NNS150302-26. Navy Reserve Celebrates Centennial Anniversary
-- http://www.navy.mil/search/
NNS150302-27. Vice CNO Kicks Off Women's History Month at USNA
-- http://www.navy.mil/search/
NNS150302-24. Northwest Sailors Participate in Military Saves Week
-- http://www.navy.mil/search/
NNS150302-23. SURFPAC Announces 2014 Sea and Shore Sailors of the Year
-- http://www.navy.mil/search/
NNS150302-21. Liberty Policy Update Expands CO's Authority
-- http://www.navy.mil/search/
NNS150302-20. Museum Tea Party Commemorates Treaty of Ghent, War of 1812
-- http://www.navy.mil/search/
NNS150302-18. "Infanteria de Marina" Celebrate Their 478th Birthday Aboard USNS Spearhead
-- http://www.navy.mil/search/
NNS150302-17. New Naval War College Joint Military Operations Chair Lays Out Vision
-- http://www.navy.mil/search/
NNS150302-14. CNP Announces MPT&E SOY
-- http://www.navy.mil/search/
NNS150302-10. U.S., Japan Increase Warfighting Capabilities through Fleet Synthetic Training
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NNS150302-09. U.S. Naval Forces Central Command Celebrates Navy Reserve Centennial Anniversary
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NNS150302-07. JMSDF Band Receives Prestigious Howard Citation
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NNS150302-06. Team Carl Vinson Sailors Run ML5K
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NNS150302-05. Malaysian Armed Forces and Delegates Visit USS Bonhomme Richard
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NNS150302-04. Navy Region Japan Installations Honored for Energy Efficiency
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NNS150302-03. Bonhomme Richard Sailors and Marines Partner with Community for Community Relations Project
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NNS150302-01. Submarine Force U.S. Pacific Fleet Sailors of the Year Announced
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NNS150227-25. Commanding Officer of USS Mississippi Relieved
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DNU -- In today's edition of All Hands Update, USS Fort Worth practiced Code for Unplanned Encounters at Sea, or CUES, with the Chinese Navy and MCPON Mike Stevens testifies before congress alongside senior leaders from other military branches to discuss current status of their respective branches.
-- http://www.navy.mil/viewVideo.
DNU -- The Navy's Civil Engineers Corps, or CEC, celebrates 148 years of designing, constructing and maintaining shore facilities for the Navy worldwide.
-- http://www.navy.mil/viewVideo.
DNU -- United Through Reading program helps families keep in touch during deployments.
-- http://www.navy.mil/viewVideo.
NNS150302-19. Current All Hands Update
-- http://www.navy.mil/search/
NNS011215-04. This Day in Naval History - March 02
-- http://www.navy.mil/search/
Eye on the Fleet - U.S. Navy Photo of The Day
-- http://www.navy.mil/list_
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NNS150302-26. Navy Reserve Celebrates Centennial Anniversary
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class(SCW/SW/AW) Jonathan Pankau, Defense Media Activity
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Service members and civilians packed the Pentagon Library Conference Center for the Navy Reserve Centennial Kickoff Celebration March 2.
Chief of Navy Reserve Vice Adm. Robin R. Braun delivered the opening remarks, commending Navy Reserve Sailors for being ready then, ready now and ready always, and introduced Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Jonathan Greenert, the centennial's keynote speaker.
"Serving through the Cold War, I've seen the Navy Reserve go from a group of 'One day we may need them, let's hold on to them. That's our strategic reserve,'... to integration, to addiction in Desert Shield/Desert Storm,... to really, frankly, total integration today," Greenert said.
Greenert and Braun visited the U.S. Navy Reserve displays set up in the Pentagon's Navy corridor after the opening ceremony and performed the cake and ribbon cutting.
"All 59,000 Sailors are very proud to celebrate the history and the heritage of our service and especially to highlight the millions who have served over the past century," said Braun.
Congress authorized the establishment of the Federal Naval Reserve on March 3, 1915. Initially, the only Sailors eligible to enroll were enlisted Navy veterans. On Aug. 29, 1916, with the prospect of America's entry into World War I looming, the Navy Reserve reorganized to allow the enrollment of non-veterans and designated as the U.S. Naval Reserve Force.
Since Sept. 11, 2001, there have been more than 70,000 Selected Reserve mobilizations, along with an additional 4,500 deployments by Full Time Support Sailors, including more than 8,000 who have done a second combat tour. Since its establishment in 1915, there have been five U.S. presidents who have served in the Navy Reserve.
For more information on the Navy Reserve, search Navy.mil or visithttps://www.navyreserve.navy.
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NNS150302-27. Vice CNO Kicks Off Women's History Month at USNA
By Mass Communications Specialist 3rd Class Nathan Wilkes, U.S. Naval Academy Public Affairs
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (NNS) -- Adm. Michelle Howard, vice chief of Naval Operations, spoke with U.S. Naval Academy midshipmen during a Women's History Month kickoff celebration in Laboon Hall March 2.
The event, hosted by the Naval Academy's Joy Bright Hancock Organization, gave a unique opportunity for midshipmen and officers on the Yard to learn about prominent female role models throughout history from the Navy's highest-ranking female officer. More than 100 midshipmen attended the event.
"Today is the kickoff for Women's History Month, and we are honored to have Adm. Michelle Howard here to speak to the midshipmen and help us begin our celebration," said Lt. Stephen McCartney, USNA assistant chief diversity officer.
The theme for this year is "Weaving the Stories of Women's Lives." During the event, Howard shared her story as well as the stories of prominent female figures throughout history.
"Women's History Month provides a great opportunity to reflect on the important figures who came before us and made an impact on the world," said Howard, a 1982 Naval Academy grad, and the first female four-star in U.S. naval history. "It's important for us to know about these people who made such a difference, and events like these give me the opportunity to share the stories of some of my favorites."
During the presentation, Howard shared the stories of influential women throughout history including Kady Brownell, Hedy Lamarr, Capt. Winifred Quick Collins, Stephanie Kwolek, and Rear Adm. Katherine Gregory. She also shared a few of her own personal experiences while attending the academy and in the fleet.
"I think this was a great way to kick off the month, and I especially enjoyed when Adm. Howard was able to tie in her own experiences that she had with her classmates," said Midshipman 4th Class David Perez. "It's important that midshipmen take advantage of the vast wealth of experience that is offered here at the academy and use it to become better leaders."
For this year's Women's History Month, JBHO plans to work on building camaraderie between the female officers on the Yard and female midshipman as well as discuss the future of women's roles in the military.
"Adm. Howard is a true inspiration to all of us, and to have her kick off Women's History Month with us here at the Naval Academy, was an awesome experience," said Midshipman 2nd Class Nicole Fasolino. "I learned a lot from the presentation, and I hope that other midshipmen are able to attend the events we have scheduled for this month and take away important lessons that they can carry into their daily lives as leaders."
The Joy Bright Hancock Organization began as the only women's organization at the U. S. Naval Academy, and has since expanded to engage in gender-neutral issues. Though its mission has adapted over time, it continues to bring female midshipmen together to discuss and address issues related to balancing personal and career choices.
For more news from U.S. Naval Academy, visit www.navy.mil/local/usna/.
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NNS150302-24. Northwest Sailors Participate in Military Saves Week
By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Jeffry Willadsen, NPASE Det. Everett, and Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Charles Gaddis, NPASE Det Northwest
EVERETT, Wash. (NNS) -- Fleet and Family Support Centers (FFSC) at Naval Station Everett (NSE) and Naval Base Kitsap Bangor promoted fiscal responsibility and retirement during Military Saves Week, Feb. 23-27.
Military Saves Week, inspired by the America Saves campaign, is an annual campaign designed to educate the Navy community on how to save, build wealth, prevent debt, and promote overall financial responsibility.
"We aren't born knowing how to manage our money," said Kahlia Sullen, a personal financial management specialist for NSE's FFSC. "Financial responsibility is something we have to learn."
Each year, the Navy promotes Military Saves Week through a variety of events and initiatives. This year, the campaign on NSE comprised two major components: manned information booths in NSE's Commons Building and Smokey Point Naval Support Center, and a Million Dollar Sailor class.
At Naval Base Kitsap, a guest speaker addressed those in attendance.
"I'm proud to be a service member advocate and I appreciate all the things they do for our country," said Holly Petraeus, assistant director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB).
The purpose of the booths was to inform Sailors and their families about the value of saving money and taking control of their financial future. Members of NSE's FFSC made themselves available during the week to discuss financial issues with Sailors and give them information about debt reduction, saving, and sound financial management.
"One main thing we are trying to do is help reduce the financial stress on Sailors," said Sullen. "This way, they can be less bogged down by financial worries. It also causes them to be more productive Sailors, increasing operational readiness in the process."
The Million Dollar Sailor class, that spanned three days and included 12 course modules, was a more in-depth and involved look at financial issues concerning Sailors. Topics included debt management, consumer awareness, car buying, home buying, saving, investing, and retirement planning.
"The course is designed to target our younger Sailors," said Sullen, who facilitated the course. "We want to catch them early, and try to prevent financial hardship in their future."
Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 3rd Class Amanda Coleman, a native of Wauconda, Illinois, said she attended the Million Dollar Sailor class because she wanted to learn how to financial prepare for having a baby later this year.
"I learned a lot," said Coleman. "I personally think that anyone who has a chance to should take a class like this. If they are secure financially or not, I think that everyone should take this class at least once."
According to Sullen, she always gets positive feedback about the content of the class and the resources it provides.
"People tell me that they learn a lot of things they didn't know about before," Sullen said.
"I hope service members become more mindful of their money and pay more attention to their finances," said Petraeus. "There are many businesses waiting to prey on our military."
Another component of Military Saves Week is the Saver Pledge. Throughout the week, Sailors and their family members were encouraged to go online and take the pledge to save their money, reduce debt, and encourage their family, friends, and shipmates to do the same.
For more information on Military Saves Week, or the Save Pledge, go tohttp://www.militarysaves.org.
For more news from Navy Public Affairs Support Element West, Det. Northwest, visit www.navy.mil/local/nwpacen/.
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NNS150302-23. SURFPAC Announces 2014 Sea and Shore Sailors of the Year
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Zachary Bell,
Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet Public Affairs Officer
SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- The staff of Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet (SURFPAC) announced the 2014 SURFPAC Sea and Shore Sailors of the Year (SOY) during a banquet at the Admiral Kidd Catering and Conference Center in San Diego, Feb. 27.
Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 1st Class Petty Officer (AW/SW) David C. Dysart, USS Makin Island (LHD 8); was named the Sea SOY, and Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Fuels) 1st Class (AW/SW) Joseph C. Mathews, USS America (LHA 6), was named Shore SOY.
Spouses, command leadership teams, distinguished military guests and community supporters attended the ceremony where the Senior Sailors of the Year for each SURFPAC sea and shore commands were also recognized during the event which was sponsored by the Surface Navy Association.
Dysart hails from St. Joseph, Missouri, and entered the Navy on Nov. 17, 2003. He completed the Airman Apprenticeship Training Core Course in Pensacola, Florida, and began his shore tour at instructor duty with Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 3 at Naval Station North Island. His sea commands includes USS Nimitz (CVN 68) and USS Makin Island (LHD 8), where he is currently assigned as the Air Department leading petty officer (LPO).
"The Sailors that I lead and the Sailors who helped me to this position are the main reason I have won this great honor," said Dysart. "I never thought I would make it this far as a three year airmen, I am just elated to have come this far in my career and be blessed with such a high honor."
Mathews, a native of Hayward, California, entered the Navy in June 2003. He graduated from "A" School in October 2003 at Naval Air Technical Training Center (NATTC) in Pensacola, Florida. His shore tour includes an assignment to Naval Air Station Whidbey Island as the Fuels LPO. His sea commands include USS Essex (LHD 2), USS Nimitz (CVN 68) and USS America (LHA 6), where he is currently assigned as the Air Department LPO and V4 Division's Maintenance LPO.
"It's amazing to be able to represent my command; I feel great about it and it has been such a humbling experience," said McArthur. "I am ecstatic at having won and it is an absolute honor going forward and representing the eight individuals who were my competition but who are now my friends."
Seven finalists took part in board interviews, command events and a series of community outreach activities, which included meeting with Pearl Harbor survivors, a visit to USS Midway Museum, and the San Diego Zoo. The finalists also attended professional development sessions at SURFPAC headquarters.
