Navy News Service PLAN OF THE WEEK for Thursday, March 5, 2015
CNO, CNP Discuss Talent Management During Conversation with a Shipmate
On this episode of "Conversation with a Shipmate," CNO Adm. Greenert and Chief of Naval Personnel Adm. Moran discuss Navy personnel issues. Modernization of personnel systems, technical training, enriching organizational culture, women in service and potential changes to the Physical Fitness Assessment are all covered. Watch on DTS or online:http://www.navy.mil/
Navy Tests Expanded Fitness and Child Care Hours
Beginning next month Navy Installations Command will extend Child Youth Center and MWR Fitness Center hours of operation in several locations as part of a pilot program to provide greater services to support Sailors and their families. View more information by visiting http://www.navy.mil/submit/
Beginning next month Navy Installations Command will extend Child Youth Center and MWR Fitness Center hours of operation in several locations as part of a pilot program to provide greater services to support Sailors and their families. View more information by visiting http://www.navy.mil/submit/
eDIVO Mobile App for U.S. Navy DIVOs and CPOs Now Available
The Navy launched a new app named eDIVO, designed to provide DIVOs and CPOs with quick access to information and resources all located within one mobile application. The eDIVO app, available for free in both the Apple and Google Play Store, and works disconnected thus enabling use anywhere, whether ashore or afloat. Read more here:http://www.navy.mil/submit/
The Navy launched a new app named eDIVO, designed to provide DIVOs and CPOs with quick access to information and resources all located within one mobile application. The eDIVO app, available for free in both the Apple and Google Play Store, and works disconnected thus enabling use anywhere, whether ashore or afloat. Read more here:http://www.navy.mil/submit/
Defense Advisory Committee on Women in the Services (DACOWITS) Hosts Meeting with Navy Officers and New Inductees
The Defense Advisory Committee on Women in the Services (DACOWITS) held their two-day spring quarterly committee meeting in Arlington, Virginia, March 11-12. The committee discussed topics focused on, but not limited to, the Navy's increasing female accessions and the status of enlisted women on submarines. Read more at http://www.navy.mil/submit/
The Defense Advisory Committee on Women in the Services (DACOWITS) held their two-day spring quarterly committee meeting in Arlington, Virginia, March 11-12. The committee discussed topics focused on, but not limited to, the Navy's increasing female accessions and the status of enlisted women on submarines. Read more at http://www.navy.mil/submit/
Yeoman Qualification Standards Updated
Navy administration subject matter experts gathered for five days within the Norfolk, Virginia, NATO Headquarters building to update the yeoman (YN) rating Personnel Qualification Standards March 2. For more on this story go to http://www.navy.mil/submit/
Navy administration subject matter experts gathered for five days within the Norfolk, Virginia, NATO Headquarters building to update the yeoman (YN) rating Personnel Qualification Standards March 2. For more on this story go to http://www.navy.mil/submit/
PACNORWEST Fleet Engagement
The March 16-19 Pacific Northwest Fleet Engagement schedule is now available. Find it at http://www.public.navy.mil/
The March 16-19 Pacific Northwest Fleet Engagement schedule is now available. Find it at http://www.public.navy.mil/
STA-21 Program Announcement
The Navy is soliciting applications for the FY-16 STA-21 commissioning program. STA-21 is a full-time undergraduate education and commissioning program open to enlisted personnel of all paygrades who meet the eligibility requirements. For more information, read NAVADMIN 061/15 at www.npc.navy.mil.
The Navy is soliciting applications for the FY-16 STA-21 commissioning program. STA-21 is a full-time undergraduate education and commissioning program open to enlisted personnel of all paygrades who meet the eligibility requirements. For more information, read NAVADMIN 061/15 at www.npc.navy.mil.
On the Minds of the AME Detailers
From the detailers: Sailors are needed for RDC and recruiting – contact your detailer 10-13 months prior to your PRD; interested in the Overseas Tour Extension Program or need to extend your PRD to your EAOS – submit all requests via a Form 1306/7 10-12 months before your PRD; read your orders carefully, NEC comeback quota class dates are listed near the end; keep your CMS/ID contact information updated.
From the detailers: Sailors are needed for RDC and recruiting – contact your detailer 10-13 months prior to your PRD; interested in the Overseas Tour Extension Program or need to extend your PRD to your EAOS – submit all requests via a Form 1306/7 10-12 months before your PRD; read your orders carefully, NEC comeback quota class dates are listed near the end; keep your CMS/ID contact information updated.
Never too Late to Save
Although Military Saves Week at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay wrapped up Feb. 28, it is never too late to start saving money and becoming financially stable. For more information go tohttp://www.navy.mil/submit/
Although Military Saves Week at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay wrapped up Feb. 28, it is never too late to start saving money and becoming financially stable. For more information go tohttp://www.navy.mil/submit/
Public Health Center Announces Revitalized ShipShape Program
The Navy and Marine Corps Public Health Center (NMCPHC) announced the launch of the revitalized ShipShape Program, March 9. The ShipShape Program helps participants achieve healthy weight loss and maintain a healthy weight by facilitating changes in eating and exercise habits. Read more about this program by visiting http://www.navy.mil/submit/
The Navy and Marine Corps Public Health Center (NMCPHC) announced the launch of the revitalized ShipShape Program, March 9. The ShipShape Program helps participants achieve healthy weight loss and maintain a healthy weight by facilitating changes in eating and exercise habits. Read more about this program by visiting http://www.navy.mil/submit/
Reserve Component to Active Component Change Program
Reserve Sailors interested in transitioning to active duty can apply for augmentation to the Active Component online throughhttp://www.public.navy.mil/
Reserve Sailors interested in transitioning to active duty can apply for augmentation to the Active Component online throughhttp://www.public.navy.mil/
2015 Spring Intelligence Community Awards
Navy is seeking nominations for the 2015 Herman Dworkin Award for Maritime Analytic Excellence, the Rear Admiral Edwin T. Layton Leadership Award, the Vice Admiral Rufus L. Taylor Award for Leadership, and the Vice Admiral Rufus L. Taylor Award for Excellence in Intelligence Instruction. NAVADMIN 056/15 at http://www.public.navy.mil/
Navy is seeking nominations for the 2015 Herman Dworkin Award for Maritime Analytic Excellence, the Rear Admiral Edwin T. Layton Leadership Award, the Vice Admiral Rufus L. Taylor Award for Leadership, and the Vice Admiral Rufus L. Taylor Award for Excellence in Intelligence Instruction. NAVADMIN 056/15 at http://www.public.navy.mil/
SWO Bonus Reauthorized
Navy has reauthorized the Revised Surface Warfare Officer Critical Skills Retention Bonus (RSWOCSRB) in NAVADMIN 057/15 allowing contracts to again be written. Authority for the bonus lapsed in December due to staffing delays in coordinating the approval for reauthorization. Go tohttp://www.public.navy.mil/
Navy has reauthorized the Revised Surface Warfare Officer Critical Skills Retention Bonus (RSWOCSRB) in NAVADMIN 057/15 allowing contracts to again be written. Authority for the bonus lapsed in December due to staffing delays in coordinating the approval for reauthorization. Go tohttp://www.public.navy.mil/
Navy Adds Measures to Enhance Safety During Shipboard Flight Operations
New procedures that will aid surface warfare officers and helicopter pilots while increasing safety during flight operations on destroyers have been successfully tested and recently rolled out to the fleet. Find out more on this development by visiting http://www.navy.mil/submit/
New procedures that will aid surface warfare officers and helicopter pilots while increasing safety during flight operations on destroyers have been successfully tested and recently rolled out to the fleet. Find out more on this development by visiting http://www.navy.mil/submit/
CNO, CNP Talk Personnel on Conversation with a Shipmate
The Navy's top admiral and personnel chief released another installment March 2 of the Internet video series, "Conversation with a Shipmate." Read more on this story at http://www.navy.mil/submit/
The Navy's top admiral and personnel chief released another installment March 2 of the Internet video series, "Conversation with a Shipmate." Read more on this story at http://www.navy.mil/submit/
Standard Operating Procedures Available to Assist Personnel Actions
The Pay and Personnel Administrative Support System (PASS) program has created more than 30 standard operating procedures (SOP) to help Sailors perform their day-to-day personnel activities like travel claims and updating records Navy administrators said recently. Visithttp://www.navy.mil/submit/
The Pay and Personnel Administrative Support System (PASS) program has created more than 30 standard operating procedures (SOP) to help Sailors perform their day-to-day personnel activities like travel claims and updating records Navy administrators said recently. Visithttp://www.navy.mil/submit/
SPAWAR FRD Improves Shipboard Combat Readiness
Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command (SPAWAR) integrated a system of systems operability testing (SOT) capability for combatant ships onboard USS Curtis Wilbur (DDG 54), which just completed an availability and sea trial period utilizing the new SOT combat readiness testing, Mar. 6.
Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command (SPAWAR) integrated a system of systems operability testing (SOT) capability for combatant ships onboard USS Curtis Wilbur (DDG 54), which just completed an availability and sea trial period utilizing the new SOT combat readiness testing, Mar. 6.
Secondary Dependents: Does Your Parent, Sibling or Unmarried Child Qualify?
Petty Officer Lori Bent had a problem. As a single mother with a 5-year-old daughter, her Navy schedule was starting to take its toll. Stationed aboard the USS Carl Vinson with its fluctuating deployment schedule and its numerous readiness exercises, she was becoming dependent on her best friend. Go to http://www.navy.mil/ah_online/
Petty Officer Lori Bent had a problem. As a single mother with a 5-year-old daughter, her Navy schedule was starting to take its toll. Stationed aboard the USS Carl Vinson with its fluctuating deployment schedule and its numerous readiness exercises, she was becoming dependent on her best friend. Go to http://www.navy.mil/ah_online/
Liberty Policy Update Expands CO's Authority
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. Get more details at https://navcms.dma.mil/
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. Get more details at https://navcms.dma.mil/
Commands; Navy.mil Wants to Recognize Your Reserve Sailors
If you have a Reserve Sailor serving with your command, Navy.mil wants to know! Submit a story with photo or photo with deep cutline to your Public Affairs Officer or PA shop telling us what that Sailor does and how they support their Navy when mobilized. Be sure to include hometown and high school name/year of graduation and use #NR100.
If you have a Reserve Sailor serving with your command, Navy.mil wants to know! Submit a story with photo or photo with deep cutline to your Public Affairs Officer or PA shop telling us what that Sailor does and how they support their Navy when mobilized. Be sure to include hometown and high school name/year of graduation and use #NR100.
Navy.mil Seeking Feedback on the Plan of the Day Announcements
Would you like to see more information included in the Plan of the Day Announcements? Or do you find them useful as is? In order to provide the best personnel and career guidance to sailors, we're looking for feedback from our viewers on how to improve these important notices. Please send your comments/suggestions to april.grant@navy.mil.
Would you like to see more information included in the Plan of the Day Announcements? Or do you find them useful as is? In order to provide the best personnel and career guidance to sailors, we're looking for feedback from our viewers on how to improve these important notices. Please send your comments/suggestions to april.grant@navy.mil.
FY-15 Full Time Support (FTS) Officer Transfer and Redesignation Board
FY-15 FTS Officer Transfer and Redesignation Board announced for 21 April 2015. Qualified Active Component, Ready Reserve officers and existing FTS officers requesting redesignation into another FTS officer community may apply for this board; deadline 24 March 2015. View the NAVADMIN at http://www.public.navy.mil/
FY-15 FTS Officer Transfer and Redesignation Board announced for 21 April 2015. Qualified Active Component, Ready Reserve officers and existing FTS officers requesting redesignation into another FTS officer community may apply for this board; deadline 24 March 2015. View the NAVADMIN at http://www.public.navy.mil/
Year of the Military Diver Celebration
The following are celebrations and anniversaries for 2015: Year of the Military Diver (#YOTMD) 100th Anniversary of the Mark V 70th Anniversary of the Navy base in Panama City, Florida 40th Anniversary of Women in Navy Diving 35th Anniversary of the Naval Diving and Salvage Training Center
The following are celebrations and anniversaries for 2015: Year of the Military Diver (#YOTMD) 100th Anniversary of the Mark V 70th Anniversary of the Navy base in Panama City, Florida 40th Anniversary of Women in Navy Diving 35th Anniversary of the Naval Diving and Salvage Training Center
Democracy is a Year-Round Business...VOTE!
With the 2014 mid-term election in their wake, Sailors might be tempted to forget about absentee voting and politics in general until 2016. See more details at http://www.navy.mil/submit/
With the 2014 mid-term election in their wake, Sailors might be tempted to forget about absentee voting and politics in general until 2016. See more details at http://www.navy.mil/submit/
Shore Special Assignments
Motivated ADs are needed for Recruit Division Commanders (RDC) and Recruiting Positions. For more on Shore Special Programs, visit:http://www.public.navy.mil/
Motivated ADs are needed for Recruit Division Commanders (RDC) and Recruiting Positions. For more on Shore Special Programs, visit:http://www.public.navy.mil/
Leave Use or Lose Carry Over
Since 2008 Sailors have been allowed to carryover up to 75 days of leave each fiscal year as authorized by Congress. That authorization will end at the end of fiscal year 2015 after which leave carryover will revert to 60 days. In general, any leave balance in excess of 60 days on September 30, 2015 will be lost. Talk with the Command Pass Coordinator (CPC) for help understanding your correct use/lose balance.
Since 2008 Sailors have been allowed to carryover up to 75 days of leave each fiscal year as authorized by Congress. That authorization will end at the end of fiscal year 2015 after which leave carryover will revert to 60 days. In general, any leave balance in excess of 60 days on September 30, 2015 will be lost. Talk with the Command Pass Coordinator (CPC) for help understanding your correct use/lose balance.
Navy College Program for Afloat College Education (NCPACE) offers free college tuition
Sailors assigned to Type 2 or 4 duty may be eligible to participate in NCPACE, which offers college courses with tuition funded at 100%. Sailors are responsible only for the cost of textbooks and related materials. NCPACE courses do not impact Sailors’ annual tuition assistance funding limits. Contact a Navy College Office for more information.https://www.navycollege.navy.
Sailors assigned to Type 2 or 4 duty may be eligible to participate in NCPACE, which offers college courses with tuition funded at 100%. Sailors are responsible only for the cost of textbooks and related materials. NCPACE courses do not impact Sailors’ annual tuition assistance funding limits. Contact a Navy College Office for more information.https://www.navycollege.navy.
Joint Services Transcript (JST) Request Process Changing
JST requests have been streamlined by moving the processing from the Virtual Education Center (VEC) to JST Operations in Pensacola, Fla. Navy Voluntary Education retains JST program management responsibilities. As of 15 DEC 2014, Sailors should send JST requests to jst@doded.mil, fax to (850) 473-6013 / DSN 753-6013 or visit the website at https://jst.doded.mil.
JST requests have been streamlined by moving the processing from the Virtual Education Center (VEC) to JST Operations in Pensacola, Fla. Navy Voluntary Education retains JST program management responsibilities. As of 15 DEC 2014, Sailors should send JST requests to jst@doded.mil, fax to (850) 473-6013 / DSN 753-6013 or visit the website at https://jst.doded.mil.
