The Voice May 10, 2015 by USS Carl Vinson

Vinson Rugby Team Back in Action

Calling All Hands! 3 New Master Chiefs for CVN 70

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LCDR KYLE RAINES Public Affairs Officer

EXECUTIVE EDITORS

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CAPT KARL THOMAS Commanding Officer

LT TREVOR DAVIDS Assistant Public Affairs Officer

EDITORS-IN-CHIEF MCC(SW/AW) RUSSELL TAFURI

Media Department Leading Chief Petty Officer

MCC(AW/SW/EXW) DAVID CRAWFORD

MEDIA DEPARTMENT

Always There to Help

Carl Vinson Rugby Team

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PUBLISHER

Volume 6 Issue 15 May 10, 2015

Media Operations Leading Chief Petty Officer

ASSISTANT EDITOR

MC1(SW/AW) TRAVIS S. ALSTON MC1(SW/AW) RYAN TABIOS

GRAPHICS/LAYOUT MC3 PATRICK MENAH

STAFF WRITERS

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Master Chief Pinning

VAQ-139 Change of Command

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R I S N O L SO VIN INSON ARL V VINS CAR RL VIN ON CA ARL V SON N RL VIN CA ARL V SON C CARL INSON N CA VINS SON C RL VIN INSO RL A C VIN SON NC L V VINSO CARL L VIN N CA ARL V SON SO AR R IN O N RL VIN CA ARL V SON C CARL INSON N CA VINS SON C RL VIN INSO L R O L V N C VIN SO MC2(SW/AW) NICHOLAS BROWN CA L V VINS CAR L VIN N CA ARL SON L ON AR R O ON AR RL VIN INS N C ARL SON CA INS ON C L VIN SON INS MC2(SW/AW)CSCOTT FENAROLI LV LV CA VINSO SON C L VIN INSON ARL V VINS CAR RL VIN ON R R A A C S A V AR RL MC2(SW) IN KING NC ON NC RL ALEX SO CA ARL V SON C CARL INSON N CA VINS SON C RL VIN INSO VIN A RL V SON C P.VIWAGNER N SON RL V INSO ARL VIN L MC2(SW/AW) JOHN C R A RL L VIN N CA RL V ON C CARL NSON N CA L VIN N NC CA ARVAZQUEZ I S A R O O MC3 (SW) JAMES SO C 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 L VI N C MC3 (SW) ERIC N L V A A AR IN CA ARCOFFER NC O N CAR VINSO ON C RL V ON C CARL NSON N ON I S A SO S O INS MC3(SW) BRYAN CJACKSON INS L V VINSO CARL L VIN SON C L VIN INSON ARL V VINS VIN LV R L C ARL SON CAR AR CA ARL SON CAR VIN AR RL V C N C N C VIN SON ARL SON CA INSO N C VIN SON SO C V IN SO RL IN IN N RL ON VIN The Carl Vinson Voice is an CA ARL V NSON ARL V VINS CARL RL VIN N CA ARL V INSO RL A I O C C V C V N N C ARL SON CA INS ON RL ON RL internal document produced SO CA VINSO SON C L VIN INSON ARL V VINS N CA VINS SON VIN RL RL L VIN N CAR RL V ON C CARL VINSO CARL L VIN N A by and for the crew of the A C AR S A R N O NC SO C VINSO SON C L VIN INSON CARL INSON N CA VINS SON SO USS Carl Vinson and their VIN V VIN V IN SO AR RL IN RL ON RL A CA ARL V SON C CARL VINS CARL RL VIN N CA ARL V SON CARL C families. Its content does not C VIN SON ARL SON CA INSO N C VIN SON ON C V INS IN SO RL IN IN N RL ON LV necessarily reflect the official CA ARL V NSON ARL V VINS CARL RL VIN N CA ARL V INSO R A C C VI N C ARL SON CA INSO ON C RL V ON ON RL view of the U.S. government CA VINSO SON C L VIN INSON ARL V VINS N CA VINS SON INS R LV LV C ARL NSO ARL VIN L VIN A R R N C A or the Departments of CA ARL SON CAR INSO N C RL VI N C ARL SON NC O N C VIN N O CA C VIN SON SO LV SO NS INS Defense or Navy and VIN RL L VIN N CAR RL VI SON RL V VINSO CARL L VIN N L A R C AR A A A R IN O does not imply any C VINSO SON C ARL V SON C CARL INSON N CA VINS SONC C V IN SO RL IN IN N RL ON CA ARL V NSON ARL V VINS CARL RL VIN N CA ARL V INSO endorsement therein. C VI N C ARL SON CA INSO ON C RL V ON RL CA VINSO SON C L VIN INSON ARL V VINS N CA VINS SON C L V IN SO AR RL RL IN R CA ARL V SON C CARL INSON N CA RL VIN N CA ARL V SON C VIN SON V INSO CA INSO N C VIN SON L R O V V IN S A RL IN RL ON CA ARL V SON C CARL VINS CARL RL VIN N CA ARL V SON C N C IN SO A ON IN RL ON

