The Beacon by USS BLUE RIDGE (LCC 19)

CONTENTS

-ON THE HORIZONSTORY BY NETC PUBLIC AFFAIRS

Sailors have an even wider array of opportunities to earn civilian certifications and licenses funded through Navy Credentialing Opportunities On-line (COOL) with a Navy policy update July 24. CHANGE OF COMMAND 4

ARE YOU READY? 8

Navy COOL’s website at www.cool.navy.mil provides information about licenses and certifications applicable to all Navy occupations, offering resources and funding to help Sailors gain appropriate civilian desired, and in many cases required, credentials. Here is what’s new: • Credentials Earned and Maintained Prior to Joining the Navy. • Prior Other-Service Enlisted Occupation. • Opportunities for Cross-Rated Sailors. • Opportunities for Navy Reservists. I • Opportunities Related to Off-Duty or CommandSponsored Training. • Opportunities Related to Academic Degrees. As with any credential, Sailors must meet all other eligibility criteria and the certification or license vendors' requirements.

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TEAM BEACON MEDIA DEPARTMENT

LEADERSHIP

PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICER

COMMANDING OFFICER

LEAD DESIGNER

EXECUTIVE OFFICER

PRODUCERS

COMMAND MASTER CHIEF

MCC CHARLES L. LUDWIG MC2 DYLAN MCKAY

MC1 MARVIN E. THOMPSON JR. MC2 ADAM K. THOMAS MC2 PATRICK SEMALES MC2 ETHAN CARTER MCSN BRANDON L. HARRIS MCSN SARAH EATON MCSN MATTHEW HALL

CAPT CRAIG C. SICOLA

CDR BENJAMIN E. NEHRKE

Navy COOL is a program through Naval Education and Training Command as part of MyNavy HR force development, which ensures that Sailors are equipped with the specific skills they need to do their jobs and have access to educational opportunities to enhance their careers. Sailors can also take advantage of other programs that promote continuous self-improvement through the United Services Military Apprenticeship Program (USMAP) and the Navy College Program.

COVER PHOTO

EXPLORE JAPAN 6

CMDCM JAMES W. GRANT

Change Of Command Ceremony Photo taken by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Dylan McKay

The Beacon is an authorized publication for Sailors aboard USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19). Contents herein are not the views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. government, Department of Defense, Department of the Navy or the Commanding Officer of USS Blue Ridge. All news, photos and information for publication in The Beacon must be submitted to the Public Affairs Officer. Produced by Blue Ridge Media Services Ext. 4154

... and safety STORY & PHOTOS BY MC2 ETHAN CARTER

Capt. Sicola Takes Command Story by MC2 Adam Thomas Photos by MC2 Dylan McKay

YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) – Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet (C7F) Navy. Upon officially taking command, he took a moment to flagship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) held a change of command highlight the accomplishments the Blue Ridge team achieved ceremony on the ship’s main deck, Dec. 12. over the course of its 49-year history. Capt. Craig C. Sicola relieved Capt. Eric J. Anduze as commanding officer in front of a crowd of distinguished visitors, guests and crew. The ceremony marked the end of Anduze’s command, which began Nov. 16, 2018. “For the last 13 months, I have been fortunate to have one of the best jobs in the Navy,” Anduze said in his farewell remarks. “There were certainly long days and maintenance challenges that tested all of our skills and patience, but being part of this Blue Ridge team has been amazing.” Sicola took over as the ship’s 31st commanding officer, taking over the oldest active commissioned warship in the U.S.

“I am truly blessed to be here today, and I thank you for entrusting me to command this prestigious warship. It is quite an honor,” Sicola said. “The new year will bring us new operational challenges and amazing opportunities in which we will succeed together, as this ship has done for almost five decades.” Displaying that drive was the mission of the current Blue Ridge crew. Under Anduze’s command, they worked to push the ship through its final basic phase and warfare certifications, type commander (TYCOM) ready-for-sea assessment, and more than 26,000 nautical miles of safe underway operation, ensuring a mission-ready platform for the C7F mission. They also navigated through 11 port calls in seven nations, greatly strengthening relationships and trust

with vital partners in the region. During the ceremony, Commander, Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 7, Rear Adm. Fred W. Kacher showcased the crew’s numerous achievements led by Anduze. “Those achievements don’t happen by accident, and although (Capt. Anduze) would be the first to say his Sailors did the work to earn them – we all know that leadership starts at the top. I am incredibly proud of you and your entire team and wish you great success.” Kacher said during his keynote remarks. “(Capt. Sicola), you will be a superb addition to our forward-deployed team and join us with an impressive list of your own accomplishments. I have tremendous confidence in you and am thrilled to have you on our team.” For all the ship’s achievements in the last 13 months, Anduze said he had no one to thank more than the ship’s crew.