New Program Offers Hometown Media Recognition for Sailors and Civilians of the Year
The Navy honors thousands of Sailors and Navy civilians with Sailor, Junior Sailor, Bluejacket and Civilian of the Year honors. Through a new program, the Navy Office of Community Outreach (NAVCO) stands ready to help Navy commands share these stories and photos with each honoree's hometown media. For more information, visithttp://www.navy.mil/submit/
The Navy honors thousands of Sailors and Navy civilians with Sailor, Junior Sailor, Bluejacket and Civilian of the Year honors. Through a new program, the Navy Office of Community Outreach (NAVCO) stands ready to help Navy commands share these stories and photos with each honoree's hometown media. For more information, visithttp://www.navy.mil/submit/
Changes to Senior Enlisted AcademyThe Navy Senior Enlisted Academy is expanding its delivery format to afford every senior chief petty officer the opportunity to attend the SEA prior to selection to master chief petty officer. Its delivery format modified to nine weeks of distance learning online and three week residence. See NAVADMIN 266/14.
THIS WEEK IN NAVAL HISTORY
MARCH 14
1863 - A squadron of ships led by Rear Adm. David G. Farragut passes the heavy batteries at Port Hudson, La., to establish blockade of Red River supply lines during the Civil War. USS Mississippi becomes grounded, catches fire and blows up, killing 64.
1929 - During the Elba, Ala., flooding, Navy planes from Naval Air Station Pensacola, Fla., make 113 flights carrying relief supplies and conducting rescues to flooded towns in southern Alabama and western Florida.
1945 - USS Cotten (DD 669) and USS Dortch (DD 670) sink the Japanese guardboats Futa Maru and No.17 Kaiko Maru off the Bonin Islands.
1945 - During the Battle for Iwo Jima, Marine Pvt. George Phillips and Pvt. Franklin E. Sigler each perform acts of conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life. Both are awarded Medals of Honors, Phillips receives his posthumously.
1945 - USS Bream (SS 243) sinks the Japanese auxiliary submarine chaser Kihin Maru in the Java Sea, south of Borneo. Also on this date, USS Trepang (SS 412) sinks the Japanese guardboat Kaiko Maru off Inubo Saki, Japan.
1964 - USS Sacramento (AOE -1) is commissioned at Seattle, Wash. She is the first-of-class Combat Supply Ship that combines the characteristics of an oiler, ammunition and supply ship.
1929 - During the Elba, Ala., flooding, Navy planes from Naval Air Station Pensacola, Fla., make 113 flights carrying relief supplies and conducting rescues to flooded towns in southern Alabama and western Florida.
1945 - USS Cotten (DD 669) and USS Dortch (DD 670) sink the Japanese guardboats Futa Maru and No.17 Kaiko Maru off the Bonin Islands.
1945 - During the Battle for Iwo Jima, Marine Pvt. George Phillips and Pvt. Franklin E. Sigler each perform acts of conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life. Both are awarded Medals of Honors, Phillips receives his posthumously.
1945 - USS Bream (SS 243) sinks the Japanese auxiliary submarine chaser Kihin Maru in the Java Sea, south of Borneo. Also on this date, USS Trepang (SS 412) sinks the Japanese guardboat Kaiko Maru off Inubo Saki, Japan.
1964 - USS Sacramento (AOE -1) is commissioned at Seattle, Wash. She is the first-of-class Combat Supply Ship that combines the characteristics of an oiler, ammunition and supply ship.
MARCH 15
1889 - A typhoon strikes Apia, Samoa, where American, German and British ships are protecting their national interests. The typhoon drives USS Trenton, USS Vandalia, and USS Nipsic ashore, killing 51 crew members, and sinks all three German ships with the loss of 150 crew.
1944 - USS Shamrock Bay (CVE 84) is commissioned. During World War II, she serves in the Atlantic and is sent to the Pacific due the loss of escort carriers and participates in the Okinawa Campaign.
1947 - Ensign John W. Lee, Jr., becomes the first African-American with a commission in the regular Navy and serves on board USS Kearsarge (CV 33).
1953 - Marine pilots of VMA 312 destroy eight rail cars, two possible radar towers, a power transformer and numerous other assorted targets in Korea before returning to USS Bataan (CVL 29).
1957 - A ZPG-2 airship driven by Cmdr. Jack R. Hunt lands at Naval Air Station Key West, Fla., after a flight that began March 4 at South Weymouth, Mass., then circled over the Atlantic Ocean toward Portugal, the African coast and back for a new world record in distance and endurance, covering 9,448 statute miles and remaining airborne 264 hours 12 minutes without refueling.
MARCH 16
1944 - PBY-5A (VP 63) seaplanes, employing magnetic anomaly detector (MAD) gear, detect German submarine U 392 while attempting to transit the Straits of Gibraltar. The sub is attacked and sunk by nearby allied ships.
1945 - During the Iwo Jima Campaign, Pharmacists Mate 1st Class Francis J. Pierce provides aid to a wounded Marine while disregarding his own injuries and directs treatment of the injured man and fires on the enemy to provide cover for his fellow troops. For his "conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life," he was awarded the Medal of Honor.
1952 - During the Korean War, USS Wisconsin (BB 64) and USS Duncan (DDR 874) engage in counter-battery fire at Dojo-ri, Korea, making two direct hits on enemy guns.
1963 - The Iwo Jima-class amphibious assault ship USS Guadalcanal (LPH 7) is launched at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard.
1966 - Gemini 8 launches. Former naval aviator Neil Armstrong and Air Force Maj. David R. Scott are on this mission that completes seven orbits in 10 hours and 41 minutes at an altitude of 161.3 nautical miles.
1945 - During the Iwo Jima Campaign, Pharmacists Mate 1st Class Francis J. Pierce provides aid to a wounded Marine while disregarding his own injuries and directs treatment of the injured man and fires on the enemy to provide cover for his fellow troops. For his "conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life," he was awarded the Medal of Honor.
1952 - During the Korean War, USS Wisconsin (BB 64) and USS Duncan (DDR 874) engage in counter-battery fire at Dojo-ri, Korea, making two direct hits on enemy guns.
1963 - The Iwo Jima-class amphibious assault ship USS Guadalcanal (LPH 7) is launched at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard.
1966 - Gemini 8 launches. Former naval aviator Neil Armstrong and Air Force Maj. David R. Scott are on this mission that completes seven orbits in 10 hours and 41 minutes at an altitude of 161.3 nautical miles.
MARCH 17
1898 - John Hollands submarine, Holland IV, performs the first successful diving and surfacing tests off Staten Island, N.Y.
1944 - USS Block Island (CVE 21) torpedo bomber aircraft from Composite Squadron (VC 6), along with USS Corry (DD 463) and USS Bronstein (DE 189), sink German submarine U 801 west of Cape Verdes.
1945 - USS Sealion (SS 315) sinks Bangkok-bound Thai oiler Samui off Trengganu coast, while USS Spot (SS 413) attacks a Japanese convoy and sinks army cargo vessel Nanking Maru off Yushiyama Island and damages cargo Ikomasan Maru, beached off Matsu Island.
1958 - The Naval Research Laboratory satellite Vanguard 1 is launched into orbit to test the capabilities of a three-stage launch vehicle and effects of the environment on a satellite and its systems in Earth’s orbit.
1959 - USS Skate (SSN-578) becomes the first submarine to surface at the North Pole, traveling 3,000 miles in and under Arctic ice for more than a month.
1962 - USS Raleigh (LPD-1), the Navys first amphibious transport dock, is launched at New York Naval shipyard.
1944 - USS Block Island (CVE 21) torpedo bomber aircraft from Composite Squadron (VC 6), along with USS Corry (DD 463) and USS Bronstein (DE 189), sink German submarine U 801 west of Cape Verdes.
1945 - USS Sealion (SS 315) sinks Bangkok-bound Thai oiler Samui off Trengganu coast, while USS Spot (SS 413) attacks a Japanese convoy and sinks army cargo vessel Nanking Maru off Yushiyama Island and damages cargo Ikomasan Maru, beached off Matsu Island.
1958 - The Naval Research Laboratory satellite Vanguard 1 is launched into orbit to test the capabilities of a three-stage launch vehicle and effects of the environment on a satellite and its systems in Earth’s orbit.
1959 - USS Skate (SSN-578) becomes the first submarine to surface at the North Pole, traveling 3,000 miles in and under Arctic ice for more than a month.
1962 - USS Raleigh (LPD-1), the Navys first amphibious transport dock, is launched at New York Naval shipyard.
MARCH 18
1901 - During the Philippine Insurrection, USS Vicksburg (Gunboat #11), commanded by Cmdr. E.B. Barry, begins supporting the U.S. Army’s operations under Brig. Gen. Frederick Funston around Kasiguran Bay and Palanan Bay, Luzon, Philippines.
1945 - Four destroyers, USS Menges (DE 320), USS Mosely (DE 321), USS Pride (DE 323) and USS Lowe (DE 325), sink the German submarine U 866 south of Nova Scotia.
1945 - Planes from Task Force 58 attack airfields on southern Kyushu and shipping lanes, including a Japanese convoy escorted by Coast Defense Vessel No. 29 and submarine chaser Ch 58.
1974 - As a part of the cease fire between Egypt and Israel after the Yom Kippur War in 1973, Task Force 56 is sent to sweep mines from the northern part of the Suez Canal as part of Operation Nimble Star.
1989 - USS Philippine Sea (CG 58) is commissioned at Portland, Maine. Named for the naval World War II Battle of the Philippine Sea, the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser is homeported in Mayport, Fla.
1991 - The first ship supporting Operation Desert Shield/Storm, combat store ship USS Sylvania (AFS 2), returns back to Norfolk, Va. While supporting Desert Shield/Storm, Sylvania delivered 19,000+ pallets of cargo (equaling 20,500 tons of supplies), answered 30,000+ requisitions, and delivered spare parts and food sustaining 35,000+ sailors aboard 150 ships.
2006 - While conducting maritime security operations as part of Combined Task Force 150 in the Indian Ocean, USS Cape St. George (CG 71) and USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) return fire on a group of pirates, killing one and wounding five. The incident occurs about 25 nautical miles off the central eastern coast of Somalia in international waters.
1945 - Four destroyers, USS Menges (DE 320), USS Mosely (DE 321), USS Pride (DE 323) and USS Lowe (DE 325), sink the German submarine U 866 south of Nova Scotia.
1945 - Planes from Task Force 58 attack airfields on southern Kyushu and shipping lanes, including a Japanese convoy escorted by Coast Defense Vessel No. 29 and submarine chaser Ch 58.
1974 - As a part of the cease fire between Egypt and Israel after the Yom Kippur War in 1973, Task Force 56 is sent to sweep mines from the northern part of the Suez Canal as part of Operation Nimble Star.
1989 - USS Philippine Sea (CG 58) is commissioned at Portland, Maine. Named for the naval World War II Battle of the Philippine Sea, the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser is homeported in Mayport, Fla.
1991 - The first ship supporting Operation Desert Shield/Storm, combat store ship USS Sylvania (AFS 2), returns back to Norfolk, Va. While supporting Desert Shield/Storm, Sylvania delivered 19,000+ pallets of cargo (equaling 20,500 tons of supplies), answered 30,000+ requisitions, and delivered spare parts and food sustaining 35,000+ sailors aboard 150 ships.
2006 - While conducting maritime security operations as part of Combined Task Force 150 in the Indian Ocean, USS Cape St. George (CG 71) and USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) return fire on a group of pirates, killing one and wounding five. The incident occurs about 25 nautical miles off the central eastern coast of Somalia in international waters.
MARCH 19
1898 - USS Oregon departs San Francisco for the 14,000 mile trip around South America to join more U.S. ships off Cuba during the Spanish-American War.
1918 - Ensign Stephen Potter is the first American to shoot down an enemy seaplane, a German plane off the German coast during World War I.
1924 - Curtis D. Wilbur takes office as the 43rd Secretary of the Navy, where he gains his greatest achievements in enlarging and modernizing the fleet, and establishing a naval air force that would become an overwhelming force during World War II.
1942 - Secretary of Navy James V. Forrestal places the newly-established construction battalions, later called Seabees, under the command of officers with the Civil Engineer Corps who are trained in the skills required for the performance of construction work.
1944 - TBF and FM-2 aircraft from Composite Squadron (VC 6) onboard USS Block Island (CVE 21) sink German submarine U 1059 west-southwest of Dakar.
1945 - Submarine USS Balao (SS 285) attacks a Japanese convoy and sinks one troopship and three fishing vessels and damages another off the Yangtze estuary about 90 miles north-northwest of Shanghi.
1945 - As Fast Carrier Task Force 58 planes bomb Kure and Kobe Harbors, Japanese aircraft single out the US Navy carriers for attack. USS Wasp (CV 18), USS Essex (CV 9), and USS Franklin (CV 13) are hit. After struck by a second bomb, Franklin suffers subsequent explosions on the flight and hangar decks. Heroic work by her crew, assisted by nearby ships, bring the fires and flooding under control. For their actions during this occasion, both Lt. Cmdr. Joseph T. OCallaghan and Lt.j.g. Donald A. Gary receive the Medal of Honor.
1969 - While serving with Battery D, 2nd Battalion, 11th Marines, at Phu Loc 6 in Quang Nam Province, Vietnam, Navy Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class David R. Ray is killed in action while providing medical aid to injured Marines during an enemy attack on his unit. Petty Officer Ray is posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroism in that action.
1994 - USS Curtis Wilbur (DDG 54) is commissioned at Long Beach, Calif., where then-Secretary of the Navy John H. Dalton was the keynote speaker. The Arleigh Burke guided-missile destroyer is currently homeported in Yokosuka, Japan.
1924 - Curtis D. Wilbur takes office as the 43rd Secretary of the Navy, where he gains his greatest achievements in enlarging and modernizing the fleet, and establishing a naval air force that would become an overwhelming force during World War II.
1942 - Secretary of Navy James V. Forrestal places the newly-established construction battalions, later called Seabees, under the command of officers with the Civil Engineer Corps who are trained in the skills required for the performance of construction work.
1944 - TBF and FM-2 aircraft from Composite Squadron (VC 6) onboard USS Block Island (CVE 21) sink German submarine U 1059 west-southwest of Dakar.
1945 - Submarine USS Balao (SS 285) attacks a Japanese convoy and sinks one troopship and three fishing vessels and damages another off the Yangtze estuary about 90 miles north-northwest of Shanghi.
1945 - As Fast Carrier Task Force 58 planes bomb Kure and Kobe Harbors, Japanese aircraft single out the US Navy carriers for attack. USS Wasp (CV 18), USS Essex (CV 9), and USS Franklin (CV 13) are hit. After struck by a second bomb, Franklin suffers subsequent explosions on the flight and hangar decks. Heroic work by her crew, assisted by nearby ships, bring the fires and flooding under control. For their actions during this occasion, both Lt. Cmdr. Joseph T. OCallaghan and Lt.j.g. Donald A. Gary receive the Medal of Honor.
1969 - While serving with Battery D, 2nd Battalion, 11th Marines, at Phu Loc 6 in Quang Nam Province, Vietnam, Navy Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class David R. Ray is killed in action while providing medical aid to injured Marines during an enemy attack on his unit. Petty Officer Ray is posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroism in that action.
1994 - USS Curtis Wilbur (DDG 54) is commissioned at Long Beach, Calif., where then-Secretary of the Navy John H. Dalton was the keynote speaker. The Arleigh Burke guided-missile destroyer is currently homeported in Yokosuka, Japan.
MARCH 20
1833 - Honorable Edmund Roberts, transported by USS Peacock and accompanied by USS Boxer, signs the Treaty of Amity, with the King of Siam (now Thailand), which is the first treaty between the United States and an Asian power.
1922 - USS Jupiter (Fuel Ship #3) is recommissioned as USS Langley (CV 1), the Navy's first aircraft carrier.
1952 - During the Korean War, USS Wiltsie (DD 716) and USS Brinkley Bass (DD 887) engage shore batteries at Wonsan, Korea. Bass scores seven direct hits on one of the batteries located near the city of Wonsan.
