The official publication of the USS Emory S. Land
THE
LANDMARK
Inside this issue PG. 7 Mare Island History PG. 9 ESL Visits State Capital PG. 13 Let’s Talk Hair PG. 15 Navy & Air Force Summer Bash
AUG 2018
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THE COMMAND TRIAD COMMANDING OFFICER | Capt. Douglas A. Bradley EXECUTIVE OFFICER | Cmdr. Robert J. Lopez COMMAND MASTER CHIEF | CMDCM William T. Greene THE LANDMARK MAGAZINE STAFF PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICER | Lt. Daniel Moore LEADING PETTY OFFICER | MC1 Oliver Cole QUALITY ASSURANCE | MC1 Steven Khor LEAD EDITOR | MC2 Alex Miller SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER | MC2 Daniel Willoughby STAFF JOURNALIST | MC3 Destinyy Reed STAFF JOURNALIST | MCSN Benjamin Zuercher The Landmark Magazine is an authorized publication for Sailors aboard the USS Emory S. Land (AS 39). Contents herein are not the views of, or endorsed by the United States government, Dept. of Defense, Dept. of the Navy, or the Commanding Officer of the ESL. All news, photos, and information for publication in The Landmark Magazine must be submitted to the Public Affairs Officer of the USS Emory S. Land. The Landmark Magazine is produced by ESL Media Services department. ESL is manned by an integrated crew of Sailors and civilian mariners under the administrative control of Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, and operational control of the Commander, Task Force 74. As a forward-deployed naval force, ESL is tasked to provide epeditionary, intermediate-level maintenance and repairs, hotel services, and logistics support to deployed GuidedMissile and Fast-Attack submarines deployed in the 5th, 6th and 7th Fleet areas of operation. REPRODUCTION OF ANY PART OF THIS PUBLICATION MUST BE AUTHORIZED BY THE PUBLISHER AND CREDITED TO THE LANDMARK MAGAZINE AND THE CONTRIBUTORS INVOLVED.
Berny Covarrubias serves food during the Navy and Air Force Summer Bash Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Oliver Cole
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Damage Contralman 1st Class Matthew Reyes and Aubree Downs, Travis Air Force Base USO operation center supervisor, pose for a picture during the raffle prize giveaway at the Navy and Air Force Summer Bash. Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Oliver Cole
SUMMER BASH ON PAGE 15
LEADERSHIP
Pg. 03 - The Commanding Officer Pg. 05 - The Executive Officer
FEATURES
Pg. 07 - Mare Island History Pg. 09 - ESL Visits State Capital Pg. 13 - Let’s Talk Hair Pg. 15 - Navy & Air Force Summer Bash
WHAT IS MTA? The submarine tender USS Emory S. Land (AS 39) undergoes maintenance in order to repair and preserve the life of the ship.
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Capt. Douglas Bradley Commanding Officer, USS Emory S. Land
MTA Update Things are going well. The shipyard and project team have done a good job keeping to the schedule. Galley startup and crew move aboard are just around the corner this month, and we are tracking for an on-time completion. Ambassadors It was a distinct honor to be hosted by Assemblyman Grayson in Sacramento, CA at the first session of the state legislature on August 6th. Myself, along with six crewmembers (LT Moore, LT Jean, RP1 Washington, MM1 McGowan, NC1 Bruzon, MC2 Miller) were escorted into the the legislative offices and then took seats in the upper gallery of the state legislature. At the start of the session, Assemblyman Grayson made a motion before the house honoring USS EMORY S. LAND and sailors for the work being done in Vallejo, highlighting the significance of the Navy’s return to Mare Island for the first time since 1996. Afterwards, we were invited to Assemblyman Grayson’s office for a brief visit with him. It is fascinating to watch our democracy in progress anywhere, I highly encourage everyone to visit their state capitals or to visit DC and observe a session of the Senate or House in session. This is what we work so hard at everyday - protecting and defending our Constitution and “government of the people, by the people, and for the people”. Navy/Air Force Partnership I think our stay at Travis was an exceptional display of joint logistics on short notice. Travis AFB Air Mobility Squadron were true heros for the Navy this summer. Their ability to work with the staff at COMSUBPAC and our crew leadership to put together an effective, safe, efficient, dining and lodging plan enabled us to stay focused on the mission to get the right work done in the shipyard safely, on-schedule. I attribute a great amount of our success to our home away from home at Travis. Having the facilities of the AFB readily at hand greatly improved quality of life for everyone. We were also able to make some strategic partnerships with the medical facilities and our Senior Medical Officer as well as the religious ministries and our Chaplain, and set up a
