ATI JUNE 2014 by USS Makin Island (LHD 8)

JUNE 2014

INSIDE: Embrace Your Culture: Asian/ Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Fun Fitness:

MWR Hosts P.M. Power Hour

All Aboard:

Midshipmen board MKI to gain fleet experience

PLUS:

An Evening to Remember MKI Celebrates Mother’s Day

Refueling Master The Essential Job of The ABF’s

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TABLEofCONTENTS Commanding Officer:

Master Chief’s Corner........................................Pg 3

Executive Officer: CAPT MICHAEL S. FEYEDELEM

MKI Host Midshipmen......................................Pg 4 An Evening to Remember................................Pg 5

Command Master Chief: CMDCM(SW/AW) THOMAS

Public Affairs Officer: LT MICHAEL L. SMITH

Asian/ Pacific Islander Heritage..................Pg 6,7

Deputy PAO:

Team Raider.......................................................Pg 8,9

MedIa LCPO:

P.M. Power Hour............................................Pg 10,11

Lead Editor:

Refueling Masters.......................................Pg 12,13

Copy Editor/ Quality

MCC(AW/EXW) BRADLEY SAPP MCC(SW/AW) ADAM VERNON MC2(AW) LAWRENCE DAVIS

MC1(SW) CORWIN COLBERT

Opinion Island...................................................Pg 14 C.F.L. Reminder..................................................Pg 14 CSADD Note.......................................................Pg 14 MKI’s MWR Corner............................................Pg 15

Staff: MC1(SW/AW/SCW) RONALD GUTRIDGE

MC2(SW) PRINCESS BROWN MC3(SW) KORY ALSBERRY MC3 ETHAN TRACEY MCSN ROBIN PEAK AROUND THE ISLAND is an authorized publication for the crew

member 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. AROUND THE ISLAND 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 Public Affairs Office. All submissions are edited for accuracy, clarity, brevity and conformance to style. The staff reserves the right to edit or reject any submission.

Are you ready to become a Surface Warrior ?

ESWS Trivia?

A. What frames are MKI’s CPS Zones? B. What are the three operating modes of the CHT system? C. What PSI output are MKI’s HPACs? D. What’s the max distance of SPS-49? Answers available on page 14

On The Cover: HT1(SW/AW) Gutierrez cuts sheet metal using a pneumatic grinders in the HT shop aboard USS Makin Island (LHD 8). Photo by MC2(AW) Lawrence Davis

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Master Chief’s Corner This Month’s contributor: ETCM Jeremy L. Harris

The last few articles have done a great job discussing ways to prepare for deployment, so I thought I’d discuss the deployment itself. In my 17 years of Naval service I’ve spent almost four years deployed away from homeport. Every deployment is different and presents its own unique challenges, but they offer us some great benefits as well. Let me jump right in by saying the hard part is almost over. The last few months included an aggressive schedule where we’ve faced certifications, inspections and training exercises, all of which served to stress test the ship to ensure we’re ready for the rigors of an overseas deployment. At home, we’ve had to plan and prepare in other ways to ensure everything is taken care of while we’re away. It’s been a challenging time on all fronts, and I’d like to thank each of you for your dedication as well as to congratulate you on the successes that your hard work produced. Only CERTEX and POM period stand between us and our upcoming deployment. Once MAKIN ISLAND sails out of San Diego heading toward the Seventh Fleet a great weight will lift from our shoulders. No longer will we be pulled in a dozen different

directions by simultaneous assessments… we’ll be able to focus on what we joined the Navy to do. Operate a United States warship deployed halfway around the globe. Chances are there are many things you wanted to get done for your division over the last few months, but couldn’t due to a series of high priority assignments. Rather than resting on your well-earned laurels, now’s the chance to knock those projects out. For me, there’s nothing better than going to bed at the end of the day knowing I accomplished something and knowing that I made an impact. Deployment is your chance to look ahead and make a difference; leaving your division, department or the entire command better than when you arrived. It’s not all about work however, deployment is also about taking some time out for yourself. The Navy offers us the chance to see the world in a way that very few people get to do, so take advantage of it! Rather than hitting the nearest club to blow off some steam, set-aside time to tour a few amazing historical sites and take in the local culture. Onboard there will be numerous special evolutions going on, making it far easier to complete your ESWS and EAWS. The skills and knowledge acquired through

the process will make you a more versatile Sailor, and the qualification itself will benefit your career. Whether you intend to stay Navy or transition to civilian life, NC PACE courses and other online classes allow you to better yourself even while deployed away from homeport. Now that you’ve left your mark on the ship and taken care of your own personal enrichment, how about giving back to a shipmate? Some of our crew is brand new, and an even larger portion has never deployed before. Your experience and guidance could make this period much smoother for one of your fellow Sailors. Take somebody under your wing and set him or her on the path toward greater success. That one additional watch stander, nozzle man or security force member could make the world of difference. Deployment is coming, bringing with it countless new opportunities for each of us. The question is; what are YOU going to do to make the most of it?