1959 - USS Staten Island (AGB 5) delivers six tons of food and clothing to New Zealand territorial island south of Samoa after storm devastates the area.
1999 - USS Porter (DDG 78) is commissioned at Port Canaveral, Fla. The guided-missile destroyer is the 28th of the Arleigh Burke-class and the fifth U.S. Navy ship to be named after Commodore David Porter and his son, Adm. David Dixon Porter.
2003 - Operation Iraqi Freedom begins after USS Bunker Hill (CG 52) is among the first to launch tomahawk missiles on Iraq, along with other Navy ships in the Red Sea and Persian Gulf.
2009 - USS Gettysburg (CG 64) apprehends six pirates in the Gulf of Aden after a distress call from two nearby merchant vessels.
1922 - USS Jupiter (Fuel Ship #3) is recommissioned as USS Langley (CV 1), the Navy's first aircraft carrier.
1952 - During the Korean War, USS Wiltsie (DD 716) and USS Brinkley Bass (DD 887) engage shore batteries at Wonsan, Korea. Bass scores seven direct hits on one of the batteries located near the city of Wonsan.
1959 - USS Staten Island (AGB 5) delivers six tons of food and clothing to New Zealand territorial island south of Samoa after storm devastates the area.
1999 - USS Porter (DDG 78) is commissioned at Port Canaveral, Fla. The guided-missile destroyer is the 28th of the Arleigh Burke-class and the fifth U.S. Navy ship to be named after Commodore David Porter and his son, Adm. David Dixon Porter.
2003 - Operation Iraqi Freedom begins after USS Bunker Hill (CG 52) is among the first to launch tomahawk missiles on Iraq, along with other Navy ships in the Red Sea and Persian Gulf.
2009 - USS Gettysburg (CG 64) apprehends six pirates in the Gulf of Aden after a distress call from two nearby merchant vessels.
RELATED NEWS
Navy Tests Expanded Fitness and Child Care Hours
From Navy Installations Command Public Affairs
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- - Beginning next month Navy Installations Command will extend Child Youth Center and MWR Fitness Center hours of operation in several locations as part of a pilot program to provide greater services to support Sailors and their families.
Three locations were selected to support the pilot, including Naval Base in Bremerton, Wash., Joint Expeditionary Base in Little Creek, Va., and Naval Station in San Diego, Calif.
"The pilot program in Bremerton will include extended hours for Child Youth Programs at the Child Development Center and the fitness center," said James Baker, division chief for Morale, Welfare and Recreation at Navy Installations Command. "The pilot will also include extended hours at fitness centers at other selected bases in Little Creek and San Diego," added Baker.
The locations were chosen for the pilot because of their proximity in fleet concentration areas where work requirements extend beyond a normal work day.
According to Baker, the pilot will determine whether the extended hours are useful for Sailors and their families. This initiative is in keeping with the Navy's 21st Century Sailor and Marine initiative to provide services across a spectrum of readiness and wellness areas to enhance combat effectiveness.
The pilot program will begin in April and continue for six months at each participating installation. The Child Youth Program hours in Bremerton will expand by four hours Monday through Friday, operating from 4:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the Child Development Center. The fitness center hours at each location will be expanded from 90 hours to 118 hours per week and will operate Monday through Friday from 4:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. and from 6:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. on weekends.
The pilot program will measure usage and staffing levels required to support the extended hours, and determine whether the expanded hours can be affordably extended to other facilities across the Navy.
With more than 50,000 personnel located at 70 installations under 11 Regions worldwide, Commander, Navy Installations Command ensures requirements necessary to train and operate the Navy's Fleet are maintained and ready. Navy installations are responsible for facilitating the manning, training and equipping our fighting force, and support Navy families through Family and Community Services programs.
From Navy Installations Command Public Affairs
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- - Beginning next month Navy Installations Command will extend Child Youth Center and MWR Fitness Center hours of operation in several locations as part of a pilot program to provide greater services to support Sailors and their families.
Three locations were selected to support the pilot, including Naval Base in Bremerton, Wash., Joint Expeditionary Base in Little Creek, Va., and Naval Station in San Diego, Calif.
"The pilot program in Bremerton will include extended hours for Child Youth Programs at the Child Development Center and the fitness center," said James Baker, division chief for Morale, Welfare and Recreation at Navy Installations Command. "The pilot will also include extended hours at fitness centers at other selected bases in Little Creek and San Diego," added Baker.
The locations were chosen for the pilot because of their proximity in fleet concentration areas where work requirements extend beyond a normal work day.
According to Baker, the pilot will determine whether the extended hours are useful for Sailors and their families. This initiative is in keeping with the Navy's 21st Century Sailor and Marine initiative to provide services across a spectrum of readiness and wellness areas to enhance combat effectiveness.
The pilot program will begin in April and continue for six months at each participating installation. The Child Youth Program hours in Bremerton will expand by four hours Monday through Friday, operating from 4:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the Child Development Center. The fitness center hours at each location will be expanded from 90 hours to 118 hours per week and will operate Monday through Friday from 4:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. and from 6:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. on weekends.
The pilot program will measure usage and staffing levels required to support the extended hours, and determine whether the expanded hours can be affordably extended to other facilities across the Navy.
With more than 50,000 personnel located at 70 installations under 11 Regions worldwide, Commander, Navy Installations Command ensures requirements necessary to train and operate the Navy's Fleet are maintained and ready. Navy installations are responsible for facilitating the manning, training and equipping our fighting force, and support Navy families through Family and Community Services programs.
Defense Advisory Committee on Women in the Services (DACOWITS) Hosts Meeting with Navy Officers and New Inductees
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Leonard Adams, Defense Media Activity
ARLINGTON, Va. (NNS) -- The Defense Advisory Committee on Women in the Services (DACOWITS) held their two-day spring quarterly committee meeting in Arlington, Virginia, March 11-12.
The committee discussed topics focused on, but not limited to, the Navy's increasing female accessions and the status of enlisted women on submarines.
"With the resending of the 1994 rule and the ground combat inclusion opening the door for the Navy to be able to change the policy, the wonderful news here is as of 21 January the submarine force policy was officially changed," said Capt. Rodney E. Hutton, commander, Trident Training Facility, Kings Bay, during his remarks at the meeting. "So as of today I can stand here and I can tell you, all ratings and all NEC's in the submarine force are open to women,"
During 2014, DACOWITS continued to follow the Department of Defense's and the services ongoing implementation of their plans to open closed positions and units to women no later than Jan. 1, 2016.
"Our overarching strategy in the Navy is to increase the presence of women in operational billets as well as across all jobs and ranks," said Cmdr. Renee Squier, head of Diversity, Inclusion and Women's Policy at the office of the Chief of Naval Personnel. "We hear from our Sailors, both men and woman and the top three challenges that they are facing and the reason that they are leaving is the same, the challenges about having a family, the challenges for work life balance, and geographic stability,"
DACOWITS was established in 1951 and is composed of civilian women and men who are appointed by the Secretary of Defense to provide advice and recommendations on matters and policies relating to the recruitment and retention, treatment, employment, integration, and well-being of highly qualified professional women in the armed forces.
In addition, during the meeting retired Vice Adm. Carol M. Pottenger, along with three others, received their induction into the committee. Qualified candidates are selected to serve as DACOWITS committee members on the basis of their experience with the military or with women's workforce issues.
Pottenger obtained her commission through Navy Reserve Officers Training Corps at Purdue University in 1977. She was one of the first women selected for sea duty. Pottenger reported aboard USS Yosemite (AD 19) as engineering division officer and completed a Mediterranean deployment. She also served aboard USS Yellowstone (AD 41) and USS Kiska (AE 35) and USS Shasta (AE 33) in 1996, USS Bridge (AOE 10) in 2001.
The Committee is composed of not more than 20 civilian members, representing a distribution of demography, professional career fields, community service, and geography.
For more information about the Navy's Office of Women's Policy, visithttp://www.public.navy.mil/
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Leonard Adams, Defense Media Activity
ARLINGTON, Va. (NNS) -- The Defense Advisory Committee on Women in the Services (DACOWITS) held their two-day spring quarterly committee meeting in Arlington, Virginia, March 11-12.
The committee discussed topics focused on, but not limited to, the Navy's increasing female accessions and the status of enlisted women on submarines.
"With the resending of the 1994 rule and the ground combat inclusion opening the door for the Navy to be able to change the policy, the wonderful news here is as of 21 January the submarine force policy was officially changed," said Capt. Rodney E. Hutton, commander, Trident Training Facility, Kings Bay, during his remarks at the meeting. "So as of today I can stand here and I can tell you, all ratings and all NEC's in the submarine force are open to women,"
During 2014, DACOWITS continued to follow the Department of Defense's and the services ongoing implementation of their plans to open closed positions and units to women no later than Jan. 1, 2016.
"Our overarching strategy in the Navy is to increase the presence of women in operational billets as well as across all jobs and ranks," said Cmdr. Renee Squier, head of Diversity, Inclusion and Women's Policy at the office of the Chief of Naval Personnel. "We hear from our Sailors, both men and woman and the top three challenges that they are facing and the reason that they are leaving is the same, the challenges about having a family, the challenges for work life balance, and geographic stability,"
DACOWITS was established in 1951 and is composed of civilian women and men who are appointed by the Secretary of Defense to provide advice and recommendations on matters and policies relating to the recruitment and retention, treatment, employment, integration, and well-being of highly qualified professional women in the armed forces.
In addition, during the meeting retired Vice Adm. Carol M. Pottenger, along with three others, received their induction into the committee. Qualified candidates are selected to serve as DACOWITS committee members on the basis of their experience with the military or with women's workforce issues.
Pottenger obtained her commission through Navy Reserve Officers Training Corps at Purdue University in 1977. She was one of the first women selected for sea duty. Pottenger reported aboard USS Yosemite (AD 19) as engineering division officer and completed a Mediterranean deployment. She also served aboard USS Yellowstone (AD 41) and USS Kiska (AE 35) and USS Shasta (AE 33) in 1996, USS Bridge (AOE 10) in 2001.
The Committee is composed of not more than 20 civilian members, representing a distribution of demography, professional career fields, community service, and geography.
For more information about the Navy's Office of Women's Policy, visithttp://www.public.navy.mil/
Yeoman Qualification Standards Updated
From Center for Service Support Newport Public Affairs
NORFOLK (NNS) -- Navy administration subject matter experts gathered for five days within the Norfolk, Virginia, NATO Headquarters building to update the yeoman (YN) rating Personnel Qualification Standards March 2.
Chief Yeoman Christopher Byard, yeoman rate training manager at Center for Service Support (CSS) Newport, Rhode Island, oversees all training materials provided to the more than 2,500 Sailors serving as yeoman in the fleet. Byard led the team of 18 Sailors updating the 134-page training document.
"A PQS is a compilation of the minimum knowledge and skills an individual must demonstrate to qualify to stand watches or perform other specific routine duties necessary for the safety, security or proper operation of a ship, aircraft or support system," Byard said when asked about a PQS. "As the technologies our Sailors work with change and evolve, so too, must the training and curriculum by which we train our yeoman. This is vital to the development of our community."
The working group was comprised of Sailors representing the yeoman rating from different backgrounds including shore commands, ships, training commands, and staff headquarters.
According to Richard J. Rangel, CSS PQS manager, "The updated YN PQS reflects the continuing efforts of CSS to ensure all Sailors in the fleet are provided the necessary training materials to succeed."
"We will continue to update our PQS to help YN Sailors develop and hone skills that are relevant as operational requirements, equipment, and ratings change," said Byard, "The success of this PQS will not be determined by the team that updated the material, but rather by the working Sailors in the fleet."
Master Chief Petty Officer Diego Reyes, yeoman technical advisor, routinely attends working groups and workshops concerning the yeoman rating. "The workshop held to rewrite the Yeoman PQS was by far one of the best workshops I have ever attended," he said. "CSS, specifically Mr. Rangel and Chief Byard, did an outstanding job hosting the event, and selecting the very best and brightest yeoman to help rewrite the PQS. The efforts and hard work put forth by each selected yeoman cannot be understated - they did a phenomenal job!"
The goal of the newly revised Yeoman PQS is utilization by every Sailor throughout the administrative office enterprise thereby making the whole force better.
"It is the right professional tool for our junior yeoman to make them proficient in their trait, but also a valuable resource for our senior Yeoman," Reyes explained. "It is my vision, as well as CSS that this product is made mandatory, but first things first, let's get it widely distributed, and used."
Reyes encourages all Yeomen to use the PQS to assist with career advancement as well as all other facets of the yeoman rating.
The new PQS will be available to Sailors beginning April 1, via Navy Knowledge Online and Navy Personnel Command websites as well as social media distribution.
The Center for Service Support is comprised of active-duty, civilian and contractor personnel, who direct the training efforts of seven different administration, logistics and media schools. The CSS team ensures curriculum and professional development tools are current.
For more news from Center for Service Support, visitwww.navy.mil/local/css/.
From Center for Service Support Newport Public Affairs
NORFOLK (NNS) -- Navy administration subject matter experts gathered for five days within the Norfolk, Virginia, NATO Headquarters building to update the yeoman (YN) rating Personnel Qualification Standards March 2.
Chief Yeoman Christopher Byard, yeoman rate training manager at Center for Service Support (CSS) Newport, Rhode Island, oversees all training materials provided to the more than 2,500 Sailors serving as yeoman in the fleet. Byard led the team of 18 Sailors updating the 134-page training document.
"A PQS is a compilation of the minimum knowledge and skills an individual must demonstrate to qualify to stand watches or perform other specific routine duties necessary for the safety, security or proper operation of a ship, aircraft or support system," Byard said when asked about a PQS. "As the technologies our Sailors work with change and evolve, so too, must the training and curriculum by which we train our yeoman. This is vital to the development of our community."
The working group was comprised of Sailors representing the yeoman rating from different backgrounds including shore commands, ships, training commands, and staff headquarters.
According to Richard J. Rangel, CSS PQS manager, "The updated YN PQS reflects the continuing efforts of CSS to ensure all Sailors in the fleet are provided the necessary training materials to succeed."
"We will continue to update our PQS to help YN Sailors develop and hone skills that are relevant as operational requirements, equipment, and ratings change," said Byard, "The success of this PQS will not be determined by the team that updated the material, but rather by the working Sailors in the fleet."
Master Chief Petty Officer Diego Reyes, yeoman technical advisor, routinely attends working groups and workshops concerning the yeoman rating. "The workshop held to rewrite the Yeoman PQS was by far one of the best workshops I have ever attended," he said. "CSS, specifically Mr. Rangel and Chief Byard, did an outstanding job hosting the event, and selecting the very best and brightest yeoman to help rewrite the PQS. The efforts and hard work put forth by each selected yeoman cannot be understated - they did a phenomenal job!"
The goal of the newly revised Yeoman PQS is utilization by every Sailor throughout the administrative office enterprise thereby making the whole force better.
"It is the right professional tool for our junior yeoman to make them proficient in their trait, but also a valuable resource for our senior Yeoman," Reyes explained. "It is my vision, as well as CSS that this product is made mandatory, but first things first, let's get it widely distributed, and used."
Reyes encourages all Yeomen to use the PQS to assist with career advancement as well as all other facets of the yeoman rating.
The new PQS will be available to Sailors beginning April 1, via Navy Knowledge Online and Navy Personnel Command websites as well as social media distribution.
The Center for Service Support is comprised of active-duty, civilian and contractor personnel, who direct the training efforts of seven different administration, logistics and media schools. The CSS team ensures curriculum and professional development tools are current.
For more news from Center for Service Support, visitwww.navy.mil/local/css/.
