Bahrain Desert Times (522) - May 2024

NMCRS Recognizes 2024 ADFD Key Persons, Volunteers at NSA Bahrain

Story by MC1 Shayla D. Hamilton, NSA Bahrain Public Affairs

MANAMA, Bahrain—The Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS) team recognized 2024 Active Duty Fund Drive (ADFD) key persons and volunteers at an on-base ceremony, May 15.

NSA Bahrain made 100 percent meaningful contact with base personnel and ranked number one in the world in per capita donations, averaging a $62.95 per person. Additionally, the NSA Bahrain Navy Exchange houses the top three cashiers worldwide for the Navy Exchange’s “5-for5” coupon sales.

“So far this year, NMCRS has had 95 cases and disbursed over $122,000 in assistance,” said Renee Rhinehart, NMCRS director, thanking the volunteers and representatives for their efforts. “Your meaningful contact as key persons is ensuring education and awareness gets our Marines and Sailors to the right resources.”

During the ceremony, key persons and full-service office volunteers were presented

with plaques and certificates, signifying their contributions to the drive. Individual commands were recognized for categories including highest per capita donation, most improved, and the 100 percent award, recognizing commands achieving 100 percent contact and 100 percent donors.

“This achievement is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment of each and every one of you,” said Capt. Zachariah Aperauch, commanding officer, NSA Bahrain. “The NMCRS ADFD is not just about raising money; it’s about supporting our brothers and sisters in uniform. It’s about ensuring that in times of need, they have a safety net to all back on. Whether it’s financial assistance, educational support, or emergency aid, your contributions make a tangible difference in the lives of our service members and their families.”

NMCRS provides assistance to active duty and retired Navy and Marine Corps personnel and their family members. NMCRS provides assistance with basic living expenses such as food, rent, utilities,

assistance with emergency transportation, funerals, medical and dental bills, essential car repair, pay problems, and other emergency needs. Assistance is provided with loans or grants, depending on financial need.

“I want to highlight our most significant accomplishment, achieving a one hundred percent contact rate,” said Aperauch. “This remarkable feat is up from 98 percent last year, and demonstrates your relentless pursuit of reaching every Sailor and Marine across all of the commands. Your tireless efforts in ensuring everyone was informed and had the opportunity to contribute have made this possible.”

Through volunteers, key persons, and the Navy Exchange, the 2024 ADFD at NSA Bahrain raised $196,644; an 18 percent increase from 2023, and a new record for the installation.

“This extraordinary achievement is a direct reflection of your passion, dedication, and the meaningful connections you have made within our community,” said Aperauch. “You have set an example for

others to follow, and your impact will be felt long after this campaign has ended.”

For the second year in a row, the “5-for5” Navy Exchange coupon sales at NSA Bahrain were number one in the world. The coupon sales raised more money than any other installation in the Europe, Africa, and Central Command region.

“Let’s take a moment to reflect on what you have achieved, together,” said Aperauch. “You have not only met, but exceeded our goals, setting new records, and raising the bar for future campaigns. Let’s carry this momentum forward, continuing to support our Navy and Marine Corps family with the same passion and dedication.

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

Celebrating Asian American, Native Hawaiian, & Pacific Islander Heritage Month

AANHPI Heritage Month Spotlight – EA2 Jeremiah Montefalcon

MANAMA, Bahrain – Petty Officer 2nd Class Jeremiah Montefalcon, a native of Buena Park, Ca., is playing a critical role at Naval Support Activity Bahrain, serving more than 147 tenant commands while stationed with Public Works Department Bahrain.

Montefalcon is a 2014 graduate of Faith Christian School in the Philippines, and has been serving in the Navy for six years. Today, he serves as an engineering aide, one out of seven ratings encompassing the Navy’s Seabee community.

Engineering Aides assist construction engineers in developing final construction plans. They conduct land surveys, prepare maps, sketches, drawings and blueprints; estimate costs, perform quality assurance tests on common construction materials such as soils, concrete and asphalt; and perform other engineering technician functions.

