The voice vol 6 issue 1 (04jan15) by USS Carl Vinson

Team Vinson Celebrates

2015

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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

Contents 4

Team Vinson Rings in the New Year

United Through Reading

Military Pay & Compensation Rates

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Deck Log Entry

MWR - Photo Contest

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N SO N O VIN RL L VINS N A C R MC3 JAMES P. BLEYLE O N S A C IN SO ON MC3(SW) CURTIS D. SPENCER RL VIN INSONCARL V L VINS N A RL V R O N N C S A O C O ON CA N VIN 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 I S R IN S ON ON RL V VINSO CARL L VIN N CA ARL V SON VIN INS RL L VINS N CABROWN MC2(SW) LV RL SON N CAR INSO ON C L VIN NSON CANICHOLAS R A R O A C V N I S R LV S N L VI NSO ARL VIN CASCOTT N NC CA MC2(SW/AW) FENAROLI VIN INSO SO AR RL VI N C ARL SON CAR INSO ON RL VIN N C CKING CA ARL V SALEX A INSO N C VIN SON RL V INS L O MC2(SW) R O V A C VIN SON L V INS IN RL CA N CA RL V ON C ARL SON N V AR ON RL P.INWAGNER MC2(SW/AW) JOHN SO CA ARL V SON C CARL INSON N CA VINS SON C RL VIN INSO INS VIN V O L L V N N A C RL V N S R L VI N C R IGONZALEZ MC3(SW) SHANTECE N L O A L N A A V R I S O C R 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 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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Facebook.com/USSVINSON

Captain’s Corner Team VINSON, This past week, I had the honor and privilege to conduct two reenlistments. On New Years Eve I reenlisted IC3 Randy Bailey on the bridge with members of Air Department present. On New Years day I reenlisted LS1 Korilyn Barrett in the hangar bay with her supporters from Supply and AIMD. Making the decision to reenlist and continue serving one’s country is a big commitment. It is a personal decision. People reenlist for many different reasons. After more than five years of service, IC3 made the decision along with his wife, Lacie, that this Navy life is something they wanted to continue. LS1 Barrett has many more years in the Navy and was thrilled at the support she has received onboard and the opportunity to start a new year continuing her chosen profession. I was very fortunate to be asked to be their reenlisting officer--it is a privilege I don’t take lightly. It is an honor that these two Sailors didn’t take lightly as they repeated the reenlistment oath and dedicated themselves to two more years of faithful naval service. At the end of command indoctrination I routinely open up the floor for questions, and this week I was asked by one of our new Sailors what I thought about our reenlistment rates and especially about our rates for our female Sailors. I was quite frankly a little surprised to get this question at indoctrination. I thought for a second and my answer was quite simple. We can’t afford to reenlist everybody. However, we want to reenlist the right people, and we want people to reenlist for the right reason. As I approach twenty-nine years of service, I’ve always stated I’d get out when it stopped being fun and when it was no longer a challenge. Fortunately, the Navy has presented me with plenty of both. As the Commanding Officer, I certainly pay attention to our reenlistment rates. I owe it to all of you to ensure my leadership and my leaders create an environment that you can thrive and succeed in. I can think of no more important mission than our current mission--eradicating an uncivilized group of terrorists that contradict everything our great country stands for. At indoctrination, I always take the opportunity to discuss the good fortune we have being onboard CARL VINSON at the tip of the spear conducting this mission. This may be