Never too Late to Save
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ashley Hedrick, Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay Public Affairs
KINGS BAY, Ga. (NNS) -- Although Military Saves Week at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay wrapped up Feb. 28, it is never too late to start saving money and becoming financially stable.
Throughout Military Saves Week, and on a continuing basis, the Kings Bay Fleet and Family Support Center (FFSC) is spreading the savings message and urging service members and their families to make positive changes in personal financial behavior.
"The whole point of our Military Saves Week was to engage our military members and their families to ensure financial stability and well-being," said William Snook, Kings Bay FFSC financial educator and counselor. "Even though Military Saves Week is over, we continue to provide education through our financial classes."
Snook said he also provides counseling through individual appointments.
Military research findings indicate that 42 percent of service members and their families are having difficulties paying expenses and covering bills. Around 46 percent have not, or are unaware if they have, set aside sufficient emergency funds to cover at least three months' worth of expenses. Also, 47 percent with student loans are concerned or unsure if they will be able to pay them off.
Snook said there may be many reasons as to why military families have difficulty saving money and paying off debt.
"There may be a lack of education to managing money, young families, or the temptation to want now vice saving and waiting."
One way to get finances under control is by budgeting. Budgeting helps those to plan for the future, and ensures bills to be paid on time, have funds for emergencies, and reach financial goals.
"There are many ways to budget smartly," Snook said. "You can track expenses, set limits on monthly expenses, be patient when making large purchases and deciding what's affordable. Be aware of the difference between needs and wants."
Yeoman 3rd Class Christopher Mesa said it's important for him to budget because he supports a wife and two children.
"I set aside a budget, which includes all of my bills," he said. "What I have left will go into savings. I believe a lot of Sailors struggle with student loans and credit card debt. Fleet and Family has really helped me with my financial situation."
Service members and their families are encouraged to take the "Military Saves Pledge" at www.military saves.org, a commitment toward financial freedom.
To learn more about ways to save money or to receive financial assistance, visit the Kings Bay FFSC or by calling the financial educator at 912-573-9783.
For more news from Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, Ga., visitwww.navy.mil/local/subasekb/.
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ashley Hedrick, Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay Public Affairs
KINGS BAY, Ga. (NNS) -- Although Military Saves Week at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay wrapped up Feb. 28, it is never too late to start saving money and becoming financially stable.
Throughout Military Saves Week, and on a continuing basis, the Kings Bay Fleet and Family Support Center (FFSC) is spreading the savings message and urging service members and their families to make positive changes in personal financial behavior.
"The whole point of our Military Saves Week was to engage our military members and their families to ensure financial stability and well-being," said William Snook, Kings Bay FFSC financial educator and counselor. "Even though Military Saves Week is over, we continue to provide education through our financial classes."
Snook said he also provides counseling through individual appointments.
Military research findings indicate that 42 percent of service members and their families are having difficulties paying expenses and covering bills. Around 46 percent have not, or are unaware if they have, set aside sufficient emergency funds to cover at least three months' worth of expenses. Also, 47 percent with student loans are concerned or unsure if they will be able to pay them off.
Snook said there may be many reasons as to why military families have difficulty saving money and paying off debt.
"There may be a lack of education to managing money, young families, or the temptation to want now vice saving and waiting."
One way to get finances under control is by budgeting. Budgeting helps those to plan for the future, and ensures bills to be paid on time, have funds for emergencies, and reach financial goals.
"There are many ways to budget smartly," Snook said. "You can track expenses, set limits on monthly expenses, be patient when making large purchases and deciding what's affordable. Be aware of the difference between needs and wants."
Yeoman 3rd Class Christopher Mesa said it's important for him to budget because he supports a wife and two children.
"I set aside a budget, which includes all of my bills," he said. "What I have left will go into savings. I believe a lot of Sailors struggle with student loans and credit card debt. Fleet and Family has really helped me with my financial situation."
Service members and their families are encouraged to take the "Military Saves Pledge" at www.military saves.org, a commitment toward financial freedom.
To learn more about ways to save money or to receive financial assistance, visit the Kings Bay FFSC or by calling the financial educator at 912-573-9783.
For more news from Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, Ga., visitwww.navy.mil/local/subasekb/.
Public Health Center Announces Revitalized ShipShape ProgramFrom Navy and Marine Corps Public Health Center, Public Affairs
PORTSMOUTH, Va. (NNS) -- The Navy and Marine Corps Public Health Center (NMCPHC) announced the launch of the revitalized ShipShape Program, March 9.
The ShipShape Program helps participants achieve healthy weight loss and maintain a healthy weight by facilitating changes in eating and exercise habits. The program aligns to the missions of the 21st Century Sailor and Marine Initiative and Navy Medicine to maintain a healthy, fit, and ready force.
"We spearheaded an intensive ShipShape Program improvement initiative to enhance curriculum content, facilitator training, and participant involvement which we feel increases the value and impact of the program," said Cmdr. Connie Scott, Health Promotion and Wellness (HPW) Department Head at NMCPHC. "We led an in-depth review to assess service member success rates after completing the program, surveyed current ShipShape Program facilitators on best practices and recommendations, reviewed ShipShape Program Participant evaluations, and conducted a contemporary literature review on management of overweight and obesity in our efforts to improve the program."
"Additionally, we would like to recognize our ShipShape Program facilitators who are essential in providing the needed program outreach assisting service members in meeting readiness requirements, and also providing a resource to improve the health of our beneficiaries and civilian staff," said Scott.
NMCPHC modernized the ShipShape Program curriculum and reporting forms, unveiled a new logo, adopted "Get Ready. Get Fit. Get Healthy" as its tagline, and redesigned the ShipShape Program website, which has garnered more than 6,000 unique visits since October 2014.
"Over the last two years, approximately 43 percent of active duty fitness enhancement program (FEP) participants that successfully completed the ShipShape Program have met Navy body composition assessment (BCA) standards within six months of completing the program," said Sally Vickers, ShipShape Program manager at NMCPHC. "Through the updated ShipShape Program, we look forward to helping more active duty and reserve service members, beneficiaries, and government civilians meet their weight management goals."
The updated ShipShape Program curriculum ensures that each of the program's eight sessions cover three essential components for weight management: mindset, nutrition, and physical activity. It also integrates engaging activities that promote both participant interaction and individual accomplishments.
Reporting form revisions include a consolidated attendance roster and reporting form, auto-population features for follow-up reporting, and other updated features that provide an easy-to-use tool for participant tracking.
"In addition to the overall redesign of the program, we also focused on increasing interaction between ShipShape Program facilitators and NMCPHC, as the program manager," said Vickers. "We established a forum via milSuite for facilitators to ask questions, share their experiences, and provide program feedback."
Since November 2014, NMCPHC has trained and/or recertified approximately 130 ShipShape Program facilitators from across the Navy.
The ShipShape Program is the official Navy weight management program that assists active duty and reserve military service members, beneficiaries, and government civilians with making healthy behavior changes to reach their weight management goals. The program is administered at local medical treatment facilities (MTFs) and clinics, shipboard commands, and other ashore facilities.
Learn more about the ShipShape Program at:http://www.med.navy.mil/sites/
For more news from Navy and Marine Corps Public Health Center, visitwww.navy.mil/local/nmcphc/.
PORTSMOUTH, Va. (NNS) -- The Navy and Marine Corps Public Health Center (NMCPHC) announced the launch of the revitalized ShipShape Program, March 9.
The ShipShape Program helps participants achieve healthy weight loss and maintain a healthy weight by facilitating changes in eating and exercise habits. The program aligns to the missions of the 21st Century Sailor and Marine Initiative and Navy Medicine to maintain a healthy, fit, and ready force.
"We spearheaded an intensive ShipShape Program improvement initiative to enhance curriculum content, facilitator training, and participant involvement which we feel increases the value and impact of the program," said Cmdr. Connie Scott, Health Promotion and Wellness (HPW) Department Head at NMCPHC. "We led an in-depth review to assess service member success rates after completing the program, surveyed current ShipShape Program facilitators on best practices and recommendations, reviewed ShipShape Program Participant evaluations, and conducted a contemporary literature review on management of overweight and obesity in our efforts to improve the program."
"Additionally, we would like to recognize our ShipShape Program facilitators who are essential in providing the needed program outreach assisting service members in meeting readiness requirements, and also providing a resource to improve the health of our beneficiaries and civilian staff," said Scott.
NMCPHC modernized the ShipShape Program curriculum and reporting forms, unveiled a new logo, adopted "Get Ready. Get Fit. Get Healthy" as its tagline, and redesigned the ShipShape Program website, which has garnered more than 6,000 unique visits since October 2014.
"Over the last two years, approximately 43 percent of active duty fitness enhancement program (FEP) participants that successfully completed the ShipShape Program have met Navy body composition assessment (BCA) standards within six months of completing the program," said Sally Vickers, ShipShape Program manager at NMCPHC. "Through the updated ShipShape Program, we look forward to helping more active duty and reserve service members, beneficiaries, and government civilians meet their weight management goals."
The updated ShipShape Program curriculum ensures that each of the program's eight sessions cover three essential components for weight management: mindset, nutrition, and physical activity. It also integrates engaging activities that promote both participant interaction and individual accomplishments.
Reporting form revisions include a consolidated attendance roster and reporting form, auto-population features for follow-up reporting, and other updated features that provide an easy-to-use tool for participant tracking.
"In addition to the overall redesign of the program, we also focused on increasing interaction between ShipShape Program facilitators and NMCPHC, as the program manager," said Vickers. "We established a forum via milSuite for facilitators to ask questions, share their experiences, and provide program feedback."
Since November 2014, NMCPHC has trained and/or recertified approximately 130 ShipShape Program facilitators from across the Navy.
The ShipShape Program is the official Navy weight management program that assists active duty and reserve military service members, beneficiaries, and government civilians with making healthy behavior changes to reach their weight management goals. The program is administered at local medical treatment facilities (MTFs) and clinics, shipboard commands, and other ashore facilities.
Learn more about the ShipShape Program at:http://www.med.navy.mil/sites/
For more news from Navy and Marine Corps Public Health Center, visitwww.navy.mil/local/nmcphc/.
SWO Bonus Reauthorized
From Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Navy has reauthorized the Revised Surface Warfare Officer Critical Skills Retention Bonus (RSWOCSRB) in NAVADMIN 057/15 allowing contracts to again be written.
Authority for the bonus lapsed in December due to staffing delays in coordinating the approval for reauthorization.
Officers who were impacted by the delay were contacted by their detailer in December to help them understand how it would impact their career planning and encouraged to take the bonus prior to the authority expiration.
Those officers who went over the six years of service during the lapse may sign a contract on a prorated basis.
With the bonus renewal eligible lieutenant commanders who had not yet signed up for the SWO Critical Skills Bonus (SWOCSB) before Dec. 16 can sign-up for the total bonus amount as long as they sign prior to the second anniversary of their promotion to O-4.
Eligibility requirements for department head bonus are found in NAVADMIN 156/12 and for lieutenant commander bonus they are listed in NAVADMINs 326/02, 084/10 and 156/12.
Officers who have questions on bonus requirements or status may contact the surface warfare community manager at (901) 874-3173 or DSN 882-3173.
For more news from Chief of Naval Personnel, visitwww.navy.mil/local/cnp/.
From Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Navy has reauthorized the Revised Surface Warfare Officer Critical Skills Retention Bonus (RSWOCSRB) in NAVADMIN 057/15 allowing contracts to again be written.
Authority for the bonus lapsed in December due to staffing delays in coordinating the approval for reauthorization.
Officers who were impacted by the delay were contacted by their detailer in December to help them understand how it would impact their career planning and encouraged to take the bonus prior to the authority expiration.
Those officers who went over the six years of service during the lapse may sign a contract on a prorated basis.
With the bonus renewal eligible lieutenant commanders who had not yet signed up for the SWO Critical Skills Bonus (SWOCSB) before Dec. 16 can sign-up for the total bonus amount as long as they sign prior to the second anniversary of their promotion to O-4.
Eligibility requirements for department head bonus are found in NAVADMIN 156/12 and for lieutenant commander bonus they are listed in NAVADMINs 326/02, 084/10 and 156/12.
Officers who have questions on bonus requirements or status may contact the surface warfare community manager at (901) 874-3173 or DSN 882-3173.
For more news from Chief of Naval Personnel, visitwww.navy.mil/local/cnp/.
Navy Adds Measures to Enhance Safety During Shipboard Flight Operations
From Commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet Public Affairs
SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- New procedures that will aid surface warfare officers and helicopter pilots while increasing safety during flight operations on destroyers have been successfully tested and recently rolled out to the fleet.
"Operator polar plots" (OPP) consist of a series of placard overlays that identify limits and safety considerations that take into account a ship's speed and sea conditions in addition to pitch, roll and relative winds. Based on the height and direction of waves, a specific OPP is used by both the ship's officer of the deck and the helicopter pilot to determine the best options for safely landing a helicopter on a ship's flight deck.
Destroyers and their aviation detachment crews fleetwide have been trained on using the OPPs. As well, surface officers in training pipelines including the Basic Division Officer Course, Surface Warfare Officer School, and prospective CO/XO indoctrination are also being trained on their usage before heading to their new commands.
"This was a joint effort across several commands," said Capt. Jack Olive, responsible for aviation operations aboard surface ships for Commander Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet. "Naval Sea Systems Command, Naval Air Systems Command, Naval Air Forces, Navy Safety Center and Naval Surface Forces worked together to address the safety concerns of landing helicopters on low freeboard flight decks, such as destroyers."
A low freeboard flight deck is one that is close enough to the surface of the water such that a wave could wash over the flight deck, creating a hazardous situation for crew and equipment. Olive noted that Arleigh Burke-class destroyers have a flight deck approximately 13 feet above the waterline.
"Because the deck is so close to the waterline, conditions could exist that allow waves to more readily come over the deck," Olive said.
He said such a condition was cited as a factor in a 2013 mishap aboard an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer where two aviators lost their lives and an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter was lost when a wave washed over the deck and swept the helicopter overboard.
"We are continuously reassessing our safety procedures," said Capt. Curtis Shaub, aviation safety director for Naval Air Forces. "In this case, we specifically looked at how best to prevent this sort of mishap from occurring in the future. We have been working to mitigate the risks involved and to come up with a better, more comprehensive solution."
OPPs are placards that officers of the deck use to plot the ship's heading and speed, with overlays designed for certain sea states to determine limits for safe handling during flight operations. The direction of waves relative to the ship heading and ship speed are also marked on the placard. This plotted point will exist somewhere on the graph and if a given condition (denoted by different colors and crosshatch marks) indicate potentially risky or dangerous conditions, the ship can take actions, such as adjusting ship's course and speed, to mitigate those conditions.
Ship speed is shown in five-knot increments on concentric circles from the center of a graph, with waves shown relative to the ship's position. Red and yellow areas are speed-heading combinations to be avoided. Regions defined by dark lines with cross hatching reflect areas where launch and recovery roll and pitch limits may be exceeded.
"We conducted a preliminary exercise in September by giving the polar plots to six officers -- three surface warfare officers and three pilots -- with only a written explanation and no other guidance," said Olive. "They were put in situations that required them to use polar plots to assess and manage the risk. The group successfully used the polar plots with ease and recommended integrating them into the fleet."
Shaub said while no single procedure or process can fully prevent future mishaps, the goal of utilizing OPPs is, "to provide Sailors with risk mitigation tools which will help them to make more informed decisions."
"Operations at sea and in aviation are complex and inherently dangerous," he said. "Our sea-air teams are trained to look at everything we do from exercises to real-world operations through a lens of safety. Now that these OPPs have been integrated throughout the fleet, we're better prepared for challenging sea conditions. We'll be monitoring their effect and continually improving them based on what we learn."
