Tried, Tested, Trued
122 Years of Deckplate Leadership
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LCDR KYLE RAINES Public Affairs Officer
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EXECUTIVE EDITORS
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CAPT KARL THOMAS Commanding Officer
LT TREVOR DAVIDS Assistant Public Affairs Officer
EDITORS-IN-CHIEF MCC(SW/AW) RUSSELL TAFURI
Media Department Leading Chief Petty Officer
MCC(AW/SW/EXW) DAVID CRAWFORD
MEDIA DEPARTMENT
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Farewell Dubai
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Making Waves: Carl Vinson Bos’n
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Golden Eagles vs. Dubai Sharks
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Deckplate Leadership: 122 Years
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French, U.S. Navies Integrate
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PUBLISHER
Volume 6 Issue 12 April 12, 2015
Media Operations Leading Chief Petty Officer
ASSISTANT EDITOR
MC1(SW/AW) TRAVIS S. ALSTON MC1(SW/AW) RYAN TABIOS
GRAPHICS/LAYOUT MC3 Patrick Menah
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ON INS SON LV AR RL VIN N C O N SO N CA INS ON MC3(SW) SHANTECE GONZALEZARL VINVINSO CARL V L VINS N R O N L N C CAR NSO N CA VINS SON MC3 PATRICK MENAH I SO N O L SO VIN INSON ARL V VINS CAR RL VIN ON L R LV VIN MC3(SW/AW) CURTIS D. N C CARL NSON N CA VINS SON CASPENCER RL R O A N I S A IN SO RL IN SO NC ON LV MCSN D’ANDRE L.C RODEN SO VIN INSON ARL V VINS CAR RL VIN ON CA ARL V SON N RL VIN CA ARL V SON C CARL INSON N CA VINS SON C RL VIN INSO RL A C VIN SON NC L V VINSO CARL L VIN N CA ARL V SON SO AR R IN O N RL VIN CA ARL V SON C CARL INSON N CA VINS SON C RL VIN INSO L R O L V A C VIN SON L V VINS CAR L VIN N CA ARL SON N NC AR R IN O N RL SO SO CA ARL V SON C CARL INSON N CA VINS SON C RL VIN INSO VIN VIN L O L L V N N A C VIN BROWN R V I S R R N L MC2(SW/AW) NICHOLAS C O A L V N A A NC RL VINS N CAR RL VI ON C CARL NSON N CAR VINSO ONC SO S CA ARL FENAROLI I S A O L MC2(SW/AW) SCOTT VIN C VINSO SON C L VIN INSON ARL V VINS CAR RL VIN SON L R R C A A V IN A RL ON RL L VIN KING MC2(SW) NC N C CARL NSON N CA VINS SON C ARL V SON CA AALEX R SO I SO N O C L N VIN MC2(SW/AW) JOHNCP. WAGNER VIN INSON ARL V VINS CAR RL VIN SON RL VI INSO L L R R LV CA RL V ON CA N C ARL SON CA VIN CA VAZQUEZ R MC3 (SW) JAMES ON ON CA VINSO SON C L VIN INSON CARL INSON N CA VINS SON INS INS R LV O L VIN N L VIN V V S A R LV R O L L N C A AR CA ARL SON CAR VINS CAR RL VI N C ARL SON CAR C N C VIN SON ARL SON CA INSO N C VIN SON SO C V IN SO RL IN IN N RL ON VIN The Carl Vinson Voice is an CA ARL V NSON ARL V VINS CARL RL VIN N CA ARL V INSO RL A I O C C V C V N N C ARL SON CA INS ON RL ON RL internal document produced SO CA VINSO SON C L VIN INSON ARL V VINS N CA VINS SON VIN RL RL L VIN N CAR RL V ON C CARL VINSO CARL L VIN N A by and for the crew of the A C AR S A R N O NC SO C VINSO SON C L VIN INSON CARL INSON N CA VINS SON SO USS Carl Vinson and their VIN V VIN V IN SO AR RL IN RL ON RL A CA ARL V SON C CARL VINS CARL RL VIN N CA ARL V SON CARL C families. Its content does not C VIN SON ARL SON CA INSO N C VIN SON ON C V INS IN SO RL IN IN N RL ON LV necessarily reflect the official CA ARL V NSON ARL V VINS CARL RL VIN N CA ARL V INSO R A C C VI N C ARL SON CA INSO ON C RL V ON ON RL view of the U.S. government CA VINSO SON C L VIN INSON ARL V VINS N CA VINS SON INS R LV LV C ARL NSO ARL VIN L VIN A R R N C A or the Departments of CA ARL SON CAR INSO N C RL VI N C ARL SON NC O N C VIN N O CA C VIN SON SO LV SO NS INS Defense or Navy and VIN RL L VIN N CAR RL VI SON RL V VINSO CARL L VIN N L A R C AR A A A R IN O does not imply any C VINSO SON C ARL V SON C CARL INSON N CA VINS SONC C V IN SO RL IN IN N RL ON CA ARL V NSON ARL V VINS CARL RL VIN N CA ARL V INSO endorsement therein. C VI N C ARL SON CA INSO ON C RL V ON RL CA VINSO SON C L VIN INSON ARL V VINS N CA VINS SON C L V IN SO AR RL RL IN R CA ARL V SON C CARL INSON N CA RL VIN N CA ARL V SON C VIN SON V INSO CA INSO N C VIN SON L R O V V IN S A RL IN RL ON CA ARL V SON C CARL VINS CARL RL VIN N CA ARL V SON C N C IN SO A ON IN RL ON
STAFF WRITERS
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Captain’s Corner
Team Vinson, Last time I wrote, the skies were brown and hazy. Today, it is a bright sunny day with calm seas and the dhow fishing fleets are out in force. We had a great visit in Dubai, once again performing as perfect ambassadors and showing our host nation what makes our Navy so special--our Sailors. You enjoyed many Morale, Welfare and Recreation activities thanks to the efforts of our MWR Team. I personally went on the “Sunset Safari” speeding over sand dunes in a Land Rover. There must have been 400 other vehicles bouncing around the vast and hilly terrain. Our driver had been doing this for 13 years and said the sands shifted nightly depending on the winds. We probably saw 30 bumpers buried in the sand from vehicles that sped too quickly down the dunes. Following our race around the dunes, we pulled up to a group of shelters in the desert where we were treated to traditional food, camel rides, and entertainment. All in all, a great event subsidized by our MWR and worth every penny. After a flawless underway where I let XO take my seat and guide the bridge team to sea (the only way to really learn), the team jumped right back into business. We had an all hands call to kick off April’s Sexual Assault
