THE
BEACON U.S. Naval Support Activity Souda Bay, Greece
July 2022
The Beacon
THE BEACON Warfighting First, Operate Forward, Be Ready
Warfighting First, Operate Forward, Be Ready
Commanding Officer, NSA Souda Bay Capt. Ryan T. Tewell CAPT Rafael C. Facundo COMMANDING OFFICER Executive Officer Michael Mosi EXECUTIVE Cmdr. OFFICER WernerCDR J. Rauchenstein COMMAND MASTER CHIEF CMDCM Igor Vargas Command Master Chief CMDCM Neal T. Olds THE BEACON NEWSLETTER PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICER Carolyn Jackson DEPUTY PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICER Nicholas S. Tenorio PUBLIC AFFAIRS SPECIALIST Kostas Fantaousakis
Beacon Staff/Public Affairs Office
Public Affairs Officer, 266-1244 HOW TO CONTACT US Assistant Public Affairs Officer, 266-1392 Joel Diller EMAIL SoudaBayPAO@eu.navy.mil ONLINE www.cnic.navy.mil/SoudaBay Community Relations, 266-1348 Kostas Fantaousakis PHONE +30 28210-21348 WRITE PSC814 BOX 1, FPO, AE, 09266 FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK facebook.com/NSASoudaBay SoudaBayPAO@eu.navy.mil Contact Email (All PAO personnel): Jacky Fisher
TheBeacon Beaconisisthe theprofessional professionalonline onlinenewsletter newsletterofofNSA NSASouda SoudaBay Bay Public Affairs.Information Information contained The Public Affairs. in The Beacon notdoes necessarily reflect the official views views of theof U.S. the Department contained in Thedoes Beacon not necessarily reflect the official the Government, U.S. Government, the of Defense or the Department of the Navy. Editorial content is prepared by the Public Department of Defense or the Department of the Navy. Editorial content is prepared by theAffairs PublicOffice of NSA Souda Bay. Affairs Office of NSA Souda Bay. for publication The Beacon should be submitted to SoudaBayPAO@eu.navy.mil ArticlesArticles for publication in The in Beacon should be submitted to SoudaBayPAO@eu.navy.mil Story submissions must be routed through tenant command or departmental leadership. Story submissions must be routed through tenant command or departmental senior senior leadership. Securityand and policy review must completed before submissions canconsidered be considered for publication. Security policy review must bebe completed before submissions can be for publication.
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Contents September 2021
20 USS Sioux City Proof-of-concept LCS maintenance
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6
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by CAPT Rafael C. Facundo Commanding Officer
Souda Spotlight
ABHAN Jessie Martinez Menia Kimioni Roger Anderson
Independence Day Celebration
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28
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Living in Greece:
Around NSA Souda Bay
Frocking Ceremony
Triad Corner
Phrases for Travelers
Awards, Reenlistments, Events, Operations
Front Cover: Guests enjoy the fireworks display during the U.S. Naval Support Activity Souda Bay Independence Day Celebration at the Hellenic Air Force, 115th Combat Wing Summer Officer's Club in Agios Onoufrios, Greece, June 30. Photo by Nicholas S. Tenorio, Public Affairs. The Parting Shot: Aviation Ordnanceman Second Class Dmontre Brown, assigned to U.S. Naval Support Activity Souda Bay, serves a volleyball during the Independence Day Celebration at the Hellenic Air Force, 115th Combat Wing Summer Officer's Club in Agios Onoufrios, Greece, June 30. Photo by Nicholas S. Tenorio, Public Affairs.