“I was originally born in the Philippines in the city of Quezon City, although I wasn't raised in the Philippines because we moved to California at the age of 5,” said Montefalcon. “That didn't stop my

parents from instilling Filipino culture in me and in our household my parents spoke to me in Filipino so that I don't forget the language. They taught me how hardworking and patient Filipinos can be,

which has really helped me in my career in the Navy.”

When asked what inspired him to join the Navy, Montefalcon said history was a major selling point.

“The Philippines and the Navy has such rich history,” said Montefalcon. “Knowing that there were military installations spread around the Philippines dating back to 1901 and being given the opportunity to visit the decommissioned Naval Base in Subic Bay, which I was told played a key role with supply and maintenance during the Vietnam War, really sparked an interest in me.”

Since 1992, the month of May has been designated to honor Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders for their personal

AANHPI Heritage Month Spotlight – Lt. Cmdr. Natasha Niemann

a native of Bradenton, Fl., is playing a critical role at Commander, Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) and Commander, U.S. 5th Fleet, serving as the command’s cyber security and flag communications division officer.

Niemann is a 2010 graduate of Manatee High School and has been serving in the Navy for 10 years. Today, she serves as an Information Professional (IP) officer. IP

officers serve everywhere there are communications and networks, including ships at sea and units ashore, special operations and expeditionary forces, Cyber Mission Forces, the White House Communications Agency, and on major naval and joint staffs.

Her education and experience have served her well in her position, and Niemann’s cultural background has provided some once-in-a-lifetime opportunities.

“I was born and raised in Jakarta, Indonesia before moving to Florida in the 6th grade,” said Niemann. “My mother's family is Indonesian, and I still speak the language. Here at NAVCENT, I was able to be the escort officer for the Indonesian General and his delegation during their visit to CMF [Combined Maritime Forces] in 2023. That was such a special experience to work alongside his staff and share stories and memories of my time in

Indonesia with the other officers. I was also invited to celebrate Indonesian National Day the Embassy held here in Bahrain.”

When asked what inspired her to join the Navy, Niemann said her call to serve came from the safety she felt once her family settled in the U.S.

“I was living in Jakarta during 9/11, and after the Twin Towers fell down, Indonesia's attitude towards the West shifted,” said Niemann. “There were police at my school, and a constant anxiety and watchful eye for being an American/ Westerner in Indonesia at the time. After the Bali bombings, my parents decided we should move to the U.S. because it was safer. When I moved, the anxiety of being who I was subsided, and I felt so thankful to be an American and be ‘home.’ I have felt a call to serve so no one would feel the anxieties or discrimination I felt as a kid, and to give back to the country that kept my family safe. I joined the JROTC [Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps] in high school where I realized a military career was something I could see myself doing, and pursued a commission through NROTC [Naval Reserve Officer Training

accomplishments and meaningful contributions to American history.

“This month, we celebrate the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities, whose ingenuity, grit, and perseverance have pushed our great American experiment forward,” said President Joe Biden. “From Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders whose ancestors have called their lands home for hundreds of years to Asian immigrants who have newly arrived and those whose families have been here for generations — AA and NHPI heritage has long been a part of the history of our great country and a defining force in the soul of our Nation.”

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

Corps] while in college. It's been a decade and I am so thankful for the people and experiences the navy has given me, along with the honor to serve beside all the service members to protect our freedoms.”

“This month, we celebrate the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities, whose ingenuity, grit, and perseverance have pushed our great American experiment forward,” said President Joe Biden. “From Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders whose ancestors have called their lands home for hundreds of years to Asian immigrants who have newly arrived and those whose families have been here for generations — AA and NHPI heritage has long been a part of the history of our great country and a defining force in the soul of our Nation.”