"We are here to recognize these Sailors' outstanding service," said SURFPAC Force Master Chief Jason Wallis. "They should be extremely proud of their accomplishments and the fact that their commands recognized their hard work and have lead them to this path puts them one step away from putting on anchors."
Dysart and Mathews will now compete in Hawaii against Pacific Fleet nominees vying for the Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet (COMPACFLT) Shore and Sea SOY titles. The sea and shore-based commands of COMPACFLT represent more than 200,000 Sailors. The top COMPACFLT Sea Sailor will be eligible for meritorious promotion to chief petty officer and the Shore SOY will move on to competition in Washington, D.C., for possible designation as the 2014 Chief of Naval Operations Shore SOY.
For more news from Naval Surface Forces, visit www.navy.mil/local/cnsp/.
For more news from Commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet, visit www.public.navy.mil/surfor or follow the Surface Force atwww.facebook.com/
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NNS150302-21. Liberty Policy Update Expands CO's Authority
From Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Navy liberty policy revisions announced March 2, and outlined in MILPERSMAN 1050-290 provide commanding officers with greater clarification and authority to manage their people and meet mission requirements.
Consistent with Chief of Naval Personnel's goal to provide more authority back to command triads and allow for more effective management of their people, the revised policy expands descriptions of when special liberty may be appropriate, including for compassionate reasons.
Those examples include granting special liberty after extended deployments or time away from homeport, to reward exceptional performance, allow for Sailors to attend a funeral of a family member or assist one dealing with serious illness or injury, or any special occasion or circumstance determined by the commanding officer.
Leaders will also be able to establish their own "out of bounds" for liberty and special liberty and modify it as operational requirements dictate.
What's not changed is that special liberty may not exceed four days, or be combined with normal liberty or special holidays to allow for an absence exceeding four days. Sailors combining regular leave with special liberty still must start and finish leave at their home station or port.
The revised MILPERSMAN 1050-290 can be reviewed atwww.npc.navy.mil.
For more news from Chief of Naval Personnel, visitwww.navy.mil/local/cnp/.
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NNS150302-20. Museum Tea Party Commemorates Treaty of Ghent, War of 1812
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Shannon M. Smith, Navy Public Affairs Support Element, East
NORFOLK (NNS) -- Visitors got a taste, literally, of the culture and society of 1815 during a tea party at the Hampton Roads Naval Museum Feb. 22.
The museum, in conjunction with the United States Daughters of 1812, the Norfolk Historical Society, and the Regency Society of Virginia, hosted "Make Tea not War: A Tea Commemorating the Treaty of Ghent", commemorating the end of the War of 1812.
Attendees were transported back in time to 1815 Norfolk through conversations with costumed re-enactors while music played on the Irish harp.
"It (the tea party) takes something like the Treaty of Ghent, that ended the War of 1812 some two hundred years ago, and brings it to life," said Lee Duckworth, HRNM's director of education. "And having re-enactors here to talk about what culture was like, what society was like, what it was like on the home-front, what some of the Sailors went through in that time, just brings it all together."
Re-enactor Stacy Weissner, a founder of the Regency Society of Virginia, said she loves feeling as though she's living a piece of history through events like the tea party.
"History is basically one big story, and it's great to have fun with it and not just study it," said Weissner. "You find out things you can't find out in a book. I can't find out in a book what it's like to be in stays (a corset)... there are various aspects of the period that until you try to walk in their shoes, quite literally, you just couldn't find out otherwise."
Many of the Regency Society members hand-sewed elements of their costumes for authenticity as well as researched talking points for the tea tables through old letters, newspapers, and books about the time period.
The Treaty of Ghent, signed in Belgium, and ratified by the U.S. Senate Feb. 18, 1815, formally ended the War of 1812 between the United States of America and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland. The war served to establish the United States as a lasting world power, causing some historians to view it as the "Second War for American Independence."
"The lasting impact of that war is in many ways greater than the actual war, for as you've also heard, many of the symbols and successes of America, and especially the United States Navy, were born in that conflict," said Ray Mabus, secretary of the Navy, during his remarks at the bicentennial event in 2012 commemorating the anniversary of the war.
Some of those symbols, including the famous saying, "Don't give up the ship," and the creation of the "Star-Spangled Banner," highlight the way the war embedded itself into U.S. history.
"I think it's important not only for Sailors in the Navy, but for the local populace here in the Hampton Roads area to understand what took place, what it was like to live during the war of 1812," said Duckworth.
The event also served as an opportunity for some members of the international community to learn about the region's history through the volunteer efforts of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) youth ambassadors.
The youth ambassadors, dependent children of officers stationed at NATO Headquarters in Norfolk, volunteer at various activities and organizations to fulfill community service requirements for high school diplomas and scholarships in the United States.
"Because they are military, they have traveled around; they have a little more poise," said Trish Carrier, executive director of the Norfolk NATO Festival. "But they're learning about other cultures, not just American, and they're true ambassadors because they're learning a lot about us, but then people learn about them in return."
Students from Germany, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, France, Greece and Canada participated in the HRNM event by serving the tea and cookies to the guests.
"It's nice to just sit down and serve tea and just talk with people. I like that," said Noor Assa, 15, originally from the Netherlands. "Usually, we're behind the scenes, with no people around; now, we're really doing stuff where the people see us. I want to know what people think, their opinions about things."
For the participants, organizers, and volunteers, the tea party provided a unique chance to bring history to life in a more interactive and digestible format, while highlighting Hampton Roads as a crux for military activity.
"People have always been affected by what goes on with the Navy and what goes on with the port here, and in that, we aren't so far removed from that," said Weissner. "We're very tied to the water and what happens there, and it's comforting in a way to know that this area has always thrived on that, it's nice to have an area that is saturated in that Naval history and proud of it."
The museum introduces visitors to more than 239 years of U.S. naval history in the Hampton Roads area. One of 10 officially operated U.S. Navy museums reporting to the Naval History and Heritage Command in Washington, D.C., the HRNM houses a rich collection of authentic uniforms, weaponry, underwater artifacts, detailed ship models and artwork. For more information on the museum and their upcoming events, visit www.hrnm.navy.mil.
For more news from Navy Public Affairs Support Element, East, visitwww.navy.mil/local/
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NNS150302-18. "Infanteria de Marina" Celebrate Their 478th Birthday Aboard USNS Spearhead
By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Joshua Davies, Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet Public Affairs
GULF OF GUINEA (NNS) -- Members of the Spanish "Infanteria de Marina" or Spanish navy marines celebrated their service's 478th birthday, while aboard the Military Sealift Command joint high-speed vessel USNS Spearhead (JHSV 1) Feb. 27.
Five Spanish navy marines are aboard Spearhead to support Africa Partnership Station 2015, enhancing training capabilities and interoperability with the other 21 partner nation participants.
"It is my pleasure to have members of the oldest marine corps in the world aboard," said Spearhead's Ship's Master Douglas Casavant. "I feel honored as a ship's captain to have such precious cargo onboard and look forward to getting to know more about their nation and service."
"I am delighted to share in such a great and historic moment in the Spanish marine's history," said Africa Partnership Station 2015 mission commander Cmdr. Matthew Flemming.
Formed in 1537 by Charles I of Spain, the Spanish navy marines claim the title of the oldest marine corps in the world. The Spanish navy marines are Spain's premier amphibious landing assault force. The distinguished marine force has seen action all over the world, including Santo Domingo (1804), Cuba (1898), and Morocco (1911).
Living up to its proud history, the "Infanteria de Marina" is a highly capable modern force with various specialties including artillery, rotary-wing aircraft and a special operations force.
The Spanish navy marines continue in their role as an elite amphibious force with a presence in Europe, Central America and Asia operating as an emergency evacuation force for civilians and capable deterrent to aggression.
For more news from Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/local/naveur/.
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NNS150302-17. New Naval War College Joint Military Operations Chair Lays Out Vision
By Daniel L. Kuester, U.S. Naval War College Public Affairs
NEWPORT, R.I. (NNS) -- The U.S. Naval War College (NWC), Newport, Rhode Island, has named Capt. Richard LaBranche as new chair of the Joint Military Operations (JMO) department.
LaBranche, who came to NWC in 2013 after serving as commander, Carrier Air Wing 17 aboard the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), sees his current tour as an opportunity to focus on the needs of the warfighter.
"We want the course to be relevant to the warfighter," said LaBranche. "The course is strong, but like everything, there is always room for improvement."
The JMO department curriculum prepares future military and civilian leaders for high-level policy, command and staff positions requiring joint planning expertise and joint warfighting skills. It emphasizes the theory and practice of operational art as it relates to maritime and joint forces.
LaBranche says he is energized in his new position. He knows the department has a strong reputation, but he hopes to make it stronger.
"My job is to make sure that I leave the place better than I got it, if that is possible," said LaBranche. "It is an honor to be here, also humbling. I just want to make sure the curriculum continues to improve on my watch."
To keep the course strong, LaBranche says the curriculum must change as the warfighters' environment continues to change.
"A long time ago, we had only a surface domain [for warfighting]," said LaBranche. "Tall ships, cannon balls and getting into position to fire were the goals. Then much later we got subs, so we had to teach about that. Then air power became important.
"Now we add cyber. To be relevant, we must now focus and expand upon naval capabilities writ large, and teach tactics that integrate all maritime power. In this way, we will better prepare our students for operational level warfare to meet national security challenges as a member of the joint team."
LaBranche also hopes to broaden perspectives of the students by providing them with an education and not simply training.
"Training is preparation for the known. Education is preparation for the unknown," said LaBranche. "As a fighter pilot, I had been trained on tactics for my whole life. I learned about things like missile ranges, speed of aircraft, threat capabilities, and everything else I had to know. All my training in my adult lifetime had been for the known.
"When I came here [as a student in 2001], I started to ask 'Why?' [and] I started to ask, 'What is the intent of what we are doing?'
"The difference between this place and every other place in the Navy is that this place provides an education."
For more information on the NWC's JMO curriculum, visithttp://www.usnwc.edu/jmo.
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NNS150302-14. CNP Announces MPT&E SOY
By Scott A. Thornbloom, Naval Service Training Command Public Affairs Office
GREAT LAKES, Ill. (NNS) -- Intelligence Specialist 1st Class Johnetta Heckard was selected as the 2014 Chief of Naval Personnel/Manpower, Personnel, Training and Education (MPT&E) Sailor of the Year (SOY) at a luncheon ceremony held in the Port O' Call Banquet and Conference Center on Naval Station Great Lakes here, Feb. 27.
There were three MPT&E SOY finalists this year that included Heckard from Navy Personnel Command (NPC) in Millington, Tennessee., the NPC SOY; Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Sharon N. Barker, from Recruit Training Command (RTC), Great Lakes, Illinois, and the Naval Education and Training Command (NETC) SOY; and Navy Counselor 1st Class Ryan A. Blackmer, from Navy Recruiting District Michigan in Detroit, and the Navy Recruiting Command (NRC) SOY.
The announcement was made at the luncheon by Chief of Naval Personnel (CNP), Vice Adm. William F. Moran, who oversees all commands in the MPT&E domain.
"This process is about much more than simply picking a winner, 'Sailor of the Year' allows us to pause and reflect on service, humility and the importance of recognizing excellence," said Moran.
"It is honor to be part of this celebration, to get to know these Sailors and to meet with the leaders who nominated them, leaders recognizing leadership and the very best talent in our Navy. I'm incredibly proud and humbled by the quality of our Sailors at all levels in our Navy, and particularly impressed by the quality of these Sailors of the Year and the impact they are having in the lives of Sailors all around the fleet."
As MPT&E finalists Barker, Blackmer and Heckard began their SOY week participating in an interview process conducted by CNP Fleet Master Chief April Beldo and MPT&E domain force master chief petty officers. During the week they toured a number of commands on the "Quarterdeck of the Navy" at Naval Station Great Lakes.
During their tours at these training commands they were given an opportunity to mentor Sailors at Training Support Center (TPC) Great Lakes and recruits at the Navy's only boot camp, RTC Great Lakes. They toured where recruits conduct their final capstone event of boot camp, Battle Stations, the culmination of their boot camp training on board the Navy's largest ship simulator, the 210-foot-long replica of an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer, USS Trayer (BST 21).