“It has been my honor being your Captain. You have made my job easy, your professionalism, dedication, and mission accomplishment are amazing,” he said. “Words cannot express the admiration and respect I have for your accomplishments and the support you provided me. I will always be in your debt. Continue to thrive, continue to become experts at your trade, (and) don’t ever give up.” Sicola, a native of Dallas, graduated from Texas A&M University in 1994 and became a Naval Aviator in 1997. He assumes command of Blue Ridge after serving as the executive officer aboard USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69). Blue Ridge, part of ESG 7, is the oldest operational ship in the Navy and has been the U.S. 7th Fleet flagship since 1979. As the U.S. 7th Fleet command ship, Blue Ridge actively fosters relationships in support of security and stability within the IndoAsia Pacific Region.

EXPLORE JAPAN

KANNONZAKI STORY BY MCSN MATTHEW JAMES HALL

fine art museum, Kannonzaki has a little something for

ven before being stationed in Japan, the country’s

culture, andstationed nature can hold a the certain ven landmarks before being in Japan, country’s fascination for many Sailors. so far from culture, landmarks and natureHowever, can holdbeing a certain home and moving away fromHowever, relatives being can also fascination for many Sailors. so cause far from apprehension. Oneaway way of dealing withcan thealso uncertainty home and moving from relatives cause isapprehension. to immerse yourself in the culture outside Yokosuka, One way of dealing with theofuncertainty perhaps in nature. Give theoutside chanceoftoYokosuka, experience is to immerse yourself in yourself the culture something Possibly place where one can breathe perhaps innew. nature. Give ayourself the chance to experience new air, feel new dirt beneath feetone andcan gobreathe something new. Possibly a placetheir where somewhere never seen or heard before. new air, feelthey’ve new dirt beneath their feet of and go somewhere they’ve never seen or heard of before. One’s desire might lead them to Kannonzaki Park, a relatively large nature the easternPark, end a of the One’s desire might leadreserve them toonKannonzaki Miura Peninsula. Boasting coastal hiking relatively large nature reserve onand the mountain eastern end of the

everyone. fine art museum, Kannonzaki has athe little something for Kannonzaki is named for Kannon, Japanese goddess everyone. of mercy. In Buddhism, Kannon is known as a Bodhisattva, meaning she prolonged her own enlightenment in order to Kannonzaki is named for Kannon, the Japanese goddess stay on Earth and help the suffering. It is also the place of mercy. In Buddhism, Kannon is known as a Bodhisattva, where Gulliver (protagonist of Jonathan Swift’s Gulliver’s meaning she prolonged her own enlightenment in order to Travels) and separately, Godzilla, took their first steps in stay on Earth and help the suffering. It is also the place Japan. where Gulliver (protagonist of Jonathan Swift’s Gulliver’s A calming 45-minute bus Godzilla, ride up Yokosuka’s Street,in Travels) and separately, took their Blue first steps through Japan. the city and along a scenic coastal road leads you into the heart of Kannonzaki. The bus stop there is at A calming 45-minute busgoing ride up a crossroads, each way to aYokosuka’s different Blue part Street, of the

trails, ocean views, acoastal flowerand park, and a nearby Miurascenic Peninsula. Boasting mountain hiking

through park. the city and along a scenic coastal road leads you into the heart of Kannonzaki. The bus stops at a crossroad,

trails, scenic ocean views, a flower park, and a nearby

each way going to a different part of the park.

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MIRON

One path leads to either the beach or elevates slightly

Although the hike can be a little rough, most of the trail has

along the coastal cliffs. The beach is probably best in the

stairs. Once at the top, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re treated to wide-open grassy

summer months, perfect for picnicking with loved ones and

fields and beautiful flower gardens. Sculptures and standing

friends.

stones dot the landscape. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s even a playground with

The coastal cliffs walk, on the other hand, offers a beautiful

long slides and ziplines for children to enjoy.

ocean view below, as well as old military structures that

Once one has had time to take in the beautiful vistas,

date back to when the former Imperial Japanese Army used

they can head back down the mountain to check out the

the park as a fortress. Along the trail, you will also get your

Yokosuka Museum of Art featuring more than 5,000 pieces,

first view of the famed Kannonzaki Lighthouse.

mostly focusing on Japanese artists.

