The Beacon, October 2022

BEACON

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

COMMANDING OFFICER

Executive Officer

CAPT Odin J. Klug

Cmdr. Werner J. Rauchenstein

EXECUTIVE OFFICER CDR Michael Mosi 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

Beacon Staff/Public Affairs Office

PUBLIC AFFAIRS SPECIALIST Kostas Fantaousakis

PUBLIC AFFAIRS SPECIALIST MC2 Delaney S. Jensen

Jacky Fisher Joel Diller Kostas Fantaousakis

EMAIL

Public Affairs Officer, 266-1244

HOW TO CONTACT US

Assistant Public Affairs Officer, 266-1392

SoudaBayPAO@eu.navy.mil

ONLINE www.cnic.navy.mil/SoudaBay

PHONE +30 28210-21348

Community Relations, 266-1348

WRITE PSC814 BOX 1, FPO, AE, 09266

Contact Email (All PAO personnel):

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK facebook.com/NSASoudaBay

SoudaBayPAO@eu.navy.mil

The Beacon is the professional online newsletter of NSA Souda Bay Public Affairs. Information contained in The Beacon does not necessarily reflect the official views of the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense or the Department of the Navy. Editorial content is prepared by the Public Affairs Office of NSA Souda Bay.

The Beacon is the professional online newsletter of NSA Souda Bay Public Affairs. Information contained in The Beacon does not necessarily reflect the official views of the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense or the Department of the Navy. Editorial content is prepared by the Public Affairs Office of NSA Souda Bay.

Articles for publication in The Beacon should be submitted to SoudaBayPAO@eu.navy.mil Story submissions must be routed through tenant command or departmental senior leadership. Security and policy review must be completed before submissions can be considered for publication.

Articles for publication in The Beacon should be submitted to SoudaBayPAO@eu.navy.mil Story submissions must be routed through tenant command or departmental senior leadership. Security and policy review must be completed before submissions can be considered for publication.

Triad Corner

Team Souda,

I can already tell that October is going to be a good month for us! There are so many things to look forward to as we leave the summer months and enter a new fiscal year. Here are several important dates to put on your calendars:

• Oct. 13: The Navy’s 247th Birthday, with the theme “On Watch 24/7 for 247 Years”

• Oct. 14: The Navy Ball – you still have time to purchase your tickets!

• Oct. 21: Chief Petty Officer Pinning Ceremony

• Oct. 29: Trunk or Treat

• Dec. 9: Holiday Party

I’m a huge fan of planning ahead –especially when it comes to holiday leave. We have three official holiday leave periods this year; if you haven’t already submitted your leave chit, please make that a priority. We had a busy summer and that OPTEMPO will

continue into the fall, so make sure you are planning to take a break, relax and reset. The leave periods are:

• Nov. 15 – 30

• Dec. 13 – 28

• Dec. 28 – Jan. 12

As we head into the holidays, take the time to review your finances to ensure that you have a spending plan that your finances can easily support. Chief Lewis is our Command Financial Specialist, and he can provide assistance on many topics regarding managing your personal finances, including budgeting, debt management, understanding interest rates, making large purchases, and more. You can reach him at 266-1190.

Another area I’m encouraging you to focus on is your global situational awareness. Knowing what is going on in the world around you and understanding current events is important. Staying informed helps you

be a responsible and active citizen.

There are many resources that can help with this, but a new one for us at NSA Souda Bay is the free Stars and Stripes newspaper that is delivered daily. You can pick up a copy at the Minoan Taverna, the Post Office, The Anchor, the Library and NGIS.

The last thing I want to talk about is the high turnover rate we have at Souda Bay, with most tours being 12 months. While this can be challenging, it allows you to bring your experience from other commands and helps us review our policies and daily procedures with new eyes and a fresh perspective.

As we implement new processes throughout the base, I ask you to keep an open mind – I’m here to tell you that you can teach an old dog new tricks!

If you have an idea on how we can get better, please let your leadership know or drop a comment into one of the two CO’s Suggestion Boxes – located at the Galley and the Air Terminal.

On behalf of CAPT Klug and CMDR Mosi, thank you for all you do to keep Team Souda strong and mission-ready, and for all you have done and continue to do to make the world a better place.

