USS EMORY S. LAND OFFICIAL PUBLICATION || OCTOBER 2017 || VOLUME 8 || ISSUE 10 || TEAM TENDER
WELCOME TO THE MESS! Emory S. Land, Frank Cable, and other commands welcome their newest chief petty officers, one of the Navy’s greatest traditions. Pg. 11
WE TALKIN’ ABOUT PRACTICALS Sailors are tested in hands-on situations to prove that they are capable of fighting the ship. Pg. 19
PAVING THE WAY Learn about the actions and careers of some of the most notable Hispanic-American Sailors. Pg. 27
L ANDM ARK 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, Department of Defense, Department of the Navy, or the Commanding Officer of the USS Emory S. Land. All news, photos, and information for publication in Landmark magazine must be submitted to the Public Affairs Officer. Magazine produced by USS Emory S. Land Media Services. USS Emory S. Land (AS 39) is manned by an integrated crew of Sailors and civilian Mariners under the administrative control of Commander, Submarine Force, United States Pacific Fleet, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, and operational control of Commander, Task Force 74. As a forwarddeployed naval force, USS Emory S. Land is tasked to provide expeditionary intermediate level maintenance and repairs, hotel services, and logistics support to deployed Guided Missile and Fast Attack submarines deployed in the 5th, 6th, and 7th Fleet areas of responsibility.
COMMAND TRIAD COMMANDING OFFICER Capt. Douglas Bradley EXECUTIVE OFFICER Cmdr. Robert Lopez COMMAND MASTER CHIEF CMDCM William Greene
MEDIA SERVICES DIVISION PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICER Lt. Daniel Moore LEADING PETTY OFFICER MC1(SW) Timmy Wakefield MEDIA SERVICES MC1(SW/AW) Oliver Cole
DAMAGE CONTROL Machinist’s Mate Fireman Kiana Tomlin prepares an emergency water activated repair patch (EWARP) during an ESWS practical. 1 | LANDMARK | OCTOBER 2017
MC2 Alex Miller MC3(SW) Daniel Willoughby
ON THE COVER: Chief Hospital Corpsman Joseph Sablada receives a combination cover from Senior Chief Hospital Corpsman James Akin during a chief-pinning ceremony.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
FAMILY MATTERS Chief Electrician’s Mate Jason Hessell receives his anchors from his daughter and wife during the 2017 chiefpinning ceremony.
PAGE 11 LEADERSHIP Pg. 03 - The Commanding Officer
Pg. 07 - The Command Master Chief
FEATURES
Pg. 11 - Welcome to the Mess Pg. 17 - Like Father Like Son Pg. 19 - Practice Makes Perfect Pg. 23 - New Boss For SUBPAC Pg. 25 - Keepin’ it Real, Real Safe
HISTORY
Pg. 27 - A Look at The Past
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LEADERSHIP
THE COMMANDING OFFICER THE HIGHLIGHTS
In October, we continue our primary mission of repairing the submarines and surface ships here on the waterfront. That is going to continue. We also have a number of projects that we are planning for. We continue to prepare for underway readiness and working on our preparations for tender turnover. We are making sure that we are ready to execute that, which includes building on the lessons learned from the last turnover.
SEPTEMBER HIGHLIGHTS September was a great month for the ship. One thing that comes to mind is the ability for the tender to respond to the needs of the fleet. We had our normal workload in September, as well as a number of visitors. We were able to do some repairs that we haven’t done before on various platforms. We also provided fly-away assistance to be able to turn around fleet units and get them back out to sea in a timely fashion. Another important highlight from September was the chief pinning. Last month, I said that the chief pinning was one of the things I was looking forward to, and I was able to fly back in time for it. It was a great event to go to and be a part of. It’s something that no other service does for the E-7 to E-9 paygrades. It’s definitely a unique ceremony. It was a great day. 3 | LANDMARK | OCTOBER 2017
UNDERWAY READINESS We were able to look at different aspects of readiness during our operational stand down last month. The stand down provided a good opportunity for Sailors, from the deck plates up, to communicate up the chain of command, and it also gave us an opportunity to review and assess some of the higherrisk evolutions we do. Since then, we’ve continued to hone in and train in damage control readiness, especially simulating at sea. NAVY’S BIRTHDAY We have the Navy’s birthday coming up. It is a tradition. It’s something that establishes and builds a culture of cohesiveness within the Navy. It is to remind everyone that we are a part of one team, and one mission. The ship platforms, the air platforms, we are all a part of one Navy. I think that it is important that we come together and recognize our heritage and celebrate. It is also a time to reflect, to remember where we came from. You remember the many years that it took to get you where you are now, all of the growth and changes. It’s not always happy times. You remember the hard work that got you where you are now. There were many people who walked in our boots
PHONE CALLS Capt. Douglas Bradley poses for a photograph in his cabin.
