The Voice Jan. 11, 2015 by USS Carl Vinson

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Table

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PUBLISHER

LCDR KYLE RAINES Public Affairs Officer

EXECUTIVE EDITORS

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CAPT KARL THOMAS Commanding Officer

LTJG TREVOR DAVIDS Assistant Public Affairs Officer

EDITORS-IN-CHIEF MCC(AW) RUSSELL TAFURI

Media Department Leading Chief Petty Officer

MEDIA DEPARTMENT

MCC(AW/SW/EXW) DAVID CRAWFORD Media Operations Leading Chief Petty Officer

ASSISTANT EDITORS MC1(SW/AW) TRAVIS ALSTON MC1(SW/AW) RYAN TABIOS

GRAPHICS/LAYOUT MC3 CODY HOWELL MC3(SW) JACOB KAUCHER

Contents 4

The Final Cut

Naval Aviation Tradition: Fighting F.O.D.

Saving Lives, One Roar at a Time

CPO 365: Gold Fouled Guidance

MWR

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ON INS SON LV AR RL VIN N C O N ON CA NS MC3 JAMES P. BLEYLE L VINS NSON ARL VI VINSO R L VI N C L A R ON N MC3(SW) CURTIS D. SPENCER R O CA NS NC SO N CA VINS SON RL VI INSO N ON I O L V N L V VINS CAR L VI N CA ARL SON INS AR LV R O AR N C CARL NSON N CA VINS SON C RL VIN INSON C O I S O L ON VIN INSON ARL V VINS CAR RL VIN ON CA ARL V SON INS N RL LV CA ARL V SON C CARL INSON N CA VINS SON C RL VIN INSO R A MC2(SW) NICHOLAS C VIN SONBROWN NC L V VINSO CARL L VIN N CA ARL V SON SO AR R O RL L VIN FENAROLI MC2(SW/AW) VIN N C CARL NSON N CA VINS SON C RL VIN INSON CA SCOTT L R O R I S A O C VIN ALEX CA ON RL V VINS CARL L VIN N CA ARL V SON MC2(SW) N INS CAKING ON N RL C SO N L IN SO AR CA ARL V INS VIN ON N CAR VINSO ON C L VIN NSON ARL V VINSO V MC2(SW/AW) JOHN WAGNER S L C VP. RL N S R L VI N C R I N L O A L N A A R I S O C R RL L VIN N CA RL V ON C CAR NSO N CA VINS ONC MC3(SW) SHANTECE ON S CA ARGONZALEZ I S A O L INS C VINSO SON C L VIN INSON ARL V VINS CAR RL VIN SON LV R R N L N C A L A V I N A R I O R NC CA ARL V SON C CARL INSON N CA VINS SON C ARL V SON SO C VIN SON L V INSO ARL VIN N C L VIN NSON VIN R LV O L L C L VIN I S A R R R R CA CA ARL SON C CAR INSON N CA RL VIN N CA ARL V SON ON The Carl Vinson Voice is an ON C VIN SON L V INSO CA INSO N C VIN SON INS INS R LV N L V NSO ARL VIN L VIN V A LV R O L C internal document produced AR CA ARL SON CAR VINS CAR RL VI N C ARL SON CAR C C VIN SON ARL SON CA INSO N C VIN SON ON by and for the crew of the C V INS IN SO RL IN IN N RL ON LV CA ARL V NSON ARL V VINS CARL RL VIN N CA ARL V INSO R A USS Carl Vinson and their C VI N C ARL SON CA INSO ON C RL V ON NC RL SO CA VINSO SON C L VIN INSON ARL V VINS N CA VINS SON families. Its content does not VIN R LV O L L L N C L VIN I S A R R R R CA CA ARL SON C CAR INSON N CA RL VIN N CA ARL V SON necessarily reflect the official ON ON C VIN SON L V INSO CA INSO N C VIN SON INS INS R LV N L V NSO ARL VIN L VIN V A LV view of the U.S. government R O L C AR CA ARL SON CAR VINS CAR RL VI N C ARL SON CAR C C VIN SON ARL SON CA INSO N C VIN SON ON or the Departments of C V INS IN SO RL IN IN N RL ON LV CA ARL V NSON ARL V VINS CARL RL VIN N CA ARL V INSO R Defense or Navy and A C VI N C ARL SON CA INSO ON C RL V ON NC RL SO does not imply any CA VINSO SON C L VIN INSON ARL V VINS N CA VINS SON VIN R O L L L N C L V I S N A R R R I R CA endorsement therein. CA ARL V SON C CARL INSON N CA RL VIN N CA ARL V SON ON C VIN SON L V INSO CA INSO N C VIN SON INS R LV N L V NSO ARL VIN L VIN V A R O L C CA ARL SON CAR VINS CAR RL VI N C ARL SON CAR C VIN SON ARL SON CA INSO N C VIN SON 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 I O C N L V C C S A V R N L O RL ON CA N C VIN SON AR SO NS