a long deployment, but we are the only carrier-air wing team currently operating day in and day out fulfilling this very important mission. It is extremely gratifying, and this experience is part of the equation that will determine whether our Sailors choose to reenlist. The mission is only part of the equation on whether we choose to reenlist; success and job satisfaction play a huge part. Another exercise I conduct at indoctrination is to have new Sailors fill out a goal sheet. There are 12 slots on the sheet of paper--six for professional goals and six for personal goals. These professional and personal goals are split up with three for short term that I define as less than a year and three for 3-5 years which fits the timeline that most Sailors serve onboard CARL VINSON. Many of us associate the New Year with resolutions.... or goals. Writing down your goals and driving towards them can go a long way toward being successful. Serving at sea on a long deployment can facilitate many of these goals-there are fewer distractions than you might have when we return to San Diego. Goals, success, reenlistment. The bottom line is when it comes to reenlisting you want to have options. There will be a time and a place for every one of us to “jump ship” and start a new career. When that time comes, you want to be able to do it on your terms with a solid foundation that you have built from working hard. Quite simply, you want to keep your options open. I have many theories, but my theory on whether people reenlist after their first enlistment is driven primarily by whether they like who they work with and who they work for. Let’s face it, we are all human beings and humans need to feel good about what they are doing. We all like positive feedback. We all like to know that our efforts are appreciated. We all like leaders that care. These human interactions are a big reason why people decide to stay in our organization. I see a lot of this positive reinforcement every day. Some leaders are naturally better at this than others--some need to work harder at it. As a predominantly Type “A” organization and competitive crowd, we all likely have room to improve in this department. As a leader (and we are all leaders at many different levels), we should all make a New Years resolution to be introspective and evaluate how well we are fulfilling this leadership tenant. So whether you choose to reenlist, go to college, or choose another profession, recommit yourself and make career decisions for the right reason. Give yourself options. Lead so that others will want to follow... and the reenlistment numbers will all work themselves out. You should all be very proud of the part you are playing to make this deployment and team a huge success! Happy New Year, THANK YOU for what you are doing, thank you for those that choose to stay Navy, and good luck with your resolutions. All the Best, CAPT “T”

Team Vinson Rings the New Year in at Sea Story by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Curtis D. Spencer Photos by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Alex King

SS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17 Sailors were among the first to ring in the New Year during their Western Pacific/Arabian Gulf deployment Dec. 31, celebrating hours prior to friends and family in the ship’s homeport of San Diego and across the U.S. To celebrate this event, Carl Vinson’s Morale, Welfare and Recreation division sponsored a New Year’s Eve celebration in the ship’s hangar bay with live music, a DJ, a picture slideshow and dancing. “I really appreciated having the opportunity to celebrate like this,” said Aviation Ordnanceman Airman Stephanie Romero. “I miss home, but it was nice to sip on a mock-tail and welcome 2015 with my Navy family.” While the crew reveled to ring in the new year, the mission never left the minds of the crew as echoed by Capt. Karl Thomas, Carl Vinson commanding officer. “We are entering what will be a challenging time for our crew. Every member of the team must maintain high standards, follow procedures every time, look out for and respect our shipmates at every turn,” stated Thomas.

Information Systems Technician 2nd Class Jamie Pedersen hands out candy at a New Year’s celebration in the hangar bay of Carl Vinson.

Personnel Specialist 3rd Class Queenisha Lewis performs at a New Year’s celebration in the hangar bay of Carl Vinson.

Ship’s Serviceman Seaman Robert Deal performs at a New Year’s celebration in the hangar bay of Carl Vinson.

Carl Vinsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2014 Vinson Idol Winner, Master-at-Arms 3rd Class Caitlin Barto

Families United Through Reading Story by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Travis Alston Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Nick Brown

ne of the things my kids look forward to is movie night. We rearrange the furniture and gather in front of the TV with blankets while indulging in all the foods that we normally don’t have throughout the week. The other favorite is bedtime. Hearing their favorite story, no matter if they’ve heard it a million times, always puts a sparkle in their eyes. Being deployed does not allow for those types of opportunities. But with “United Through Reading”, parents can still continue that tradition with their children. United Through Reading is an underway, quality-of-life program for military families that connects parents and children through reading. The Sailor records themselves reading a book and the videos are then converted to DVD’s and sent to children or family members. “It is very important for kids to have tangible reminders of their parents, while separated,” said Carl Vinson United Through Reading Coordinator, Religious Program Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Ashley Schumacher. “Although the program isn’t required, our civilian coordinators and I highly encourage members to participate.” Schumacher says communication is especially important during deployments. Not only does it increase the morale and welfare of Sailors who are separated from the ones they love and searching for ways to demonstrate their love from afar, but it fosters deeper connections on both sides. “I don’t have kids myself, but I am the second oldest of ten, therefore I love children,” said Schumacher. “I love this program and can really appreciate its value.” First-time participant Logistics Specialist 1st Class (SW) Korilyn Barrett said the videos will put a huge smile on her kids’ faces when they arrive home. “I am a single mother. This is an adjustment for all of us. They had to move to Maine to live with my parents while I am deployed,” said Barrett. “My duty as a mother is to make sure they have security and stability – part of that is keeping in contact so they know how important they are to me every day.

