The Voice Jan. 18, 2015 by USS Carl Vinson

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Table

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PUBLISHER

EXECUTIVE EDITORS

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CAPT KARL THOMAS Commanding Officer

LCDR KYLE RAINES Public Affairs 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

STAFF WRITERS

Contents 4

The Legacy and Life of MLK Jr.

Navy AGs; More than Weathermen

Blue Angels, Among Golden Eagles

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Molding the Future Force

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L MC3(SW) JAMES P. BLEYLE AR RL VIN N O NC MC3(SW) CURTIS D. SPENCER VINSO SON CA L VINSINSON L VIN AR RL V R C A ON N MC3(SW) SHANTECE GONZALEZ RL ON CA NS NC

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O O N CA VI NS N INS SON RL VI INSO CARL L VINS N SO LV VIN AR RL VIN N CA ARL V SON CAR INSO ON C RL O N C VIN N A V N CA S S C O L O N S R L VI N IN S ON CA ON L V NSO ARL VIN VIN INS RL L VINS N CAR RL VI ON C CARL NSON N CAR VINSO ON LV S CANICHOLAS R I S A O L R MC2(SW) BROWN O N N A C V N I S R CA VINS SON L VI INSO ARL VIN NC CA ARL V SON C L SO V AR RL IN FENAROLI ON MC2(SW/AW) N RSCOTT VIN CA ARL V SON C CARL INSON N CA VINS SON C RL VIN INSO L R O A C VIN ALEX RL VIN MC2(SW) N LV CA ON KING L V NS N NC INS CAR RL VI ON CA CARL SON N CAR INSO ON RL SO SO N S CA ARL V IN S A MC2(SW/AW) JOHN P. WAGNER O LV VIN VIN L C VINSO SON C L VIN INSON ARL V VINS CAR RL VIN N RL R A A O C R N L C S A V A R IN O NC RL ON CA ARL V SON C CARL INSON N CA VINS SON C RL VIN INSO INS C VIN SON L V INSO ARL VIN LV CA ARL V NSON R R N L C A L V I N A R I O R NC CA ARL V SON C CARL INSON N CA VINS SON C ARL V SON ABF2 AMBER JANKOWSKI-JENKINS 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

PHOTOGRAPHERS

STRINGERS

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Captain’s Corner

Shipmates, CAG, Commodore and I want to take a moment to emphasize some points about our upcoming port call to Bahrain. It is still a little early to be thinking about port, but we want leadership to have time to fully discuss what is contained in my email. There are some things you need to understand about Bahrain that will help you and the entire team to be successful. Take the five minutes it takes to read this; think about it; think about your liberty behavior (you know yourself better than anybody); and if you don’t understand a part of this then ask questions. We want you to have fun. We also want you to be successful. We haven’t had a major liberty incident in 5th Fleet, and this would be a terrible port to get our first. Guidance will be put out; Chain of Command will reiterate the rules; XO/DCAG will hold an entering port brief—-all of this guidance is designed to ensure you know the rules. Knowing the rules is not enough as I just experienced during Captain’s Mast. I just adjudicated too many cases from poor liberty choices in Dubai—every one of them knew the rules. I doled out 280 days of restriction and put two individuals in the brig for three days bread and water. Those that got 45 days restriction will miss our next two ports. I have no tolerance for shipmates who drink so much that when questioned they get belligerent—you need to know that! If you drink too much and enter the cloud of stupidity, you need to be attentive to those around you and follow direction. Do not get violent--violent drunks when others are trying to help find themselves at Captain’s Mast. If you just get drunk and are courteous, you will likely not end up at Captain’s Mast. Too many of the folks I just saw don’t remember the events; computing their peak BAC level, several were near .3 (way too high, nearly four times the legal limit and easily in the crosshairs for being picked up for drunk in public in an Arab country). Know yourself and how you act. Surround yourself with those that will keep you out of trouble. Follow the rules! Speaking of rules, here are some guidelines to understand that will keep you fair in the channel during our upcoming port call (Big XO and DCAG will cover the exact rules): 1) Bahrain is not Dubai. Dubai is a much larger city; Dubai has more modern amenities, more hotels, more bars; Dubai is more westernized for an Arab nation. What you might have seen or experienced in Dubai will be different in Bahrain. It looks different. They dress differently. It does not “absorb” us as well. 2) US Military Permanent Presence. There is a much greater US presence with 5th Fleet on Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain. NSA Bahrain has a large security force (650 MAs) and they actively patrol Manama and the hotels whether ships are present or not. Think of Bahrain as a fishbowl. Bahrain is small and NAVCENT saturates the area with MAs. If you have overnight liberty and decide to violate curfew (midnight), you WILL get caught. They know where Sailors like to hang out and they will actively patrol and find you. If you go to off-limit areas, you will get caught. It