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

MANAMA, Bahrain – Lt. Cmdr. Natasha Niemann,

Combined Maritime Forces’ Combined Task Force 154 Marks Productive First Year

Story by NAVCENT Public Affairs MANAMA, BAHRAIN – Combined Maritime Forces’ Combined Task Force (CTF) 154 marked one year as the partnership’s multinational maritime training task force, May 22.

CTF 154 provides multinational maritime training across the Middle East, centered on five core areas: maritime awareness, law of the sea, maritime interdiction, maritime rescue and assistance, and leadership development. CTF 154 customizes training to meet partner needs, enabling more nations to participate in training evolutions, even without ships or aircraft.

Since standing up last year, CTF 154 has completed nearly 30 training exercises across five operations: Compass Rose I and II in Bahrain; Southern Readiness in the Seychelles, and Northern Readiness I and II in Jordan. These events connected more than 135 subject matter experts with over 400 participants from 23 countries.

“Working and training collectively allows us to operate more effectively,” said Vice Adm. George Wikoff, CMF commander. “With CTF 154 we’re boosting regional maritime security by providing the ‘go-to’ training that partners and members need to keep the advantage in a dynamic environment.”

The task force conducted their inaugural event, Compass Rose, in Bahrain May 22-25, 2023. The training included more than 50 participants from Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, the United Kingdom and United States and focused on first aid and vessel boarding procedures. The second Compass Rose exercise also occurred in Bahrain that December, with training on visit, board, search and seizure procedures, vessel security, and watch officer fundamentals.

In July, CTF 154 traveled to the Seychelles for Exercise Southern Readiness. The exercise involved vessel boarding, search-and-rescue operation techniques,

maritime law and navigation. This was undertaken by field experts from Canada, Australia, France, United Kingdom, India, Italy and the United States of America, including experts from Seychelles Coast Guard and the locally based office of the United Nations on Drugs and Crimes.

CTF 154 conducted operation Northern Readiness at the Royal Jordanian Naval Base in Aqaba, Jordan, in October. More than 30 CMF facilitators from eight nations led training courses on maritime awareness, law of the sea, VBSS, search and rescue, medical evacuations, seamanship development, public affairs, and leadership development.

In February, the Task Force held its

largest scale event to date, Operation Northern Readiness II. Approximately 150 participants, facilitators, and observers took part, including representatives from CMF, European Union Naval Force Operation, and the United Nations Institute for Training and Research.

“Being the commander of Combined Task Force 154 is an honor for the Royal Jordanian Navy and for myself,” said Capt. Ayman Salem Alnaimat, who became CTF 154’s second commander in November. “As we celebrate a year of impressive accomplishments, I believe the task force has more to achieve. All CMF members and our regional maritime partners support our efforts, which promote interoperability,

capacity, capability and cooperation.”

CMF is the largest multinational naval partnership in the world, with 43 nations committed to upholding the international rules-based order at sea, which promotes security, stability, and prosperity across approximately 3.2 million square miles of international waters, encompassing some of the world’s most important shipping lanes.

CMF’s other task forces include CTF 150 that focuses on maritime security in the Gulf of Oman and Indian Ocean; CTF 151, which leads regional counter-piracy efforts; CTF 152, dedicated to maritime security in the Arabian Gulf; and CTF 153 in the Red Sea.

NSF Bahrain Passes CNIC Security Assessment at NSA Bahrain

Story by MC1 Shayla D. Hamilton, NSA Bahrain Public Affairs

MANAMA, Bahrain— Naval Security Forces (NSF) Bahrain participated in a Regional Assessment (RASS) at Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain, May 5-9.

RASS is part of Commander, Navy Installation Command's (CNIC) Navy security force shore assessment and certification cycle. RASS is both an administrative and operational assessment comprising evaluations of core capability programs, Defense Readiness Reporting System-Strategic readiness, and operational evaluations.

The weeklong assessment was a collaborative effort from NSF Bahrain’s training and security teams, as well as medical, fire, safety, emergency operations center, and emergency management teams. NSF Bahrain leadership attributed the team’s success during the RASS to teamwork, sacrifice, preparation, and dedication.

