WASHINGTON SURVEYOR THE
JunE 6, 2017
By MC2 Bryan Mai
CHANGEOF
COMMAND O’ CAPTAIN, MY CAPTAIN! By MC3 Jacob Goff
OVERHAULING
YOURMIND
By MC3 Joshua David DuFrane
SERVINGUP BREAKFAST MUSTANG ASSOCIATION VOLUNTEERS
On the cover: (May22, 2017) Lt. Kris Greene prepares pancakes while making breakfast at the Ronald McDonald House Foundation. (Photo by MC3 Joshua David DuFrane)
PHOTO of the DAY
(June 4, 2017) BMCS Yucarlton Felton hugs his son after being pinned during a senior chief pinning ceremony. (Photo by MC3 Anna Van Nuys)
The Washington Surveyor Commanding Officer
Executive Officer
Command Master Chief
CAPT Glenn Jamison
CDR Colin Day
CMDCM James Tocorzic
Public Affairs Officer
Deputy PAO
Media DLCPO
Media LPO
LCDR Gregory L. Flores
LTJG Andrew Bertucci
MCC Mary Popejoy
MC1 Alan Gragg
Staff
Editors MC2 Kris R. Lindstrom MC2 Jennifer O’Rourke MCSA Julie Vujevich
MC3 Kashif Basharat MC2 Alora Blosch MC2 Jessica Gomez MC2 Bryan Mai MC2 Jules Stobaugh
MC3 Devin Bowser MC3 Carter Denton MC3 Joshua DuFrane MC3 Jacob Goff MC3 Shayla Hamilton
MC3 Brian Sipe MC3 Anna Van Nuys MCSN Jamin Gordon MCSN Alan Lewis MCSN Oscar Moreno
MCSN Kristen Yarber
The Washington Surveyor is an authorized publication for Sailors serving aboard USS George Washington (CVN 73). Contents herein are not the visions of, or endorsed by the U.S. government, the Department of Defense, the Department of the Navy or the Commanding Officer of USS George Washington. All news releases, photos or information for publication in The Washington Surveyor must be submitted to the Public Affairs Officer (7726).
*For comments and concerns regarding The Washington Surveyor, email the editor at julie.vujevic@cvn73.navy.mil*
OVERHAULING
YOUR MIND By MC3 Jacob Goff
C
hange has become routine for Sailors aboard the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73). With physical and geographical changes, the mind must also be able to adapt to new styles of living. For some, it’s easy being able to see family every day and not having to worry about going out to sea. For others, feeling like their mission is less important and working outside of what they were trained for can put a damper on their spirits. “For me, since I’m close to home, I feel like I have a more stable lifestyle and I’m happier overall,” said Masterat-Arms Seaman Morgan Beebe. “I can also see others who are more depressed because there’s less going on and they’re far from home and they don’t like the area.” Feeling disconnected can impact the mental, physical and emotional well-being of a Sailor, which can then have a negative impact on their overall mental health. “Sleep problems are still very common, along with depression and anxiety, so that hasn’t changed very much,” said Cmdr. Kenneth Sausen, the ship’s psychologist. “A lot of people are walking all over the ship who seem to not belong there, there’s a lot of dust in the air and things are just out of place. Sometimes new Sailors leaving A-School have a hard time accepting they won’t get the chance to work in their rate, so that can be disheartening.” The first step in combating these
problems is recognizing what challenges you might face. “It’s noisier – noisier than you can ever imagine. There are lots of needle guns and ventilation; cables and wires run everywhere,” said Sausen. “What we should be on the lookout for is issues related to drug use and maybe even living on your own for the first time.” Next is finding something positive to do with your free time. “I try to go home a lot, but I know not everyone can do that,” said Beebe. “Just having time off to go back to my room, relax and maybe play some video games is a great way to unwind from a busy day.” There are other, more proactive steps you can take that will keep your mental health strong. “Use your free time to develop yourself through college or exercise, or just take some ‘me time’”, said Sausen. “Getting enough sleep is another big thing. Having a standard
bedtime and a standard wake time is really important, as is not using your phone or computer or watching TV right before you go to sleep.” The choices are all around, with Morale Welfare and Recreation (MWR) events, free on-base gyms and special events like tours sponsored by Naval Station Norfolk on a regular basis. This period in refueling and complex overhaul (RCOH) may be a bigger challenge than many are used to, but knowing what’s coming and what to do to stay mentally strong can turn time in the yards into a time of growth. If you feel like your mental health could be better, help is all around. Set up an appointment with the ship’s psychologist, ship’s chaplain, or visit the Fleet and Family Support Center for more information. To enjoy local events, visit George Washington’s MWR office or any of the other MWR locations around Hampton Roads.