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LEADERSHIP
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WE WERE MADE TO PROTECT THE GLOBAL COMMONS AND AMERICAN INTERESTS, AND WE WILL CONTINUE TO DO THAT AND BE THE BEST FORCE IN THE WORLD. years before us. They established the Navy and built up the infrastructure. They were pioneers of platforms and stepped into harm’s way in various conflicts. We were made to protect the global commons and American interests, and we will continue to do that and be the best force in the world. MOTORCYCLE SAFETY One of the command’s “b’s” is to be safe, and that applies on and off the ship. It’s recreational safety. It’s home safety. It’s vehicle safety, which includes motorcycles. Statistically, most of our tragic events within the services happen with motorcycles. It is a high-risk activity by nature, and that’s why it’s imperative that the safety requirements are adhered to. It’s a dangerous road out there. Motorcycles are small, there is no additional protection compared to a car. Here in Guam, we have a number of extra risks including rain, reduced visibility and slick roads. Motorcycling is an inherently dangerous activity. Just like any dangerous activity, the way to mitigate that is to meet the safety requirements. We want to be good stewards of that, and continue to meet Navy standards. We had a command “ride” back at the end of August. Our riders got together
and did a safety stand down, checked equipment, verified credentials, and did a safe ride together on the island. I hope our riders continue to be safe out there! LOOKING AHEAD So in October, we continue our primary mission of repairing the submarines and surface ships here on the waterfront. That is going to continue. We also have a number of projects that we are planning for. We continue to prepare for underway readiness and work on our preparations for tender turnover. We are making sure that we are ready to execute that, which includes building on the lessons learned from the last turnover. Another thing I am looking forward to is trick or treating, although I do not have any costumes in mind yet. I also wanted to recognize our three fantastic ombudsmen. It was great to recognize them at the regional luncheon, and I appreciate the great work they continue to do for the ship and the families.
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LEADERSHIP
CHIEFS, CLASSIC CARS & STALLONE Interview by MC2 Alex Miller
Team Tender just welcomed quite a few new chiefs between both ships. How Emory S. Land’s Command Master Chief (CMC) William Greene, a do responsibilities change when you are native of Jasper, Texas, has been in the Navy for 20 years thus far. promoted to chief? In that short amount of time, he climbed to the rank of master chief Any time you go from first class to petty officer, which is no small feat. You’ll often see him striking up a chief, your ethics shouldn’t change, but your role will expand drastically. The conversation with Sailors, that often ends up with him asking, “Is there higher you go, your rights go down. If an anything I can do for YOU.” His core characteristic is that of any good E3 gets a DUI, he or she will receive their CMC -- empathy. punishment and get busted down, but that’s the end of it. When you’re a chief, you are under a microscope. You must set the example for the Sailors you lead through your actions both on and off the ship. Getting in trouble at the level causes a loss of credibility, which is one of the most important aspects of the position. You need that credibility, whether it’s professional knowledge or personal character. How does the promotion to Chief Petty Officer reflect a Sailor’s work ethic and leadership ability? What does it truly mean to be “a chief?” It’s an honor to be a chief. Even though I’m a master chief, I’m still a chief and always will be. It’s not a derogatory title for me. Although there are some qualifications of what a chief should be, what we’re doing isn’t really written down. It’s an honor the Navy gives the chief the flexibility to do what’s needed, within bounds, to take care of Sailors and get the job done. It’s a position you don’t see in other branches. We go out to sea and we’re expected to be the voices of reason. We’re expected to be experts who can hold our own and be a solid bridge between junior enlisted and officers. 7 | LANDMARK | OCTOBER 2017
IT’S AN HONOR THE NAVY GIVES THE CHIEF THE FLEXIBILITY TO DO WHAT’S NEEDED, WITHIN BOUNDS, TO TAKE CARE OF SAILORS AND GET THE JOB DONE.
COMMUNICATION CMC Greene gives parting words to a Sailor leaving the command.
Can you describe your own pinning and how it felt to put on your anchors for the first time? I put on my anchors in a pinning ceremony in Washington in 2005. It was a great experience and I’m happy I got to have family there to witness it. I never expected to make it as quick as I did, but I was ready to make the transition. I wasn’t a first class for long, but knew I was capable of leading at the next level. Unfortunately, I got off to a rough start. On day two, the day after my pinning, I forgot my anchors. LANDMARK | OCTOBER 2017 | 8
LEADERSHIP
FAREWELL Greene bids PS2 Jordan Jones ‘farewell’ after a discussion about Jones’ next duty station.
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WHEN I WAS A KID I REALLY WANTED A BUICK GRAND NATIONAL WITH ITS 3.8L V6. IT WAS A GREAT SLEEPER CAR. YOU WOULDN’T LOOK AT IT AND EXPECT IT TO BE SO POWERFUL. How is the ship doing on its “96 for 96” goal and how is the frequency of ARIs improving overall? I can never say enough that 98% of the crew is doing a great job when it comes to making smart decisions with alcohol. The amount of Sailors blowing hot at duty section turnover has gone down. I think there’s a small percentage of Sailors out there who aren’t getting it and continue to roll the dice thinking they won’t get caught. We’re doing better. We’re getting feedback from the crew about certain situations going on so they can be addressed at the lowest possible level to avoid potential incidents. If you could own any classic car, what would it be? When I was a kid I really wanted a Buick Grand National with its 3.8L V6. It was a great sleeper car. You wouldn’t look at it and expect it to be so powerful. It didn’t have the sleek curves of a Corvette, but when push came to shove, it could get up and go. Buick didn’t manufacture very many of them and they are pretty hard to find these days, but I still wouldn’t mind getting my hands on one. Who is the best 80s action movie hero? Arnold? Stallone? Dolph? Van Damme? I’m a Stallone fan. First Blood Part II is one of my all-time favorite action movies. American Ninja starring Michael Dudekoff is a pretty underrated one I like. I’ve always been a fan of those B-movie action stars who didn’t always get the same shine guys like Stallone and Schwarzenegger did.