They also observed the weekly Pass-In-Review graduation, Feb. 27, in the Midway Ceremonial Drill Hall. There they joined more than 1,000 parents, relatives and loved ones to watch as 599 recruits graduated and became United States Navy Sailors.
The group was also given a day to take in numerous Chicago attractions Feb. 25, including the German submarine U-505 at the Museum of Science and Industry, the 103rd floor Skydeck of the Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower), Pritzker Military Library and Navy Pier. And they were the guests of honor of the National Basketball League's Chicago Bulls and were joined by CNP Moran at the game between the Bulls and Charlotte Hornets at the Bulls' home stadium, the United Center.
Before the game on the Bulls home floor, the Sailors were given an on-court salute by the Bulls organization and met several players from each team, including Hall of Fame center and former New York Knick Patrick Ewing, now a coach for the Hornets. The group took cell phone "selfies" with Ewing at center court and had an official photo taken after being welcomed by the team's Vice President of Basketball Operations and former Bulls championship guard, John Paxson.
"Ten years ago when I joined and I walked through the gates of boot camp, I never thought that I could be here," said Barker, from Brooklyn, New York. "It's been a very humbling experience. This whole week, we've toured Chicago and it's been amazing. Being at a Bulls game was something I wanted to do before transferring and getting that opportunity has been awesome. I can't wait to go back and tell the stories to my junior Sailors."
Heckard said she was very humbled by her selection and the entire process. "I feel overwhelmed right now, humbled, thankful for the opportunity, and kind of shocked that my name was called. It was kind of like an 'are you sure'-type moment," said Heckard, 31, from Toledo, Ohio, who is the junior enlisted intelligence specialist detailer at NPC.
"For the most part I'm just humbled and thankful to just even be part of this and then to be recognized and selected as MPT&E Sailor of the Year has been overwhelming."
Heckard credited her command, her mentors and Sailors that work for and with her for getting the 13-year Sailor this far into the annual competition. Her next step will be to go through the Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Shore Sailor of the Year competition in Washington, D.C. If she is selected, she will automatically promote to chief petty officer.
"The opportunities I've had to be mentored and to mentor, I think, has really helped me become a better Sailor," said Heckard. "I've always believed that if you keep your focus, keep your eye on the prize or on your goals, everything will work out," said Heckard. "The whole week has been amazing and it should always take place here at Great Lakes."
Fleet Master Chief Beldo called the entire week an outstanding event and said it was once again very special to have the week at Great Lakes, bringing the finalists back to "The Quarterdeck of the Navy".
"It was all about having a good time and recognizing them for the hard work they've done and making sure that they know as leadership we do appreciate everything they do to get to this point in their careers," said Beldo.
"During the week it was awesome watching them mentor our junior Sailors and recruits at TSC and RTC, they got to have some fun in Chicago and they remained humble and very professional the entire week. For me it was very exciting," said Beldo, who has served as command master chief at both RTC and at Naval Service Training Command (NSTC) headquarters on Naval Station Great Lakes.
Beldo said bringing the finalists back to Great Lakes was an opportunity to remind them where their Navy careers began. She said most of the finalists have been in the Navy now for 10 years and coming back to Great Lakes was an opportunity to reacquaint the finalists, the other force master chiefs from the MPT&E domain and supporting staff with the training at the "A" Schools and, in particular, the training being conducted today at boot camp.
"None of the three finalists have been back to boot camp since they graduated from here," said Beldo. "All of them said they were refreshed and motivated being back here. I asked them to get the word back to the fleet about how the recruit division commanders (RDCs) and officer leaders are getting the job done and turning civilians into Sailors. That job is getting done and these three finalists saw that this week."
The CNP Fleet Master Chief said she believes whenever there is an opportunity to bring fleet Sailors back to RTC, it should be taken and Sailors should return.
"This SOY week was perfect to bring these Sailors back to see the changes in training and then they can take what they saw back to their commands in the fleet and let their commands know that the group of trainers, instructors, facilitators, RDCs and CNRC (Commander, Navy Recruiting Command) folks are all do
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NNS150302-10. U.S., Japan Increase Warfighting Capabilities through Fleet Synthetic Training
By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Ricardo R. Guzman, USS George Washington Public Affairs
YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) -- U.S. and Japan forces participated in a four-day Fleet Synthetic Training-Joint (FST-J) exercise, Feb. 23-27.
FST-J provided training to personnel from Commander, Task Force 70, U.S. Army and Air Force and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) and Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) in strike force level proficiency, operations, joint interoperability and mission rehearsal for ships, aviation, and submarine simulators.
"This is a joint and bilateral synthetic training exercise," said Lt. Cmdr. Phillip Moore, CTF 70's ballistic missile defense (BMD) officer. "We're working very closely with our regional ally, Japan, and are currently practicing and conducting our periodic certifications of BMD - tactics, techniques and procedures in a realistic, multi-warfare environment."
Training exercises are conducted using models and simulations to replicate real-world command and control systems, which allow units to develop operator-level proficiency and validation of tactics, techniques and procedures prior to participation's of real-world events or joint training exercises.
"FST-J provides an excellent opportunity for Japan Self-Defense Force (JSDF) and U.S. forces to operate in a complex and multi-warfare tactical environment," said Lt. j.g. Weston Ford, BMD officer aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS John S. McCain (DDG 56). "Ultimately, this will enhance our bilateral relations and interoperability between the U.S. and JSDF when defending against hostile threats."
The U.S. and Japanese forces encountered computer-generated environmental conditions, political state of affairs and foreign military provocations without having to operate at sea.
"In the past, FST-J training has been more focused on executing the BMD mission from a ship's perspective," said Moore. "We have expanded BMD training this year to include as many of the players who we have to interact with when we execute an actual mission."
FST-J enables the Navy and its allies in different geographical areas to gain training efficiencies at sea by conducting training exercises and synthetic pierside scenarios, and plays a vital role in the qualification, readiness and interoperability of the strike group and its host nation.
"Synthetic training provides us the unique opportunity to fully exercise not only our shipboard capabilities, but the combined capabilities of the U.S. and Japan bi-lateral force," said Cmdr. Chad Graham, John S. McCain's executive officer.
CTF 70 (Carrier Strike Group 5) is embarked aboard the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) and includes Carrier Air Wing 5, Aegis cruisers USS Shiloh (CG 67) and USS Antietam (CG 54) and Destroyer Squadron 15. Together, these units form the U.S. Navy's only continuously forward deployed (and largest) carrier strike group and are critical combat elements of the U.S. 7th Fleet.
For more news from Commander Task Force 70, visitwww.navy.mil/local/ctf70/.
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NNS150302-09. U.S. Naval Forces Central Command Celebrates Navy Reserve Centennial Anniversary
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Sean Furey, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command Public Affairs
U.S. 5th Fleet Area of Operations (NNS) -- For the past 100 years Reserve Sailors have served as a critical part of our Navy, providing a surge force in the event of a crisis, acting as a reliable source to augment existing staff for major exercises and operations.
Together, Reserve and active duty Sailors are fully integrated, truly representing a one team one fight spirit. There's never a better time to recognize the need for Reservist in our force than now, the Navy Reserve Centennial celebration.
The United States Navy Reserve, established March 3, 1915, was originally the effort of former Secretary of the Navy Josephus Daniels and his assistant Franklin D. Roosevelt. That same year, the 1915 Naval Appropriations Act created the Navy Reserve.
By the end of World War I, nearly 60,000 Reserve Sailors had been mobilized and through World War II, Korea, Vietnam and the Gulf Wars, the Navy Reserve has continued to answer every call. In fact more than 65,000 Reserve Sailors have been mobilized since 9/11.
Here in the U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) area of operations (AOO), individual Reserve Sailors, Reserve unit commanding officers, operational support officers and Navy Operation Support Centers all work together with supporting units to determine mission requirements to better match manpower resources with availability, allowing Reserve Sailors to integrate seamlessly with active duty components.
"The active duty side of NAVCENT sets the Reserve requirements and has always been extremely involved in doing so," said Capt. Samual D. Pontier, NAVCENT, operational support officer. "This ensures Reservists are gainfully employed when they come here to the area of operations and are properly trained in the positions that needs to be filled, which ultimately ensures the mission is accomplished."
Reserve Sailors may serve from only a few weeks a year up to full-time support. This can prove challenging for the individual Sailor due to civilian job and family responsibilities.
"Unique to the Reserves is their civilian job and family, that's often not apparent on the active side," said Rear Adm. Luke M. McCollum, vice commander, NAVCENT. "Every time that I'm with a group of Navy Reservists, I always ask how many of them had to say no to a family obligation to be here. Almost half of them always raise their hand. We try to recognize the families back home when there are short notice call-ups to make sure that they feel like they are part of service."
In an active area like NAVCENT's AOO, continuity is key in achieving the mission. With many active duty Sailors only serving one to two year tours, turnover rate is high which means that information may not get passed to incoming personnel. That is where the nearly 200 reservists in Bahrain and more than 400 total reservists in the AOO come into play.
"The Reserves brings multiple years of continuity to operations in the NAVCENT area of operations," said McCollum. "They are able to come in and provide continuity during times of turnover and they are also able to augment manpower during large exercises like the recently completed International Mine Countermeasures Exercise."
Another advantage that the Reserves add to the fleet is the ability to implement their civilian working knowledge seamlessly into the active duty side of the Navy. Reservists diversify and broaden the ways we do things in our force. In fact, many reservists have graduate-level educations, some are senior executives in a fortune 500 company and some even run their own businesses.
"We, in the Reserve component, are completely indistinguishable from the active duty Sailors. We are embedded in our commands, executing the same duties and responsibilities as our active counterparts," said Capt. Richard Henderson, chief of staff, Task Force - Individual Augmentee. "We are trained military professionals ready to answer the nation's need when called upon. We also bring professional expertise from a wide spectrum of civilian occupations that broadens perspectives in accomplishing the COMUSNAVCENT mission."
Reserve Sailors assist in the U.S. 5th Fleet AOO in many different aspects such as cyber warfare, public affairs support and medical assistance, to name a few. They excel alongside their active duty counterparts.
"We have Reservists who provide highly specialized medical care for joint U.S. service members, Afghan locals and Coalition," said Yeoman Senior Chief Desiree S. Hayes, NAVCENT, CTF-IA senior enlisted leader. "Their good work yielded the highest combat injury survival rate in modern warfare history at 98 percent."
"This is a great time to reflect on the 100 years of contribution from the Navy Reserve," said McCollum. "Even after things settle down in this area, they may escalate in another but we know we are able to deploy and place our Reserve components with active duty forces wherever the fight may need to be held."
The centennial anniversary of the Navy Reserves gives us the opportunity to look back on the accomplishments of the past and reflect on how they have added so much value to our service.
For more news from Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/5th Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/local/cusnc/.
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NNS150302-07. JMSDF Band Receives Prestigious Howard Citation
By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman David Flewellyn, Navy Public Affairs Support Element Japan
YOKOHAMA, Japan (NNS) -- Rear Adm. John Alexander, commander, Task Force 70, presented the John Philip Sousa Foundation's Colonel George S. Howard Citation to the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Band, Yokosuka, during a concert at the Minato Mirai Concert Hall in Yokohama, Feb. 27.
The John Philip Sousa Foundation is a non-profit foundation dedicated to the promotion of international understanding through the medium of band music. The foundation presents the George S. Howard Citation specifically to military bands that demonstrate particularly significant high standards of musical excellence in concert performances.
"On behalf of the United States Navy, I would like to congratulate the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Yokosuka Band in winning the Colonel George S. Howard Citation of Musical Excellence," said Alexander during a speech to the crowd of about 1,500. "The Sousa foundation presents a number of awards recognizing excellence in band performance both in the United States and abroad."
Since 1988, this award has been given out more than 80 times, but only five times to foreign military bands.
The band played a two-hour concert to an enthusiastic crowd, including a march by Sousa. Alexander presented the award to the band's conductor, Lt. Cmdr. Yoshio Higuchi, during an intermission.
"This is the first time that the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Band has won this award and after listening to their performance, I can see why they have earned this great achievement," said Alexander. "We hope that, through events like this, we will continue to strengthen our U.S.-Japan relationship."
For more news from Commander Task Force 70, visitwww.navy.mil/local/ctf70/.