Norfolk Ronald McDonald House Foundation kitchen. (Photo from RMHC.org)
MUSTANGSPONYUP
FORBREAKFAST
By MC3 Joshua David DuFrane
I
t was early in the morning as members of the aircraft carrier USS George Washington’s (CV N 73) Mustang Association prepared breakfast in the kitchen of the Norfolk Ronald McDonald House Foundation. The sound of bacon and sausage sizzling on a frying pan filled the air as an officer ferociously whisked away at a bowl of several dozen eggs. The Mustangs have frequently supported the Norfolk Ronald McDonald House in various
ways and this time they cooked breakfast for the families residing there. The Ronald McDonald House supports families in need by providing a home to rest and refresh while their children receive treatment by local children’s hospitals. “The pur pose of the Mustangs getting together is to build camaraderie,” said Chief Warrant Officer 4 Carl Smith. “Going out to different COMRELs helps us learn how to work together and still have fun at the
same time. Being able to cook breakfast for some well-deserving families who are in a tough time really helps to build morale not only for those families, but for the Mustangs as well.” As the wee hours of the morning pressed on, more and more Mustangs arrived; assisting in different areas of the kitchen that was slowly becoming busier and busier by the minute. “Participating in the COMREL means a lot to me.” said (CONT’D ON NEXT PAGE)
(May 22, 2017) Members of the GW Mustang Association pose for a photo at the Norfolk Ronald McDonald House Foundation. (Photo by MC3 Joshua David DuFrane)
(May 22, 2017) CWO3 Kevin Selhorst prepares eggs while making breakfast at the Ronald McDonald House Foundation. (Photo by MC3 Joshua David DuFrane)
Lt. Kris Greene, a member of the Mustang Association. “I have two small daughters and the thought of one of them getting an illness or a disease and admitted to the children’s hospital helps me understand how the parents staying here feel at the Ronald McDonald House.” As the families staying at the House awoke and went to the kitchen, they were greeted by several smiling Sailors offering plates of the freshly made breakfast. “It makes me feel good knowing that there are organizations like this out there to help families in need,” said Greene. “This has been a very fulfilling experience. Being here and making breakfast for these
(May 22, 2017) CWO3 Mitch Ehrhardt prepares bacon and sausage while making breakfast at the Ronald McDonald House Foundation. (Photo by MC3 Joshua David DuFrane)
families is just my way of saying I feel your pain and I am here to help.” Sailors continued cooking as Vickie Kennedy, the house manager at the Ronald McDonald Charity, walked in to the kitchen smiling at the warm reception she received from the Mustangs. “I love having Carl Smith and the rest of the Mustangs here,” said Kennedy. “He has an infectious spirit that brightens everyone’s day and his positive character really helps the families that are staying here start their day in a positive manner.” Kennedy walked around the kitchen talking with the officers thanking them all for coming and posed for several pic-
(May 22, 2017) Members of the GW Mustang Association pose for a photo at the Norfolk Ronald McDonald House Foundation (Photo by MC3 Joshua David DuFrane)
tures with the members of the Mustang Association. “I just want to say thank you all so much for your service and everything y’all do for the community,” said Kennedy. “The actions you guys did today has such a positive impact on the families here and they won’t soon forget the self lessness shown this morning.” Breakfast came to an end as the Mustangs were scattered about the kitchen and dining room. From cleaning the counters and washing dishes to chatting amongst the families who dined a few feet away; for a brief few hours, all worries seemed to drift away with laughter and conversation.