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Makin Island Hosts Midshipmen By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Robin Peak, MKI Public Affairs

hile most college students spend their summers vacationing with family or getting a job at the local grocery store, four midshipmen will have spent some of their summer on the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8). The Naval Academy and Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) require midshipmen to get underway on naval vessels to help them gain real fleet experience prior to commissioning. “The idea for this cruise is for them to live the life of an enlisted Sailor,” said Ensign Kelsey C. Learned, from Federal Way, Wash., a surface warfare officer aboard Makin Island. Learned is also a graduate from the Naval Academy. She is helping facilitate the midshipmen’s experience by assigning them running mates, organizing tours and answering any questions they have. Learned said even though the academy is a military institution, experiencing shipboard life and its routines firsthand is essential in developing competent officers. “There’s a big difference between reading about it and actually seeing it for yourself,” said Learned. “They see us working with the Marines, conducting flight operations, running an engineering plant and how it’s all put together for our mission.” For at least two of the four midshipmen, it was their first time underway on a naval vessel. “I really didn’t know what to expect coming here,” said Midshipmen 2nd Class Ben Tamburello, from Hoover, Ala. “I’ve been with first division on the deck and it’s been great. A lot of hard work goes on down there, and it’s been cool to be a part of.” While first class midshipmen (seniors) hone their leadership skills by shadowing a junior officer, second and third class midshipmen, juniors and sophomores respectively, experience the enlisted side and get a deckplate view of fleet life. “Everybody has been really friendly and accommodating,” said Midshipmen 3rd Class Corin Cline, from Garland, Texas. “Just today an enlisted guy in the berthing came up to me and asked how I was doing and how I was adapting. You could tell he just

really cared and wanted to help me out.” For Tamburello and Cline, the experience is eye-opening and humbling. “It’s helped me gain so much respect for the enlisted Sailors,” said Tamburello. “I’ve seen first hand how they live, how hard they work, the kind of jobs they do, where they’re from and who they are.” Tamburello went on to say, “It’s been an opportunity for me to earn their respect for when I become an officer.” The midshipmen had the opportunity to ride on Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCACs) during well deck operations and were able to participate with Combat Cargo in loading and securing vehicles for transport on the LCACs. The midshipmen also had the opportunity to get damage control training, Makin Island specific engineering training and a chance to speak with the command leadership including Commanding Officer Capt. Alvin Holsey. “It’s helped me get a bigger picture of the Navy,” said Cline. “All I’ve really known is what’s at the academy. Being here, I’ve really been able to expand that vision.” Tamburello expressed how this experience will assist him in his not-sodistant future. “This is really helpful in deciding what I want to do as an officer, especially being on Makin Island because there are so many different kinds of officers here,” he said. “Whether it’s surface warfare officers, naval aviators, Marine officers, Marine aviators,” said Tamburello, “I’ve been able to get all of those different perspectives.” Having done a cruise aboard Makin Island, the Midshipmen also experienced first hand the Navy’s first hybrid ship with two LM2500+ gas turbines and two auxiliary propulsion motors. The ship has the capability to transit at high speeds using its twin gas turbines and switch to transiting at low speeds using the auxiliary propulsion system in an effort to save fuel. Learned said, “They get to experience where the Navy has been and also where the Navy is going.” At summer’s end, the midshipmen will return to school with new experiences, a wealth of knowledge and some invaluable mentoring, both enlisted and officer, that will better prepare them for their futures.