STAFF WRITERS

PHOTOGRAPHERS

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Captain’s Corner

Team VINSON, Congratulations! You made it to the half way point of deployment, and if your perspective of time is anything like mine you are probably a little surprised at how quickly this date arrived. I often get asked about the challenges of a 9 1/2 month deployment. My response is often that it helps to have a mission that you believe in. When you know you are truly making a difference, the days are more meaningful. When you are busy defending our nation’s interests, your sleep at night is a little more restful. So what have we accomplished this first half of deployment: 1) You’ve steamed over 33,000 nautical miles. Seems like a lot because it is! If you were to circumnavigate the globe at the equator you would travel 21,600 nautical miles. You’ve done that 1 1/2 times and it is only the half way point of deployment. More importantly, you’ve done it safely and with precision! As we left San Diego, Hawaii, Guam and as we entered the Bay of Bengal we navigated around and avoided hurricanes and tropical storms and still achieved the readiness to arrive on station and fly the first day in the Arabian Gulf. 2) You’ve completed 16 underway replenishments. Those replenishments have resulted in parts and supplies to keep Air Wing Seventeen’s aircraft flying to achieve 6,960 sorties to date. 1,160 of those sorties have been combat related over Iraq and Syria. We’ve brought on 10,680,728 gallons of JP-5 and haven’t spilled a drop. We’ve transferred that fuel across hoses strung between ships taking on 100,000 gallons every 14 minutes; pumped the fuel into our storage and service tanks; cleaned it and delivered it to the aircraft so that they could fly more than 17,500 hours. 3) You’ve racked up more than 5,500 traps and more than half have been at night. Everything has worked from

the radios to the Fresnel lens to the radars in order to safely bring the aircraft back aboard the ship. The catapults and arresting gear--two no fail systems--have worked as advertised and been available nearly every cycle. 4) You’ve built countless and the air wing has delivered more than 400 bombs. These bombs have been delivered with absolute precision to tilt the balance of power and change the dynamic on the battlefield. Instead of ISIS being able to mass, maneuver, resupply and control the battlefield, you have enabled the squadron’s aircraft in conjunction with our coalition partners to change and influence the way they fight. They now have to be careful where and when they congregate and how they transit around the country. They have to operate with one eye over their shoulder wondering where that next bomb might come from. 5) You’ve prepared and eaten over 2,000,000 meals on deployment. You’ve used more than 44,208 rolls of toilet paper (and stop using the brown paper towels!). I won’t tell you how many beers you drank in the Oasis, but fortunately most of you did it with a measured pace and enjoyed them responsibly. You should be proud of all you’ve accomplished! By the numbers it is quite a feat. But numbers don’t tell the whole story. The real feat is the camaraderie, teamwork, and attitude that you have exhibited. Numbers can give you a measure of what you accomplish, but how you accomplish the mission speaks to the strength of the team. When the chips have been down and equipment has broken, you’ve quickly researched, resourced and repaired the systems. When items have broken on other ships you’ve lent a hand, made a part, or eagerly provided expertise. When a shipmate has been down, you’ve encouraged them to seek help. Across the ship, air wing and strike group, the team is strong. VINSON strong! This strength and teamwork is what will carry us through the second half of deployment. There will be many more fly days and many more missions in support of the people of Iraq. Every day will provide new challenges and I have every confidence that this team will rise to these challenges. We will host distinguished guests at sea and pull into ports and hold receptions to show our coalition partners the awesome capability of this great ship and air wing team. We have many more miles to steam together and I can’t think of a better crew to sail it with. You are at the top of your game. There is no room in this business to be anywhere but at the top. All our success, all our proficiency, all our teamwork and all our esprit de corps will be forgotten if we cut corners, if we hurt someone, or if we lose sight of our core values. Keep fighting the good fight. Keep your head in the game all the way to the finish line when the mooring lines go over the bollards and cleats in San Diego. Congratulations on a highly successful first half of deployment. Keep it up! All the best! Captain “T”

The Final Cut

Story and photos by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Shantece Gonzalez

he atmosphere is calm. “Footloose” blares from a speaker nearby as medical personnel prepare for surgery. The ship rocks due to aircraft operating above, but the surgeon’s hand is steady. With cool confidence and ease, he makes his first cut. Lt. Cmdr. Obi Ugochukwu, general surgeon for Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 1 has a warm and welcoming demeanor. He has more than nine years of medical training and 12 years of military experience under his belt. This was evident during a recent procedure I witnessed. He is currently situated aboard USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70). Life can sometimes lead you down many different roads, but for Ugochukwu the path was clear. As a civilian surgeon, specializing in traumatic injuries, there are a lot of avenues to gain both professional and financial wealth. Choosing to become a military physician would seem like a difficult choice for many, but for Ugochukwu it was quite simple. “I knew before I went to college that I wanted to be a surgeon. Sometimes I think the profession chose me,” said Ugochukwu. “I love everything about the military and I want to take care of people who defend this country. Everyone is deserving of good medical care.” Ugochukwu added, although a carrier isn’t an ideal place to perform surgical operations, medical department’s capabilities mimic that of a civilian hospital and allows his surgical team to support nearly all surgical procedures. “I have a great team here, who ensures that everything flows smoothly; it’s a seamless process,” said Ugochukwu.