isn’t worth jeopardizing liberty in future ports when those future ports will be in 7th Fleet (possibly Australia). Don’t drink to the point of the Cloud of Stupidity and then risk it. 3) Freedom Souk. On NSA Bahrain there is a place called Freedom Souk where they sell alcohol (similar to the Oasis in Dubai but more indoors). You will not be able to buy alcohol at the package store (they only sell to permanently stationed military), but there are clubs inside the Freedom Souk (O-Club, Chiefs Club, E-Club). If you choose to drink there, you need to have a buddy and you need to stay with your buddy--I have no tolerance for the excuse that “My buddy went to the head and I lost track of him/her.” If you just want to shop at the exchange, use WIFI or work out at the gym, you don’t need a buddy. We will have shore patrol and beach guard present. If you drink on NSA Bahrain, you and your buddy can drink and you don’t need a sober buddy—this is for your convenience, but keep your wits about you; this is another location actively patrolled by NSA Bahrain. If you argue with them, I will not be able to help you (see the first paragraph of this email if there is any question about my stance on this). If you are courteous, they will courtesy turn you over to us. Then we can sort it out. Don’t be a belligerent drunk! If they question your behavior, take the high road and cooperate. If you don’t, they won’t have any tolerance for you. Just zip it and obey orders. If you are drunk and they are sober, I will believe them and not you. 4) NSA Bahrain vs. Out in Town. If you drink in Freedom Souk, you cannot “pre-lube” and then head out into town. This is to protect you from entering the cloud of stupidity out in town. You need to have your wits about you out in town. There are groups in town that don’t appreciate our presence. We don’t have any current threats and NSA Bahrain and the Bahraini authorities are very active in pursuing any threats. However, you need to have your wits about you which means don’t get obliterated out in town. There is a large Shia population in Bahrain with a history of civil unrest with the ruling Sunni population. Areas placed off-limits are there for your own protection. 5) Hard Liquor. They sell hard liquor in Freedom Souk (in the club). We haven’t done that in the Oasis on purpose. Drinking hard liquor quickly and not moderating your intake will give you a straight shot to the cloud of stupidity. We will have water present; put a bottle of water in your hands between each hard liquor drink if you choose to drink it. Know your limit. If you are under 21, you cannot drink hard liquor--don’t risk it and be thankful that you can enjoy beer and wine. Make sure your buddy knows your limit too. Make an agreement between each other so that you don’t ruin each other’s liberty. Two heads are not always better than one. Stick to the plan. I will hold liberty buddies accountable for their buddy’s actions. 6) Sex Assaults. We have done very well this cruise; those assaults that have happened that we are aware of have been dealt with swiftly (there are likely assaults that have happened that we are not aware of). There are BEQ rooms on

NSA Bahrain. Many of you might know folks that are stationed or temporarily stationed at NSA Bahrain. An NSA Bahrain rule state that they cannot have guests past 2200—follow that rule. If you plan on going into a hotel room alone with a person of the opposite (or possibly even same sex), I highly recommend a verbal conversation if you think there might be mixed intentions. Don’t assume; talk about the situation. Make yourself a hard target and take a friend. Be careful how much you drink; know your surroundings. If you have a liking for a shipmate, don’t let excessive alcohol facilitate you crossing a line you wouldn’t cross if you were sober. Body language can be misunderstood; verbally communicate your intentions. Make sure you firmly understand consent. Treat a drunk yes as a no. And remember, it is generally just a bad practice to sleep with a coworker. 7) Bystander Intervention. This applies to sexual assault. This applies to drinking in public. It applies to suicide related behavior. Have the courage to be a good bystander, regardless of rank. If you see a shipmate pushing the limit, acting strange, depressed, have the courage to intervene and help. 8) Drunk in public. Don’t do it. The culture of Bahrain is different than the culture of Dubai and there is less tolerance for drunk Sailors. If you want to drink, do it on NSA Bahrain. If you want to experience the culture of Bahrain, do it sober. 9) Five Days. You have five days to experience Bahrain. Don’t pack all your fun into the first night. Do something fun that you will remember and that you can talk about. If your idea of fun is drinking for the four days you are off duty, then you probably do not have a good plan. We are there for five days because we have some work that needs to be done at this mid-deployment point. Don’t get plastered if you are on the duty section the next day or if you are expected to work. We don’t need to hurt someone. I realize some of this may sound paternalistic. Nobody enters port planning to be a drunken idiot and to puke in a trashcan. In Dubai, I witnessed a Sailor put his entire head in a trashcan (the ones with a cover that were in the Oasis). He sat there for two minutes retching in the can. Then he sat down on the pavement for a while. Then his liberty buddies and security escorted him back to the ship. I did not see him at Captain’s mast because he was cooperative and did what he was told to do. Bottom line, be a good buddy and don’t let your shipmate get that stinking drunk-intervene. You’ve done exceptionally well this deployment. 98% of you have done exceptionally well on liberty. We have answered the call for every mission and put a tremendous amount of molten lead and iron on target. I want you to leave with the same strong reputation that you have built to this point in deployment—don’t let poor liberty performance stain your stellar reputation. We will be under the microscope. Keep what you’ve earned and keep up the great job! V/R CAPT “T”

