Voice 02nov14

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NOVEMBER 2, 2014

VOL 5 ISSUE 29

Terror at Sea


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Table of

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Contents

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PUBLISHER

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LCDR KYLE RAINES Public Affairs Officer

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EXECUTIVE EDITORS

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CAPT KARL THOMAS Commanding Officer

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

3 Scary Karaoke...........................................................................................................................................4 A Glimpse into Cancer, Chemo and Courage ............................................................................5 Q&A with MMC Fletcher: Fan Coil....................................................................................................8 Machinist’s Mates: the Driving Force of the Ship.......................................................................9 National American Indian Heritage Month...............................................................................12 Train Like We Protect.........................................................................................................................17 More Than an Organization, We are Family.................................................................................

More Than an Organization, We are Family Story by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Travis Alston

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he underlying principle of USS Carl Vinson’s (CVN 70) Coalition of Sailors Against Destructive Decisions (CSADD) is simple; a Sailor is more likely to listen to advice from their peer than their superior. This is one of the many principles that Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Fuel) 3rd Class Jalisa Patrick, Vinson CSADD president and Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) 3rd Class Alexis Scott, CSADD vice president, take to heart.

Media Operations Leading Chief Petty Officer

JUNIOR EDITORS

MC1(SW/AW) RYAN TABIOS MC2(SW/AW) TRAVIS ALSTON

GRAPHICS/LAYOUT

Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) 3rd Class Alexis Scott, CSADD vice president and Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Fuel) 3rd Class Jalisa Patrick, Vinson CSADD president pose for a photo. Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class George M. Bell.

MC2 MICHAEL H. LEE MCSN CODY HOWELL

STAFF WRITERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS

MC2(SW/AW) JOHN P. WAGNER MC2(SW) NICK BROWN MC2(SW/AW) SCOTT FENAROLI MC2(SW) ALEX KING MC3(SW) SHANTECE GONZALEZ MC3(SW) CURTIS D. SPENCER MC3 ERIC COFFER MC3 JAMES VAZQUEZ MCSN JAMES P. BLEYLE

The Carl Vinson Voice is an internal document produced by and for the crew of the USS Carl Vinson and their families. Its content does not necessarily reflect the offical view of the U.S. government or the Departments of Defense or the Navy and do not imply any endorsement thereby.

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America’s Favorite Carrier

“CSADD is a peer-to-peer mentoring group designed to have a positive influence on junior Sailors and the way they behave and conduct themselves,” said Patrick. “The Navy has a rank structure to ensure that senior leadership guide and direct junior Sailors, but in my opinion, some things are received better coming from a peer.” Geared toward E-5 and below Sailors aged 18 to 25, CSADD began as a grass-roots level social group at Commander, Navy Region MidAtlantic. The idea spread quickly to other commands due to its popularity among Sailors, and quickly became a Navy-wide program. CSADD Sailors reinforce both the core principles of the Navy and the 21st Century Sailor and Marine initiative.

“We aim to educate Sailors on how to make smart decisions,” said Scott. “We try to encourage Sailors to do the right thing and that includes getting in and out-of-rate qualifications.” Similar to other Navy organizations, the executive committee consists of a president, vice president, secretary, treasurer, and master-at-arms. The general committee members of the organization are responsible for encouraging membership from qualifying Sailors assigned of the command. But, unlike other Navy organizations, CSADD allows Sailors that have been in unfortunate situations to join. “We understand that people are going to make mistakes,” said Patrick. “But it is our job to make sure that we encourage and inspire those Sailors.” Scott added that CSADD plans to put a hard focus on training and educating the crew concerning decision-making, through various types of training. “My major focus right now is training,” said Scott. “Sailors should be educated on the positive and negative outcomes of their decisions. A lot of people are distraught over things that are out of their control, so this ‘family’ is here to help them excel and achieve great things.” To become a member of Vinson’s CSADD, a Sailor can attend bi-weekly

CSADD executive committee members pose for a group photo. Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class George M. Bell.

meetings and pay the required dues of $30, which will get them a CSADD t-shirt and a year membership, or contact Patrick or Scott. “Information awareness is an issue for us right now,” said Scott. “If you don’t know that this organization exists, you won’t know what it offers. We encourage everyone to come out and hear that we have to offer. This entire crew is a coalition of Sailors against destructive decisions.” CSADD plays an active role on the ship and in the community too. “We hope to have the opportunity to conduct community relations projects in port,” Scott said. “This is important to us because we want to show foreign and local communities that…we are on ‘America’s Favorite Carrier,’ so our ultimate goal is to be the Navy’s favorite CSADD team.”

CSADD members discuss future plans during a meeting. Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Travis Alston.

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Photo by MC2 Scott Fenaroli

VINSON’S F R I DA Y FRIGHTS

A Glimpse into Cancer, Chemo and Courage Story and photos courtesy of Chief Mass Communication Specialist Jackey Smith, Office of the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy

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Photo by MC2 Alex King

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Photo by MC2 Alex King

rew members aboard Carl Vinson attend “Scaryoke”, a Halloween-themed karaoke party hosted by Carl Vinson’s Morale, Welfare and Recreation division Friday, Oct. 31. MWR also held a door-decorating contest. These events celebrated the first of eight holidays Carl Vinson Sailors are scheduled to miss while deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.

