WASHINGTON SURVEYOR THE
JunE 13, 2017
FATHER’S DAY GW CELEBRATES DAY OF DADS
MEN’S HEALTH BE AWARE TO SHOW YOU CARE
On the cover: (June 7, 2017) ABH1 Reshawn Orr and ABH1 Abraham Sanchez pose for a picture in the foc’sle aboard the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73). (Photo by MCSN Jamin Gordon)
PHOTO of the DAY
(June 8, 2017) Lt. Cmdr. Gregory Curl gives his wife, Christina Curl, Olde’ Glory during his retirement ceremony in a hangar at the Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training Unit on Naval Station Norfolk. (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*
(June 12, 2017) AT2 Joshua Sabates poses for a photo aboard the aircraft carrier USS George Washington’s (CVN 73). (Photo by MC3 Jacob Goff)
AFATHER’S
LEGACY
By MC3 Jacob Goff
A
father can be the most important inf luence in a young man’s life. He is the first example of what it means to be a man, and the lessons he passes on can stick with his son for life. Aviation Electronics Technician 2nd class Joshua Sabates’ father did just that. “My dad was my superhero,” said Sabates. “He was in the Army, originally from Cuba. He came over here and nothing was given to him. He had to work for everything he had, so a lot of his work ethics were passed on to me.” Sabates’ father has had a huge impact on his life, helping him make some of the biggest decisions in his life and passing on wisdom and values. “I thank him all the time for pushing me to join the military,” said Sabates. “He told me for about a year and a half to just do it—stop talking about it and be about it, so I’m really thankful for that.” Having served in the Army and knowing his son, Reinaldo Sabates knew the military would be a good option for his son. “He saw that nowadays, you have to have work experience along with an education, and this was a good way to get it,” said Sabates. “He also
knew that I had an A-type personality and he knew this would be a good fit for me to stay physical and challenge me mentally as well.” Being away from home, Sabates misses the accessibility to his father most of all. “The fishing, the yardwork together, kicking back a cold one—the guidance of him always being there was great,” said Sabates. “I still get the guidance over the phone and through technology, but with him being physically there every day, I had that role model right in front of me.” During those times, Sabates learned key lessons from his father. “He told me to always be there for
your family and provide for them but he told me the lazy man works double,” said Sabates. “He taught me that boys look inward and always worry about themselves, but a man looks outward to how he can affect his community and those around him.” Sabates’ father exemplifies what many dads around the world believe and put into practice. He is an unwavering, always present and always self less father. That is why we celebrate the great fathers who put their families before themselves and go out of their way to better the lives of others. That is why we celebrate Father’s Day.
Joshua Sabates’ father Reinaldo Sabates, a retired Soldier poses for a photo with his mother.
MEN’S HEALTH BRAIN
Men need folic acid, too! Scientists are finding more and more evidence that high blood pressure, high cholesterol and low levels of the vitamin folate may increase the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. Eat folate-rich foods: fortified cereals and pastas, dark leafy greens, asparagus, broccoli and citrus fruits.
When it comes to preventing disease, eating right and a healthy lifestyle are your strongest line of defense against heart disease, diabetes, cancer, stroke, Alzheimer’s and other diseases. Consult a registered dietitian or visit www.EatRight.org for more information.
HEART AND BLOOD
Did you know you can keep your heart healthy right in your own kitchen? Cooking at home allows you to control the amount of salt and calories from solid fats and added sugars in your food. Stock up on heart-healthy oils like canola, olive or soybean or use non-stick cooking spray to prepare foods.
LUNGS
Smoking dramatically raises your risk for diseases and health complications, but quitting can be difficult and leave you with strong cravings to eat. Choose nutrient-dense foods like whole grains and legumes to curb cravings and keep you feeling fuller, longer. Become a “mindful” eater to truly experience the flavor and aroma of food you may have been missing out on.
PANCREAS
Your pancreas is busy working two jobs to keep you healthy: producing hormones like insulin and aiding in the digestion process. Lend your pancreas a hand by making healthier food choices. Enjoy smaller portions of foods containing solid fats, such as regular cheese, sausage, bacon, pizza and grain-based desserts.
KIDNEYS
The kidneys serve many essential regulatory roles in the human body, but did you know they have perfected a balance of salt and water to regulate blood pressure? Keep the balance intact by replacing lost fluids. Adults lose 10 or more cups of water daily.
