EST. 2011
OCTOBER 2017
INSIDE Cyber Awareness Habitat for Humanity CSADD
COMMANDING OFFICER Capt. Mark A. Melson EXECUTIVE OFFICER Capt. David M. Oden COMMAND MASTER CHIEF CMDCM (SW/AW) Larry A. Lynch PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICER ENS Kassandra Collins DEPUTY PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICER MCC (SW/AW) James Thierry MEDIA LEADING PETTY OFFICER MC1 (SW/AW) Larry Carlson LEAD EDITOR MC2 (SW/AW/IW) Dennis Grube LAYOUT DESIGN MC2 (SW) Devin M. Langer STAFF MC1 (NAO/AW) Mathew Diendorf MC1 (SW) John Hetherington MC2 Eric Zeak MC3 Asher Allen
AROUND THE ISLAND is an authorized publication for the crewmembers of USS MAKIN ISLAND (LHD 8). Contents herein are not necessarily the views of, or endorsed by the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense, the Department of the Navy or the Commanding Officer of MAKIN ISLAND. ATI is edited, prepared and provided by the MKI media division. All news releases, photos or information for publication in AROUND THE ISLAND must be submitted to the PAO. All submissions are edited for accuracy, clarity, brevity and conformance to style. The staff reserves the right to edit or reject any submission.
On The Cover DC1 Patrick Butters Poses for an Environmental Portrait
Photo of the Month
By MC2 Dennis Grube “HT2 Raymond Gorospe measures the length of wood to install a new fence”
FEATURE
7 Always Vigilant 13 COMREL
Sailors Volunteer at Habitat for Humanity
MKI Recognizes the Importance of Cyber Awareness NEWSWORTHY
5 A Ride for Awareness 11 Makin Constructive Decisions
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Makin’ Constructive Decisions U.S. Navy story by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Eric Zeak
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SS Makin Island (LHD 8) entered a floating dry dock on Aug. 25, and Sailors have more free time than previously experienced on deployment. A non-operational work schedule offers the opportunity for self-improvement, however it’s not always easy to stay productive. Fortunately, the Coalition of Sailors Against Destructive Decisions (CSADD) is here to help. CSADD is a program geared toward young Sailors and aims to prevent destructive behavior and build leadership skills both on and off-duty. It gives junior personnel the opportunity to help each other through peer-to-peer interaction. Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Fuel) 3rd Class Sherelle Merino is the president of Makin Island’s CSADD, and she said the program is a great opportunity for the Makin Island crew. “We offer many activities for our Sailors,” said Merino. “The events are fun and provide an alternative to making bad decisions.” The Makin Island CSADD recently hosted a mixer at the Pacific Beacon, a resort-style military apartment community. The event offered burgers, hot dogs, music and games. Logistics Specialist Seaman Titus Bryant attended the CSADD mixer. “It was a great time being around strong-minded
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people,” said Bryant. “Nothing destructive comes to mind when you’re having a fun time. I’m looking forward to the future events.” The Makin Island CSADD holds weekly meetings and is always working to expand its membership. “We’re open to suggestions for events, and we’re looking for new ideas,” said Merino. “New members have the chance to be directly involved in the event-planning process. It’s a good experience to be in an organizational role like that, and it’s also a good leadership opportunity.” Chief Aviation Ordnanceman Benjamin Callen is the Makin Island CSADD advisor. He hopes Sailors will utilize their time wisely and stay productive while Makin Island is in dry dock. “We should always strive to better ourselves,” said Callen. “Whether it’s attending the CSADD functions, volunteering at a COMREL, or working on a degree, we need to make good decisions. Our Sailors should know there are plenty of options out there.” The Makin Island CSADD will continue to develop fun, safe, and productive activities for junior Sailors to participate in, while helping them build their Navy careers on a solid foundation.