Photo by MC2 Scott Fenaroli

Photo by MC2 John P. Wagner

Photo by MC2 Scott Fenaroli

Photo by MC2 Scott Fenaroli

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Photo by MC2 James Guthrie

Photo by MC2 Scott Fenaroli

am Chief Petty Officer Jackey Smith. I was asked to share my breast cancer journey a few weeks ago and I quickly agreed. However, as the deadline grew closer, I found myself putting off writing about my experience with this ugly disease called breast cancer. Showing this vulnerability isn’t comfortable for me. Being an open chapter for the world is a bit scary, but with prayer and after talking with my husband Charles, I knew that I could not remain silent. I know that if sharing my experience prompts one person to go to the doctor when their body feels out of whack, I am doing the right thing. My body had been feeling out of whack for months, yet I put it off and it could have killed me. I’d noticed a tiny lump within my left breast during the fall of 2012. I’d also just gotten a job as the Public Affairs Chief to the Office of the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON)... sweet gig! I was excited for my next assignment, but also worried about this tiny lump. So I decided to get a referral from my Primary Care Manager (PCM) to get a mammogram. It came back unclear and I was referred to have an additional mammogram completed. It came back normal. I was told that breasts can be lumpy or dense and I still had almost a decade before I needed to start getting annual mammograms. I left the breast care clinic with a sigh of relief and prepared to start a new chapter in my military career. Let’s fast forward to the spring of 2014. I’d been working for the MCPON for almost two years; Charles was geo-bacheloring from Norfolk, Va., and preparing for an upcoming deployment. My sitter was basically raising my two boys, Jerry and Kameron. I’d leave before they were up and come home long after they’d had dinner and were preparing to sleep. My physical fitness routine was slim to none. I’d easily gained 20 pounds and I was living on fast or processed food. My work/life balance was all messed up, but in my mind I was, “getting by.” I’d noticed some small bruising on my arms and thighs but that’s normal right? Women spend half their time getting bruises and the other half wondering

how they got there. I’d noticed a tingling sensation in my left arm, but made a silly excuse for it. “I get tingling sensations in my feet when I run longer than five miles, so the tingling in my arm is nothing.” I was extremely tired but I thought, “The long hours and stress of dual military living apart is just wearing me out, and I have a long, crazy commute to work each day!” I convinced myself that I was fine and even told myself, “I’m a Chief Petty Officer, hard is what I do, so these little symptoms are nothing!” I pressed on. One evening before Charles deployed, we were playing around and he noticed a small lump on my left breast. He advised me to get it checked out. I

smiled and said, “Ok.” In the back of my mind I had the “comfort” of knowing I’d been proactive before and everything came back normal, so taking time off work to get myself checked out again was nonsense talk. Getting another mammogram...no thanks! Weeks went by, Charles deployed, and life went on. I had planned a birthday dinner at the beginning of July with a few of my girlfriends. I was so excited to see these ladies and catch up. As I was preparing for the evening, I noticed the lump had gotten a bit bigger and harder than when Charles had mentioned it to me. It was weird, but not a focus point for me, Continued on page 6

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Continued from page 5

again resting on the “comforts” of the past tests. Besides, it was my birthday, my friends were around me and so how could anything be wrong. The following Monday, I told a coworker about the lump, she told my boss’ wife about the lump, and after a video shoot, my boss’ wife asked me how things were going. I knew she knew. I knew my co-worker had mentioned it to her. I could just feel it in my gut. I tried assuring her that I was fine, but she insisted that I make an appointment with my PCM. I smiled and nodded. Time away from my desk was a no-go in my mind. A couple days past and everything was back on track, when the next thing I know, I have my co-worker standing at my desk telling me that she’s not leaving until I make an appointment with my PCM. I was annoyed and frustrated. What’s the big deal? I WAS ALRIGHT! “Fine,” I said. I got up and walked down to the health clinic. I saw my PCM who immediately called the Breast Care Clinic at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center (WRNMC) to have me seen. The look on my doctor’s face was definitely not the look a patient wants to see. It was a “something is not right and I am not sure if I can get her to the Breast Care Clinic soon enough!” look. She advised me to leave the clinic and

head over to WRNMC , do not pass go, and do not collect two hundred dollars! I went back up to my office, finished our weekly scheduling meeting, and then headed over to the hospital. Once there, I walked into the cold room and saw the machine that was going to suck my breasts into it and take pictures of them...yay. The technician put some metal magnet type things in places on my breasts, positioned my arms, poked, prodded, squeezed, and snapped away. She left the room with a defeated smile and another doctor entered shortly after. This doctor came in, spoke slowly to me, and said that she’d like to schedule me for more testing. I thought, “Ugh, more time out of work, just what I need.” The next few weeks became a whirlwind blur. Nothing is wrong, you

are too young to have breast cancer, I told myself. I had more mammograms, ultrasounds, failed aspirations, and biopsies. My instincts were screaming that something was wrong, yet I had convinced myself that every test would come back normal. I began a new normal on Friday, July 25, 2014. I was driving when my cell phone rang. It was a radiologist from WRNMC. He read my diagnosis to me. I had Stage Two invasive breast cancer and it’d spread to at least one lymph node. “Ok,” I replied. “Ma’am, do you have any questions?” “No,” I said. I was in shock, I had my boys in the car, my husband was on some ship in Italy

