DCoE Staff Gives Thanks During the Holidays

By Robyn Mincher, DCoE Strategic Communications

Our staff at Defense Centers of Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury (DCoE) celebrated Thanksgiving in many ways. Some traveled out of town to be with friends and family, some stayed local to cook for those who couldn’t be with family, and a few enjoyed some much-deserved peace and solitude.

No matter where or how we spent the holiday, all of us are definitely thankful for one major thing: the chance to share with you – our readers! This month we introduced new resources for prevention, resilience and treatment for traumatic brain injury (TBI) and psychological health concerns.

We talked about new gizmos and gadgets from National Center for Telehealth and Technology (T2), like the PE Coach mobile app. Although it isn’t released to the public yet, it will help providers treat psychological health concerns of service members through prolonged exposure and help users self-monitor their behavior. We also blogged about the new T2 Technology Enhancement Center, a state-of-the-art usability lab that tests technology products to make sure they’re easy for service members to use.

Military children received a big “thank you!” (and a few high fives from their favorite characters from Sesame Street and The Electric Company) at the Sesame Workshop Military Family Event Nov. 5. New resources that encourage families to connect and communicate with each other, and have fun, were unveiled at the event. For an overview of the new website Military Families Near and Far and Feel Electric! mobile app, we provided 10 ways families can create, communicate and stay connected. Like our page on Facebook to check out our picture album of the event.

We appreciate the sacrifices our military families make, especially during holidays apart from loved ones. Our November webinar discussed how to cope with stress and stay connected during the holidays. Dr. Vladimir Nacev, DCoE, Resilience and Prevention directorate, was joined by Mary Campise, Defense Department, Office of Military Community and Family Policy, and Maggie MacFarland Phillips, Fort Hood Health Promotion. They discussed ways to mitigate emotional stress during the holidays and how families can connect despite being apart.

On Veterans Day, we thanked those who served our nation in a blog post by Navy Capt. Paul S. Hammer, DCoE director. In the post, he shared his thoughts on what the holiday means:

“When I think of Veterans Day, I think of service—service to country, service to my fellow sailors and Marines, as well as my colleagues throughout the military.”

Veterans Day was a topic in a DoDLive bloggers roundtable on Nov. 8, where Real Warriors Campaign Army veteran Maj. Ed Pulido was joined by Dr. Mark Bates, DCoE, Resilience and Prevention directorate director, and Army Maj. Todd Yosick, Resilience and Prevention directorate deputy director, to share information and resources available for those experiencing psychological and physical wounds of war.

While another Thanksgiving has passed and Christmas is right around the corner, DCoE continues to appreciate our readers – and will continue supporting service members, veterans, families and providers during this holiday season.

Now it’s your turn - what are you thankful for?

U.S. Groton SUBVETS Provide Thanksgiving Meals to Sailors, Guardians in Blue

By Lt. Cmdr. Jennifer Cragg, Commander, Submarine Group 2 Public Affairs

GROTON, Conn. (NNS) -- U.S. Groton Submarine Veterans provided nearly 900 meals on wheels complete with turkey, stuffing and all of the associated fixings to Sailors and local police standing the watch, Nov. 24.

For the past four months local military leaders, members of U.S. Groton SUBVETS and community leaders have met to plan this annual Thanksgiving meal.

"This is a community-wide effort that is coordinated by SUBVETS Groton Base. It involves a tremendous amount of donations, and support from our membership, active-duty Sailors, local merchants, business and people in the community to plan, coordinate, and execute this program," said John Carcioppolo, Groton SUBVETS base commander.

Carcioppolo said with help from the Naval Submarine Base New London galley and students from Naval Submarine School the SUBVETS mashed about 500 pounds of potatoes and squash; prepared enough stuffing for 900 people, and prepared at least 150 turkeys to feed everyone.

"The overall support from everyone has been outstanding. The bottom line is that it's about taking care of policemen, Sailors, their families and submarine veterans who need our help to make Thanksgiving a meaningful family holiday. The Sailors are embraced by the SUBVETS family and I ensure each Sailor who comes through the doors that they will leave well fed, and with no less than six grandmothers," Carcioppolo said.

SUBVETS members and their volunteers delivered meals on wheels to the following police and fire departments in the area this Thanksgiving: Groton, Groton Long Point, Groton City, Ledyard, Montville, Troop E, Waterford, East Lyme, Old Lyme and Electric Boat Fire Department. The volunteers also delivered meals to the following boats and other Naval Submarine Base New London commands: USS Providence (SSN 719); USS Pittsburgh (SSN 720), Pre-Commissioning Unit (PCU) Mississippi (SSN 782), NSSC Watch Team; Port Operations; SUBASE Security; and SUBASE BCT 2.

Machinist's Mate 1st Class (SS/SW) James Pearson, of Owensboro, Ky., serves as the volunteer coordinator for the Virginia-class submarine PCU Mississippi. Pearson said this year marks the second year for the crew members to assist with the annual Thanksgiving dinner.

"As the PCU Mississippi coordinator for this event, it's my responsibility to ensure that all active-duty military and Electric Boat employees on watch receive a Thanksgiving meal," said Pearson.

In addition to organizing meals, he also helped prepare the traditional meal at the SUBVETS clubhouse.

Holiday Giving: Navy Lieutenant Commander Donates Marrow, Saves Life

By U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Jared Marquis, Defense Information School Public Affairs

FT. MEADE, Md (NNS) -- A Sailor assigned to the Defense Information School is home recovering after a surgical procedure on Nov. 21 in which he donated live-saving bone marrow to a person he does not know.

During the holidays, people all over the country spend time with family, eating, watching football and enjoying the opportunity to reflect and give back. John T. Schofield is doing much the same thing, save one difference. Three days before Thanksgiving, Schofield was in a hospital undergoing a procedure to extract his bone marrow to save someone else's life.

That someone is a seriously ill 57-year old woman who may die without Schofield's donation.