“There are many parables, adages, quotes and sayings about teamwork that are apparent in the NSA Bahrain team we have working right now,” said Chief Master-at-Arms Jimmy Sheldon, Harbor Patrol Unit (HPU) training leading chief petty officer. “We have an awesome team of dedicated warriors who want nothing more than to succeed. They stayed dedicated throughout the entire process, never once wavering. Through the long days and nights, through the heat, and even bad weather, they never gave up and it paid dividends.”

Sheldon added, outside of operational requirements, being stationed in Bahrain presents unique challenges, emphasizing the relentless effort put forth by the team despite weather conditions, long days and nights, and being away from family and friends.

“This team spent countless hours sacrificing and paying the price, from the top down and the bottom up, to make

sure we did the job right,” said Sheldon. “While some tasking may have seemed mundane, some evolutions may seem arbitrary, and some long work days may seem tedious, each moment has a purpose. I believe the teamwork, sacrifice, and dedication our team displayed in RASS is an indicator of that our Navy is in good hands in these current and future leaders.”

Master Chief Master-at-Arms Jeffrey Harris, NSF Bahrain’s senior enlisted advisor, also praised the team’s dedication and its impact on their achievements.

“It takes a dedicated team to maintain readiness year round,” said Harris. “NSA Bahrain earned an overall 97 percent during RASS -- the highest score ever achieved in EURAFCENT [Europe, Africa, Central]. Along with this record-setting feat, it is impressive that Bahrain's first responders have been operating at a higher force protection condition with zero degradation in training and readiness. We are beyond proud of this team who

supports warfighting efforts and most important, protects the warfighters. This team has cultivated excellence through service before self.”

The RASS is in the middle of the Navy’s three-part training and certification cycle for shore installations; the other components are the Command Assessment for Review and Training (CART) and the Final Evaluation Problem (FEP). FEP evaluates an installation’s ability to meet all core competencies, as well as operational requirements. NSF Bahrain is scheduled to complete FEP later this year.

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

Fire Alarms in

Apartment Buildings

Large apartment buildings are built to keep people safe from fire. Fire alarm systems detect smoke and fire. They will warn residents of danger.

KKK The fire alarm system has many parts that work together. Some of the parts are out of sight. In a fire, smoke detectors sense smoke and activate the fire alarm. Manual fire alarm boxes allow people to sound the alarm. When the fire alarm system activates it will warn residents of danger.

KKK Everyone in the building should know where to find the manual fire alarm boxes (alarm boxes on the wall with a pull bar). Most are found within five feet of an exit door.

KKK If there is a fire, pull the manual fire alarm box handle on your way out of the building.

KKK When the system senses smoke or fire, a loud horn or tone will sound. Everyone must know what this sound means and how to react.

KKK Leave the building right away if you hear the sound of a fire alarm. Stay outside at your meeting place until you are told the building is safe.

KKK Treat every fire alarm as an emergency. When the alarms sounds, get outside.

KKK Only use a manual fire alarm box if there is smoke or fire. Frequent false alarms are a problem. People might ignore the sound if they hear too many false alarms. False alarms also put firefighters at risk.

Escape 101

Know the locations of all exit stairs from your floor. If the nearest one is blocked by fire or smoke, you may have to use another exit. If the fire alarm sounds feel the door before opening. If it is hot, use another way out. If it is cool, use this exit to leave.

Close all doors behind you as you leave. Take the key to your apartment in case you are not able to get out of the building.

If fire or smoke is blocking all exits, return or stay in your apartment. Keep the door closed. Cover cracks around the door with towels or tape. Call 9-1-1 and let the fire department know you are trapped. Signal from the window by waving a flashlight or light-colored cloth.

Meet with your landlord or building manager to learn about the fire safety features and plans in your building.

NSA Bahrain Fire Department DSN: 439-7012

Mindfulness & Meditation: May 16th,11a.m. –12p.m., Bldg.