PHOTOGRAPHERS

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Captain’s

Team Vinson, I have held off on sending this out until we departed Australia because I wanted the crew to stay focused at the task at hand--staying operationally proficient and safe. I still need you to focus at the task at hand, but we also need to start putting out information about our imminent return to San Diego. For many of you, this will be your first return after a long deployment. There is no better feeling in the world than when you head up the channel, the boats parade alongside you, the tugboats shoot water, the rails are manned, and you see the San Diego skyline sprawl out in front of you. Then you turn the corner towards North Island and you see the thousands of family and friends awaiting our return. It is truly a great feeling! It is even a better feeling for the friends and families that were left behind as they see America’s Favorite Aircraft Carrier come into view. There will be great anticipation by families and friends as we get the ship tied up, brows in place, and work to get Sailors off the ship quickly. There will be new fathers that will never have held their babies. Some of you were married for less time than we’ve been gone, and your spouses will be on the pier. Some will have families or friends that will have traveled for many miles to welcome you home. Media will be present and capture those joyous moments as we reunite. Hopefully, you are getting excited and I’ve painted enough of a vision that you will want to participate in the opportunity to have your family, friend, spouse or children lucky enough to be pulled out of the crowd to the VIP tent so that you can be the first off the ship! There will be an orchestrated method to the madness, and over the course of the next couple weeks, the First Class Associations of the ship and squadrons will be holding a drawing to determine who those lucky friends and families will be. They will hold a drawing so that three Sailors from the Ship and three Sailors from the Air Wing will win the opportunity to be re-united first with their family or friends. We will also have a drawing for a single Sailor from the ship and from the air wing that doesn’t anticipate any family

or friends present to be able to lead the liberty procession off the ship--that way everyone can participate. So here are the ground rules: 1) There will be four boxes (drawings) for each group--CVN 70 and CVW-17 (Strike Group and DESRON Sailors can put your name into either the ship or the Air Wing set of boxes, but not both). 2) Every Sailor is eligible to enter only once and in only one of the boxes (drawings). You do not have to participate if you don’t want to. 3) There will be four boxes: a) One box will be labeled “First Kiss” and is designed to be won by a Sailor whose spouse or significant other will be on the pier. b) One box will be labeled “First Hug” and is designed to be won by a Sailor whose dependent child (listed on page 2) will be waiting for them on the pier. c) One box will be labeled “First High Five” and is designed to be won by a Sailor whose parents or friend are waiting for them on the pier. d) One box will be labeled “First Liberty” and is designed to be won by a Sailor who does not expect to have somebody waiting for them on the pier. 4) An alfa roster will be used to ensure names are only entered once in only one of the drawings. 5) On May 23rd, three names will be pulled out of each box--a winner and two back-ups. The winners will be notified by the CMCs and be asked to provide the names and contact information for the individuals expected to meet them on the pier, so that we can notify, coordinate and pull them from the large crowd into the VIP tent. There is a good chance that media will cover these reunions. Please don’t enter “First Kiss”, “First Hug” or “First High-Five” if you do not want to have a camera capture your reunion. “First Liberty” will be a bit more discrete and that individual will lead the liberty party as it departs the ship. 6) We will verify that your family or friends want to participate and are willing to be taken to the VIP tent. 7) If the primary winner in each category does not desire to participate upon discussion with those expected to meet them, the back-ups will be approached in

the order that they were drawn. 8) The morning that we pull in, my spouse and the FRG leadership will meet up with the friends/families that have won at a predetermined location to escort them to the VIP tent. You can expect Sailors to be let off the ship in the following order: 1) Admiral and CO walk down officers brow for a press conference 2) Four other brows are placed on elevators 3) First kiss/hug/high five individuals depart ship 4) New dads depart ship in order of those born earliest in deployment 5) Raffle winner from Final Countdown Party 6) Ombudsmen spouses walk off the ship (ship/local squadrons/CSG/Desron) 7) Liberty Call by rank led by “first liberty” winner (More details to follow on brow departures--not the point of this email) 8) Air Wing that are departing for NALO flights will be taken off brows in the order flights are ready so that they are not delayed and can depart on time. The VINSON Family Readiness Group will hold a VINSON Final Countdown Party at the Navy Lodge North Island Air Station 1401-A on the base the night before we pull in between 1700-2100-and it is FREE! The event is open to ALL family members of our VINSON Sailors - including spouses, children, parents, siblings, boyfriends, girlfriends, etc. The FRG will be providing an AllAmerican dinner and dessert along with entertainment for the whole family. The party is outdoors and casual, and information about the pull-in will be provided (as well as the drawing for a lucky Sailor to depart the ship right after the new dads). The base access list for Homecoming Day will also be in effect for this party. If you have guests that will either attend this party or the homecoming that don’t have a military ID card, you will need to get them added to the base access lists. We’re inside a month and you should be excited. Stay focused and it will be here before we know it. V/R CAPT “T”