Awareness and Prevention month. I took the opportunity to thank you for your phenomenal performance to date. The numbers are quite impressive: - More than 61,000 nautical miles steamed-nearly 2.5 times around the globe at the equator. Many of those miles were travelled in the heavily congested waters of the Arabian Gulf launching and recovering aircraft. - More than 16 million gallons of fuel pumped onto the ship and around the tanks for holding, and up into our thirsty aircraft. 16 million gallons without a drop spilled! - More than 12,000 pallets slung below span-wires between two ships steaming 180 feet from one another, and transferred below our helicopters during vertical replenishment. Too many forklifts to count scurrying around the congested decks; Sailors breaking down the pallets and striking all the material to freezers and storerooms--it has happened flawlessly week after week. - Most importantly, more than 800 bombs delivered to ISIL targets and countless bombs uploaded and downloaded; brought back aboard when a target could not be absolutely, positively verified. The Ordies have earned their pay this deployment. The numbers are impressive, but they alone don’t tell the true story. The most impressive aspect of this deployment is the teamwork and esprit de corps between the ship and air wing team. For more than 7 1/2 months we’ve been steaming and operating together; living in close
quarters; relying on one another. The teamwork, precision, day in and day out attention to detail… this is what is truly impressive. During the all hands call, I took the opportunity to talk about teamwork; shipmates taking care of shipmates; and bystander intervention. I honestly believe the Navy is far ahead of society despite the scrutiny of our Congress. Over the past three years, the Navy has dramatically changed awareness of sexual assault and prevention. Whether we like it or not, sexual assaults and inappropriate harassment occur throughout society. The major development is that now in the military we talk much more openly about it; we measure it; our Sailors are on the look out for it; and clear lines have been established regarding what is acceptable or consensual, and what is assault. We have made great strides and I am very proud of our team here on VINSON. There is still work to do, and the purpose of this month is to ensure we keep the awareness high. We’re about to enter a time of many transitions. We’re about to shift gears and begin our final phase of deployment. There will be many anxious moments here on the ship and at home. There will be many reasons to celebrate. There have been many life changing events--both new life brought into this world and elderly life that has unfortunately passed. Many relationships get stronger with separation. Some become more strained. Keeping communication flowing as we get closer to home will be critical for healthy reunions. Thanks for keeping things in order and the daily churn grinding. I look forward to meeting many of your friends and families during Tiger Cruise--we currently have a little over 1,200 Tigers signed up. All the best! CAPT “T”
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Team Vinson
Bids Farewell to
Dubai
Story by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Travis Alston
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he crew of USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) departed the port of Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates, for the third and final time of their current deployment, Apr. 6, after a four-day port visit. During their visit to Dubai, Team Vinson enjoyed floating dinners, paintballing, snorkeling and scuba diving, sand boarding and golf tours organized by the morale, welfare and recreation (MWR) division on board the ship. Members were also given the opportunity to participate in various community relations projects through the city. “Although I enjoyed each visit to Dubai, our visit during Christmas was an amazing opportunity,” said Rebekah McKoy, Carl Vinson fun boss. “The events that the United Services Organization provided for the crew were great. I really enjoyed the camel rides in the sandbox. You never knew who or what was going to pop up while in the sandbox.” Team Vinson’s final stop in Dubai signifies the crew is one step closer to being home. Even though the Carl Vinson made multiple stops in Dubai, some crew members said they would love the chance to revisit the city. “Dubai was my favorite port visit because of the Dubai Mall,” said Yeoman 1st Class Jonathan Edwards. “I wish I could have gone on one of the safari tours. This was my fifth time there and I would go back in a heartbeat if I had the chance.” As Team Vinson pulled out of Jebel Ali for the final time, their focus again shifted to combat operations at sea. The goal for the entire crew is finishing the remaining portion of the deployment strong, with as much success and dedication as they have thus far. “I’m extremely proud of this crew,” said Capt. Karl Thomas, Carl Vinson commanding officer. “Although we are a majority of the way complete with this deployment, we still have a long way to go. We have to stay focused on the mission at hand.”