Very Respectfully,

~ CMC

Ομάδα Σούδας, Μπορώ ήδη να σας πω ότι ο Οκτώβριος θα είναι ένας καλός μήνας για εμάς! Υπάρχουν τόσα πολλά πράγματα που πρέπει να περιμένουμε, καθώς αφήνουμε τους καλοκαιρινούς μήνες και μπαίνουμε σε ένα νέο οικονομικό έτος. Ακολουθούν ορισμένες σημαντικές ημερομηνίες για να προσθέσετε στο ημερολόγιό σας:

• 13 Οκτωβρίου: 247α γενέθλια του Πολεμικού Ναυτικού, με θέμα «Στην σκοπιά 24/7 για 247 χρόνια»

• 14 Οκτωβρίου:

Οκτ.:

Navy Ball.

δεν έχετε ήδη υποβάλει την αίτηση αδείας, βάλτε το ως προτεραιότητα.

Είχαμε ένα πολυάσχολο καλοκαίρι και αυτός ο ρυθμός εργασίας θα συνεχιστεί το φθινόπωρο, οπότε φροντίστε να κάνετε ένα διάλειμμα, να χαλαρώσετε και να ανανεωθείτε. Οι περίοδοι αδείας είναι:

• 15 – 30 Νοεμβρίου

• 13 – 28 Δεκεμβρίου

• 28 Δεκεμβρίου – 12 Ιανουαρίου Καθώς πλησιάζουμε στις διακοπές, αφιερώστε χρόνο για να αναθεωρήσετε τα οικονομικά σας και να βεβαιωθείτε ότι έχετε συντάξει ένα σχέδιο δαπανών που μπορεί εύκολα να τα υποστηρίξει. Ο Προϊστάμενος Υπαξιωματικός Lewis είναι ο Ειδικός Οικονομικών της Ευκολίας μας και μπορεί να σας βοηθήσει σε πολλά θέματα σχετικά με τη διαχείριση των προσωπικών σας οικονομικών, όπως τον

γεγονότα που λαμβάνουν μέρος στην εποχή που ζούμε. Είναι σημαντικό να γνωρίζετε τι συμβαίνει στον κόσμο γύρω σας και να κατανοείτε τα τρέχοντα γεγονότα. Το να μένεις ενημερωμένος σε βοηθά να είσαι υπεύθυνος και ενεργός πολίτης. Υπάρχουν πολλά μέσα που μπορούν να βοηθήσουν σε αυτό. Ένας νέος τρόπος ενημέρωσης για εμάς στην Ευκολία είναι η δωρεάν εφημερίδα Stars and Stripes που διατίθεται καθημερινά. Μπορείτε να παραλάβετε ένα έντυπο από την Ταβέρνα Minoan και το εστιατόριο Anchor, το Ταχυδρομείο, τη Βιβλιοθήκη και από την

Καθώς εφαρμόζουμε νέες διαδικασίες σε όλη τη μονάδα, σας ζητώ να έχετε ανοιχτό μυαλό. Μπορείτε να «διδάξετε νέα κόλπα σε έναν σκύλο μεγάλης ηλικίας», όπως συνηθίζουμε να λέμε. Εάν έχετε μια ιδέα για το πώς μπορούμε να γίνουμε καλύτεροι, ενημερώστε την ηγεσία σας ή αφήστε ένα σχόλιο σε ένα από τα δύο Κουτιά Προτάσεων για τον Διοικητή μας που βρίσκονται στο εστιατόριο Galley και στο Air Terminal. Εκ μέρους του Διοικητή Klug και του Υποδιοικητή Mosi, σας ευχαριστούμε για όλα όσα κάνετε για να διατηρήσετε την Ομάδα Σούδας ισχυρή και έτοιμη να φέρει σε πέρας την αποστολή της καθώς και για όλα όσα έχετε προσφέρει

συνεχίζετε

προσφέρετε

ECO

NSA Souda Bay’s MWR hosted the 19th Annual Eco-Challenge, a five-event sports competition held across Crete’s Akrotiri Peninsula on Oct. 1. The outdoor event is designed to build camaraderie and strengthen the U.S. relationship with NATO and Hellenic military partners. It includes a 10.4-kilometer hike, a 14.5-kilometer run, a 38.5-kilometer bike, a 4.3-kilometer kayak and a 2,000-meter swim.

“Eco-Challenge symbolizes the enduring, strengthening and deepening cooperation that the U.S. has with our partners here in Greece, and our NATO partners as well,” said Capt. Klug.

While usually held annually, this is the first Eco-Challenge to be held since 2019 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Six teams accepted this year’s challenge, with athletes from Commander, Task Group 67.4, the Hellenic Naval Base in Souda, the Hellenic Air Force’s 115th Combat Wing, the NATO Maritime Interdiction Training Center, NSA Souda Bay’s Fire & Emergency Services, and NSA Souda Bay’s Ward Room.