Lt. Cmdr. Obi Ugochukwu, left, and Senior Chief Hospital Corpsman Keith Griffin, right, perform surgery on a patient aboard Carl Vinson.

Lt. Cmdr. Obi Ugochukwu, right, Lt. Mary Clements, middle, and Senior Chief Hospital Corpsman Keith Griffin, left, prepare a patient for surgery aboard Carl Vinson.

“Being a surgeon, you always have to think five steps ahead. My team knows that I’m prepared for anything, and they’re prepared to back me up.” His surgical team consists of a certified registered anesthetist nurse, Lt. Mary Clements, a first assist, Hospital Corpsman Senior Chief Keith Griffin, and two surgical technicians, Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Zachary Frates and Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Benjamin Phillips. Together, they are able to perform a variety of urgent cases with the most common being hernia repairs and appendectomies. Ugochukwu added that with a crew of more than 5,000 Sailors, being the ship surgeon has its difficulties. “At a hospital, you can lean on colleagues for advice, but as the only general surgeon for the strike group, I can only depend on myself,” Ugochukwu said. “I find that a little challenging, but at the end of the day, I rely on my training which gets me through most of my cases.” According to Ugochukwu, he received 80 percent of his training from Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, formally known as National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland. There he conducted a multitude of procedures ranging from plastic surgery to cancer related procedures. The training prepare him for the fleet and taught him the importance of trusting his team and patients. “Regardless the situation, trust is a necessity between the surgeon and the patient,” said Ugochukwu. “Trust is the bond that holds together the fabric that is patient care. I know what’s best and my patients can feel at ease knowing that their life is in good hands.” “Sometimes you only have 10 or 15 minutes between life and death,” said Ugochukwu. “I like to say, if you make it to us with a heartbeat, we will save your life.”

Our Lips are Sealed:

The Importance of OPSEC Story by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class James P. Bleyle

hile Team Vinson operates in hostile waters answering the nation’s call, as history has proven, it is a must for every Sailor understand the importance of practicing good Operational Security (OPSEC). During the Vietnam War, it was believed there was a mole in the U.S. ranks. Pilots would attack targets without receiving kill confirmations. After a thorough internal investigation it was discovered, much to the surprise of U.S. forces, that it wasn’t a mole. Pilots flying the missions were checking in on the same frequencies using the same call signs before every attack run. The enemy simply listened to the broadcast to determine exactly when and where the U.S. forces would attack next, and move to safety before they arrived. Thus, OPSEC has been strongly enforced, across the U.S. military to fight a changing and growing threat. “OPSEC is the process by which we protect unclassified but sensitive information,” said Cryptologic Technician (Technical) 1st Class Michael Clements, Vinson’s intelligence department, OW division leading petty officer. “By following OPSEC guidelines, you can literally save lives; just by doing something as simple as being careful what you post to any social media website or being careful what you put in letters home. The enemy has ways to get a hold of this information, and can use it to harm your shipmates.” With a rise in popularity of social media websites such as Facebook and Twitter, enemies of the U.S. are adapting their intelligence gathering tactics to stay with the times, and OPSEC guidelines are reflecting that change. “Carl Vinson’s Facebook page has over 100,000 likes now,” Clements said. “If someone were to post the wrong information on the wall, such as the commanding officer’s location, or plans for when we were pulling into port, it isn’t a stretch to think that the enemy could see it. Out of that 100,000 likes, some of them are definitely going to be unfriendly, just waiting for a slip up.” Because of this threat, the Navy has implemented several ways to keep service members up to date on how to fight the enemy using OPSEC guidelines, such as NKO courses and the Navy Information Operations Command (NIOC) OPSEC course. “I ask that they don’t post anything to social media that they wouldn’t say directly to the enemy,” Clements said. “And most importantly, teach your families about OPSEC as well. We are the hard targets out here in theater, and so it’s not only our social media sites that are being monitored, but our families’ as well. It’s crucial they not post anything the enemy can use against us.”

One Sexual Assault is One to Many Story and photos by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Curtis D. Spencer

he Navy is adamant about protecting the well-being of more than 300,000 Sailors. Its concern for each Sailor’s safety and security encompasses hazards on professional and personal levels. Focused on raising awareness and putting a stop to sexual crimes inside and outside the workplace, the Navy developed its Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) program in 1994. “The program promotes responsive and effective command management when there is an allegation of sexual assault,” said Senior Chief Information Systems Technician Lashala Hall, Vinson’s SAPR liaison. “I communicate the needs and concerns of the victim to the commanding officer and the ship’s discipline officer and ensure the command is doing everything they can for the victim.” The SAPR program’s mission emphasizes the need to eradicate sexual assault or misconduct by providing education, prompt response and compassionate advocacy in order to promote and preserve professionalism, respect and trust in the Navy and military. “The overall program is a huge asset to the victim,” said Hall. “Because of this program, people feel more comfortable reporting sexual assault cases. The SAPR team helps facilitate healing and allows the victims to regain control of their lives.” The SAPR team consists of sexual assault response coordinators (SARC),