While the procedure itself is usually no more than two hours, the path to the hospital bed started for the 15-year veteran and Navy lieutenant commander more than two years ago.

In July 2009, Schofield was stationed aboard the Navy's newest aircraft carrier, USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77). Schofield was asked by the ship's senior medical officer to market a marrow-donor registration drive for the C.W. Bill Young Department of Defense Marrow Donor Program.

The goal was to add to the more than 622,000 people already in the system. An already regular donor of blood and platelets, Schofield was not only willing to help publicize the event, he also registered. Nearly three years and two moves later, the instructor and Navy Element Commander at the Defense Information School here got the call he never expected.

"They called me early last month and told me I had been identified as a potential match for someone in need of a bone-marrow donation," he said.

Until that call, Schofield said, he had completely forgotten he had registered in the system. But that did not change his willingness to give.

"From the second I received that call 2 1/2 months ago until this very moment, it has been hard for me to think of anything else," said the Salt Lake City native.

Schofield said donating a part of himself to someone for a lifesaving procedure is one of the most meaningful things he has done. He knew from the moment he got that phone call he wanted to donate. His only fear was not being able to. This fear followed him throughout the next couple of phases of the process.

Being matched in the database does not guarantee a donor's marrow will work, said Schofield. It takes several more tests before the donor is identified as both physically and medically capable of donating.

Just getting a preliminary match to a non-relative is a one in a million chance, said Schofield. It was still a one-in-a-hundred chance he would actually be able to donate.

But, after all the follow-up tests, Schofield got the news he hoped for: The donation was a go.

Once the surgery was on, there was nothing to do but wait, something he didn't have to do much of. From the time he got the first phone call to the time he went into the operating room, a little over a month had passed. That didn't give Schofield much time to worry, which he said he didn't do a lot of. His wife and kids were a different story.

His wife, Susan Schofield, who is also on the registry, was concerned at first because she wasn't really sure what was involved, she said. But, her husband put her at ease with his assurances that the surgery was not dangerous and he would be fine.

His wife's fears calmed, it was time to focus on the children.

Schofield and his wife have three boys. At ages 3, 5 and 7, they were not particularly aware of what was taking place, said Schofield.

"They knew daddy was going to the hospital, and would be home in a couple of days," said Susan.

"The only question they really had was 'Will it hurt?'" said Schofield. "Once I assured them it wouldn't, they were fine."

In addition to easing their concerns, Schofield used the opportunity to teach his kids it is important to help out those in need.

"I feel that this transplant sets a good example for my kids in that I want them to see at a very early age that kindness and service are very good things," he said. "It doesn't take a lot of work. Sometimes just being available and being willing is sometimes all it takes to save someone's life."

That lesson, and motivating people to do their part, is why Schofield volunteered for the registry.

Now that he is out of the hospital, he said he was humbled by all the appreciation he received from the doctors and nurses following the surgery. But as much as he appreciated it, it was not necessary.

This 57-year old patient needed his marrow for a chance at life. There never really was a choice for him, he said.

"The act of being a donor doesn't seem to me that it's something you should be thanked for," he said. "It is something you should do."

Post-surgery, Schofield's goal is to raise awareness for the marrow-donor program.

"The process is so simple," he said. "It took mere minutes to register. There is nothing about this that was difficult."

As far as the pain, Schofield, who spent one night in the hospital, said it was minimal.

"At its worst, the pain was no more than what I would have after a day spent raking leaves," said Schofield. The average recovery time is approximately two weeks, but he said he is able to do pretty much everything he could do before the surgery.

He added that he hopes more people come forward to volunteer their marrow. The experience has impacted him profoundly, he said.

"When you break it down, you are availing yourself to someone for a lifesaving procedure," Schofield said. "I really don't think I'll have that opportunity to do something that special again."

For her part, Susan said the experience has motivated her to be a donor. She was already on the registry, but after experiencing the process through her husband, she hopes to get the same call. Her aunt was a marrow donor recipient, but they were never able to find a complete match. She hopes to be that complete match for someone else, Susan said.

Now, as he continues to recover, and follow through with his Thanksgiving plans to participate in a 5K run/walk, cook and deliver a turkey to junior service members and enjoy time with family, Schofield has something else to be thankful for: that his marrow is giving someone else the opportunity to do the same.

To find more information on the C.W. Bill Young Department of Defense Marrow Donor Program, or to request a registry recruiting trip, visit DoDmarrow.org.

Give Thanks; Eat Healthy

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (AW) LaTunya Howard, Navy Personnel Command Public Affairs Office

MILLINGTON, Tenn. (NNS) -- Healthy holiday eating is possible said a Navy nutrition expert, Nov. 21.

"The holiday season is quickly upon us and now is a great time to map out your strategy," said Lt. Cmdr. Jennifer Wallinger, nutrition officer, Navy Physical Readiness Program. "We all have traditions, but planning ahead for what we know is coming can do a lot for our nutrition, not to mention our waist line, blood sugar, cholesterol and blood pressure."

The holiday season is a time for celebration which traditionally includes enjoying good food with family and friends, Wallinger said.

"The problem comes in when the eating frenzy stretches from now into the New Year, where most annual weight is gained," she added. "Although this weight gain tends to be small, most people do not take it off and it continues to accumulate through the years. The holidays may not be the best time for weight loss, but it is a good time to practice damage control."

Wallinger offers tips for enjoying the holidays without over-indulging:

- Enjoy your meals and favorite foods, just try to eat less, make half your plate fruit and vegetables.

- Consider lightening some traditional recipes if you are cooking at home.
- Be selective and eat only the treats you really enjoy.
- Keep in mind a large portion of extra calories may come from beverages.

"The Navy's Nutrition Resource Guide is an excellent tool to review prior to beginning the festivities," said Wallinger. "The guide was developed to increase awareness of available Navy programs and resources to assist in improving performance and body composition, an essential component of physical fitness."