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NNS150302-06. Team Carl Vinson Sailors Run ML5K
By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman D'Andre L. Roden, USS Carl Vinson Public Affairs
USS CARL VINSON, At Sea (NNS) -- In recognition of Black History Month, Sailors assigned to USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17 and Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 1 held a Martin Luther King Jr. 5K run on the Carl Vinson flight deck, March 1.
The event was coordinated by the Coalition of Sailors Against Destructive Decisions (CSADD) chapter and the command Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) department on board Carl Vinson.
"It's not just about African-Americans, it's about progress," said Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Fuels) 3rd Class Jalisa Patrick, Carl Vinson CSADD president. "We are literally out here running together, which is the main focus of the run."
More than 100 Sailors came out to show their support and run laps around the flight deck.
"The participation was amazing," Patrick said. "This is the first 5K CSADD has coordinated. MWR was a big help."
As the race kicked off, Patrick gave words of encouragement to all of the participants and joined them in the run.
USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) is conducting flight operations in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. The Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group is currently deployed to the area conducting maritime security operations, strike operations in Iraq and Syria as directed, and theater security cooperation efforts.
For more news and information about USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), log on to the official command Facebook page: www.Facebook.com\USSVINSON.
For more news from USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), visitwww.navy.mil/local/cvn70/.
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NNS150302-05. Malaysian Armed Forces and Delegates Visit USS Bonhomme Richard
By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Naomi VanDuser, USS Bonhomme Richard Public Affairs
KOTA KINABALU, Malaysia (NNS) -- Malaysian Armed Forces and delegates from the State of Sabah, Malaysia, visited the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) and the embarked 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), Feb. 27.
Participants were given the opportunity to embark Bonhomme Richard via an MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft, tour the spaces and view the ship's capabilities, observe a UH-1Y Huey Venom helicopter live-fire demonstration and a Marine raid force demonstration.
"The live-fire exercise is part of the continued relationship between the United States and Malaysian militaries," said Maj. David Loveday, 31st MEU air officer. "The focus of the event is the UH-1Y, MV-22B, and the amphibious capability that they help provide. This event was originally discussed between the Malaysian and Marine Corps leadership in an effort to build on previous engagements."
This visit marks the first port visit of a big deck amphibious ship to Malaysia in two years. The visit's purpose is meant to develop relations between the United States and Malaysian governments by both countries conducting military training together.
"This exercise is part of an enduring relationship between our nations," said Loveday. "There will be other events that allow U.S. Marines and Sailors to train with our Malaysian peers, but this was a great opportunity to visit with them in an area where the U.S. has not traditionally visited. In the future, we hope for future opportunities in this area and throughout Malaysia for the bilateral training events."
Bonhomme Richard is the flagship of the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group and, with the embarked 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, is currently deployed in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations.
Bonhomme Richard ARG is currently under the tactical command of embarked Commander, Amphibious Squadron 11, Capt. Heidi Agle and reports to Commander, Amphibious Force U.S. 7th Fleet, Rear Adm. Hugh D. Wetherald, headquartered in White Beach, Japan.
For more news from USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6), visitwww.navy.mil/local/lhd6/.
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NNS150302-04. Navy Region Japan Installations Honored for Energy Efficiency
From U.S. Naval Forces Japan Public Affairs
YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) -- The U.S. Pacific Fleet recognized Navy Region Japan installations for 2014 Secretary of the Navy Energy and Water Management achievement during a training forum at Fleet Activities Yokosuka (CFAY) Feb. 27.
Pacific Fleet Maintenance Officer Rear Adm. Alma Grocki presented CFAY, Fleet Activities Sasebo (CFAS) and the amphbious dock landing ship USS Germantown (LSD 42) with Gold Level awards for their outstanding energy programs and made remarks to training participants.
"We are trying to get information to the fleet so they can make better decisions and have more tools to use to conserve energy," said Grocki. "With the constrained resources that we have, not just money but other resources, we have to do this if we want to be an effective warfighter."
Grocki also presented Blue Level Awards, given to well-rounded energy programs, to Naval Air Facility Atsugi, Japan, Naval Support Facility Diego Garcia, Fleet Activities Okinawa, Japan, and Naval Air Facility Misawa, Japan.
Awardees spoke of a cultural shift brewing in the Navy, critical to efficient support of forward deployed naval forces (FDNF).
"What we can do is try to create a culture of energy awareness and a culture of energy conservation. And that, as much as any of the material things we've done is really what has helped us lower our energy impact. We've got to keep that culture going of not just going green, but saving the resources we have," said CFAY Commanding Officer Capt. Dave Glenister.
"Fleet Activities Sasebo is keenly focused on energy and water conservation, as demonstrated by four consecutive years of Gold Level of Achievement. We owe this to our superb facilities planners and the Sailors, employees and families who are actively engaged in protecting these precious resources," said CFAS Commanding Officer Capt. Matthew Ovios.
Deputy Regional Engineer Capt. Nick Merry, and leaders from Naval Sea Systems Command, Naval Air Systems Command, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command, Commander, Submarine Force U.S. Pacific Fleet and Naval Facilities Engineering Command also spoke at the forum. These commands led breakout training sessions in the afternoon. Training discussions focused on sharing ideas and technologies various commands have used to become more efficient with their energy use.
"As the fleet becomes more and more aware of conserving energy, we're finding people are very excited about this. Sailors are people that have great imaginations and great initiative and they come up with things on their own about how to save energy," said Grocki.
For more news from Naval Facilities Engineering Command, visit www.navy.mil/local/navfachq/.
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NNS150302-03. Bonhomme Richard Sailors and Marines Partner with Community for Community Relations Project
By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kevin V. Cunningham, USS Bonhomme Richard Public Affairs
KOTA KINABALU, Malaysia (NNS) -- More than 40 Sailors and Marines from the amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) teamed up with city council workers and local volunteers to help beautify Likas Bay Public Park, Feb. 24 during the ship's scheduled port visit to Kota Kinabalu.
"Caring for the beautiful beaches of Malaysia sends a real Navy message," said Yeoman 3rd Class Justin Quinones, from Phillipsburg, New Jersey. "The best way to lead is by example. If we show we care, maybe it will be followed by others."
The event, organized by BHR and the local city council, focused on establishing relationships with the local community and to be an example for the city's residents.
"We hope this helps our citizens take pride in what is ours," said Jennifer Vun, a city tour guide and event coordinator. "Malaysia has some of the most spectacular beaches and seeing the American Sailors and Marines care means so much to us."
"Kota Kinabalu is a beautiful city and one of the best liberty ports for 7th Fleet Sailors and Marines," said Cmdr. Curtis N. Price, Expeditionary Strike Group 7 chaplain. "This project builds on our commitment to our friends, and gives our crew the opportunity to see this great country firsthand."
Bonhomme Richard is the flagship of the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group and, with the embarked 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, is currently deployed in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations.
Bonhomme Richard ARG is currently under the tactical command of embarked Commander, Amphibious Squadron 11, Capt. Heidi Agle and reports to Commander, Amphibious Force U.S. 7th Fleet, Rear Adm. Hugh D. Wetherald, headquartered in White Beach, Japan.
For more news from USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6), visitwww.navy.mil/local/lhd6/.
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NNS150302-01. Submarine Force U.S. Pacific Fleet Sailors of the Year Announced
By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Anthony Walker, Submarine Force U.S. Pacific Fleet Public Affairs
SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Sea and Shore Sailors of the Year (SOY) for Commander, Submarine Force U.S. Pacific Fleet (COMSUBPAC) were announced Feb. 27 following a week of events where 9 SOY candidates representing various commands from the Pacific submarine community competed for the distinguished title.
The 2014 Sea Sailor of the Year was awarded to Yeoman 1st Class William Kennedy, from the Los Angeles-class submarine USS San Francisco (SSN 711).
The 2014 Shore Sailor of the Year was awarded to Navy Counselor 1st Class Sarah Dozier, from Commander, Submarine Group 9.
Also selected to compete in the competition were:
LS1 (SW/AW) Jonathan Lee, USS Frank Cable (AS 40)
MM1 (SS) Christopher Smith, USS Ohio (SSGN 726) (BLUE)
HM1 (SS/FMF) Jose Delgado, USS Columbia (SSN 771)
ND1 (DSW/SS/SW) Kristoffer Ilagan, Undersea Rescue Command
STG1 (SW) Brandon Ronne, Naval Ocean Processing Facility, Whidbey Island
FT1 (SS) Kevin MaClean, Commander, Submarine Squadron 15
YN1 (AW) Angela Fiorucci, Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet
All candidates were honored during a luncheon Feb. 27, where Rear Adm. Phillip Sawyer, COMSUBPAC, congratulated the candidates.
"You are truly the tip of the spear of the submarine force and represent us very well." he said. "I applaud what you have achieved and look forward to what you will accomplish in the future."
Both Sailors now go on to represent the Pacific submarine force in the Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet Sailor of the Year competition.
For more news from Commander, Submarine Squadron 11, visitwww.navy.mil/local/css11/.
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NNS150227-25. Commanding Officer of USS Mississippi Relieved
From Submarine Force Pacific Fleet Public Affairs
PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii (NNS) -- The commanding officer (CO) of the Pearl Harbor-based fast attack submarine USS Mississippi (SSN 782) was relieved of his duties Feb. 27 due to a loss of confidence in his ability to command.
Cmdr. Tory Swanson was removed from his position by Captain Harry Ganteaume, Commander, Submarine Squadron 1, based at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam.
A command investigation into the circumstances leading to Swanson's relief is ongoing.
Swanson, who had served aboard Mississippi since April 2013, has been administratively reassigned to the staff of Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet, at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii.
For more news from Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/local/subpac/.
NNS150302-19. Current All Hands Update
From Defense Media Activity - Navy
WASHINGTION (NNS) -- All Hands Update features three one-minute newscasts today.
First one-minute newscast-
- Headlines for Monday, March 2, 2015: USS Fort Worth Practices Code for Unplanned Encounters at Sea With Chinese Navy; MCPON Testifies Before Congress
http://youtu.be/JeNtztV7nLU
http://www.navy.mil/viewVideo.
Second one-minute newscast-
- Civil Engineer Corps Celebrates 148 Years
http://youtu.be/aDvB6EOJdXM
http://www.navy.mil/viewVideo.
Third one-minute newscast-
- United Through Reading Keeps Families Together During Deployments
http://youtu.be/TXDPA7kTtV0
http://www.navy.mil/viewVideo.
Defense Media Activity-Navy produces All Hands Update (AHU) newscasts each day. AHU can be seen throughout the day and evening on the Direct-to-Sailor (DTS)satellite television service available aboard 160 ships of the fleet and via the Navy Web site at www.navy.mil. Check your local DTS program schedule for air times. AHU can also be seen throughout the world on the American Forces Radio and Television Service (AFRTS).
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NNS011215-04. This Day in Naval History - March 02
From Naval History and Heritage Command, Communication and Outreach Division
1859 - USS Saginaw launches from Mare Island, Calif. The steamer is the first US Navy ship built on the West Coast.
1867 - The Civil Engineer Corps is established by Congress.
1945 - USS Bowfin (SS 287) sinks Japanese transport Chokai Maru, and patrol bombers PB4Y-2 (VPB 119) sink transport Nichirin Maru in East China Sea.
1952 - During the Korean War, USS Endicott (DMS 35) silences enemy guns on the east coast of Chuuronjang, Korea in a counter-battery engagement.
1973 - The first four female U.S. Navy pilots begin training. The women are: Lt. j.g. Barbara A. Allen; Lt. j.g Judith A. Neuffer; Ensign Jane M. Skiles and Ensign Kathleen L. McNary.
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Navy News Service is the official news wire service of the U.S. Navy, containing stories recently posted to the Navy Web site at www.navy.mil. It is a product of the Defense Media Navy - 6700 Taylor Rd., Fort Meade, MD 20755. Reprints should be credited to the Navy News Service (NNS).
For the latest in Navy news from around the fleet, visit www.navy.mil.
For all Navy-related questions, review the FAQs posted at www.navy.mil or visit www.history.navy.mil.
Media queries should be directed to the Navy News Desk at (703) 697-5342.