a data collections coordinator (DCC), a program point of contact (POC), a SAPR liaison, and multiple victim advocates (VA). A SARC’s role is to provide information to command personnel and VAs regarding changes in sexual assault policy and to coordinate command training on sexual assault awareness. A DCC collects data and files reports on command sexual assaults. The command SAPR POC implements and coordinates training and maintains current information regarding base and civilian victim services in the community. Serving as the command SAPR and qualified in every area of the SAPR program, Hall ensures Carl Vinson’s program complies with Department of Defense and Navy policy. She is also responsible for training the command SAPR team and coordinates the ship’s annual general military training. “As SAPR liaison, I act as the command coordinator for the victim,” Hall said. “I may provide monthly updates to the victim, and promote responsible, victimsensitive command management of sexual assault cases.” VAs report directly to the liaison and may be military or contracted personnel. They are responsible for providing support and care to the victim who has been sexually assaulted. “A VA’s role is important because advocates are a direct ally for the victim,” Hall said. “Their job is to provide support, information and services to the victims who have been through an ordeal.” In order to help the victim regain stability, VAs inform the victim of available options and resources for their needs. They serve as a victim’s central point of contact and maintain communication with them for as long as they require assistance. According to Hall, when a Sailor has been sexually assaulted they have two avenues for reporting the assault: restricted and unrestricted reporting. Restricted reporting allows them to receive medical care, counseling and have a sexual assault forensic exam (SAFE). A photo of Senior Chief Information Systems Technical Lashala Hall, Vinson’s They may speak with a SAPR liaison.

Sailors receive sexual assault prevention training aboard Carl Vinson.

SAPR VA, SARC or a chaplain and have a confidential conversation about the incident. “I am a former victim advocate myself, in that position I advise them of their rights and the programs available to them,” said Hall. On the other hand, unrestricted reporting immediately prompts involvement of military or civilian law enforcement, military or civilian health care personnel and the Sailor’s chain of command. “The most challenging part about spreading awareness is making sure everybody understands there are rarely open and shut cases,” Hall said. “Gathering information and performing an investigation can take time; sometimes victims feel like there is no progress in their case. We try to let the victim know the command is doing everything it can to support them and adjudicate the case. It is crucial for us to do all we can to ensure a victim makes it through while realizing they have supporting.” Hall insists that in order for the Navy and the military as a whole to eliminate sexual assault, Sailors must engage themselves in the training and look out for one another. “Our training covers more than advocacy,” Hall said. “We are trained on awareness and prevention of sexual assault through education. Education is really the most important aspect of the entire concept. Whether it be education before or after an incident.” Hall urges Sailors to seek help for any issue and remember that there are always people within reach who will be there for you as a Sailor and as a fellow human being. “There are people out there to help get you through any situation you’re in,” Hall said. “One of those programs is SAPR and we’re always here for you.”

N Fighting F.O.D. aval Aviation Tradition:

Story by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class James P. Bleyle

here is a clear and present danger to the safe operation of aircraft aboard USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), and it’s not coming from ISIS. Foreign object debris (FOD) is directly responsible for millions of dollars worth of damage to Navy aircraft engines each year, and can harm the ship’s fighting capability. Anything left out or dropped, from a loose bolt to splintered pieces of wood, can become a hazard and could ruin one of our sophisticated aircraft engines. Given that there are over 5,000 men and women moving amongst our aircraft 24 hours a day, things can get a little messy. That’s where FOD walk downs come in to save the day. Throughout the day, Sailors gather in the hangar bay and on the flight deck to conduct FOD walk downs. Heading these evolutions in the

hangar bay is Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) 1st Class Grant Jones, an air department V-3 division hangar deck supervisor. “FOD walk downs help us prevent delaying flight operations,” Jones said. “This is essential to keeping us mission ready. Without aircraft to deliver payloads, there is no mission.” FOD walk downs have been a Naval aviation tradition since the mass utilization of aircraft carriers, and are a source of pride among aviation rates. “In my rate, there is a special connection to FOD walk downs,” Jones said. “There is this extra sense of pride for us because we are at the front line, defending the ship’s aircraft against FOD, which helps us remain as efficient and effective as possible in doing our mission. We have a direct impact on that, and that’s an awesome feeling.”