Remembering the Life and Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Curtis D. Spencer

“W

e are now faced with the fact that tomorrow is today. We are confronted with the fierce urgency of now. In this unfolding conundrum of life and history, there ‘is’ such a thing as being too late. This is no time for apathy or complacency. This is a time for vigorous and positive action,” said Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., during a speech delivered in 1967. Americans will celebrate the the legacy of a man who aided in weaving change, peace and tolerance into the fabric of our culture on Jan. 19 - Martin Luther King Day. He was born Michael King Jr., but the senior Michael King changed both his and his son’s name to Martin Luther King and Martin Luther King, Jr., respectively, following a trip to Berlin to attend a clergy conference. While there, MLK Sr. had been inspired by the life of the leading Protestant reformer and one of Germany’s greatest theologians, Martin Luther. MLK Jr. rose to prominence as an instrumental leader in the 1955 Montgomery Bus Boycott, staged after the arrest of Rosa Parks. The boycott helped bring about the 1956 District Court ruling that racial segregation on buses was unconstitutional. In 1957, he helped found the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and served as its first president. King also assisted in the organization of the 1963 March on Washington where he delivered his “I Have a Dream” speech and established himself as one of the greatest public speakers in American history. On Oct. 14, 1964, King received the Nobel Peace Prize for his work in combating racial inequality through nonviolence. Demand for a federal holiday in King’s honor began after he was assassinated on April 4, 1968. The journey the holiday would take to ratification reflected King’s own triumphs and tribulations. The notion for the holiday was originally promoted by labor unions. Years passed following the idea’s inception and the cause continued to gain momentum. Once it made its way to Washington D.C., a bi-partisan effort began. Democratic

President Ronald Reagan signs legislation to create a federal holiday honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in the Rose Garden of the White House on Nov. 2, 1983. (Photos courtesy of the National Archives.)

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. waves to the crowd at the National Mall in Washington D.C., Aug. 28, 1963. (Photo by Francis Miller/Getty Images)

House Representative John Conyers and Republican Senator Edward Brooke introduced a bill in Congress to make King’s birthday, Jan. 15, a national holiday. In 1979 it fell five votes short of the number needed to be passed. Following the set-back, proponents of the holiday turned to the general public for support. The strategy proved extremely successful and the movement gained a popular and influential ally. Famous musician Stevie Wonder wrote and produced the single “Happy Birthday” to garner support for the movement in 1980. Wonder would also go on to host the “Rally for Peace Press Conference” in 1981 to promote the common goal. In total, more than five million signatures were collected for a petition to Congress to pass the bill into law. The result of the combined efforts was the largest petition in favor of a cause in United States history. On Nov. 2, 1983, President Ronald Reagan signed a bill to create a federal holiday to honor King. The holiday would be observed the third Monday in January each year. Jan. 20, 1986 was the first MLK Jr. federal holiday. Once established, proponents urged participants to do more than just reflect on Dr. King’s legacy. Congressman John Lewis and Former Senator Harris Wofford together introduced the national Martin Luther King Day of Service Act, a federal legislation aimed at transforming the King holiday into a day of positive action and volunteer service in his honor. President Bill Clinton signed the proposed legislation on Aug. 23, 1994. The call for community service is not only made on this day for followers of MLK Jr., though. MLK Jr. practiced peace and community service 365 days a year. When people put hard work, dedication and a willingness to work side-by-side with others to assist those in need, no matter their gender, creed, race, or orientation, then the King legacy lives on. “An individual has not started living until he can rise above the narrow confines of his individualistic concerns to the broader concerns of all humanity,” MLK Jr. reminds us.

umpDay

Know Your Body and What Works for You By Senior Chief Navy Counselor Kim Lewis

Senior Chief Navy Counselor Kim Lewis poses for photo before participating in a physical fitness class in the hangar bay of Carl Vinson. (Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Travis Alston.)