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Photo by MC2 John P. Wagner Jr.
Photo by MC3 Curtis D. Spencer
Photo by ABHAN Derrick Body
Photo by MC2 Jacob Sisco
Photo by AO1 Hamilton Smith
Photo by ABHAN Derrick Body
Photo by MRC Jason Broenneke
Photo by IT2 Matthew Crabtree
Photo courtesy of MC3 James P. Bleyle
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The Benefits of
Breaking Bad
Story and photos by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Curtis D. Spencer
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t. Cmdr. William Solomon, USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) chaplain is giving Sailors the unique opportunity to discuss the moral and ethical implications of the popular television show “Breaking Bad” in the ship’s theater, Thursdays at 7 p.m. The Breaking Bad Study gives fans of the series and Sailors who haven’t seen the show alike a chance to watch the show and participate in an in-depth discussion about the events within the series. “At the end of each show I just start by asking questions,” Solomon said. “We talk about how the little things make a big moral and ethical difference for the characters. Each discussion is drawn directly from the episode we watch.” Series creator Vince Gilligan described the transformation of main character, Walter White as going from a mild-mannered, nice guy to an evil, volatile crime boss. “People have responded really well to the studies,” Solomon said. “We have had Sailors from the ship and squadrons ranging in rank from E-1 to 0-4 attend the sessions. Their participation has made for some really good discussions.” The popular TV show was a cultural phenomenon from 2008 to 2013. Even watching one episode can draw a person into the complex world the characters inhabit, according to Cryptological Technician Technical 1st Class Grace Kirkland, who attends the meetings regularly. “I really appreciate the depth of the characters and our discussions,” Kirkland said. “We discuss societal ethics frequently in our meetings. The characters embody several norms we see everyday, no matter where you happen to be. One of our recurring discussions is why and how people develop these traits.” All hands are welcome to attend this multi-faceted experience. Sailors can simply appreciate the opportunity to unwind while watching a quality production with their shipmates. Attendees can also expand their mind with an engrossing dialogue that covers issues like ethics, morality and justice, Solomon explained. “I had never seen the show before coming to this study,” Kirkland said. “I really enjoy it. This whole activity is my little slice of peace every week and I am happy I get to share it with other people. I will definitely be here every week.”
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Sailors aboard USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) watch the popular television series Breaking Bad during the Breaking Bad Study in the theater on board the ship.
The group uses Breaking Bad as a conduit into discussions about human nature. The meetings are not aimed at determining right from wrong. They reach beyond platitudes and seek to understand the abstract issues facing society, Solomon explained. The sessions are led by Solomon, but he lets the conversation develop organically and takes a bit of a hands-off approach for the debates. “We challenge those who attend to think critically about their decisions and the decisions their peers make, which can be a challenge,” Solomon said. “They really start to think about what their responsibilities to one another are. I am really impressed that Sailors have made time to attend these studies. This is fabulous entertainment with thought-provoking discussion mixed in.”
Lt. Cmdr. William Solomon discusses the popular television series Breaking bad during the Breaking Bad Study in the theater on board the ship.