And FOD is a constantly evolving threat, according to Jones. “We’ve found screws, bolts, tools and water bottles,” Jones said. “If you can name it, we’ve probably picked it up during a FOD walk down. That’s why it’s so important, because if even the smallest thing gets into the intake of an engine, it could cause a major failure. Simply doing a FOD walk down can prevent much larger, more expensive problems in the future.” FOD walk downs are open to all hands, and occur throughout the day. Sailors from all over the ship are encouraged to attend. “FOD walk downs are such a big part of the mission, and there’s an open invitation to all hands,” Jones said. “Everybody is out here to help support the mission, and with something as simple as attending FOD walk down, you can do so much more to help out.”

aving lives, One Roar at a Time By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Travis Alston

An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the Red Lions of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 15 transports ordnance to the flight deck of Carl Vinson, during an ammunition on/off load.

part of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17 and Carl Vinson team since 2010, Helicopter Sea Combat (HSC) 15, known as the Red Lions, play a major role in the efficiency and capability of the ship. Previously a helicopter anti-submarine squadron (HS), HSC-15 has deployed to the Pacific, Atlantic, Indian and Arctic Oceans and served in operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom. Comprised of more that 240 various-rated Sailors, HSC-15 is charged with search and rescue (SAR), combat search and rescue (CSAR), logistics and anti-surface warfare missions and operates MH-60S Block 3B Sea Hawk helicopters. “Our primary mission is search and rescue,” said Cmdr. Wesley Daugherty, HSC-15 commanding officer. “We ensure there is someone on station, ready to respond in case one of our pilots have a bad day and have to bail out from an aircraft. There are two pilots aboard the ship how can attest to the importance of this squadron.”

Aviation Structural Mechanic 2nd Class Caleb Debolt, assigned to the Red Lions of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 15, conducts maintenance on an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter in the Carl Vinson hangar bay.

Sailors assigned to the Red Lions of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 15 pull the chocks prior to the launch of an MH-60S Sea Hawk on the Carl Vinson flight deck.

During their day-to-day operations, a flight crew of four will depart the ship 30 minutes before fixed-wing aircraft commence flight operations and return once flight operations are complete, for the day. Broken down in 2-to3-hour increments, each cycle requires a pilot, a second pilot, a crew chief and a search and rescue swimmer. “We are the first ones to take off and the last ones to land, day in and day out,” said Daugherty. “We understand how critical our support to the ship is. No matter if it’s mission support during Operation Inherent Resolve or assisting during vertical replenishments, we take our role and responsibility very serious.” “Sailors love ice cream, Monsters and mail, all of which we provide logistically. Point blank, the ship can’t perform flight operations without plane guide. You need that safety net.” Similar to the success achieved during back-to-back Western Pacific (WESTPAC) deployments in 2011 and 2012, HSC-15 expects continued victory in the future missions. “It takes every Sailor in the squadron to get aircraft off the deck,” said Command Master Chief Charles Ziervogel, HSC-15 command master chief. “I constantly remind my team of that. I know whatever happens, this group of Sailors will be ready and prepared for it. From the most junior to the most senior Sailor, I have complete confidence in them. We have the right personnel in place to respond to and perform any mission asked of us.” Although the ship is officially half way complete with it’s current deployment, Ziervogel urges his team to stay focused and motivated until the last Sailor is back home safely with their loved ones. “This is a marathon and not a sprint,” said Ziervogel. “I advise anyone on the ship to take the time to ensure you are doing things correctly. At the same time, find something that will help you blow of a little steam. Working out, reading or studying; whatever else, positive that will reduce stress. This has been a long deployment and we still have a lot of work to do. Keep pushing, you will see the benefits of your hard work.”

Photo by IC3 Joseph Newman

Photo by MC2 John P. Wagner

Photo by IC3 Joseph Newman

Photo by MC2 John P. Wagner

Around

Photo by MC2 Scott Fenaroli

Photo by MC3 James Vazquez

Photo by MC3 Bryan Jackson

Photo by MC2 John P. Wagner

Photo by MC2 Scott Fenaroli

Photo by MC2 John P. Wagner

Team Vinson Photo by MC2 Alex King

Photo by MC2 John P. Wagner

Photo by MC3 Eric Coffer

Photo by MC2 Scott Fenaroli

CPO 365: Gold Fouled Guidance Story and photos by Mass Communication Specialist 3st Class Curtis D. Spencer

PO 365 provides first class petty officers (FCPO) the opportunity for consistent year-round professional development. Developing effective leaders does not happen in a few short weeks - it is a continuous and never-ending process. CPO 365 is the single sustained method we will use to train, build and develop Chief Petty Officers, said Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) Mike Stevens in his CPO 365 Guidance Memorandum. The unified CPO 365 training was officially implemented in the fleet in 2011. All commands lend their unique perspective on the training. Aboard USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), first class petty officers have been especially dedicated to all aspects of the CPO 365 lifestyle. The training program is divided into two phases. Phase one starts in September and concludes when the NAVADMIN announcing chief petty officer (CPO) selection results is released. FCPOs participate throughout the duration of this phase without consideration for whether they are eligible to be selected as chief petty officers or not. “This program is more than just training,” said Chief Mass Communication Specialist Russell Tafuri, Vinson’s CPO 365 command training lead. “It is about grooming our Sailors to accept a lifestyle and getting them to start thinking like a chief.”