As for fitness classes, fitboss offers everything from spin to yoga. I was excited to see yoga introduced to the ship. Some of us have flexibility issues. Without flexibility, you can’t exercise to your full potential, in my opinion. One of the most critical elements concerning overall fitness is portion control. My fellow chiefs get a good laugh at my eating routine. I never use a regular-sized tray from the mess. I bring a bowl with me and only eat what fits into that bowl. It is a great way for me to control my portions; it works for me. You have to do what works for you. Understanding what works for you is vital. Don’t try to look like someone else. You have to understand your body and what exercises or eating habits work for you. People carry weight differently. Don’t worry about how much weight you lose, your clothes will tell you everything. If you put on a piece of clothing that was tight a month ago and now it hangs off you, you lost weight and inches. Although I may not be the ship’s fitboss, I encourage each and everyone of you to come and participate in one of the fitness classes. If you feel brave, come to one of my spin classes, so we can ‘party on a bike.’ If you have any issues or concerns, please feel free to contact me. See you at spin.

ith this month being Health Awareness Month, I would like to remind you all of the importance of participating in some type of physical training and proper food portion control. To me, health awareness means longevity for you and your family. Not only should you want to get fit and stay fit for the Navy, but for you and your family as well. The commanding officer has announced the birth of new babies over the 1MC since we began this deployment. Health awareness should be a part of your every-day life. Meeting the Navy’s standards is awesome, but you have to think about longevity and sustaining your health long-term. Although a ship isn’t the ideal place to promote fitness, the ship’s fitboss and the food service officer do a great job providing a widearray of fitness classes and food options to help Team Vinson. Just like you need a battle buddy, you need a physical training (PT) buddy; someone who will push you to work out when you don’t want to and vice versa; someone who will see you eat something you shouldn’t and correct you. Ladies, just like that friend who won’t let you wear an ugly dress or gentlemen, that friend that shouldn’t let you walk around without a fresh cut, your PT buddy will help keep you on track and won’t let you down no Senior Chief Navy Counselor Kim Lewis leads a spin class in Carl Vinson’s sea-side gym. (Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Travis Alston.) matter what.

Navy Aerographer’s Mates, More Than Weathermen Story and photos by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Shantece Gonzalez

f you tune into the Big XO’s morning show you might notice Aerographer’s mate (AG) 1st Class Amy Sexton providing the five-day forecast. Although this is what most people expect from AG’s, there is a whole lot more to their story. “Everyone thinks of us as just the weather people, but our job is much broader than that,” said Lt. James Fritz, Carl Vinson’s (CVN 70) meteorology and oceanography officer. Equipped with gauges, kestrels and barometers, Aerographers’ mates duties include anti-submarine and mine warfare, determining how sounds and waves propagate through the atmosphere and water. “Strike briefs are one of our biggest tasks,” Fritz said. “We also use TDAs (tactical decision aids) to figure out how far out the enemy can see us using the electromagnetic spectrum. With this we can determine how close our planes can get before they are detected.” With 12 to 15 briefs a day, AGs’ input often play a key role when the commanding officer is deciding whether or not to continue a mission. “We don’t just predict the weather for the ship, we also predict what the weather is going to be like for our pilots flying aircraft and dropping bombs,” Fritz said.

Aerographers Mate 1st Class Joseph Dykstra records environmental readings aboard Carl Vinson.

Aerographers Mate 3rd Class Timothy Barbarick uses a kestrel to take temperature and dew point readings aboard Carl Vinson.

A lot of training goes into preparing AGs for the fleet. Prospective AGs attend a three-month long A-school in Biloxi, Mississippi, which prepares them to become observers and earn their rating badges. After some handson experience in the fleet, AGs can attend “C” school, which condenses what would normally be a four-year baccalaureate degree into just nine months. “People think they can just get the weather information from the weather channel but in actuality, they get it from us,” Sexton said. “Our information gets put into the model at the national weather center.” With training, experience, the latest technology and interpretation AGs are able to predict what weather conditions the strike group might face with over 90 percent accuracy. “I am very proud of the team and the accuracy that they have been attaining here throughout deployment,” Sexton said. “Getting positive feedback from your customers is the greatest feeling. It makes a forecaster want to work that much harder to maintain that standard.”