The
ATO Shack
Story by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Shantece Gonzales
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t’s the middle of the afternoon and the Carl Vinson air transfer office, also known as the ATO shack, is full of excitement. Personnel are checking their bags, the staff is hard at work keeping everything organized and Sailors know that in a few short hours they will be touching land again. In the midst of all the parcels, sea bags and Sailors sits the ATO officer, Lt. Daniel Cabrales. Cabrales is the assistant air operations officer as well as the air transfer officer. His duty as the ATO, a division within the operations department, calls for precise time and logistics management. “Anything that comes off an aircraft or needs to be loaded onto an aircraft on the carrier goes through us,” said Cabrales. “Passengers, their luggage, people getting into helicopters, we coordinate all of that.” With only two other dedicated personnel working for the ATO shack including Logistics Specialist 1st Class Dwayne Edwards and Logistics Specialist 3rd Class Raymond Sanders, keeping everything in order can sometimes be a daunting task. “I’m in charge of scheduling and planning all cargo movements of the carrier on-board delivery (COD) flights,” said Cabrales. “We are in charge of the personnel and ATO requests, and we manage the list of personnel and cargo waiting at the beach.” With such a long list of responsibilities, it takes
Sailors from the USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) air transfer office (ATO) unload cargo from a C-2 Greyhound atop the flight deck of the ship.
cooperation from several other departments to make sure the ATO shack runs smoothly. “We work with air operations and Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) 30 to determine what resources we have and how we are going to use them,” said Cabrales. “I work with the Handler on the flight deck as well as the supply department to make sure we have everything we need to unload the cargo planes.” With anywhere from 2,000 to 6,000 pounds of cargo being hauled onto the ship, three personnel can’t possibly unload it all by themselves. The coordination between the ATO, flight deck and supply personnel during this time crunch is vital. “Supply sends us about 15 people and the Handler gives us the go ahead to get the cargo off the plane and then down the elevators in five minutes,” said Cabrales. With the amount of work and very little time to complete it all, the most help comes from the passengers and personnel themselves. “People ask us a lot of questions,” said Cabrales. “Between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m., we have all the information you need posted outside the door. There are also placards that let people know that there are no carry-on items.” With only two CODs that hold 22 personnel and their luggage, it’s often difficult to schedule the flights with out having all of the needed information. “It would be helpful if people could make sure they get their ATO requests in as early as possible,” said Cabrales. “That way we can schedule the number of flights we are going to need and help VRC-30 be able to plan out their maintenance.” Cabrales and his crew have remained efficient and well prepared since the beginning of the Carl Vinson’s deployment in spite of the high levels of intensity and responsibility associated with the job. “Our goal is to make this all as seamless as possible,” said Cabrales. “We are here to make sure the CODs are ready to go with minimal down time. We don’t want to be the reason the Air Boss and the flight deck crew are waiting around.” As the passengers settle down and await their flight, Cabrales and his crew are not yet done working. They complete check-ins and start loading bags. As soon as those passengers are through, the process starts again.
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Making
WAVES:
Story and Photos By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Shantece Gonzalez
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he boatswain’s mate (BM) rating dates back to the American Revolutionary War and is one of the oldest U.S. Navy rates still in existence. The term ‘boatswain’ is derived from old English combining the words boat and young man (swain). As USS Carl Vinson Ship Bos’n, Ensign Adriane Christian is fulfilling a role that has long been a male-dominated rate. “Traditionally boatswain mates are males, and I think since women are beginning to have a chance to be in this position you will start seeing more and more fulfill the role,” said Christian. BMs are responsible for the supervision of underway replenishments and are integral to the ship’s navigation as the helmsman and lee helmsman. They also serve as the rigid-hull inflatable boat coxswains. Many of these positions require a lot of heavy lifting that isn’t usually associated with women. “As a woman in the Navy, it’s been difficult,” said Christian. “Sometimes you can’t lift as much as the males or maybe you’re not as strong, but you can use your mind and bring your contribution to the team.” Christian may be one of the few women holding such a position, but she feels that soon enough that will change. “Women have come far in recent years,” said Christian. “Throughout the Navy, there are only two female deck limited duty officers filling the role as Ship’s Bos’n as well
Ensign Adriane Christian, right, USS Carl Vinson Bos’n, supervises Sailors performing maintenance on the anchor chain in the forecastle of the ship. (Photo by MC3 Shantece Gonzales)
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Bos’n Carl Vinson
Ensign Adriane Christian, right, USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) Bos’n, observes Sailors during a replenishment at sea (RAS) in the hangar bay of the ship. (Photo by MC3 Shantece Gonzales)
as two chief warrant officers, with our highest ranking female a commander.” Christian sometimes encounters difficulties due to her current position. “Having an authoritative position sometimes creates friction,” said Christian. “The Navy has people from all walks of life. Some people aren’t comfortable with having a woman tell them what to do. When I encounter that, I just sit down with the individual and explain to them what my role on the team is and that we have to work together to get the job done.” For Christian, teamwork is the key to getting the mission accomplished. Her ability to be the difference helps her understand the overall needs of the job. “Having women in leadership roles helps balance and create a successful workplace, which includes equality and diversity,” said Christian. As a previously enlisted Sailor, Christian looked up to both males and females for guidance. They allowed her to fully understand her potential and create the path that led her to her current position, she said. Christian doesn’t hold any grudges about the hardships she encountered as a female in a male-dominated arena. “I think people just weren’t used to seeing women being able to fulfill all of these positions. They didn’t think we were capable of doing the job,” said Christian. “I would tell women who plan on walking the same path to keep going, you got this and never stop.”