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Triad Corner
Team Souda, When I assumed command of NSA Souda Bay in July 2020, I asked two things of you: that each day you would have a positive attitude and that you would make the effort to do things right the first time. In spite of many challenges, in the end you succeeded admirably and I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together to support the Fleet and the entire Joint Force. Over the past two years we: • Supported countless missions across all armed services, to the benefit of 3 Combatant Commanders, 2 Operational Fleet Theaters, across three continents, in order to preserve security and stability • Supported THREE carrier strike group visits • Supported countless short fused aircraft detachments moving between 3 AORs • Passed with flying colors the Command Assessment of Readiness and Training (CART), and completed numerous ATTT and ITTT drills to be ready for any crisis or emergency • Supported extensive forward deployed maintenance availability (MAVs) and crew swaps on submarines, surface combatants, and supply ships Page 4
• Hosted numerous distinguished visitors, who left here in awe of the tremendous support you provided from such a small footprint • Operated safely and effectively under the threat of a global pandemic As I depart for my next assignment, I am taking many incredible memories with me, including: • Getting to thank you individually for your professionalism and service while celebrating your accomplishments during Awards at Quarters • Seeing the Festival you created for the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), giving them a taste of Greek culture during their sandbox liberty • Representing the United States by laying a wreath to commemorate the 81st Battle of Crete during a ceremony at the Maleme Airport • Seeing your generosity in donating your time in service to the local community • Attending the Inauguration Ceremony of Ancient Aptera on the occasion of the Twinning Ceremony when Chania and Tarpon Springs, Fla., became Sister Cities • Discussing Team Souda’s capabilities with the Greek Prime Minister, Minister of Defense
and Chief of Defense • Celebrating Greek Holidays – especially OHI Day – Greece’s Day of No I am also grateful that Sandy and I were able to experience this beautiful island and the warmth of the Greek people. Some of our favorite memories include: • Trying Raki for the first time • Learning about olive oil and wine production on Crete • Relaxed meals at restaurants in the Venetian Harbor • Hiking to Gouverneto Monastery • Exploring the small villages • Visiting Santorini and Rhodes
When I joined the United States Navy 25 years ago, I could not have imagined one day serving as the Commanding Officer of NSA Souda Bay. It has been my honor and tremendous privilege to serve alongside you. You and your families have my deepest gratitude and admiration. Team Souda, you are all invited to the Change of Command at the Base Gym on July 29. I know that you all will continue to remain strong and stay safe under the leadership of my successor, CAPT Odin Klug. May God continue to bless you in your service to our Nation. With utmost respect,
~ Skipper Facundo
Catch the XO Radio Show Fridays at 7 a.m. 107.3 on the FM dial or AFN GO App
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Souda Spotlight: Aviation Boatswain’s Mate Airman Jessie Martinez Air Operations, Souda Bay By Nicholas S. Tenorio, Public Affairs
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viation Boatswain’s Mate Airman Jessie Martinez, a native of Grand Prairie, Texas, joined the Navy in Sept. 2021 and arrived at NSA Souda Bay in April 2022 where he works in Air Operations. Prior to joining the Navy, Martinez went to Emergency Medical Technician school and worked for Amazon. He joined the Navy to travel the world, to meet new people and to serve his country. What is a typical day at NSA Souda Bay like for you? In Air Operations, my team begins the day by checking the flight plans to see what aircraft will be coming and going. We communicate with the air traffic controllers to know exactly what the aircraft are doing. Out on the airfield, I drive the “follow-me” truck, which guides the aircraft from the runway to its parking spot. Once someone from our team has guided the aircraft into its parking spot, we make sure the wheels are chalked. What role does your office/department play for NSA Souda Bay? The Air Operations team at NSA Souda Bay provides logistical support to ships and aircraft that are operating in the region. The base here is kind of like the gas stations along Interstate 10 in Texas. If you’re from Texas, you are familiar with the signs along I-10 that say “last gas station for 300 miles”. So here [at Souda Bay], we are kind of like the last stop. We help replenish ships so they can continue to operate in the region. What is your favorite part of your job at NSA Souda Bay? Driving the follow-me truck. When the aircraft lands, the follow-me truck guides the aircraft to its parking spot. I haven’t been home in a while, so I miss driving. With the follow-me truck, you have to be ready to keep up with the aircraft. Some aircraft are faster than others, so you have to be ready to speed up or slow down depending on the aircraft.