Logistics Specialist 1st Class Korilyn Barrett blows a kiss to her children after reading a book as part of Carl Vinson’s United Through Reading Program.

“The comfort of my voice on those hard days will surely make them smile. They love getting mail, so getting a piece of me in the mail will make it that much better,” added Barrett. “Anything that puts a smile on my children’s face and makes their day better is an exceptional program.” Service members can record as many videos as they want and just need to sign up for a time slot at the religions ministries office. Sailors can record their readings from 0900-1500 and 1900-2200, everyday except Sundays and during port visits. “I appreciate the efforts of the religious program specialists in making this a reality,” Barrett said. “Being a mother is the best thing that ever happened to me and making the sacrifice to put that to the side so that I can be a great Sailor is difficult. The opportunity to do both is entwined in this program, and I think it is remarkable.” “Take advantage of the program,” added Schumacher. “Do it as often as you like. We provide a lot of books, but you can read a personal book if you prefer. It’s a great program and will definitely put a smile on someone’s face.”

LMRC: Oasis of Serenity Story and photos by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class James P. Bleyle

here are many ways stress can build while on deployment. Close quarters, repetitive schedules and intense workloads can push Sailors into unhealthy stress levels. Thankfully, the ship’s learning media research center(lmrc), commonly known as the ship’s library, is here to help. Whether you are in need on network computers, video games or even a good book to escape, Vinson’s command religious ministries department (CRMD) has provided a place for Sailors to unwind. “We are here to help alleviate the day-to-day stress Sailors encounter,” said Religious Programs Specialist 3rd Class Jahson Memeh. “It’s important that crew members have a place to go for some relaxation.” According to Memeh, the calming effect the ship’s library can have on Sailors is noticeable. “Some people storm through the door, and you can see the anger or the frustration all over their faces,” Memeh said. “But after they spend some time in the library talking with family, playing videogames or even watching a movie in the ship’s theater, they open up the door much more quietly then when they walked in. It’s really special to know that I helped make that happen.” The ship’s library is also home to several seminars and classes run by CRMD to help give Sailors additional stress fighting tools. “We host several excellent classes that are open for all hands,” Memeh said. “We have a Breaking Bad study on morality and ethics, Life Skills classes and a Stress Busters classes. We are here to help the crew in any way possible.” Memeh’s duties in the library include keeping the spaces clean, making sure that patrons are abiding by the rules and of course, to make sure the books are organized. “It wouldn’t be a library without books,” Memeh said. “We have several titles available for personal or professional development, as well as works of fiction. There’s nothing like escaping into a good book.” Memeh urge Sailors, even those that aren’t feeling stressed, to visit the library and unwind and share some

Sailors check their email and surf the web at the library on Carl Vinson.

Fireman Kristin Davis, left, and Hull Technician 3rd class Tamara Stroud read magazines in the ship’s library.

fellowship with shipmates. “The ship’s library is your library,” Memeh said. “If it wasn’t for the Sailors aboard, we would have no reason to exist. So come on down any time you need, and we’ll be here for you.”

Vinson’s learning media research center provides stations, that support console or computer based gaming systems.

Religious Programs Specialist 3rd Class Jahson Memeh looks through a book at the library on Carl Vinson.

AMERICA S

NAVY

DoD Releases 2015 Military Pay and Compensation Rates Story by Defense Media Activity WASHINGTON

ast week, the Department of Defense announced the 2015 military pay and compensation rates for service members, with most service members receiving a one percent increase in basic pay. The new rates for basic pay, basic allowance for housing, basic allowance for subsistence, and the cost of living allowance rates for the contiguous United States will take effect on Jan. 1, 2015. Basic pay for service members will increase one