BODY MASS INDEX (WAIST) Men gain weight around the middle, placing “extra baggage” around their waist and putting them at risk for serious diseases. Get out the tape measure! If your waist measures more than 40 inches around, it’s time to shed some pounds.
MEN’S HEART
HEALTH
By MC2 Bryan Mai
A
n ounce of prevention is a defining factor in someone’s lifespan and the quality of their life. But many men, despite the symptoms and consequences, are often reluctant to go to the doctor. Many of the illnesses that kill men are either preventable or treatable with early detection and intervention. The number one threat to men’s health in the United States is cardiovascular disease (CVD), or heart disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 321,000 men died from heart disease in 2013, or one in every four male deaths. Making just a few lifestyle changes can significantly lower the risk of heart disease. Common risk factors of heart disease are smoking, drugs, alcohol, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, physical inactivity, obesity and being overweight, an unhealthy diet and stress. “There are modifiable factors you can change and unmodifiable factors you can’t change,” said Lt. Ruth Cortes, the physician assistant aboard the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73). “Modifiable factors are things you can change like your smoking or dietary habits. Unmodifiable factors are things like age, your gender, your race and family history.” To lower their risk of getting a cardiovascular disease (CVD), Sailors can maintain a healthy diet, exercise regularly, not use tobacco products, limit alcohol consumption and have yearly physical examinations to identify any changes in their health. Those yearly examinations are part of the Navy’s man-
dated annual physical health assessment (PHA). “Common risk factors include tobacco use which includes cigarettes, dip, vaping and cigars, high blood pressure or high cholesterol,” said Lt. Stephanie Horigan, George Washington’s Ship’s Nurse and a nationally certified critical care nurse. “Over half of the patients in hospitals for CVD generally have high blood pressure or cholesterol or they use tobacco or a combination of the three.” While both the civilian and military sectors have their share of risk factors, there are many factors the military has that the civilian sector does not. “We are exposed to an environment of higher stress,” said Cortes. “We have easier accessibility to fast food and poor food either on base or off base because they are always close by, peer pressure to start drinking and smoking which can affect cardiovascular risk, and the environmental factors that can’t be changed such as deployments and workload.” Only half of all patients who suffer from heart attacks show symptoms prior to the attack. Symptoms of sudden cardiac events, or heart attacks, include feeling dizzy, racing heartbeat and jaw or arm pain. “There is no definitive way to know if you have a CVD unless you see a medical professional but you can know if you have a higher risk,” said Horigan. “If you’re overweight, you’re a smoker and your mother and father have heart disease, there is a good chance your risk of heart disease is much higher.” The Navy offers a multitude of ways to help Sailors lower risk and improve
their health, like free medical care, free tobacco cessation and free workout programs. The Navy also has programs such as ShipShape, which offers courses on stress management and basic nutrition and weight loss. George Washington also offers basic lifesaving courses such as CPR. “As the ship’s nurse, I highly recommend everyone get CPR trained,” said Horigan. “When someone has a heart attack, effective CPR and early defibrillation is the key to their survival. We give CPR lessons for free every week on the ship. The faster someone receives treatment, the less severe and the better chances of survival that person has. Every minute counts in these situations.” According to the 2014 Defense Manpower Data Center’s Active Duty Military Personnel Master File, 83.5 percent of all service members are male. In 1999, men in the U.S. generally did not make use of health services early in the course of a condition compared to women and have higher mortality rates than women for the 15 leading causes of death, according to a research article by BioMed Central. “Men rarely ever go see a doctor because men are supposed to be tough,” said Cortes. “There are many studies on it. They’re humiliated or called out if they want to go see a doctor even if it’s a legitimate issue. They put it off and put it off until they pass out on the field and someone has to bring them in for dehydration. I think it’s harder for men in the military because of the way they think they’re going to get treated.” According to a 2013 Statistical Fact Sheet from the American Heart Association, more than one in three adult men have some form of CVD. Although it is typical of men to avoid seeing a doctor, it is best for them and their family if they didn’t wait until a condition is severe or irreversible to treat. The earlier a cardiovascular disease is identified, the better the chances of survival.