Always There to Help Story & photos by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Travis S. Alston

ailors assigned to Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17 assisted staff members from Parkerville Children and Youth Care Center as part of a community relations (COMREL) event, during a six-day port visit to Perth, Australia, Apr. 29. Founded in 1903 by the sisters of the community of the church, the center is devoted to helping children who have suffered from physical, mental or sexual abuse. “Child abuse is a problem world-wide,” said Basil Hanna, Parkerville Children and Youth Care Center chief executive. “If it wasn’t for the help of this group of Sailors, this center would not be where it is today. They are heroes and we really appreciate everything they did today.” During their visit, Sailors helped remove old fencing, cleared ground for various gardens and flowerbeds and cleaned numerous facilities at the establishment, which will play a key role during the center’s annual picnic. Before departing the center, staff members served lunch to show their gratitude for the Sailors’ help. “This was an amazing opportunity for me,” said Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) 3rd Class Alexis Clinton. “I always look forward to the COMREL events we do in port. This was definitely the highlight of my port visit.” Parkerville Children and Youth Care Center has cared for some of Western Australia’s most vulnerable children and young people for more than 111 years. Today, they provide services in residential, community, outreach and clinical settings to thousands of children, young people and families.

Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) Airman Anthony Kemp, left, and Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) Airman Brandon Bowman break up dirt at the Parkerville Children and Youth Center during a community relations (COMREL) event in Perth, Australia.

Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) 3rd Class Alexis Clinton organizes board games at the Parkerville Children and Youth Center during a community relations (COMREL) event in Perth, Australia.

Carl Vinson Strike Group Sailors tear down a fence at the Parkerville Children and Youth Center during a community relations (COMREL) event in Perth, Australia.

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Story & photos by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jacob Sisco

arl Vinson Carrier Strike Group and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17 Sailors took a break from their rest and relaxation to volunteer their time to assist staff members at the Perth Zoo, Apr. 30. The Sailors cleared rubbish, dug holes to plant new trees and chopped down overgrown brush throughout the zoo. “It’s really great to give back to a foreign community,” said Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) 2nd Class Jowalsh Oytas. “It feels good being able to share our enthusiasm and beliefs concerning events like this with the community.“ In addition to helping the community, the project also gave Sailors a more productive alternative to going out and indulging in the local bar scene. “This was an awesome experience,” said Senior Chief Machinist’s Mate Adrian Davila. “We got to do a lot of hard work, and it was way more rewarding than going out and just drinking. It was fun, the people that hosted us were very nice and the food was great. The experience with the animals was awesome and I really enjoyed it.” The Sailors’ efforts made a positive impression that reached far beyond the bounds of the local community. “We are just thrilled to have this group of Sailors here for a port visit,” said Cynthia A. Griffin, consul general, United States Consulate Perth. “The work they do is truly amazing and it is important for people to see what they do and understand the significance of our alliance. We’d like to thank them, we are in awe of the work that they do, and I am truly proud to be an American.” The Perth Zoo opened more than 100 years ago and is still going strong today. It is home to more than 1,200 animals and participates in breeding programs designed to help save animals on the brink of extinction. The zoo’s conservation efforts along with the support it receives will ensure it remains open for another 100 years.

Aviation Machinist’s Mate 2nd Class Dino Tobia feeds a Rhinoceros at the Perth Zoo during a community relations (COMREL) event in Perth, Australia.

Chief Electronics Technician Eric Rosko pets an elephant at the Perth Zoo during a community relations (COMREL) event in Perth, Australia.

Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) Airman Apprentice Jasmine Pack installs fencing at the Perth Zoo during a community relations (COMREL) event in Perth, Australia.