The nutrition guide is part of the Navy's Physical Readiness Program Operating Guide, the official supplement to OPNAVINST 6110.1J. The operating guide provides members with nutrition and fitness information that promotes a healthier lifestyle. It also provides the command fitness leader (CFL) with the tools to effectively manage his or her command physical readiness program.

The operating guide includes a trilogy of resources; The Nutrition Resource Guide, the "How To" Guide, and the Command/Unit Physical Training and Fitness Enhancement Program.

"Increasing your awareness when tempting treats are bountiful can help decrease over-indulgences and actually make the holidays more enjoyable," said Wallinger. "If excessive calories, sugar and salt are not what you are asking for this holiday season, consider creative solutions, be realistic and, above all, have fun."

To learn more about the Navy's Physical Readiness Program, nutrition and fitness, visit the Navy Personnel Website at NPC.navy.mil or visit Health.gov/DietaryGuidelines.

George Washington Celebrates Thanksgiving

By USS George Washington Public Affairs

YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) -- Two days after returning to their forward operating port of Yokosuka, Japan, the crew of USS George Washington (CVN 73) took time to celebrate Thanksgiving, Nov. 24, giving thanks for the past year even though many are far away from their families overseas.

"This is my first Thanksgiving away from home, so I'm getting my mind ready to not to be with my family," said Airman Spencer Neil, from Atlanta. "But, I'm thankful for everything this year because all these things I have this year weren't here last year, so I'm joyous and thankful."

Last year's operational commitments required George Washington to return to sea, having the crew enjoying a Thanksgiving feast underway without their families. This year brought a welcomed change with those not on duty able to spend the holidays with family or friends. But, those working aboard the ship were not forgotten as Sailors working in the ship's galleys spent weeks planning a traditional Thanksgiving with all the tastes of a home-cooked meal including, turkey, mashed potatoes, green beans, and pumpkin pie.

"I'd rather work on Thanksgiving, to be around the atmosphere, around the people. For right now, and the next few years while I'm serving out my contract, this is my family," added Neil, who works as a food service attendant in the aft galley.

Culinary Specialists and Food Service Attendants working in the ship's galley, chief's mess, and wardroom spent nearly eight hours cooking, serving and cleaning up after the Thanksgiving meal. More than 600 pounds of turkey, 500 pounds of prime rib and nearly 400 pounds of ham were prepared to feed the nearly 1,500 personnel and their families who were aboard the carrier for the meal.

"When I walk by and I see people eating, it makes me happy because they're actually enjoying the meal," said Culinary Specialist Seaman Brooke Barnes of Georgetown, Texas. "Everyone put their little hearts and souls into the meal."

Senior enlisted members of the crew directed chow lines on both sides of the galley, ensuring Sailors didn't have to wait long to enjoy their meal.

"The food was fantastic, I was surprised how good it was," said Interior Communications Specialist 3rd Class Sean Gehrold from Ramtown, N.J. "It really made me feel a lot better about being on duty."

George Washington returned to her forward operating port of Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka November 22 after a nine-week patrol as the Navy's only full-time forward-deployed aircraft carrier, ensuring security and stability across the western Pacific Ocean.

First Lady: Program Makes it Easy to Send Troops Holiday Thanks

By Cheryl Pellerin
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 24, 2011 – On this Thanksgiving holiday, Americans can take advantage of a new program that makes it easy to send online messages of support to troops and veterans everywhere, First Lady Michelle Obama said today.

JoiningForces.gov and the United Service Organizations, or USO, have partnered to create a program called Thanks From Everywhere, she said in a statement issued from the White House.

“Every Thanksgiving, Barack sits down to call some of our troops and thank them for their service,” she said.

“When he tells me about these conversations, it always reminds me of how blessed we are to live in a country where men and women will stand up to protect our freedoms and preserve our way of life,” she said. “And whenever I've had the chance to meet with these heroes and their families, I've always walked away inspired by their courage and in awe of their strength.”

As part of the program, notes will be added to a map with messages from people all over the country, showing the troops and their families how much the nation appreciates their service and sacrifice.

“If we all do our part, we'll help to build a wave of support to honor our veterans and their families and ensure they get the recognition they deserve this holiday season,” the first lady said.

“At a time when we are sitting down to share the blessings we've received this past year, please take a moment to be a part of this effort to thank America's heroes and their families,” she said.

Service Members Receive Free Thanksgiving Meals at Navy Region Southwest Headquarters

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Stephen M. Votaw, Navy Public Affairs Support Element West

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Servicemembers assigned to Commander, Navy Region Southwest (CNRSW) handed out complementary Thanksgiving meals to their fellow Sailors at the command's headquarters, Nov. 22.

The boxes of food were donated to CNRSW by Albertsons' Foods and handed out to service members who work at the command.

"We signed up with Operation Homefront who along with Albertsons' is providing a Thanksgiving box giveaway," said Master-at-Arms 2nd Class Janet Rodgerson, the event coordinator. "The boxes contained turkeys along with all the fixings for a family of eight."

Sailors handed out a total of 52 boxes that also contained mashed potatoes, a variety of side dishes, a pumpkin pie and sweet rolls.

"These kinds of events are important because it shows we care," said Rodgerson. "It helps to take away some of the stress from our Sailors for the holidays, and allows them to spend more time with their families and less worrying about how to pay for them."

Operation Homefront along with Albertsons' is providing more than 500 Thanksgiving meals to service members around the San Diego area this holiday season.

"It was a really wonderful way to help give back to the Sailors I work with," said Rodgerson. "Being able to see the smiles on people's faces when they pick up their boxes makes all of our hard work worthwhile."

Thanksgiving message from the Adjutant General of Wisconsin

Thursday is Thanksgiving, a uniquely American holiday where we pause and count our blessings.

For most of us, Thanksgiving is a time for families to gather together and share a sumptuous meal and engage in family traditions such as football, hunting or Black Friday shopping. It is no coincidence that more people travel on the Thanksgiving weekend than any other because we want to celebrate with our families.