What has been a career highlight here? I directed a C-17, which is a huge aircraft (169 ft. wing span). I didn’t realize how big it was until I was standing about 25-30 feet in front of it while I was trying to park it. It’s really exciting to be directing the movement of such a huge aircraft. It’s a big responsibility. When not at work, what do you enjoy doing? It’s not a coincidence that I chose the Navy because there is always going to be water. I really enjoy visiting the beaches in the area. Another fun thing about the military is that you get to meet people. I’ve had the chance to work with so many new people and it’s fun getting to know people. I also follow sports and I love working out. I work out almost every day; 5-6 times a week. What is something else you want Team Souda to know about you or the work you do at NSA Souda Bay? I’m a team player. Working at NSA Souda Bay, it’s not just about me; it’s not really just about any one person. We all have to work together to make everything happen. For example, we print out a flight schedule each day, but it’s just an estimate. We rely on the air traffic controllers to let us know on the radio when the planes are actually approaching, or if there are any changes.
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Souda Spotlight: Sales Clerk/Cashier Menia Kimioni
Navy Exchange Souda Bay By Kostas Fantaousakis, Public Affairs
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enia Kimioni, a native of Chania, was hired by the Navy Exchange Souda Bay on July 1, 2021, as a Sales Clerk/Cashier. She has a degree as a primary school teacher and certification as a teacher for children with special needs. Menia works exclusively at the NEX Mart where she restocks shelves, maintains quality control and works as a cashier. Menia also tends to special orders and works with the store managers to resolve any issues. What is a typical day like at the Navy Exchange? Every day is a new day, and every day is also super busy. My priorities are the register so that the customers are always satisfied and ready to be served. Moreover we have to restock the shelves from the warehouse, do the inventory and check for any issues with the products, like expired or damaged merchandise. What is your favorite thing about your job? It’s communicating with the customers and organizing each shelf so that it will be easier for the customers to choose their products. I also like communicating with my co-workers, it’s all about teamwork. Another priority for me is also the survey cards. They are a motivation for us to improve and it’s the thing that I love most in my job. When you are not at work, what do you enjoy doing? I enjoy going for walks, but what I really enjoy is swimming. I like watching movies and I also enjoy cooking. But swimming is what I enjoy the most, especially during summertime. What role does the NEX play at NSA Souda Bay?
from the United States. We provide the best prices and the best quality. We are essentially a quality of life establishment for Sailors and Team Souda members and their families. What are your goals while working at Navy Exchange? Every day I am trying to do my best. I want to reach the height of career potential. What is your favorite part about working at NSA Souda Bay? I really enjoy working at NSA Souda Bay due to the outstanding working conditions. Safety is very important here at Navy Exchange and everything is very organized. Another thing I enjoy is that NEX provides both training and career advancement opportunities; it is an excellent working environment. I am proud to be a member of Team Souda. What do you want Team Souda to know about Navy Exchange? I want Team Souda to know that we are all together. We are a team and we do our best every day. We are happy for our customers and we hope that they are satisfied with our service. We try our best to raise sales and provide the best customer service that we can.
Our customers here are far from home so the Navy Exchange is their connection with their hometown. We sell a number of products that are otherwise not available here in Greece. So our customers don’t have to wait for shipping Page 9
Souda Spotlight: Roger Anderson, Systems Analyst/Customer Support
Communications & IT Services (N6) By Nicholas S. Tenorio, Public Affairs
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oger Anderson, a native of Turin, Iowa, is a retired Air Force Tech. Sgt. where he worked in the Air Force military occupational specialty Communications – Computer Systems Operations. Prior to his current position, Roger provided IT support to the Bureau of Naval Personnel. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management with a focus in project management and has been with NSA Souda Bay for nearly four years.
