Bahrain Desert Times (502) - August 2023

WOMEN’S EQUALITY DAY LOOKING BACK TO MOVE FORWARD

By Ameera Al-Kooheji NSA Public Affairs

I be treated?" As a non-US citizen, a civilian, and mostly as a woman. The U.S. Navy has made significant progress in the struggle for equality over the past century, opening the way for equal economic opportunities for all military personnel and civilians by combating sex and racial discrimination through regulations. For everyone, including me, this diversification of the military force has created limitless prospects and opportunities for equal treatment. We owe it to the pioneers of women's equality for the opportunity we have now and the treatment we receive including self-worth, decision-making power, access to opportunities and resources, and the ability to effect change.

The United States' entry into World War I aided in changing popular view of women's suffrage. The National American Woman Suffrage Association, directed by Carrie Chapman Catt, advocated for women's enfranchisement in recognition of their patriotic wartime service. In 1918, President Woodrow Wilson announced his support for the suffrage amendment.

The 19th Amendment was formally introduced to Congress on June 14, 1919. However, adoption of the amendment to the US Constitution needed three-fourths of the states, which in 1919 was 36 of the 48 states. By the middle of 1920, the amendment had been ratified by 35 states. On August 18, 1920, Tennessee became the 36th and last state required. On August 26, 1920, Secretary of State Bainbridge Colby confirmed the ratification, forever altering the face of the American voter.

Admiral Michelle Howard, the Navy's highest-ranking female commander, was nominated by President Barack Obama in May 2016 to oversee US Naval Forces Europe-Africa and Allied Joint Force Command, Naples. Howard made history when she became the first woman to be promoted to the rank of 4-star admiral.

August 26th marks the 52nd commemoration of Women’s Equality Day and the 103rd anniversary of the women’s suffrage movement’s greatest victory in the fight for gender equality—granting women the right to vote following the ratification of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

The amendment’s ratification paved the way for millions of women to participate in the political process as voters and, for the first time, to freely shape their own future as enfranchised citizens in the economic life of the nation. But what did the amendment, a milestone of American democracy, mean to an aspiring nation and its military power overseas?

Today, women’s equality has grown to mean much more than just sharing the right to vote. It has expanded to reflect upon and honor the progress that has been made towards gender equality. On the periphery of this expansion, there was an evolution in the Department of Defense (DOD) and its branches around the world. It is fair to say that a stride towards equality more than a 100 years ago serves as a catalyst for diversity and inclusion agendas across widely-ranging segments of the DOD today. Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain is a mere example of this advancement with its commitment to maintain an environment where the contributions of all women are valued and where gender equality is wholly realized with increasing attention to the importance of race, ethnicity, and class.

When I first joined NSA Bahrain, the salient concern in my mind was, "How will

A Brief History of Celebrating August 26

Evaluating the progress of women’s equality in the U.S. and around the world is a duty devolved upon the rest of us since it is not only a crucial moral and social issue, but also essential for economic growth. The history of the 19th Amendment passage is a good place to start this review.

The women's suffrage movement began at Seneca Falls, New York, in 1848, with the first women's rights conference. Since then, numerous generations of women's suffrage proponents have taught, written, marched, campaigned, and fought for what many Americans saw as a radical reform in the Constitution—to officially give American women the right to vote. A constitutional amendment granting women this right was offered in the United States Senate for the first time in 1878, but it was defeated in 1887. Suffrage organizations continued to work at the state and municipal levels throughout the 1890s. Lucy Burns and Alice Paul emerged as prominent leaders whose diverse techniques aided in the passage of the 19th Amendment.

On August 26, 1970, the 50th anniversary of the 19th Amendment, the women's liberation movement called for a "strike for equality." Following the national Women's Strike for Equality, New York Congresswoman Bella Abzug introduced legislation to designate August 26 as Women's Equality Day in 1971 and again in 1973. While Richard Nixon became the first president to issue a proclamation designating August 26 as “Women's Rights Day” in 1972, the bill was officially passed in 1973. Every year since, the president has declared August 26 “Women's Equality Day.”