November is also Military Family Month, when we take time to honor, recognize and remember the service, sacrifice and support family members provide each and every day. Even as military operations draw down overseas, we must not forget that we still have on-going operations in Afghanistan, Kosovo and around the world — in fact, more than 300 Wisconsin Guardsmen are currently deployed. Those families will have at least one fewer place setting on Thanksgiving because their service member is serving overseas.

We greatly appreciate the continued support of families who support their loved one while he or she serves our nation. The commitment and support of our families are the very foundation that our Soldiers and Airmen use to sustain them during contingency operations.

That support is not limited to deployments. National Guard families make room in their schedule for weekend drills and plan around annual trainings that may occur on birthdays, anniversaries or other special events. They accept the intrusion into personal lives that Guard service requires — calls at home from subordinates or superiors, paperwork or planning done after supper or on weekends, even regular physical training to keep in shape for military service. It's not easy for those families, but it is deeply appreciated.

I am thankful for those men and women who serve in the Wisconsin National Guard. I am also thankful for those family members who make it possible for our Guard members to serve. You cannot have one without the other.

Thank you for being part of the National Guard family and for your continued support. May you all have a safe, happy and blessed Thanksgiving.

Sincerely,

Donald P. Dunbar

Major General
Wisconsin National Guard
The Adjutant General

Thanksgiving Message

As Delivered by Secretary of Defense Leon E. Panetta

For the past 10 Thanksgivings, our nation has been at war.  For 10 Thanksgivings, our troops have been deployed to the battle zones and around the world, defending our freedom and putting their lives on the line.

We are thankful for your service and for your steadfast commitment to keeping all of us safe.  Our thoughts and prayers will also be with your families, whose love, support and sacrifice are essential to your success.

I know that this can be a difficult time for service members and their loved ones who must spend it apart from each other.  To those deployed away from home, and to their families:  You are making a real difference every day and keeping our country strong and safe.

As all Americans pause to take stock of our blessings of freedom and liberty, I want you to know that we can only do so because of your willingness to bear the burden and hardship of providing for our security.

Throughout our history, America has faced serious challenges – economic, social, political and military crises.  This is one of those periods.  And yet, the spirit of the American people remains our greatest strength to overcome whatever crisis we confront.  That great spirit is reflected in you - our men and women in uniform.  Hopefully, your example of courage and bravery can inspire others to do the right thing.

On this Thanksgiving, as our nation remains at war, Sylvia and I join all of you in one simple prayer: Peace on Earth, and goodwill to all.  To all our service members and their families: Have a safe, healthy and Happy Thanksgiving!

Logistics Agency Provides Thanksgiving Meals

By Nick Sistrun
Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support

PHILADELPHIA, Nov. 21, 2011 – Service members deployed to Afghanistan and Iraq, as well as U.S. State Department employees serving there, will be able to savor the familiar taste of home on Thanksgiving Day thanks to the efforts of Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support workers here.

More than 270 dining facilities have received their food deliveries and are postured to serve the special Thanksgiving holiday fare.

Deliveries included 168,000 pounds of turkey, 37,800 pounds of stuffing, 93,876 pounds of beef, 43,560 pounds of sweet potatoes, 24,000 pounds of shrimp, 34,560 pies and 25,800 pounds of cranberry sauce, along with other holiday treats.

“America’s military is a special group of heroic men and women who continually make sacrifices for our freedom,” said Navy Rear Adm. David Baucom, DLA Troop Support commander. “It is our duty and covenant to show our gratitude by providing them the very best our country has to offer for the holidays.”

As the U.S. military mission winds down in Iraq, the State Department has been increasing its personnel there and using DOD’s food supply chain infrastructure. As a part of the arrangement, State Department employees and service members eat together in the same dining facilities.

DLA Troop Support has a team of employees dedicated to ensuring that deployed service members can experience a memorable holiday meal each Thanksgiving.

As a DOD combat support agency, DLA provides the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, other federal agencies, and joint and allied forces with a variety of logistics, acquisition and technical services. The agency sources and provides nearly 100 percent of the consumable items America’s military forces need to operate, from food, fuel and energy, to uniforms, medical supplies, and construction and barrier equipment. DLA also supplies more than 80 percent of the military’s spare parts.

With headquarters at Fort Belvoir, Va., DLA has about 27,000 employees worldwide and supports more than 2,178 weapon systems.

Imperial Beach Supports Sailors, Families with Thanksgiving Baskets

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Amanda Huntoon, Navy Region Southwest Public Affairs

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Naval Base Coronado Sailors were selected to participate in the ninth annual Thanksgiving basket giveaway aboard the base, Nov. 17.

Each individual command at Naval Base Coronado nominated a few Sailors who needed additional support during the holidays. Three hundred Sailors and their families received baskets with everything needed for a complete Thanksgiving Day meal.

"Each year I am totally amazed at the amount of compassion and care that the vendors show towards the military," said Naval Base Coronado Command Master Chief Kenneth Shivers. "The support is astonishing. I am amazed at the amount of support in San Diego around this time of year.

"The amount of people, both military and non-military, who call my office offering support for the Sailors, from Adopt-a-Family to people opening their homes up to the Sailors who don't have a place to go during the holidays, I find it very remarkable," said Shivers.

The baskets included an 18-20 pound turkey, celery, stuffing, a loaf of bread, cranberry sauce, sugar cookie mix, gravy mix, broth, potatoes, and a roasting pan.

"We started this in 2002, with probably about $50 and three vendors, and through the years we continue to get more and more participation from the vendors, and we receive more funds, which allow us to help more Sailors," said Freddie Espiritu, Imperial Beach Commissary store director. "The Store's main intention is to be the store for military members and families, and we want to show our appreciation and our support for the active duty members of this base by providing the Sailors with a holiday meal."