French engineers designed and constructed the original

The area around Kannonzaki Park also features restaurants,

lighthouse in 1869. However, the version you can see there

hotels, a nature museum and a spa for those who would like

today was built in 1925, after earthquakes twice destroyed

a bit of relaxation after the sightseeing adventure.

the original structure. The landmark is the first Western-style lighthouse built in Japan.

Kannonzaki offers up a fantastic experience in Japan. The peaceful nature, beautiful sights and rich history make it

The second of the two paths, in the opposite direction

a must-see spot that might just help a lonely Sailor feel at

from the beach, leads up a large hill and into the woods.

more at peace with their surroundings.

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ARE YOU READY? STORY BY MCSN SARAH EATON // PHOTO BY MC2 DYLAN MCKAY

nce a Sailor is assigned to a ship, deployment becomes something that is always in the back of their minds. They can’t control when, where or for how long they’ll deploy. However, they can control how prepared they are prior to departing. Although being physically ready and having all the items you need is important, ensuring you are mentally prepared is even more imperative. Cryptologic Technician 2nd Class Kathleen E. Wayman was assigned to USS Theodore Roosevelt out of Norfolk, VA., for her first deployment and recalled how not being fully prepared took a toll on her. “At first, it began as a smooth transition with help from my shipmates,” said Wayman. “But I started to become overwhelmed at the size of the ship and as time wore on and the deployment date arrived, reality kicked in.” The realization the she would soon be leaving her husband, family and more specifically her child behind began setting in, and that made getting settled difficult. “I wasn't ready to leave my child,” said Wayman. “I sat on the deck in front of my rack and balled my eyes out. I couldn't even open my sea bag.”

In addition to new friends, having family to connect with back home was a huge help for Wayman. “I was able to keep in contact with my family so that made things easier for me to handle,” said Wayman. In addition to learning to be more mentally prepared, Wayman made sure to have the things that are necessary to improve her living conditions while on board the ship. “At first, I started to prepare my rack, making sure I had all I needed during deployment,” said Wayman. “I brought towels, personal hygine products, civilian clothes, and baby wipes - always bring baby wipes for when the ship runs out of toilet paper. Bring sunscreen if you plan to be in the sun and books to read.” “Take advantage of the college courses that the ship may provide and movies are good for when you have downtime, keep a journal if you're the type of person who enjoys writing out your thoughts.” With all she’s learned, Wayman feels more optimistic when it comes to deployments.

However, with time and the help of new friends made aboard the ship, she began to get situated and eventually became more comfortable.

“With everyday life, always have a plan; no matter how small the task. You will go through ups and downs, but in the end, it will pass. You'll be able to continue on with what you are assigned and be able to fulfill the mission at hand.”

“Luckily I had plenty of help,” said Wayman. “I had friends who already experienced deployments and being away from family so they provided not only a shoulder to cry on, but the ground for me to stand on.”

Blue Ridge is the oldest operational ship in the Navy, and as 7th Fleet command ship, is responsible for patrolling and fostering relationships within the Indo-Asia Pacific Region.

Heart and Soul A

of the Party

mong USS Blue Ridge’s many fine Sailor’s, there hides a great wealth of talent and creativity. For some, expressing their hidden skills comes easily. While others may not be aware of their blooming potential. Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Darius Moody, is one of the talented cultivators of expression and he brings his love of creativity aboard Blue Ridge helping make it a better place. Moody is a DJ, and a well-respected one at that.