The spirit of partnership was also required for the planning and day-of support to ensure a safe and successful event. The Hellenic Air Force, Hellenic Coast Guard and Hellenic Navy all provided direct logistical support, that included standby emergency medical personnel, escort vehicles, and motor vehicle and boat traffic closures.

The competition was followed by an awards ceremony, during which Klug stated that the Eco-Challenge not only brings us together by encouraging friendly competition with our Greek partners, but it also forges relationships that will endure into the future.

Souda

&

Wing, Hellenic Air Force (4:48:20)

Base in Souda (5:16:01)

Athlete

Manolis

Souda Bay’s

Souda Bay’s

& Emergency

Markakis,

& Emergency

Ioannis Zentelis,

(1:11:49)

Combat Wing, Hellenic Air Force. Time: (1:18:15)

Kayak: Apostolos

Maritime Interdiction Training Center (0:29:16)

Swim: Konstantinos

Souda Bay’s Fire & Emergency Services (0:34:19)

Souda Spotlight:

Mate 2nd Class

Leading Petty Officer, Port Operations Rebecca Brook

By MC2 Delaney S. Jensen

Boatswains Mate 2nd Class Rebecca Brook, a native of Tampa, Fla., joined the Navy in August 2012 and arrived at NSA Souda Bay in April 2021. She works in Port Operations at the NATO Marathi Pier Complex. Brook has been in the Navy for more than 10 years and is the third generation in her family to join the military. She was NSA Souda Bay’s Sailor of the Quarter for the third quarter of 2022. She was also the Honor Boatswain for the change of command in July 2022.

What do you do at NSA Souda Bay?

I'm the Port Ops LPO, and our primary job here is oil spill prevention. When a U.S. ship pulls in we put an oil barrier boom around the ship. If the ship were to leak, the oil would be contained.

Besides the oil spill prevention, we also have harbor patrol boats that provide security for high value assets. The additional security allows assets that have reactors— like submarines and aircraft carriers—to be pier side. We can support pretty much anything that comes in, which is a great benefit to the Fleet.

What role does your department play for NSA Souda Bay?

Port Ops is on call 24/7 in case of an oil spill. We have a duty crew that stays within a reaction time of 30 minutes. They would be first on scene to evaluate. We are constantly on standby.

As the LPO in Port OPs, how well does your team work together?

The team is really good. They really love driving the boats. You can see the passion in their eyes when they go out there, and they get to learn. For example, during Facility Response Training drills, a lot of them really stepped up to learn the maneuvers and everything, so they have the knowledge. They like to learn.

What is your favorite thing about the work you do at NSA Souda Bay?

The view really! The view is crazy, especially in the winter time when we are out on the water. The snow makes white caps on the mountains right there, and the winter scenery is nice.

What are your long-term career goals?

Listen, I just want to make BM1. It is a huge goal for any E-5. I am also a junior in college, currently studying for a Bachelor's degree in data science. I can code Python now, so that's a fun fact.

When not at work, how do you spend your free time?

I often stay home to do homework, but I just took up yoga. I'm trying to ease my mind and practice good stress management.

What is something you enjoy about living in Greece and/or something you have learned about Greece since you started living here?

Something that is interesting is they have an olive oil season. Most places have a rainy season, but they have olive oil season and the roads are just as slippery.

Souda Spotlight: Air Terminal Operations Center Shift Supervisor Nikos Anastasakis

By Kostas Fantaousakis, Public Affairs

Nikos Anastasakis is a native of Chania and was hired by the U.S. Navy in November 2002 as a Single Point Entry Clerk at the NSA Souda Bay Air Terminal. He was promoted to Shift Supervisor, Air Terminal Operations Center, in 2012 and, as a flight line coordinator, he is responsible for operations at the Air Terminal Operation Center.

What is a typical day at NSA Souda Bay like for you?

The challenges every day vary and need to be met not only with success but also performed in a timely manner. My duties as a flight line coordinator include monitoring all ground handling operations while maintaining operational leadership of all ATOC resources. Other daily tasks include receiving, disseminating and documenting all flight line coordination efforts, while validating information and ramp controllers’ efforts for all aircraft traffic hosted on NSA Souda Bay.

What role does ATOC play for NSA Souda Bay?