According to Espiritu, this year the Imperial Beach Commissary brought in a total of $10,000 for their Thanksgiving basket collection. This money came from donations made from their vendors.

"It is really great for them to do this for military families, especially my family, because this year we have had a really hard time," said Personnel Specialist 2nd Class Raymundo Aguilar, assigned to the "Firehawks" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 85. "My father-in-law passed away, and this thanksgiving basket is going to provide for my family. I have three kids and my spouse and with the economy being hard, this is really helpful."

The Sailors also participated in a drawing where they received additional gifts which included hams, televisions, toys, and gift bags.

"It is really wonderful to support what these women and gentleman do for our country," said Peter LaMontia, a vendor with WEBCO General Partnership. "It's amazing. You see their faces, and you really get a sense of your heart going out to them. I am so blessed to be a part of this."

Lincoln Sailors Build New Homes during Navy Week LA

By Chief Mass Communication Specialist Brian Brannon, USS Abraham Lincoln Public Affairs

LAWNDALE, Calif. (NNS) -- Wielding hammers, saws, trowels, and drills, 25 Sailors from the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) and the mine countermeasures ship USS Champion (MCM 4) volunteered with Habitat for Humanity to make two families' dreams of living in safe, affordable housing come true, July 26.

Erin Hale, president and CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Greater L.A., thanked the Sailors for their skill and professionalism in working alongside her team.

"We're very excited that the Navy's out here because we know that not only have these Sailors given tremendous service to our nation, they've also done a lot of service and humanitarian aid while they're out at sea. The fact that while they're here in Los Angeles at the port, that they're spending time with Habitat for Humanity means so, so much to us," she said.

Candy Royce is scheduled to move into one of the homes around Thanksgiving, along with her mother and three adopted children. She was honored to have Navy volunteers help build her new home and encouraged Sailors to leave messages on the unfinished walls.

Although the notes will eventually be covered with drywall, Royce is collecting photographs of the faces and writings of everyone who has worked on her home.

"Almost everyone writes messages on the walls," she said. "They have some funny things that they say and some very sincere things. And I can say this house was built with love."

With instruction from regular Habitat for Humanity volunteers called "Rusty Nails," Sailors framed porches, built stairs, added trusses, put stucco on walls, and performed electrical work.

Lincoln Aviation Maintenance Administrationman 2nd Class Rockie Johnson enjoyed the chance to make a difference in the community.

"We're helping good people out here; a good family," he said. "I wasn't too fortunate before coming in, and to give to someone else that's not, it's just [satisfying]."

Navy Week is an opportunity for the officers and crew of the visiting ships to help the Navy showcase the quality of its personnel to local citizens. Lincoln's participation in L.A. Navy Week will demonstrate to area leaders and the general public that the Navy remains an effective and vital tool of national defense and a viable career opportunity for young men and women.

The Navy conducts approximately 20 Navy Weeks each year, reaching out to communities across the country to showcase for Americans the investments they have made toward their national defense.

Participating in L.A. Navy Week 2011 are Lincoln, Champion, guided-missile cruiser USS Princeton (CG 59), guided-missile destroyer USS Chafee (DDG 90), Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 2, and personnel from Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 9, Maritime Expeditionary Security Group (MESG) 31, Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron (MSRON) 3 and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit 1.

The Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group is in Los Angeles between at-sea training and certification periods ahead of a deployment scheduled for the end of the year.

Chairman’s Corner: Happy Thanksgiving

By Navy Adm. Mike Mullen

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff

WASHINGTON, Nov. 24, 2010 – As we reflect on all that we have to be thankful for during this upcoming holiday weekend, I want to express my personal thanks to our armed forces and their families. Their profound commitment -– and sacrifice -– continues to inspire.

It is also fitting that November is Military Family Appreciation Month. Quite simply, without our families, our military would not be capable of all they do during this extraordinary time in our Nation’s history. To all of our family members, we thank you for your service. You make a difference every day, and we are strengthened by your support, your resilience, and your love of your military serviceman or woman.

Sadly, there are families for whom the Thanksgiving table will never be made whole again. For those families whose loved ones have made the ultimate sacrifice, we are mindful of your loss and our solemn obligation to stand by you. We also remember that other families have seen their warriors return with wounds, both visible and invisible. Theirs will also be a particularly poignant holiday and I ask every American to keep them –- and our wounded warriors –- in your thoughts and prayers.

Despite these challenges, we must never lose sight of the fact that Thanksgiving celebrates the blessings our Nation harvests through the hardships we endure together. From colonists seeking a better life in the New World to today’s efforts to secure a better future for our children and grandchildren, Americans have always weathered the tough times with determination and a conviction that brighter days remain ahead.

As we gather to give thanks as a Nation, the Joint Chiefs and I offer our deepest appreciation and gratitude to our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, Coastguardsmen and our incredible military families. No matter where you are or how you serve, may you have a safe and happy Thanksgiving!

A Salute to Military Chefs

Written by: Christopher Lagan

Post written by Petty Officer 3rd Class Victoria Bonk

As America prepares for Thanksgiving – a holiday that has become synonymous with good food – and lots of it, we thought it a fitting time to salute the men and women who prepare food for tens of thousands of Coast Guard men and women every day. Today, we share our thanks for the Coast Guard’s Food Service Specialists.

One of the most forgot-about-jobs in the Coast Guard is the Food Service Specialist. They are the men and women who keep their fellow shipmates well fed to have the energy to complete the many missions of the Coast Guard. A lot of times, they are up well before and go to bed well after most of the crew, serving up to four or more meals a day.

Last week, the USO of Metropolitan Washington held its annual dinner to salute military chefs. All services were represented. Representing the Coast Guard was Petty Officer 1st Class Timothy Sullivan, a food service specialist and enlisted aide to the Vice Commandant of the Coast Guard, Vice Adm. Sally Brice-O’Hara. He joined chefs from all the services to prepare a six-course meal demonstrating their talents and hard work.