Team Vinson Kicks Off Sexual Assault Prevention and Awareness Month Story by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman D’Andre Roden
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apt. Karl Thomas, USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) commanding officer, kicked off Sexual Assault Prevention and Awareness month with an all hands call in the Vinson hangar bay, Apr. 9. The month of April is designated as Sexual Assault Prevention and Awareness month in the Navy and commands around the globe hold training, all hands calls and conduct special events to heighten the awareness and make a difference in fighting this crime. This year’s theme is ‘Eliminating Sexual Assault’ with the goal being to lower the number of assaults that take place and raise the number of reports of sexual assault incidents. Crimes such as rape, forced sexual contact, abusive sexual contact, forced oral or anal sex, or any attempts to commit these offenses are considered sexual assault. “In the last few years, the Navy has put a lot of effort into raising [sexual assault and prevention] awareness,” said Thomas. “Sailors learn about it in boot camp, and when they go through indoctrination on Carl Vinson they are also educated on sexual assault.” Thomas also stated that just as Sailors in the past four decades have worked toward resolving issues such as racism, intolerance of other’s sexual orientation, and improving fitness and smoking cessation, the Navy has and will continue to work hard at eliminating sexual assault. “These social changes in the Navy often precede society,” Thomas said. “I think the Navy, and the military in general, is out in front of society on these difficult issues.” During the event, Thomas and Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Fuels) 3rd Class Jalisa Patrick, the Carl Vinson
Capt. Karl Thomas, USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) commanding officer, signs a pledge banner for Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month with Sailors after an all hands call in the hangar bay of the ship. (Photo by MC2 John P. Wagner Jr.)
Coalition of Sailors Against Destructive Decisions (CSADD) organization president, spoke of the importance of bystander intervention and the need to eliminate sexual assault in the Navy. Patrick also commented that Sailors have to look out for one another and support their shipmates going through any type of sexual assault crime. “In most sexual assault crimes, the perpetrator is someone the victim knows,” said Patrick. “We are the ones committing these crimes against each other. This has to stop. We have to do better at taking care of one another. No matter what, if you see something wrong, have the courage to step in and stop it.” The Navy Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) program, established in 1994, focuses on raising awareness and putting a stop to sexual crimes inside and outside the workplace. “In my experience, creating a culture of transparency, open communication, and clear expectations helps build trust,” Thomas said. “Sailors that trust their command and their leadership will be more likely to report difficult issues like sexual assault. Just like preventing DUIs and suicide, the key is, Sailors looking out for each other and that is what’s going to help eliminate these crimes.”
Sailors aboard aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) take part in an all-hands call in the hangar bay of the ship. (Photo by MC2 Nick Brown)
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Photo by MC2 Scott Fenaroli
Photo by MC2 John P. Wagner
Photo by MC2 Scott Fenaroli
Photo by MC2 Nicholas Brown
Photo by MC3 Bryan Jackson
LEADERSHIP ON T
Photo by MC2 Scott Fenaroli Photo by MC2 Nicholas Brown
Photo by MC2 Scott Fenaroli
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Photo by MC2 Alex King
Photo by MC2 Scott Fenaroli
Photo by MC2 John P. Wagner
Photo by MC2 John P. Wagner
Photo by MC2 Scott Fenaroli
Photo by MC2 John P. Wagner
Photo by MC2 John P. Wagner
THE DECKPLATES
Photo by MC2 Scott Fenaroli
Photo by MC2 Alex King
Photo by MC2 John P. Wagner
Photo by MC3 Shantece Gonzalez
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A Ruck and a
Hard Place:
Carl Vinson Rugby Team VS. Dubai Sharks Story by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Curtis D. Spencer
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he USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) rugby team, the Golden Eagles, was in action April 3, during Team Vinson’s final visit to Dubai. A team comprised of Sailors from various departments and divisions united to take on the Dubai Sharks Rugby Team. “Everyone on the team got to play and we all had a great time,” said Aviation Ordnanceman Airman Alexander Morris, Golden Eagles team captain. “It was such a fun game. The most rewarding thing was just getting out there and playing.” A lot of time went into planning this event for Morris and his team. The game was the end result of months of communication between the two organizations. “I think planning everything was the most difficult part,” Morris said. “In our past visits to Dubai we had some miscommunications that prevented the game from happening. It was great to see it finally happen this time.” Morris explained that although it was difficult to communicate exclusively through e-mail and finding enough Sailors to fill out the roster was challenging, it was all worth it once they took the field. “This experience ranks pretty high up there,” Morris said. “We really bonded as a team. This game formed friendships that will last forever. Regardless of rate, rank, age or race we
USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) rugby team members charge a player from the Dubai Sharks Rugby Football Club during a regularly scheduled port visit to Dubai. (Photo by MC2 Scott Fenaroli)
all came together to form one really awesome rugby team.” Both teams had fun, but in the end, Golden Eagles fell to the Sharks 32 to 7. Morris cited the team’s inability to properly practice while at sea and a lack of experienced players as their ultimate demise. “In situations like this, the final score doesn’t matter,” Morris said. “I am proud that so many people took an interest in rugby. We have plans to keep the momentum going and to continue to practice so we can play once we get back to San Diego.” Morris and the Golden Eagles will be in action again in Perth, Australia where they will take on a team of Australian Navy sailors. Sailors interested in either joining the Carl Vinson rugby team or participating in any way can contact AOAN Alexander Morris.
USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) and Dubai Sharks rugby team members pose for a group photo during a regularly scheduled port visit to Dubai. (Photo by MC3 Curtis D. Spencer)
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USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) rugby team members charge a player from the Dubai Sharks Rugby Football Club during a regularly scheduled port visit to Dubai. (Photo by MC2 Scott Fenaroli)
USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) rugby team members tackle a player from the Dubai Sharks Rugby Football Club during a regularly scheduled port visit to Dubai. (Photo by MC2 Scott Fenaroli)
USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) rugby team members participate in a line out during a game against the Dubai Sharks Rugby Football Club during a regularly scheduled port visit to Dubai. (Photo by MC2 Scott Fenaroli)
A USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) rugby team member runs the ball during a game against the Dubai Sharks Rugby Football Club during a regularly scheduled port visit to Dubai. (Photo by MC2 Scott Fenaroli)
Chairman of the Dubai Sharks Mike Quinn, left, and USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) rugby team captain Aviation Ordnanceman Airman Alexander Morris pose for a photo after the game. (Photo by MC2 Scott Fenaroli)
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Navy Chief,
Navy Pride
Story by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Patrick Menah
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sk Chief”, a shorter version of the traditional “Ask the Chief”, is a common phrase for young Sailors. So common is the phrase that some of those same Sailors are unaware the Navy has not always had the E-7 through E-9 paygrades – or that the phrase was any different then. On April 1, 1893, the chief petty officer rank was created. The Navy had officers, and it had enlisted service members, but there was no clear link to connect them. In General Order 409, the Navy called upon seasoned, senior enlisted Sailors to lead their fellow enlisted personnel and to communicate the needs of enlisted Sailors to the wardroom. When the chief petty officer had been firmly established within the ranks of the Navy, an even more distinct link between officers and the deck plates was
desired. The Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) position was created in 1967. The MCPON became the enlisted spokesperson to the Chief of Naval Operations to further bridge the communication gap between enlisted force and commissioned leadership. “The chief petty officer’s most important and rewarding contribution to the Navy is taking care of Sailors,” said Carl Vinson Command Master Chief Marty Barnholtz. “And I believe that means taking the steps to make sure they have the tools to do their job, the materials necessary to learn their rate, and giving them the time and training to allow them to advance in the Navy. As chief petty officers, we are responsible for making sure both missions and goals are met.” Each April 1, Sailors have the opportunity to not only reflect upon the inception of the chief, but on the chief petty officer’s heritage of leadership. From their genesis, chiefs were tasked to provide guidance to the
Chief petty officers aboard USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) pose for a chief petty officer 122nd birthday photo on the flight deck. (Photo by MC2 Scott Fenaroli)
Chief petty officers aboard USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) pose for a chief petty officer 122nd birthday photo on the flight deck. (Photo by MC2 Scott Fenaroli)
USS Carl Vinson Command Master Chief Marty Barnholtz delivers a speech in the Chiefs Mess for the 122nd chief petty officer birthday. (Photo by MC2 John P. Wagner Jr.)