Aerographers Mate 1st Class Joseph Dykstra, right, reviews the five-day forecast aboard Carl Vinson.

Team Vinson: Angels among Eagles By Chief Mass Communication Specialist Russ Tafuri and Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Curtis D. Spencer

n a recent Navy message it was announced that the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, known as the Blue Angels, are hiring. As everyone knows, it usually helps to know someone at the company you are applying for a job with to give you a leg up about the application process and what to expect. Who knows, they might even agree to put in a good word for you. Well, if you’re interested in applying for duty with the Blue Angels, you’re in luck. Currently there are three Team Vinson crew members who are former Blue Angels and are willing to talk to you about the process of applying for and becoming a Blue Angel. Working with the Blue Angels is a special duty program and is unlike duty anywhere else, requiring some unique job qualifications. “Positions within the Blue Angels are personality driven,” said Lt. Holly Taylor, former administration officer for the Blue Angels from Sept. 2011 to Nov. 2013 and currently Carl Vinson’s personnel officer. “You must be patient and open to learning new things.” And by learning new things, Taylor isn’t talking about learning a new rating. She’s talking about becoming a Blue Angel as another Team Vinson crew member explains. “Being selected to the Blue Angels is a unique opportunity in the Navy, like no other I’ve experienced my entire career,” stated Chief Mass Communication Specialist Russ Tafuri, former Blue Angels public affairs chief from Nov. 2010 to Aug. 2014, and current Carl Vinson Media department leading chief petty officer. “The Blue Angels hire Sailors and make them Blue Angels. Those selected for duty with the Blues are activeduty men and women from the Navy and Marine Corps just like any of us on board the Carl Vinson. But as a Blue Angel, you are trained to represent the pride and professionalism of more than 500,000 active duty Sailors and Marines in the fleet doing the tough jobs every day – like everyone on this ship. Waking up each morning with that responsibility was an honor – every day of my four

Chief Mass Communication Specialist Russell Tafuri prepares for a backseat ride in a Blue Angel F/A-18 Hornet while assigned to the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels. (Photo courtesy of Chief Mass Communication Specialist Russell Tafuri.)

Lt. Holly Taylor flies in the back seat of an F/A-18 Hornet, while assigned to the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels.(Photo courtesy of Lt. Holly Taylor.)

years on the team.” While proficiency in your job is always expected at a new command, the Blue Angels have a unique perspective on the type of Sailor they are looking for. “They train people to be a Blue Angel, not just a Sailor who can do his/her job of their rating,” said Aviation Machinist’s Mate 1st Class Garrett Unruh, who served as an engine mechanic for the Blue Angels from Nov. 2010 to Nov. 2013, and currently a quality assurance representative for Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 113. “They are looking for specific personalities. We went on the road a lot, traveling to air shows. You have to be able to communicate and get along with people from all walks of life. I wouldn’t say they are looking for someone with a particular qualification, they are looking for someone with motivation.” Similar to other Navy commands, the Blue Angels are a mix of rates and ranks working together toward a common goal. The camaraderie is shared on all levels, explained Unruh. The chain of command and leadership were extremely supportive during his tenure. “It’s like no other command I have been a part of before,” Unruh said. “Everyone really becomes an extremely tightknit group. They say, ‘Once a Blue Angel, always a Blue Angel.’ To me that really rings true. Because you were a Blue Angel, no matter where you are for the rest of your life, you will have a group you can share that bond with and reach out to if you need anything.” Serving with the Blue Angels can be career-enhancing but also quite a challenge. Those selected for this special duty assignment may be required to adapt to new situations and locations and maybe even learn a few new things. And there is time away from home that is just part of the job; much like being part of Team Vinson. “We were busiest from March to November each year, traveling across the United States to airshows,” said Taylor. “I really had to step outside my comfort zone. I was doing a job that no amount of Navy administrative officer

An air-to-air photo of the Blue Angel Diamond Formation jets over Punta Gorda, Florida shot by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Russ Tafuri from the backseat of the jet.