percent, except for general and flag officers who will not see an increase in 2015. For example, an E-4 with 3 years of service will see an increase in basic pay of $22.20 per month, while an O-3 with 6 years of service will receive a basic pay increase of $54.30 per month in 2015. Basic allowance for housing rates for service members in 2015 will increase on average $17 per month, or 0.5 percent. Rates are calculated using median current market rent and average utilities (including electricity, heat, and water/sewer) for each pay grade, both with and without dependents. Two changes were made to BAH rate computations for 2015: renterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s insurance, which contributed an average of one percent to rates, was eliminated, and the Fiscal Year 2015 National Defense Authorization Act reduced housing rates on average one percent for service members. However, individual rate protection for service members remains an integral part of the BAH program. This means that even if BAH rates decline - including through the elimination of renterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s insurance and the reduction in the calculated rate - a service member who maintains uninterrupted BAH eligibility in a given location will not see a rate decrease. This ensures that service members who have made long-term commitments in the form of a lease or contract are not penalized if local housing costs decrease. Service members can calculate their BAH payment by using the basic allowance for housing calculator here. The 2015 basic allowance for subsistence rates for military members will increase by 2.9 percent over last year. The new rates are: * $367.92 per month for enlisted members * $253.38 per month for officers The annual adjustments to basic allowance for subsistence -- a monthly nontaxable cash payment to military members intended to be used to buy food -- are linked to changes in food prices as measured by the annual change in the U.S. Department of Agriculture Cost of Food at Home Index. From the beginning of October 2013 through the end of September 2014, the index rose by 2.9 percent, forming the basis for the increased BAS rates. The Defense Department also released its 2015 contiguous United States cost of living allowance rates. Roughly 12,000 members will see a decrease in their CONUS COLA payments, while some 7,000 members will see an increase or no change, and 4,000 members will no longer receive a CONUS COLA payment. CONUS COLA is a taxable supplemental allowance designed to help offset higher prices in high-cost locations, and rates vary based on location, pay grade, years of service and dependent status. Rates can increase or decrease depending on the prices in a specific duty location compared to prices in an average CONUS location.

review

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Cory Sanders

Borderlands: The PreSequel, the third entry in the first person shooter Borderlands series, takes place on an alien moon called Elpis, before the maniac known as “Handsome Jack” began his galactic rampage to claim every vault in the name of his technological powerhouse, Hyperion. Jack is a middle-man employee in Hyperion trying to save the corporation’s interest from raiders, scavengers and rival corporations with assistance from the four vault hunters he trusts the most. The vault hunters you can play as in this video game are characters from Borderlands and Borderlands 2 story lines: Wilhelm, one of the enemy bosses in Borderlands 2, Athena from the first Borderlands, Nisha, a sheriff of Lynchwood in Borderlands 2, and, unfortunately, Claptrap. Seriously, you can play as Claptrap. The gameplay in this game remains the same as previous editions of the Borderlands series. Since the story line takes place on the moon, the developers have added a low-gravity element to the game. Players will find themselves airborne for longer periods of time, jumping higher than ever, adding more dimension to

Keel-Hauled

the game play. You can also “hulk smash” the ground if you are high enough in the air, creating a small elemental shockwave depending on you equipment’s abilities. Energy, the added weapon class, gives you another way to watch enemies feel your wrath. The newest element, cryo, allows you to literally freeze your opponent in their tracks for a few seconds so you can, well, you know, kill them easier. The Pre-Sequel continues to utilize the cell-shading graphics the Borderland series is known for, giving the game the feeling of being in a comic book, with sound effects to match. Overall, Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel is a perfect fit in the Borderlands series, especially for those who have enjoyed doing random favors for the criminally insane; placing a soldier’s brain into a space rocket to see if his mind can steer it, killing random creatures that more often resemble beetles and ants. The game play is somewhat repetitive after hours of game play, but you become so involved in trying to find the most rare weapons and leveling up your abilities, you don’t notice; The perfect game for a maniac.

8.25/10

by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class James P. Bleyle

Photo by MC2 Scott Fenaroli

Photo by MC2 John P. Wagner

Photo by MC3 Shantece Gonzalez

Photo by MC3 Bryan Jackson

Around

Photo by MC2 Nicholas Brown

Photo by MC3 Bryan Jackson

Photo by MC3 James Vazquez

Photo by MC2 John P. Wagner

Photo by MC3 Eric Coffer

Team Vinson

Photo by MC2 Scott Fenaroli

Photo by MC3 James Vazquez

Photo by MC3 Bryan Jackson

Cranking: Finding the Silver Lining Story and photos by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class James Vazquez Navy Public Affairs Support Element West