The Air Terminal Operations Center serves as the airfield's focal point from which all information relating to aircraft traffic flow is received, processed and dispatched to each air terminal work center. We serve as the primary point of contact and liaison for all Air Terminal matters requiring approval or coordination with the Hellenic Air Force’s 115th Combat Wing, and we ensure cooperation and coordination with Chania’s civilian airport when needed.

What has been a career highlight here?

During the last 20 years of service, there have been many career highlights… There is one incident though with its own sentimental value. Recently, a Sailor on board a U.S. ship somewhere in the Mediterranean had to be medically evacuated with a helicopter from the ship to the closest hospital ashore. This was

an urgent matter as flight plans had to be created and approved and proper authorities from both the U.S. and the Greek side had to be informed, while constantly being in communication with the ship, the Greek base and the civilian hospital where the Sailor would have to be flown. All aforementioned actions were completed from the time the phone call was placed to the time that the ambulance received the patient in 22 minutes! We received an email later from the ship that all went well and that the patient was well and recovering.

When not at work, what do you enjoy doing?

I am the founder of a motorcycle group located in Chania that does charity rides and fundraisers to support people in need and organizations that help children and their families in their struggle against cancer. We also support the local Boys Center and other institutions located on the island of Crete that deal with kids that are battling with neurological or movement disability issues. Fishing and organic farming are two other activities that I have been doing since I was a child and I enjoy the most .

What is something else you want Team Souda to know about you or the work you do at NSA Souda Bay?

We are here to support! The base may be small in size but NSA Souda Bay delivers! After all, the most expensive perfumes are contained in small containers...

Souda Spotlight:

Patrick Brown Air Terminal Manager

By Nicholas S. Tenorio, Public Affairs

Patrick Brown is the Air Operations Air Terminal Manager at NSA Souda Bay. Brown is a native of Sacramento, Calif., though he considers himself to be a “nomad” after living and working in many different places. He enlisted in the Air Force directly out of high school where he spent 10 years working in the air transportation career specialty. Prior to arriving onboard NSA Souda Bay in December 2021, he was employed by the U.S. Air Force at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska.

What do you do at NSA Souda Bay?

As the Air Operations Air Terminal Manager, I oversee and support the safe and secure processing, preparation and loading and downloading of passengers and cargo transported on military and DoD-contracted aircraft originating, terminating and/or transiting the NSA. In other words, I deal with all the people and cargo that transit NSA Souda Bay’s airfield.

How does your work contribute to overall operational readiness?

The Air Terminal team consists of nine Sailors—all Logistics Specialists—and 34 local national employees who are all motivated and dedicated to executing the mission. On a daily basis we support cargo and passenger movements, which in turn support overall U.S. naval operations. This has a direct positive impact on the EURAFCENT mission.

What has been a career highlight here?

For me, executing ship crew swap missions is always a special moment. With regard to my own team, I get to witness our air ops professionals hone their craft. Simultaneously, it’s an important moment for ensuring the continuity of our county’s national security objectives. Our team is supporting the departing Sailors on their way to returning home safely, while simultaneously we’re ensuring that the arriving Sailors are in place.

What is something you have found interesting/surprising about Greece since living here?

I have gained a renewed appreciation for history and an understanding of the genesis of Western Civilization. Being surrounded by so much historical significance really puts things in a different perspective. For example, the structures and associated infrastructure of historical spots like Knossos and the Venetian fortresses; it’s amazing how well built and planned out they were with the lack of so-called “modern” technology. The ancient people of Greece and those that have transited before us, in many ways, really had their acts together.

How do you spend your free time in Crete?

I spend my free time traveling Crete and Europe with my wife and two young kids. I also enjoy spending time at the beach and eating the local cuisine.

What would you like Team Souda to know about your work?

Team Souda may find it interesting that—as a Navy-operated Air Mobility Command air terminal—the air terminal at NSA Souda Bay is a Navy-Air Force hybrid organization. We offer Space Available travel opportunities on military aircraft and DoD-contracted missions like the Patriot Express. Contact the Passenger Terminal at 266-1275 for more information.