ATI

Mother’s Day An evening to remember By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Stacy M. Atkins Ricks, USS Makin Island Public Affairs

USS Makin Island (LHD 8) hosted a Mother’s Day celebration for all of the moms stationed aboard the amphibious assault ship in the Carlson Cafe, May 11. Supply Department hosted the two-part event to show appreciation for the female Sailors and Marines aboard who are also “moms.” “It’s just a morale booster for everyone to get together and talk about their kids,” said Culinary Specialist 1st Class (SW/AW) Sabrina Pierce, one of the coordinators of the Mother’s Day celebration. “It’s just a little something to brighten the day since we work so hard and we’re not home with our children.” The first portion of the occasion was a tea party open to Sailor and Marine moms of all ranks and pay grades. The moms were seated and served assorted teas, coffee, pastries and treats by the command’s food service staff. The moms were also treated

to the harmonies of the Makin Island Choir as they enjoyed their delicacies and gushed about their bundles of joy back home. Culinary Specialist 2nd Class (SW/AW) Matthew Richard, from New Orleans, was one of the crewmembers that expressed his gratitude by serving tea to the mothers. “I have a wife and a daughter at home,” said Richard. “She is a strong pillar in my household so I always love to give back, especially to mothers.” Part two of the event, was a cake cutting ceremony. With Commanding Officer Capt. Alvin Holsey, Command Master Chief Thomas Moore, and Food Service Officer Chief Warrant Officer Carlos Solinap present for the occasion, the cake was sliced and served to the entire crew along with a special meal for dinner. Sailor moms such as Operations Specialist 2nd Class Felicia Blackburn,

from Hayward, Calif., look forward to pictures and mail from home to help ease the transition of being away from loved ones. “It’s my first holiday away from my daughter so it’s a little hard,” said Blackburn. “It helps having other moms here because they can relate to what’s going on.” During the event bonds and mentorships were being forged as the moms found new means of support in each other, as they shared stories of serving at sea. “We have to take care of each other. We are all moms here and we have this job to do,” said Chief Culinary Specialist (SW/AW) Maria Sardono, leading chief petty officer of the food service division. “Events like this remind us that we are Sailors, but we are also human beings and events like this help us cope with being away from home.”

MKI Recognizes Strength in Diversity

Asian & Pacific Heritage By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Ethan Tracey, MKI Public Affairs

ailors serving aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8), along with Marines from the embarked 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), observed Asian and Pacific American Heritage Month with a ceremony on the ship’s messdecks, May 29. The event celebrated the cultural diversity and contributions made by Asian and Pacific service members past and present. Makin Island’s Diversity Committee organized the event that included a display of traditional clothing and a cake-cutting ceremony. “The Navy is made up of many diverse cultures that help make it so great,” said Capt. Michael Feyedelem, Makin Island’s executive officer and guest speaker for the ceremony. Feyedelem explained how a hero doesn’t have to be somebody that outranks you.

“One of my heroes is here today: Logistics Specialist 2nd Class Danni Li,” said Feyedelem. “She joined the Navy in 2010 and could barely speak any English and is now a second class petty officer who is dual warfare qualified and our Junior Sailor of the Year and I think that is remarkable.” Li was one of the Sailors who wore traditional clothing to display during the ceremony. “I am wearing a Qi Pao, an early 17th Century traditional Chinese dress made of silk,” said Li. “I chose to wear this because I like the color and the way it fits.” Other clothing modeled during the ceremony was a Philipino Barong worn by Aviation Boatswains Mate (Handling)

2nd Class Raymond Tangi, a Korean Hanbok worn by Ship’s Serviceman 2nd Class Kyung Kim and a Vietnamese Ao Dai worn by Fire Controlman 2nd Class Thao Miller Lt. Michael Baun, a guest speaker for the event, spoke about Fred Korematsu. Fred T. Korematsu was a national civil rights hero. In 1942, at the age of 23, he refused to go to the government’s incarceration camps for Japanese Americans. After he was arrested and convicted of defying the government’s order, he appealed his case all the way to the Supreme Court. In 1944, the Supreme Court ruled against him, arguing that the incarceration was justified due to military necessity. “Something he said that really speaks to me

is: ‘If you have the feeling that something is wrong, don’t be afraid to speak up,’” said Baun. “I think that we do a great job of that on the Makin Island.” The ceremony concluded with an official cake-cutting which all hands were invited to. The Wasp-class amphibious assault ship was commissioned in 2009 and is the newest of its kind capable of utilizing surface and air assets to move Marine forces ashore. The ship was named in honor of the daring World War II raid carried out by Marine Raider Companies A and B, Second Raider Battalion, on Japanese held Makin Island Aug. 17-18, 1942. LHD 8 is the second ship to bear the name “USS Makin Island.”