erving as a food service attendant (FSA) commonly referred to as ‘cranking’ is something that most junior Sailors dread. The horror stories of working in a galley, a trash processing plant, or a scullery can lead to one cringing when the term ‘cranking’ is used. Logistics Specialist 3rd Class Porsha De La Torre, assigned to the guided-missile destroyer USS Dewey (DDG 105), has been able to look past the typical fears of cranking and see the silver lining of being an FSA. “I have been in the Navy for 3 years and checked aboard Dewey a year ago,” said De La Torre. “I knew it was only a matter of time before I would have to go cranking.” October 15 was that date. “At the time I started cranking, I was a little upset because I was learning the financial side of supply, which as a logistics specialist, is important,” said

Logistics Specialist 3rd Class Porsha De La Torre, a Food Service Attendant (FSA), washes dishes in the scullery of guided-missile destroyer USS Dewey (DDG 105).

Cryptologic Technician (Collection) 2nd Class Stephanie Gilley, a Food Service Attendant (FSA), serves dinner to the crew of guided-missile destroyer USS Dewey (DDG 105).

De La Torre. Unlike most FSAs, De La Torre saw an opportunity to excel instead of just buying her time. “While we do have a lot of duties, I have used the spare time in between to study for my Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist (ESWS) qualification,” said De La Torre. Along with more time for ESWS studying, De La Torre has found another positive in cranking. “Everyone has to eat,” said De La Torre. “Serving food in the chow line and working in the mess decks has allowed me to meet and socialize with my shipmates I wouldn’t normally see.”

Fire Controlman 3rd Class Dustin Kent, a Food Service Attendant (FSA), places eating utensils on the mess decks of guided-missile destroyer USS Dewey (DDG 105).

As De La Torre’s time as an FSA comes to an end, she thinks about her time cranking and offers Sailors advice. “The hours can be rough, but as long as you get into a routine and do your duties, it isn’t as rough as many people think,” said De La Torre. “Always look for things to do in between, and before you know it, you’ll be back working in your rate.” Dewey 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.

Logistics Specialist 3rd Class Porsha De La Torre, a Food Service Attendant (FSA), sets tables on the mess deck of guided-missile destroyer USS Dewey (DDG 105).

Deck Log Entry by QM3 Werinch By Quartermaster

3rd Class Jonathan Wenrich

On the first watch of the first day of the first month of two thousand fifteen, Carl Vinson sailed the Northern Arabian Gulf under a waning moon with many a star to be seen. The Quartermaster of the watch took note, plotted our position, and in the decklog this poem he wrote:

Quartermaster 3rd Class Jonathan Wenrich prepares his poem for entry into the deck log as the first entry for the New Year on the bridge of Carl Vinson. ( (Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Alex King)

“From what we know of time at sea the days and nights can get lonely. We stand watch with vigilant eyes from when sun sets until its rise. Just like these waves from trough to crest we’re temporary just like the rest. Unlike the others we strive for more our time is precious ‘fore wave hits shore. Through heavy winds and pitch and list our thoughts encompassed by those we miss. As hours turn to days and days to months we think of the place we came from once. We think of the people of our country. We think of how thankful we are to be free. As we continue to send Strength From the Sea.”

An F/A-18E Super Hornet from the Sunliners of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 81 makes the final launch of 2014 from the flight deck of aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class John Philip Wagner)

An F/A-18C Hornet from the Mighty Shrikes of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 94 launches from the flight deck of aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson marking the first strike operations of 2015. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Alex King)

An F/A-18C Hornet from the Mighty Shrikes of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 94 makes one of the final arrested recoveries of 2014 on the flight deck of aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class John Philip Wagner)

S-1: Unsung Heroes, Providing Logistic Support Aboard Vinson Story and photos by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Travis Alston

taffed by Logistic Specialists, USS Carl Vinson Supply Department S-1 division is responsible for processing and obtaining supplies, repair parts and hazardous materials required to support the ship’s operational obligations. The division is comprised of four major work areas; stock control, financial management, customer service and postal operations. Sailors assigned to stock control are responsible for more than 60,000 stock records of Navy working capital funding material, valued at $292 million. Financial management maintains operating target (OPTAR) accounts for the ship, and the air wing. Financial management Sailors also coordinate port visit arrangements for the ship while deployed. The customer service branch is responsible for causality reports (CASREPS) parts, open purchases and the management of government purchase cards. Last but definitely not least, the postal operations branch is responsible for the movement of more than 150,000 pounds of mail each month in support of over 5,000