message traffic desk at the AFB SIPR cafe providing top notch care and service for the crew while supporting the mission. Travis was a fantastic supporting partner! Moving Aboard After we move back aboard, the first change will be ending the shift work rotation and returning to daily duty sections. Functionally, the duty section’s responsibilities stay the same - safety and security of the ship. Once everyone is aboard and out of shift work, it is time to give back to our ship. Our lines of effort will focus on readiness for sea, system restoration, and cleaning and preservation. Readiness for sea will require focused training and drills on skills necessary to safely go to sea. System restoration is focused on operating all of the equipment that has been worked, in lay-up, or has not been exercised since our arrival that we need to go to sea. Lastly, we will concentrate effort into cleaning our ship from the shipyard work, stowing gear for sea, and preserving our ship as the shipyard vacates spaces. Closing Remarks I would like to congratulate our new Chief Petty Officer Selects - Alberto Bruzon, Joshua Burke, Demetrice Chatman, Gabby Dacara, Troy Hall, John Ham, Christopher Merrow, Scott Richardson, Luis Salashernandez, Enrique Servatico, (and recent transfer Victoria Wells). ESL did very well this year reflecting the hard work and leadership that they have put in over the last several years. Additionally, I would like to congratulate RP1 Washington for selection for commission to US Navy Chaplain Corps. We will soon say farewell to several of our selectees as well as RP1, thank you for your terrific work aboard ESL, and stand tall as the future deckplate leaders of our Navy! In closing, as we rapidly approach the end of MTA, be ready for the coming changes to return our ship for sea. Continue to excel maintaining our outstanding safety record, keep our ship safe, and represent well as good ambassadors in the community both on and off-duty - our crew is knocking it out of the park, time to finish strong!
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Cmdr. Robert Lopez Executive Officer, USS Emory S. Land
Interview conducted by MC1 Khor
MC1: How can junior Sailors smoothly adapt to the change of command and leadership transitions as a whole? XO: First and foremost, we must all embrace change. Change is good and it helps the Navy continue to get better each day. The fear of the unknown is what makes people uncomfortable but with change comes opportunity. Sometimes, we live with certain things because we do not know how to fix them but new leadership can bring a fresh perspective which sparks different solutions. MC1: How has MTA enhanced our capabilities and readiness as a ship? XO: ESL is an older ship but MTA replaced lots of piping and steel plates which helps the ship stay ready for any tasking. With new upgrades in communication and new MK-38 weapons system, the ship is more prepared now to execute tasking than ever before. I am excited about the changes and can’t wait to get her back to sea and try the new systems out. MC1: What is on ESL’s agenda after the change of command and its return to Guam? XO: ESL is and always will be ready to execute any tasking. I am impressed with the crew’s ability to adapt to changes and overcome any obstacles to mission accomplishment. Leadership is just starting to work the downrange schedule and once it firms up, we will advertise it to the crew.
MC1: How should Sailors start preparing to return to sea? XO: Sea trials are coming fast and each of us must make sure we are ready. So how do we get ready? We prepare ourselves, our family and our ship. We must prepare mentally and make sure that we are in the right frame of mind. We inform our chain of command of any potential issues and we don’t hold surprises until after the ship leaves. For our family, we ensure that the right POAs are in place and that they are ready for the underway and possibility of a loss of communications. We make sure that each family has the ombudsman phone numbers and each family is aware of the great benefits of the FRG. For the ship, we need to clean, stow for sea and perform thorough pre-underway checks. Lastly, we communicate up, down, and across the chain of command to ensure information is shared at all levels in the chain of command. MC1: Do you have any advice for the Chief selects? XO: ? I have lots of advice but the best thing I can tell you is to listen to those that have gone before you; understand what they say and take it onboard. MC1: Is there anything you’d like to add, sir? XO: It is potentially my last underway onboard ESL and I am proud to sail with all the you.
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FIVE FACTS ABOUT THE HISTORY OF MARE ISLAND
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WEST COAST PRESENCE Mare Island Naval Shipyard was the first U.S. Navy base established on the Pacific Ocean.