Once phase one concludes, perspective chiefs experience consistent, continuous support from the chief’s mess with the passing of traditions and advanced training during phase two. “Two of the major parts of the program are the book training side and the physical readiness side,” Tafuri said. “We ensure there are training opportunities every week on specific topics based on MCPON’s guidance.” Tafuri explained that the training is coordinated with all departments and divisions on board to ensure that they are working within the same schedule. This allows greater saturation of the knowledge to be passed down in the training. “First class petty officers have every opportunity to get the training they need,” Tafuri said. “Every department is on the same unified training schedule. For example, if a Sailor in media misses the department’s CPO 365 training, he or she can look to any of the other departments and participate in the necessary training with them. We are all on the same page.” For those looking to increase their heart rate after or before a classroom session can join Chief Master-at-Arms Kenneth Watson, CPO 365 command physical training lead (PT) in the ship’s hangar bay every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. “I haven’t seen the level of participation from first class petty

First class petty officers assigned to Carl Vinson participate in a CPO 356 physical training session in the ship’s hangar deck.

officers at any other command,” said Watson. “I see a lot of motivation on both sides. This is an outstanding group of first class petty officers aboard the ship.” Watson said he has seen a wealth of camaraderie and exceptional team building take place during his tenure. Tafuri and Watson alike have found the reward in their work for the CPO 365 training program. Neither chief is shy about how important the program has become. “You can’t just say, ‘OK today I’m a first class, tomorrow I’ll be a chief. I’ll just figure it out,’ said Watson. “I feel strongly about the idea of being a chief petty officer and how important the journey is to becoming a chief petty officer with the MCPON’s guidance. We are successful because we all support and help each other.” Those associated with CPO 365 are never shunned or excluded simply because they will not be pinning on their anchors. Woven within the program is the understanding that the journey is just as important as the destination. “For some, the transition from first class to chief can be a multiple year process,” Tafuri said. “When you put on those Chief anchors, you are expected to know the answers. CPO 365 is a year-round training environment to better ready our 1st Class Petty Officers to become Chiefs and lead Sailors.”

Chief Yeoman Lovie Rush conducts training with first class petty officers assigned to Carl Vinson during a CPO 365 training session.

RTC and OTC Begins Female Haircut Pilot Program Story by Naval Service Training Command Public Affairs

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n an effort to standardize training and education across the military services, Recruit Training Command (RTC) and Officer Training Command (OTC) will run a pilot program, which will no longer require female accessions to cut their hair. The pilot program, which will run from January through March 2015, comes after receiving fleet feedback that junior Sailors and officers are not taught proper grooming standards with longer hair. This shift will align the Navy with every other armed forces service, which do not require female accessions to cut their hair. RTC and OTC required all females with long hair to cut it to the lower edge of the uniform collar. Now, female Sailors will have the

NAVY

ability to choose any hairstyle that meets uniform regulations. Females requesting a haircut may still receive one. “We are constantly considering fleet feedback and policy changes to improve training and quality of life during initial accession and indoctrination into the Navy,” said Rear Adm. Rich Brown, commander, Naval Service Training Command (NSTC). “We are here to serve the fleet and provide the initial training to our men and women so that they are mentally and physically prepared for the rigors of military service.” NSTC is considering a similar pilot program change regarding male recruits, following the pilot of the new female haircut program. Male accessions at Officer Candidate School and RTC are required to have their heads shaved to an eighth-inch upon arrival. They receive follow-up haircuts, which result in a regulation haircut by the time they reach graduation. Headquartered on Naval Station Great Lakes, Illinois, NSTC oversees 98 percent of all initial accessions training for the Navy, with the exception of the officers produced by the U. S. Naval Academy. This training includes

Keel-Hauled Hey, I‛m thinking of getting a mentor. Do you have one?

the Navy/Marine Corps Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) at more than 160 colleges and universities, Officer Training Command (OTC) at Naval Station Newport, Rhode Island; RTC, the Navy’s only boot camp, at Great Lakes; and Navy Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (NJROTC) and Navy National Defense Cadet Corps (NNDCC) citizenship development programs at more than 600 high schools worldwide. For more information about NSTC, visit http://www.netc.navy.mil/nstc/ or visit the NSTC Facebook pages at https://www. facebook.com/NavalServiceTraining/. For more news from Naval Service Training Command, visit www.navy. mil/local/greatlakes/.

Chief Logistics Specialist Natali Philip, left, a recruit division commander, uses a ruler to measure the hair of Seaman Recruit Briana Cochems to show proper hair grooming standards to new recruits at Recruit Training Command. (U.S. Navy Photo by Lt. Adam Demeter)

by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class James P. Bleyle

Yeah? Do you think I can meet him?

Is... is that a magic 8 ball? Yeah! Check it out! Will I ever get my pin?

...”outlook grim.”

Yeah, he‛s AWESOME! He‛s really helped me through some tough times.

Sure thing! He‛s just over here.

You know, that seems surprisingly effective.