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FEATURES
MAKING THE MESS Story by MC2 Alex Miller Photos by MC1 Oliver Cole and MC2 Alex Miller
Since April 1, 1893, the chief petty officer has been the epitome of naval knowledge, experience and leadership. Chiefs are the bridge between officers and enlisted Sailors, and are often questioned by both. “Ask the chief,” is a common phrase. In a ceremony unique to the Navy, more than 20 Sailors were advanced to chief.
PASSING IT ON Retired Master Chief Dennis Polli, the ceremony’s guest speaker, addresses the crowd.
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FEATURES
Shortly after 0800, hundreds of Sailors poured into the Naval Base Guam Theater. Sounds of conversation filled the air, reaching a low roar. Beneath the layer of noise Sailors could be heard talking about their peers and leaders who were about to celebrate a major milestone. A man stepped up to a podium located on the edge of the stage. “The ceremony will begin in five minutes,” said the event’s master of ceremonies. “Please make your way to your seats.” The Sailors steadily cleared the aisles and sat down as the noise began to dissipate. Minutes passed and the ceremony began with a rendition of the national anthem followed by a chaplain’s invocation. The master of ceremonies took the stage again. “Selectees, post,” said the master of ceremonies. Two ranks of Sailors entered from the rear of the room and made their way down the aisles to the stage, dressed in khaki service uniforms singing “Anchors Aweigh” in unison. The singing Sailors entered the theater as first class petty officers, but would exit as the Navy’s newest chief petty officers. “It feels great to have the opportunity to train the next generation of leaders,” said submarine tender USS Emory S. Land Command Master Chief William Greene. “They worked hard to get where they are today and I’m proud to welcome them to the mess.” The pinning ceremony came at the tail end of a sixweek education and transition phase for selectees known as induction. The transition is a time-honored tradition where chiefs introduce selectees to the responsibilities of their new position. “We prepare them for what to expect from their new role,” said Greene. “You must be reliable and able to juggle whatever the position throws at you. The training never stops. No matter what level you reach, the training continues.” Beyond taking on an increased workload, chiefs have an obligation to make sacrifices to serve the Sailors they lead.
INTO THE FUTURE HTC Shane Bueter salutes the side boys after officially becoming a chief petty officer. 13 |LANDMARK | OCTOBER 2017
MOMENTS GMC John Zuniga, a Frank Cable Sailor, receives his anchors from family members during the ceremony. LANDMARK | OCTOBER 2017 | 14
FEATURES
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“When you’re a first class, you take care of your Sailors and yourself as well,” said Chief Hospital Corpsman Joseph Sablada, one of Land’s freshly-pinned chiefs. “When you become a chief, you have to shed that element of ‘self’. You are a reflection of the successes or failures of your Sailors and it’s your responsibility to do what’s necessary to put them in a position to succeed.” Becoming a chief is a major achievement for many Sailors, who often have to put in more than a decade of hard work to receive their anchors. “I was molded to be ready,” said Sablada. “It took me nine years as a first class to make it, but I can walk in with my head held high knowing I have something in my heart and mind to share with these junior Sailors. I have years of experience that helped shape me into the kind of leader my Sailors deserve, and I wouldn’t trade it for the world.” The pinning is a memorable occasion for anybody who gets to go through it, but sometimes Sailors get to experience it on days that are already significant to them. Sablada had a second reason to celebrate the day: it was his birthday. “There were two things running through my mind when I was on the stage,” said Sablada. “I was, of course, very excited to put my anchors on for the first time. I was also thinking ‘wow, I can’t believe I am 52 years old.’ I suppose you’re only as old as you feel, and that day felt like a new beginning.” Sablada offered a few words of parting advice for younger junior Sailors hoping to become chiefs one day. “You aren’t the sharpest tool in the shed,” said Sablada. “But you’re the most useful.”
ALL SMILES MCC Gabriel Hartford, a Naval Base Guam Sailor, receives her anchors from family members during the ceremony. LANDMARK | OCTOBER 2017 | 16
FEATURES
LIKE FATHER LIKE SON Story by MC1 Oliver Cole Photo provided by Mlachak family
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The Mlachak family has a proud heritage of serving in the Navy, and has done so continuously since WWII. Newly-pinned Chief Hull Technician Matthew Mlachak, assigned to USS Frank Cable (AS 40) and his father, retired Chief Gunner’s Mate Michael Mlachak are part of the legacy. Their story in Guam started in April of 1995 when Chief Petty Officer Michael A. Mlachak reported for duty at Naval Station Guam as the leading chief petty officer at the Naval Weapons Station. His family, wife Margaret, sons Matthew and Marc and daughter Michelle, accompanied him to the island for four years.
FAMILY TIME HTC Matthew Mlachak, retired GMC Michael Mlachak, and their family pose for a photograph after Mathew advanced to chief petty officer during a ceremony at Naval Base Guam’s theater.