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or Spain, and I told myself that there was no crying, no breaking down. The radiologist gave me a phone number to my nurse navigator. She was assigned to help navigate me through the process of developing a treatment plan. I called her after I got off the phone with the radiologist. She informed me that the breast cancer I was diagnosed with was aggressive and that the team would develop an equally aggressive plan to get me “hopefully 30 more years.” She sounded sad. I got upset. There was no way I was going to accept only 30 more years of life! I have at least 60 good ones in me! An additional thought that came over me was how I’d been to war, I’d seen some crazy crap, I’ve fought in unfamiliar lands but now war was in my own body. I didn’t have time for stupid cancer! I was making calls to line up my next gig..sea duty in sunny San Diego! God laughed at my plans though. I told God, “I know you will never give me more than I can handle, but really, you have a sense of humor!” I began my first round of six rounds of chemotherapy Aug. 14. I’ve had random thoughts about how in order to heal, I have to inject this poison into my body that fights both the bad and the good blood cells. I’ve come to terms with the fact that after the chemo, I will have a double mastectomy, radiation, reconstruction surgery, hormonal drugs for a year, and five years of oral pills. My hair began falling out at the end of August. It started coming out in small

handfuls so I decided to have my guys give me a haircut. My youngest gathered my hair into a ponytail, my oldest began cutting it and my husband finished the big chop. The ear length cut lasted a few days. Though I still had some of my hair, Charles and I went wig shopping. I don’t like wigs, but decided on one. I cried in the wig shop when it was time to give my insurance information. It was all getting too real. I decided to stop at a local hair salon and get a professional haircut that resembled what my son, Kameron described as a “Miley Cyrus” cut. It was short and sassy. We took a trip to visit family in West Virginia in early September and on our way back, I noticed that my hair shedding was just too much. I asked Charles to cut all of my hair off the night we returned from visiting family. It was an emotional moment for me. I cried; we had to take breaks; my husband would kiss my head as he ran the clippers over it. Sam Smith’s song, “Stay with me” and Mandisa’s “Overcomer” played as I saw my short hair get shorter, shorter, and eventually bald. At the end of the

session, I felt loved by the men that mattered most. We got through it. I’ve recently finished my third round of chemotherapy. I’m halfway done with this poison producing medicine! Hooray! Oct. 1 I stood with other amazing women

on the Today show to kick off Breast Cancer Awareness Month, but the most important feeling that I’ve come to love is that I believe I’m educating others to understand the importance of early detection. I could have kept putting off the doctor’s visits to the point that I was Stage Four. I could have kept telling the little voice in my head to “shut the hell up, I have to be at work!” I’m thankful for my loved ones who pushed me to seek medical attention. Cancer changes us, there’s no doubt about that, but it’s up to us to decide what that change will mean to us in our life and who we will become as a result. So far, this journey has allowed me to experience the highest of highs and lowest of lows. It’s taken me on an emotional rollercoaster that I didn’t think I’d ever be ready for. I’m a control freak and this journey has made me stop, ask for help, allow myself to be vulnerable, and has brought me so much closer in my faith, with my friends, and appreciate the love I receive from my husband and our children. It’s also ignited a flame that I refuse to let be burned out, a calling to the young women and men (because yes, men can get breast cancer) in the Navy who often ignore the warning signs that our bodies provide. We are provided with some of the best medical care, yet make

excuses to avoid anything that may take you out of your work center. I encourage young women to do self-breast exams and immediately make appointments if any abnormalities arise. Early detection saves lives. For the young women and men on the breast cancer journey, remember that scars are stories, reminders of good days and bad. They are reflections back on a journey filled with vulnerability and strength. Cancer and the scars it leaves don’t take away your spirit or your beauty. If anything, it frees them for the world to see! Remember that you are beautiful, cared for, and you are going to be ok! I’d like to thank all of the support I’ve received from my co-workers, friends, associates, and folks I don’t even know! I’ve developed a social media support network that is unbelievably amazing and has often pulled me through some down and tough days. Lastly, I thank my husband who was uprooted from his deployment to be assigned near me so that he can hold my hand through all of this. My sons have supported me so much and I’m so blessed. One day, Kameron asked me why I have cancer. I replied, “I don’t know but God will take care of it.” He followed up with, “Yep, God will take care of you!” And he has, through a network of his earth-living angels.