What do you do at NSA Souda Bay? As the assigned Customer Support Analyst, I assist NSA Souda Bay with aligning department- and position-level information system requirements with existing U.S. Navy information technology resources. Basically, I help customers utilize IT/IS tools to get their jobs done. If requirements are identified that do not have a supporting resource, I assist with the analysis of alternate resource options, to include supporting the development of new programs. Why did you want to work for the government? And why did you want to work at NSA Souda Bay? During my U.S. Air Force career, I worked for many years in Europe alongside other U.S. military branches and NATO. I have always enjoyed working with the caliber of people that these organizations bring together to accomplish their missions. After I retired and was eventually hired into civil service by the Department of Navy, I jumped on the chance to apply for the NSA Souda Bay position to get back to the European theater. What has been a career highlight here? With NSA Souda Bay being such a small footprint, it has been a great experience to get to interact with my customers on a face-to-face basis. It’s very helpful toward understanding a customer's requirements when you can interact with them directly. It’s also been a great learning experience assisting on large-scale projects
that involve external agencies and “Big Navy”level interactions. How did your military career prepare you for your current position? During my enlistment, I was on the front line of the Air Force's transition from mainframe technology to the PC/Server-based system. Experiences like this have taught me to be flexible and adaptable to technology changes. I have also developed a broad understanding of how core components of how IT/IS have to work and interface with other systems. When not at work, what are you doing? When not at work, I spend most of my time at home with my wife and three dogs. We enjoy traveling and experiencing the many great sights and experiences that being in Europe offers. What do you want Team Souda to know? Many people confuse our role (the N6 department) with the “ONE-NET Field Services” role of the Naval Computer and Telecommunications Area Master Station Atlantic Detachment Souda Bay. The N6 Department acts as the liaison/translator between the customer and the enterprise service desk. In other words, if you need help troubleshooting an IT/IS problem or identifying an IT/IS solution, reach out to us at N6.
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Indepe
Photo
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SA Souda Bay’s MW how to throw a Birth The June 30 Independe Celebration, held at the 115th Combat Wing Sum Club, featured food trad American cookout, inclu hot dogs and watermelo Margarita Cox Band and crowd entertained while water sports and a varie including the hilarious W The Dunking Booth was with enthusiastic particip
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endence Day 2022
os by Nicholas S. Tenorio, Public Affairs
WR Team knows hday Party! ence Day Hellenic Air Force, mmer Officer’s ditionally found at an uding hamburgers, on slices. The d DJ Elen B kept the e attendees enjoyed ety of games, Wacky Olympics. s a HUGE draw, pants paying for the
privilege to dunk Executive Officer Michael Mosi and Command Master Chief Igor Vargas, among others; all proceeds from this event go toward the Navy Ball. Our Commanding Officer, Navy Captain Rafael Facundo, welcomed our Greek guests, and thanked Team Souda for its hard work so far this year. He also recognized the sacrifices our Sailors make – serving our Nation while away from their families on an unaccompanied tour. A spectacular fireworks display provided the perfect ending to the evening. Happy Birthday America!
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Independence Day 2022
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Independence Day 2022
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Independence Day 2022
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NSA Souda Bay supports proof-of-concept LCS maintenance Story and photos by Nicholas S. Tenorio, Public Affairs
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he Freedom-class littoral combat ship USS Sioux City (LCS 11), homeported at Naval Station Mayport, Jacksonville, Fla., arrived at Marathi NATO Pier Complex in Souda Bay, Greece, May 20. The visit marked the first time this type of vessel has called on Naval Support Activity Souda Bay amid its historic deployment throughout the U.S. Fifth and Sixth Fleets areas of operations. While in port, Sioux City underwent a preventative maintenance availability, in which a maintenance team of specialized Sailors, civilians and contractors assisted the ship’s crew with a variety of planned maintenance evolutions and spot-checks. During the ship’s PMAV, the combined team conducted more than 700 preventive maintenance checks. The critical work this team accomplished ensures the ship remains fully mission capable throughout its deployment. PMAVs are regularly executed throughout a littoral combat ship’s deployment to ensure the ship’s preventative maintenance schedule is completed on time. Sioux City will undergo several additional PMAVs in various locations throughout U.S. Fifth and U.S. Sixth Fleets as the ship and crew execute their historic deployment. “While we have had LCS operating out of Fourth and Seventh Fleet for several years, this is the first time Forward Deployed Regional Maintenance Center and the combined team of NSA Souda Bay, Naval Supply Systems Command