“I was excited about cooking for this event. It was my largest plated meal that I have done, 180 plates,” said Sullivan. “It was great to be able to meet and work with other chefs.”

Sullivan has been a food service specialist for nine years and an enlisted aide for one year. His passion for cooking and drive to better his skills led him to apply for the enlisted aide position. When he received orders to become an enlisted aide, it meant he had to also receive more culinary training.

“I felt that I had reached my potential as a shipboard cook and decided it was time for a new challenge and time to take myself out of my comfort zone,” said Sullivan. “I like a challenge and I never want to stop learning.”

Also during the USO dinner, another member of the Coast Guard was recognized for being the Coast Guard Enlisted Aide of the year, Petty Officer 1st Class Stephen Bishop, a food service specialist and enlisted aide to the Coast Guard Commandant, Adm. Bob Papp.

“I’m so honored to have been chosen to be the Coast Guard enlisted aide of the year,” said Bishop.

Bishop has been a food service specialist for nine years and an enlisted aide for three years. He became an aide because of the advice and recommendation from Master Chief Petty Officer Charles Bowen (ret.), the 10th Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard, who thought he would be good at the job. He enjoys being an aide because of the many opportunities to be creative and work with the senior leadership of the Coast Guard.

“Being an aide has given me the chance to be creative with my cooking since I’m cooking for smaller amount of people,” said Bishop.

The USO took a night to recognize how important cooks are to the operations of the military services and showcase their talents. The Coast Guard has many support jobs that help keep the service going; food service specialist is only one of them. However, without cooks, the Coast Guard wouldn’t be able to run the same.

Bush Asks Americans to Remember Troops During Thanksgiving

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

Nov. 25, 2007 - President Bush spoke of the history of Thanksgiving during his weekly radio address yesterday, and called for Americans to remember – and be thankful for – thousands of American servicemembers literally on the front lines of freedom. The Thanksgiving holiday is a time of family and friends and when Americans give thanks for their freedoms, Bush said.

"Throughout our history, Americans have always taken time to give thanks for all those whose sacrifices protect and strengthen our nation," he said. "We continue that tradition today – and we give thanks for a new generation of patriots who are defending our liberty around the world."

The Thanksgiving tradition has assumed more importance during a time of war, the president said. The Continental Congress proclaimed a day of Thanksgiving every year during the Revolutionary War. President George Washington issued a proclamation calling for a day of "publick prayer and thanksgiving" in 1789.

"We remember Abraham Lincoln, who revived the Thanksgiving tradition in the midst of a terrible civil war," Bush said. Lincoln urged in his 1863 proclamation that Americans remember the fallen, as well as "widows, orphans, mourners or sufferers in the lamentable civil strife in which we are unavoidably engaged."

The Lincoln proclamation came too late in 1863 to make it a special holiday for Union soldiers, sailors and Marines. But in 1864, Americans rallied to the idea of providing a special feast for those battling against slavery.

The Union League Club of New York City called on Americans to donate money or food to be delivered to Union servicemembers as "tangible evidence that those for whom he is periling his life, remember him."

In three weeks, the club collected over $57,000 toward the purchase of 146,586 pounds of poultry. It also received donations of an additional 225,000 pounds of poultry, along with an enormous quantity of other meat, cakes, gingerbread, pickles, apples, vegetables, cheese and mince pies.

The soldiers often didn't have the appliances to cook the donated food items. According to Army Capt. George F. Noyes, the men of the Army of the Shenandoah broiled or stewed their turkeys. "But everyone seemed fully satisfied, and appreciated the significance of this sympathetic thank-offering from the loyal North," Noyes wrote. "One soldier said to me, 'It isn't the turkey, but the idea that we care for,' and he thus struck the keynote of the whole festival."

American fighting forces went on to observe Thanksgiving on the Marne in France during World War I, at the Anzio beachhead in Italy during World War II, north of Pyongyang during the Lkorean War and in the Ia Drang Valley during Vietnam.

Today that tradition continues with Americans who serve in places like Jallalabad, Afghanistan, in and around Baghdad, aboard ships in the Persian Gulf and still in Germany, Korea and Japan.

"We are grateful to all our men and women in uniform who are spending this holiday weekend far from their families," Bush said. "We keep them in our thoughts and prayers. And we especially remember those who have given their lives in our nation's defense.

The president spoke of the sacrifice of Navy Lt. Michael Murphy, who died defending his fellow Navy SEALs in June 2005. "Michael was conducting surveillance on a mountain ridge in Afghanistan, when his four-man SEAL team was surrounded by a much larger enemy force," Bush said. "Their only escape was down the side of the mountain. The SEALs launched a valiant counterattack while cascading from cliff to cliff. But as the enemy closed in, Michael recognized that the survival of his men depended on calling back to base for reinforcements.

"With complete disregard for his own life, Michael Murphy moved into a clearing where he could get a signal. As he made the call, Michael fell under heavy fire. Though severely wounded, he said 'thank you' before signing off, and returned to the fight."

Murphy's actions cost him his life and earned him the Medal of Honor.

"This weekend, we give thanks for the blessings of young Americans like Lieutenant Michael Murphy, who risk their own lives to keep us safe," Bush said.

The president called on Americans to remember the heroes among us – servicemembers, police, firefighters, volunteers and others who serve a cause larger than themselves.

"While we were enjoying our Thanksgiving turkeys, tens of thousands of these men and women were on the job – keeping their fellow citizens safe and bringing hope and compassion to our brothers and sisters in need," he said. "And their sacrifice reminds us that the true strength of our nation is the goodness and decency of our people."

Vice Chairman of Joint Chiefs Spends Thanksgiving in Iraq

By Air Force Tech. Sgt. Adam M. Stump
Special to American Forces Press Service

Nov. 25, 2007 - The vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and a traveling USO show visited four different locations in Iraq to see troops during Thanksgiving. Marine Corps Gen. James E. Cartwright started at Camp Liberty, then moved on to Al Asad Air Base, Camp Fallujah and Balad Air Base, bringing along actor Wilmer Valderrama, model Mayra Veronica and comedian Russell Peters.