AROUND NSA SOUDA BAY

Awards Reenlistments

Events Operations

AWARDS AT QUARTERS FOR SEP. 15

JOINT SERVICE ACHIEVEMENT MEDAL

Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jacob Vernier

NAVY AND MARINE CORPS COMMENDATION MEDAL

Chief Boatswain's Mate Andre Edwards

NAVY AND MARINE CORPS ACHIEVEMENT MEDAL

Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 1st Class Brandon Patton-Jones

Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 2nd Class Kimany Phillip

FLAG LETTER OF COMMENDATION

Master-at-Arms 1st Class Erica Simmons

LETTER OF COMMENDATION

Master-at-Arms 2nd Class Steven Rivera-Gerena

CIVILIAN LENGTH OF SERVICE AWARDS

Ms. Styliani Charissi (20 Years)

Mr. Brett Dykema (15 Years)

Mr. Jonathan Torrez (10 Years)

Capt. Odin Klug, NSA Souda Bay’s commanding officer, recognizes Team Souda’s Sailors and civilians for their outstanding

during an awards ceremony at the Fitness Center on Sep. 15. Photo by Nicholas S. Tenorio, Public Affairs

REMEMBRANCE CEREMONY9/

Team Souda held a ceremony to commemorate the 21st anniversary of 9/11 on Sept. 9. The ceremony included the customary retelling of events of 9/11, a laying of a ceremonial wreath and the reading of an original poem by Firefighter Matthew Labrise. Team Souda stood together to honor the lives lost on 9/11 and the sacrifices that have followed.

Capt. Odin J. Klug, commanding officer, addresses attendees.

Story and photos by MC2 Delaney S. Jensen Sailors attend the 21st anniversary of 9/11.

Fire Chief Timothy Dias and Chief Master-at-Arms Amanda Sierras lay a wreath commemorating the 21st anniversary of 9/11.

The Modern Day FIREFIGHTER

The modern day fire fighter wears more than just one hat. We’re rescue techs, EMT’s, mitigators of hazmat. Whatever the response zone’s dangers might require, Chances are, we made a cert. for that. Ice rescue, Swiftwater, Wildland, Confined Space, CBRNE, Vehicle Extrication, all the aircraft on any base.

Whatever the task — whether it‘s climbing 100’ ladder rungs, Or performing artfully as someone's heart and lungs; Whether searching victims in the heat and pitch black, Or hanging from a thin rope on a breaker bar rack, We got your back.

You see the modern day firefighter is the bearer of much love. Our focus reaches outward to you, and above. The ultimate sacrifice is an obvious accord. We are in the business of weighing risk against reward, And if the scales ever tip, and our options run completely out,

Consider it our honor . Know that beyond a doubt. On the exterior, we are typically joking and making light. But inside, we are quite seriously game for the fight.

For life, property, the environment, and what’s right, And one perpetually nagging thought: What’s for dinner tonight?

Firefighter Matthew Labrise NSA Souda Bay Fire & Emergency Services

Firefighter Matthew Labrise recites his original poem in honor of the 21st anniversary of 9/11. Photo by MC2 Delaney S. Jensen

REMEMBRANCE RUN9/

Firefighter Prasakis Emmanouil bears an American flag prior to the 9/11 Remembrance Run. Photo by Nicholas S. Tenorio

Team Souda participates in a 9/11 Remembrance Run. Photo by Nicholas S. Tenorio

Firefighter Matthew Labrise delivers opening remarks prior to the 9/11 Remembrance Run. Photo by Nicholas S. Tenorio

N

SA Souda Bay's Fire & Emergency Services team held a Remembrance Run to commemorate the 21st anniversary of 9/11 on Sept. 9. NSA Souda Bay's firefighters donned their bunker gear before the run to better understand the challenges the firefighters on 9/11 faced. Sailors and other members of Team Souda ran alongside them to show support.

LEFT: Lt. Cmdr. Joshua Hickman, base chaplain, holds a Captain America shield prior to the 9/11 Remembrance Run. Photo by Nicholas S. Tenorio

RIGHT: Master-at-Arms 1st Class Angela Sweeney and Military Working Dog Diego pose for a picture after the run. Photo by Nicholas S. Tenorio

Team Souda participates in a 9/11 Remembrance Run. Photo by MC2 Delaney S. Jensen

Collaborative Port Security Training

Sailors assigned to NSA Souda Bay Port Operations, Sailors assigned to NAVSTA Rota on temporary assigned duty and Joe Longaker, small craft operations expert from Naval Base Kitsap, Wash., pose together after Barrier Boat Training on Sept. 27.

S ailors assigned to the NSA Souda Bay Port Operations team train ed with Sailors on temporarily assigned duty from Naval Station Rota, Spain, on the proper operation of the newly-received 30-foot work boats. Joe Longaker, small craft expert from Naval Base Kitsap, Wash., guided the Sailors on how to safely maneuver around the port to execute mission essential tasks.