Sailors. “We play a vital role in the ship’s ability to sustain operations while deployed,” said Logistics Specialist 2nd Class Steven Ruiz. “We are here to support the mission and take care of our loved ones back home. If not for the fuel we purchase, the parts we order, and the shipments we track, our aircraft couldn’t fly. My job is to make sure that required parts are received on time in order to continue supporting our fellow warfighter.” Ultimately nothing in the division or the ship can successfully function without the meticulous planning and execution of S-1’s financial management work center. “Finances is essential because we are responsible for the ship’s OPTAR accounts,” said Logistic Specialist 2nd Class Jasmine Ward, S-1’s financial manager. “These accounts fund the material and services needed for daily operations and maintenance ensuing the material readiness of the ship is sustained.” Ruiz added, S-1 Sailors are passionate in proving those wrong, who insist they sit behind desk all day and search the web. “You will see us in the hanger bay, moving parts, and sorting mail with

Logistic Specialist 3rd Class Selena Collins explains reports to Logistic Specialist 2nd Class Steven Ruiz in Vinson’s S-1 office.

our postal team during replenishments at sea,” said Ruiz. “We definitely embody the terms teamwork and customer service. We coordinate and work along with each department and division aboard the ship. Our job requires perfection. Inaccurate locations, prices or part numbers can prevent us from receiving required material.“ Ward not only plays a major role in her division’s success, but the ship’s as well. She serves as a departmental enlisted surface warfare specialist representative. “It’s important that Sailors are proficient at their jobs and have basic knowledge of the ship’s mission effectiveness,” said Ward. While Team Vinson is deployed supporting Operation Inherent Resolve, S-1 Sailors are continuously working to ensure the ship is fully stocked and equipped in supporting its mission. They try all means to have material ordered and delivered to the ship in a timely manner. There are some parts that required more urgency than other, but regardless the level of importance, S-1 Sailors are devoted to making sure the ship and its crew is able to remain effective and significant in port and out to sea.

Logistic Specialist 2nd Class Jasmine Ward assist a customer in Vinson’s S-1 office.

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ASK THE

CHIEF

AO1 Ladson, Joaquin AO1 Teeter, Jason CTR1 Stewart, Noel MA1 Cannon, Keith MM1 Kailikini, Michael AO2 Mcphee, Eugenio AO2 Yanders, Angelica AT2 George, Marchall EM2 Kinnibrugh,James EM2 Stapley, Amanda ET2 Cornwall, Craig HT2 Zembol, Patrick MC2 Guthrie, James MM2 Grant, Tena MM2 Taylor, Jeffrey STG2 Escobar, Matthew

What is most memorable about our operations in 2014? The most memorable part of our operations in 2014 is definitely the type of war effort we are here to support. The fight against ISIL has re-defined what it means to be “at war.” It is a very exciting time to be deployed.

What will you do differently in 2015? What resolutions do you have for your career in the Navy? I plan to embrace the Navy’s physical fitness emphasis in 2015. I have been a “just pass the PRT” guy for most of my career, but the focus on physical readiness on Carl Vinson and in the Navy is very infectious. I look forward to workout sessions and a healthier lifestyle.

2015 marks 35 years since Carl Vinson was launched, the Navy’s 240th birthday and the 122nd CPO birthday. With all that tradition, what does the future - 2015 - look like for the Navy? I think our Navy will continue to lead with traditions and set us apart from the rest of the world’s navies, from launching ships to benchmarks that this mighty war ship continues to set. Celebrating 122 years of heritage in the CPO Mess in 2015 will continue to highlight the U.S. Navy as the best the world has ever known.