PINNED INPORT
HOWGWSAILORS
CANEARNESWS
I
By MCSN Kristen Cheyenne Yarber
t is extremely important for Sailors to have an understanding of their ship and how it works. They have to be prepared to handle any circumstance or emergency on their ship. In order to maintain warfighting readiness, Sailors are required to get the Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist (ESWS) pin, which certifies that they have a basic knowledge of their shipboard environment. However, Sailors stationed aboard the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) may have a harder time getting their pin because the ship is preparing for its refueling and complex overhaul (RCOH). Prepping for RCOH means many spaces on the ship are secured, making it more difficult for Sailors to get the education they need for their ESWS pin. Despite the hurdles of an RCOH environment, it is still possible to get their pin in port. “I actually achieved both my ESWS and EAWS in the yards, and it is a little more difficult,” said Electronics Technician 2nd Class Amanda Bradow, the surface and air warfare specialist coordinator for GW’s combat systems department. “With systems being pulled from the ship to be overhauled, there are less visual walkthroughs and just more verbal ones.” From the time they check on board, Sailors E4 and below have 30 months
to obtain this qualification, while those E5 and above have 18 months. These Sailors must also have prerequisite qualifications, which include Messenger of the Watch, Petty Officer of the Watch, 3M maintenance, and Damage Control. Logistics Specialist 3rd Class Tennison Dawson earned his pin May 15, 2017. The ship was in port, so he spent that time working toward his pin, and he still managed to get it before his deadline. Dawson said it takes a lot of time and effort to get ESWS, but determination and persistence pays off. He said the first step was getting his green card signed off. The green card is a sheet Sailors use to collect signatures by doing walkthroughs. “During a walkthrough, the subject matter experts will go over the study guide in detail to help the Sailors better understand how things work in their department,” said Bradow. Walkthroughs help Sailors learn about equipment by giving them a hands-on experience. Sailors should bring their green cards and are encouraged to do the walkthrough again to better learn the material. However, certain spaces may be secured during RCOH. When this happens, the subject matter experts teach Sailors through other methods such as photos and illustrations.
When the green card is completely signed off, Sailors have to pass a written exam testing what they have learned about the ship. Once they have passed the test, Sailors will move onto a “murder board” where their shipboard knowledge is put to the test by first class petty officers before moving on to the chief’s board. “Study for the board,” said Dawson. “I studied a few weeks in advance. I just kept drilling it every night.” Dawson said although the board was difficult and the process to get there was lengthy, studying diligently helped the most. The best thing anyone can do to prepare for the board is to study every day. Sailors can access ESWS study material on the GW’s homepage by clicking “Enlisted Warfare Programs” and then clicking “PQS.” In addition, the SCPOA does a walkthrough every Wednesday at 10 a.m. on the FAF in the brown bag area. To begin the process of getting ESWS, contact an ESWS coordinator by going to GW’s homepage, clicking “Enlisted Warfare Programs” and then clicking “ESWS Study Guides & Materials.” Take the next step toward furthering your career and start the process of getting your pin in port.
NEWCAPTAINONDECK THERE CAN ONLY BE ONE
A
ircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) held a change of command ceremony June 5 in the ship’s forecastle. Capt. Glenn Jamison took command from Capt. Timothy C. Kuehhas, who had been in command since January 2015. Rear Adm. Bruce Lindsey, commander, Naval Air Forces Atlantic, was the guest speaker for the ceremony and presented Kuehhas with the Legion of Merit. “Someone once told me the essence of leadership meant to get people to accomplish things they did not know they needed to do or did not want to do,” said Lindsey. “Those Sailors you see around here today believe in his leadership vision. That is why they, as a nuclear powered aircraft carrier team, have accomplished so much. And that is why they have always accomplished their assigned mission, whatever it may be.”
