Triad Corner: CDR Michael Mosi

Team Souda,

Summer is here and I want you to make the most of your tour at NSA Souda Bay by working hard at your job and having fun! After a period of heavy workload like we recently experienced, we can take that deep breath and relax. MWR has the Liberty Center and Outdoor Recreation to help you have memorable experiences. Talking with people who have been here awhile is also a great way to find out about the best beaches, restaurants and other fantastic places to visit.

Regardless of where you go, it is important to me that while you’re out having fun, you’re also being safe. Take a look at the tips the Safety Office has starting on Page "Summer Safety" on page 42 for ways to enjoy summer activities without getting sidelined with an injury. Now that we are able to travel, you don’t want to watch summer pass you by because of a lapse in judgement.

I also want you to pay attention to the COVID Updates the Public Affairs team puts out via all-hands emails and on our official Facebook Page (www.facebook. com/NSASoudaBay). As guests in Greece, we are responsible for knowing and obeying our Host Nation’s laws, and this is the official information that has been reviewed and approved by CAPT Facundo. Don’t rely on rumors or what your neighbors are telling you – ignorance is never a valid excuse if you break the law.

In addition to having blue skies, warm weather and a beautiful country to explore, we’re also starting to get a lot of tourists on the island. Although they are going to provide a much-needed boost to the Greek economy, they aren’t as familiar with the roads as we are AND they are on vacation. So watch out for yourselves and for them — drive slowly and defensively. Pay particular attention when you are in a congested area like downtown Chania, and on the National Highway, where drivers don’t always obey the rules of the road, particularly when it comes to passing.

Please also make sure you are driving the speed limit in the village of Mouzouras, right outside our front gate. We need to be good ambassadors and good neighbors to our Greek hosts. There is no place to safely pass another vehicle on Mouzouras Road. The road is dangerous and this summer it has additional construction vehicles, buses, vans and rental cars. Slow down and give yourself the time you need to safely arrive at your destination!

We have a busy summer ahead of us – let’s work together to make sure that we are using each of our resources in a way that gives the Fleet the best support we can provide. If you aren’t sure about a request for services, run it up your chain of command. CAPT Facundo is committed to protecting our limited resources and he has the right of refusal; if you don’t think we can or should do something, float it higher. If you get an irregular request, even if you think we can support it, send that up the chain, too. We have a reputation for providing excellent support because we look hard at where and how we expend our resources.

Team Souda, I work for you and I’m proud to serve with you. Have a wonderful summer and please say hello when you see me out and about. I want to know how you’re doing!