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Q&A with

MMC

Fletcher

Story by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman James P. Bleyle

Q: What are fan coils and cooling coils? A: The fan coil assembly draws air downward from the inlet, through air filters and across the electrostatic precipitator. The air is then cooled when it passes through the chilled water cooling coil, and sent upward through the fan motor section, before being discharged to the supply outlet.

cooling coils and clear out the drains. Then we vacuum all the water out.

Q: Why is it important that we have them? A: Machinery or equipment operating for an extended period of time produces a lot of heat, which can damage it and leave us without the equipment. One method of removing that heat is to cool the space that the equipment is in, so it’s very important to keep our FCUs and CCs operational.

Q: How much of this maintenance is preventable? A: There are periodic checks that we perform to prevent equipment failure, or to catch it before it breaks down.

Q: How many hours a week are spent maintaining FCUs and CCs? A: We will perform maintenance on three to four units a day with each taking about eight to ten hours. We spend an average of 48 to 60 hours a week on maintenance. Q: What type of maintenance is performed on FCUs and CCs? A: That depends on what kind of maintenance is needed. Typically we have to tag out the unit, clean or replace the filter, vacuum the inlet side of the plenum, power-wash the

Q: How much does it cost per year to maintain FCUs and CCs? A: It costs over 1.2 million dollars a year to repair and replace FCUs. We also clean them, balance them, and perform pre-heater repairs and replacements.

Q: Is there anything that puts extra strain on FCUs? A: Right now the biggest thing that is affecting our fan coil units is a lack of proper maintenance. I see a lot of dirt buildup in the coils, and corrosion in the drains, which causes some units to flood out. We may also be having some issues with the supply air being brought in from outside. If our preheaters are blocked, it constricts the air flow into the units, causing them to condense more which can cause water to fill up the unit or possibly bring in dirt and debris which will clog the drains. It may be a simple task to do the maintenance, but understanding how the air is coming into the unit is crucial to understanding the issues we may be having with them.

Fan Coil

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the Driving Force of the Ship

Story by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Curtis D. Spencer Photos by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class John P. Wagner

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achinist’s Mate is one of the most diverse rates in the Navy,” said Navy Chief Machinist’s Mate Cleveland Freeman. “Our Machinist’s Mates work on everything from main propulsion boilers, nuclear reactors, air-conditioning units, galley equipment, aircraft and weapons elevators to underway replenishment equipment. You name it; there is probably a Machinist’s Mate behind it.” According to Freeman, Navy Machinist’s Mates (MM) serve as a driving force in keeping the ship operational and deployment ready–contributing to multiple crucial day-today operations. Established for more than 130 years, Machinist’s Mates are tasked with evolutions that have a significant impact on mission success.

Machinist’s Mates aboard Carl Vinson conduct evening muster in the hangar deck to discuss daily taskings.

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o keep the ship in fighting shape, air conditioning is crucial and our 312 fan coil units (FCU) and cooling coils (CC) play vital roles in keeping equipment temperatures out of the red. The Voice sat down with Chief Machinist’s Mate Mark Fletcher, engineering department’s maintenance quality assurance leading chief petty officer, for a closer look on how FCUs and CCs work and are maintained.

Machinist’s Mates:

Machinist Mate Fireman Logan Jameson performs scheduled maintenance on a fan coil aboard Carl Vinson. Photo by Chief Machinist Mate Mark Fletcher.

From basic operations to the most complex of shipboard endeavors, MMs are sure to have played a role in the execution of the evolution. Formerly known as the finisher rating, MMs were instituted in 1880. They were responsible for the maintenance, operation and repair of shipboard propulsion equipment, auxiliary machinery and related gear. With the introduction of nuclear power, MMs diversified and were required to have an understanding of the reactor steam plant chemistry and radiological controls. “To know that I am doing something that helps the entire crew is rewarding,” said Machinist’s Mate 3rd Class Anthony Lino. “It is pretty cool that we get to see the massive main engines that propel the ship through the water and operate so many moving parts first-hand.”

Machinist’s Mate 3rd Class Kexian Li, left, and Machinist’s Mate 3rd Class Duane Hilumeyer monitor accumulator steam pressure on a catapult aboard Carl Vinson.

As with any job that works with and services large moving parts, MMs face their share of danger. However, through attention to detail, job proficiency and team work, they are able to consistently succeed. “There is always the possibility of fires or steam line ruptures,” Lino said. “We are good at what we do, very well trained and we pay attention to what we are doing.” “When I am at work I learn something new every day,” Lino added. “As you progress in the rate, you learn the ability to identify a problem in the machinery by sound alone.” In Lino’s opinion Machinist’s Mates do an important job for the Navy. Their multifaceted job keeps Carl Vinson mission ready at all times, without them we may not enjoy the comforts that make ship life manageable. “Without us there would be no clean water, no electricity, no propulsion,” Lino said. “It’s a fun job; we enjoy what we do day in and day out.”