Sailors assigned to various departments and repair lockers aboard USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) participated in the first portion of a damage control olympics aboard the ship, Jan. 9. The event tested Sailorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; overall knowledge in numerous aspects of damage control. The event will conclude, tomorrow. (Photos by USS Carl Vinson Media Department.)

Team Vinson in the Spotlight

LSSN Jun Hao Chen Date: Jan. 5 Dept: Supply

PSSN Juan Restrepo Date: Jan. 6 Dept: Administration

LSSN Chen flawlessly received, processed, and stowed over 675 critical aviation related repair parts and ensured 100 percent inventory validity was maintained. He expeditiously processed 800 issue transactions for fast-moving aircraft components, improving average issue response times by 25 percent and enabling a 97.8 percent sortie completion rate. Chen is a hard worker with limitless energy, potential, and a “can do” attitude, dedicated to mission success.

PSSN Restrepo is recognized as one of administration department’s outstanding technicians in the separations section. His efforts were key in processing more than 170 combined fleet reserve and end of active duty obligations, and 22 immediate administrative separations during Carl Vinson’s current deployment. He was hand-selected to be admin’s inport security force (ISF) representative. Additionally, he runs a top notch physical fitness regimen for his department.

DECKPLATE DI A LO G U E S

What have you accomplished so far while on deployment?

LSSN Jesse Camacho

YN3 Lucas Garbers

AT3 Lance Kolb

MMCS Sean Talbot

MMFN Kevin Lemaire

“This is my first deployment. I have learned how the Navy really works.”

“I have saved a lot of money and paid off my student loans.”

“My grandma has been sending me books and I have caught up on my reading.”

“We got approximately 80 of our Sailors qualified on more than 300 watch stations in the Reactor dept.”

“I paid off my 2005 Mini Cooper.”

AO3 (AW) Alisha Ashford Date: Jan. 7 Dept: Weapons

AMAN Richard D. Bussey Date: Jan. 8 Dept: AIMD

ABH3 Gregory R. Robinson Date: Jan. 9 Dept: Air V-3

ITSN Ashley N. Mumbower Date: Jan. 10 Dept: Combat Systems

AO3 Ashford quickly proved herself the go-to ordnanceman by qualifying as an ordnance team leader and by taking charge within the 84 series group magazines, a job normally assigned to a second class petty officer. She has six junior Sailors who work for her and she still manages to complete her NCPACE classes with excellent marks. Her efforts have contributed to the onload and off-load of 496 tons of ordnance and the assembling of 798 guided munitions in support of Operation Inherent Resolve.

Airman Bussey’s superb technical skills proved critical in the composite repair of a damaged F/A-18 leading edge flap panel resulting in an expeditious turnaround for Strike Fighter Squadron 94. Additionally, he provided training on metal fabrication and drilling techniques in the repair of two cracked MH-60S exhaust duct assemblies. His steadfast efforts directly contributed to the success of Carrier Air Wing 17’s mission in support of Operation Inherent Resolve.

ABH3 Robinson’s work ethic and performance on the hangar deck has surpassed those expected from a junior Sailor. He performs his duties as an aircraft director, directing all embarked aircraft for maintenance and operational spotting. His leadership skills proved invaluable while training 36 Sailors in five critical watch stations. Additionally, he supervised all maintainers on the hangar deck, ensuring their practices are safe and in accordance with hangar deck procedures.

Seaman Mumbower’s perseverance and dedication to duty were key in her assignment as the circuit controller and message center supervisor for Vinson’s main communication division. She assists in maintaining more than 120 voice and data communication circuits, and is a qualified maintenance person, COMSEC equipment operator, message processing center supervisor and tactical transmitterreceiver-transceiver operator. Her positive attitude and willingness to learn have quickly made her a valuable asset to the division.

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Team Vinson, First and foremost, happy hump day. This has been a long, but exciting deployment thus far. To celebrate the half-way point of the current deployment, various organizations have worked diligently to coordinate a number of activities for the crew’s enjoyment. Since we weren’t able to pull off a sports day, we decided to break out the basketball goals on the flight deck. The first class petty officer association is sponsoring a 3-on3 tournament at 1000 on the flight deck. Carl Vinson’s Coalition of Sailors Against Destructive Decisions organization is sponsoring a threepoint shoot out at 1200. Free play will be allowed from 1300 – 1500. Also, your fitboss, Jackie has organized an obstacle course and tractor pull contest. To conclude the night, we will be having one of my favorite events, a cinema at sea on the flight deck. I’m excited to have the opportunity to watch a movie under the stars on a clear night. The movie shown will be Maze Runner. This dystopian-action film is about an adolescent named Thomas who is deposited in a community of boys after his memory is erased, soon learning they’re all trapped in a maze that will require him to join forces with fellow “runners” for a shot at escape. Please come out and support these events. As always, this ship’s morale is my top priority. If you have any questions, concerns or suggestions please let me know. See you on the flight deck.

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NOW PLAYING CARL VINSON CINEMA REQUEST A MOVIE!