training could completely prepare me for. I had to learn quickly.” There is also an inherent public relations part of the job for Sailors selected to duty as a Blue Angel, in addition to their usual responsibilities. “You get to go into a person’s ‘back yard’ and show them what the Navy is all about,” Taylor said. “You get to interact with them and hear their stories and share yours, while reinforcing the Navy’s mission.” While the duty is challenging and the travel frequent, there are also some benefits to being selected for the team that are unique to duty with the Blue Angels. “Being able to fly in one of the Blue Angel’s jets was easily my favorite experience,” Taylor said. “I have 22 hours of flight time in their jets. There is nothing like it.” Tafuri echoed Taylor’s enthusiasm for flying in the world renowned blue and yellow jets. “The enlisted Blue Angels Public Affairs department staff

The #7 Blue Angel F/A-18 Hornet, assigned to the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels, flies over the crowd during an air show at Pensacola Beach, Florida. (Photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Russell Tafuri.)

are the only ones authorized to shoot the air-to-air photos of the Blue Angels from inside the jet for the squadron. So all of us enlisted in the public affairs shop flew at almost every air show and during many practice demonstrations,” said Tafuri. “That experience is one I will never forget, and is the highlight of my naval career. Pulling almost 8 Gs with no G-suit and getting the photo that’s published around the world within hours. Nothing tops that!” But it’s not just about getting to fly in a Blue Angel F/A18 Hornet. This duty means you may also rub shoulders with some very famous people. “One of the best things during my time there was being able to meet celebrities,” Taylor said. “I met Arnold Palmer and Harrison Ford to name a couple. To them the Blue Angels are the real celebrities.” The Blue Angles are accepting applications until March 15 of this year, seeking enlisted Sailors with a projected rotation date of Sept. 2015 to April 2016. The Blue Angels are seeking applications this year from: a chief aviation electrician’s mate, chief aviation machinist’s mate and chief aviation structural mechanic; a first class aviation electrician’s mate, first and second class aviation electronics technician, second class aviation ordnanceman, second class aviation machinist’s mate, second class aviation maintenance administrationman, first, second and third class aviation structural mechanic, second class aviation structural mechanic (equipment), second class aviation support equipment technician, second class aviation survival equipmentman, second class hospital corpsman, first and second class and seaman logistics specialist, first and second class mass communication specialist and a second class yeoman. Sailors who are interested in applying, are welcome to explore NAVADMIN 004/15, talk to their career counselor or log on to the Blue Angels website (www.BlueAngels. navy.mil) for more information on the opportunity to serve the Blue Angel’s team. Or you can contact Taylor, Tafuri or Unruh - Carl Vinson shipmates who have been there, done that, and got the Blue Angel T-shirt.

Photo by MC2 John P. Wagner

Photo by MC3 Shantece Gonzalez

Around

Photo by MC2 Scott Fenaroli

Photo by MC2 John P. Wagner

Photo by MC2 Jacob Sisco

Photo by MC2 John P. Wagner

Photo by MC3 Hansel Pintos

Photo by MC2 John P. Wagner

Team Vinson Photo by MC3 Eric Coffer

Photo by MC2 John P. Wagner

Photo by MC3 Eric Coffer

Molding the Future Force Story and photos by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Curtis D. Spencer

f you have ever attended a retirement ceremony, one of the keynotes in the retiree’s speech is thanking a mentor that helped them along the way. This is proof of the lasting impact a mentor can have on even the most senior Sailors. Mentors aboard USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) help mold junior Sailors into tomorrow’s leaders through military instruction, career advice and by sharing their life experiences.

Chief Logistics Specialist Adam Torres, left, and Logistics Specialist 3rd Class Samuel Diaz review Navy policies during a mentoring session aboard Carl Vinson.

“To be a mentor you have to be current on the Navy’s rules and regulations,” said Chief Logistics Specialist Adam Torres, a mentor aboard Carl Vinson. “You have to be willing to put in the time with a junior Sailor. You don’t just give them the answers, you help them develop the tools to find the answers themselves.” Sailors can seek a mentor of their choice, who will assist them in building their careers and inspire them to accomplish their personal best. Mentors are in place to provide direction and options, not preferential treatment, Torres explained. “Mentors are expected to help guide Sailors and provide insight,” Torres said. “I can tell my junior Sailors about my experiences and some of the things I did that may have or have not worked for me. This could be beneficial because they can avoid some common mistakes during their careers.” Having a mentor who has established him or herself within a command and who is familiar with the work flow has multiple benefits. They demonstrate how to gauge the environment, provide a better perspective on the pressures and surprises of a mission-focused culture, and help temper expectations of what one can accomplish, should accomplish, and in what time frame, Torres added. “I would be lost without my mentor,” said Logistics