For more news from Naval Surface Forces, visit www.navy.mil/local/cnsp/.
From Commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet Public Affairs
SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- New procedures that will aid surface warfare officers and helicopter pilots while increasing safety during flight operations on destroyers have been successfully tested and recently rolled out to the fleet.
"Operator polar plots" (OPP) consist of a series of placard overlays that identify limits and safety considerations that take into account a ship's speed and sea conditions in addition to pitch, roll and relative winds. Based on the height and direction of waves, a specific OPP is used by both the ship's officer of the deck and the helicopter pilot to determine the best options for safely landing a helicopter on a ship's flight deck.
Destroyers and their aviation detachment crews fleetwide have been trained on using the OPPs. As well, surface officers in training pipelines including the Basic Division Officer Course, Surface Warfare Officer School, and prospective CO/XO indoctrination are also being trained on their usage before heading to their new commands.
"This was a joint effort across several commands," said Capt. Jack Olive, responsible for aviation operations aboard surface ships for Commander Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet. "Naval Sea Systems Command, Naval Air Systems Command, Naval Air Forces, Navy Safety Center and Naval Surface Forces worked together to address the safety concerns of landing helicopters on low freeboard flight decks, such as destroyers."
A low freeboard flight deck is one that is close enough to the surface of the water such that a wave could wash over the flight deck, creating a hazardous situation for crew and equipment. Olive noted that Arleigh Burke-class destroyers have a flight deck approximately 13 feet above the waterline.
"Because the deck is so close to the waterline, conditions could exist that allow waves to more readily come over the deck," Olive said.
He said such a condition was cited as a factor in a 2013 mishap aboard an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer where two aviators lost their lives and an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter was lost when a wave washed over the deck and swept the helicopter overboard.
"We are continuously reassessing our safety procedures," said Capt. Curtis Shaub, aviation safety director for Naval Air Forces. "In this case, we specifically looked at how best to prevent this sort of mishap from occurring in the future. We have been working to mitigate the risks involved and to come up with a better, more comprehensive solution."
OPPs are placards that officers of the deck use to plot the ship's heading and speed, with overlays designed for certain sea states to determine limits for safe handling during flight operations. The direction of waves relative to the ship heading and ship speed are also marked on the placard. This plotted point will exist somewhere on the graph and if a given condition (denoted by different colors and crosshatch marks) indicate potentially risky or dangerous conditions, the ship can take actions, such as adjusting ship's course and speed, to mitigate those conditions.
Ship speed is shown in five-knot increments on concentric circles from the center of a graph, with waves shown relative to the ship's position. Red and yellow areas are speed-heading combinations to be avoided. Regions defined by dark lines with cross hatching reflect areas where launch and recovery roll and pitch limits may be exceeded.
"We conducted a preliminary exercise in September by giving the polar plots to six officers -- three surface warfare officers and three pilots -- with only a written explanation and no other guidance," said Olive. "They were put in situations that required them to use polar plots to assess and manage the risk. The group successfully used the polar plots with ease and recommended integrating them into the fleet."
Shaub said while no single procedure or process can fully prevent future mishaps, the goal of utilizing OPPs is, "to provide Sailors with risk mitigation tools which will help them to make more informed decisions."
"Operations at sea and in aviation are complex and inherently dangerous," he said. "Our sea-air teams are trained to look at everything we do from exercises to real-world operations through a lens of safety. Now that these OPPs have been integrated throughout the fleet, we're better prepared for challenging sea conditions. We'll be monitoring their effect and continually improving them based on what we learn."
For more news from Naval Surface Forces, visit www.navy.mil/local/cnsp/.
CNO, CNP Talk Personnel on Conversation with a Shipmate
By Chief Mass Communication Specialist Julianne F. Metzger, Chief of Naval Operations Public Affairs
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The Navy's top admiral and personnel chief released another installment March 2 of the Internet video series, "Conversation with a Shipmate."
Lt. Caroline Hutcheson and Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Elliott Fabrizio interviewed Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Jonathan Greenert and Chief of Naval Personnel (CNP) Vice Adm. Bill Moran last week.
Deep in the belly of the Pentagon, CNO and CNP answered questions regarding Navy personnel. Together they tackled salient manning issues: modernizing Navy's outdated personnel system, maximizing career-long technical training, moving away from year-group management, and reassessing the Body Composition Assessment (BCA) standards for the biannual Physical Fitness Assessment (PFA).
Greenert began the conversation by saying that taking care of Sailors is both a short and long term issue. Today, the Navy is focused on improving manning and manpower by filling gapped billets at sea, stabilizing promotion opportunities, and working to make deployment lengths shorter and more predictable. In the future, CNO said the focus will be on recruiting, training and retaining the right force to meet tomorrow's challenges.
"People are our asymmetric advantage," Greenert said. "We ask them to do so much and we need to take care of them in the here and now."
Meanwhile Moran addressed opportunities he views now to update and invest in how the Navy manages its people. He noted that the current personnel system requires a major overhaul, having not been appreciably changed since the 1940's.
"We want motivated, smart people to stay in our Navy," said Moran.
Moran went on to say specifically that the year-group system for officers and enlisted is a "fundamental flaw" in the Navy's system for managing its people.
"We've upgraded our ships, our computers and our weapons systems," said Greenert. "It's time to upgrade our personnel system. We're going to pull together and make this right."
Despite both leaders' desire to modernize the systems in place, both enthusiastically praised those Sailors working in and around the Navy that diligently manage the Navy's human resources.
"We've got phenomenal people working in Millington; community managers, and detailers," said Moran. I look forward to the coming months where we can create tools they can use to make the Navy even better, Moran said also.
Greenert too had a message of gratitude to Sailors who enable the Navy to sail smoothly on a daily basis.
"Our people are getting it done," said Greenert. "We're going to bring our personnel system to the 21st century."
For the full-length interview, tune into Conversation with a Shipmate on your Direct-to-Sailor network or go to this link: http://www.navy.mil/
For more news from Chief of Naval Operations, visitwww.navy.mil/local/cno/.
By Chief Mass Communication Specialist Julianne F. Metzger, Chief of Naval Operations Public Affairs
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The Navy's top admiral and personnel chief released another installment March 2 of the Internet video series, "Conversation with a Shipmate."
Lt. Caroline Hutcheson and Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Elliott Fabrizio interviewed Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Jonathan Greenert and Chief of Naval Personnel (CNP) Vice Adm. Bill Moran last week.
Deep in the belly of the Pentagon, CNO and CNP answered questions regarding Navy personnel. Together they tackled salient manning issues: modernizing Navy's outdated personnel system, maximizing career-long technical training, moving away from year-group management, and reassessing the Body Composition Assessment (BCA) standards for the biannual Physical Fitness Assessment (PFA).
Greenert began the conversation by saying that taking care of Sailors is both a short and long term issue. Today, the Navy is focused on improving manning and manpower by filling gapped billets at sea, stabilizing promotion opportunities, and working to make deployment lengths shorter and more predictable. In the future, CNO said the focus will be on recruiting, training and retaining the right force to meet tomorrow's challenges.
"People are our asymmetric advantage," Greenert said. "We ask them to do so much and we need to take care of them in the here and now."
Meanwhile Moran addressed opportunities he views now to update and invest in how the Navy manages its people. He noted that the current personnel system requires a major overhaul, having not been appreciably changed since the 1940's.
"We want motivated, smart people to stay in our Navy," said Moran.
Moran went on to say specifically that the year-group system for officers and enlisted is a "fundamental flaw" in the Navy's system for managing its people.
"We've upgraded our ships, our computers and our weapons systems," said Greenert. "It's time to upgrade our personnel system. We're going to pull together and make this right."
Despite both leaders' desire to modernize the systems in place, both enthusiastically praised those Sailors working in and around the Navy that diligently manage the Navy's human resources.
"We've got phenomenal people working in Millington; community managers, and detailers," said Moran. I look forward to the coming months where we can create tools they can use to make the Navy even better, Moran said also.
Greenert too had a message of gratitude to Sailors who enable the Navy to sail smoothly on a daily basis.
"Our people are getting it done," said Greenert. "We're going to bring our personnel system to the 21st century."
For the full-length interview, tune into Conversation with a Shipmate on your Direct-to-Sailor network or go to this link: http://www.navy.mil/
For more news from Chief of Naval Operations, visitwww.navy.mil/local/cno/.
Standard Operating Procedures Available to Assist Personnel Actions
From Navy Personnel Command Public Affairs Office
MILLINGTON, Tenn. (NNS) -- The Pay and Personnel Administrative Support System (PASS) program has created more than 30 standard operating procedures (SOP) to help Sailors perform their day-to-day personnel activities like travel claims and updating records Navy administrators said recently.
The SOPs are accessed through the Manpower, Personnel, Training and Education (MPT&E) intranet on any command access card-enabled computer. A fact sheet is available to show you how to access the SOPs as part of Navy Personnel Command's Plain Talk series atwww.npc.navy.mil/career/
"Accurate records really start and end with Sailors. We have had some travel claims taking longer to process than we like lately," said Senior Chief Personnel Specialist (SW/AW) Paul A. Smith II, Performance Management Branch, Pay and Personnel Management Division, Navy Personnel Command. "We have created a checklist that Sailors can print out prior to their permanent-change-of-station travel, stick it in a plastic bag or envelope and take with them. If they take everything on the checklist, put it in the bag and give it to their command pass coordinator (CPC) at the other end, they should have no problems getting their travel claim settled quickly."
Travel claims are just one of the many things covered by the SOPs, other subjects include special pays, basic housing allowance, fleet reserve and retirement requests, updating emergency data and transfers to mention a few.
"The CPC exists to support the Sailor, and Sailors can educate themselves and help their CPCs at the same time by knowing what they need to do in order to get processes done," said Smith. "It is the Sailor's career, so we want them to have the tools to make it run as smoothly as possible."
For more information on other pay and personnel issues go towww.npc.navy.mil.
For more news from Navy Personnel Command, visitwww.navy.mil/local/npc/.
From Navy Personnel Command Public Affairs Office
MILLINGTON, Tenn. (NNS) -- The Pay and Personnel Administrative Support System (PASS) program has created more than 30 standard operating procedures (SOP) to help Sailors perform their day-to-day personnel activities like travel claims and updating records Navy administrators said recently.
The SOPs are accessed through the Manpower, Personnel, Training and Education (MPT&E) intranet on any command access card-enabled computer. A fact sheet is available to show you how to access the SOPs as part of Navy Personnel Command's Plain Talk series atwww.npc.navy.mil/career/
"Accurate records really start and end with Sailors. We have had some travel claims taking longer to process than we like lately," said Senior Chief Personnel Specialist (SW/AW) Paul A. Smith II, Performance Management Branch, Pay and Personnel Management Division, Navy Personnel Command. "We have created a checklist that Sailors can print out prior to their permanent-change-of-station travel, stick it in a plastic bag or envelope and take with them. If they take everything on the checklist, put it in the bag and give it to their command pass coordinator (CPC) at the other end, they should have no problems getting their travel claim settled quickly."
Travel claims are just one of the many things covered by the SOPs, other subjects include special pays, basic housing allowance, fleet reserve and retirement requests, updating emergency data and transfers to mention a few.
"The CPC exists to support the Sailor, and Sailors can educate themselves and help their CPCs at the same time by knowing what they need to do in order to get processes done," said Smith. "It is the Sailor's career, so we want them to have the tools to make it run as smoothly as possible."
For more information on other pay and personnel issues go towww.npc.navy.mil.
For more news from Navy Personnel Command, visitwww.navy.mil/local/npc/.
SPAWAR FRD Improves Shipboard Combat Readiness
By Krishna M. Jackson, SPAWAR Public Affairs
SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command (SPAWAR) integrated a system of systems operability testing (SOT) capability for combatant ships onboard USS Curtis Wilbur (DDG 54), which just completed an availability and sea trial period utilizing the new SOT combat readiness testing, March 6.
SOTs are part of ensuring interdependent command and control systems work seamlessly. Combat systems command and control is referred to as C5I and encompasses everything C4I (command, control, communications, computers, and intelligence) does, but includes combat systems. SPAWAR Fleet Readiness Directorate (FRD) along with associated Program Executive Offices (PEOs) oversee many of these C4I and C5I systems onboard Navy ships, including acquisition, installation and support for command and control of advanced military information technology (IT) systems. However, the process of modernizing and upgrading a ship's command and control system has proven challenging.
"I know that some of the discrepancies discovered would have taken months for the ship to finally realize, troubleshoot, find and fix on their own without system SMEs onboard," said Cmdr. Ryan Mahelona, SPAWAR FRD C5I SOT test director on the effectiveness of the C5I SOT aboard Curtis Wilbur. "As a forward deployed naval force ship, time is critical, especially when operational demands warrant the need to be ready."
The concept of a C5I SOT test was initially formulated in 2010 and was first implemented on a limited scale on a few force level ships. Since then, C5I SOT testing has evolved into the current format which has been largely driven by the fielding of the Navy's newest C4I system: Consolidated Afloat Network Enterprise System (CANES).
"In recent years, the level of system to system interoperability has grown and the sophistication of software and hardware elements more complex," said Mahelona referring to CANES. "As a result, a higher level of system interoperability is required, which has led to greater concern in combat system interdependence on C4I systems."
CANES is the latest tactical network being installed on Navy ships. It consolidates five legacy network systems into one, increasing operational effectiveness and interoperability. It will influence the advancement of C4I and C5I testing processes and, according to Mahelona, influence the way the Navy looks at C4I and C5I.
"This all came about because of the gaps that existed with C4I testing and emphasis on interoperability," said Mahelona. "When we talk about asymmetric warfare, we need to look at how we deliver the ships to the fleet in the highest readiness form that we can. In order to do that, we came up with this concept of doing a systems of systems operability test, because the system operability verification tests (SOVTs) being done are specific to a particular system."
The FRD developed SOVTs to address operational efficiency and to validate the functionality of respective systems, but ships that receive modernized/upgraded installs like CANES often experience problems with interoperability. In addition, a lack of emphasis on C5I testing prior to a ship's basic training phase frequently resulted in discrepancies being discovered late in the training cycle, and in some cases, just prior to the ship deploying.
"This SOT is a level six and level seven test that tests systems of systems interoperability, which typically require higher level link testing," said FRD Installations Program Manager Capt. Allan Walters. "The SOT is primarily at the end of an availability to bring together legacy testing and new system testing. The ship will then have the confidence that the systems work properly prior to going into their workups."
C5I SOT testing currently is not a fleet requirement, despite increasing requests from the fleet. Since October 2013, C5I SOTs have been executed on eleven destroyers, one amphibious assault ship and two aircraft carriers.
"By design, the C5I SOT brings a C5I testing emphasis earlier into the training cycle and before the ship's basic training phase," said Mahelona. "Based on the ships we have done, we're definitely heading in the right direction."
As the Navy's Information Dominance systems command, SPAWAR designs, develops and deploys advanced communications and information capabilities for the warfighter. With nearly 10,000 acquisition professionals located around the world and close to the fleet, the organization is at the forefront of research, engineering and support services that provide vital decision superiority for the warfighter.
For more news on the Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command, visithttp://www.public.navy.mil/
For more news from Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command, visitwww.navy.mil/local/spawar/.
By Krishna M. Jackson, SPAWAR Public Affairs
SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command (SPAWAR) integrated a system of systems operability testing (SOT) capability for combatant ships onboard USS Curtis Wilbur (DDG 54), which just completed an availability and sea trial period utilizing the new SOT combat readiness testing, March 6.
