at the International Human-Powered Submarine Races (ISR) held at NSWC Carderock Division (NSWCCD). • It is a biennial capstone event that provides students from around the world the opportunity to think outside of the box, build one- or two-person submarines that are either propeller or non-propeller driven and test their designs in the spirit of friendly competition in NSWCCD’s historic David Taylor Model Basin (DTMB). In 2015, 24 teams competed. Since the inaugural race in 1989, ISR has been sponsored by Foundation for Underwater Research and Education, a non-profit organization that operates with the support from corporate sponsors, government and academic officials and a host of private individuals. • The race is hosted by NSWCCD, along with the Office of
See 2030, page 15
Coastal Compass - April 2016
2030 Naval Research and Program Executive Office Submarines. U.S. Navy divers from NSWC Indian Head Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technology Division provide water safety and underwater support. • NAVSEA sponsors and the Warfare Centers administer the “Navy STEM Scholarship Program,” a partnership between NAVSEA and Strategic Systems Programs (SSP), designed to reach out to the next generation of scientists and engineers in Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU), Hispanic Serving Institutions and universities serving American Indian students. As tuition, cost of living, and other related college expenses continue to rise, the Navy STEM Scholarship Program helps students focus on academics instead of mounting financial debt. The Navy STEM Scholarship Program consists of two parts: a one-time $10,000 scholarship awarded the freshman year of college, and a student employment internship opportunity to provide valuable technical work experience and continued tuition assistance. Since its inception in 2009, the program supports the annual enrollment of approximately 50 diverse Warfare Center STEM student employees.
Coastal Compass - April 2016
from page 14 • The NAVSEA Warfare Centers administer the Masters of Science in Systems Engineers (MSEE) program, sponsored by NAVSEA, which targets diversity and underrepresented undergraduate students. The NAVSEA MSSE is a workforce acquisition and development program designed to increase the number of entry-level employees, particularly from underrepresented groups, with naval systems engineering knowledge, skills and abilities. Eligible candidates are hired as full-time employees by the NAVSEA Warfare Centers and participate in a 12-month intensive academic degree training at an HBCU, where they receive a multi-disciplined program of complex systems. Since its inception in 2010, NAVSEA and the Warfare Centers have retained more than 90% of the graduates. In 2016, the program, partnering NAVSEA, SPAWAR, and SSP, is migrating to Morgan State University with a cybersecurity focus. Educate: The NAVSEA Warfare Centers partner with colleges and universities in undergraduate and graduate research through a range
See 2030, page 16
Page 15
2030
from page 14
of vehicles including Memorandums of Understanding, NonDisclosure Agreements, Educational Partnership Agreements and Cooperative Research and Development Agreements. Although STEM outreach is not the primary purpose of these vehicles, the NAVSEA Warfare Centers are leveraging them to specifically target STEM students and faculty and provide the opportunity to help solve Naval challenges. In 2010, the Warfare Centers launched the Naval Engineering Education Consortium (NEEC) to accelerate the development of the next generation of Naval scientists and engineers through project-based education research. Past examples of NEEC projects include the areas of maritime communications, acoustics, noise and thermal management of systems, assessing corrosion, analysis of lithium ion batteries, remote magnetometry, testing and operation of a reduced-scale railgun, submarine high energy lasers, and the use of unmanned vehicles. • The Challenge: The 2014 National Science Board report, “Revisiting the STEM Workforce,” states “a decade’s worth of data demonstrates the growing pervasiveness of science and technology in the American Workplace.” STEM skills have migrated to many more occupations than those traditionally thought of as science and engineering. This increasing demand for STEM skillsets in a broader range of occupations underscores the need to continue to inspire, engage, and educate an entire STEM-fluent workforce, regardless of the job being performed. • As the largest federal employer of scientists and engineers, the Department of Defense (DoD) and the Naval Research and Development Establishment (NR&DE) directly and indirectly influence economic growth in all sectors of the economy. As the demand for a highly skilled STEM workforce continues to grow, sustaining future DoD operations will increasingly rely on a diverse STEM talent pool. The NAVSEA Warfare Centers will continue their efforts to encourage and inspire students to consider careers in the STEM fields to replenish the talent and intellectual capital that helps
Page 16
Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division’s Dan Flisek (left) and Bill Porter (right), also known as The Science Brothers, conduct a science show featuring “The Barking Dog” science demonstration during the annual Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day April 26, 2012 in Panama City, Florida. (Photo by Dan Broadstreet, NSWC PCD/RELEASED).
keep the U.S. Navy number one in the world. The NAVSEA Warfare Centers are comprised of the • Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) and the Naval Undersea Warfare Center (NUWC) and represent ~30% of the Navy’s engineering and scientific expertise. NSWC is comprised of eight echelon-four Divisions: Carderock, Corona, Crane, Dahlgren, Indian Head Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technology, Panama City, Philadelphia, and Port Hueneme, as well as one echelon-five command, Combat Direction Systems Activity (part of Dahlgren). NUWC is comprised of two echelon-four Divisions, • Newport and Keyport, as well as one echelon-five command, Naval Sea Logistics Center (NSLC) (part of Keyport). With more than 100 years of history, the NAVSEA Warfare Centers provide “full spectrum” technical advice and solutions to our partners in support of Naval platforms and systems. ♦
Coastal Compass - April 2016