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Chief petty officers aboard USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) pose for a chief petty officer 122nd birthday photo on the flight deck. (Photo by MC2 Scott Fenaroli)
enlisted force and advice to Navy leadership in order to aid in the creation of combat-ready Sailors. “The U.S. Navy chief petty officer is a rank like no other in any other service of any other country around the world,” said Chief Mass Communication Specialist Russ Tafuri, Carl Vinson media department leading chief petty officer. “We are a part of the largest fraternity in the world and there is something to be said for that. This birthday represents 122 years of history, tradition, legacy, and deckplate leadership that has been proven and that will carry the Navy into the next millennium.” Chiefs are tasked to develop junior Sailors according to Navy standards, regulations and traditions. Additionally, they must endeavor to remain responsive, consistent and in-tune with leadership and subordinates alike. “Being a chief is humbling,” said Barnholtz. “At the end of the day, it’s our job to get out there and interact with every single Sailor on the ship and to express concern for their issues and problems. I am their advocate to the commanding officer and we make sure they have what they need with regard to welfare, morale, and their overall quality of life.” The chief petty officer not only tempers strong Sailors; he or she is required to be a strong Sailor. Chiefs are experts in their field who use experience and technical knowledge to solidify themselves as vital links in the Navy chain. Chiefs are expected to follow an uncompromising code of integrity, take responsibility for their actions,
and keep their word in order to set a positive tone for the command and unify the chiefs’ mess. Carl Vinson currently hosts 24 Master Chiefs, 40 Senior Chiefs and 122 Chiefs. Each embarked command brings its own chief petty officers into the mess.
A picture of the cake prepared for the Chiefs Mess of USS Carl Vinson for the 122nd birthday of the rank of chief petty officer. (Photo by MC2 John P. Wagner Jr.)
Chief Mass Communication Specialist Russ Tafuri delivers a speech in the Carl Vinson Chiefs Mess during the chief petty officer 122nd birthday cake cutting. (Photo by MC2 John P. Wagner Jr.)
Command Master Chief petty officers aboard USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) pose for a chief petty officer 122nd birthday photo on the flight deck. (Photo by MC2 Schott Fenaroli) Chief petty officers aboard USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) cut their birthday cake in the Chiefs Mess. (Photo by MC2 John P. Wagner Jr.)
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MM3 Nelson Fauls Date: Mar. 31 Dept: Reactor
AN Louie Terrazas Date: Apr. 1 Dept: Security
MM3 Fauls single-handedly developed and executed a plan to replace 32 critical hoses on the propulsion plant ventilation system on board the ship, requiring him to coordinate with multiple off-ship repair activities to hydrostatically test and certify each hose. His careful, systematic installation plan enabled the ship to maintain all air systems in operation while each hose was replaced.
AN Terrazas provides maritime security by standing the port, starboard and aft long range acoustic device/ laser dazzler mounts to protect Carl Vinson while in the 5th Fleet Area of Operations. He volunteered and participated in at least one community relation project at every port visit during the current deployment. He qualified as an Enlisted Aviation Warfare Specialist, patrolman, dispatcher, security reaction force team leader and clearing barrel supervisor.
DECKPLATE DIALOGUES What was your favorite 5th Fleet port and why?
AOAN Vian Irving
“Dubai because it is an amazing city with a nice culture.”
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ABHAN Daniel Durant
“Dubai because it was very interesting and cleaner than the others.”
SN Jamal Harris
“Bahrain because it had a good night life.”
AOAN Zuleyca Oli
“Abu Dhabi because I got to ride the world’s fastest roller coaster.”
ITSN Leonard Talton
“Abu Dhabi because the city was beautiful and I embraced the culture.”
PS3 James Sturdivant Date: Apr. 8 Dept: Admin
AOAN Justin Smith Date: Apr. 9 Dept: Weapons
AEAN Jose Felixcruz Date: Apr. 10 Dept: Air
ABHAN Alysha Miller Date: Apr. 11 Dept: Air
PS3 Sturdivant contributed to the processing of over 240 transfer packages, passenger reservation requests, 17 extension contracts, and 80 record of emergency data and SGLI updates during Carl Vinson’s deployment. He was hand selected to be admin department’s safety petty officer to ensure that all personnel in the department are thoroughly familiar with all safety policies. He motivates his peers in both on and off-duty education and personnel qualification standards.
AOAN Smith has contributed to the error-free completion of more than 400 maintenance actions on Carl Vinson’s 10 weapons elevators. While conducting routine maintenance, Smith was vital in the identification and correction of four discrepancies on multiple systems, including a hydraulic leak on the lower stage three weapons elevator hatch dogging cylinder. His skill and attention to detail resulted in returning the elevator to full mission capable status, enabling weapons department to meet all ordnance requirements in support of Operation Inherent Resolve.