The family had an active lifestyle and had no problem melding with what the island had to offer. Michael became active in the Guam Running Club and was an officer in the Guam Triathlon Federation. Margaret accepted employment with GovGuam working at the Department of Education. His family flourished on Guam, enjoying the generous hospitality of the local people and all of the opportunities that the island had to offer, especially the beaches and hiking. The children were active in Naval Morale Welfare and Recreation (MWR) sports, playing baseball and soccer. Matthew and Marc were also involved in the Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts, while Michelle participated in the Girl Scouts. In July of 1999 Chief Petty Michael Mlachak decided to retire, and it was at his retirement ceremony that his then 13 year old son, Matthew played the national anthem on his trumpet to open the proceedings. After retiring, the Mlachak family left Guam and settled in Orlando, Florida. In June of 2003, a Navy Recruiter paid a visit to the Mlachak household and three months later Matthew started his Navy career. “I joined the Navy for adventure,” said Matthew. “And if I’m being honest, the Navy paying for weld school wasn’t a bad deal either.” After the completion of Recruit Training Command and of HT “A” School, Matthew was stationed at Camp Pendleton, CA. He then went to the east coast and completed a tour on the USS Nassau (LHA-4), followed by 3 years at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard where he met his wife Amy. Upon completion of a successful tour in Norfolk, Matthew returned to Guam when he accepted orders to the
USS Frank Cable (AS40). “I grew up here, so coming back to Guam was exciting for me,” said Matthew. “I remember running through the jungles, scaling the cliffs and swimming at the beaches.” Matthew returned to Guam as a 28year- old 1st Class Petty Officer. Even with all the military responsibilities, Matthew still found the time to join the Guam Running Club, participating in numerous club sponsored runs. Matthew participates in island triathlons as his father did before him. Through his participation in running and triathlons, Matthew made many friends and had the opportunity to introduce himself to many of the same friends that his parents made while they were on island. “When I was growing up here, my dad told me to stay out of trouble because everyone would know me as Chief Mlachak’s son,” said Matthew. “It’s 20 years later and some people who worked with my dad still know me as Chief Michael Mlachak’s son.” Matthew grew from the 13-year-old who played trumpet at his father’s retirement ceremony to becoming a chief petty officer himself on September 15, 2017. Being proud parents, Mike and Margaret travelled to Guam for the chief pinning ceremony. Matthew was pinned by his mother and his wife, while his father placed the combination cover on his head. “It was a wonderful moment as a family to be with the new Chief Mlachak and share his moment,” said Margret. In that moment, the circle was completed. Michael finished his career on Guam as a chief petty officer with his son taking part in the ceremony; Matthew became a chief on Guam with father participating in his pinning ceremony. Matthew continues to honor the proud heritage of serving in the Navy; and no matter where his career takes him, he will take with him years of fond memories of his life on Guam.
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FEATURES
PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT Story and photos by MC1 Oliver Cole
HOSE TEAM ACTION MM3 Elaina Kiser uses a NFTI (Naval Firefighters Thermal Imager) to guide her hose team consisting of HT1 Christopher Merrow, center, and HT2 Michael Woodbury, left, during an ESWS (enlisted surface warfare specialist) practical. The practical was added to the ESWS program recently to ensure Sailors have the knowledge and expertise to fight fires. 19 |LANDMARK | OCTOBER 2017
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FEATURES
Imagine preparing to fight a fire: hearts racing while quickly donning firefighting gear, nerves mounting when entering a pitch black space and the pressure of leading a team directly into a life-threatening situation. This can be difficult to imagine for some Sailors, and even more difficult to learn through lectures or walkthroughs. Sometimes there’s just no substitute for hands-on experience. The Damage Control (DC) Practical provides a taste of that experience and more.
Not only is this applied evolution available, it’s mandatory for Sailors aboard USS Emory S. Land (AS 39) who are earning Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist qualifications. Land leadership and its Training Department created this evolution to evaluate the practical DC knowledge of Sailors. “It was initially the brain child of the command master chief,” said Damage Controlman 1st Class Matthew Reyes. “He gathered the training team and we brainstormed different ways to challenge Sailors.” Emory S. Land has a unique crew and mission compared to other ships in the fleet. Land and sister ship, USS Frank Cable (AS 40), provide maintenance, hotel services, and logistical support to submarines and surface ships in the U.S. 5th and 7th Fleet areas of operation. Land has a mixed crew of Navy personnel and civilians. The training department acknowledged that with its unique circumstances, Land Sailors are often not provided with adequate DC experience they would receive elsewhere. With that realization, they established a program to make a difference. “We realized that we need to encourage keeping our Sailors engaged in DC,” said Reyes. “They should be able to combat casualties while under a certain amount of stress in a controlled environment.” The DC Practical team stresses that the evolution is an evaluation, rather than a first-time dealings with damage control. Sailors should come prepared with basic DC knowledge and ready to display their familiarity in the subject. “We don’t expect everyone to be perfect, but it is an evaluation,” said Damage Controlman 1st Class Victoria Wells. “There have been occasions that required Sailors to retake the practical when they didn’t have the knowledge or show proficiency. Although we are testing their knowledge, every evolution should be a learning experience.“ The practical is broken into four parts. The first portion is a timed evolution where Sailors have less than five minutes to fully don all firefighting gear properly and evaluate each other.