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Photo by MC2 John P. Wagner

Photo by MC3 James Vazquez

Photo by MC3 Eric Coffer

Photo by MC2 Scott Fenaroli

Photo by MC2 Scott Fenaroli Photo by MC2 John P. Wagner

Photo by MC3 James Vazquez

Photo by MC3 Matthew A. Carlyle

Photo by MC2 John P. Wagner

Photo by MC2 Alex King

Photo by MC2 Scott Fenaroli

Around Team Vinson

Photo by MC2 Alex King Photo by MC2 Alex King

Photo by MC2 Scott Fenaroli

Photo by MC2 Alex King

Photo by MC2 Alex King

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Photo by MC2 John P. Wagner

Photo by MC2 Scott Fenaroli

Photo by MC2 Scott Fenaroli

Photo by MC3 Kristopher Haley

Photo by MC2 John P. Wagner

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Carl Vinson Reflects on American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Story by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Curtis D. Spencer

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he crew of USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) joins the nation in celebrating the 24th annual American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month, observed Nov. 1 through Nov. 30. This year’s theme is “Native Pride and Spirit: Yesterday Today and Forever.” During this month of observance, events are aimed at spotlighting the contributions that Native Americans and Alaska Natives made to the history of the United States. “Native Americans are strong, proud people,” said Yeoman 1st Class Jessica Ellerbe, a decedent of the Muscogee tribe. “It means a lot to be able to celebrate the traditions and customs being practiced to this day. It means more to be able to share them with the crew.” The determination of the Native American people is evident by the founding of this month. The struggle for recognition was nearly a 90-year battle. In 1914, Red Fox James, of the Blackfoot tribe, traveled President George H. W. Bush signs into law the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act Nov. 16, 1990. Photo courtesy of George Bush Presidential Library and Museum.

Red Fox James poses for photo. Photo courtesy of the Library of Congress.

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Reverend Sherman Coolidge poses for photo. Photo courtesy of the Anthropological Archives, Smithsonian Institution.

the country in an effort to gain support for a day to honor American Indians. He convinced 24 state governments to support his cause, but in spite of his work there would be no national spotlight. A year later, American Indians proved their persistence for national recognition. Arapaho tribe decedent, Reverend Sherman Coolidge would petition the country to proclaim a day to honor his people. Unfortunately, His plea would fail and no agreement would be reached. For Sailors like Aerographer’s Mate 2nd Class Erwin J. Begay, decedent of the Navajo tribe, learning of Coolidge’s situation was proof that his ancestors were determined to have their culture celebrated and acknowledged, regardless of their tribe or differences. “I saw first-hand growing up how dedicated to our history Native Americans are,” said. “Although many of us may be from different tribes, we are united for causes like this.” In 1924 Congress would pass the Indian Citizenship Act, officially recognizing American Indians as citizens of the United States. However no initiative was taken to create a day to honor these citizens. Finally, in 1986 Congress would pass a proclamation designating a week in November as American Indian Week. Four years later, President George H. W. Bush would label the entire month of November as National American Indian Heritage Month.

“I am honored that Native Americans are being celebrated,” Begay said. “I know how important our history is and I am grateful we have the opportunity to celebrate our legacy.” Since its inception, the month has grown to incorporate the specific influence of Alaska Natives as well. American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month is more than just a celebration of an ethnicity and culture. The festivities seek to educate audiences on the heritage, history, art, and traditions of American Indians. “I remember watching the pow-wows and watching my father participate in other ceremonies,” said Operations Specialist 1st Class Monet Hazelton, a decedent of the Apache tribe. “It’s a different type of heritage than people are used to. I want to share my experiences and traditions with my Shipmates.” Hazelton added that the strength born from those traditions may inspire others. “Every November we celebrate our willingness to keep going,” Hazelton said. “No matter how old or how young a Native American is, there is a willingness and determination to keep the heritage alive and going strong.” In recognition of American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month, Carl Vinson’s American Heritage Observance Committee (AHOC) is hostng a cake-cutting ceremony in the aft mess decks on Nov. 12.

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IC3(SW) Lesley Morrow

AO3 Kenneth Chapman

AT3 Darius Carter

ABF3 Camren Walling

ITSA Jonathan Knudsen

BMSN Tytteanna Franklin

IT3 William Hollingsworth

Date: Oct. 27 Dept: Training

Date: Oct. 28 Dept: Weapons

Date: Oct. 29 Dept: AIMD

Date: Oct. 30 Dept: Air

Date: Oct. 31 Dept: Combat Systems

Date: Nov. 1 Dept: Deck

Date: Nov. 1 Dept: CVW-17

IC3 Morrow organizes and processes ITT drill packages for all of the general quarters (GQ) drills. She also builds the timelines and powerpoint briefs and presents them to the XO during the ITT brief held prior to GQ. Morrow served as the ship’s debt management monitor (DMM), monitoring more than 1,700 government travel card accounts. She is also one of four defense travel system (DTS) travel clerks aboard.

AO3 Chapman spends countless hours preparing, updating and maintaining149 qualification and certification records. His keen insight and attention to detail resulted in the certification and recertification of 54 ordnance team members, two ordnance team leaders and five ordnance quality assurance safety observers. Chapman’s actions led to G-3 division achieving a 99 percent qualification rate, greatly increasing Weapons Department’s readiness and sustainability.