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Story & photos by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Cory D. Sanders

ailors assigned to Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17 took time out of their schedules to volunteer at the NativeARC Rehabilitation Center while in Perth, Australia, Apr. 29. “The purpose of this community relations (COMREL) event was to reach out to the community in Australia and give our Sailors a chance to help out the animals in the area,” said CVW 17 command chaplain Lt. Mark Simonsen. NativeARC was created more than 20 years ago as an animal rehabilitation center dedicated to nursing animals back to good health and educating residents on how to protect the local wildlife from the hazards that humans create. “The organization had been operating for about ten years before being recognized as a non-profit organization in 1998,” said NativeARC manager and animal care coordinator Dean Joseph Hexley. “From day one, NativeARC has been rehabilitating sick and injured wildlife while educating the community.” During the event, Sailors assisted NativeARC staff by removing fencing, posts, concrete beddings and pools from old habitats to make way for newer, state-of-the-art

Logistics Specialist 2nd Class Vernon Yumol feeds a kangaroo at the NativeARC Rehabilitation Center during a community relations (COMREL) event in Perth, Australia.

Chief Culinary Specialist Juanito Tingco carries logs to be used for an animal habitat at the NativeARC Rehabilitation Center during a community relations (COMREL) event in Perth, Australia.

facilities. To conclude the COMREL, staff members barbecued for the Sailors to show their appreciation. “We really love the fact that these Sailors came down to help,” said Hexley. “It’s great having a large group to help with projects that would usually take longer than a day.” For Carl Vinson Machinist’s Mate 2nd Class Joshua Gumm, this was an opportunity to help animals in need while learning how to avoid harming other animals in the future. “Before coming to Australia, I never thought I would have a chance to interact with kangaroos up close,” said Gumm. “Not only did I get to play with them, but I also got to learn about them and help them out.” Annually, NativeARC cares for as many as 2,200 injured animals on a small budget with a group of highly dedicated volunteers, and is the only center of its kind in the south metropolitan region. The organization cares for a variety of wildlife and specializes in native sea and water birds that are brought in from all over the state. They also play a key role in rescuing animals in distress.

Giving Back

to Man’s Best Friend

Story by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Samantha Montenegro

arl Vinson Carrier Strike Group and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17 Sailors volunteered at Dogs’ Refuge Home while enjoying a port visit in Perth, Australia, Apr. 28. Dogs’ Refuge Home is a non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing and finding new homes for abused, neglected, and abandoned dogs. “We’ve been here helping clean the dogs’ homes, rake leaves, cut grass, clean signs and clean buildings,” said Cynthia A. Griffin, consul general, United States Consulate Perth. “It’s just been absolutely fabulous. The Sailors are wonderful.” Dogs’ Refuge Home Trustee Jennifer Skiff added that the volunteers at the animal welfare agency outnumber the employees, and the organization relies on volunteers to complete these necessary maintenance projects. “We are grateful for the Sailors’ help,” said Skiff. “Sometimes we struggle to complete certain tasks due to a lack of staff and money. The goal of the refuge home, with the help of its volunteers, is to give dogs a second chance at a happy life, so I’d like to thank each and every Sailor for their help.” Dogs’ Refuge Home was established in 1935, making it one of the oldest animal welfare organizations in Western Australia. The refuge’s activities are motivated by the fundamental understanding that dogs are entitled to the same love and understanding they give to their owner, according to their mission statement.

Aviation Machinist’s Mate 2nd Class Dino Tobia cleans out a dog kennel at Dogs’ Refuge Home during a community relations (COMREL) event in Perth, Australia. (Photo by MC3 Hansel Pintos)

A dog at Dogs’ Refuge Home in Perth, Australia. (Photo by MC3 Hansel Pintos)

USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) Sailors play with a dog outside Dogs’ Refuge Home in Perth, Australia. (Photo by MC3 Hansel Pintos)

A Ruck and a

Hard(er) Place: Carl Vinson Rugby Team

VS. Cottesloe Rugby Union Wrecking Crew

Story by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Curtis D. Spencer

SS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) Rugby Team, the Golden Eagles, faced off against the Cottesloe Rugby Union Wrecking Crew, Apr. 28 during the crew’s visit to Perth, Australia. The Golden Eagles represented the command honorably and fostered good will between their team and the local Aussies, though their team lost 22 to 63. “Playing the game was great because it helped build camaraderie not just amongst the crew, but with the host nation as well,” said assistant coach and player, Aviation Ordnanceman 1st Class Michael Sanchez. “Rugby is a very social sport. When you get a group of people together, it really builds teamwork and communication. All the players really form a bond.” The Golden Eagles unfortunately dug themselves a hole early in the game, falling behind by four scores within the first few minutes of the match. The Sailors would rally for three straight scores and close the half trailing the Wreckers by five points. “We have definitely improved,” Sanchez said. “We play for the love of the game. A lot of our guys had never played before and it was nice to get them on the field to learn, and spark their competitive spirits.” When the game was over, none of the Golden Eagles hung their heads in disappointment. The game in Perth was

USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) rugby team members participate in a line-out in a game against the Cottesloe Rugby Union Wrecking Crew during a port visit to Perth, Australia. (Photo by MC3 Curtis D. Spencer)

never about the final score, much like the game in Dubai, Sanchez explained. “The game was just good fun,” Sanchez said. “I have always loved rugby. I started playing on a Navy ship during my first deployment and now, 11 years later, I am still playing. Win or lose, we do this for the love of the game.” This was the last game for the Golden Eagles during the ship’s 2014/2015 Western Pacific (WESTPAC) deployment. The Sailors will now turn their attention to their shipboard duties until Carl Vinson arrives at its homeport of San Diego. “Overall, rugby fosters teamwork, physical fitness and communication,” added head coach and player Aviation Ordnanceman Airman Alexander Morris. “These are all useful in the Navy. We plan to keep things going once we get home. We look forward to being able to practice more and play other San Diego teams in the near future.” Sailors interested in either joining the Carl Vinson rugby team or participating in any way can contact AO1 Michael Sanchez or AOAN Alexander Morris.

USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) and Cottesloe Rugby Union Wrecking Crew team members pose for a group photo during a port visit to Perth, Australia. (Photo by MC3 Curtis D. Spencer)

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USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) rugby team members pass the ball in a game against the Cottesloe Rugby Union Wrecking Crew during a port visit to Perth, Australia. (Photo by MC3 Curtis D. Spencer)

USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) rugby team members tackle a player in a game against the Cottesloe Rugby Union Wrecking Crew during a port visit to Perth, Australia. (Photo by MC3 Giovanni Squadrito)

A USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) rugby team member prepares to throw a ball during a line-out in a game against the Cottesloe Rugby Union Wrecking Crew during a port visit to Perth, Australia. (Photo by MC3 Curtis D. Spencer)

A USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) rugby team member catches a ball in a game against the Cottesloe Rugby Union Wrecking Crew during a port visit to Perth, Australia. (Photo By MC3 Giovanni Squadrito)

USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) rugby team members discuss a play in a game against the Cottesloe Rugby Union Wrecking Crew during a port visit to Perth, Australia. (Photo by MC3 Curtis D. Spencer)

Photo by MCSN D’Andre L. Roden

Photo by MC2 Nicholas Brown

Photo by MCSN D’Andre L. Roden

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Photo by MC3 James Vazquez Photo by MC3 Eric J. Coffer

Photo by MC2 John P. Wagner Jr.

Photo by MCSN Tyler Hawthorn

Photo by MC2 John P. Wagner Jr.

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Photo by MC2 John P. Wagner Jr.

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Photo by MC3 Bryan Jackson

Photo by MC2 John P. Wagner Jr.

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Photo by MC2 Scott Fenaroli

Photo by MC2 Alex King

Photo by MC2 John P. Wagner

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Reaching the Pinnacle: USS Carl Vinson Welcomes Three New Master Chief Petty Officers Story by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Tyler Hawthorn

Sailors aboard USS Carl Vinson (CVN70) observed the pinning of three new master chief petty officers during an all-hands call in the ship hangar bay, May 3. During the all-hands call, Carl Vinson Commanding Officer Capt. Karl Thomas promoted Senior Chief Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Fuels) Michael German, Senior Chief Electronics Technician Christopher Hatton and Senior Chief Hull Maintenance Technician Shane Howell. “When you think about all the advancement rates and obstacles these men had to overcome, it’s really a tremendous accomplishment,” said Thomas while addressing the crew. “I’d like to congratulate each one of them. They deserve it.” The enlisted ranks of senior chief and master chief were created June 1, 1958, under a 1958 amendment to the Career Compensation Act of 1949. The only Sailors eligible for promotion to senior chief were chiefs holding a permanent appointment with at least four years in grade and 10 years of service. Chiefs could be promoted to master chief if they served for a total of 13 years in service with at least six years as a chief. Service-wide examinations for outstanding chiefs were held Aug. 5, 1958, and the first promotions became effective Nov. 16, 1958. A few months later, a second group of chiefs were promoted to senior and master

Master Chief Hull Maintenance Technician Shane Howell gets promoted during a master chief pinning ceremony in the USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) hangar bay. (Photo by MC2 Nicholas Brown)