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

CHANNEL

You may call J-Dial 6789 with your request only during a previous movie’s credits. 0815 1015 1200 1400 1615 1900 2100 2245 0030 0245 0530

ABDUCTION CHRONICLE THE COLD LIGHT OF DAY JACK THE GIANT SLAYER K-19 ABDUCTION CHRONICLE THE COLD LIGHT OF DAY JACK THE GIANT SLAYER K-19 ABDUCTION

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21 JUMP STREET BROKEN CITY CONTRABAND INSIDE LLEWYN DAVIS KILLER ELITES 21 JUMP STREET BROKEN CITY CONTRABAND INSIDE LLEWYN DAVIS KILLER ELITES

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APOLLO 13 I, FRANKENSTEIN JACK RYAN: SHADOW RECRUIT LIVE FREE OR DIE HARD MAN ON A LEDGE APOLLO 13 I, FRANKENSTEIN JACK RYAN: SHADOW RECRUIT LIVE FREE OR DIE HARD MAN ON A LEDGE

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ABOUT TIME CHERNOYBL DIARIES IMMORTALS THE LAST STAND MACHETE KILLS ABOUT TIME CHERNOYBL DIARIES IMMORTALS THE LAST STAND MACHETE KILLS CHERNOYBL DIARIES

0815 1045 1300 1515 1745 1945 2215 0030 0245 0515

BEAUTIFUL CREATURES CHRONICLES OF RIDDICK THE IMPOSSIBLE THE MASK OF ZORRO THE RUNDOWN BEAUTIFUL CREATURES CHRONICLES OF RIDDICK THE IMPOSSIBLE THE MASK OF ZORRO THE RUNDOWN

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ABOUT LAST NIGHT CLOSED CIRCUIT LAWLESS EQUALIZER THE RAVEN ABOUT LAST NIGHT CLOSED CIRCUIT LAWLESS EQUALIZER THE RAVEN

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THE GOOD LIE CHASING MAVERICKS INSIDIOUS CHAPTER 2 MUD DRACULA UNTOLD THE GOOD LIE CHASING MAVERICKS INSIDIOUS CHAPTER 2 MUD DRACULA UNTOLD

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DALLAS BUYERS CLUB THE ONE I LOVE ELYSIUM OLYMPUS HAS FALLEN OUT OF THE FURNACE DALLAS BUYERS CLUB THE ONE I LOVE ELYSIUM OLYMPUS HAS FALLEN OUT OF THE FURNACE

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DIARY OF A WIMPY KID: DOG DAYS INDIANA JONE AND THE LAST CRUSADE JOURNEY 2: MYSTERIOUS ISLAND THE BEST OF ME MILLION DOLLAR ARM DIARY OF A WIMPY KID: DOG DAYS INDIANA JONE AND THE LAST CRUSADE JOURNEY 2: MYSTERIOUS ISLAND THE BEST OF ME MILLION DOLLAR ARM

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ACT OF VALOR CLOUD ATLAS THE DEVIL INSIDE PRISONERS THE JUDGE ACT OF VALOR CLOUD ATLAS THE DEVIL INSIDE PRISONERS

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THE ADVENTURES OF TIN TIN AKEELAH AND THE BEE EPIC FINDING NEMO THE BOXTROLLS THE ADVENTURES OF TIN TIN AKEELAH AND THE BEE EPIC FINDING NEMO THE BOXTROLLS THE ADVENTURES OF TIN TIN

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JOHN WICK CARRIE THIS IS WHERE I LEAVE YOU ANNABELLE THE GUEST JOHN WICK CARRIE THIS IS WHERE I LEAVE YOU ANNABELLE THE GUEST JOHN WICK

CHANNELS CH 2. CH 3. CH 4. CH 5. CH 6. CH 7. CH 8. CH 9. CH 10. CH 11. CH 12. CH 13. CH 14. CH 18. CH 20. CH 70.

ILARTS GBS TRAINING ALL REQUEST MOVIES G - PG MOVIES PG13 - R MOVIES AFN PRIME PACIFIC AFN NEWS AFN SPORTS MRI TRAINING TRAINING SLIDES SLIDES AFN XTRA AFN SPORTS RSEP TRAINING

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TV TV

CH 21. BBC WORLD CH 22. OSN SPORTS 4 CH 23. TRAVEL CHANNEL CH 24. DISCOVERY ID CH 25. CRIME&INVESTIGATION CH 26. HISTORY CHANNEL CH 27. E! ENTERTAINMENT CH 28. MBC4 HD CH 29. MBC ACTION CH 30. STARS MOVIES HD CH 31. MGM CH 32. TCM CH 33. MBC2 HD CH 34. OSN FIRST HD CH 35. OSN FIRST MORE CH 36. OSN FIRST +2 CH 37. STAR WORLD HD CH 38. MTV CH 39. VH-1 CH 40. TRACE CH 41. CARTOON NETWORK CH 42. BOOMERANG CH 43. OSN COMEDY +2 CH 44. BBC ENTERTAINMENT

“The 70”

newscast airs Sundays at 1800.

Catch it daily between movies on CH 6 and CH 7.