SOTs are part of ensuring interdependent command and control systems work seamlessly. Combat systems command and control is referred to as C5I and encompasses everything C4I (command, control, communications, computers, and intelligence) does, but includes combat systems. SPAWAR Fleet Readiness Directorate (FRD) along with associated Program Executive Offices (PEOs) oversee many of these C4I and C5I systems onboard Navy ships, including acquisition, installation and support for command and control of advanced military information technology (IT) systems. However, the process of modernizing and upgrading a ship's command and control system has proven challenging.
"I know that some of the discrepancies discovered would have taken months for the ship to finally realize, troubleshoot, find and fix on their own without system SMEs onboard," said Cmdr. Ryan Mahelona, SPAWAR FRD C5I SOT test director on the effectiveness of the C5I SOT aboard Curtis Wilbur. "As a forward deployed naval force ship, time is critical, especially when operational demands warrant the need to be ready."
The concept of a C5I SOT test was initially formulated in 2010 and was first implemented on a limited scale on a few force level ships. Since then, C5I SOT testing has evolved into the current format which has been largely driven by the fielding of the Navy's newest C4I system: Consolidated Afloat Network Enterprise System (CANES).
"In recent years, the level of system to system interoperability has grown and the sophistication of software and hardware elements more complex," said Mahelona referring to CANES. "As a result, a higher level of system interoperability is required, which has led to greater concern in combat system interdependence on C4I systems."
CANES is the latest tactical network being installed on Navy ships. It consolidates five legacy network systems into one, increasing operational effectiveness and interoperability. It will influence the advancement of C4I and C5I testing processes and, according to Mahelona, influence the way the Navy looks at C4I and C5I.
"This all came about because of the gaps that existed with C4I testing and emphasis on interoperability," said Mahelona. "When we talk about asymmetric warfare, we need to look at how we deliver the ships to the fleet in the highest readiness form that we can. In order to do that, we came up with this concept of doing a systems of systems operability test, because the system operability verification tests (SOVTs) being done are specific to a particular system."
The FRD developed SOVTs to address operational efficiency and to validate the functionality of respective systems, but ships that receive modernized/upgraded installs like CANES often experience problems with interoperability. In addition, a lack of emphasis on C5I testing prior to a ship's basic training phase frequently resulted in discrepancies being discovered late in the training cycle, and in some cases, just prior to the ship deploying.
"This SOT is a level six and level seven test that tests systems of systems interoperability, which typically require higher level link testing," said FRD Installations Program Manager Capt. Allan Walters. "The SOT is primarily at the end of an availability to bring together legacy testing and new system testing. The ship will then have the confidence that the systems work properly prior to going into their workups."
C5I SOT testing currently is not a fleet requirement, despite increasing requests from the fleet. Since October 2013, C5I SOTs have been executed on eleven destroyers, one amphibious assault ship and two aircraft carriers.
"By design, the C5I SOT brings a C5I testing emphasis earlier into the training cycle and before the ship's basic training phase," said Mahelona. "Based on the ships we have done, we're definitely heading in the right direction."
As the Navy's Information Dominance systems command, SPAWAR designs, develops and deploys advanced communications and information capabilities for the warfighter. With nearly 10,000 acquisition professionals located around the world and close to the fleet, the organization is at the forefront of research, engineering and support services that provide vital decision superiority for the warfighter.
For more news on the Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command, visithttp://www.public.navy.mil/
For more news from Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command, visitwww.navy.mil/local/spawar/.
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/.
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/.
Sailor Continues Family's Dive Legacy During YOMD Celebration
By Jacqui Barker, Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division Public Affairs
PANAMA CITY, Fla. (NNS) -- Ask any military diver today or from yesteryear about what makes their military community so special and you'll hear one word: Brotherhood.
For two men stationed onboard Naval Support Activity Panama City (NSA PC) Florida, this brotherhood allows them to share both a personal and professional bond in the home of military diving during this, the Year of the Military Diver.
Naval Diving and Salvage Training Center (NDSTC)'s Training Officer Lt. Jason Junker today serves in the U.S. Navy's diving community as an explosive ordnance disposal officer just across the base from his father David Junker, a retired master chief machinist's mate and diver, who serves as the in-service engineering agent for the explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) systems at the Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division (NSWC PCD). The latter Junker retired in 1997 after 20 years on active duty and four years in the reserves.
"Being a Navy diver to me means being part of a long legacy of Navy divers, conducting work under extraordinarily difficult conditions. That was very rewarding for me," said Dave Junker. "On many occasions during my career, I reflected on how much I enjoyed the work and camaraderie, ultimately leading to a full career in this field."
Following in his father's impressive and successful footsteps, Jason graduated from Bay High School in 1997 and enlisted in the Navy in 1999. Working his way up through the enlisted ranks and the EOD community, he advanced to chief petty officer before he was selected for the Seaman-to-Admiral program in which he earned his commission. Since first enlisting, Jason has served in Operations Enduring Freedom and OIF. He has been stationed at EOD mobile units 2, 6, and 5. Today, Junker is NDSTC's third in command.
"Being a military diver means having the honor to follow in the footsteps of some of the bravest men and women who have served our country," said Jason. "It's also about maintaining the proud tradition and heritage they built for us, while moving forward in today's Navy and creating new milestones for future military divers to be proud."
While his most memorable dive job or duty station to date remains with EOD Mobile Unit 2 in Kandahar, Afghanistan, he can embrace the legacy of being in the military dive community during the Year of the Military Diver commemoration. This year, 2015, is also the 100th anniversary of the Mark V dive suit and NDSTC's 35th anniversary.
"The year of the military diver offers a time to gather the diving communities from all DOD services together to share experiences and discuss our history," said Jason. "It provides a rare opportunity for young divers to give something back to those that went before us. It also offers education and quality interaction between our diving community and Bay County leadership."
For Dave Junker, who grew up in Galion, Ohio, enlisted in the Navy's submarine community in 1972. He fondly remembers when the facilities that now embody the home of military diving were being built on the Navy base in Bay County, Florida. It's an area that he proudly calls home and has worked at NSWC PCD now for 10 years.
"I was on staff at the Washington Navy Yard until 1978 and I went through first class dive school here in 1980 when the old YDTs were here," said Dave. "I had a four-year break in service and was in the reserves with the Harbor Clearance Unit in Seattle. A chief petty officer I had worked for persuaded me to return to active duty."
Initially, Dave was a "nuke" before he became a Navy diver and was stationed onboard USS Proteus (AS 19), and served in a staff billet at Navy First Class Dive School, Washington Navy Yard, before the function was transferred to NDSTC by 1980. He was also stationed at Naval Medical Research Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, MV Seaforth Clansman with the British Ministry of Defense diver exchange program, USS Ortolan (ASR 22) as a saturation diver, and the Submarine Development Group One, where he worked deep submergence operations support. Finally, he worked at the Navy Experimental Diving Unit (NEDU) located onboard NSA PC in Panama City, Florida, where he served as an unmanned test director and unlimited dive supervisor. Of all the wide range of experiences Dave had throughout his 20 year of Navy diving, he fondly recalls his work as a research subject between 1984 and 1987 at the Naval Medical Research Institute.
"What made this job so memorable for me was the testing and understanding the limits of physiological and psychological limitations for extended underwater missions," said Dave.
Today, Dave reflects on what being a Navy diver has meant to him.
"To be part of a long legacy of Navy divers, conducting work under extraordinarily difficult conditions was very rewarding," he said. "On many occasions during my career, I reflected on how much I enjoyed the work and camaraderie, ultimately leading to a full career in this field."
Today, Dave continues to support his dive community but these days it's as a federal civil servant working on EOD systems at NSWC PCD, which is a research, development, test and evaluation facility. Over the years, he has not only watched the base grow into a military dive hub, he has been a major part of it.
"Certainly, in our local community, Navy divers are well known and are hopefully well regarded," said Dave. "Panama City has been the hub of Navy dive training since 1980 when NDSTC opened, and with the Navy Experimental Diving Unit (NEDU) being here since 1970."
Military divers have been stationed or trained at the Navy base for almost 60 years when divers worked at the base - then called the Mine Defense Laboratory - on mine countermeasures, and diving and life support programs. Those programs have endured and are now supported by NSWC PCD where Dave Junker is employed working engineering and system development for EOD and diving.
"For many divers, Bay County feels like your hometown because at some point, we've all come through the dive school for training," said Jason. "Small, specialized communities, like EOD or divers, tend to go unnoticed most of the time to the public. Panama City and Panama City Beach are unique in that they are exposed to such a large number of men and women divers from all services and Department of Defense (DoD) organizations. The local public seems to recognize the work and sacrifice that the diving community has made and has supported our service members extremely well."
At NDSTC, Junker is responsible for all NDSTC training courses for each branch of service, foreign national and interagency programs. Annually, NDSTC trains more than 1,300 students in various subjects in all ranks. Specifically, NDSTC houses 23 certified diver life support systems, which include six hyperbaric recompression chambers, two diving simulation facilities capable to 300 feet, an aquatics training facility which is the second largest pool in the U.S., a submarine lock-out trunk and two 133-foot yard diving tenders (YDT) for open, ocean-diving support with recompression chambers and mixed gas diving capabilities.
"Jason Junker is a tribute to Panama City. He grew up in this city and graduated from Bay High School," said NDSTC Commanding Officer Cmdr. Hung Cao. "Today, he is not only walking in his father's footsteps but he is also the training officer responsible for developing the next generation of divers."
NDSTC students are trained in basic gas laws, diving medicine, recompression chamber operations, salvage mathematics, and salvage operations. The schoolhouse is the largest diving facility in the world and it trains military divers from all services. More than 1,300 students train each year in the 23 courses. Students include candidates for submarine SCUBA, U.S. Navy deep sea divers, Seabee underwater construction divers, joint service diving officers, explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) divers, diving medical technicians, diving medical officers, U.S. Army Engineer divers, U.S. Marine Corps combatant divers, U.S. Coast Guard divers, and U.S. Air Force pararescue operators and combat controllers. A limited number of U.S. law enforcement, U.S. government agency and students from allied and coalition nations also train at NDSTC.
NSWC PCD: Technical Center of Excellence for Littoral Warfare & Coastal Defense
For more news from Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division, visit www.navy.mil/local/NSWC/.
By Jacqui Barker, Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division Public Affairs
PANAMA CITY, Fla. (NNS) -- Ask any military diver today or from yesteryear about what makes their military community so special and you'll hear one word: Brotherhood.
For two men stationed onboard Naval Support Activity Panama City (NSA PC) Florida, this brotherhood allows them to share both a personal and professional bond in the home of military diving during this, the Year of the Military Diver.
Naval Diving and Salvage Training Center (NDSTC)'s Training Officer Lt. Jason Junker today serves in the U.S. Navy's diving community as an explosive ordnance disposal officer just across the base from his father David Junker, a retired master chief machinist's mate and diver, who serves as the in-service engineering agent for the explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) systems at the Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division (NSWC PCD). The latter Junker retired in 1997 after 20 years on active duty and four years in the reserves.
"Being a Navy diver to me means being part of a long legacy of Navy divers, conducting work under extraordinarily difficult conditions. That was very rewarding for me," said Dave Junker. "On many occasions during my career, I reflected on how much I enjoyed the work and camaraderie, ultimately leading to a full career in this field."
Following in his father's impressive and successful footsteps, Jason graduated from Bay High School in 1997 and enlisted in the Navy in 1999. Working his way up through the enlisted ranks and the EOD community, he advanced to chief petty officer before he was selected for the Seaman-to-Admiral program in which he earned his commission. Since first enlisting, Jason has served in Operations Enduring Freedom and OIF. He has been stationed at EOD mobile units 2, 6, and 5. Today, Junker is NDSTC's third in command.
"Being a military diver means having the honor to follow in the footsteps of some of the bravest men and women who have served our country," said Jason. "It's also about maintaining the proud tradition and heritage they built for us, while moving forward in today's Navy and creating new milestones for future military divers to be proud."
While his most memorable dive job or duty station to date remains with EOD Mobile Unit 2 in Kandahar, Afghanistan, he can embrace the legacy of being in the military dive community during the Year of the Military Diver commemoration. This year, 2015, is also the 100th anniversary of the Mark V dive suit and NDSTC's 35th anniversary.
"The year of the military diver offers a time to gather the diving communities from all DOD services together to share experiences and discuss our history," said Jason. "It provides a rare opportunity for young divers to give something back to those that went before us. It also offers education and quality interaction between our diving community and Bay County leadership."
For Dave Junker, who grew up in Galion, Ohio, enlisted in the Navy's submarine community in 1972. He fondly remembers when the facilities that now embody the home of military diving were being built on the Navy base in Bay County, Florida. It's an area that he proudly calls home and has worked at NSWC PCD now for 10 years.
"I was on staff at the Washington Navy Yard until 1978 and I went through first class dive school here in 1980 when the old YDTs were here," said Dave. "I had a four-year break in service and was in the reserves with the Harbor Clearance Unit in Seattle. A chief petty officer I had worked for persuaded me to return to active duty."
Initially, Dave was a "nuke" before he became a Navy diver and was stationed onboard USS Proteus (AS 19), and served in a staff billet at Navy First Class Dive School, Washington Navy Yard, before the function was transferred to NDSTC by 1980. He was also stationed at Naval Medical Research Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, MV Seaforth Clansman with the British Ministry of Defense diver exchange program, USS Ortolan (ASR 22) as a saturation diver, and the Submarine Development Group One, where he worked deep submergence operations support. Finally, he worked at the Navy Experimental Diving Unit (NEDU) located onboard NSA PC in Panama City, Florida, where he served as an unmanned test director and unlimited dive supervisor. Of all the wide range of experiences Dave had throughout his 20 year of Navy diving, he fondly recalls his work as a research subject between 1984 and 1987 at the Naval Medical Research Institute.
"What made this job so memorable for me was the testing and understanding the limits of physiological and psychological limitations for extended underwater missions," said Dave.
Today, Dave reflects on what being a Navy diver has meant to him.
"To be part of a long legacy of Navy divers, conducting work under extraordinarily difficult conditions was very rewarding," he said. "On many occasions during my career, I reflected on how much I enjoyed the work and camaraderie, ultimately leading to a full career in this field."
Today, Dave continues to support his dive community but these days it's as a federal civil servant working on EOD systems at NSWC PCD, which is a research, development, test and evaluation facility. Over the years, he has not only watched the base grow into a military dive hub, he has been a major part of it.
"Certainly, in our local community, Navy divers are well known and are hopefully well regarded," said Dave. "Panama City has been the hub of Navy dive training since 1980 when NDSTC opened, and with the Navy Experimental Diving Unit (NEDU) being here since 1970."
Military divers have been stationed or trained at the Navy base for almost 60 years when divers worked at the base - then called the Mine Defense Laboratory - on mine countermeasures, and diving and life support programs. Those programs have endured and are now supported by NSWC PCD where Dave Junker is employed working engineering and system development for EOD and diving.
"For many divers, Bay County feels like your hometown because at some point, we've all come through the dive school for training," said Jason. "Small, specialized communities, like EOD or divers, tend to go unnoticed most of the time to the public. Panama City and Panama City Beach are unique in that they are exposed to such a large number of men and women divers from all services and Department of Defense (DoD) organizations. The local public seems to recognize the work and sacrifice that the diving community has made and has supported our service members extremely well."
At NDSTC, Junker is responsible for all NDSTC training courses for each branch of service, foreign national and interagency programs. Annually, NDSTC trains more than 1,300 students in various subjects in all ranks. Specifically, NDSTC houses 23 certified diver life support systems, which include six hyperbaric recompression chambers, two diving simulation facilities capable to 300 feet, an aquatics training facility which is the second largest pool in the U.S., a submarine lock-out trunk and two 133-foot yard diving tenders (YDT) for open, ocean-diving support with recompression chambers and mixed gas diving capabilities.