Master Chief Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Fuels) Michael German gets promoted during a master chief pinning ceremony in the USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) hangar bay. (Photo by MC2 Nicholas Brown)

chiefs. After the promotions of May 1959, only senior chiefs were eligible to earn the rank of master chief. To become a master chief is an honor that is taken very seriously by those who earn the title. “It’s been a career dream of mine to become a master chief,” said Hatton as he reflected on his promotion. “It’s something I have really worked hard for, and I am honored.” While working toward the goal of becoming a master chief petty officer is an incredible undertaking, it isn’t impossible, said Howell. “Honestly, I feel that anybody can advance if they work hard enough at it,” Howell said. “If you keep trying and keep pushing, you can get there. I wasn’t afraid to ask other people well outside my rate and field for advice, and that was important to help get me on the right track.” Hatton added that he is thankful for the Sailors he has led who have helped him obtain such an achievement, and he is fortunate to have so many positive influences throughout his career. “The most rewarding part of getting pinned is knowing that I didn’t get here on my own,” Hatton said. “The Sailors I have worked with throughout my career have definitely helped me get here. But most of all, I’m thankful to be able to share this experience with my shipmates and my family.”

Keeping Up With Koalas vvvv

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

ailors from USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17 visited Cohunu Koala Park in Perth, Australia as part of a community relations (COMREL) event Apr. 27. During the day-long event, Sailors helped renovate animal habitats, cleaned the park grounds and fed a variety of exotic Australian wildlife. “It’s been a blast,” said Chief Aviation Electrician’s Mate Guadalupe Garcia. “Events like this are important so our host country knows we’re willing to help out. It makes me feel good being able to do something like this for the animals and the staff. We did a lot to help out.” Halfway through the day, the Sailors where treated to an Australian-style barbecue hosted by Cohunu Koala Park staff. “The barbecue was very kind of them,” said Aviation Support Equipment Technician 2nd Class Marty Smith, “We got to eat some delicious food and see the way they cook, and it was definitely a change from the usual fare.” Although Sailors were rewarded with food and a chance for some close encounters with Australian wildlife, community relations events such as this one can be rewarding in their own right. “I’ve always enjoyed volunteer work,” Smith said. “Knowing that I’m able to volunteer in another country at a facility that needs help was fantastic, because not only was it fun, but I know what we did here today is going to have a lasting impact on this facility and all the upcoming visitors and tourists that are going to come here. They are going to appreciate it.” “Events like this are important,” Garcia said. “Because they let our host country know that we’re willing to be there for them and help out. It’s a way of giving back.”

A Peacock at Cohunu Koala Park in Perth, Australia.

A koala at Cohunu Koala Park in Perth, Australia.

Carl Vinson Strike Group Sailors install a fence at Cohunu Koala Park during a community relations (COMREL) event in Perth, Australia.

VAQ-139

In-Flight

Change of Command Ceremony

Story by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman D’Andre L. Roden

lectronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 139 “Cougars” held an airborne change of command ceremony, May 3. Cmdr. Lew Callaway relieved Cmdr. William Fraser as the commanding officer of VAQ-139, during a ceremony in the skies above the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70). Callaway initially arrived on board in January 2014 as the Cougars executive officer (XO). “I’m excited,” said Callaway. “The team I’ve gotten a chance to lead couldn’t be better. They teach me new things every day and I view it as a personal growth experience.” Fraser assumed command of VAQ-139 in October 2014. He departed Carl Vinson May 3. His next duty station is slated to be at U.S. European Command in Brussels, Belgium. “He is very excited to support the European command and have his three daughters experience living overseas,” Callaway said about Fraser. Following the change of command ceremony, Cmdr. David W. Skarosi assumed his new role as the Cougars’ XO. “I’m very excited to be a part of the team,” said Skarosi. “I really enjoy flying in a squadron and in an air wing. I think when we work together as a team, great things happen. This squadron has been doing exceptionally well since they began flying the EA-18G Growler.” Callaway and Skarosi both said their immediate goals are to get the squadron home from deployment safely and give them some well-deserved time to spend with their families.

An Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 139 “Cougars” EA-18G Growler prepares to launch from the USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) flight deck for an airborne change of command ceremony. (Photo by MC2 Scott Fenaroli)

Cmdr. William Fraser, left, and Cmdr. Lew Callaway shake hands on the USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70 ) flight deck after an airborne change of command ceremony. (Photo by MC2 Scott Fenaroli)

Cmdr. Lew Callaway prepares for an airborne change of command ceremony in the squadron’s ready room. (Photo by MC3 James Vazquez)

Cmdr. William Fraser climbs into the cockpit of an EA-18G Growler before an airborne change of command ceremony. (Photo by MC3 Eric J. Coffer)

Cmdr. Lew Callaway, right, and Lt. Cmdr. Larry Mahan prepare to launch from the USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) flight deck for an airborne change of command ceremony. (Photo by MC2 Scott Fenaroli)