HEALTH LITERACY
NAVY AND MARINE CORPS PUBLIC HEALTH CENTER PREVENTION AND PROTECTION START HERE
FOUR TIPS ON TALKING TO YOUR DOCTOR FOR BETTER HEALTH No one really likes going to the doctor for their annual physical. Sometimes health concerns are embarrassing. Often, when an illness or injury occurs, Sailors and Marines “suck it up” and may avoid seeing a Doc or not bring it up when they do. But if an injury, pain, or a health symptom persists it may suggest something that will not go away on its own or may become a bigger problem if not treated. Plus, the Agency for Health Care Research and Quality (AHRQ) indicates that people who talk to their doctors and take part in their care are more satisfied with their health care and have better results. To get the most out of your visit, follow these tips to help maintain medical readiness and to live the healthy life you want.
Make a list of the concerns or questions you have or the topics you want to talk about. Take note of any problems that you are having, the medicines you are taking (both prescription and over-the-counter), and any current medical conditions. It will help you prioritize the points you need to discuss and help you stay on track.
Tip 2: Be detailed
The more information you give on your health history, medications, or concerns you may be experiencing, the better. Talk about your symptoms, how long they have been occurring, when you experience them, and what makes you feel better or worse. With this information, providers can make the best recommendations for your health care, tests, or next steps.
Tip 3: Be honest
Patients can be reluctant or embarrassed to talk about a health concern, but doctors have heard it all before – if you don’t tell them what’s up, they can’t help. People sometimes fudge the truth on smoking or the amount of exercise, proper use of medications, or if they are really following their doctor’s orders. Be honest, this information is important to determine the best care or treatment options for you.
Tip 4: Ask questions
Make sure you really understand what’s going on and your doctor’s recommendations. Repeat your doctor’s recommendations in your own words to make sure you really get it and he or she can correct any misunderstandings. Ask for brochures, videos, websites, or other resources that may help you learn more. If you made a list of questions or concerns before going to your visit, make sure you get answers. If you don’t understand, ask more questions or ask the doctor to explain again. The AHRQ suggests the following potential questions: 3 What is my diagnosis? 3 What are my treatment options? What are the benefits? What are the side effects? 3 Will I need a test? What is the test for? What will the results tell me? 3 What will this prescription medication do? How do I take it? Are there any side effects? Will this have an effect with any other medications I am already taking? 3 Why do I need surgery? Are there other ways to treat my condition? How often do you perform this surgery? 3 Do I need to change my daily routine? Do I need to make lifestyle changes? 3 Do I need to come back for a follow-up appointment on this concern? If so, when? 09/22/14
Tip 1: Make a list
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The Cycle of Service
Sailors Help Renovate WWII Veteran’s Home U.S. Navy story by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Dennis Grube
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n a cool Wednesday morning, power tools buzzed as Sailors labored in the front yard of retired U.S. Navy veteran Ray Chavez. Clouds of sawdust rolled across the sunny sky while Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) 2nd Class Jenna Leggett, a 10-year Navy veteran assigned to USS Makin Island (LHD 8), worked a circular saw with expert precision. Makin Island’s Chaplain department hosted a community relations (COMREL) event in cooperation with Habitat for Humanity to help renovate a fence on the property of Chavez, a retired Chief Quartermaster, in Poway, Calif., Oct. 4. ”COMRELs provide an outlet for an essential human
quality. Namely, the desire to give back and to benefit our community,” said Lt. Cmdr. Aaron Carlton, a chaplain aboard Makin Island. “Sailors want to make the world a better place.” COMRELs are scheduled regularly to give all Sailors the chance to help those in need through serving food, renovating homes and other various opportunities. Although the goal of each event may be uniform, the motivation behind each Sailor’s participation is unique. “I’ve been in a place where I needed help before,” said Leggett. “Now that I’m in a better position to help, I like to extend my hand to those who aren’t whenever I get the chance.” Leggett explained that this particular project was significant due to whose home she was repairing. Chavez, at 105 years young, is the oldest surviving Pearl Harbor veteran. He lives with his daughter, Kathleen, who is also a veteran, serving from 1971 to 1990. She was one of the Navy’s first female jet mechanics, working on the F-14 Tomcats. “After speaking with them [Chavez and his daughter], it makes it more personal,” said Leggett. “A project like this really hits home because they are the ones who paved the way for me. Who would I be if I didn’t reach out to help them when they need it?” The Habitat for Humanity construction superintendent, Dale Maxwell, echoed her sentiments. “I never had the opportunity to serve with the Navy or any other branch of the military, so, instead, I give back by serving and helping the veterans who have helped me to live during a long period of peace in this country.”