“These new 30-foot work boats will be used to open and close th e port's passive security barrier which is used to protect vessels in port as we ll as move port support equipment between the piers in support of various U.S. Navy missions,” said Lt. Jonathan Fleming, Port Operations officer. “The training lasted one week and was enormously valuable for Port Operations Sailors, NSA Souda Bay and the fleet at large.”

Joe Longaker, small craft operations expert from Naval Base Kitsap, Wash., trains Engineman 3rd Class Amber Badoni, TAD from NAVSTA Rota, to perform a safe approach with the new barrier boat.

Engineman 3rd Class Amber Badoni, TAD from Naval Station Rota, Spain, participates in the Barrier Boat Training hosted by NSA Souda Bay Port Operations.

Story and photos by MC2 Delaney S. Jensen, Public Affairs

Live Fire Training with the CO

Story and photos by MC2 Delaney S. Jensen

Personnel assigned to NSA Souda Bay, the NSA Souda Bay Fire & Emergency Services team, the 115th Combat Wing, Hellenic Air Force, Chania Fire Brigade, Chania Airport Fire Station and Capt. Klug pose for a photo after Live Fire Training.

Capt. Klug and personnel assigned to the NSA Souda Bay Fire & Emergency Services team participate in Live Fire Training on Sept. 30.

Capt. Odin J. Klug signed a Fire Prevention Week Proclamation on Sept. 30. The proclamation is an official declaration by Klug to promote fire and life safety during the 2022 Fire Prevention Week, Oct. 9-15. The theme this year is “Fire Won’t Wait. Plan Your Escape.” Following the signing, Klug participated in a Live Fire Training conducted in NSA Souda Bay’s new two-story Structural Live Fire Training Device. Personnel from the 115th Combat Wing, Hellenic Air Force, Chania Fire Brigade and Chania Airport Fire Station were in attendance for the Training.

Capt. Klug and personnel assigned to the NSA Souda Bay Fire & Emergency Services team participate in Live Fire Training.

Capt. Klug signs a Fire Prevention Week Proclamation on Sept. 30.

Active Shooter Training with a Twist

Story and photos by MC2 Delaney S. Jensen

Team Souda Sailors assigned to Naval Support Activity Souda Bay had artificial injuries, often referred to as moulage, applied before participating in an Active Shooter Drill on Sept. 27. Assistant Fire Chief Logan Rodgers and his wife, Cailey, who is a professional makeup artist, applied the moulage to make the drill feel more authentic. The fake wounds simulated real-life injuries, providing the responders on scene with a more realistic experience. Team Souda conducts Active Shooter Drills quarterly, but the introduction to moulage was a new and different training technique to keep our Sailors at the ready.

Before:

Moulage wounds on both arms: Builder Seaman Mark Allen

wound to the shoulder:

Boatswain’s

Dog Bite Training with the CO

Story and photos by MC2 Delaney S. Jensen

Capt. Klug dons the training bite suit with the assistance of Master-at-Arms 2nd Class Kenneth Reynolds.

Capt. Odin J. Klug participates in Dog Bite Training with Master-at-Arms 1st Class Angela Sweeney and Military Working Dog Diego.

Team Souda Sailors participated in Dog Bite Training with Capt. Klug on Sept. 23. Klug, with the assistance of Team Souda security personnel, donned the training suit prior to the exercise to experience the pressure of the bite for himself. The military working dog, Diego, has been onboard NSA Souda Bay since January and has been training with Master-at-Arms 1st Class Angela Sweeney for five months.

Sailors assigned to NSA Souda Bay’s Security Team; Capt. Klug and Cmdr. Mosi, pose together after completing a successful Dog Bite Training.

Capt. Klug, pets Military Working Dog Diego with Master-at-Arms 1st Class Angela Sweeney.

Minoan Taverna Menu Review Board

Story and photo by Kostas Fantaousakis, Public Affairs

Naval Support Activity Souda Bay’s Minoan Taverna hosted a menu review board

September 16. During the review board, the food service officer, Chief Warrant Officer Kelly Williams, discussed agenda items with attendees. Command Master Chief Igor Vargas also attended the meeting.

“The menu review board is an opportunity for patrons to provide feedback on the services and menu selections of the Minoan Tavern and allows us to provide feedback about the desires and needs of the crew to Region so we can get adjustments,” said Williams. “We had a great turnout and a lot of constructive feedback,” she added.

“I recommended that we have more plant-based food protein options,” said Yeoman 2nd Class Erica Williams who participated in the menu review board. “Personally, I am a pescatarian and sometimes struggle to get protein, so some fish items throughout the week would be helpful as sometimes there is nothing I can eat besides a salad.”