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Fleet Logistics Center and our contractors have had the opportunity to execute a PMAV in theater,” said Capt. Brian Karosich, FDRMC commanding officer. “This proof-of-concept underscores our ability to conduct maintenance forward for all classes of ships and prepares us for future deployments of littoral combat ships in both Fifth and Sixth Fleets.” In coordination with FDRMC’s planning team, NSA Souda Bay facilitated the successful execution of Sioux City’s PMAV by providing ship husbandry services and coordinating the delivery of more than 16,000 pounds of required tools and components. Sioux City is conducting a proof-of-concept for the deployment of littoral combat ships to the European, African, and Central Command areas of responsibility. The successful completion of their deployment will enable future ships of the class to deploy throughout the AORs for fleet tasking. The ship’s size, speed, and agility allows it to perform maritime security operations, theater security cooperation engagements and freedom of navigation patrols – keeping critical maritime commerce routes open, deterring conflict and coercion and providing a comparable ship to strengthen partnerships with other countries. FDRMC provides emergent, intermediate and depot-level maintenance and modernization for Forward Deployed Naval Forces in U.S. Fifth and Sixth Fleets through fleet technical assistance, voyage repair, contract management oversight, and diving and salvage. For more information, visit https://www. navsea.navy.mil/Home/RMC/FDRMC/ Tanner Barret, left, Epsilon Systems ship fitter, and Ron Rodriguez, Epsilon Systems machinist, perform maintenance on a motoroperated valve
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Graduation Cerem
Photo by Nicholas S. T
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Left to right: Information Systems Technician Chief Justin Storey, M Builder Second Class Tariqah Miller, Bachelor o Boatswain’s Mate Second Class Luke Davis, Associate of Art Nicholas Vargas, High School Diploma, D Congratulation
mony, June 2022
Tenorio, Public Affairs
Master of Business Administration, University of Arkansas Grantham of Science in Management, University of Phoenix ts in General Studies, University of Maryland Global Campus Department of Defense Education Activity ns Graduates!
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Community Outreach: Kladissos Beach Clean-Up By Kostas Fantaousakis, Public Affairs
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olunteers from the Lewis B. Puller-class expeditionary sea base USS Hershel “Woody” Williams (ESB 4) participated in a Community Outreach event in Chania on June 8. They collected a large amount of trash from Kladisos Beach and a nearby park. The volunteers' efforts greatly contributed to the local authorities’ continued efforts to preserve the scenic environment. Hershel “Woody” Williams is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of operations in support of U.S. national interests and security in Europe and Africa.
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Community Outreach: Yardwork Project By LCDR Joshua Hickman, Command Chaplain
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n June 25, volunteers from NSA Souda Bay, in coordination with NAVFAC Souda Bay, participated in a yardwork beautification project at the Daily Care Center for Children and Young Adults of Chania. Volunteers were more than happy to help beautify the area where the boys live and play and give back to the local community while stationed here in Crete. If you are interested in volunteer opportunities, contact MAC Kathleen Cottle, Chapel Chief, at 266-1204, or 282-102-1204.
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Living in Greece: Phrases for Travelers
Compiled by Kostas Fantaousakis, Public Affairs
Hi: Γειά (Yah). Very informal. Not to be used for higher ranking officials or senior citizens.
What is your name?: Πως σε λένε; (pos se LEHneh?)
Hello (two or more/single formal): Γειά σας (YAHsas).
Farewell/Goodbye: Αντίο (AnTIo). The more informal way of saying bye would just be ‘Yah.’ Recall that this is the same as saying hello (similar to ‘ciao’ in Italian). If addressing two or more individuals, say ‘YAHsas.’
Ok: Εντάξει (ENTAxei). Don’t overuse as it is similar to ‘whatever.’
See you/Talk to you later: Τα λέμε (tah LEHmeh) Another way to say goodbye.