Specialist 3rd Class Samuel Diaz. “I appreciate having a positive role model to guide and assist me, personally and professionally.” “In the past when I have been lost in my job or confused about what to do in my career, it has been great to have someone to turn to,” Diaz said. “My mentor has helped keep me focused, and taught me what I need to do to be successful.” The Sailor being mentored is not the only beneficiary of the relationship. Mentors are consistently pushed by the Sailors they help, allowing them to learn and grow throughout the relationship. “Even when you are up-to-date on Navy policy, sometimes you get a question you have to research,” said Torres. “When I find the answer, we both benefit and learn something.” A mentor’s guidance can help Sailors swiftly progress through their Navy careers, In most cases the Sailor being mentor edwill eventually find themselves in a mentoring role. Each Sailor draws from their experiences and those of others before them to develop their personal leadership and mentorship style, according to Torres. “In my experience, mentorship aboard Carl Vinson has been priceless,” Diaz said. “I hope I can work to have a positive effect on other Sailors’ careers in order to give back the knowledge that helped me. There are things I have learned that will benefit Sailors I mentor in the future.” As subject matter experts, mentors are expected to help set Sailors up with the tools to excel. “Mentorship puts Sailors on a more enlightened path,” Torres added. “They can have a fair, honest and sometimes blunt appraisal of their work. With mentors, Sailors can build on their strengths, understand their weaknesses and grow into the strongest possible leaders.”

Chief Logistics Specialist Adam Torres, left, and Logistics Specialist 3rd Class Samuel Diaz discuss Navy policies and regulations during a mentoring session aboard Carl Vinson.

USS Nimitz Completes Homeport Change By USS Nimitz, Public Affairs

he aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) arrived at Naval Base Kitsap Bremerton Jan. 13 after successfully transiting from Everett, Washington to Bremerton, Washington. Though only a relatively short distance from Everett, the official homeport change to Bremerton will allow Nimitz families to move their households without paying out of pocket. Nimitz will reside in Bremerton while undergoing its planned incremental availability at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard (PSNS) and Intermediate Maintenance Facility where the ship will receive scheduled maintenance and upgrades, an essential part in

keeping the near 40 year old ship at peak performance. “This availability is our chance to take care of some much needed work,” said Capt. John C. Ring, Nimitz’ commanding officer. “This is also a perfect opportunity for the crew to not only make the ship better but better themselves. I expect a challenging but very successful period working alongside PSNS and all the professionals at Naval Base Kitsap Bremerton.” Nimitz was last in Bremerton for its 2010-2012 docked planned incremental availability. Since then, Nimitz has participated in 2012 Rim of the Pacific, completed an 8.5 month Western Pacific deployment and

participated in multiple task group exercises. For more updates from USS Nimitz, like us at www.facebook.com/cvn68/. For more information visit www. nimitz.navy.mil For more news from USS Nimitz (CVN 68), visit www.navy.mil/local/ cvn68/.

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The aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) approaches the pier of its new homeport at Naval Base Kitsap. Nimitz completes an administrative homeport change from Naval Base Coronado to Naval Base Kitsap to conduct a docking planned incremental availability. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Scott A. McCall/Released)

Keel-Hauled

NAVY

by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class James P. Bleyle

Sailors assigned to various departments and repair lockers aboard USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) concluded a damage control olympics aboard the ship, Jan. 13. The event tested Sailorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; overall knowledge in numerous aspects of damage control. Repair locker 7A were the winners of the competition. (Photos by USS Carl Vinson Media Department.)

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Team Vinson in the Spotlight

Seaman Xavier Imari Millercounts Date: Jan. 12 Dept: Deck

IT3 Bradley Tew Date: Jan. 13 Dept: Intelligence

As Deck department damage control maintenance man, Seaman Millercounts completed 147 maintenance hours on all damage control equipment within the department, to include 48 battle lanterns, 20 hatches, 20 doors, 20 CO2 bottles, 10 scuttles, and 7 fire stations. He also trained four new personnel in damage control maintenance ensuring Deck department and Carl Vinson’s material readiness condition remained at 100 percent.