Wells said Sailors retain onformation better when they evaluate each other instead of receiving evaluation from the instructors. The second portion is demonstrating the use of a Naval Firefighting Thermal Imager (NFTI) and successfully leading a team as an attack team leader in a dark space. Machinist’s Mate Fireman Kiana Tomlin explained her most challenging portion of the practical. “The most challenging thing was when we went to fight the fire as a team,” said Tomlin. “I’ve done training as different positions on the inport emergency team, but it was my first time as team leader. It was tough, but the hands-on experience was good for me.” The next part is pipe patching. Sailors will apply a Soft Patch, Emergency Water Activated Repair Patch (EWARP), and Jubilee patch to a pipe patching mock up. “We connect the pipe to the fireplug, and once the patches are complete we energize the pipe to determine how effective their patches are,” said Reyes. “Once complete, they connect and utilize a portable eductor to de-water a metal bin.” “Patching was the most fun for me,” said Tomlin. “My favorite patch was the EWARP. We got to test our patches and we did pretty well overall, although one of them wasn’t very strong and we got soaked.” In the last leg of the evolution, Sailors switch roles with the observers and provide an in-depth walkthrough of ship spaces. “Lastly, we walk the fixed systems with them,” said Reyes. “They become the instructors, and just as we walked them through the systems and explained the components, they do the same and teach us. Putting all of this together is a great way for Sailors to actually get hands-on experience and learn how important it is to be able to combat different DC situations.” The DC practical is tentatively administered the second and fourth Thursday of every month. Sailors must first successfully complete the ESWS oral board.
THEY SHOULD BE ABLE TO COMBAT CASUALTIES WHILE UNDER A CERTAIN AMOUNT OF STRESS IN A CONTROLLED ENVIRONMENT.
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PIPE PATCHING DC1 Matthew Reyes observes as MM3 Elaina Kiser prepares a soft patch during an ESWS practical.
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FEATURES
NEW BOSS FOR SUBPAC Story by MC2 Shaun Griffin, SUBPAC Public Affairs Photo by MC2 Michael Lee, SUBPAC Public Affairs
Commander Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet and Commander Task Force 134 held a change of command ceremony at the submarine piers on Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Sept. 11. Rear Adm. Daryl Caudle relieved Rear Adm. Frederick “Fritz” Roegge.
Roegge assumed command of the Pacific Submarine Force in September 2015 and oversaw 60 percent of the entire U.S. Navy Submarine Force. This included oversight of the nation’s ballistic missile submarine fleet operating in the Pacific on behalf of Air Force Gen. John E. Hyten, Commander of U.S. Strategic Command. “I was recently asked what I was most proud of during my tour as commander of the Pacific Submarine force,” said Roegge. “What I’m most proud of is all of you, the people of the submarine force.” During his command, Roegge deployed 40 submarines through 37 attack and guided missile submarine deployments and 43 strategic deterrent patrols in support of five combatant commands. Roegge continued to praise the submarine force and stressed the importance of the Sailors who crew submarines. 23 |LANDMARK | OCTOBER 2017
“At the end of the day, the thing that makes our submarine force the greatest the world has ever known isn’t the submarines and their impressive technology; it’s the Sailors who take them to sea,” said Roegge. “Without the crew, the only thing a submarine is capable of is to sit alongside a pier and rust.” Roegge coordinated the incorporation of enlisted women in submarines which resulted in two integrated crews with female enlisted Sailors. He laid the groundwork for further expansion of opportunities to include integrating two Virginia-class attack submarines with female officers. At the ceremony were guest speakers Gen. John E. Hyten, U.S. Air Force, commander, U.S. Strategic Command and Adm. Scott Swift commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet. “At heart, Fritz is a visionary,” said Hyten. “Fritz’s vision and leadership propelled the Pacific Submarine Force to the highest state of material, operational, and personnel readiness.
AT THE END OF THE DAY, THE THING THAT MAKES OUR SUBMARINE FORCE THE GREATEST THE WORLD HAS EVER KNOWN ISN’T THE SUBMARINES AND THEIR IMPRESSIVE TECHNOLOGY; IT’S THE SAILORS WHO TAKE THEM TO SEA Swift also commended Roegge for his successful tour leading the Pacific Submarine Force. “The success of submarine operations in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region is a testament to Fritz’s superb leadership, as well as his dedicated mentorship,” said Swift. During the ceremony, Roegge received a Legion of Merit for his exceptional meritorious service. Roegge was nominated for a third star and elevation to the rank of Vice Admiral. He will assume duties as the president of the National Defense University in Washington D.C. As Caudle assumed command, he thanked Roegge for a smooth turnover and for leaving
him with a highly disciplined staff. “Fritz’s work ethic, dedication, commitment, and decision-making skills have set the bar high for me to maintain and advance his vision and successes,” said Caudle. “Fortunately, Fritz professionally orchestrated a comprehensive and well-designed turn-over process that significantly helped me understand the details and nuances of such a demanding job.” The Pacific submarine force provides antisubmarine warfare, anti-surface ship warfare, precision land strike, intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance and early warning and special warfare capabilities to U.S. Pacific Command and strategic deterrence capabilities to U.S. Strategic Command.
INTERESTING LOCATION! Rear Adm. Daryl L. Caudle, incoming commander of Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet (COMSUBPAC), addresses guests during the COMSUBPAC change of command ceremony.
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FEATURES
KEEPIN’ IT REAL REAL SAFE Story by MC1 Oliver Cole Photo provided by ESL’s motorcycle safety team
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The submarine tender USS Emory S. Land (AS 39) plan of the day emphasized the importance of motorcycle safety when reporting that a man died after he crashed his motorcycle on Marine Corps Drive in Yigo, Guam. The driver did not appear to be wearing a helmet during the crash, the second reported fatal motorcycle crash in Guam in recent days.