"Jason Junker is a tribute to Panama City. He grew up in this city and graduated from Bay High School," said NDSTC Commanding Officer Cmdr. Hung Cao. "Today, he is not only walking in his father's footsteps but he is also the training officer responsible for developing the next generation of divers."
NDSTC students are trained in basic gas laws, diving medicine, recompression chamber operations, salvage mathematics, and salvage operations. The schoolhouse is the largest diving facility in the world and it trains military divers from all services. More than 1,300 students train each year in the 23 courses. Students include candidates for submarine SCUBA, U.S. Navy deep sea divers, Seabee underwater construction divers, joint service diving officers, explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) divers, diving medical technicians, diving medical officers, U.S. Army Engineer divers, U.S. Marine Corps combatant divers, U.S. Coast Guard divers, and U.S. Air Force pararescue operators and combat controllers. A limited number of U.S. law enforcement, U.S. government agency and students from allied and coalition nations also train at NDSTC.
NSWC PCD: Technical Center of Excellence for Littoral Warfare & Coastal Defense
For more news from Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division, visit www.navy.mil/local/NSWC/.
Democracy is a Year-Round Business ... VOTE!
From Navy Installations Command Public Affairs
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- With the 2014 mid-term election in their wake, Sailors might be tempted to forget about absentee voting and politics in general until 2016.
"Not so fast," said Lt. Whit Abraham, the Navy Voting Action Officer.
Odd-numbered years are historically considered "off-years" for voting, and draw fewer voters to the polls. So why should Sailors think about voting now?
Although they often take a back seat to national races, local elections are just as important. Sailors stationed far from home have family members in their hometowns, and may even intend to reside there permanently at some point. Odd-year elections drive important community issues - issues with direct consequences for voters.
"2015 marks many statewide races, mayoral and town elections, and even some special elections for Congress," said Abraham, who manages the Navy's Voting Assistance Program from Washington, D.C. "The local officials up for election in 2015 are the ones who set property tax rates for municipalities and school districts, they're the folks who administer police departments and maintain millions of miles of local roads and bridges, and in many states the judges -- from state Supreme Courts down to local district judges -- are on the ballot this year as well. So you can argue that many of these local officeholders have more to do with the daily lives of American citizens day in and day out than any other elected officials."
As defenders of the right to vote, Sailors are encouraged to participate. "Absentee voting is easy, but the key is giving the process time," said Abraham.
A major first step in the process is visiting the Federal Voting Assistance Program (FVAP) website at http//www.fvap.gov. Here, Sailors can click on their state or territory to get detailed information about registration guidelines and local elections.
Sailors wishing to vote absentee should complete an electronic Federal Post Card Applications (FPCA) early in 2015. The FPCA is a registration form, a request for a ballot, and the preferred way to update your address. Filling out and returning the FPCA updates local election officials on a member's absentee status, and it is especially important if Sailors and spouses have changed duty stations. "An updated FPCA puts you on the radar screen," said Abraham. "When the time comes to mail ballots later this year, election officials will know how to reach you."
Across the Navy, voting assistance is administered at the unit level. Voting assistance officers are appointed by their commanding officer and are trained by the Federal Voting Assistance Program. Besides accessing the FVAP website, voters can speak directly to these individuals who stand ready to assist Sailors and family members.
"Democracy is a year-round business, and so is the Navy Voting Assistance Program. Elections are always happening, and we encourage people to ask questions and take a proactive stance" said Abraham. "We're here to ensure your voice is heard - not just in Washington, but in your local community as well. That's what this year is all about."
For more news from Commander, Navy Installations Command, visitwww.navy.mil/local/cni/.
From Navy Installations Command Public Affairs
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- With the 2014 mid-term election in their wake, Sailors might be tempted to forget about absentee voting and politics in general until 2016.
"Not so fast," said Lt. Whit Abraham, the Navy Voting Action Officer.
Odd-numbered years are historically considered "off-years" for voting, and draw fewer voters to the polls. So why should Sailors think about voting now?
Although they often take a back seat to national races, local elections are just as important. Sailors stationed far from home have family members in their hometowns, and may even intend to reside there permanently at some point. Odd-year elections drive important community issues - issues with direct consequences for voters.
"2015 marks many statewide races, mayoral and town elections, and even some special elections for Congress," said Abraham, who manages the Navy's Voting Assistance Program from Washington, D.C. "The local officials up for election in 2015 are the ones who set property tax rates for municipalities and school districts, they're the folks who administer police departments and maintain millions of miles of local roads and bridges, and in many states the judges -- from state Supreme Courts down to local district judges -- are on the ballot this year as well. So you can argue that many of these local officeholders have more to do with the daily lives of American citizens day in and day out than any other elected officials."
As defenders of the right to vote, Sailors are encouraged to participate. "Absentee voting is easy, but the key is giving the process time," said Abraham.
A major first step in the process is visiting the Federal Voting Assistance Program (FVAP) website at http//www.fvap.gov. Here, Sailors can click on their state or territory to get detailed information about registration guidelines and local elections.
Sailors wishing to vote absentee should complete an electronic Federal Post Card Applications (FPCA) early in 2015. The FPCA is a registration form, a request for a ballot, and the preferred way to update your address. Filling out and returning the FPCA updates local election officials on a member's absentee status, and it is especially important if Sailors and spouses have changed duty stations. "An updated FPCA puts you on the radar screen," said Abraham. "When the time comes to mail ballots later this year, election officials will know how to reach you."
Across the Navy, voting assistance is administered at the unit level. Voting assistance officers are appointed by their commanding officer and are trained by the Federal Voting Assistance Program. Besides accessing the FVAP website, voters can speak directly to these individuals who stand ready to assist Sailors and family members.
"Democracy is a year-round business, and so is the Navy Voting Assistance Program. Elections are always happening, and we encourage people to ask questions and take a proactive stance" said Abraham. "We're here to ensure your voice is heard - not just in Washington, but in your local community as well. That's what this year is all about."
For more news from Commander, Navy Installations Command, visitwww.navy.mil/local/cni/.
Leave-Use It or Lose ItFrom Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Military service members' February leave and earning statement (LES) will carry a reminder that as of Oct. 1, any accrued leave more than 60 days will be lost.
Since 2008 Sailors have been allowed to carryover up to 75 days of leave each fiscal year as authorized by Congress. That authorization will end at the end of fiscal year 2015 after which leave carryover will revert to 60 days. In general, any leave balance in excess of 60 days on Sept. 30, 2015 will be lost.
Service members' LES may have an incorrect use/lose leave balance. Defense Finance and Accounting Services (DFAS) is reprogramming pay systems to account for the return to the 60 day leave carryover by the June 2015 LES.
Sailors should check their LES and talk with their Command Pass Coordinator (CPC) for help understanding their correct use/lose balance.
There are some specific exceptions. Sailors with more leave days than the authorized carryover limit, who are also assigned to hostile fire or imminent danger pay areas or deployed on a ship or mobile unit for at least 60 continuous days, may apply for special leave accrual (SLA) to retain any excess leave days. This request is typically done at the command level. Instructions on how to apply for and administer SLA are outlined in MILPERSMAN 1050-070.
Sailors are encouraged to work with their commands to manage their leave balances throughout FY15.
Commands with questions on leave policies should contact their local Personnel Support Detachment (PSD) or call the NPC Customer Service Center at 1-866-U-ASK-NPC (1-866-827-5672).
For more news from Chief of Naval Personnel, visitwww.navy.mil/local/cnp/.
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Military service members' February leave and earning statement (LES) will carry a reminder that as of Oct. 1, any accrued leave more than 60 days will be lost.
Since 2008 Sailors have been allowed to carryover up to 75 days of leave each fiscal year as authorized by Congress. That authorization will end at the end of fiscal year 2015 after which leave carryover will revert to 60 days. In general, any leave balance in excess of 60 days on Sept. 30, 2015 will be lost.
Service members' LES may have an incorrect use/lose leave balance. Defense Finance and Accounting Services (DFAS) is reprogramming pay systems to account for the return to the 60 day leave carryover by the June 2015 LES.
Sailors should check their LES and talk with their Command Pass Coordinator (CPC) for help understanding their correct use/lose balance.
There are some specific exceptions. Sailors with more leave days than the authorized carryover limit, who are also assigned to hostile fire or imminent danger pay areas or deployed on a ship or mobile unit for at least 60 continuous days, may apply for special leave accrual (SLA) to retain any excess leave days. This request is typically done at the command level. Instructions on how to apply for and administer SLA are outlined in MILPERSMAN 1050-070.
Sailors are encouraged to work with their commands to manage their leave balances throughout FY15.
Commands with questions on leave policies should contact their local Personnel Support Detachment (PSD) or call the NPC Customer Service Center at 1-866-U-ASK-NPC (1-866-827-5672).
For more news from Chief of Naval Personnel, visitwww.navy.mil/local/cnp/.
(Nearly) Free College Degree Possible Through NCPACE
By Susan D. Henson, Center for Personal and Professional Development Public Affairs Officer
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (NNS) -- College tuition is a huge bargain for Sailors taking classes through Navy College Program for Afloat College Education (NCPACE) - in fact it's almost free.
NCPACE, one of numerous programs administered by Navy Voluntary Education (VOLED), is offered to officer and enlisted Sailors assigned to ships and deployable commands (Type 2 and 4 duty) to provide undergraduate and graduate educational opportunities on par with those available to Sailors on shore duty. With tuition funded at 100 percent, students are responsible only for the cost of textbooks and related materials.
Approximately 7,200 individual Sailors participated in NCPACE in FY-13, accounting for more than 10,700 enrollments.
Commands must have an active NCPACE program for Sailors to participate. One such command is the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, which Maintenance Control team member and Education Services Officer (ESO) Aviation Maintenance Administrationman 1st Class (AW) John Phillips is glad about. Using NCPACE, he completed a Master of Arts in administrative leadership with the University of Oklahoma in December.
"I enlisted in the Navy to serve my country and was aware the GI Bill provided an opportunity to complete my education," said Philips. "Once in the Navy, the additional educational benefits offered such as Tuition Assistance (TA), NCPACE, and college-level exams came as a welcome surprise. Each time I reenlisted, the educational benefits -- which far exceed those offered in most civilian employment -- became a reinforcing factor for staying in."
Most Sailors hear "Voluntary Education" (VOLED) and tend to think of TA, which pays tuition for courses toward completion of a high school diploma, certificate, or technical or college degree. While TA is the most popular VOLED program the Navy offers, it has annual caps for each participant to ensure as many Sailors as possible have an opportunity to use it. NCPACE courses, however, don't count against a Sailor's annual maximum TA funding cap while still providing the means for Sailors to complete coursework toward a diploma or degree.
This, coupled with the low cost, makes NCPACE among the best educational deals the Navy offers, according to Lt. Cmdr. Mark Wadsworth, director of Voluntary Education Support Site Saufley Field in Pensacola, Florida.
"Sailors only having to foot the bill for books and course materials is a big savings for them," said Wadsworth. "Taking courses through NCPACE is a really good way for Sailors to continue their education, especially when they've maxed out their TA for the year."
Wadsworth pointed out that all NCPACE schools are regionally accredited, meaning Sailors will have maximum flexibility in transferring credits to their home college. Another benefit of NCPACE is flexible term dates that can be tailored to a unit's deployment cycle at the unit ESO's request.
"While NCPACE doesn't have an annual credit hour cap like TA, we do limit Sailors to two NCPACE courses per term regardless of the delivery method being Instructor Led (IL) or Distance Led (DL)," he said. "This, along with the number of terms a command requests, will determine the number of NCPACE courses a Sailor can potentially complete in a year."
The IL delivery method provides an instructor teaching courses while a ship is underway or pierside, while the DL program allows the flexibility of independent study. NCPACE can be continued during in-port periods through coordination with the local Navy College Office, according to Wadsworth. The NCPACE program also offers IL academic skills classes in math, reading and writing to help Sailors improve their skills in those areas.
Chief Navy Counselor (SW/AW) Travis Cook, command career counselor and ESO for Assault Craft Unit One in Coronado, California, has taken NCPACE courses at four commands, which allowed him to earn an Associate of Applied Science through Excelsior College.
"I found out about NCPACE early in my career through my command career counselor and career development boards," said Cook. "I have no doubt that earning my degree has helped me reach the level I've obtained in the Navy as a chief petty officer. So now when I talk to junior Sailors, I tell them that education will not only benefit you when you decide to leave the service, but it can help you while you're still active."
Cook said finding time to participate in NCPACE is, indeed, possible.
"The most challenging part for me was balancing family, work and the education requirements," said Cook. "I would recommend that any Sailor who's interested to first talk to their command career counselor, a mentor or someone in their chain of command for guidance to make sure they meet command requirements and are eligible."
Phillips said Sailors participating in NCPACE should choose the right course delivery method and be ready to maintain self-discipline.
"The DL program is an outstanding opportunity for those who have the drive and tenacity to complete courses outside of a classroom environment, but it can be challenging for those who appreciate continual interaction from an instructor," said Phillips. "The IL program brings the instructor to the student, but it's still challenging because Sailors must dedicate what little free time they may have toward attending class and completing the coursework."
Cook said the key to any Sailor's success in NCPACE is to effectively prioritize personal responsibilities.
"I tell Sailors to remember that your job comes first," said Cook. "Make sure you're ready to handle the responsibility of work and taking classes. Don't rush into something you're not mentally prepared for. When the time is right, take advantage of all the benefits the Navy has to offer."
"Our leadership recognizes that off-duty education is voluntary, but they consider it valuable and a direct reflection on a Sailor's level of motivation for self-improvement," said Phillips. "As such, off-duty education has become a standard question during our Sailor of the Year and Quarter boards, mid-term counselings, and career development boards. Every Sailor is encouraged to take advantage of the various VOLED programs the Navy offers."
Navy VOLED Director Ernest D'Antonio, also a retired U.S. Marine, is personally aware of the challenge of taking courses while assigned to a deployed unit. He still hopes more Sailors will take advantage of NCPACE. "If Sailors who want a college degree take advantage of NCPACE when they can, it will cost them less time and money in the long run," he said. "This program is an all-around win for Sailors who are working toward their degree and trying to save money. It's also a win for participating commands because, just like all VOLED programs, their Sailors are learning critical thinking and analytical skills that help them make informed decision and perform at a higher level, which contributes to overall mission accomplishment."
To sign up for NCPACE, Sailors should contact their unit ESO or servicing Navy College Office.
By Susan D. Henson, Center for Personal and Professional Development Public Affairs Officer
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (NNS) -- College tuition is a huge bargain for Sailors taking classes through Navy College Program for Afloat College Education (NCPACE) - in fact it's almost free.
NCPACE, one of numerous programs administered by Navy Voluntary Education (VOLED), is offered to officer and enlisted Sailors assigned to ships and deployable commands (Type 2 and 4 duty) to provide undergraduate and graduate educational opportunities on par with those available to Sailors on shore duty. With tuition funded at 100 percent, students are responsible only for the cost of textbooks and related materials.
Approximately 7,200 individual Sailors participated in NCPACE in FY-13, accounting for more than 10,700 enrollments.
Commands must have an active NCPACE program for Sailors to participate. One such command is the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, which Maintenance Control team member and Education Services Officer (ESO) Aviation Maintenance Administrationman 1st Class (AW) John Phillips is glad about. Using NCPACE, he completed a Master of Arts in administrative leadership with the University of Oklahoma in December.