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-- http://www.navy.mil/search/
NNS150302-27. Vice CNO Kicks Off Women's History Month at USNA
-- http://www.navy.mil/search/
NNS150302-24. Northwest Sailors Participate in Military Saves Week
-- http://www.navy.mil/search/
NNS150302-23. SURFPAC Announces 2014 Sea and Shore Sailors of the Year
-- http://www.navy.mil/search/
NNS150302-21. Liberty Policy Update Expands CO's Authority
-- http://www.navy.mil/search/
NNS150302-20. Museum Tea Party Commemorates Treaty of Ghent, War of 1812
-- http://www.navy.mil/search/
NNS150302-18. "Infanteria de Marina" Celebrate Their 478th Birthday Aboard USNS Spearhead
-- http://www.navy.mil/search/
NNS150302-17. New Naval War College Joint Military Operations Chair Lays Out Vision
-- http://www.navy.mil/search/
NNS150302-14. CNP Announces MPT&E SOY
-- http://www.navy.mil/search/
NNS150302-10. U.S., Japan Increase Warfighting Capabilities through Fleet Synthetic Training
-- http://www.navy.mil/search/
NNS150302-09. U.S. Naval Forces Central Command Celebrates Navy Reserve Centennial Anniversary
-- http://www.navy.mil/search/
NNS150302-07. JMSDF Band Receives Prestigious Howard Citation
-- http://www.navy.mil/search/
NNS150302-06. Team Carl Vinson Sailors Run ML5K
-- http://www.navy.mil/search/
NNS150302-05. Malaysian Armed Forces and Delegates Visit USS Bonhomme Richard
-- http://www.navy.mil/search/
NNS150302-04. Navy Region Japan Installations Honored for Energy Efficiency
-- http://www.navy.mil/search/
NNS150302-03. Bonhomme Richard Sailors and Marines Partner with Community for Community Relations Project
-- http://www.navy.mil/search/
NNS150302-01. Submarine Force U.S. Pacific Fleet Sailors of the Year Announced
-- http://www.navy.mil/search/
NNS150227-25. Commanding Officer of USS Mississippi Relieved
-- http://www.navy.mil/search/
DNU -- In today's edition of All Hands Update, USS Fort Worth practiced Code for Unplanned Encounters at Sea, or CUES, with the Chinese Navy and MCPON Mike Stevens testifies before congress alongside senior leaders from other military branches to discuss current status of their respective branches.
-- http://www.navy.mil/viewVideo.
DNU -- The Navy's Civil Engineers Corps, or CEC, celebrates 148 years of designing, constructing and maintaining shore facilities for the Navy worldwide.
-- http://www.navy.mil/viewVideo.
DNU -- United Through Reading program helps families keep in touch during deployments.
-- http://www.navy.mil/viewVideo.
NNS150302-19. Current All Hands Update
-- http://www.navy.mil/search/
NNS011215-04. This Day in Naval History - March 02
-- http://www.navy.mil/search/
Eye on the Fleet - U.S. Navy Photo of The Day
-- http://www.navy.mil/list_
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NNS150302-26. Navy Reserve Celebrates Centennial Anniversary
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class(SCW/SW/AW) Jonathan Pankau, Defense Media Activity
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Service members and civilians packed the Pentagon Library Conference Center for the Navy Reserve Centennial Kickoff Celebration March 2.
Chief of Navy Reserve Vice Adm. Robin R. Braun delivered the opening remarks, commending Navy Reserve Sailors for being ready then, ready now and ready always, and introduced Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Jonathan Greenert, the centennial's keynote speaker.
"Serving through the Cold War, I've seen the Navy Reserve go from a group of 'One day we may need them, let's hold on to them. That's our strategic reserve,'... to integration, to addiction in Desert Shield/Desert Storm,... to really, frankly, total integration today," Greenert said.
Greenert and Braun visited the U.S. Navy Reserve displays set up in the Pentagon's Navy corridor after the opening ceremony and performed the cake and ribbon cutting.
"All 59,000 Sailors are very proud to celebrate the history and the heritage of our service and especially to highlight the millions who have served over the past century," said Braun.
Congress authorized the establishment of the Federal Naval Reserve on March 3, 1915. Initially, the only Sailors eligible to enroll were enlisted Navy veterans. On Aug. 29, 1916, with the prospect of America's entry into World War I looming, the Navy Reserve reorganized to allow the enrollment of non-veterans and designated as the U.S. Naval Reserve Force.
Since Sept. 11, 2001, there have been more than 70,000 Selected Reserve mobilizations, along with an additional 4,500 deployments by Full Time Support Sailors, including more than 8,000 who have done a second combat tour. Since its establishment in 1915, there have been five U.S. presidents who have served in the Navy Reserve.
For more information on the Navy Reserve, search Navy.mil or visithttps://www.navyreserve.navy.
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NNS150302-27. Vice CNO Kicks Off Women's History Month at USNA
By Mass Communications Specialist 3rd Class Nathan Wilkes, U.S. Naval Academy Public Affairs
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (NNS) -- Adm. Michelle Howard, vice chief of Naval Operations, spoke with U.S. Naval Academy midshipmen during a Women's History Month kickoff celebration in Laboon Hall March 2.
The event, hosted by the Naval Academy's Joy Bright Hancock Organization, gave a unique opportunity for midshipmen and officers on the Yard to learn about prominent female role models throughout history from the Navy's highest-ranking female officer. More than 100 midshipmen attended the event.
"Today is the kickoff for Women's History Month, and we are honored to have Adm. Michelle Howard here to speak to the midshipmen and help us begin our celebration," said Lt. Stephen McCartney, USNA assistant chief diversity officer.
The theme for this year is "Weaving the Stories of Women's Lives." During the event, Howard shared her story as well as the stories of prominent female figures throughout history.
"Women's History Month provides a great opportunity to reflect on the important figures who came before us and made an impact on the world," said Howard, a 1982 Naval Academy grad, and the first female four-star in U.S. naval history. "It's important for us to know about these people who made such a difference, and events like these give me the opportunity to share the stories of some of my favorites."
During the presentation, Howard shared the stories of influential women throughout history including Kady Brownell, Hedy Lamarr, Capt. Winifred Quick Collins, Stephanie Kwolek, and Rear Adm. Katherine Gregory. She also shared a few of her own personal experiences while attending the academy and in the fleet.
"I think this was a great way to kick off the month, and I especially enjoyed when Adm. Howard was able to tie in her own experiences that she had with her classmates," said Midshipman 4th Class David Perez. "It's important that midshipmen take advantage of the vast wealth of experience that is offered here at the academy and use it to become better leaders."
For this year's Women's History Month, JBHO plans to work on building camaraderie between the female officers on the Yard and female midshipman as well as discuss the future of women's roles in the military.
"Adm. Howard is a true inspiration to all of us, and to have her kick off Women's History Month with us here at the Naval Academy, was an awesome experience," said Midshipman 2nd Class Nicole Fasolino. "I learned a lot from the presentation, and I hope that other midshipmen are able to attend the events we have scheduled for this month and take away important lessons that they can carry into their daily lives as leaders."
The Joy Bright Hancock Organization began as the only women's organization at the U. S. Naval Academy, and has since expanded to engage in gender-neutral issues. Though its mission has adapted over time, it continues to bring female midshipmen together to discuss and address issues related to balancing personal and career choices.
For more news from U.S. Naval Academy, visit www.navy.mil/local/usna/.
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NNS150302-24. Northwest Sailors Participate in Military Saves Week
By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Jeffry Willadsen, NPASE Det. Everett, and Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Charles Gaddis, NPASE Det Northwest
EVERETT, Wash. (NNS) -- Fleet and Family Support Centers (FFSC) at Naval Station Everett (NSE) and Naval Base Kitsap Bangor promoted fiscal responsibility and retirement during Military Saves Week, Feb. 23-27.
Military Saves Week, inspired by the America Saves campaign, is an annual campaign designed to educate the Navy community on how to save, build wealth, prevent debt, and promote overall financial responsibility.
"We aren't born knowing how to manage our money," said Kahlia Sullen, a personal financial management specialist for NSE's FFSC. "Financial responsibility is something we have to learn."
Each year, the Navy promotes Military Saves Week through a variety of events and initiatives. This year, the campaign on NSE comprised two major components: manned information booths in NSE's Commons Building and Smokey Point Naval Support Center, and a Million Dollar Sailor class.
At Naval Base Kitsap, a guest speaker addressed those in attendance.
"I'm proud to be a service member advocate and I appreciate all the things they do for our country," said Holly Petraeus, assistant director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB).
The purpose of the booths was to inform Sailors and their families about the value of saving money and taking control of their financial future. Members of NSE's FFSC made themselves available during the week to discuss financial issues with Sailors and give them information about debt reduction, saving, and sound financial management.
"One main thing we are trying to do is help reduce the financial stress on Sailors," said Sullen. "This way, they can be less bogged down by financial worries. It also causes them to be more productive Sailors, increasing operational readiness in the process."
The Million Dollar Sailor class, that spanned three days and included 12 course modules, was a more in-depth and involved look at financial issues concerning Sailors. Topics included debt management, consumer awareness, car buying, home buying, saving, investing, and retirement planning.
"The course is designed to target our younger Sailors," said Sullen, who facilitated the course. "We want to catch them early, and try to prevent financial hardship in their future."
Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 3rd Class Amanda Coleman, a native of Wauconda, Illinois, said she attended the Million Dollar Sailor class because she wanted to learn how to financial prepare for having a baby later this year.
"I learned a lot," said Coleman. "I personally think that anyone who has a chance to should take a class like this. If they are secure financially or not, I think that everyone should take this class at least once."
According to Sullen, she always gets positive feedback about the content of the class and the resources it provides.
"People tell me that they learn a lot of things they didn't know about before," Sullen said.
"I hope service members become more mindful of their money and pay more attention to their finances," said Petraeus. "There are many businesses waiting to prey on our military."
Another component of Military Saves Week is the Saver Pledge. Throughout the week, Sailors and their family members were encouraged to go online and take the pledge to save their money, reduce debt, and encourage their family, friends, and shipmates to do the same.
For more information on Military Saves Week, or the Save Pledge, go tohttp://www.militarysaves.org.
For more news from Navy Public Affairs Support Element West, Det. Northwest, visit www.navy.mil/local/nwpacen/.
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NNS150302-23. SURFPAC Announces 2014 Sea and Shore Sailors of the Year
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Zachary Bell,
Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet Public Affairs Officer
SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- The staff of Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet (SURFPAC) announced the 2014 SURFPAC Sea and Shore Sailors of the Year (SOY) during a banquet at the Admiral Kidd Catering and Conference Center in San Diego, Feb. 27.
Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 1st Class Petty Officer (AW/SW) David C. Dysart, USS Makin Island (LHD 8); was named the Sea SOY, and Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Fuels) 1st Class (AW/SW) Joseph C. Mathews, USS America (LHA 6), was named Shore SOY.
Spouses, command leadership teams, distinguished military guests and community supporters attended the ceremony where the Senior Sailors of the Year for each SURFPAC sea and shore commands were also recognized during the event which was sponsored by the Surface Navy Association.
Dysart hails from St. Joseph, Missouri, and entered the Navy on Nov. 17, 2003. He completed the Airman Apprenticeship Training Core Course in Pensacola, Florida, and began his shore tour at instructor duty with Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 3 at Naval Station North Island. His sea commands includes USS Nimitz (CVN 68) and USS Makin Island (LHD 8), where he is currently assigned as the Air Department leading petty officer (LPO).
"The Sailors that I lead and the Sailors who helped me to this position are the main reason I have won this great honor," said Dysart. "I never thought I would make it this far as a three year airmen, I am just elated to have come this far in my career and be blessed with such a high honor."
Mathews, a native of Hayward, California, entered the Navy in June 2003. He graduated from "A" School in October 2003 at Naval Air Technical Training Center (NATTC) in Pensacola, Florida. His shore tour includes an assignment to Naval Air Station Whidbey Island as the Fuels LPO. His sea commands include USS Essex (LHD 2), USS Nimitz (CVN 68) and USS America (LHA 6), where he is currently assigned as the Air Department LPO and V4 Division's Maintenance LPO.
"It's amazing to be able to represent my command; I feel great about it and it has been such a humbling experience," said McArthur. "I am ecstatic at having won and it is an absolute honor going forward and representing the eight individuals who were my competition but who are now my friends."