Cartwright opened each of the three USO shows by saying he was from Washington and jokingly saying he was "here to help." He then delivered a clear message that coalition operations, troops' actions and hard work was making a difference and was not going unnoticed or unrecognized.

The general then introduced Valderrama, who served as the emcee of the show. Valderrama was followed by Veronica, who said troops in Iraq are fighting for a worthy cause. Peters rounded out the show by performing a 20-minute comedy act.

At Fallujah, one of the Marines who saw the show was thankful they came out for the holiday. "It was nice," said Marine Corps Cpl. John Bartholomeo. "It changed up the day-to-day routine."

Bartholomeo added he was pleased Cartwright had elected to make the visit, noting that hearing the message "we support you" is much more meaningful when delivered in person.

Another Marine called it a special treat to be visited by top-quality entertainers during the holiday. "Having an actor, model and comedian come out was awesome, especially on Thanksgiving," said Cpl. Ben McCann, a Boston native. "It's good to know there's some people as famous as they are who are levelheaded and want to come out and thank the troops personally."

Peters said choosing to come see the troops was an easy decision and worthwhile.
"The reason I do it is to see people get happy," Peters said. "To see people in this type of environment start to laugh again, smile and look at each other in a different way is very rewarding."

Valderrama, who played the character "Fez" on the TV show "That '70s Show," told the audiences at each location that the work they're doing is important, and coming to see them was the least he could do. "All of us in the United States appreciate what these guys do," Valderrama said. He said it was his responsibility as an entertainer to bring a little bit of home to the troops and "it is a privilege to do so."

(Air Force Tech. Sgt. Adam M. Stump is assigned to the Joint Chiefs of Staff public affairs office.)

America Supports You: More Than 130,000 Americans Send Text Messages of Thanks to Troops

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

Nov. 23, 2007 - More than 130,000 Americans sent messages of gratitude this week to the nation's troops through the "Giving Thanks" text messaging initiative. The initiative is part of America Supports You, a Defense Department program connecting citizens and corporations with military personnel and their families serving at home and abroad.

"The 'Giving Thanks' text message campaign has been a wonderful example of how Americans are still passionate about supporting the troops and saying thank you for their service," said Allison Barber, deputy assistant secretary of defense for internal communication and public liaison. "Hopefully, our troops serving in 177 countries will have a renewed sense of just how much the folks back home support them."

Major mobile wireless providers, including AT&T, Verizon, Sprint Nextel, and T-Mobile, will provide access to the Giving Thanks program. And, while carriers' regular text messaging rates apply to every message sent through the Defense Department program, there are no additional costs to send a message of thanks.

The text messaging initiative officially began at on Nov. 17 and has received more than 130,000 messages of thanks, according to the tally board on the America Supports You Web site -- www.americasupportsyou.mil.

"We had over 130,000 text messages, which is great for a six-day campaign. But what is also important to note is the reception we received from media outlets, business leaders, community groups and individuals," Barber said. "From major networks to digital billboards in Times Square, each outlet we talked to was supportive of informing people about the new way to say thanks to our troops."

That phenomenon of support began over the weekend with talk of the "Giving Thanks" initiative at sporting events, on nationwide radio programs and even a Sunday news show. Tim Russert, host of "Meet the Press," encouraged his viewers to text their support to the troops during yesterday's program.

"During this week of Thanksgiving, let our troops know we're thinking about them through the Pentagon's America Supports You program," Russert said. "You can send your message of thanks by texting to 89279."

All of the messages received express the sender's gratitude for the military and the sacrifices the servicemembers are making. Some messages are longer, others are much shorter but just as powerful, like the one from a supporter in Pennsylvania who wrote, "You are heroes of the heart."

Each message like the one from Pennsylvania will receive a response thanking the sender for thinking of the troops this holiday season.

In response to the public outpouring of support, servicemembers have sent in statements of gratitude as well. Most, like the one from Rick, a Marine master sergeant stationed in Iraq, carry the same sentiment; the troops are glad to know they still have support back home.

Rick wrote, "I'd like to thank everyone back home for their continued show of support for those of us deployed around the world. It means a lot knowing that we're not alone over here in Iraq."

Traditional Holiday Meal Will Replace Field Rations for Many Troops

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

Nov. 21, 2007 - When troops stationed in the Middle East sit down to Thanksgiving dinner tomorrow, the turkey won't come in a brown field rations pouch. Thanks to the efforts of the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia's efforts, troops stationed in Iraq, Afghanistan, Bahrain, Dubai and Djibouti will enjoy a traditional holiday meal.

"Historically, Thanksgiving dinner is one of the most family-oriented meals that there is," said Ray Miller, director of subsistence for DSCP, the agency that supplies meals to the military worldwide. "When you are deployed and you're not with (family), ... it's a taste of home wherever you are."

Hundreds of thousands of troops will dine on turkey, ham, cranberry sauce, assorted pies and more. While this all sounds very "Norman Rockwell" normal, there's nothing normal about the amount of food needed to feed that many troops.

The employees sent 342,382 pounds of turkey alone. More than 15,000 containers of stuffing mix and about 13,000 containers of white potatoes will join nearly 120,000 pounds of shrimp and a combined total of 249,357 pounds of ham and beef, as well.

"It would be like 100 tractor-trailers pulling up outside your house to deliver Thanksgiving Dinnerdinner," Miller said, describing just how much food was sent to the Middle East for the dinner.

And at the back of the very last tractor-trailer would be the one thing needed to finish the meal in fine holiday tradition: nearly 163,500 pies.

As for those with no access to a dining hall, they're not destined to eat the same old everyday field rations. They, too, will get a turkey dinner on Thanksgiving Day.