LOOKING GOOD Emory S. Land’s motorcycle team poses for a photograph after a meeting and group ride that took them around the island. The meeting ensured that riders had proper safety equipment, knowledge, and credentials.
Emory S. Land has a motorcycle safety program that teaches Sailors basic riding skills and safety guidelines, in hopes to prepare riders and eliminate motorcycle mishaps. “The purpose of this program is to ensure all Sailors are riding safe,” said Machinist’s Mate 1st Class Sandro Lara, the command motorcycle safety assistant. “We make sure they are wearing their proper protective equipment and are well-informed about the hazards out here on Guam roads.” Although this program is not mandatory, there are requirements for all Sailors who ride. Active riders must have a current motorcycle license and complete the Basic Riders Course and Advance Riders Course. Sport bike riders must also complete the Sport Bike Riders Course. “I’ve been riding for nearly 9 years,” said Lara. “My goal is to keep everyone safe, but also make this program fun for our riders, especially since the island has so many beautiful sites.” Land riders in the Motorcycle Safety Program completed a half-island ride for Suicide Prevention Month in September. They cruised from Naval Base Guam to Jeff’s Pirate Cove in Talofofo, where they had lunch and talked about ways to improve the rides and the program. “I want to do another ride next quarter where Sailors can show off their motorcycles,” said Lara. “I want to show non-riders the fun that comes with riding a motorcycle and show that it’s not all about hazards, rules and regulations.” Although riding can be fun and exciting, it’s important to become familiar with basic motorcycles knowledge and to be comfortable while riding. “Never underestimate the power of a motorcycle,” said Lara. “You control the bike, the
bike does not control you. Understanding that can prevent accidents.” Lara gives advice to Sailors who are interested in motorcycles and informs them of available resources. “I highly encourage that Sailors get all the requirements done before getting a bike,” said Lara. “Sailors learn a lot from these courses, like how to approach a curve, how to brake correctly, how to lean properly, and other cool tricks that the instructors offer.” Sailors who don’t have a motorcycle can coordinate with course instructors to provide a loaner bike in the Basic Riders Course. Ensure all requirements are complete before riding and contact MM1 Lara for more information on this program.
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HISTORY
HISPANIC HERITAGE
A LOOK AT THE PAST Photos and bios from Naval History and Heritage Command
The Navy, along with the nation, observes Hispanic Heritage Month from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15 every year. The dates coincide with the independence days of multiple Hispanic countries including, Chile, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico and Nicaragua. Within the observance is the Navy’s birthday on Oct. 13. This may just be a coincidence, but Hispanic-Americans have served honorably in the Navy for hundreds of years.
LEGACY The Arleigh Burke-class destroyer USS Farragut (DDG 99) sails in the Atlantic Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo by MC2 Nathan Wilkes)
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HISTORY
ADMIRAL DAVID G. FARRAGUT DAMN THE TORPEDOES! Capt. David G. Farragut poses for a photograph done by famous Civil War era photographer Mathew Brady.
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It has been said of his naval career: “The history of Farragut’s life is of importance less as a study of naval tactics, strategy and history than a study of the character of one whom many believe to have been the ideal of what a naval commander should be. He proved that kindliness, honor, love of friends and family, and a tolerant disposition are not incompatible with inflexibility in discipline and greatness as a warrior. But the secret of this success in war was in straight thinking and determined action..... in his famous words ‘Damn the torpedoes; go ahead - full speed,’ he was expressing not mere bragadoccio, but the guiding rule of his whole life: “First be sure you are right; then go ahead.” Famous quote: “Damn the torpedoes, Full speed ahead!” On board Hartford, Farragut entered Mobile Bay, Alabama, 5 August 1864, in two columns, with monitors leading and a fleet of wooden ships following. When the lead monitor Tecumseh was demolished by a mine, the wooden ship Brooklyn stopped, and the line drifted in confusion toward Fort Morgan. As disaster seemed imminent, Farragut gave the orders embodied by these famous words. He swung his own ship clear and headed across the mines, which failed to explode. The fleet followed and anchored above the forts, which, now isolated, surrendered one by one. The torpedoes to which Farragut and his contemporaries referred would today be described as moored mines. [Hearn, Chester G. Admiral David Glasgow Farragut: The Civil War Years. (Annapolis, MD: Naval Institute Press, 1988): 263-265. According to the book by Admiral Farragut’s son, The Life of David Glasgow Farragut, First Admiral of the United States Navy, (New York: D. Appleton and Company, 1879), pages 416-417, Admiral Farragut said “Damn the torpedoes! Four bells! Captain Drayton, go ahead! Jouett, full speed!”] Five ships of the U.S. Navy have been named in honor of Admiral Farragut. The first was Farragut (Torpedo Boat No. 11), launched on 16 July 1898; the second was Farragut (Destroyer No. 300), launched on 21 November 1918; the third Farragut (DD 348), launched 15 March 1934, had World War II service; the fourth Farragut (DLG 6) was launched on 18 July 1958; the fifth Farragut (DDG 99) was launched on 9 July 2005 and commissioned on 10 June 2006.
ADMIRAL HORACIO RIVERO JR.
PUERTO RICO’S OWN Horacio Rivero Jr. was the first Puerto Rican and Hispanic four-star admiral and second Hispanic to become a full admiral in the United States Navy.