Airman Felixcruz troubleshot 11 night vision goggles for HSM-73, VFA-22 and HSC15. His technical expertise and dedication to duty resulted in the expeditious repair of vital aircrew equipment worth $158,741 to ready-for-issue status and provided critical mission support for Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17’s night operations in support of Operation Inherent Resolve.
ABHAN Miller is the night check Assistant Tractor King for V-3 Division; she coordinates and supervises four junior Sailors in daily inspections of all ground support equipment (GSE) in the Hangar bay. She ensures proper functionality on the aircraft spotting dolly during hangar bay aircraft move operations. Additionally, her contributions were essential in the licensing and qualifications of 25 spotting dolly operators, 19 tow tractor drivers and 12 forklift operators, enabling Carl Vinson to meet all operational commitments.
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French, U.S. Navies Integrate Under Operation Inherent Resolve Story by USS Carl Vinson Strike Group Public Affairs
R
ear Adm. Eric Chaperon, French Task Force 473 commander, and Rear Adm. Chris Grady, Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group commander and Commander Task Force 50, met aboard French aircraft carrier Charles De Gaulle (R-91) to discuss interoperability and integration between the two navies, April 8. Charles De Gaulle and USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) have been conducting joint combat operations in the region since Feb. 22 as a part of Operation Inherent Resolve to degrade and ultimately defeat the fighting forces of terrorist organization Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, known as ISIS. “We operated with the USS Harry S. Truman last year for exercises,” said Chaperon. “This year it is for real combat operations. Compared to last year, we have achieved much progress in integration (with Carl Vinson), specifically in the areas of logistics, computer information systems, and intelligence.” The Charles De Gaulle and Carl Vinson strike groups fly over 100 combined total sorties a day, with Charles De Gaulle flying 15 combat sorties a day using her Super-Etendard and Rafale fighter jet aircraft. Carl Vinson flies up to 25 combat sorties a day. The balance of sorties are high-end training to sharpen pilot skills. “It has been a great honor to work with Rear Adm. Chaperon and his team over the past six weeks,” said Grady. “The highlight of our deployment thus far has been the integration with the Charles De Gaulle strike group, and we now have a model we can look to as we respond to other contingencies around the world.” Charles De Gaulle has taken on many aspects of operations during its time in the region. Its carrier strike group assumed the primary role of combat support during periods of maintenance, replenishment-at-sea, or port visit opportunities for Carl Vinson. The French carrier will assume primary operational duty when the Carl Vinson and Theodore Roosevelt Strike Groups conduct turnover in the coming days, Chaperon said. “The interoperability between our two navies is meaningful for the future in burden sharing and common contribution to high-intensity operations,”
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An F/A-18E Super Hornet assigned to the Sunliners of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 81 launches from USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70). (Photo by MCSN D’Andre L. Roden)
Chaperon stated. “Our interoperability is about equipment, know-how and procedures. But it is also about common knowledge, trust, and friendship.” Grady also pointed out the many benefits of dualcarrier operations between the two navies. “While we have very been successful in the tactical realm, the merging of the two strike groups, and the synergies that two maritime powers bring to Operation Inherent Resolve, also has immense operational and strategic benefits,” he stated. “Maritime striking power off the deck of an aircraft carrier provides our government leadership with offshore options,” Grady continued. “About a third of the tactical sorties flown in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, half of the command and control sorties and nearly all of the electronic attack sorties come from the Navy. We bring quite a punch indeed. At the outset of Operation Inherent Resolve, power projection from the sea was the only option because no permissions from partner nations are required to act from 98,000 tons and 4.5 acres of sovereign U.S. territory.” The Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group is deployed in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations supporting Operation Inherent Resolve, strike operations in Iraq and Syria as directed, maritime security operations, and theater security cooperation efforts in the region.
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IN TIME THERE’S SOMETHING ABOUT MARY LIFE OF PI MORTAL INSTRUMENTS: CITY OF BONES NOW YOU SEE ME IN TIME THERE’S SOMETHING ABOUT MARY LIFE OF PI MORTAL INSTRUMENTS: CITY OF BONES NOW YOU SEE ME
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A HAUNTED HOUSE A HAUNTED HOUSE 2 THE FIVE YEAR ENGAGEMENT IDES OF MARCH LOVE ACTUALLY A HAUNTED HOUSE A HAUNTED HOUSE 2 THE FIVE YEAR ENGAGEMENT IDES OF MARCH LOVE ACTUALLY A HAUNTED HOUSE
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THIS MEANS WAR SIDE EFFECTS STAR TREK: INTO DARKNESS STAR TREK II: WRATH OF KHAN (1982) OUT OF AFRICA THIS MEANS WAR SIDE EFFECTS STAR TREK: INTO DARKNESS STAR TREK II: WRATH OF KHAN (1982)
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