“End of Summer” Beach Party

Photos by Nicholas S. Tenorio, Public Affairs.

Souda Bay MWR organized an “End of Summer” Beach Party at Marathi Beach on Sept. 16. Attendees enjoyed water sports, corn toss, a DJ and American barbecue served right on the beach.

Goodbye Summer, Welcome Fall!

End of Summer Beach Party

Community Outreach: Outdoor Beautification Project

Story and photos by MC2 Delaney S. Jensen, Public Affairs

Sailors pose for a group picture after completing an outdoor beautification volunteer event on Sept. 10.

On

Sept. 10, NSA Souda Bay volunteers, including the 2022 Chief Selects, participated in an outdoor beautification project at the Daily Care Center for Children and Young Adults of Chania.

“It’s good honest work and is fulfilling afterword. You are helping people out that can’t necessarily take it all on their own, so that’s always a good feeling,” said Master-atArms 2nd Class Vianca Correrea.

Through these volunteer efforts, Sailors gave back to the community while getting to know some of their fellow shipmates.

“I think it is good to help out the local community, as well as, it brings us all together,” said Master-at-Arms 1st Class Tia Yau, one of the 2022 Chief Selects. “A lot of us are overseas without family, so we are each other’s family. It’s a good opportunity to get to know people you don’t work with on a daily basis and make new connections.”

If you are interested in volunteer opportunities, contact MAC Kathleen Cottle, Chapel Chief, at 266-1204, or 282-102-1204.

Sailors work together to complete outdoor beautification volunteer event.

Master-at-Arms 1st Class Tia Yau, rakes leaves during an outdoor beautification volunteer event.

Master-at-Arms 2nd Class Vianca Correrea (left) and Logistics Specialist 1st Class Smith Garner (right), trim hedges during an outdoor beautification volunteer event.

Community Outreach: Kalathas Beach Clean-Up

Photos by Kostas Fantaousakis, Public Affairs

Sailors from the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile destroyer USS Leyte Gulf (CG 55), homeported in Norfolk, Va., participated in a community outreach event in Chania, Crete on Sept. 29. The volunteers collected trash from Kalathas Beach. Their work greatly contributed to the local authorities’ effort to preserve the scenic environment.

Community Outreach: Burger Burn

OnSept. 17, 28 volunteers from NSA Souda Bay, barbecued burgers and hot dogs at the Daily Care Center for Children and Young Adults of Chania. Chief Selectees, Public Works Department Sailors, and 12 boys from the Daily Care Center spent the day playing games and barbecuing.

If you are interested in future fellowship and community relations projects contact MAC Kathleen Cottle, Chapel Chief, at 266-1204, or 282-102-1204.

Photos by LCDR Joshua Hickman, Command Chaplain

Driving in Crete: Don't

Story by Garvin Purtteman, Safety Director

The

island of Crete is a wonderful place to be. It is a place full of wonderful people to meet and amazing things to do. However, driving to your destination can become dangerous if your attention is not directly focused on the road.

What is Distracted Driving?

Distracted driving is any activity that could divert a person’s attention away from the primary task of driving. A distraction is anything that endangers a driver, passenger or bystander’s safety.

Attention Is Key!

Even though the speed limits on the island are relatively low, the roads are full of potholes, hills, forks, switchbacks and dead ends. Roads become increasingly dangerous too as we roll into the winter months: potholes become ponds in the road; dirt and gravel fall from the hills above causing a skid hazard; and cars speeding past your vehicle can put you into a tight spot. The key is to always be focused on the road.

How to be Prepared for the Road

• Use your brakes and accelerator as you would on snow; soft and easy. When roads get wet they are very slippery, especially during the first rains when oil residue, dust and foliage on the road surface cause it to become slick.

• Reduce speed during and immediately after heavy rain. Poor or non-existent drainage systems on the roads cause them to flood with 10 to 15 inches of water, causing vehicles to stall or hydroplane. Heavy rainfall causes the road surface to break up, creating potholes that are not visible under the puddles.

• Beware of rock and mud slides, especially on the national highway. As the rains loosen the ground you will frequently find the road blocked by rock and plant debris.

• Look out for sudden patches of fog. In some areas, fog may appear and reduce your visibility suddenly, especially early in the morning. Do not use high beams as this results in even further reduced visibility.