"I enlisted in the Navy to serve my country and was aware the GI Bill provided an opportunity to complete my education," said Philips. "Once in the Navy, the additional educational benefits offered such as Tuition Assistance (TA), NCPACE, and college-level exams came as a welcome surprise. Each time I reenlisted, the educational benefits -- which far exceed those offered in most civilian employment -- became a reinforcing factor for staying in."
Most Sailors hear "Voluntary Education" (VOLED) and tend to think of TA, which pays tuition for courses toward completion of a high school diploma, certificate, or technical or college degree. While TA is the most popular VOLED program the Navy offers, it has annual caps for each participant to ensure as many Sailors as possible have an opportunity to use it. NCPACE courses, however, don't count against a Sailor's annual maximum TA funding cap while still providing the means for Sailors to complete coursework toward a diploma or degree.
This, coupled with the low cost, makes NCPACE among the best educational deals the Navy offers, according to Lt. Cmdr. Mark Wadsworth, director of Voluntary Education Support Site Saufley Field in Pensacola, Florida.
"Sailors only having to foot the bill for books and course materials is a big savings for them," said Wadsworth. "Taking courses through NCPACE is a really good way for Sailors to continue their education, especially when they've maxed out their TA for the year."
Wadsworth pointed out that all NCPACE schools are regionally accredited, meaning Sailors will have maximum flexibility in transferring credits to their home college. Another benefit of NCPACE is flexible term dates that can be tailored to a unit's deployment cycle at the unit ESO's request.
"While NCPACE doesn't have an annual credit hour cap like TA, we do limit Sailors to two NCPACE courses per term regardless of the delivery method being Instructor Led (IL) or Distance Led (DL)," he said. "This, along with the number of terms a command requests, will determine the number of NCPACE courses a Sailor can potentially complete in a year."
The IL delivery method provides an instructor teaching courses while a ship is underway or pierside, while the DL program allows the flexibility of independent study. NCPACE can be continued during in-port periods through coordination with the local Navy College Office, according to Wadsworth. The NCPACE program also offers IL academic skills classes in math, reading and writing to help Sailors improve their skills in those areas.
Chief Navy Counselor (SW/AW) Travis Cook, command career counselor and ESO for Assault Craft Unit One in Coronado, California, has taken NCPACE courses at four commands, which allowed him to earn an Associate of Applied Science through Excelsior College.
"I found out about NCPACE early in my career through my command career counselor and career development boards," said Cook. "I have no doubt that earning my degree has helped me reach the level I've obtained in the Navy as a chief petty officer. So now when I talk to junior Sailors, I tell them that education will not only benefit you when you decide to leave the service, but it can help you while you're still active."
Cook said finding time to participate in NCPACE is, indeed, possible.
"The most challenging part for me was balancing family, work and the education requirements," said Cook. "I would recommend that any Sailor who's interested to first talk to their command career counselor, a mentor or someone in their chain of command for guidance to make sure they meet command requirements and are eligible."
Phillips said Sailors participating in NCPACE should choose the right course delivery method and be ready to maintain self-discipline.
"The DL program is an outstanding opportunity for those who have the drive and tenacity to complete courses outside of a classroom environment, but it can be challenging for those who appreciate continual interaction from an instructor," said Phillips. "The IL program brings the instructor to the student, but it's still challenging because Sailors must dedicate what little free time they may have toward attending class and completing the coursework."
Cook said the key to any Sailor's success in NCPACE is to effectively prioritize personal responsibilities.
"I tell Sailors to remember that your job comes first," said Cook. "Make sure you're ready to handle the responsibility of work and taking classes. Don't rush into something you're not mentally prepared for. When the time is right, take advantage of all the benefits the Navy has to offer."
"Our leadership recognizes that off-duty education is voluntary, but they consider it valuable and a direct reflection on a Sailor's level of motivation for self-improvement," said Phillips. "As such, off-duty education has become a standard question during our Sailor of the Year and Quarter boards, mid-term counselings, and career development boards. Every Sailor is encouraged to take advantage of the various VOLED programs the Navy offers."
Navy VOLED Director Ernest D'Antonio, also a retired U.S. Marine, is personally aware of the challenge of taking courses while assigned to a deployed unit. He still hopes more Sailors will take advantage of NCPACE. "If Sailors who want a college degree take advantage of NCPACE when they can, it will cost them less time and money in the long run," he said. "This program is an all-around win for Sailors who are working toward their degree and trying to save money. It's also a win for participating commands because, just like all VOLED programs, their Sailors are learning critical thinking and analytical skills that help them make informed decision and perform at a higher level, which contributes to overall mission accomplishment."
To sign up for NCPACE, Sailors should contact their unit ESO or servicing Navy College Office.
For more information on the Navy College Program, visit:https://www.navycollege.navy.
For more news from Center for Personal and Professional Development, visit www.navy.mil/local/voledpao/.
For more news from Center for Personal and Professional Development, visit www.navy.mil/local/voledpao/.
Joint Services Transcript Request Process Streamlined
By Susan D. Henson, Center for Personal and Professional Development Public Affairs
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (NNS) -- Sailors can expect their requests for Joint Services Transcript (JST) updates to take less time with a streamlined process that will begin Dec. 15.
The processing change removes the intermediate step of Sailors submitting JST requests to the Center for Personal and Professional Development's (CPPD) Virtual Education Center (VEC) in Virginia Beach.
Sailors will, instead, submit JST requests directly via mail, email or fax to JST Operations at Naval Education and Training Professional Development Technology Center (NETPDTC) in Pensacola, Florida.
According to Ernest D'Antonio, CPPD's Voluntary Education (VOLED) program director, the change will benefit Sailors in a few ways.
"Although Navy Voluntary Education still retains program management responsibilities for JST, under the new process Sailors will wait less time to get updates to their JSTs," said D'Antonio. "The VEC team will also have more time to assist Sailors enrolling in and pursuing off-duty education since the VEC will no longer be reviewing JST documents."
Under the outgoing system, the VEC received and reviewed documents such as official JST requests, special mailings, JST corrections and updates, DD-214 documents, and official college transcripts to add degrees. After the review was completed, the VEC forwarded eligible documents to JST operations to process.
Under the new system, Sailors and veterans send their documents directly to JST operations.
"This change will streamline the process and ensure JST corrections and additions are processed more quickly," said Susan Sutter, VEC supervisor. "It also means that a degree added to Sailors' JSTs will transmit faster to their other Navy records."
The VEC is continuing to process JST requests during the transition until Dec. 15. Any JST requests received at the VEC after that date will be forwarded to JST Operations for processing, Sutter said.
JST processing is already relatively user friendly, Sutter said.
"For example, Sailors can request an official JST be sent to their education institution in just a few minutes. All they have to do is log on the JST website and submit an official transcript request.
"And to add non-academic certifications such as master training specialist and Homeland Security to a JST, they simply email, fax or mail a certified true copy of their certificate to JST operations," she said.
Although the VEC will still assist Sailors with questions about the JST process, Sailors may also contact JST Operations directly at the following:
NETPDTC
ATTN: JST Operations Center, N615
6490 Saufley Field Road
Pensacola, FL 32509
Website: https://jst.doded.mil
Email: jst@doded.mil
Fax: (850) 473-6013 or DSN 753-6013
For more information about the Center for Personal and Professional Development (CPPD), visit: https://www.netc.navy.mil/
For more news from the Center for Personal and Professional Development, visit www.navy.mil/local/voledpao/.
Find CPPD on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/
CPPD: Where Mind Meets Mission
By Susan D. Henson, Center for Personal and Professional Development Public Affairs
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (NNS) -- Sailors can expect their requests for Joint Services Transcript (JST) updates to take less time with a streamlined process that will begin Dec. 15.
The processing change removes the intermediate step of Sailors submitting JST requests to the Center for Personal and Professional Development's (CPPD) Virtual Education Center (VEC) in Virginia Beach.
Sailors will, instead, submit JST requests directly via mail, email or fax to JST Operations at Naval Education and Training Professional Development Technology Center (NETPDTC) in Pensacola, Florida.
According to Ernest D'Antonio, CPPD's Voluntary Education (VOLED) program director, the change will benefit Sailors in a few ways.
"Although Navy Voluntary Education still retains program management responsibilities for JST, under the new process Sailors will wait less time to get updates to their JSTs," said D'Antonio. "The VEC team will also have more time to assist Sailors enrolling in and pursuing off-duty education since the VEC will no longer be reviewing JST documents."
Under the outgoing system, the VEC received and reviewed documents such as official JST requests, special mailings, JST corrections and updates, DD-214 documents, and official college transcripts to add degrees. After the review was completed, the VEC forwarded eligible documents to JST operations to process.
Under the new system, Sailors and veterans send their documents directly to JST operations.
"This change will streamline the process and ensure JST corrections and additions are processed more quickly," said Susan Sutter, VEC supervisor. "It also means that a degree added to Sailors' JSTs will transmit faster to their other Navy records."
The VEC is continuing to process JST requests during the transition until Dec. 15. Any JST requests received at the VEC after that date will be forwarded to JST Operations for processing, Sutter said.
JST processing is already relatively user friendly, Sutter said.
"For example, Sailors can request an official JST be sent to their education institution in just a few minutes. All they have to do is log on the JST website and submit an official transcript request.
"And to add non-academic certifications such as master training specialist and Homeland Security to a JST, they simply email, fax or mail a certified true copy of their certificate to JST operations," she said.
Although the VEC will still assist Sailors with questions about the JST process, Sailors may also contact JST Operations directly at the following:
NETPDTC
ATTN: JST Operations Center, N615
6490 Saufley Field Road
Pensacola, FL 32509
Website: https://jst.doded.mil
Email: jst@doded.mil
Fax: (850) 473-6013 or DSN 753-6013
For more information about the Center for Personal and Professional Development (CPPD), visit: https://www.netc.navy.mil/
For more news from the Center for Personal and Professional Development, visit www.navy.mil/local/voledpao/.
Find CPPD on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/
CPPD: Where Mind Meets Mission
Changes to Senior Enlisted AcademyFrom Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The Navy Senior Enlisted Academy (SEA) is expanding its delivery format to afford every senior chief petty officer the opportunity to attend the SEA prior to selection to master chief petty officer.
This change aligns with the Chief of Naval Operations' vision set forth in the Navy Leader Development Strategy and the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy's focus on developing leaders.
Starting in Fiscal Year 2017, all newly selected senior chief petty officers will be required to complete the SEA in Newport, Rhode Island, or attend either the Air Force Senior Enlisted Academy, Marine Corps Senior Enlisted Academy, Coast Guard Senior Enlisted Academy or Joint Special Operations Forces Senior Enlisted Academy, in order to be eligible for advancement to master chief petty officer.
Currently, the SEA resident course is six weeks. To meet the increased resident demand without compromising content, the SEA will modify its delivery format to nine weeks of distance learning online, prior to three weeks of resident education in Newport. By October 2015, all active duty personnel attending the SEA will be required to complete newer, longer requirement, followed by the three-week residence.
During the nine weeks of distance learning, each senior chief should expect to spend approximately three to five hours per week on assignments. Reducing the resident portion to three weeks allows the SEA to increase the number of classes per year without increasing the SEA's footprint requirements for base infrastructure. The shorter course also reduces the Sailor's time away from home and parent command, while not compromising educational content.
The present SEA blended course format, six weeks of distance learning followed by two weeks of rigorous in resident education, will continue to be the primary method to attend the SEA for Reservists.
The enrollment requirements remain the same.
Those Sailors who have already earned the rank of senior chief or are selected prior to the FY17 board will be grandfathered under the old policy and will not be required to attend the SEA. The course still remains a requirement for those who have been selected to become a command senior chief, command master chief or chief of the boat. Additionally, senior chiefs who are selected from the FY17 selection board will have to attend the SEA in order to be eligible for master chief.
Limited funding will be available during a permanent-change-of-station transfer. The vast majority of senior chiefs will attend the SEA on temporary-assigned duty orders. The primary funding for the program will come from the Naval War College.
As a prerequisite to attending the SEA, students must have completed the required 70 hours of online Primary Professional Military Education via Navy Knowledge Online.
It is mandatory that this work be completed prior to arrival at the SEA. The DoD Cyber Awareness Challenge and the Personally Identifiable Information training modules are also mandatory for all users of DoD information systems as required by the Federal Information Security Management Act. All students must provide a printed certificate of completion upon check-in at the SEA.
Students must also be within body composition assessment standards upon arrival. Any student arriving to the SEA out of standards will not be enrolled and required to wait 12 months prior to re-enrollment in the course. Any student who fails the course due to academic performance will also have to wait 12 months to re-enroll.
In general, waivers will not be approved. However, exceptions may be made on a case-by-case basis to deal with any extenuating circumstances.
Additional information can be found in NAVADMIN 266/14.
For more news from Chief of Naval Personnel, visitwww.navy.mil/local/cnp/.
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The Navy Senior Enlisted Academy (SEA) is expanding its delivery format to afford every senior chief petty officer the opportunity to attend the SEA prior to selection to master chief petty officer.
This change aligns with the Chief of Naval Operations' vision set forth in the Navy Leader Development Strategy and the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy's focus on developing leaders.
Starting in Fiscal Year 2017, all newly selected senior chief petty officers will be required to complete the SEA in Newport, Rhode Island, or attend either the Air Force Senior Enlisted Academy, Marine Corps Senior Enlisted Academy, Coast Guard Senior Enlisted Academy or Joint Special Operations Forces Senior Enlisted Academy, in order to be eligible for advancement to master chief petty officer.
Currently, the SEA resident course is six weeks. To meet the increased resident demand without compromising content, the SEA will modify its delivery format to nine weeks of distance learning online, prior to three weeks of resident education in Newport. By October 2015, all active duty personnel attending the SEA will be required to complete newer, longer requirement, followed by the three-week residence.
During the nine weeks of distance learning, each senior chief should expect to spend approximately three to five hours per week on assignments. Reducing the resident portion to three weeks allows the SEA to increase the number of classes per year without increasing the SEA's footprint requirements for base infrastructure. The shorter course also reduces the Sailor's time away from home and parent command, while not compromising educational content.
The present SEA blended course format, six weeks of distance learning followed by two weeks of rigorous in resident education, will continue to be the primary method to attend the SEA for Reservists.
The enrollment requirements remain the same.
Those Sailors who have already earned the rank of senior chief or are selected prior to the FY17 board will be grandfathered under the old policy and will not be required to attend the SEA. The course still remains a requirement for those who have been selected to become a command senior chief, command master chief or chief of the boat. Additionally, senior chiefs who are selected from the FY17 selection board will have to attend the SEA in order to be eligible for master chief.
Limited funding will be available during a permanent-change-of-station transfer. The vast majority of senior chiefs will attend the SEA on temporary-assigned duty orders. The primary funding for the program will come from the Naval War College.
As a prerequisite to attending the SEA, students must have completed the required 70 hours of online Primary Professional Military Education via Navy Knowledge Online.
It is mandatory that this work be completed prior to arrival at the SEA. The DoD Cyber Awareness Challenge and the Personally Identifiable Information training modules are also mandatory for all users of DoD information systems as required by the Federal Information Security Management Act. All students must provide a printed certificate of completion upon check-in at the SEA.
Students must also be within body composition assessment standards upon arrival. Any student arriving to the SEA out of standards will not be enrolled and required to wait 12 months prior to re-enrollment in the course. Any student who fails the course due to academic performance will also have to wait 12 months to re-enroll.
In general, waivers will not be approved. However, exceptions may be made on a case-by-case basis to deal with any extenuating circumstances.
Additional information can be found in NAVADMIN 266/14.
For more news from Chief of Naval Personnel, visitwww.navy.mil/local/cnp/.
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