NEWLY

QUALIFIED

CS3 Johnson, Aaron EM3 Magruder, Douglas ET3 Isham, Ryan ET3 Seo, Jay HM3 Mattea, Sam HM3 Schmitz, Colleen IC3 Newman, Joseph MC3 Bleyle, James MM3 Horton, Myron MM3 Piggee, Michea OS3 Litlepage, Mancil OS3 Parra, Yisell ABHAN Fleming, Nyasha AOAR Prieto, Michael HTFA Welch, Matthew

BM1 Howard, Cedric EM1 Somera, Laurence IC1 Perez, Pedro AZ2 McPhail, Okeema EM2 Brady, Timothy IT2 Canales, Adriane IT2 Roberts, Justin LS2 Ward, Jasmine QM2 Dubon, Daniel ABE3 Meeks, Jordan ABH3 Berubestevens, Katarina AO3 Henning, Paige AS3 Tagoe, Bridgett ET3 Meaney, Brittany IT3 Miller, William OS3 Woods, Lawrence

YN3 Carranza, Roberto AEAN Felixcruz, Jose ABEAN Brumfield, Steven ABEAN Evans, Jasper ABEAN Gibbons, Christian ABHAN Billiot, Xana ABHAN Ford, Rashaun AOAN Delgado, Robert AOAN Howell, Lasada ATAN Adkins, Sloan ATAN Guardado, Antonio ICSN Senior, Miranda SN Froom, Dillon AN Graff, Austin AN Shaw, David AN Terrazas, Louie

Team Vinson in the Spotlight

HM3 Colleen Schmitz Date: Dec. 29 Dept: Dental

MMFN Christopher Cruz-Romero Date: Dec. 30 Dept: Engineering

HM3 Schmitz coordinated, managed and instructed four cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) classes, training 24 Sailors. She also coordinated and managed a prophylaxis course that enabled nine other Corpsmen to earn their qualifications to perform dental cleanings, significantly enhancing the command’s dental health index. Schmitz’ efforts contribute to maintaining a 97 percent operational dental readiness and fleetleading 42 percent dental health index.

Fireman CruzRomero’s outstanding initiative and effort during repairs to the forward divisional door, steering unit number two, and preservation of aircraft elevator one were commendable. He assisted elevator support unit contractors with repairs to the long travel section of the forward divisional door. His hard work and dedication paid off when #2 HPU was restored to full operation. Finally, he spent more than 100 hours preserving aircraft elevator one, a space hand-picked by the CMC to present to MCPON.

DECKPLATE DI A LO G U E S What is your New Year Resolution?

AOAN Alex Johnson

ABEAN Joshua Farmer

ABE2 Aaron Jones

ABF3 Graciela Rico

EN2 Glenn Strode

“To better myself.”

“To quit smoking.”

“To be a better son to my father.”

“Buy a house.”

“Watch all of Game of Thrones.”

RP3 Edrick Hogan Date: Dec. 31 Dept: CRMD

ACAN Robert Golcher Date: Jan. 1 Dept: Operations

MM3 Emily Ramos Date: Jan. 2 Dept: Reactor

ABEAN Tashawn McGhee Date: Jan. 3 Dept: Security

RP3 Hogan over saw the expeditious screening and delivery of more than 2,000 holiday care packages during the month of December. Hogan ensured all holiday care packages received were quickly sorted, sender information recorded, and packages distributed to all ship and air wing. He took the lead in preparing more than 300 letters of appreciation to the generous Americans supporting Carl Vinson and CVW-17 Sailors, closing the loop between a grateful nation and its Sailors.

Airman Golcher has been a daily example to his new shipmates in OC Division. His upbeat attitude and willingness to learn his new rating is contagious. He has tackled the demanding training syllabus of a first command air traffic controller with a smile on his face. His progression as a carrier controlled approach (CCA) final controller trainee is well ahead of the NATOPS allotted training time which is a direct result of this personal drive and attitude.

MM3 Ramos was responsible for the coordination and completion of the 2A demineralizer resin replacement which restored the water treatment system to full capacity. Additionally, she coordinated the completion of two primary leak checks in preparation for planned incremental availability 2015. Her performance as charging station Watch during propulsion plant drills has led to improved grades from the propulsion plant drill team.

Airman McGhee led six Sailors in all aspects of Law Enforcement and Force Protection as Primary Reaction Force Team Leader. She was directly responsible for 17 successful alarm responses, 13 fire/ flooding responses, and four medical emergency responses. Airman McGhee was instrumental in the protection of Carl Vinson during our latest port visit to Dubai. She, also led a watch team in patrolling the ship on the look out for and suspicious activity while projecting a hard target for any potential terrorist activity.