Seven finalists took part in board interviews, command events and a series of community outreach activities, which included meeting with Pearl Harbor survivors, a visit to USS Midway Museum, and the San Diego Zoo. The finalists also attended professional development sessions at SURFPAC headquarters.
"We are here to recognize these Sailors' outstanding service," said SURFPAC Force Master Chief Jason Wallis. "They should be extremely proud of their accomplishments and the fact that their commands recognized their hard work and have lead them to this path puts them one step away from putting on anchors."
Dysart and Mathews will now compete in Hawaii against Pacific Fleet nominees vying for the Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet (COMPACFLT) Shore and Sea SOY titles. The sea and shore-based commands of COMPACFLT represent more than 200,000 Sailors. The top COMPACFLT Sea Sailor will be eligible for meritorious promotion to chief petty officer and the Shore SOY will move on to competition in Washington, D.C., for possible designation as the 2014 Chief of Naval Operations Shore SOY.
For more news from Naval Surface Forces, visit www.navy.mil/local/cnsp/.
For more news from Commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet, visit www.public.navy.mil/surfor or follow the Surface Force atwww.facebook.com/
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NNS150302-21. Liberty Policy Update Expands CO's Authority
From Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Navy liberty policy revisions announced March 2, and outlined in MILPERSMAN 1050-290 provide commanding officers with greater clarification and authority to manage their people and meet mission requirements.
Consistent with Chief of Naval Personnel's goal to provide more authority back to command triads and allow for more effective management of their people, the revised policy expands descriptions of when special liberty may be appropriate, including for compassionate reasons.
Those examples include granting special liberty after extended deployments or time away from homeport, to reward exceptional performance, allow for Sailors to attend a funeral of a family member or assist one dealing with serious illness or injury, or any special occasion or circumstance determined by the commanding officer.
Leaders will also be able to establish their own "out of bounds" for liberty and special liberty and modify it as operational requirements dictate.
What's not changed is that special liberty may not exceed four days, or be combined with normal liberty or special holidays to allow for an absence exceeding four days. Sailors combining regular leave with special liberty still must start and finish leave at their home station or port.
The revised MILPERSMAN 1050-290 can be reviewed atwww.npc.navy.mil.
For more news from Chief of Naval Personnel, visitwww.navy.mil/local/cnp/.
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NNS150302-20. Museum Tea Party Commemorates Treaty of Ghent, War of 1812
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Shannon M. Smith, Navy Public Affairs Support Element, East
NORFOLK (NNS) -- Visitors got a taste, literally, of the culture and society of 1815 during a tea party at the Hampton Roads Naval Museum Feb. 22.
The museum, in conjunction with the United States Daughters of 1812, the Norfolk Historical Society, and the Regency Society of Virginia, hosted "Make Tea not War: A Tea Commemorating the Treaty of Ghent", commemorating the end of the War of 1812.
Attendees were transported back in time to 1815 Norfolk through conversations with costumed re-enactors while music played on the Irish harp.
"It (the tea party) takes something like the Treaty of Ghent, that ended the War of 1812 some two hundred years ago, and brings it to life," said Lee Duckworth, HRNM's director of education. "And having re-enactors here to talk about what culture was like, what society was like, what it was like on the home-front, what some of the Sailors went through in that time, just brings it all together."
Re-enactor Stacy Weissner, a founder of the Regency Society of Virginia, said she loves feeling as though she's living a piece of history through events like the tea party.
"History is basically one big story, and it's great to have fun with it and not just study it," said Weissner. "You find out things you can't find out in a book. I can't find out in a book what it's like to be in stays (a corset)... there are various aspects of the period that until you try to walk in their shoes, quite literally, you just couldn't find out otherwise."
Many of the Regency Society members hand-sewed elements of their costumes for authenticity as well as researched talking points for the tea tables through old letters, newspapers, and books about the time period.
The Treaty of Ghent, signed in Belgium, and ratified by the U.S. Senate Feb. 18, 1815, formally ended the War of 1812 between the United States of America and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland. The war served to establish the United States as a lasting world power, causing some historians to view it as the "Second War for American Independence."
"The lasting impact of that war is in many ways greater than the actual war, for as you've also heard, many of the symbols and successes of America, and especially the United States Navy, were born in that conflict," said Ray Mabus, secretary of the Navy, during his remarks at the bicentennial event in 2012 commemorating the anniversary of the war.
Some of those symbols, including the famous saying, "Don't give up the ship," and the creation of the "Star-Spangled Banner," highlight the way the war embedded itself into U.S. history.
"I think it's important not only for Sailors in the Navy, but for the local populace here in the Hampton Roads area to understand what took place, what it was like to live during the war of 1812," said Duckworth.
The event also served as an opportunity for some members of the international community to learn about the region's history through the volunteer efforts of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) youth ambassadors.
The youth ambassadors, dependent children of officers stationed at NATO Headquarters in Norfolk, volunteer at various activities and organizations to fulfill community service requirements for high school diplomas and scholarships in the United States.
"Because they are military, they have traveled around; they have a little more poise," said Trish Carrier, executive director of the Norfolk NATO Festival. "But they're learning about other cultures, not just American, and they're true ambassadors because they're learning a lot about us, but then people learn about them in return."
Students from Germany, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, France, Greece and Canada participated in the HRNM event by serving the tea and cookies to the guests.
"It's nice to just sit down and serve tea and just talk with people. I like that," said Noor Assa, 15, originally from the Netherlands. "Usually, we're behind the scenes, with no people around; now, we're really doing stuff where the people see us. I want to know what people think, their opinions about things."
For the participants, organizers, and volunteers, the tea party provided a unique chance to bring history to life in a more interactive and digestible format, while highlighting Hampton Roads as a crux for military activity.
"People have always been affected by what goes on with the Navy and what goes on with the port here, and in that, we aren't so far removed from that," said Weissner. "We're very tied to the water and what happens there, and it's comforting in a way to know that this area has always thrived on that, it's nice to have an area that is saturated in that Naval history and proud of it."
The museum introduces visitors to more than 239 years of U.S. naval history in the Hampton Roads area. One of 10 officially operated U.S. Navy museums reporting to the Naval History and Heritage Command in Washington, D.C., the HRNM houses a rich collection of authentic uniforms, weaponry, underwater artifacts, detailed ship models and artwork. For more information on the museum and their upcoming events, visit www.hrnm.navy.mil.
For more news from Navy Public Affairs Support Element, East, visitwww.navy.mil/local/
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NNS150302-18. "Infanteria de Marina" Celebrate Their 478th Birthday Aboard USNS Spearhead
By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Joshua Davies, Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet Public Affairs
GULF OF GUINEA (NNS) -- Members of the Spanish "Infanteria de Marina" or Spanish navy marines celebrated their service's 478th birthday, while aboard the Military Sealift Command joint high-speed vessel USNS Spearhead (JHSV 1) Feb. 27.
Five Spanish navy marines are aboard Spearhead to support Africa Partnership Station 2015, enhancing training capabilities and interoperability with the other 21 partner nation participants.
"It is my pleasure to have members of the oldest marine corps in the world aboard," said Spearhead's Ship's Master Douglas Casavant. "I feel honored as a ship's captain to have such precious cargo onboard and look forward to getting to know more about their nation and service."
"I am delighted to share in such a great and historic moment in the Spanish marine's history," said Africa Partnership Station 2015 mission commander Cmdr. Matthew Flemming.
Formed in 1537 by Charles I of Spain, the Spanish navy marines claim the title of the oldest marine corps in the world. The Spanish navy marines are Spain's premier amphibious landing assault force. The distinguished marine force has seen action all over the world, including Santo Domingo (1804), Cuba (1898), and Morocco (1911).
Living up to its proud history, the "Infanteria de Marina" is a highly capable modern force with various specialties including artillery, rotary-wing aircraft and a special operations force.
The Spanish navy marines continue in their role as an elite amphibious force with a presence in Europe, Central America and Asia operating as an emergency evacuation force for civilians and capable deterrent to aggression.
For more news from Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/local/naveur/.
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NNS150302-17. New Naval War College Joint Military Operations Chair Lays Out Vision
By Daniel L. Kuester, U.S. Naval War College Public Affairs
NEWPORT, R.I. (NNS) -- The U.S. Naval War College (NWC), Newport, Rhode Island, has named Capt. Richard LaBranche as new chair of the Joint Military Operations (JMO) department.
LaBranche, who came to NWC in 2013 after serving as commander, Carrier Air Wing 17 aboard the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), sees his current tour as an opportunity to focus on the needs of the warfighter.
"We want the course to be relevant to the warfighter," said LaBranche. "The course is strong, but like everything, there is always room for improvement."
The JMO department curriculum prepares future military and civilian leaders for high-level policy, command and staff positions requiring joint planning expertise and joint warfighting skills. It emphasizes the theory and practice of operational art as it relates to maritime and joint forces.
LaBranche says he is energized in his new position. He knows the department has a strong reputation, but he hopes to make it stronger.
"My job is to make sure that I leave the place better than I got it, if that is possible," said LaBranche. "It is an honor to be here, also humbling. I just want to make sure the curriculum continues to improve on my watch."
To keep the course strong, LaBranche says the curriculum must change as the warfighters' environment continues to change.
"A long time ago, we had only a surface domain [for warfighting]," said LaBranche. "Tall ships, cannon balls and getting into position to fire were the goals. Then much later we got subs, so we had to teach about that. Then air power became important.
"Now we add cyber. To be relevant, we must now focus and expand upon naval capabilities writ large, and teach tactics that integrate all maritime power. In this way, we will better prepare our students for operational level warfare to meet national security challenges as a member of the joint team."
LaBranche also hopes to broaden perspectives of the students by providing them with an education and not simply training.
"Training is preparation for the known. Education is preparation for the unknown," said LaBranche. "As a fighter pilot, I had been trained on tactics for my whole life. I learned about things like missile ranges, speed of aircraft, threat capabilities, and everything else I had to know. All my training in my adult lifetime had been for the known.
"When I came here [as a student in 2001], I started to ask 'Why?' [and] I started to ask, 'What is the intent of what we are doing?'
"The difference between this place and every other place in the Navy is that this place provides an education."
For more information on the NWC's JMO curriculum, visithttp://www.usnwc.edu/jmo.
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NNS150302-14. CNP Announces MPT&E SOY
By Scott A. Thornbloom, Naval Service Training Command Public Affairs Office
GREAT LAKES, Ill. (NNS) -- Intelligence Specialist 1st Class Johnetta Heckard was selected as the 2014 Chief of Naval Personnel/Manpower, Personnel, Training and Education (MPT&E) Sailor of the Year (SOY) at a luncheon ceremony held in the Port O' Call Banquet and Conference Center on Naval Station Great Lakes here, Feb. 27.
There were three MPT&E SOY finalists this year that included Heckard from Navy Personnel Command (NPC) in Millington, Tennessee., the NPC SOY; Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Sharon N. Barker, from Recruit Training Command (RTC), Great Lakes, Illinois, and the Naval Education and Training Command (NETC) SOY; and Navy Counselor 1st Class Ryan A. Blackmer, from Navy Recruiting District Michigan in Detroit, and the Navy Recruiting Command (NRC) SOY.
The announcement was made at the luncheon by Chief of Naval Personnel (CNP), Vice Adm. William F. Moran, who oversees all commands in the MPT&E domain.
"This process is about much more than simply picking a winner, 'Sailor of the Year' allows us to pause and reflect on service, humility and the importance of recognizing excellence," said Moran.
"It is honor to be part of this celebration, to get to know these Sailors and to meet with the leaders who nominated them, leaders recognizing leadership and the very best talent in our Navy. I'm incredibly proud and humbled by the quality of our Sailors at all levels in our Navy, and particularly impressed by the quality of these Sailors of the Year and the impact they are having in the lives of Sailors all around the fleet."
As MPT&E finalists Barker, Blackmer and Heckard began their SOY week participating in an interview process conducted by CNP Fleet Master Chief April Beldo and MPT&E domain force master chief petty officers. During the week they toured a number of commands on the "Quarterdeck of the Navy" at Naval Station Great Lakes.
During their tours at these training commands they were given an opportunity to mentor Sailors at Training Support Center (TPC) Great Lakes and recruits at the Navy's only boot camp, RTC Great Lakes. They toured where recruits conduct their final capstone event of boot camp, Battle Stations, the culmination of their boot camp training on board the Navy's largest ship simulator, the 210-foot-long replica of an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer, USS Trayer (BST 21).