Acknowledging our trailblazers

Women have made significant contributions to the strength and resilience of the United States armed forces since Congress granted them the right to “serve as permanent, regular members of the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force" under the Women's Armed Services Integration Act in 1948, holding positions ranging from administration to aviation to combat. Women now make up more than 231,000 of the DOD's entire personnel. Gender prejudices have been overcome in the Navy through tenacity, demonstrated talents, and a shared enthusiasm for adventure since 2013, when the military's prohibition on women participating in combat was lifted. Today, we honor the trailblazers and suffragists, as well as the nation's finest female military commanders who pushed us towards a more equitable and affluent future. Here are some examples of leading women in the military:

Nominated to that post by President Joe Biden on March 5, 2021, General Jacqueline D. Van Ovost is the 14th Commander of the U.S. Transportation Command (TRANSCOM). In early 2021, she was the only active-duty female four-star general officer in the United States.

This year, President Joe Biden has selected Admiral Lisa Franchetti to be the Navy’s top officer. A historic step that would break a gender barrier in the U.S. military by making her the first woman to command the service and to become a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

Enlisted Association Hosts Splashy Fundraiser at NSA Bahrain

Sailor in the Spotlight

(Photo: 19th Amendment to the United States ConstitutionNational Archives)

(Photo: Woman suffrage headquarters, Upper Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, 1912. Courtesy Library of Congress.)

(Photo: Admiral Michelle Howard. Source: navy.mil)

(Photo by: Senior Airman Tara Stetler)

(Photo by: Lance Cpl. Cody Purcell)

Women’s Equality Day Looking Back to Move Forward on Page 2

RADON TESTING IN PROGRESS ONBOARD NSA BAHRAIN

Courtesy of NSA Bahrain Public Works Department

You may have already noticed the black circular discs with a small placard placed inside many buildings throughout NSA Bahrain. These detectors are part of a radon survey at NSA Bahrain being conducted from January 2023 through January 2024. EPA recommends long-term radon testing since indoor radon levels can vary due to seasonal weather patterns.

RadTrak2 are composed of detectors in black plastic housing. They are installed in a pair for quality control. This survey is a proactive measure to ensure the health and well-being of all NSA Bahrain personnel. How do the radon detectors work?

RadTrak2 consists of a passive sensitive detector inside of an anti-static housing. Radon can enter the detector though diffusion and is measured. Each detector has a unique barcode/number identifier for tracking. After retrieval, an image scanner is used to read the exposure measurement expressed in picocuries per liter in air (pCi/L).

What is radon?

Radon is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas that is produced by the decay of naturally occurring uranium found in rock, soil and water. Radon tends to concentrate in enclosed areas with poor air circulation, such as underground mines and some buildings (WHO 2009). Radon can infiltrate buildings through cracks and voids in concrete, mortar and sheetrock. Radon levels in outdoor air (~0.2 pCi/L) pose a

relatively low threat to human health since is diluted by the atmosphere. Why is radon a concern?

Long-term exposure to radon can increase the risk of lung cancer in humans (US EPA 2003). Radon exposure is the leading cause of lung cancer for nonsmokers and the second-leading cause of lung cancer for smokers (WHO 2009). EPA estimates that radon causes more than 20,000 deaths from lung cancer each year in the US. EPA recommends mitigation for indoor radon levels at or above 4 pCi/L (US EPA 2016). Thus, the Navy Radon Assessment and Mitigation Program (NAVRAMP) requires maintaining indoor radon levels below 4 pCi/L.

According to the EPA, if 1,000 people who never smoked were exposed to 4 pCi/L over a lifetime, seven of them would

develop lung cancer. This risk would equal the same risk as dying in a car crash.

Because of the way modern homes and buildings are built, radon often gets trapped indoors. According to the EPA, nearly one in fifteen homes in the US has a radon problem. This is because we now live in houses and apartments that have less natural ventilation. Elevated radon has also been found in almost every country in the world. Is radon in water a problem?