Happy New Year Team Vinson! I’m pleased to hear how much fun the crew had at the New Year celebration. Thank you to the entire crew for making this event successful, I had a blast. Although we are in a new year, your MWR staff is dedicated to providing bigger and better events. If you have any suggestions to make our programs better, please let your divisional MWR representative know or utilize the comment box outside the MWR ticket office. Congratulations to the winners of the Dubai Photo Contest: Culture: 1st – Lt j.g. Friedlander 2nd - LS3 Pan Food: 1st - ADCS Swartz 2nd - LS3 Pan Fun: 1st - AM3 Aguilera 2nd - ADCS Swartz Landscape: 1st - OSSR Smith 2nd - AN Shaw

New Year’s Reality Check Another year, another chance To start our lives anew; This time we’ll leap old barriers To have a real breakthrough. We’ll take one little step And then we’ll take one more, Our unlimited potential We’ll totally explore. We’ll show off all our talents Everyone will be inspired; (Whew! While I’m writing this, I’m getting very tired.) We’ll give up all bad habits; We’ll read and learn a lot, All our goals will be accomplished, Sigh...or maybe not. Oh well, Happy New Year anyway!

1st Pace Culture

2nd Place Culture

1st Place Food

2nd Place Food 1st Place Fun

1st Place Landscape

2nd Place Landscape

2nd Place Fun

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REQUEST A MOVIE!

IN TIME THE IMPOSSIBLE LIFE OF PI MORTAL INSTRUMENTS: CITY OF BONES NOW YOU SEE ME IN TIME THE IMPOSSIBLE 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

TUESDAY

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42’-THE JACKIE ROBINSON STORY HOPE SPRINGS MEET THE FOCKERS ONE DIRECTION: THIS IS US PARENTAL GUIDANCE 42’-THE JACKIE ROBINSON STORY HOPE SPRINGS MEET THE FOCKERS ONE DIRECTION: THIS IS US PARENTAL GUIDANCE HOPE SPRINGS

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FULL METAL JACKET G.I JANE G.I. JOE RETALLIATION PARKER RUNNER RUNNER FULL METAL JACKET G.I JANE G.I. JOE RETALLIATION PARKER RUNNER RUNNER

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DARK SKIES JACK REACHER LOCKOUT PARKLAND THE SECRET LIFE OF WALTER MITTY DARK SKIES JACK REACHER LOCKOUT PARKLAND THE SECRET LIFE OF WALTER MITTY DARK SKIES

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IN THE LINE OF FIRE LOOPER OFFICE SPACE 50/50 THE RUM DIARY IN THE LINE OF FIRE LOOPER OFFICE SPACE 50/50 THE RUM DIARY

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THE HUNGER GAMES THE HUNGER GAMES: CATCHING FIRE LES MISERABLES THE MONUMENTS MEN SPARKLE THE HUNGER GAMES THE HUNGER GAMES: CATCHING FIRE LES MISERABLES THE MONUMENTS MEN

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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) OUT OF AFRICA

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47 RONIN THE LONE RANGER MONEYBALL THE NOTEBOOK ONE FOR THE MONEY 47 RONIN THE LONE RANGER MONEYBALL THE NOTEBOOK ONE FOR THE MONEY

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TYLER PERRY’S TEMPTATION 300: RISE OF AN EMPIRE METALLICA: THROUGH THE NEVER SINISTER THE TOWN TYLER PERRY’S TEMPTATION 300: RISE OF AN EMPIRE METALLICA: THROUGH THE NEVER SINISTER THE TOWN TYLER PERRY’S TEMPTATION

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THE CROODS FRANKENWEENIE FREE BIRDS JOHNNY ENGLISH REBORN JURASSIC PARK THE CROODS FRANKENWEENIE FREE BIRDS JOHNNY ENGLISH REBORN JURASSIC PARK LORD OF THE RINGS: FELLOWSHIP OF THE RING

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WHITE HOUSE DOWN FOOTLOOSE (2011) STEP UP ALL IN WE BOUGHT A ZOO GLORY WHITE HOUSE DOWN FOOTLOOSE (2011) STEP UP ALL IN WE BOUGHT A ZOO GLORY WHITE HOUSE DOWN

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