(June 7, 2017) ABH1 Reshawn Orr and Abraham Sanchez pose for a picture in the foc’sle aboard the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73). (Photo by MC3 Jamin Gordon)
FATHER’S DAY: ADAYFOREVERYDAYHEROES By MC3 Jamin Gordon
Father’s Day is the designated day to recognize fathers and father-figures alike. It is a day that families show appreciation for the men in their lives. Children may see this day as a time to show their dad just how much they love them, while wives may see it as a time to give a token of appreciation, large or small, to their spouses. Fathers, however, often times see this day as something much more dynamic. Although Father’s Day is only recognized once a year, dads make every day father’s day by showing their love and dedication year-round.
German theologian and pastor Dietrich Bonhoeffer wrote in his book Ethics, “A father acts on behalf of his children by working, providing, intervening, struggling and suffering for them. In so doing, he really stands in their place. He is not an isolated individual, but incorporates the selves of several people in his own.” Chief Boatswain’s Mate Edmundo Brantes, a father of 19 years, shares a similar perspective. “Father’s Day is a realization of all the struggles that my father endured for his family,” said Brantes. “It’s
the things you never know about. The sacrifices he made and sucked up to keep a roof over our heads, clothes on our back and food on the table, no matter what. These are things only now I can understand, being a father for the past 19 years.” Unfortunately, not all children have the fortune of growing up with a dad in their home. It is for this reason Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) 1st Class Abraham Sanchez, father of four, is so passionate about being a father. “There are a lot of men who get bad reps [reputations] for people not
(June 7, 2017) ABH1 Reshawn Orr poses for a picture in the foc’sle aboard the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73). (Photo by MC3 Jamin Gordon)
being around,” said Sanchez. “You have people like me who grew up with a stepdad. Father’s Day is a constant reminder that we, somewhere, somehow, have to break that cycle of not being present. For me Father’s Day means we as men are doing the right thing, even if there are only a few of us.” While some people aren’t raised by their biological father, it is people like Sanchez’s stepfather, and Brantes who help break the cycle, and continue to make Father’s Day special. “Being a father is a special day every day I wake up,” said Brantes. “Being in the Navy, I get other
people’s children all the time. I am a father figure to a lot of them at times.” No matter what capacity a person is serving as a father, the little things make the role special. Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) 1st Class Reshawn Orr, also a father of four children, takes comfort in the simple dayto-day things his children do. “It could be as simple as a phone call from them saying, ‘Daddy, I love you,’” said Orr. “What gets me most is when they draw the little stick-figures of our family with hearts, and everyone is so happy. They don’t worry about anything. They just
see the good. To them, you’re their superhero.” Giving is a twoway street. While children give gifts to their dad, fathers give love to their children by providing for them. Each of these actions is their respective ways of showing how much they appreciate their loved one. “I’m not the big gift guy,” said Sanchez. “I feel like I’m supposed to provide for my family, not the other way around. When someone goes out of their way and gives me a card, or my son or daughter makes me a card, that means the world to me.” In addition to giving gifts, some families have traditions for this holiday.
“We used to get together at the person’s house who is most senior, which in my case was my stepdad, but since my father passed, we’ve kind of steered away from it because it’s just not the same anymore,” said Sanchez. As Sailors, these fathers know all too well how precious time is, and how it feels to be away from their family. Since the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) is in port, it is a refreshing breath knowing they will be home to spend Father’s Day with the ones they love most. Brantes, Sanchez and Orr each look forward to the same thing this Father’s Day: family time.
(June 7, 2017) ABH1 Abraham Sanchez poses for a picture in the foc’sle aboard the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73). (Photo by MC3 Jamin Gordon)
MEN’SHEALTH AWARENESSMONTH
PROSTATECANCER: WHATDOYOUKNOW? By MC2 Jules Stobaugh
T
his year alone, there have been about 161,360 new cases of, and about 26,730 deaths from prostate cancer, according to the American Cancer Society. Prostate cancer does not usually occur in men younger than 40, but it can definitely happen. One in seven men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer, and it is the third leading cause of cancer death in American men. Prostate cancer occurs when cells in the prostate gland begin to grow uncontrollably, and it is unknown what exactly causes it to happen. However, there are a couple of known ways that could potentially cause the cancer, including having the mutated gene passed on between generations. This means that if you have had an immediate family member with prostate cancer, this more than doubles your risk of getting it. “Awareness is the key,” said Lt. Ruth Cortes, Physician Assistant aboard USS George Washington(CVN 73). “If you have a fami-
ly history of any cancer, please let medical know. If your father had prostate cancer at 40, we like to start checking you 10 years prior to that.”