Water distributed onboard NSA Bahrain is sourced from the Bahrain Al Hidd desalination plant and further treated on base by reverse osmosis water purification. Radon in water is more of a concern when the water source is groundwater. NSA Bahrain’s water source is surface seawater. Since typical water usage readily releases

radon into indoor air, testing for radon in air within the building is considered a valid substitute for testing for radon in water per the EPA.

Why is the Navy concerned about radon?

Ensuring the health and safety of military personnel, civilians, and their families, is of the utmost importance to the Navy. The Navy Radon Assessment and Mitigation Program was designed to identify Navy buildings with elevated radon levels and provide mitigation if needed. The Navy radon policy requires that all Navy and Marine Corps installations worldwide perform radon testing and, if needed, provide radon mitigation.

What if a Detector Falls on the Floor?

After the radon detectors are installed, they should remain undisturbed until recovered for analysis. Do not cover the detectors or place any equipment that move air, such as fans, near them.

If they fall to the floor, are disturbed or need to be relocated, please contact DSN 439-9078 for assistance. You can also rehang them on the placard in its original position.

If the testing placard is found on the floor, please re-attach the placard to the wall with additional adhesive as close to its original location as possible. Use the clip on the back of the radon detectors to re-affix them to the top of the placard.

If you have any questions about the radon survey or need assistance while renovating/painting the attached location please contact the NSA Bahrain Radon Program Manager, Mr. Jay Nair at 439-9078 or e-mail: m-ba-navfaceurafcentpwdbhenvironment@us.navy.mil

Visit the EPA link for more information about radon: https://www.epa.gov/radon

WOMEN’S EQUALITY DAY LOOKING BACK TO MOVE FORWARD

On March 6, 2021, General Laura Jane Richardson was nominated by President Joe Biden to become the first woman commander to lead the U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), the second

woman to attain the rank of general in the U.S. Army and the third woman to lead one of the U.S. military’s 11 unified combatant commands.

Admiral Linda L. Fagan assumed the duties as the 27th Commandant of the United States Coast Guard on June 1st, 2022. making her the first woman in American history to lead any branch of the U.S. Armed Forces.

As a result, the commemoration aims to honor the work and rising presence of women in the US Armed Forces, as well as to encourage military force diversity. On this day, we honor women of all abilities and disciplines who work for the DOD, and the climate we foster allows for no boundaries.

From Page 1

(Photo: courtesy U.S. Embassy Costa Rica)

(Photo: Admiral Linda L. Fagan . Source: uscg.mil)

Junior Enlisted Association Hosts Splashy Fundraiser at NSA Bahrain

Story by Mass Communication Specialist Chief Justin Stumberg

The Junior Enlisted Association (JEA) at Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain kicked off the scorching summer with a refreshing twist by hosting a water balloon fight, Aug. 17.

The event brought together naval personnel for a fun-filled day under the sun with the aim at raising funds for the upcoming Navy Birthday Ball in Manama, Bahrain.

"It's great to see everyone come together and have so much fun while supporting a meaningful event like the Navy Ball,” said Mass Communication Specialist 2nd (MC2) Class Jonathan Nye, JEA president.

Under the blazing Bahrain sun, participants armed themselves with water balloons and enthusiastically engaged in a spirited water balloon battle. Laughter echoed across the open space as Sailors formed two teams, dodged splashes, and embraced the opportunity to cool off.

“The water balloon fight was not only a blast, but also a reminder of the camaraderie that makes our naval community so special," said Nye.

Nye highlighted the planning, teamwork, and coordination that went into making the event a success.

"We wanted to create an event that resonated with everyone, from the junior enlisted to others in the Bahrain community,” said Nye. “The water balloon fight was the perfect choice—it symbolized the spirit of camaraderie and teamwork that defines our naval community."

The JEA hosted the event as

part of its ongoing efforts to raise funds for the much-anticipated Navy Birthday Ball, an event that celebrates the accomplishments and dedication of naval personnel.