They also observed the weekly Pass-In-Review graduation, Feb. 27, in the Midway Ceremonial Drill Hall. There they joined more than 1,000 parents, relatives and loved ones to watch as 599 recruits graduated and became United States Navy Sailors.
The group was also given a day to take in numerous Chicago attractions Feb. 25, including the German submarine U-505 at the Museum of Science and Industry, the 103rd floor Skydeck of the Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower), Pritzker Military Library and Navy Pier. And they were the guests of honor of the National Basketball League's Chicago Bulls and were joined by CNP Moran at the game between the Bulls and Charlotte Hornets at the Bulls' home stadium, the United Center.
Before the game on the Bulls home floor, the Sailors were given an on-court salute by the Bulls organization and met several players from each team, including Hall of Fame center and former New York Knick Patrick Ewing, now a coach for the Hornets. The group took cell phone "selfies" with Ewing at center court and had an official photo taken after being welcomed by the team's Vice President of Basketball Operations and former Bulls championship guard, John Paxson.
"Ten years ago when I joined and I walked through the gates of boot camp, I never thought that I could be here," said Barker, from Brooklyn, New York. "It's been a very humbling experience. This whole week, we've toured Chicago and it's been amazing. Being at a Bulls game was something I wanted to do before transferring and getting that opportunity has been awesome. I can't wait to go back and tell the stories to my junior Sailors."
Heckard said she was very humbled by her selection and the entire process. "I feel overwhelmed right now, humbled, thankful for the opportunity, and kind of shocked that my name was called. It was kind of like an 'are you sure'-type moment," said Heckard, 31, from Toledo, Ohio, who is the junior enlisted intelligence specialist detailer at NPC.
"For the most part I'm just humbled and thankful to just even be part of this and then to be recognized and selected as MPT&E Sailor of the Year has been overwhelming."
Heckard credited her command, her mentors and Sailors that work for and with her for getting the 13-year Sailor this far into the annual competition. Her next step will be to go through the Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Shore Sailor of the Year competition in Washington, D.C. If she is selected, she will automatically promote to chief petty officer.
"The opportunities I've had to be mentored and to mentor, I think, has really helped me become a better Sailor," said Heckard. "I've always believed that if you keep your focus, keep your eye on the prize or on your goals, everything will work out," said Heckard. "The whole week has been amazing and it should always take place here at Great Lakes."
Fleet Master Chief Beldo called the entire week an outstanding event and said it was once again very special to have the week at Great Lakes, bringing the finalists back to "The Quarterdeck of the Navy".
"It was all about having a good time and recognizing them for the hard work they've done and making sure that they know as leadership we do appreciate everything they do to get to this point in their careers," said Beldo.
"During the week it was awesome watching them mentor our junior Sailors and recruits at TSC and RTC, they got to have some fun in Chicago and they remained humble and very professional the entire week. For me it was very exciting," said Beldo, who has served as command master chief at both RTC and at Naval Service Training Command (NSTC) headquarters on Naval Station Great Lakes.
Beldo said bringing the finalists back to Great Lakes was an opportunity to remind them where their Navy careers began. She said most of the finalists have been in the Navy now for 10 years and coming back to Great Lakes was an opportunity to reacquaint the finalists, the other force master chiefs from the MPT&E domain and supporting staff with the training at the "A" Schools and, in particular, the training being conducted today at boot camp.
"None of the three finalists have been back to boot camp since they graduated from here," said Beldo. "All of them said they were refreshed and motivated being back here. I asked them to get the word back to the fleet about how the recruit division commanders (RDCs) and officer leaders are getting the job done and turning civilians into Sailors. That job is getting done and these three finalists saw that this week."
The CNP Fleet Master Chief said she believes whenever there is an opportunity to bring fleet Sailors back to RTC, it should be taken and Sailors should return.
"This SOY week was perfect to bring these Sailors back to see the changes in training and then they can take what they saw back to their commands in the fleet and let their commands know that the group of trainers, instructors, facilitators, RDCs and CNRC (Commander, Navy Recruiting Command) folks are all do
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NNS150302-10. U.S., Japan Increase Warfighting Capabilities through Fleet Synthetic Training
By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Ricardo R. Guzman, USS George Washington Public Affairs
YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) -- U.S. and Japan forces participated in a four-day Fleet Synthetic Training-Joint (FST-J) exercise, Feb. 23-27.
FST-J provided training to personnel from Commander, Task Force 70, U.S. Army and Air Force and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) and Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) in strike force level proficiency, operations, joint interoperability and mission rehearsal for ships, aviation, and submarine simulators.
"This is a joint and bilateral synthetic training exercise," said Lt. Cmdr. Phillip Moore, CTF 70's ballistic missile defense (BMD) officer. "We're working very closely with our regional ally, Japan, and are currently practicing and conducting our periodic certifications of BMD - tactics, techniques and procedures in a realistic, multi-warfare environment."
Training exercises are conducted using models and simulations to replicate real-world command and control systems, which allow units to develop operator-level proficiency and validation of tactics, techniques and procedures prior to participation's of real-world events or joint training exercises.
"FST-J provides an excellent opportunity for Japan Self-Defense Force (JSDF) and U.S. forces to operate in a complex and multi-warfare tactical environment," said Lt. j.g. Weston Ford, BMD officer aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS John S. McCain (DDG 56). "Ultimately, this will enhance our bilateral relations and interoperability between the U.S. and JSDF when defending against hostile threats."
The U.S. and Japanese forces encountered computer-generated environmental conditions, political state of affairs and foreign military provocations without having to operate at sea.
"In the past, FST-J training has been more focused on executing the BMD mission from a ship's perspective," said Moore. "We have expanded BMD training this year to include as many of the players who we have to interact with when we execute an actual mission."
FST-J enables the Navy and its allies in different geographical areas to gain training efficiencies at sea by conducting training exercises and synthetic pierside scenarios, and plays a vital role in the qualification, readiness and interoperability of the strike group and its host nation.
"Synthetic training provides us the unique opportunity to fully exercise not only our shipboard capabilities, but the combined capabilities of the U.S. and Japan bi-lateral force," said Cmdr. Chad Graham, John S. McCain's executive officer.
CTF 70 (Carrier Strike Group 5) is embarked aboard the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) and includes Carrier Air Wing 5, Aegis cruisers USS Shiloh (CG 67) and USS Antietam (CG 54) and Destroyer Squadron 15. Together, these units form the U.S. Navy's only continuously forward deployed (and largest) carrier strike group and are critical combat elements of the U.S. 7th Fleet.
For more news from Commander Task Force 70, visitwww.navy.mil/local/ctf70/.
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NNS150302-09. U.S. Naval Forces Central Command Celebrates Navy Reserve Centennial Anniversary
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Sean Furey, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command Public Affairs
U.S. 5th Fleet Area of Operations (NNS) -- For the past 100 years Reserve Sailors have served as a critical part of our Navy, providing a surge force in the event of a crisis, acting as a reliable source to augment existing staff for major exercises and operations.
Together, Reserve and active duty Sailors are fully integrated, truly representing a one team one fight spirit. There's never a better time to recognize the need for Reservist in our force than now, the Navy Reserve Centennial celebration.
The United States Navy Reserve, established March 3, 1915, was originally the effort of former Secretary of the Navy Josephus Daniels and his assistant Franklin D. Roosevelt. That same year, the 1915 Naval Appropriations Act created the Navy Reserve.
By the end of World War I, nearly 60,000 Reserve Sailors had been mobilized and through World War II, Korea, Vietnam and the Gulf Wars, the Navy Reserve has continued to answer every call. In fact more than 65,000 Reserve Sailors have been mobilized since 9/11.
Here in the U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) area of operations (AOO), individual Reserve Sailors, Reserve unit commanding officers, operational support officers and Navy Operation Support Centers all work together with supporting units to determine mission requirements to better match manpower resources with availability, allowing Reserve Sailors to integrate seamlessly with active duty components.
"The active duty side of NAVCENT sets the Reserve requirements and has always been extremely involved in doing so," said Capt. Samual D. Pontier, NAVCENT, operational support officer. "This ensures Reservists are gainfully employed when they come here to the area of operations and are properly trained in the positions that needs to be filled, which ultimately ensures the mission is accomplished."
Reserve Sailors may serve from only a few weeks a year up to full-time support. This can prove challenging for the individual Sailor due to civilian job and family responsibilities.
"Unique to the Reserves is their civilian job and family, that's often not apparent on the active side," said Rear Adm. Luke M. McCollum, vice commander, NAVCENT. "Every time that I'm with a group of Navy Reservists, I always ask how many of them had to say no to a family obligation to be here. Almost half of them always raise their hand. We try to recognize the families back home when there are short notice call-ups to make sure that they feel like they are part of service."
In an active area like NAVCENT's AOO, continuity is key in achieving the mission. With many active duty Sailors only serving one to two year tours, turnover rate is high which means that information may not get passed to incoming personnel. That is where the nearly 200 reservists in Bahrain and more than 400 total reservists in the AOO come into play.
"The Reserves brings multiple years of continuity to operations in the NAVCENT area of operations," said McCollum. "They are able to come in and provide continuity during times of turnover and they are also able to augment manpower during large exercises like the recently completed International Mine Countermeasures Exercise."
Another advantage that the Reserves add to the fleet is the ability to implement their civilian working knowledge seamlessly into the active duty side of the Navy. Reservists diversify and broaden the ways we do things in our force. In fact, many reservists have graduate-level educations, some are senior executives in a fortune 500 company and some even run their own businesses.
"We, in the Reserve component, are completely indistinguishable from the active duty Sailors. We are embedded in our commands, executing the same duties and responsibilities as our active counterparts," said Capt. Richard Henderson, chief of staff, Task Force - Individual Augmentee. "We are trained military professionals ready to answer the nation's need when called upon. We also bring professional expertise from a wide spectrum of civilian occupations that broadens perspectives in accomplishing the COMUSNAVCENT mission."
Reserve Sailors assist in the U.S. 5th Fleet AOO in many different aspects such as cyber warfare, public affairs support and medical assistance, to name a few. They excel alongside their active duty counterparts.
"We have Reservists who provide highly specialized medical care for joint U.S. service members, Afghan locals and Coalition," said Yeoman Senior Chief Desiree S. Hayes, NAVCENT, CTF-IA senior enlisted leader. "Their good work yielded the highest combat injury survival rate in modern warfare history at 98 percent."
"This is a great time to reflect on the 100 years of contribution from the Navy Reserve," said McCollum. "Even after things settle down in this area, they may escalate in another but we know we are able to deploy and place our Reserve components with active duty forces wherever the fight may need to be held."
The centennial anniversary of the Navy Reserves gives us the opportunity to look back on the accomplishments of the past and reflect on how they have added so much value to our service.
For more news from Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/5th Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/local/cusnc/.
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NNS150302-07. JMSDF Band Receives Prestigious Howard Citation
By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman David Flewellyn, Navy Public Affairs Support Element Japan
YOKOHAMA, Japan (NNS) -- Rear Adm. John Alexander, commander, Task Force 70, presented the John Philip Sousa Foundation's Colonel George S. Howard Citation to the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Band, Yokosuka, during a concert at the Minato Mirai Concert Hall in Yokohama, Feb. 27.
The John Philip Sousa Foundation is a non-profit foundation dedicated to the promotion of international understanding through the medium of band music. The foundation presents the George S. Howard Citation specifically to military bands that demonstrate particularly significant high standards of musical excellence in concert performances.
"On behalf of the United States Navy, I would like to congratulate the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Yokosuka Band in winning the Colonel George S. Howard Citation of Musical Excellence," said Alexander during a speech to the crowd of about 1,500. "The Sousa foundation presents a number of awards recognizing excellence in band performance both in the United States and abroad."
Since 1988, this award has been given out more than 80 times, but only five times to foreign military bands.
The band played a two-hour concert to an enthusiastic crowd, including a march by Sousa. Alexander presented the award to the band's conductor, Lt. Cmdr. Yoshio Higuchi, during an intermission.
"This is the first time that the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Band has won this award and after listening to their performance, I can see why they have earned this great achievement," said Alexander. "We hope that, through events like this, we will continue to strengthen our U.S.-Japan relationship."