Nice to meet you: Χάρηκα πολύ (HAreeka poLEE)
Yes: Ναί (neh)
Hello (single person/informal): Γειά σου (YAHsoo)
How are you?: Tι κανείς (tee KAHnis) Good morning: Καλημέρα (kahleeMERah) Good afternoon/evening: Καλησπέρα (kahleeSPERah) Goodnight: Καληνύχτα (kahleeNEEKHtah) Thank you: Ευχαριστώ (effkhariSTOE) Please / You’re welcome: Παρακαλώ (parakahLOE). The word for ‘please’ and ‘you’re welcome’ is the same. It can even be used to mean ‘I beg your pardon?’ when you want people to repeat what they just said. My name is...: Με λένε (meh LEHneh) Page 26
No: όχι (OHhee) Excuse me/ Sorry: Συγνώμη (SeeGHNOmee) Do you speak English?: Μιλάτε αγγλικά (MeeLAHteh agleeKAH?) Cheers: Στην υγειά μας! (Stin ehYAHmas). This literally means ‘To our health!’ You can also say ‘STIN ehYAHsas,’ which means ‘To your health!’ Help: Βοήθεια (vohEEtheeyah) I'm sorry, I don't speak Greek: Λυπάμαι, δεν μιλάω Eλληνικά (LeePAmeh, den miLAo ehleeneeKA) I don’t understand: Δεν καταλαβαίνω (Then katalaVEHno)
I’d like to buy this: Θα ήθελα να το αγοράσω αυτό (Tha EEthehla na to agoRAso afTO)
Could you take a picture of me, please? Θα μπορούσατε να τραβήξετε μια φωτογραφία μου; (Tha borOOsate na traVEEksehteh MEEa fotograFEEa moo?)
Can I try this on? Μπορώ να το φορέσω Could I have the check please? Θα αυτό; (BoRO na to foREHso afTO?) μπορούσα να έχω τον λογαριασμό παρακαλώ; (Tha borOOsa na Ekho ton I have a reservation: Έχω κάνει logariaSMO parakahLOE?) κράτηση (Ekho KAnee KRAteesee) Could we have the menu, please? Θα μπορούσαμε να έχουμε τον κατάλογο, παρακαλώ; (Tha boROOsame na Ekhoume ton kaTAlogo, parakaLO?) Do you have any dishes for vegetarians? Έχετε πιάτα για χορτοφάγους; (Ekhehteh peeAta gia hortoFAgoos?)
I love Greece: Αγαπώ την Ελλάδα (AgaPO teen EhLAtha) Oops!/Whoa!: Ώπα (OHpa) Originally meaning ‘oops’ or ‘whoops,’ it's also used frequently as an expression of enthusiasm or joy in celebrations or to show appreciation for music and dancing.
A view of the Venetian Harbor of Chania. Photo by Nicholas S. Tenorio, Public Affairs
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AROUND NSA SOUDA BAY Awards
Reenlistments
Events
Operations
AWARDS AT QUARTERS FOR JUNE 16 Navy & Marine Corps Commendation Medal Lieutenant Commander Christopher S. Fairfield
Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal
Master-at-Arms First Class John E. Cameron Master-at-Arms First Class Adam H. Moose (received two NAMs) Master-at-Arms First Class Raeshon A. Philbert Master-at-Arms Second Class Lauren A. Green Master-at-Arms Second Class Henrico J. Hogan Master-at-Arms Second Class Matthew M. Jarosch Master-at-Arms Third Class Gabriela Lozano Master-at-Arms First Class Jimmie Byrd Master-at-Arms First Class Victor Garcia Master-at-Arms First Class Riley Orzechowski Master-at-Arms First Class Joel Rash Master-at-Arms First Class Aaron Silins
Flag Letter of Commendation
Master-at-Arms First Class Ryan C. Regan Master-at-Arms Second Class Charles L. Keding Master-at-Arms Second Class Thomas C. Thornton Air Traffic Controller Third Class Henry P. Waterman Master-at-Arms Third Class Reed J. Vandermeiren Boatswain’s Mate Seaman Apprentice Jacob R. Stjernstrom
Letter of Commendation
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Master-at-Arms Third Class Logan D. McCann Air Traffic Controller Airman Apprentice Xavier A. Estrella Air Traffic Controller Airman Apprentice Christopher R. Mann
Civilian Length of Service Awards Mr. Nickolaos Mananedakis (5 years) Mr. Charalampos Matzaris (10 years) Mr. Panayotis Gantinas (10 years) Mr. Michael Chatzidakis (15 years) Mr. Theodoros Miglakis (15 years) Mr. Christos Mpekas (15 years) Ms. Angela Chatzidaki (20 years) Mr. Sotirios Kagkadis (20 years) Mr. Joannis Karampetsos (20 years) Ms. Despina Kopasi (20 years) Ms. Evangelia Tzanidaki (20 years) Mr. Nikolaos Tzifakis (20 years) Mr. Nikolaos Kartsonakis (30 years) Ms. Eftichia Kountouraki (30 years) Ms. Aikaterini Georgalaki (35 years)
Awards at Quarters Ceremony Photo by Nicholas S. Tenorio, Public Affairs
During a June 16 ceremony in the base gym, Navy Capt. Rafael Facundo, NSA Souda Bay’s commanding officer, recognized Team Souda’s Sailors and civilians for their outstanding achievements.