The central theme of this year’s 248th Navy Birthday and Heritage Week will be, “248 years of Power, Presence and Protection,” highlighting the U.S. Navy’s historical and longstanding commitment to being forward deployed, highly trained

and dedicated to defending American interests at sea, land, and sky.

Cmdr. Elyse Braxton, one of the event referees, shared her excitement about the event.

"It's important to give back to the hard chargers, especially the junior enlisted,” said Braxton. “When I was asked to referee during the water balloon battle, I jumped at the opportunity. MC2 Nye didn't even finish asking me

about getting into the dunk tank; I gave him a solid, "yes!" I love playing in water, making adventurous memories, and helping my shipmates. I specifically wore a U.S. Navy T-shirt that I bought 20 years ago, as an Airman, Aviation Maintenance Administrationman (AZAN). You don't want to forget your roots as you're playing with and supporting the future, of the Navy. The water was warm, trash-

talking, and the spirit of competition was in the air. It was a fine Navy-day. I am happy to have supported a cause that directly contributes to allowing more junior Sailors to celebrate time-honored Naval traditions and fellowship with one another. It's about more than just fundraising; it's about building connections and memories."

As the sun set over NSA Bahrain, wet but satisfied participants gathered to wrap up the water balloon fight, knowing that their contributions would make a difference. The event proved to be an engaging and enjoyable way to foster unity while raising funds, leaving participants eagerly awaiting the next opportunity to come together and celebrate their shared bond within the naval family. Join the conversation online https://www.facebook.com/ AFNBAHRAIN/.

Joint Task Force 5-0 Brings DOD Capabilities to FEMA-led Response in Maui

By Joseph Clark, DOD News

Led by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, nearly 700 DOD personnel and 140 Coast Guardsmen are part of the coordinated response, as military members work alongside interagency partners and state and local officials.

But beyond personnel currently on the ground, Army Col. David Fielder, deputy commander of Joint Task Force 5-0, said the task force brings with it the capability to tap into and quickly field the full spectrum of military capabilities as the situation evolves.

"Gen. Flynn has the entire DOD presence supporting him," Fielder said of Army Gen. Charles A. Flynn, commanding general of U.S. Army Pacific.

Fielder said he consults on a nearly daily basis with local leaders who are amazed by what the DOD can offer.

He said if there is a capability needed on the ground, the task force can reach back across the entire DOD to begin working a solution.

"If we can support it, we offer it up to FEMA," Fielder said. He said the task force has moved at unprecedented pace in supporting the interagency effort.

The task force is led by Army Brig. Gen. Stephen F. Logan, commander of the Hawaii Army National Guard. It was activated on Aug. 11 and reached full operational capacity five days later.

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III designated Logan as the dual status commander of Joint Task Force 5-0 under

to operate traffic control points and provide security in support of local law enforcement. The National Guard is also providing response teams trained in hazardous material response. Additionally, active components from the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines have all lent their support to the mission.

support of FEMA:

- Operation of a Defense Coordinating Element office including liaison officers.

- Inter-island air/sea transportation for the movement of cargo, personnel, supplies and equipment.

- Use of Schofield Barracks to support facilities for billeting, life support and hygiene facilities for federal emergency responders.

- Strategic transportation of personnel and/or cargo.

- Standing by for aerial fire suppression.

- Use of U.S. Army Reserve Center –Wailuku and support as a FEMA Incident Support Base and a Federal Staging Area for FEMA.

- Fuel distribution operations in support of U.S. Army Corps of Engineers generator operations.

- Mortuary Affairs support.

DOD personnel are currently conducting 8 eight approved mission assignments in

Fielder said the task force is another reminder of the DOD's proven ability to quickly field resources needed to respond to any humanitarian situation throughout the globe. He also noted the Department's commitment to continue supporting local, state and federal emergency responders, however they may be needed.

U.S.