Horacio Rivero Jr. was the first Puerto Rican and Hispanic four-star admiral. Rivero was born in Ponce, Puerto Rico, on 16 May 1910, son of Margarita De Lucca Vda De Rivero and Horacio Rivero. He graduated from Central High School in San Juan, before entering the US Naval Academy, Annapolis, Maryland, on appointment from Puerto Rico on 20 June 1927. He was graduated with distinction, third in a Class of 441 members, and was commissioned Ensign on 4 June 1931. Promoted to the rank of Lieutenant on 4 June 1938, he subsequently advanced to the rank of Captain, to date from 1 July 1949, having served in that rank (temporary) from 7 February 1946 until 10 June 1947. He was promoted to Rear Admiral, to date 1 July 1956; Vice Admiral, to date from 1 October 1962 and Admiral, his date of rank 31 July 1964. In January 1942, shortly after the United States entered World War II, Admiral Rivero was ordered to duty in connection with fitting out the USS San Juan (CL-54), named for the Puerto Rican city. Upon her commissioning on 28 February 1942, he went aboard as her Assistant Gunnery Officer. As such, he participated in the landings at Guadalcanal-Tulagi, a lone raid on the Gilbert Islands, and the Battle of Santa Cruz Islands, from August to October 1942. He was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V,” for “meritorious service ... as Assistant Gunnery Officer of the USS San Juan in the Pacific War Area from 7 August 1942 to 24 April 1943...” He became Vice Chief of Naval Operations on 31 July 1964 and “for exceptionally meritorious service...” in that capacity was awarded a Gold Star in lieu of the Second Distinguished Service Medal. The citation continues in part: “...Admiral Rivero rendered astute and timely recommendations which were invaluable in the formulation and implementation of naval strategy... (and), with highly respected technical competence and professional acumen, he established and maintained an effective rapport with the organizations within the Department of Defense and with the industrial and scientific communities in the conduct of naval affairs...” In February 1968 he reported as Commander in Chief of the Allied Forces, Southern Europe. He was awarded a Gold Star in lieu of the Third Distinguished Service Medal and cited in part as follows: “...In the face of limited material resources, regional political upheavals, and the dramatically increased Soviet penetration of the Mediterranean, he persuasively rallied the common determination of Southern Region nations; developed plans to counter the Soviet threat; implemented the ‘Flexible Response’ strategy of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and intensively exercised the allied armies, navies and air forces in a variety of complex national and multinational maneuvers and exercises...” Admiral Rivero was transferred to the Retired List of the US Navy on 1 June 1972. Admiral Rivero passed away in 2000. LANDMARK | OCTOBER 2017 | 30
HISTORY
THE HONORABLE EDWARD HIDALGO THE SECRETARY A portrait painting of Secretary of the Navy, Edward Hidalgo, by Everett Raymond Kinstler in 1981.
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Edward Hidalgo was the first Hispanic-American Secretary of the Navy. From 1943 to 1945 he served as an air combat intelligence officer on the carrier USS Enterprise (CV 6), and he was a member of the Eberstadt Committee which reported to the Secretary of the Navy on Unification of the Military Services in 1945. He received the Bronze Star for his services aboard Enterprise and a Commendation Ribbon for his service with the Eberstadt Committee. In 1945 and 1946 he served as Special Assistant to the Secretary of the Navy, James Forrestal. From 1946 to 1948, Mr. Hidalgo was a partner at the law firm of Curtis, Mallet-Prevost, Colt & Mosle, in charge of their México City office. In 1948, he was a founding member and senior partner until 1965 in the México City law firm of Barrera, Siqueiros & Torres Landa. From 1965 to 1966, Mr. Hidalgo was Special Assistant to the Secretary of the Navy, Paul H. Nitze, and from 1966 to 1972, he was a partner in the law firm of Cahill, Gordon & Reindel, in charge of their European office. In 1972 he served as Special Assistant for Economic Affairs to the Director of the US Information Agency, and in 1973 he became General Counsel and Congressional Liaison of the Agency. On 13 September 1979, President Jimmy Carter announced he would nominate Edward Hidalgo to be Secretary of the Navy. Mr. Hidalgo was confirmed by the Senate on 19 October and took the oath of office on 24 October 1979. He previously served as Assistant Secretary of the Navy (Manpower, Reserve Affairs and Logistics) since 25 April 1977. Mr. Hidalgo was a member of the US Delegation to the Inter-American Conference in Bogotá, República de Colombia, in 1948. He received the Royal Order of the Vasa for legal services to the Swedish Government. He is the author of “Legal Aspects of Foreign Investments” (published in México) (1958). Mr. Hidalgo died on 21 January 1995, in Fairfax, Virginia.
MASTER CHIEF JOE R. CAMPA JR. Master Chief Joe R. Campa Jr. was the first Hispanic-American Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy. He was born and raised in California and enlisted in the Navy on 2 June 1980. He completed Recruit Training and Hospital Corps “A” School in San Diego, California. His duty assignments include USS Ogden (LPD-5) San Diego, California; Naval Medical Center, San Diego, California; Seventh Marine Regiment, First Marine Division, Camp Pendleton; Naval Hospital, Long Beach, California; Third Force Service Support Group, Fleet Marine Force, Okinawa, Japan; Naval Hospital Bremerton Washington; First Force Service Support Group during the Persian Gulf War; USS Comstock (LSD-45) San Diego, California; Naval Training Center, Great Lakes, Illinois. Master Chief Campa was selected to the Command Master Chief program in May 1999 and reported to USS Curtis Wilbur (DDG-54) in Yokosuka, Japan as Command Master Chief in November 1999 and served until June 2002. During his tour, the ship deployed to the North Arabian Sea in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. From June 2003 – February 2005 he served as the Command Master Chief for USS Frank Cable (AS-40) stationed in Guam. Prior to being selected to be MCPON he was the Command Master Chief at Joint Task Force Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. Command Master Chief Campa is a distinguished honor graduate of the U.S. Navy Senior Enlisted Academy (class 88). He also graduated from the U.S. Army Sergeants Major Academy in May 2003 and completed the Command Sergeants Major course. He holds a Bachelor of Science Degree from Excelsior College. In March 2006 he graduated from the Naval War College with a Master of Arts degree in National Security and Strategic Studies.