“The first inspiration for me to become a DJ came from a friend of mine back in Rota, Spain,” said Moody. “He was our local DJ and we were sort of his moving crowd. I liked the vibe that he brought to the party scene and it intrigued me how well he brought two songs together to create a smooth transition. My musical influences spread genres; but my favorites have to be Runtown, Anderson .Paak, Nipsey Hussle, Mac Miller, J. Cole and Tekno.” Moody prefers to mix Afrobeats, which he described as a newly popular genre of music which keeps the vibe of the party up and he gets a sense of euphoria from being a DJ. Whenever he makes a good mix of songs, he can tell the crowd is following his rhythm, it's almost as if he is the artist himself. “I get a lot of joy from it,” said Moody. “DJing is really just taking the playlist you would listen to in your headphones and spinning it for a room. And if they like it then they follow your choice of music. To me that’s cool.” Moody was raised in a musical household. Every Saturday and Sunday morning his mom would play her favorite albums while she cleaned. Growing up in that environment really helped to encourage his love for music. Be sure to witness Moody as he weaves a symphony of rhythm and melody. You can find him on any beautiful weekend night playing a hip club in the Honch. A modern Renaissance man and Sailor. You never know who you might be passing in the P-ways on our mighty Blue Ridge. Days in the Navy may blur together, and when the stress of sea life takes its toll, there will always be creative Sailors dedicated to inspiring others with music and art to help them unwind and survive this great navy voyage.

Blue Ridge is the oldest operational ship in the Navy, and as 7th Fleet command ship, is responsible for patrolling and fostering relationships within the Indo-Asia Pacific Region.

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EYE FLEET ON THE

Navy Announces Launch of New Assignment Interface FROM NAVY PERSONNEL COMMAND PUBLIC AFFAIRS

MILLINGTON, Tennessee (NNS) -- An overhaul of how Sailors review and apply for billets — fundamentally changing the future of Navy detailing — was unveiled in NAVADMIN 276/19, released Dec. 3.

be able to search for all available vacant jobs as well as jobs with upcoming vacancies throughout the Navy. • More job search tools: MNA expands job search filters to include the fields “All Jobs,” “My Preferences,” “Bookmarks,” “Saved Searches,” MyNavy Assignment (MNA), a new and enhanced “By Qualification,” and “Rate.” Sailor interface to the Detailing Marketplace, will • Bookmark capability: Sailors will be able to replace the current Career Management System – bookmark up to 100 jobs for future viewing and Interactive Detailing (CMS-ID) on Dec. 5. comparison. • Improved application process: MNA increases Active duty and Full Time Support (FTS) enlisted the number of applications a Sailor can submit Sailors will see these new and enhanced career during an application cycle from five to seven. management capabilities and an improved It also includes an application tracker providing graphical user interface at launch. Reserve Sailors a status of their application. enlisted Sailors will see the changes in future • Professional Apprenticeship Career Tracks upgrades. (PACT) Sailor assignments: PACT Sailors will view, apply and compete for billets leading to rating “We based these changes on Sailor input designation. These Sailors will see a tailored billet from around the Navy,” said Rear Adm. Rick list based on individual eligibility. NAVADMIN Cheeseman, director of the Career Management 276/19 provides specific details on the new PACT Department at Navy Personnel Command. “As designation process. we continue to transform our Navy, our goal is to • MyResume: MNA expands Sailors’ capability increase transparency, flexibility, and choice for all Sailors and MyNavy Assignment is a huge step to highlight skillsets for detailers and prospective commands. The resume will include data used in in the right direction.” assignment decisions, and Sailors will have the ability to add text, highlighting their experience MNA is one of the key concepts in the and accomplishments at their current and past revolutionary Sailor 2025 initiative designed commands, as well as general comments to help to modernize the existing personnel system and market themselves for desired billets. provide more value to the Sailor through an improved user experience. While recent upgrades • Access to personal information: MNA will provide Sailors easier access to their personal to CMS-ID were considered favorable, MNA is information, improved duty preferences, easier to use and allows Sailors to focus more on assignment history, and MyResume. their career instead of just the process around • Enhanced messaging tools: MNA will feature billet assignment. community notes from detailers and messages about new detailing policies or programs on the MNA is designed to help Sailors better homepage. understand the Detailing Marketplace and • Improved help, tutorial and tips: At launch, be easier to use. It accomplishes this goal by incorporating the following changes: MNA is the first step to incorporate feedback • An increased access window: MNA allows from Sailors into the assignment process. Sailors more time to view detailing options and will be available for Sailors throughout the entire “MyNavy HR is committed to improving our detailing cycle, except for maintenance periods assignment process,” said Cheeseman. “We’ve when new jobs are released. already begun work on future updates to improve • Expanded job search capability: Sailors will this process for Sailors and commands.”

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