Living Core Values: May 23rd,11a.m –12p.m., Bldg.

Flexibility: May 30th,11a.m. –12p.m., Bldg. 100, Rm. 128A

Problem Solving: June 6th, 11a.m. –12p.m., Bldg. 100, Rm. 128A

Connection: June 13th,11a.m. –12 p.m., Bldg. 100, Rm. 128A

STAYING COOL

LCDR Ryan Williams, USN, CHC TF 51/5 Command Chaplain

Like it or not, we are entering the summer months here in Bahrain, and that means HEAT! Physical heat can certainly be taxing and draining on our system, and can even lead to dehydration, enervation, and not to mention being a sweaty mess after walking down the spine, from PSD to the NEX. To complicate things a bit, PCS season is also upon us, which evokes sometimes intense emotional, mental, financial, and spiritual “heat” as well. In the midst of PCS stress, it’s easy to lose our cool; we can easily overheat due to the blistering stressors thrown regularly in our laps. Inundated with stressors, we may become overly judgmental or shaming of ourselves and others, short-tempered, or even resentful and spiteful. What is the remedy to this? How do we stay cool?

I would like to recommend four ways to cool off during stressful seasons of life. Think COOL: Curiosity, Observe, Orient, and Learn.

First, remain Curious. Try getting curious about your own emotions and thoughts. Rather than jumping to judgement for thinking or feeling a certain way, get curious—ask, “Why do I suppose I’m feeling or thinking this way? Where do those feelings or thoughts come from?” Cultivating curiosity cools us down because it slows us down and curbs emotional reactivity. Get curious!

Second, Observe. Take time to observe and notice how you are doing. Spend time with yourself to really discover how you are doing. Self-reflection time may come in the form of journaling, working out, speaking with a counselor or trusted colleague, praying, or meditating.

Third, Orient. Stay cool by taking time to identify the big picture of things and how you fit into that picture. Taking a bigger perspective of circumstances can be a healthy way to recognize “this too shall pass” or the common “it is what it is…right now.” Remind yourself that current circumstances will not last forever and there will come a time when the pressure decreases. Of course, if the psychological pain seems to increase as time progresses, please reach out to one of our Spiritual/Mental Health resources for more concentrated support.

Finally, Learn. Just as remaining curious prepares us for adaptation and healthy adjustment to rising temperatures, maintaining a learning attitude will soften our negative self-talk and infuse grace during crucial moments of difficulty. Cultivate an approach where we conceptualize mistakes as opportunities to learn. Remember Wayne Gretzky’s famous guidance: “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” Remember learning how to ride a bike? Falling is part of the process! We cool down as we learn from our falls.

As always, your combined NAVCENT/NSA/TASK FORCE Chaplain team stands ready to assist you in any way possible. Please don’t hesitate to reach out, and as the temperature rises in so many ways this season, please STAY COOL!

New MOVIES at the MWR Cinema

Furiosa (R) – 2h 28m

The origin story of renegade warrior Furiosa before her encounter and teamup with Mad Max. | Cast: Anya Taylor-Joy, Chris Hemsworth, Tom Burke

IF (PG) – 1h 44m

A young girl who goes through a difficult experience begins to see everyone's imaginary friends who have been left behind as their reallife friends have grown up. | Cast: Cailey Fleming, Ryan Reynolds, John Krasinski

Abigail (R) – 1h 49m

After a group of criminals kidnap the ballerina daughter of a powerful underworld figure, they retreat to an isolated mansion, unaware that they're locked inside with no normal little girl. | Cast: Melissa Barrera, Dan Stevens, Alisha Weir

Challengers (R) – 2h 11m

Tashi, a former tennis prodigy turned coach, turned her husband into a champion. But to overcome a losing streak, he needs to face his ex-best friend and Tashi's ex-boyfriend. | Cast: Mike Faist, John O’Connor, Zendaya

DANCE