“Men are usually more reluctant to go see medical, but if they have issues and don’t go early, it can cause worse symptoms later on.” - Lt. Ruth Cortes Having an enlarged prostate can be an indication of cancer, and that can cause urination to become difficult. However, that does not mean you have prostate cancer, you still need to have a biopsy. “A biopsy is the only way to know for sure if you have prostate cancer,” said Cortes. “A biopsy will test the prostate cells and that way
they can determine if it is in fact cancer.” It is also important to get checked early and often, because if left unchecked, prostate cancer can develop into bladder cancer due to their proximity. Treatment of prostate cancer is similar to the treatment of any other cancer, including chemoradiation, but depending on how far along the cancer is, they may even end up removing the prostate. “Tell medical right away if you have any symptoms or if anything in your normal functions change, please don’t wait,” said Cortes. “Men are usually more reluctant to go see medical, but if they have issues and don’t go early, it can cause worse symptoms later on.” Other risk factors that have been found to possibly cause prostate cancer include a poor diet, obesity, smoking, certain chemical exposures, sexually transmitted diseases, and having a vasectomy. For more information about prostate and other cancers, talk to medical or visit www.cancer.org.
HEALTH TIPS for men about prostate cancer: What you can do Most prostate cancers grow slowly and don’t cause any health problems in men who have them. If you decide not to get screened, you can always change your mind later. If you decide to get screened, it does not mean you have to go to the next step. You should discuss each step with your doctor. Most prostate cancers found by screening are small and slow growing and may not be fatal. Some men may have a faster growing prostate cancer and will benefit from early treatment. Older men, African-American men, and men who have a family history of prostate cancer have a greater risk for developing prostate cancer. If you are concerned that you may have a greater risk for prostate cancer, talk to your doctor about screening.
Screening for Prostate Cancer One screening test for prostate cancer is a blood test, which can be abnormal (not normal) for several reasons besides prostate cancer.
Treatment of prostate cancer may include: ► Close monitoring and follow-up visits ► Radiation ► Surgery to remove the prostate
The only way to know if an abnormal test is due to cancer is to do a biopsy.
Side effects from radiation or surgery may include: ► Impotence ► Loss of bladder control ► Problems with your rectum
A biopsy is a minor surgery to get small pieces of the prostate to look at under a microscope. If the biopsy shows there are cancer cells, then your doctor will discuss treatment options.
Medical groups do not agree on screening recommendations.
Talk with your doctor or nurse to decide together if prostate cancer screening is right for you.
CS264123
NAVY NEWS
T
he Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Lake Erie (CG 70) arrived in Colombo, Sri Lanka, June 11 to support humanitarian assistance operations in the wake of severe flooding and landslides that devastated many regions of the country. The United States Pacific Command will also deploy military aircraft and other specialists who will join in the humanitarian efforts. “We share in the sorrow of the Sri Lankan people at the loss of life and devastation brought on by this disaster,” said Adm. Harry Harris, commander U.S. Pacific Command. “Friends help friends and the United States stands with Sri Lanka during this difficult time. U.S. forces will coordinate with our Sri Lankan counterparts to support recovery efforts. We will work closely with our interagency partners from the U.S. Department of State, U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), and others to ensure continued, timely and swift responses to requests from the Government of Sri Lanka.” Recent heavy rainfalls brought by a southwest monsoon triggered flooding and landslides throughout the country, displacing thousands of people and causing significant damage to homes and buildings. Because of the long-standing friendship between the United States and Sri Lanka, American forces are able to respond with critically needed capabilities. “We’re very proud to have the opportunity to provide relief and assistance
USS Lake Erie, U.S. service members render assistance in Sri Lanka after devastating floods From Task Force 73 Public Affairs
(June 11, 2017) The Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Lake Erie (CG 70) arrives in Colombo, Sri Lanka to support humanitarian assistance operations in the wake of severe flooding and landslides that devastated many regions of the country. (Photo by MC2 Joshua Fulton)