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KI Sailors are taking charge of their physical readiness by using on board fitness resources during their time off and making strides towards staying physi-

cally fit and mission ready. With the Spring cycle of this year’s Physical Fitness Assessment (PFA) in full swing, Sailors across the command are taking a serious look at their personal standards. Fitness leaders around the command are seeking to boost the workout culture aboard the ship and are encouraging Sailors to stay active. “The command wants everyone to be in standards, and not just fitness, but also health-wise because if you have certain health issues, it’s hard to perform your job at an optimal level,” said Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) 2nd Class (AW/SW) Nakedia Thompson, assistant Command Fitness Leader (CFL). “I conduct CrossFit and conditioning classes throughout the day and if someone needs personal training, I try to implement that throughout my day and tailor fit to their needs.” All crewmembers are welcome to participate in training events provided by CFLs. Makin Island’s Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) is striving to provide fitness options for everyone aboard, especially in the evening. “Every night we sponsor a MWR fitness event at [8 p.m.] in the hangar bay,” said Kristen Venoy, MWR’s ‘Fun Boss’. “This is something that we will continue to offer while we’re at sea. We are here trying to meet everyone’s fitness likes and needs.” MWR department representatives understand the importance of physical training (PT) for service members and intend on catering to their fitness needs. Hoping to give a fresh face to the exercise routines of Makin Island Sailors, MWR recently sponsored the on-going ‘Biggest Loser’ competition. Many Team Raider Sailors are responding to that challenge with optimism.

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Stacy M. Atkins Ricks, USS Makin Island Public Affairs

“Being involved in MWR programs like the Biggest Loser has definitely motivated me towards being healthier for me and my kids,” said Operations Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Jennifer Mahoney, of Operations Department. “It has definitely changed my attitude towards PT. I’m actually excited to workout and the group setting is motivating.” While many Sailors are finding the benefit of structured training events, some are enjoying the freedom of building their own PT routines from scratch. “I work out on my own daily for an hour to hour and a half, and I try to find time to PT

no matter what,” said Seaman Steven Winders.

schedules so instead of staying in one place,

“I’m trying to join the special warfare program so

just try to get up and stay mobile,” added

I need to be on the top of my game when it comes

Thompson. “Aim for at least 30 minutes a day

to fitness. Sometimes I wish we could run a little

for exercise. Or when you wake up, just try

more, so I plan on doing the 5K [sponsored by

to knock out some push-ups or squats… just

MWR].”

stay active and hydrated.”

Command sponsored fun runs and events are tentative throughout the ship’s upcoming deployment to assist in providing crewmembers with greater fitness options, and with full-time work schedules and limited personal time, Sailors are encouraged to stay flexible when it comes to physical training. “I know we may have some pretty demanding

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Refueling Masters By MassCommunication Specialist 2nd Class(SW) Princess Brown, USS Makin Island (LHD 8) Public Affairs

he glistening sun is shining and the puffy clouds have graced the sky with their presence. This is prefect weather for flight operations. As it begins, you see an intricate dance taking place on the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8). The aviation boatswain’s mate (handlers) guide aircraft onto the flight deck while the Air Boss, Aircraft Handler and Air Boatswain, oversee this evolution to make sure everything flows safe and smooth. In between the signaling, landing and take offs, a small yet important evolution occurs. As the rotors slow their rotation and the pilot gets the signal to shut off the engine, a Sailor dressed in a bright yellow shirt and dark blue pants signals to the captain. His response gives the go ahead to begin a simple yet important evolution. A Sailor steps onto the flight deck, hose in hand, dressed in a dark, rich purple colored jersey prepared to complete the task. There are many Sailors dressed in yellow and blue, but when purple shirts come into view, there is a reassuring feeling. At that moment it is known that the evolution will continue because the “combat fighting grape” has completed his task. The aviation boatswain’s mates (fuels), or ABFs, have gained many nicknames over time. They were known as the “combating fighting grapes,” “fuelies,” “purps” or just simply the “Grapes.” Their job is essential to continue the graceful dance deemed flight operations. “Without the ABFs, the aircraft is not going to leave the deck,” stated Lt. j.g. Chris D. Jones, Makin

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Island’s Air and Fuels Boatswain. “Marines aren’t getting to the beach by air or sea without the fuels guys. They are a very important rate to the mission.” The flight deck is where many notice the ABFs but their jobs do not just begin during flight quarters. “We wake up and just like everybody else, we participate in ‘Raider Round Up’ and then we do maintenance,” said Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Fuels) 2nd Class (AW) Brendon T. Powers. “We have pumps, hoses and gauges that we have to perform maintenance on to maintain mission readiness.” The V-4 division of air department is separated into three work areas: below decks, flight deck and fuel lab. The below deck crew is responsible for the storage, purification of fuel and maintenance. The fuel lab runs daily test on the fuel and the flight deck distributes the fuel and maintains an accurate log of the evolution.