Cmdr. William Fraser, left, and Cmdr. Lew Callaway pose for a picture on the USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70 ) flight deck after an airborne change of command ceremony. (Photo by MC2 Scott Fenaroli)

An Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 139 “Cougars” EA-18G Growler prepares to taxi on the USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) flight deck before an airborne change of command ceremony. (Photo by MC3 Eric J. Coffer)

An Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 139 “Cougars” EA-18G Growler makes an arrested recovery on the USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) flight deck after an airborne change of command ceremony. (Photo by MC2 Scott Fenaroli)

Cmdr. William Fraser exits the USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) flight deck after an airborne change of command ceremony. (Photo by MC3 Eric J. Coffer)

ABFAN Marcos Hernandez Date: May 4 Dept: Air

IT3 Joshua Vogel Date: May 5 Dept: Combat Systems

AN Hernandez devoted countless hours during 12 underway replenishment evolutions, keeping always on the alert and ready to respond. His involvement contributed to the safe receipt, transfer and issue of more than 15 million gallons of JP-5 fuel. As damage control petty officer, he spends countless hours performing preventive and corrective maintenance on all damage control equipment while maintaining the material condition of readiness for 96 divisional spaces. He also serves as a boundary man for repair locker 7F and recorder during weekly zone inspections.

IT3 Vogel spent 38 hours processing tool and equipment orders totaling $3,718.62 and an information technology procurement report totaling $2,917 in portable hard drives for data transfer in preparation for a successful period of incremental availability. He was also responsible for the troubleshooting and resolution of the High TEMPO Pay Allowance making a registry change allowing personnel to complete their pay processing for the entire ship. He is also the Navy Tactical Command Support System (NTCSS) Administrator responsible for the upkeep, maintenance and operation of 2 UNIX Servers providing 24/7 operational availability for 1,600 end users.

DECKPLATE DIALOGUES What was your favorite experience in Australia?

ABH1 Steven Andersen

“The Australian nightlife was the best.”

MMFN Monserrat Callejas

“I enjoyed meeting the friendly Australians.”

SR Dakota Swank

“I liked getting to experience the scenery in the downtown areas.”

Lt. Cmdr. Clif Jackson

“Fremantle because it had nice shops and that reminded me of where my parents live back in Maryland.”

CSSN Juris Malapit

“I really enjoyed seeing new and unfamiliar faces and getting to know a different culture.”

BMSN Jonathan Vukelic Date: May 6 Dept: Deck

CTTSN Tyler Peterson Date: May 7 Dept: Intel

DCFN Dillon Lincoln Date: May 8 Dept: Engineering

MC3 Curtis Spencer Date: May 9 Dept: Media

SN Vukelic was hand picked to take ownership of the XO’s passageway, sponson and khaki gym. He most recently earned his enlisted surface warfare qualification and is currently enrolledandworkingonhissecondary warfare qualification. As a lead rigger on underway replenishment and connected replenishment stations, his experience sets a pace for precision operations with maximum attention to safety contributing to the safe transfer of more than 14.5 million gallons of fuel and 5,169 pallets of frozen and dry goods.

SN Petersen carries a very high level of responsibility. As one of the top operators in Intel Department, he diligently tracks all foreign vessels of interest and directly contributes to the daily identification of significant signals of interests that provide the indications and warnings enabling the strike group warfare commanders to achieve accurate situational awareness and information superiority. His knowledge of the order of battle has enabled the electronic warfare module to detect military contacts of interest early, while eagerly training junior Sailors and peers in SLQ-32 watch standing qualifications.

SN Lincoln issued over 500 Chemical, Biological and Radiological (CBR) kits to Carl Vinson and Carrier Air Wing 17 Sailors. His efforts and dedication to duty ensured that all hands on board were fully mission ready. Additionally, he worked in the fixed systems shop, where he conducted more than 100 maintenance checks on installed fire fighting systems and ensured functionality of fire fighting equipment to include halon, fixed flooding CO2, counter measure wash down, and main drainage eductors.

MC3 Spencer has written more than 75 news and feature stories, communicating command achievements and initiatives to our internal and external audiences Navy-wide. He produced two command information spot advertisements and provided more than 100 minutes of video footage for use in various video products. As a CPR/Heart Saver instructor, he instructed more than 12 classes helping to qualify over 500 air-wing and ship Sailors. Additionally, he is the man on camera each week on the XO’s Morning Show with Spencer’s 70 Seconds of Sports segment.