to the citizens of Sri Lanka,” said Capt. Darren McPherson, commanding officer, USS Lake Erie. “Whether it’s rehabilitating flooded areas or providing food and water, our Sailors are well trained for this mission and we are ready to execute on behalf of the United States.” The U.S. military has a history of successfully working with international relief organizations and host nations to provide relief to those affected by disaster. In March 2017, U.S. Navy doctors and civil engineers aboard USNS Fall River (T-EPF 4) visited Hambantota, Sri Lanka for Pacific Partnership, a two week humanitarian and disaster relief preparedness mission, establishing key relationships with the Sri Lankan Navy and civil service agencies in the country. Those relationships are helping U.S. military personnel efficiently integrate into the current Sri Lanka humanitarian response mission. “Americans and Sri Lankans have shared a deep bond throughout the
history of our two countries,” said the U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Atul Keshap. “The people of both countries have always stood side-by-side in times of need.” USS Lake Erie left her homeport of San Diego in May on an independent deployment to the Western Pacific with an embarked detachment from Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 49 (HSM-49). As U.S. 7th Fleet’s executive agent for theater security cooperation in South and Southeast Asia, Commander, Task Force 73 conducts advanced planning, organize resources, and directly support the execution of maritime exercises and engagements, such as Pacific Partnership, the bilateral CARAT series, the Naval Engagement Activity (NEA) with Vietnam and the multi-lateral Southeast Asia Cooperation and Training (SEACAT) with Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, the Philippines, Singapore and Thailand.
CVN
HEALTH/WELLNESS
United States Department of Agriculture
10
tips
Nutrition
Education Series
MyPlate
MyWins Build a healthy meal
Based on the
Dietary Guidelines for Americans
Each meal is a building block in your healthy eating style. Make sure to include all the food groups throughout the day. Make fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy, and protein foods part of your daily meals and snacks. Also, limit added sugars, saturated fat, and sodium. Use the MyPlate Daily Checklist and the tips below to meet your needs throughout the day.
1
Make half your plate veggies and fruits
Vegetables and fruits are full of nutrients that support good health. Choose fruits and red, orange, and dark-green vegetables such as tomatoes, sweet potatoes, and broccoli.
2
Include whole grains
Aim to make at least half your grains whole grains. Look for the words “100% whole grain” or “100% whole wheat” on the food label. Whole grains provide more nutrients, like fiber, than refined grains.
3
Don’t forget the dairy
Complete your meal with a cup of fat-free or low-fat milk. You will get the same amount of calcium and other essential nutrients as whole milk but fewer calories. Don’t drink milk? Try a soy beverage (soymilk) as your drink or include low-fat yogurt in your meal or snack.
4
Add lean protein
Choose protein foods such as lean beef, pork, chicken, or turkey, and eggs, nuts, beans, or tofu. Twice a week, make seafood the protein on your plate.
5
Avoid extra fat
Using heavy gravies or sauces will add fat and calories to otherwise healthy choices. Try steamed broccoli with a sprinkling of low-fat parmesan cheese or a squeeze of lemon.
Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion
USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.
6
Get creative in the kitchen
Whether you are making a sandwich, a stir-fry, or a casserole, find ways to make them healthier. Try using less meat and cheese, which can be higher in saturated fat and sodium, and adding in more veggies that add new flavors and textures to your meals.
7
Take control of your food
Eat at home more often so you know exactly what you are eating. If you eat out, check and compare the nutrition information. Choose options that are lower in calories, saturated fat, and sodium.
8
Try new foods
Keep it interesting by picking out new foods you’ve never tried before, like mango, lentils, quinoa, kale, or sardines. You may find a new favorite! Trade fun and tasty recipes with friends or find them online.
9
Satisfy your sweet tooth in a healthy way
Indulge in a naturally sweet dessert dish—fruit! Serve a fresh fruit salad or a fruit parfait made with yogurt. For a hot dessert, bake apples and top with cinnamon.
10
Everything you eat and drink matters
The right mix of foods in your meals and snacks can help you be healthier now and into the future. Turn small changes in how you eat into your MyPlate, MyWins.
Go to ChooseMyPlate.gov for more information.
DG TipSheet No. 7
June 2011 Revised October 2016