“Every morning before we fuel the aircrafts we check the fuel for water and sediment,” said Aviation Boatswain Mate (Fuels) 3rd Class (AW) Manuel C. DeGuzman. “We have two machines that can detect water and sediment but we use one for water and one for sediment. The Combined Contaminate Fuel Detector detects the water and sediment levels of the fuel.” After the fuel has been tested, it’s time to change the pace of the dance. Now it’s time to verify that the system is good to go. “We check for leaks and op test the system,” stated Powers. “About an hour or two before flight operations, we have to flush the deck which means to run fuel through our entire system to ensure that our system is operating to its full potential.” Once the system has been checked V-4 division is ready for flight operations. “We get a call that aircraft is coming on spot and he’s going to need chocks, chains and

fuel,” Jones explained. “The control talker calls down to the pump room and says ‘I need service to the flight deck.’ So they’re going to start up their pumps and align their service system to send fuel to the flight deck. The fuel travels from the service tank to the service pump through the service filter into the piping up to the flight deck.” When one phase of the process is finished, it’s on to the next step. “The signalman will call out a fuel crew and they will head to whatever station they need to be at,” stated Jones. “You will have a crew leader and two crewmen. The crew leader is in charge of the fuel station and the crewmen will pull the hose out to the aircraft and refuel the aircraft.” All of these are steps are necessary steps to make sure that the flight operations dance continues. The Grapes are making sure that the aircraft can get back into the sky, continuing its mission.

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OPINION ISLAND?

CSADD NOTE June’s Topic of the Month: Motorcycle Safety

What are your plans for POM Period? PT will be in the ship’s gym or on the flight deck from 1400-1500 in port 1400-1500 underway Friday BCAs will be held in Medical’s P-Ward from 0830-0930 in port 0830-0930 underway LS2 Matt Leon

June

“Going to Utah to spend time with family I havent seen in years.”

ASAN Justin EspisitoMcClain “I will work hard. I’m not taking leave until after we get back from deployment.”

BMSN Matthew Fudge “Spendng time with family and friends in Florida.”

Prior to the inception of military motorcycle rider training requirements, it was found that greater than 74% of sport bike riders who were involved in fatal accidents were un-trained. Additionally, sport bike fatalities have, on the average, accounted for greater than 79% of the total motorcycle fatalities, invariably with no training.

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Week 3 Sand Line Drills Abdomen Training Spin with Donna Mock PFA FEP BCA

The requirement for motorcycle training and the development of the Motorcycle Safety Riders Course (MSRC) of instruction for sport bike riders was implemented in 2008 and has significantly impacted the original decrease in fatal mishaps.

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Week 4 Strength Training Swimming Pool Spin with Donna Mock PFA FEP BCA

Motorcyclists are reminded to make themselves visible to other motorists. All motorists are reminded to safely share the road with motorcycles and to be extra alert to help keep motorcyclists safe.

ESWS Answers A- Bow-33, 33-49 B- In Port, Transiting, At Sea C- 3,000 PSI D- 256 nm

Statistics show that the percentage of intoxicated motorcycle riders in fatal crashes is greater than the percentage of intoxicated drivers on our roads. So, CSADD urges all motorcycle riders to always ride smart and sober. Before riding a motorcycle, it is critical for all riders to complete the appropriate training. See your command Motorcycle Safety Representative for more information.

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MKI MWR Feature Family Event Knott’s Berry Farm Enjoy this Summer at Knott’s!

CORNER LOCAL EVENTS IN JUNE Sat. 21 June

Sun. 22 June

1600 Laser Tag (NBPL Liberty Hall)

1500 Water Gun Fight (NBPL The Hub)

1700 Make-Your-Own Granola Bars (NBSD Recyard)

1700 Scenic Sunday: Sunset BBQ (NBPL Liberty Hall)

Fri. 27 June

Sat. 28 June

All Day Transformer Movie Marathon & Trivia (NMCSD Liberty Center)

1000 SeaWorld San Diego (NASNI Liberty Rec)

With dozens of rides, shows and attractions in five themed areas, fun is always in season at Knott’s Berry Farm. This summer marks the grand re-opening of two of Knott’s most beloved attractions - Camp Snoopy and the fully-restored Calico Mine Ride. Ride renovations include the addition of over 50 new state-of-the-art animatronic figures, and special effects that will capture the imagination of would-be miners as they journey deep into the winding caverns of the atraction. See MWR for Discounted Ticket Prices!

1700 Foodie Fridays (NASNI Liberty Rec)

1300 Shooting Range (NBPL Liberty Hall)

For more local San Diego events, check out: http://navylifesw.com/sandiego