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Speaking on behalf of her father and herself, Kathleen expressed gratitude to the Sailors for spending their time with Habitat for Humanity to help out her family. “It is so wonderful that they care about us old folks,” chuckled Kathleen. “When I was younger, I could keep up with all the labor involved, but now, having to help my father, it’s so great to receive a helping hand from the younger generations of Sailors.” Beaming with pride, Carlton expressed his gratitude to the Sailors for donating their day to those who helped pave the way for today’s service members. Breeding a cycle of service, Sailors helping Sailors, especially those from a previous generation, is such a huge deal and our way to thank them for their service and the opportunities they afforded us, he added. COMRELs, such as those helping veterans, help build a bridge of camaraderie between those currently serving, and those who laid the groundwork beforehand. By taking the time to help those who previously wore the uniform, this group of Makin Island Sailors are able to continue the cycle of service one plank of cedar at a time.
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Changes to CMS-ID Mean More Opportunities at Negotiation U.S. Navy story by Navy Personnel Command Public Affairs
MILLINGTON, Tenn. -- The Navy announced, in NAVADMIN 231/17, that job announcement windows and the period of time Sailors have to negotiate orders are changing within the Career Management System Interactive Detailing (CMS-ID), Sept. 18. Sailors’ negotiation timeframes in CMS-ID are being extended by three months allowing earlier applications for advertised billets. This longer timeframe also means Sailors will have more billets available from which to choose. “These changes further enhance NPC’s (Navy Personnel Command) commitment to meeting fleet readiness requirements by aligning the most qualified Sailors to our most critical billets,” said Rear Adm. John F. Meier, assistant commander for career management, Navy Personnel Command. “Additionally, the longer window provides greater opportunity for Sailor choice in the assignment process, while providing greater lead time for orders release and overseas/sea-duty screenings.” Previously, the orders negotiation window was seven to nine months before a Sailor’s projected rotation date (PRD). With the new policy, Sailors will begin negotiating and applying for advertised billets seven to 12 months before their PRD. In addition to an increased order negotiation timeframe, advertised billets will now have 9 ati
a two-month requisition window. The longer requisition window adds more available billets for Sailors negotiating orders. In order to accommodate these changes, the Career Waypoints (C-Way) application timeline has been extended. Sailors may obtain reenlistment authority prior to negotiating in CMS-ID by starting the C-Way application window 16 months prior to their soft expiration of active obligated service (SEAOS) and PRD. This roll out is determined based on their SEAOS. CMS-ID is a web-based system that allows Sailors to view available jobs and make their own applications or apply through their command career counselor. Sailors can view CMS-ID through a secure website located at http://www.cmsid.navy.mil.