Indo-Pacific Command on Aug. 12. The Hawaii National Guard continues

439-4520

www.cnic.navy.mil/bahrain

Commanding Officer

Naval Support Activity Bahrain

Capt. Zachariah Aperauch

NSA Bahrain Executive Officer Cmdr. Jimmy Harmon

Public Affairs Officer

Chief Editor

Lt. Nicolas Mahone

Deputy Public Affairs Officer Mark C. Mosher

Mass Communication Specialist

1st Class Sean Gallagher

Host Nation Public Affairs Director Ameera Al-Kooheji

The Bahrain Desert Times is an authorized publication primarily for members of the Navy and Marine Corps military services in Bahrain. Its contents do not necessarily reflect the official views of the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense, the U.S. Navy or Marine Corps and do not imply endorsement thereof.

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As I write this, I am reaching the end of a fruitful day of counseling and advisement. I’ve shed a lot of tears for the many situations that our sailors have experienced, many of them pertain to experiences outside of the Navy life. My thoughts and prayers go out to all who have lost a loved one recently, and for those experiencing their own struggles. There are plenty of challenges that we face on a daily basis, but it doesn’t mean we need or should face it alone. Someone once said to me that I should “always put on a good face.” How can we do that if we are not in a good state? I’ve had extraordinary opportunities to visit many wonders of the world, and yet what moves me most is the compassion and the sorrow of my neighbor, and I mean you. I don’t know how often each of us has heard it said, but I do care about you. It’s not a feel good message. It’s the reality that your chaplains are here to care about you for one simple reason: WE CARE ABOUT YOU!

I write this message as one of the newest chaplains to remind you that we do care about you! From confidentiality in counseling to providing religious services, we care about you. “It is a privilege to serve those who serve us,” as I have said often to my own friends back home, and so one of our main priorities is looking out for you. I’ve had some great conversations in the office, at the NEX, the gym, or at the gates. There is no limit to where you can speak to a chaplain. All you have to do is ask. While I was preparing for my own religious formation, I had the opportunity to have several exemplary chaplains who were present to direct, offer support, or just be an open ear, and without them I certainly would have fallen short of what I needed to achieve spiritually, physically, academically, and emotionally. It seems there are too many ears blocked by earbuds these day, and no one is willing to listen. Maybe only using one earbud will keep at least one ear open to hear what our neighbors NEED to say to us, especially when it comes down to our own personal challenges. Just because we have PERSONAL challenges, it doesn’t mean we need to keep them PERSONAL. Finding an open ear in the Chaplain’s office is a great way to find that direction and support! So, this is my invitation to you: talk to a chaplain, because you know we will have an open ear for you. WE CARE ABOUT YOU!

New MOVIES at the MWR Cinema

Barbie (PG-13) – 1h 54m

Barbie and Ken are having the time of their lives in the colorful and seemingly perfect world of Barbie Land. However, when they get a chance to go to the real world, they soon discover the joys and perils of living among humans. | Cast: Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling, Greta Gerwig, Simu Liu

Haunted Mansion (PG-13) – 2h 3m

A woman and her son enlist a motley crew of so-called spiritual experts to help rid their home of supernatural squatters. | Cast: Jared Leto, LaKeith Stanfield, Tiffany Haddish, Owen Wilson

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem (PG) – 1h 39m

After years of being sheltered from the human world, the Turtle brothers set out to win the hearts of New Yorkers and be accepted as normal teenagers. Their new friend, April O'Neil, helps them take on a mysterious crime syndicate, but they soon get in over their heads when an army of mutants is unleashed upon them. | Cast: Jackie Chan, Nicolas Cantu, Seth Rogen, Micah Abbey

Meg 2:

The Trench (PG-13)

– 1h 56m

Jonas Taylor leads a research team on an exploratory dive into the deepest depths of the ocean. Their voyage spirals into chaos when a malevolent mining operation threatens their mission and forces them into a high-stakes battle for survival. Pitted against colossal, prehistoric sharks and relentless environmental plunderers, they must outrun, outsmart and outswim their merciless predators. | Cast: Jason Statham, Li Bingbing, Able Wanamakok, Sienna Guillory

The Bahrain Desert Times

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