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Battle of Midway Anniversary Presentation By Nicholas S. Tenorio, Public Affairs
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ailors assigned to Naval Support Activity Souda Bay commemorated the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Midway at the base MWR Liberty Center on June 3. In remembrance of the battle that marked a major victory for the United States Navy over the Japanese navy, Sailors presented historical information about the battle and its significance to the outcome of World War II. Chief Electronics Technician Jose Ponce de Leon organized the event that culminated in a commemorative cake cutting. “Having young Sailors commemorate the Battle of Midway solidifies that our Navy has never forgotten the traditions and hard-earn lessons from the past,” said Ponce de Leon. “The actions of the Sailors who fought in times of war set the precedent for the actions of our Sailors today. I believe it is a good reminder of why we are here.” For more information about the history and significance of the Battle of Midway, visit Navy History and Heritage Command at https://www.history.navy.mil/our-collections/photography/wars-and-events/ world-war-ii/midway.html Page 30
Minoan Taverna Menu Review Board Story and photo by Nicholas S. Tenorio, Public Affairs
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aval Support Activity Souda Bay’s Minoan Taverna hosted a menu review board June 15. During the review board, the food service officer, Chief Warrant Officer Kelly Williams, discussed agenda items with attendees. “The menu review board is an opportunity for patrons to have a direct line of communication with the food service leadership to provide both comments and suggestions on our operations and menu choices,” said Williams. The meeting was open to all hands to attend and voice their opinions. “Personally, I love food,” said Information Systems Technician Seaman Christian Fernandez, a Sailor assigned to NSA Souda Bay who participated in the menu review board. “It’s a pathway to the heart. If any improvements to the Galley can be made, it will be done through customer participation in the menu review board.” Eleonora Papoutsaki (pictured), a native of Chania, Greece, has worked at the galley aboard NSA Souda Bay for 25 years. She spent twenty-three years as a food services assistant and the past two years as a cook. “I enjoy working as a cook for the base because it provides the opportunity to be creative and learn new recipes,” said Papoutsaki. “I put my best effort into every meal because it’s important to me that we provide our customers with the highest quality food.” Page 31
95th Reconnaissance Squadron Change of Command Story and photos by Nicholas S. Tenorio, Public Affairs
U.S. Air Force Col. John Litecky (left), commander, 55th Operations Group, 55th Wing, passes the Detachment 1, 95th Reconnaissance Squadron guidon to Lt. Col. Eric Myatt during the change of command ceremony.
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.S. Air Force Col. John Litecky, commander, 55th Operations Group, 55th Wing, presided over the Detachment 1, 95th Reconnaissance change of command ceremony at the NAMFI Officers' Club Asteria, June 21. Lt. Col. Eric Myatt assumed command from Lt. Col. James Hansen, who was awarded with a Meritorious Service Medal in recognition of his outstanding service as commander of the unit. Upon assuming command, Myatt said he is honored and grateful to serve the 21 ERS/Det 1, 95 RS at such a unique time in the European theater. "My goal is to continue the upward trajectory of the unit and ensure our presence at NSA Souda Bay for the foreseeable future, providing reconnaissance support to whichever Combatant Command calls," said Myatt. "I am already highly impressed with the team and cannot wait to get started." Page 32
Det 1, 95 RS is a tenant command operating at NSA Souda Bay that provides operations, logistics, intelligence and administrative support to the 21st Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron (21 ERS), for the conduct of sensitive reconnaissance and contingency operations in the European and African theaters. Master Sgt. Damion Popplewell, assigned to Detachment 1, 95th Reconnaissance Squadron, bears the guidon during change of command ceremony.