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How One Sailor Rides to Help Veterans U.S. Navy story by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Mathew Diendorf
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weeping across the dusty San Bernardino Mountains, USS Makin Island (LHD 8) Sailor, Damage Controlman 1st Class Patrick Butters cut through the canyon, leading a pack of 42 motorcycles roaring and rumbling through 40 miles of Ortega Highway like a stampede. Butters helped organize an event hosted by American Infidels Veteran’s Motorcycle Club in Trabuco Canyon, Sept. 30. The Veterans Benefit Poker Run set out to raise money and awareness for wounded veterans, donating 100% of the proceeds to 22KILL. 22KILL is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness about veteran suicide and Post Traumatic Stress (PTS), and to help veterans through empowerment and prevention programs. “Rides like this help bring awareness to the veteran suicide pandemic,” Butters said. “We are here to help our fellow veterans and their
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families, educate the public on current veteran’s issues, and to help our communities any way we can.” Butters’ passion for improving the lives of veterans has helped shape his goals for his career after the Navy. “I’m in the middle of working on my degree,” he said. “My intention is to get my bachelor’s in behavioral psychology with an emphasis on addiction. After I retire, I want to work directly with vets. The suicide in veterans is mostly linked to substance abuse. Those demons tend to get bottled up, and most lean on things that make us forget. That tends to be alcohol or drugs.” Butters uses experiences in his own life to help other veterans who might be going through the same issues. He grew up in a lower-middle class household in Las Vegas, where he witnessed some of his family lose battles with addiction
and substance abuse. “I’ve had two family members commit suicide,” Butters said, “so this hits really close to home. And in 2008, my ex-wife was 7 months pregnant and lost the baby. One of my Chiefs noticed something wasn’t quite right with me and asked me how I was doing. Sometimes all you need to do is talk.” A Veteran’s Association report from 2012 found that an average of 22 veterans die by suicide every day. Through its own programs and partnerships with organizations across the nation, 22KILL offers veterans programs and resources to help them find purpose outside of the military. It also allows them to reconnect with fellow brothers and sisters and regain that sense of camaraderie in their civilian life.
that much money, my cheeks hurt from smiling,” Butters said. “We are just trying to as much as we can, and every penny counts.” Wearing a grin that stretches from ear to ear, Butters rides ahead of his pack, men and women converging from different paths to share the same dusty mountain road. Their goal is the same: to bring support to veterans and their families.
“The other thing is post traumatic growth,” Butters said. “Not focusing on the stress. Who wants to sit and think about the negative stuff. Getting vets into different rehabilitation programs, whether it’s painting, scuba diving, fishing, hunting; things to help them grow to see something beyond what’s in their head. Keeping them occupied and showing them there is light at the end of the tunnel.” By the end of the ride, the Veterans Benefit Poker Run raised $6,500 . “Seeing that many people show up, and raising
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ALWAYS VIGILANT
Cyber Awareness Remains Crucial, Even In Dry Dock U.S. Navy story by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Asher Allen
he amphibious assault ship USS T Makin Island (LHD 8) rests securely in dry dock at National
Steel and Shipbuilding Company (NASSCO), and some Sailors may be inclined to believe that this means there is no need for vigilant cyber awareness. Chief Warrant Officer Brian Niebauer, the information warfare officer aboard Makin Island, disagrees. “Cyber awareness is not something that only applies while you are at work,” Niebauer says. “Cyber awareness should be part of your everyday existence—just like breathing, eating, and drinking water. Doesn’t matter where you’re located, doesn’t matter what your current job is. As a Navy Sailor, you are an attractive target. People want to know what you know. Even if you think you know nothing, I promise you, you know enough that they could use that information against us.” Niebauer says that a lack of awareness can have far-reaching consequences. “We are so interconnected. And by we, I don’t just mean we as people,
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but as companies. Gas, electric, water. All of these things are so interconnected via computers that in the event of some kind of attack, we could lose all of that. Everybody needs to be aware that the threat exists, and not ignore it like a monster underneath the bed; not just crawl under the blankets and hope it will go away. We have to understand that it exists and prepare for it, and also strengthen our networks to avoid any kind of carnage.” October is Cyber Awareness Month, and Niebauer says this time serves as good annual reminder that we should be ever vigilant. “Practice good password management, never leave your devices unattended, always be careful when clinking on attachments in an email. For sensitive browsing, do it only on your own devices. Back up your information on a regular basis, and be careful what you plug into your devices,” said Niebauer. “Monitor all of your accounts. If you have ignored changing your password for the last year—well, hey, it’s Cyber Awareness Month. Why not go ahead and do that now?”
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