By MC2 Bryan Mai
“I am pleased to be here with you to honor this awesome American, this stellar ship captain, as he humbly turns over command of this great warship and crew in our time honored tradition called the ‘change of command ceremony,’” said Lindsey. Kuehhas ref lected on his time aboard George Washington and how the crew motivated him to accomplish the mission at hand. “Over the two-and-a-half years
that I’ve been here, it has been truly amazing to watch the ‘Spirit of Freedom’ crew at work both at sea and during our maintenance period,” said Kuehhas. “It has been the greatest privilege and honor of my naval career to be able to say that I was a part of this great team. The demands of working on an aircraft carrier are unyielding and I am inspired every day watching over officers, chiefs and crew tackle their many
(June 5, 2017) Capt. Timothy Kuehhas, outgoing commanding officer of USS George Washington (CVN 73), passes through sideboys during a change of command ceremony in the ship’s foc’sle.. (Photo by MC3 Anna Van Nuys)
(June 5, 2017) Capt. Timothy Kuehhas, right, outgoing commanding officer of USS George Washington (CVN 73), receives a parting gift from Command Master Chief James Tocorzic during a change of command ceremony in the ship’s foc’sle. (Photo by MC3 Anna Van Nuys)
and diverse challenges.” Under Kuehhas’ leadership, George Washington achieved the FY15 Battle “E” Award, led the ship through the Navy’s first ever three carrier hull swap from Yokosuka, Japan to San Diego and finally to Norfolk, and prepared
George Washington for the refueling and complex overhaul maintenance at Newport News Shipbuilding. Kuehhas will report to U.S. Fleet Forces, while awaiting follow-on orders, as Jamison looks forward to serving as George
Washington’s 13th commanding officer. It’s a tremendous honor to take command of George Washington,” said Jamison. “I look forward to serving with the ‘Spirit of Freedom’ crew as we transition to refueling and complex overhaul and set the pace for successful redelivery – we are the plank owners to the second half of this great ship’s service life.” Capt. Jamison was the executive officer of aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) and captain of the amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18) prior to taking command of George Washington. George Washington is currently in port preparing to enter Newport News Shipbuilding for the mid-life refueling and complex overhaul.
(June 5, 2017) Capt. Glenn Jamison, left, relieves Capt. Timothy Kuehhas, right, as commanding officer of USS George Washington (CVN 73) during a change of command ceremony in the ship’s foc’sle. (Photo by MC3 Anna Van Nuys)
NAVY NEWS
Future USS Gerald R. Ford Delivered to the Navy From Naval Sea Systems Command Public Affairs
T
he Navy accepted delivery of the future USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) aircraft carrier in Newport News, Virginia, May 31. Delivery followed the ship’s successful completion of acceptance trials May 26. “Congratulations to everyone who has helped bring CVN 78 to this historic milestone,” said Rear Adm. Brian Antonio, program executive officer for aircraft carriers. “Over the last several years, thousands of people have had a hand in delivering Ford to the Navy -- designing, building and testing the Navy’s newest, most capable, most advanced warship. Without a doubt, we would not be here without the hard work and dedication of those from the program office, our engineering teams and those who performed and oversaw construction of this incredible warship. It is because of them that Ford performed so well during acceptance trials, as noted by the Navy’s Board of Inspection and Survey.” “Well done to our shipbuilding partners, Ford’s crew and everyone who supported them,” said Vice Adm. Tom Moore, commander, Naval Sea Systems Command, who also embarked for acceptance trials. Ford is the lead ship of its class and the first new-design aircraft carrier delivered to the Navy since USS Nimitz (CVN 68) in 1975. It is
also the first aircraft carrier to join the fleet since USS George H. W. Bush (CVN 77) delivered in 2009. The future USS Gerald R. Ford honors the 38th president of the United States and pays tribute to his lifetime of service to the nation in the Navy and in the U.S. government. The next generation of aircraft carrier, the Gerald R. Ford class delivers unprecedented flexibility to the fleet. Due to a larger flight deck, the ability to host more aircraft, additional weapons and aviation fuel storage, and the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System and Advanced Arresting Gear, Ford will be able to increase sortie rates by one-third when compared to the Nimitz class. Further, the Navy’s newest aircraft carrier generates three times the amount of electricity as previous classes and is de-
signed to rapidly add capabilities as new systems become available over the course of its projected 50year service life. Ford will be commissioned into the fleet this summer, formally placing the ship into active service. Following this, there will be a “shakedown” period where the ship will conduct several at-sea events to provide longer underway periods for the ship’s crew to operate and train on ship’s systems. In addition, planned deferred work will be performed, and any deficiencies identified during trials will be addressed during in-port periods. Ford is expected to be operational in 2020 following achievement of initial operational capability. For more news from Naval Sea Systems Command, visit www. navy.mil/local/navsea/.
CVN MAZE
GAMES CROSSWORD
HARD SUDOKU
Intermediate Sudoku Puzzles by KrazyDad, Book 9
SUDOKU Sudoku #1 2 9 7 3 1 2
8
4 3 8
2
6 7 6 2 5 4
1 7 9 1 3 6 © 2012 KrazyDad.com
Fill in the blank squares so that each row, each column and each 3-by-3 block contain all of the digits 1 thru 9. If you use logic you can solve the puzzle without guesswork.
Take it easy, we're in a hurry.
5