IT’S BEEN A LONG TIME! Emory S. Land is the first Navy ship to undergo maintenance at the yard in 22 years.
LANDMARK The shipyard and surrounding area was declared a National Historic Landmark District in 1975.
SECOND WORLD WAR The shipyard was a major hub of west coast construction of submarines in WW2. In total, 17 submarines and 4 submarine tenders were built.
FIRSTS The collier USS Jupiter was constructed in Mare Island, later becoming the U.S. Navy’s first aircraft carrier, USS Langley.
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AMBASSADORS EMORY S. LAND VISITS STATE CAPITAL Story by MC2 Richard A. Miller Photos by MC2 Richard A. Miller and California State Assembly Staff
Capt. Douglas A. Bradley, Land’s commanding officer, presents a command ball cap and coin to Assemblymember Tim Grayson.
“I CAN’T IMAGINE HOW CHALLENGING IT MUST BE FOR THESE SAILORS TO BE AWAY FROM THEIR LOVED ONES FOR SUCH A LONG TIME. IT IS ADMIRABLE TO BE ABLE TO MAKE THOSE SACRIFICES FOR A GREATER GOOD.”
Sailors assigned to the submarine tender USS Emory S. Land (AS 39) visited the state capitol in Sacramento, California as honored guests of Assemblymember Tim Grayson, August 6. Grayson, who represents Solano County, recognized Land Sailors while the California State Assembly was in session. “It is an honor to welcome a dedicated group of Sailors who have called Solano County home for the past few months,” said Grayson. “We appreciate all the hard work and the sacrifice these Sailors make for our country every day.” Grayson, a former mayor of Conford, California, gave Sailors a tour of the assembly floor and insight into the daily activities of an assemblyman. “Mr. Grayson and his team were very welcoming, hospitable hosts,” said Capt. Douglas A. Bradley, Land’s commanding officer. “I am grateful we had the opportunity to represent our ship and our Navy at the state assembly.” Land’s Sailors have lived in Solano County since arriving for scheduled maintenance at Mare Island DryDock LLC in Vallejo, California, May 31. “The local area has a lot of interesting things to do and a lot of great food to eat,” said Machinist’s Mate 1st Class Joe
McGowan. “We received a warm welcome from the second we arrived at the beginning of the summer and it’s nice to see it continuing.” Land’s visit to Sacramento falls in line with one of Capt. Bradley’s main tenants for the ship’s crew: be an ambassador. “Our Sailors have done a great job keeping our reputation positive,” said Bradley. “I’m proud of how they have represented us out in town, and I am proud of how they represented us at the state capital.” Grayson acknowledged the challenges that come with military service and expressed his gratitude to Land Sailors. “Being away isn’t easy,” said Grayson. “Sometimes my work will keep me away from my family for a few days and even that short absence can weigh very heavily. I can’t imagine how challenging it must be for these Sailors to be away from their loved ones for such a long time. It is admirable to be able to make those sacrifices for a greater good. Thank you to the Sailors from USS Emory S. Land for answering our nation’s call and for being exemplary guests.” Land is slated to remain at Mare Island until the end of the scheduled maintenance availability. Until then, Land’s Sailors will continue to be ambassadors to the local community and state of California as a whole.
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Capt. Douglas A. Bradley, Land’s commanding officer, and ESL Sailors pose for a photo on the floor of the California State Assembly with Assemblymember Tim Grayson.