FUN BOS F S BOSUNB UNBS FUNBOOSS SS FUNOSS BOS FU S NBO NBO SS BOS SS F

FUN BOS S S

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The last Big Bucks Bingo of the deployment is right around the corner. So far during this deployment, the jackpot for the blackout game has not been won. In this Wednesday’s bingo game, the first person to receive blackout in the 4th bingo game will win a $25,000 Voucher to Navy Auto Source. Prizes for each individual game will consist of two $1,000 Navy Cash cards. Bingo cards are available for purchase from the MWR ticket office (2-94-6-Q) and Aft Mess decks during dinner hours until 6:30 p.m. on May 13. Traditionally, the command has always given away a car upon its return from deployment. In 2012, a lucky crew member walked off the brow to a gorgeous Mustang convertible! Due to the extended deployment and better than expected sales in the ship store, Chuckie V’s and vending, we are able to give away two cars for the end of deployment celebration. One car will go to a lucky member of ship’s company and one car to CSG-1/CVW-17/DESRON 1 combined crew. Each winner will receive a voucher for $25,000 to Navy Auto Source that they can use to cover the entire cost of a car or use it toward a more expensive car and pay the difference. Vouchers are not redeemable for cash and a car must be requested from Navy Auto Source by June 4. All active duty personnel on board are eligible to win and as long as you are mustered and accounted for on May 13, your name will be included in the drawing. You don’t need to do anything to be eligible! Sorry, but Civil Service, contractor personnel, and foreign national partners on board are not eligible to win. Just watch Bingo on Wednesday, May 13 for the winning drawing.

Photos from Morale, Welfare and Recreation Bingo Night. (Photos by MC2 Alex King)

NOW PLAYING @ CARL VINSON CINEMA

CHANNEL

MONDAY

Guardians of the Galaxy Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone Harry Potter and the Order of Phoenix Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince Guardians of the Galaxy Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone Harry Potter and the Order of Phoenix Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

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Hope Springs Transcendence Safe Haven Philomena Thor: Dark World Hope Springs Transcendence Safe Haven Philomena Thor: Dark World Hope Springs

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Hansel and Gretel Witch Hunters We Were Soldiers Texas Chainsaw 2013 The Loft A Walk Among the Tombstones Hansel and Gretel Witch Hunters We Were Soldiers Texas Chainsaw 2013 The Loft A Walk Among the Tombstones Hansel and Gretel Witch Hunters We were Soldiers

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Project Almanac The Hunger Games The Hunger Games: Catching Fire The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1 Wrath of Titans Project Almanac The Hunger Games The Hunger Games: Catching Fire The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1 Wrath of Titans

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The Hangover Part 3 Wag the Dog Walking with Dinosaurs Fury Birdman The Hangover Part 3 Wag the Dog Walking with Dinosaurs Fury Birdman The Hangover Part 3

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Spiderman Spiderman 2 Spiderman 3 Transformers: Age of Extinction Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen Spiderman Spiderman 2 Spiderman 3 Transformers: Age of Extinction

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The Untouchables Thelma & Louise This is the End To Kill a Mockingbird Savages The Untouchables Thelma & Louise This is the End To Kill a Mockingbird Savages

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Black or White Total Recall (2012) The Perks of Being a Wallflower Trouble With the Curve Social Network Black or White Total Recall (2012) The Perks of Being a Wallflower Trouble With the Curve Social Network

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This is 40 Saving Private Ryan The Raven Sabotage Safe This is 40 Saving Private Ryan The Raven Sabotage Safe

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Selma Paddington The Watch Top Gun Quantum of Solace Selma Paddington The Watch Top Gun Quantum of Solace Selma Paddington

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Prometheus Silent House Silent Hill Revelation Silver Linings Playbook Savages Prometheus Silent House Silent Hill Revelation Silver Linings Playbook Savages Prometheus

SATURDAY

FRIDAY

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TUESDAY

Hamburger Hill Unfinished Business Stand Up Guys That’s My Boy What to Expect When You’re Expecting Hamburger Hill Unfinished Business Stand Up Guys That’s My Boy What to Expect When You’re Expecting Hamburger Hill Unfinished Business

WEDNESDAY

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THURSDAY

SUNDAY

REQUEST A MOVIE!

Call J-Dial 6789 while the previous movie’s credits are rolling. A list of 100s of movies archived for request is located on the Share Point: 1. Type www in browser address bar, Hit <Enter> 2. Select Media (under Departments on left side of screen) 3. Select “Movie Schedule & Inventory” bar below buttons on top of page 4. Select “Movie Inventory”

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.

ILARTS GBS TRAINING ALL REQUEST MOVIES G - PG-13 MOVIES PG13 - R MOVIES AFN PRIME PACIFIC AFN NEWS AFN SPORTS MRI TRAINING TRAINING SLIDES SLIDES AFN XTRA AFN SPORTS

AMERICA S

NAVY

“The 70”

newscast airs Sundays at 1800 on channel 4.

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