TENDER’S OWN Master Chief Campa poses for a portrait. Campa served on the Frank Cable and in Cuba before becoming the 11th MCPON. LANDMARK | OCTOBER 2017 | 32
HISTORY
REAR ADM. EDMUND E. GARCIA UNDETERRED Commander Garcia led a successful escort division in charge of protecting ships crossing the Atlantic.
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Edmund Ernest Garcia was born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, on 27 March 1905, son of Mrs. Antonia Rumirez of San Diego, California, and the late Enrique Garcia. He attended high schools in Chillicothe, Ohio and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and after preparing for the U.S. Naval Academy at Severn School, Severna Park, Maryland, entered the naval academy as a Midshipman on 14 June 1922. After graduation from the Naval Academy, he was assigned to the USS Wyoming and served as a junior officer in the Gunnery Department of that battleship from August 1927 to June 1928. Transferring to the USS Galveston, he had duty during the next year in that cruiser’s Engineering Department. In September and October 1929, he had flight instruction at the Naval Air Station, Pensacola, Florida, and from November of that year until May 1933, he had successive service (gunnery and torpedo) on the destroyers Lawrence, Bernadou, Crowninshield and Tracy, with time out to attend the Torpedo School in San Diego, California, during the period February to May 1932. Upon his return to the United States in October 1939, he was assigned to Naval Ammunition Depot, Fort Mifflin, Pennsylvania as Executive Officer, and served in that capacity until August 1941. He next assisted in fitting out the USS Hornet and was serving as Damage Control Officer of that aircraft carrier when the United States entered World War II in December 1941. Detached in February 1942, he assumed command of the USS Cormorant, which in November of that year was assigned special duty with the Bureau of Ordnance Experimental Mine Detachment, and operated out of the Navy Yard, Washington, D.C. and later from ports of Maryland and Virginia. During the period February 1944, throughout the remaining months of the war, and until November 1945, he commanded Escort Division 58, his pennant in the USS Price. He was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V,” for “Meritorious achievement during operations against enemy forces while serving as Commander of a unit of ships of an escort group protecting trans-Atlantic Convoys during World War II...” The citation states that “Undeterred by enemy opposition and adverse weather conditions, Commander Garcia expeditiously directed the ships under his command in fulfilling difficult assignments, thereby contributing materially to the success of his group in this area of operations...” While serving in the Navy, he was promoted to Rear Admiral. RADM Garcia died in 1971.
CMDR. EUGENE A. VALENCIA Eugene Anthony Valencia was born in San Francisco, California, on 13 April 1921, son of Eugene A. And Myrtle Eleanor (Loveing) Valencia. He attended Alameda, California, High School in 1935-1939, and San Francisco Junior College (SFJC) for two years, and at the latter participated in football and boxing; was President of Associated Students of SFJC and President of Associated Men Students of SFJC; and was a member of Phi Lambda Epsilon. On 1 August 1941, he was appointed Aviation Cadet, US Naval Reserve. He was commissioned Ensign in the Naval Reserve on 9 February 1942, transferred to the US Navy on 11 June 1947, and subsequently advanced in rank to that of Commander, USN to date from 1 July 1954. Following flight training at the Naval Air Stations, Pensacola, Opa Locka and Jacksonville, Florida, during the period 8 August 1941 to 12 April 1942, he was designated Naval Aviator, and as an Ensign in the Naval Reserve reported to the Naval Reserve Aviation Base, Oakland, California, for duty as a Flight Instructor. On 26 December of that year, he joined Carrier Qualification Training Unit, San Diego, California, for refresher training, and on 3 February 1945 reported to Fighting Squadron NINE, based successively on the USS Essex, USS Lexington and USS Yorktown. For outstanding World War II service he was awarded the Navy Cross, the Distinguished Flying Cross, Gold Stars in lieu of the Second, Third, Fourth, Fifth, and Sixth Distinguished Flying Cross, and the Air Medal with five Gold Stars in lieu of additional awards. Navy Cross: “For extraordinary heroism as Pilot of a Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron NINE, attached to the USS Yorktown, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Okinawa, April 17, 1945. Leading his combat air patrol in an aggressive attack against an overwhelming force of enemy fighters intent on attacking our Fleet units, Lieutenant Commander (then Lieutenant) Valencia engaged the enemy and, although outnumbered ten to one, personally shot down six hostile planes, probably destroyed another and damaged one. By his expert airmanship, gallant fighting spirit and devotion to duty, he contributed materially to the ultimate destruction and dispersal of the enemy formation...�
ACE Lt. Valencia in a photograph during WWII. Valencia was one of the most successful American aviators during the war.
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