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let’s talk
HAIR By MC3 Destinyy Reed
The Navy has a long history of regulations and policies regarding how Sailors wear their hair. These policies are set in place for many reasons ranging from safety to uniformity and professionalism. They are outlined by the Navy Personnel Command (NPC) and enforced throughout the fleet. The Navy recently announced an expansion of hair styles for women in NAVADMIN 163/18. “This new policy allows diversity throughout the fleet by acknowledging a wider range of hairstyles for female Sailors,” said Machinery Repairman Fireman Carla Coronel. Women are now authorized to wear their hair in a single braid, French braid or single ponytail in service, working or physical training uniforms. The ponytail can’t extend greater than three inches below the lower edge of the collar of the shirt, jacket or coat. The accessory holding the ponytail must be discreet and consistent with the hair color. The hair cannot be worn below the bottom of the uniform collar wherever there are safety hazards. One major update from the policy is the authorization for women to wear locks. The NAVADMIN provides
specific and detailed guidance on how locks can be worn. Additionally, women may now wear a hair bun that does not extend beyond the width of the back of the head. “It’s a lot better knowing that I won’t have to wake up and put so much effort into doing my hair,” said Coronel. “For the most part, I can just get up and go.” NAVADMIN provides detailed guidelines for both male and female hairstyles, although this expansion only addresses the fleets female Sailors. “I’m happy to see the change,” said Machinery Repairman 3rd Class Jacob Ferguson. “Even though it doesn’t affect me, it benefits my shipmates and their overall happiness.” USS Emory S. Land is home to approximately 60 of the fleet’s female Sailors. This new policy will help further the Navy’s mission of diversifying Sailors throughout the fleet. Regardless of gender, U.S. Navy Sailors are all individual parts of one fleet. Grooming policies allow Sailors throughout the fleet to maintain an appearance of professionalism that keeps them mission-ready.
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SUMMER BASH NAVY AND AIR FORCE UNITE FOR AN AFTERNOON OF FUN Story and photos by MC1 Oliver Cole
Master-At-Arms 3rd Class Malcolm Kelley falls into a dunk tank during the Navy and Air Force Summer Bash at Travis Air Force Base. Sailors and Airmen volunteered and participated in a variety of recreational activities during the Summer Bash.
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“WE WANTED TO GIVE SAILORS A LITTLE TASTE OF WHAT WE HAD TO OFFER.” Sailors assigned to the submarine tender USS Emory S. Land (AS 39) volunteered and participated in the Navy and Air Force Summer Bash, sponsored by the USO at Travis Air Force Base (TAFB), Calif., July 28. Sailors and Airmen gathered to fellowship as they enjoyed free Buckhorn BBQ, outdoor activities, musical performances by the Band of the Golden West, and chances to win prizes. The USO regularly hosts programs for servicemembers and families, but this event was inspired due to the presence of Land Sailors and Airmen in such close proximity, said Aubree Downs, the TAFB USO Center Operations Supervisor. “We wanted to welcome Sailors from the Emory S. Land to Travis,” said Aubree Downs. “We wanted to give Sailors a little taste of what we had to offer and I’m glad everyone could come out and work together. The community came together and it turned out really well.” One of the constant missions of the Land crew is to be ambassadors for the command and the Navy wherever they travel. That mission is the same for the crew as they were lodging at TAFB while the ship was inhabitable during the maintenance availability. The crew is always encouraged to engage in positive activities that will benefit its host communities. The Summer Bash gave the crew the opportunity to do that and to associate with a different branch of the military. “I think it’s important for both branches to integrate,” said Navy Career Counselor First Class Petty Officer Albert Bruzon. “We get to see what the other branch does and get to know the people that make
things happen as a collective military force.” Members from the two branches and their families interacted over several activities including a dunk tank, a Nerf-gun course, sumo wrestling, Frisbee and more. Bruzon said, his favorite parts of the event were seeing everyone interacting and of course, the band. The Band of the Golden West performed at the Land’s arrival ceremony. Airman 1st Class Kayla Highsmith, Band of the Golden West vocalist, shared her thoughts on working with Land Sailors. “It’s been a cool opportunity being new to the Air Force to get to know some of the Sailors that have been here over the summer and learn what they do,” said Highsmith. “It’s cool to see how different mission requirements build into the armed forces. Being in the band gave me the opportunity to work with Sailors and for them to see what we do and what the band is about.” Sailors and Airmen alike said they enjoyed the Summer Bash and encouraged others to come out and participate in future events. “Thank you to the USO for putting this together,” said Bruzon. “It was really great to see Emory S. Land Sailors and Air Force Airmen coming out on a beautiful day and having a good time.” Land and its Sailors will soon leave the maintenance availability period in California and return to its normal operations providing maintenance, logistics support and hotel services to submarines and surface ships, but will continue to strengthen the partnerships with other military branches and hosting communities. Personnel Specialist 2nd Class Carlos Calvo shoots a Nerf gun during the Navy and Air Force Summer Bash at Travis Air Force Base. The event, sponsored by the USO, gave Sailors and Airmen an opportunity to interact and enjoy a variety of recreational activities.
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safe respectful honest ready