"We ... have provided a special ration meal called an URG-E (Unitized Group Ration – Express)," Miller said. "It won't be the turkey, but it'll be a turkey meal. It's our attempt to at least try to get something to the folks that are on the far end of the supply chain."

That effort doesn't stop with the supply center personnel. The dining facility staffs go above and beyond, often working on their own time, to make decorations to ensure the day is as special as possible.

"Each dining facility has its own theme chosen by the manager," said Army Sgt. Maj. Terry L. Stewart, a Bridgehampton, N.Y., native and food service sergeant major for Multinational Division Baghdad.

Adding a competitive element to the decorating helps to reward the DFAC workers for the time and effort they spend preparing their crafts. Each command with a dining facility judges the decorations, and medals are awarded.

Sharing a traditional holiday meal that's usually a family affair can bring servicemembers closer together Stewart noted.

"It humbles me," the sergeant major said. "Even though we are away from our families at home, those of us here are family, and we come together in fellowship and give thanks for being alive.

"It's especially rewarding to see the soldiers smile and the joy in their faces when they come through," he added.

The total cost of the Thanksgiving feast comes in at just under $5,410,000. The Christmas meal, which parallels the Thanksgiving menu, will cost about $300,000 less and already has been shipped to distribution points awaiting orders, which will start coming in during the first 10 days of December.

The Defense Supply Center Philadelphia supplies $12.4 billion worth of food, clothing and textiles, medicines, medical equipment, construction equipment and supplies, and services to servicemembers, their families and other federal customers worldwide. The center is a part of the Defense Logistics Agency.

(Army Pfc. April Campbell, 27th Public Affairs Detachment, contributed to this report.)

Secretary, Chairman Give Thanks for Troops, Families

By Fred W. Baker III
American Forces Press Service

Nov. 20, 2007 - The two top Defense Department leaders expressed gratitude today for the efforts of servicemembers and their families and called on the nation to remember those serving this Thanksgiving. "Let us give thanks for them and for the difficult job they do. Let us also remember their families, whom we join in watching and praying for their safe return," Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates' Thanksgiving Day message reads.

In the message, Gates said that the thousands of soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines stationed around the world risk their lives to keep safe the blessings we enjoy.

"Let us give thanks for them and for the difficult job they do. Let us also remember their families, whom we join in watching and praying for their safe return," Gates said. "To the men and women of the United States armed forces, wherever you are – with your loved ones at home or deployed overseas – know that your vigilance, your strength, and your sacrifice are deeply appreciated by your countrymen. Know that Americans will be thinking about you as they gather around the Thanksgiving table."

Navy Adm. Michael G. Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, expressed similar gratitude for families' service in a message marking National Military Families Appreciation Week, which kicks off on Thanksgiving Day.

"A great measure of our nation's strength is the support our soldiers, sailors, Marines, airmen (and) Coast Guardsmen receive from our families. None of us could do it without them. They serve every bit as we serve," Mullen's statement reads.

He also called on the nation this Thanksgiving to remember the sacrifices paid for the freedoms American's enjoy.

"All across the United States this week, families will join together and give thanks for the blessings in their lives and the freedom to do so. Let us never forget how that freedom was won or how, by the courage and sacrifice of our men and women in uniform and their families, those freedoms have been preserved," Mullen's statement reads. "On behalf of my family and the Joint Chiefs of Staff, please accept my gratitude to you and your family this Thanksgiving."

America Supports You: Americans Send Troops Thanks by the Thousands

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

Nov. 19, 2007 - Since 6 a.m. Nov. 17, thousands of Americans across the country paused to text a message of gratitude to the nation's servicemembers for their sacrifices through the "Giving Thanks" text messaging program. "It already feels like a terrific, successful campaign, because from the thousands and thousands of messages that have come in already, we're seeing that the American people really just want a chance to say 'Thanks,'" said Allison Barber, deputy assistant secretary of defense for internal communication and public liaison, of the America Supports You initiative.

America Supports You is a Defense Department program connecting citizens and corporations with military personnel and their families serving at home and abroad.

The "Giving Thanks" text messaging initiative, which officially began at 6 a.m. Nov. 17, and ends at midnight PST, Nov. 22, already has received more than 40,000 messages of thanks, according to the tally board on the America Supports You Web site.

"I think we got off to a great start," Barber said, adding that she thinks the desire to thank the troops will spread throughout the public in the coming days. "What you'll see over the next several days is that more and more people will be looking at how to let Americans know how to text message and thank our troops."

That phenomenon began over the weekend with talk of the "Giving Thanks" program at sporting events, on nationwide radio programs and even a Sunday news show. Tim Russert, host of "Meet the Press" encouraged his viewers to text their support to the troops during yesterday's program.

"During this week of Thanksgiving, let our troops know we're thinking about them through the Pentagon's America Supports You program," Russert said. "You can send your message of thanks by texting to 89279."

All of the messages received express the sender's gratitude for the military and the sacrifices the servicemembers are making. Some messages are longer, others are much shorter but just as powerful, like the one from a supporter in Pennsylvania who wrote, "You are heroes of the heart."

Each message like the one from Pennsylvania will receive a response thanking the sender for thinking of the troops this holiday season.

In response to the public outpouring of support, servicemembers have sent in statements of gratitude as well. Most, like the one from Rick, a Marine master sergeant stationed in Iraq, carry the same sentiment; the troops are glad to know they still have support back home.

Rick wrote, "I'd like to thank everyone back home for their continued show of support for those of us deployed around the world. It means a lot knowing that we're not alone over here in Iraq."

Barber said her goal is to give everyone in the country who has the ability to send text messages the opportunity to send in a message like the supporter from Pennsylvania.

"That's a pretty big goal," she said. "If we can find and maximize every opportunity to invite people to text our troops, and to have them invite their friends (to do the same), that'll be success for us."

Major mobile wireless providers, including AT&T, Verizon, Sprint Nextel, and T-Mobile, will provide access to the Giving Thanks program.