AT3 Carter’s superior performance in the testing, troubleshooting and repair of three expeditious repair (EXREP) night digital data indicators (NDDI) was instrumental in mission success. Carter’s “can do” spirit and unsurpassed technical skills returned three assets to ready-forissue and directly impacted the readiness of the Carrier Air Wing 17 and Carl Vinson team.

ABF3 Walling displayed outstanding leadership during an underway replenishment. When the fuel sample connection for the aft JP-5 receiving station cracked under pressure, Walling immediately ordered “cease pumping” to prevent further damage and fuel spillage. After surveying the damage, he ensured all safety and tag-out procedures were in place before completing repairs, eventually restoring the fuel station to full operation in minimal time.

ITSA Knudsen processes over 200 messages daily, and ensures the transmission of port-call messages, RAS requests, CASREPs, and American Red Cross messages in a timely manner. He also drafts and processes 65 communication reports (COMSPOTs), ensuring prompt restoration for data links and critical command and control circuits. He has hit the deck running, qualifying basic DC, NAVMACS operator and COMSEC user.

BMSN Franklin spent numerous hours on the helm in port aft steering during restricted and maneuvering doctrine and five strait transits, to include the Straits of Malacca, Straits of Hormuz, Surigao Straits, Bohol Straits and Balabac Straits. As 1st division zone inspection coordinator, she recorded and corrected 100 zone inspection discrepancies and fixed 50 TSIMS hits in nine zones. Franklin is an outstanding example of Honor, Courage and Commitment.

IT3 Hollingsworth helped manage NIPRNET and SIPRNET accounts for more than 1,400 air wing personnel. As the network administrator he released more than 12 radio messages, completed more than 50 trouble calls for CVW-17 personnel, set up and installed ten workstations with software designed to improve mission readiness and set up more than eight video teleconferences for the air wing in support of critical operational briefs.

DECKPLATE DI A LO G U E S

What is your favorite part of Halloween?

AO1 (SW/AW) Hamilton Smith

CS3 (SW) Qwineysha Wheeler

YN3 Christina Regalado

PR3 Benjamin Farnsworth

ADAN Justin Hlavacek

“I love watching all the scary movies.”

“I would have to say, going to haunted houses.”

“Taking my niece trick or treating.”

“I love the candy-filled care packages my lovely wife sends me.”

“Getting to be anything you want, and people give you candy for it!”

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?? ? ? ?

review

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Travis Alston

B

a. Get a full back mural tattoo, underway in the aft storeroom with a gun he made on watch out of spare parts and sewing needles, powered from a battle lantern, using stamp pad ink, from a guy who had never given a tattoo before. b. Try to replace a gasket in a watertight hatch 30 minutes before a spot check with the DCA, because he thought he could make the joint tighter.

efore my tour at Naval Station Rota, Spain, I had no interest in soccer. To me, it was meaningless and boring. When a Spanish co-worker would have games on TV in our office, I would demand that he change it to something a bit more “American.” But it was unavoidable; I was going to have to learn about their favorite past time. After a while, I began to enjoy watching soccer and eventually decided to try out the EA sports soccer video game simulator. Released in September 2013, FIFA 2014 offers the most realistic soccer experience, short of watching it live. This game contains more than 60 stadiums with 32 fully licensed leagues, containing over 600 clubs and over 16,000 players. With this much content, you can play it for extended amounts of time without getting bored. FIFA 14 features various modes including an ultimate team mode, which allows players to build their own team from real-world players and staff. The teams can be used to compete in both online and offline tournaments and seasons. As users play, they can earn the opportunity to improve their team, in the form of coins. Each game players earn a certain amount of coins depending on whether the team wins or loses. Overall, this game brings a level of authenticity never seen and sets new standards for player control and stadium atmosphere. For those familiar with previous installments, the game doesn’t ask the player to relearn key skills. The changes from the previous year’s title made FIFA more engaging, welcoming, and attractive; ultimately for a better and stronger experience. Although entertaining, FIFA 14 like most EA games still has its share of deficiencies. Regardless the skill level, computer opponents are virtually indefensible and the gamer is forced to modify the game’s AI sliders. Returning fans may have to adjust through the first five to ten games, but those who persevere will be rewarded with perhaps the most realistic soccer experience to date. This game is a must have. Inexperienced players like myself who occasionally forget what off sides is will get a kick out of the heartpumping excitement of being in your opponent’s territory and scoring a GOAL!

4. Why don’t Chiefs like the phrase “Roger That?”

7.5/10

ASK THE

CHIEF 1. What advice would you give to a junior officer, just reporting to his/her first ship? Work hard at your primary job and learn to identify the strengths of the Sailors who work for you. Work with your LCPO on how to maximize your Sailors’ productivity. 2. Why do Chiefs drink so much coffee? A can of Monster doesn’t look right in an old man’s hand.

?