U.S. Air Force Col. John Litecky (left), commander, 55th Operations Group, 55th Wing, presents a Meritorious Service Medal to Lt. Col. James Hansen.
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FROCKING CEREMONY JUNE 29 Photo by Nicholas S. Tenorio, Public Affairs
First Class Petty Officer:
Interior Communications Electrician First Class Derek Alfaro Master-at-Arms First Class Ryan Mcclung Master-at-Arms First Class John Rudolph Logistics Specialist First Class Lisa Thepvongsa
Second Class Petty Officer:
Master-at-Arms Second Class Tatiana Adler Master-at-Arms Second Class Matthew Bakken Master-at-Arms Second Class Chantel Correa Machinist’s Mate Second Class Francisco Erianjaye Master-at-Arms Second Class Terryl Freeman Master-at-Arms Second Class William Furtado Builder Second Class Luis Garcia Air Traffic Controller Second Class Andrew Gaylord Air Traffic Controller Second Class Jason Gomez Master-at-Arms Second Class Trevor Helms Master-at-Arms Second Class Garrett Hendrickson Master-at-Arms Second Class Phantacy Leach Master-at-Arms Second Class Gabriela Lozano Master-at-Arms Second Class Dakota Mendez Master-at-Arms Second Class Harry Ortizdasta Master-at-Arms Second Class Kaile Oyler Master-at-Arms Second Class Brian Pakulski Master-at-Arms Second Class Catrina Pedrosa Logistics Specialist Second Class Gia Perez
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Master-at-Arms Second Class Yarian Rios Boatswain’s Mate Second Class Colin Sahlbom Master-at-Arms Second Class Jossette Salinas Master-at-Arms Second Class Curtis Scozzafava Information Systems Technician Second Class Antonio Shaw Master-at-Arms Second Class Savannah Truett Construction Electrician Second Class Enrique Velasques Master-at-Arms Second Class Alexandra Walowsky Air Traffic Conroller Second Class Henry Waterman
Third Class Petty Officer:
Master-at-Arms Third Class Brianna Antichevich Master-at-Arms Third Class Briana Bowen Hospital Corpsman Third Class Elizabeth Early Master-at-Arms Third Class Zachary Fears Equipment Operator Third Class Jiya Gannone Master-at-Arms Third Class Lendarius Graham Master-at-Arms Third Class Gavin Hunt Master-at-Arms Third Class Gabriel Labat Air Traffic Controller Third Class Jacob Lambert Mass Communication Specialist Third Class Karri Langerman Master-at-Arms Third Class Deanna Latimer Master-at-Arms Third Class Julian Littlejohn Master-at-Arms Third Class Aidan Lopez Master-at-Arms Third Class Danielle Morris Master-at-Arms Third Class Lucas Osborne Hospital Corpsman Third Class Jacqueline Reyes Master-at-Arms Third Class Blue Richison Master-at-Arms Third Class Logan Smith Hospital Corpsman Third Class Ashley Tschida Master-at-Arms Third Class Hunter Ware Air Traffic Controller Third Class Damion Young
During a June 16 ceremony in the base gym, Navy Capt. Rafael Facundo, NSA Souda Bay’s commanding officer, recognized Team Souda’s Sailors and civilians for their outstanding achievements.
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“Summer is Here” Beach Party Photos by Nicholas S. Tenorio, Public Affairs.
Souda Bay MWR organized a “Summer is Here” Beach Party on June 17 at Marathi Beach. Attendees enjoyed water sports, corn toss, a DJ and American barbecue served right on the beach. Goodbye Spring, Welcome Summer!
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The Parting Shot...
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