As an Intelligence department SCI systems admistrator, IT3 Tew spent more than 170 hours trouble shooting the TS-VOIP network issues on board with Fleet Electronic Support San Diego, ultimately returning the system to full mission status. He also assisted NAVCENT in trouble shooting issues with their TS-VTC, which led to its successful repair, enabling Lt. General McKenzie to participate in a vital TS-VTC on board.

DECKPLATE DI A LO G U E S Superman, Spiderman or Batman?

ABFAN Toby Story

ABEAR Gina Schwieterman

LS2 Agulto Romeo

AMEAN Michelle Murray

ABHAN Gabriel Bane

“I would rather shoot webs out of my hands than have muscles, so spiderman.”

“Superman because he’s Clark Kent during the day and Superman at night. ”

“Batman has the best super power, money. ”

“Spiderman because he can shoot webs.”

“Batman is one of the best realistic super heroes.”

MR3 Jenna Rae Miettunen Date: Jan. 14 Dept: Engineering

MC3 Cody Howell Date: Jan. 15 Dept: Media

OS3 Briona Smith Date: Jan. 16 Dept: Operations

MM3 David E Brock Date: Jan. 17 Dept: Reactor

MR3 Miettunen is a highly motivated Sailor who plays a key role in Repair division for all critical repairs. With precision and skill she manufactured a union for the fourth stage cylinder assembly on the number two high pressure air compressor. The emergent repair was crucial to providing high-pressure air for multiple pieces of equipment onboard Carl Vinson. Additionally, she manufactured a compressor drive shaft collar the FS JEAN BART, restoring the shipâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s service air system.

MC3 Howell was selected due to his superior performance as a graphic artist within the Media department. Howell was instrumental in setting up and running the sound equipment for the entire run of Vinson Idol and he was also the lead on running audio for the Tyler Farr concert. Additionally, he provides expert graphic design support to Carl Vinson, Carrier Strike Group One and Carrier Air Wing Seventeen in support of Operation Inherent Resolve.

As a global command and control system maritime (GCCS-M) database manager for the Sea Combat Commander, OS3 Smith managed a common operational picture with over 2,000 surface and subsurface contacts in the Fifth Fleet area of responsibility. She supervised the track management server reporting of 21 coalition ships, supporting the maintenance of a coherent and up-to-date maritime picture for Commander, Carrier Strike Group One.

As bilge preservation program manager, MM3 Brock identified and documented more than 100 discrepancies in one reactor room oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bilges. Additionally, he was responsible for correcting 40 material condition discrepancies, improving the overall material condition of the propulsion plant. He is responsible for the management of all hazardous material used in reactor room one, ensuring both of his work-centers have all required hazardous materials to properly complete more than fifty weekly maintenance items.

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Team Vinson, It’s “Big Bucks Bingo” time again. Tickets sales will conclude today at 1845. Participants have a chance to win an array of half-way prizes. There is a $15,300 jackpot if you win bingo in 35 numbers or less. If you miss out on the jackpot, you still have a chance to win this week’s consolation prize, a Harley Davidson Iron 883 motorcycle. If you’re not a motorcycle rider, you can put the monetary value of the motorcycle toward another vehicle from Navy Auto Source. In addition to cash prizes and the motorcycle, you can also win a 2-terabyte hard drive, Beats by Dre headphones, or a mini jambox speaker. To shift gears, Bahrain tour sales

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will take place in the hangar bay, Jan. 19 through 20 from 09001200 and 1700-2000. Please take into account that due to it being the winter season, it will be a bit chilly during tours involving water. The golf tournament being held in Bahrain is at the Royal Golf Club and includes green fees, lunch, gifts and cart fees. Spots are limited and be reserved on a firstcome, first-served basis, so hurry to the ticket office to ensure your spot. Golf tournament sign ups will take place in the MWR ticket office Jan.19 through 21. As always, this crew’s moral is my top priority. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me.

NOW PLAYING CARL VINSON CINEMA CHANNEL

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REQUEST A MOVIE!

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THE HUNDRED-FOOT JOURNEY CHARLOTTE’S WEBB HERCULES GROUNDHOG DAY TOTAL RECALL (2012) THE HUNDRED-FOOT JOURNEY CHARLOTTE’S WEBB HERCULES GROUNDHOG DAY TOTAL RECALL (2012) THE HUNDRED-FOOT JOURNEY

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SIN CITY: A DAME TO KILL FOR THELMA & LOUISE BRAVEHEART JERSEY BOYS THE FULL MONTY SIN CITY: A DAME TO KILL FOR THELMA & LOUISE BRAVEHEART JERSEY BOYS

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