3. What is the dumbest thing you’ve ever seen a Sailor do?

Train Like We Protect

Story by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Bryan Jackson, USS Gridley

S

ailors aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Gridley (DDG 101) recently participated in the Force Protection University (FPU). FPU is designed to qualify Sailors in various aspects of the Naval Security force. Consisting of the Security Reaction Force Team MemberBasic (SRFT-B) and Navy Security Force Sentry (NSFS) courses, FPU also includes an M9 service pistol, M16A3 rifle, and oleoresin capsicum (OC) spray qualification course. Participants also learned the meaning of deadly force and its place in the use of force continuum. “Sailors get the opportunity to qualify on small-arms weapons and learn to use non-lethal weapons and defensive tactics to ensure they can defend themselves and others,” said Master-at-Arms 1st Class Brandee Sandoval, FPU training supervisor. “They learn about the combat mindset, situational awareness and their role in the ship’s force protection team, regardless of rate.” Although all portions of FPU are challenging, the OC spray is what most participants dread. After being sprayed Sailors navigated through a series of tasks and practiced non-lethal weapons and defensive tactics. Sailors described the experience of the OC spray as ‘feeling like fire was poured directly into their eyes’. “You can’t see, you can’t breath and you feel weak. This makes the course ten times more difficult,” said Sonar Technician (Surface) Seaman Jordan Moran. The training serves as a driving force for Sailors like Sandoval. “I took a greater interest in anti-terrorism and force protection after having personally witnessed the aftermath of the attack on guided-missile destroyer USS Cole (DDG 67),” Sandoval said. “I enlisted during 9/11, and I crossrated from Machinist’s Mate to Master-at-Arms to further that goal.”

Airman Apprentice Carlos Natal, left, gives task commands to Fire Controlman 2nd Class Joseph Webb while under the effects of oleoresin capsicum (OC) during the OC spray certification section of Force Protection University (FPU) aboard Arleigh Burke-class guidedmissile destroyer USS Gridley (DDG-101).

Sandoval added that every Sailor should be able to defend themselves and their ship, if the time comes, to ensure they make it back home safly to family and friends. The training becomes even more important when fewer ships are underway. “We are out here by ourselves sometimes and need to be a ‘hard target.’ The only way we can do that is through training,” she said. “It’s of the utmost importance whether we are pulling into an overseas port for liberty, out to sea conducting missions, or pier side, we need to have and maintain our vigilance,” said Sandoval.

Keel-Hauled by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman James P. Bleyle

Not all chiefs dislike this term. Some feel it can be voiced disrespectfully. It’s a matter of personal opinion; but maintaining military bearing and respect is always the right thing to do.

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FITBOSS

Story and photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Travis Alston

T

emporarily assigned to Carl Vinson’s Morale, Welfare and Recreation division,

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Quartermaster (QM) 3rd Class Britney Pettway enlisted in the Navy in February 2011. After graduating Recruit Training Command (RTC) in Great Lakes, Illinois, Pettway attended Boatswain’s Mate “A” School in Great Lakes. She then reported to her first command, USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) as an undesignated seaman in Deck department. Pettway would eventually cross-rate to QM and report to Carl Vinson in May 2013. Originally assigned to Vinson’s Navigation department, she currently serves as a ticket office representative in MWR and assists with maintaining

financial reports and logs. She said giving birth and raising her daughter, Nyla is her proudest moment in life. Carl Vinson’s fun boss Rebekah McKoy says that Pettway is a vital asset on her team. “Pettway is always extremely reliable,” said McKoy. “I can count on her to get things done and volunteer for unwanted tasks. She is very focused on what she wants to do in life and I have no doubt in my mind that she will reach her goals.” Pettway’s motivation and drive is supported in her favorite quote. “You can’t change the world, until you change yourself.” – Sean Combs

CHANNEL

7

CHANNEL

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY

Get to Know Your MWR Staff: QM3 Britney Pettway

THURSDAY

This one is pretty obvious; wear workout clothes and athletic shoes in fitness areas. Boots and any other uniform items are not authorized workout gear aboard Carl Vinson. Be Considerate You should ensure both you and your work-out gear are washed regularly. If both are inadequately washed, odors can be made exponentially worse. Be courteous when using the water fountain. If there is a line, wait to fill your water bottle. It is fine, in fact encouraged to ask others if you may “work in” during your workout. Just allow others the same courtesy and, return the seat and weight to the last user’s setup. Make the gym experience universally pleasant. Avoid yelling, using profanity, banging weights and making loud sounds. Do not bring your own

6

FRIDAY

Help the flow of traffic Patrons should keep gym traffic patterns in mind at all times during their workout. Don’t camp out on the equipment while resting between sets. It is best to avoid clogging the pathways between machines. Make sure you resist the urge to congregate with your shipmates in the free-weight area. This is inconsiderate and can create a hazard. Always remember the weight room is for training. If you want to visit with friends, you can simply go to their work center or meet them on the mess decks. Keep your sweat to yourself Wipe off any bench or machine you use. Nothing is worse than picking up a slippery weight or laying down in someone’s pool of sweat. Wear appropriate apparel

personal radio to the gym; buy a set of headphones. Stick to posted time limits on all cardiovascular machines Some of the most popular cardio equipment will have a time limit; usually 30-minutes. Be respectful of others who are waiting. Refrain from re-arranging the gym during your workout. For example, don’t bring the barbell in the middle of the gym floor when deadlifts can be done using the Smith machine. Re-rack the weights and return all other equipment and accessories to their proper locations, once your workout is complete. There are quite a few of us aboard this fine warship and we will be here for a while. Practice common sense and obey all posted rules. Only use the weights and machines for the directed purpose. Avoid hoarding weights and space during your routine. Above all, just be considerate of your surroundings and your Shipmates.