For more news from Commander Task Force 70, visitwww.navy.mil/local/ctf70/.
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NNS150302-06. Team Carl Vinson Sailors Run ML5K
By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman D'Andre L. Roden, USS Carl Vinson Public Affairs
USS CARL VINSON, At Sea (NNS) -- In recognition of Black History Month, Sailors assigned to USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17 and Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 1 held a Martin Luther King Jr. 5K run on the Carl Vinson flight deck, March 1.
The event was coordinated by the Coalition of Sailors Against Destructive Decisions (CSADD) chapter and the command Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) department on board Carl Vinson.
"It's not just about African-Americans, it's about progress," said Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Fuels) 3rd Class Jalisa Patrick, Carl Vinson CSADD president. "We are literally out here running together, which is the main focus of the run."
More than 100 Sailors came out to show their support and run laps around the flight deck.
"The participation was amazing," Patrick said. "This is the first 5K CSADD has coordinated. MWR was a big help."
As the race kicked off, Patrick gave words of encouragement to all of the participants and joined them in the run.
USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) is conducting flight operations in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. The Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group is currently deployed to the area conducting maritime security operations, strike operations in Iraq and Syria as directed, and theater security cooperation efforts.
For more news and information about USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), log on to the official command Facebook page: www.Facebook.com\USSVINSON.
For more news from USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), visitwww.navy.mil/local/cvn70/.
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NNS150302-05. Malaysian Armed Forces and Delegates Visit USS Bonhomme Richard
By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Naomi VanDuser, USS Bonhomme Richard Public Affairs
KOTA KINABALU, Malaysia (NNS) -- Malaysian Armed Forces and delegates from the State of Sabah, Malaysia, visited the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) and the embarked 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), Feb. 27.
Participants were given the opportunity to embark Bonhomme Richard via an MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft, tour the spaces and view the ship's capabilities, observe a UH-1Y Huey Venom helicopter live-fire demonstration and a Marine raid force demonstration.
"The live-fire exercise is part of the continued relationship between the United States and Malaysian militaries," said Maj. David Loveday, 31st MEU air officer. "The focus of the event is the UH-1Y, MV-22B, and the amphibious capability that they help provide. This event was originally discussed between the Malaysian and Marine Corps leadership in an effort to build on previous engagements."
This visit marks the first port visit of a big deck amphibious ship to Malaysia in two years. The visit's purpose is meant to develop relations between the United States and Malaysian governments by both countries conducting military training together.
"This exercise is part of an enduring relationship between our nations," said Loveday. "There will be other events that allow U.S. Marines and Sailors to train with our Malaysian peers, but this was a great opportunity to visit with them in an area where the U.S. has not traditionally visited. In the future, we hope for future opportunities in this area and throughout Malaysia for the bilateral training events."
Bonhomme Richard is the flagship of the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group and, with the embarked 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, is currently deployed in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations.
Bonhomme Richard ARG is currently under the tactical command of embarked Commander, Amphibious Squadron 11, Capt. Heidi Agle and reports to Commander, Amphibious Force U.S. 7th Fleet, Rear Adm. Hugh D. Wetherald, headquartered in White Beach, Japan.
For more news from USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6), visitwww.navy.mil/local/lhd6/.
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NNS150302-04. Navy Region Japan Installations Honored for Energy Efficiency
From U.S. Naval Forces Japan Public Affairs
YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) -- The U.S. Pacific Fleet recognized Navy Region Japan installations for 2014 Secretary of the Navy Energy and Water Management achievement during a training forum at Fleet Activities Yokosuka (CFAY) Feb. 27.
Pacific Fleet Maintenance Officer Rear Adm. Alma Grocki presented CFAY, Fleet Activities Sasebo (CFAS) and the amphbious dock landing ship USS Germantown (LSD 42) with Gold Level awards for their outstanding energy programs and made remarks to training participants.
"We are trying to get information to the fleet so they can make better decisions and have more tools to use to conserve energy," said Grocki. "With the constrained resources that we have, not just money but other resources, we have to do this if we want to be an effective warfighter."
Grocki also presented Blue Level Awards, given to well-rounded energy programs, to Naval Air Facility Atsugi, Japan, Naval Support Facility Diego Garcia, Fleet Activities Okinawa, Japan, and Naval Air Facility Misawa, Japan.
Awardees spoke of a cultural shift brewing in the Navy, critical to efficient support of forward deployed naval forces (FDNF).
"What we can do is try to create a culture of energy awareness and a culture of energy conservation. And that, as much as any of the material things we've done is really what has helped us lower our energy impact. We've got to keep that culture going of not just going green, but saving the resources we have," said CFAY Commanding Officer Capt. Dave Glenister.
"Fleet Activities Sasebo is keenly focused on energy and water conservation, as demonstrated by four consecutive years of Gold Level of Achievement. We owe this to our superb facilities planners and the Sailors, employees and families who are actively engaged in protecting these precious resources," said CFAS Commanding Officer Capt. Matthew Ovios.
Deputy Regional Engineer Capt. Nick Merry, and leaders from Naval Sea Systems Command, Naval Air Systems Command, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command, Commander, Submarine Force U.S. Pacific Fleet and Naval Facilities Engineering Command also spoke at the forum. These commands led breakout training sessions in the afternoon. Training discussions focused on sharing ideas and technologies various commands have used to become more efficient with their energy use.
"As the fleet becomes more and more aware of conserving energy, we're finding people are very excited about this. Sailors are people that have great imaginations and great initiative and they come up with things on their own about how to save energy," said Grocki.
For more news from Naval Facilities Engineering Command, visit www.navy.mil/local/navfachq/.
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NNS150302-03. Bonhomme Richard Sailors and Marines Partner with Community for Community Relations Project
By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kevin V. Cunningham, USS Bonhomme Richard Public Affairs
KOTA KINABALU, Malaysia (NNS) -- More than 40 Sailors and Marines from the amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) teamed up with city council workers and local volunteers to help beautify Likas Bay Public Park, Feb. 24 during the ship's scheduled port visit to Kota Kinabalu.
"Caring for the beautiful beaches of Malaysia sends a real Navy message," said Yeoman 3rd Class Justin Quinones, from Phillipsburg, New Jersey. "The best way to lead is by example. If we show we care, maybe it will be followed by others."
The event, organized by BHR and the local city council, focused on establishing relationships with the local community and to be an example for the city's residents.
"We hope this helps our citizens take pride in what is ours," said Jennifer Vun, a city tour guide and event coordinator. "Malaysia has some of the most spectacular beaches and seeing the American Sailors and Marines care means so much to us."
"Kota Kinabalu is a beautiful city and one of the best liberty ports for 7th Fleet Sailors and Marines," said Cmdr. Curtis N. Price, Expeditionary Strike Group 7 chaplain. "This project builds on our commitment to our friends, and gives our crew the opportunity to see this great country firsthand."
Bonhomme Richard is the flagship of the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group and, with the embarked 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, is currently deployed in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations.
Bonhomme Richard ARG is currently under the tactical command of embarked Commander, Amphibious Squadron 11, Capt. Heidi Agle and reports to Commander, Amphibious Force U.S. 7th Fleet, Rear Adm. Hugh D. Wetherald, headquartered in White Beach, Japan.
For more news from USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6), visitwww.navy.mil/local/lhd6/.
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NNS150302-01. Submarine Force U.S. Pacific Fleet Sailors of the Year Announced
By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Anthony Walker, Submarine Force U.S. Pacific Fleet Public Affairs
SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Sea and Shore Sailors of the Year (SOY) for Commander, Submarine Force U.S. Pacific Fleet (COMSUBPAC) were announced Feb. 27 following a week of events where 9 SOY candidates representing various commands from the Pacific submarine community competed for the distinguished title.
The 2014 Sea Sailor of the Year was awarded to Yeoman 1st Class William Kennedy, from the Los Angeles-class submarine USS San Francisco (SSN 711).
The 2014 Shore Sailor of the Year was awarded to Navy Counselor 1st Class Sarah Dozier, from Commander, Submarine Group 9.
Also selected to compete in the competition were:
LS1 (SW/AW) Jonathan Lee, USS Frank Cable (AS 40)
MM1 (SS) Christopher Smith, USS Ohio (SSGN 726) (BLUE)
HM1 (SS/FMF) Jose Delgado, USS Columbia (SSN 771)
ND1 (DSW/SS/SW) Kristoffer Ilagan, Undersea Rescue Command
STG1 (SW) Brandon Ronne, Naval Ocean Processing Facility, Whidbey Island
FT1 (SS) Kevin MaClean, Commander, Submarine Squadron 15
YN1 (AW) Angela Fiorucci, Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet
All candidates were honored during a luncheon Feb. 27, where Rear Adm. Phillip Sawyer, COMSUBPAC, congratulated the candidates.
"You are truly the tip of the spear of the submarine force and represent us very well." he said. "I applaud what you have achieved and look forward to what you will accomplish in the future."
Both Sailors now go on to represent the Pacific submarine force in the Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet Sailor of the Year competition.
For more news from Commander, Submarine Squadron 11, visitwww.navy.mil/local/css11/.
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NNS150227-25. Commanding Officer of USS Mississippi Relieved
From Submarine Force Pacific Fleet Public Affairs
PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii (NNS) -- The commanding officer (CO) of the Pearl Harbor-based fast attack submarine USS Mississippi (SSN 782) was relieved of his duties Feb. 27 due to a loss of confidence in his ability to command.
Cmdr. Tory Swanson was removed from his position by Captain Harry Ganteaume, Commander, Submarine Squadron 1, based at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam.
A command investigation into the circumstances leading to Swanson's relief is ongoing.
Swanson, who had served aboard Mississippi since April 2013, has been administratively reassigned to the staff of Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet, at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii.
For more news from Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/local/subpac/.
NNS150302-19. Current All Hands Update
From Defense Media Activity - Navy
WASHINGTION (NNS) -- All Hands Update features three one-minute newscasts today.
First one-minute newscast-
- Headlines for Monday, March 2, 2015: USS Fort Worth Practices Code for Unplanned Encounters at Sea With Chinese Navy; MCPON Testifies Before Congress
http://youtu.be/JeNtztV7nLU
http://www.navy.mil/viewVideo.
Second one-minute newscast-
- Civil Engineer Corps Celebrates 148 Years
http://youtu.be/aDvB6EOJdXM
http://www.navy.mil/viewVideo.
Third one-minute newscast-
- United Through Reading Keeps Families Together During Deployments
http://youtu.be/TXDPA7kTtV0
http://www.navy.mil/viewVideo.
Defense Media Activity-Navy produces All Hands Update (AHU) newscasts each day. AHU can be seen throughout the day and evening on the Direct-to-Sailor (DTS)satellite television service available aboard 160 ships of the fleet and via the Navy Web site at www.navy.mil. Check your local DTS program schedule for air times. AHU can also be seen throughout the world on the American Forces Radio and Television Service (AFRTS).
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NNS011215-04. This Day in Naval History - March 02
From Naval History and Heritage Command, Communication and Outreach Division
1859 - USS Saginaw launches from Mare Island, Calif. The steamer is the first US Navy ship built on the West Coast.
1867 - The Civil Engineer Corps is established by Congress.
1945 - USS Bowfin (SS 287) sinks Japanese transport Chokai Maru, and patrol bombers PB4Y-2 (VPB 119) sink transport Nichirin Maru in East China Sea.
1952 - During the Korean War, USS Endicott (DMS 35) silences enemy guns on the east coast of Chuuronjang, Korea in a counter-battery engagement.
1973 - The first four female U.S. Navy pilots begin training. The women are: Lt. j.g. Barbara A. Allen; Lt. j.g Judith A. Neuffer; Ensign Jane M. Skiles and Ensign Kathleen L. McNary.
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Navy News Service is the official news wire service of the U.S. Navy, containing stories recently posted to the Navy Web site at www.navy.mil. It is a product of the Defense Media Navy - 6700 Taylor Rd., Fort Meade, MD 20755. Reprints should be credited to the Navy News Service (NNS).
For the latest in Navy news from around the fleet, visit www.navy.mil.
For all Navy-related questions, review the FAQs posted at www.navy.mil or visit www.history.navy.mil.
Media queries should be directed to the Navy News Desk at (703) 697-5342.
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