Be a Distracted Driver

Types of Distractions in Crete:

There are many distractions that can take your focus off the road for a short time that can cause a mishap. Whether it is a beautiful piece of scenery, an animal in the road, a ringing phone, eating a gyro, grooming your face, using a navigation device, picking up something that dropped, or just turning up the stereo.

Keep Your Focus on the Road or Pull Over!

It is important for you to be mindful of all distractions and acknowledge them when they happen. If you want to do anything other than drive, look for a safe spot to pull over before you do. If you are in a safe location and pulled over to the side of the road, you don't have any risk of getting into an accident due to being distracted.

Don't fall prey to distractions and keep your focus on the road. Have a safe and enjoyable experience in Crete this winter. Stay alert and drive to arrive!

Conditions in Crete this Winter:

• Reduce speeds and keep your eyes open. Be sure to stick to the posted speed limits, especially when driving through villages, such as Mouzouras. Cars may be illegally stopped, pedestrians may be walking on the road, and heavy vehicles, such as trash trucks and buses, travel the road constantly.

• Be alert to the actions of fellow drivers. Buses make unscheduled stops, cars stop on the side of the road and motorcycles pass you in areas where they should not. On agricultural back roads, farmers park beside the road to load their crops and equipment.

• Be sure to inspect your vehicle. Check your tire condition, windshield wipers and fluid level, and defrosters.

• Remember to always buckle up and keep alert!

Courtesy Asset

OHI Day: Celebrating Greece's “Day of NO”

Information and images: Encyclopedia.com, Wikipedia

October 28, a day of national celebration in Greece, is remembered as the day Greek Prime Minister Ioannis Metaxas rejected an ultimatum from Italian dictator Benito Mussolini in Oct. 1940. It is named “Ohi” Day (Greek word for ‘No’) in remembrance of the Greek resistance to the Italian invasion during World War II. On this day, military and student parades take place in Athens and in all major cities across Greece. In Chania, typically the parade starts at Noon at the Chania Courthouse Square and ends at the Market Square.

A History Lesson

In the summer of 1940, Italian dictator Benito Mussolini adopted an increasingly menacing stance toward Greece, authorizing the torpedoing of the Greek cruiser Elli, stationed off the island of Tenos, on Aug. 15.

On the eve of Oct. 28, 1940, Italy's ambassador in Athens handed an ultimatum from Mussolini to Metaxas demanding free passage for Italian troops to occupy unspecified ‘strategic points’ inside Greek territory. Metaxas rejected the ultimatum with the words, ‘Alors, c'est la guerre’ (French for “Then, it is war.”). In this he echoed the will of the Greek people to resist, a will which was popularly expressed in one word: “Ohi” (Όχι). Within hours, Italian troops began attacking Greece from Albania.

The Italian invasion of northwest Greece was quickly repulsed by Greek forces, who captured a substantial area of southern Albania before coming to a halt due to atrocious weather. The Italian forces were stronger in artillery and mortars than the Greeks and enjoyed absolute superiority in air forces – but the Italians did not exploit their advantage properly. The Greek army spent all their available resources on defense and counterattack and as a consequence put up little resistance to Operation Marita (the German attack on the Greek mainland) in April 1941.

Despite the ultimate triumph of the Axis powers during their campaign in Greece, the Greek resistance to the Italian invasion, according to several historians, greatly affected the course of World War II. More specifically, it has been argued that the need for a German intervention in the Balkans delayed Operation

Barbarossa (code name for the German invasion of the Soviet Union), and caused losses, especially in aircraft and paratroopers, during the airborne invasion of Crete.

The Greek struggle received exuberant praise at the time — most prominently from Winston Churchill, who said, “Hence we will not say that Greeks fight like heroes, but that heroes fight like Greeks.”

Greek soldiers celebrating New Year on the Albanian Front, Jan. 1, 1941.

Painting by Alexandros Alexandrakis, depicting Greek soldiers in the Greek-Italian War (1941) during a bayonet charge.

Evzones attack on the Albanian front. The Evzones or Evzonoi were historically elite light infantry and mountain units of the Greek army. Today, they are the members of the Presidential Guard.

Unit of the Greek army during the Spring Offensive (Spring 1941) in the Greco-Italian War.

Greek cruiser Elli. The Italian submarine Delfino sank her during peacetime, at 8:25 am on 15 Aug. 15, 1940, while she rode at anchor near the island of Tinos participating in the celebrations of the Feast of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary. Nine petty officers and Sailors were killed and 24 were wounded.

Greek soldier with his mother before departure for the Albanian front.

The Parting Shot...