SATURDAY

USS CARL VINSON

TV

NOW PLAYING CARL VINSON CINEMA REQUEST A MOVIE!

You may call J-Dial 6789 with your request only during a previous movie’s credits. 0815 1015 1230 1430 1630 1845 2045 2245 0100 0300 0500

NATIONAL LAMPOON’S CHRISTMAS VACATION NON-STOP THE NUTCRACKER THE ODD LIFE OF TIMOTHY GREEN NOW YOU SEE ME OVER THE HEDGE NATIONAL LAMPOON’S CHRISTMAS VACATION NON-STOP THE NUTCRACKER THE ODD LIFE OF TIMOTHY GREEN NOW YOU SEE ME

0815 1030 1245 1500 1730 1945 2200 0015 0230 0445

OLYMPUS HAS FALLEN THE OTHER WOMAN OUT OF THE FURNACE PAIN & GAIN PARANOIA PROMISED LAND OLYMPUS HAS FALLEN THE OTHER WOMAN OUT OF THE FURNACE PAIN & GAIN

0815 1045 1245 1500 1715 1915 2145 0015 0215 0430

PACIFIC RIM PARANORMAN PARENTAL GUIDANCE PERCY JACKSON: SEA OF MONSTERS THE PERKS OF BEING A WALLFLOWER RED TAILS PACIFIC RIM PARANORMAN PARENTAL GUIDANCE PERCY JACKSON: SEA OF MONSTERS

0815 1015 1230 1515 1715 1945 2145 2345 0200 0445

PLANES, TRAINS AND AUTOMOBILES THE RAVEN PULP FICTION RESEVOIR DOGS RUSH RUNNER RUNNER PLANES, TRAINS AND AUTOMOBILES THE RAVEN PULP FICTION RESEVOIR DOGS

0815 1000 1200 1430 1630 1830 2045 2230 0030 0300 0500

INTO THE STORM THE INCREDIBLE BURT WONDERSTONE IRON MAN JACK AND JILL JOHNNY ENGLISH REBORN JOYFUL NOISE INTO THE STORM THE INCREDIBLE BURT WONDERSTONE IRON MAN JACK AND JILL JOHNNY ENGLISH REBORN

0815 1015 1230 1500 1730 2000 2200 0000 0215 0445

IDES OF MARCH IMMORTALS JACK REACHER JERSEY BOYS JURASSIC PARK KICK-ASS 2 IDES OF MARCH IMMORTALS JACK REACHER JERSEY BOYS

0815 1115 1315 1630 1830 2115 0000 0300 0500

LINCOLN THE LEGO MOVIE LORD OF THE RINGS: FELLOWSHIP OF THE RING MALEFICENT MANDELA: LONG WALK TO FREEDOM THE MASK OF ZORRO LINCOLN THE LEGO MOVIE MALEFICENT

0815 1100 1315 1600 1745 2030 2230 0115 0330

L.A. CONFIDENTIAL THE LAST STAND LOVE ACTUALLY LUCY THE MATRIX MOONRISE KINGDOM L.A. CONFIDENTIAL THE LAST STAND LOVE ACTUALLY

0815 1100 1315 1545 1830 2030 2230 0115 0330

SON OF GOD STAR TREK II: WRATH OF KHAN SPIDERMAN 2 SUPERMAN: THE MOVIE TAKEN 2 THIS MEANS WAR SON OF GOD STAR TREK II: WRATH OF KHAN SPIDERMAN 2

0815 1030 1230 1430 1700 1900 2100 2315 0115 0300

SABOTAGE SHARK NIGHT SILENT HOUSE SILVER LININGS PLAYBOOK STAND UP GUYS TAMMY SABOTAGE SHARK NIGHT SILENT HOUSE SILVER LININGS PLAYBOOK

0815 1030 1245 1500 1645 1900 2100 2315 0130 0345

THOR: THE DARK WORLD TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN PART 2 WALKING WITH DINOSAURS VERONICA MARS WARM BODIES THOR: THE DARK WORLD TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN PART 2 WALKING WITH DINOSAURS

0815 1015 1245 1430 1630 1845 2115 2315 0145 0330 0530

THE THING TRAINING DAY UNDERWORLD: AWAKENING WAG THE DOG WORLD WAR Z THE WOLVERINE THE THING TRAINING DAY UNDERWORLD: AWAKENING WAG THE DOG WORLD WAR Z

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

“The 70”

newscast airs Sundays at 1800, CH 11. Catch it daily between movies on CH 6 and CH 7.

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