Vice Chief of Naval Operations Visits Naval Forces in Europe and Africa

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Stephen Oleksiak, Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/Commander, U.S. 6th Fleet Public Affairs

NAPLES, Italy (NNS) -- Adm. Mark Ferguson, vice chief of naval operations (VCNO), visited the Naval Support Activity (NSA) in Naples, Italy, Nov. 28, marking the final stop in a series of visits that included U.S. Central Command, U.S. European Command, and U.S. Africa Command visit over the Thanksgiving holiday.

Other stops included NSA Rota, Spain; NSA Souda Bay, Greece; and Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti. During his visits, Ferguson met with senior leadership receiving briefs on current operations and base infrastructure. Accompanied by Chief of Naval Personnel and Navy Total Force Fleet Master Chief Scott Benning, VCNO also held all-hands calls with service members and answered questions at each location.

While in Rota, Ferguson met with Capt. Scott Kraverath, commanding officer of Naval Station Rota, to discuss the plans for stationing four Aegis ships in support of ballistic missile defense there. They also discussed improving the installation to support the ships' crews and their families. "It's important for me to get over here and see the requirements to get [this base ready for the ships' arrival]," said Ferguson.

In Djibouti, VCNO toured Camp Lemonnier and met with Commander, Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa, Rear Adm. Mike Franken, and the base commander, Capt. Scott Hurst. He presented five awards and conducted one reenlistment before an all hands call, and then enjoyed a Thanksgiving Day meal with Sailors.

In Souda Bay, he toured the guided-missile frigate USS Samuel B. Roberts (FFG 58) and conducted a reenlistment for six Sailors prior to conducting an all hands call. Samuel B. Roberts' most recent deployment took her along the east coast of Africa in support of Africa Partnership Station 2011, an international security cooperation initiative aimed at strengthening global maritime partnerships through training and collaborative activities in order to improve maritime safety and security in Africa.

"The Navy's never been more relevant, and we see that in our Sailors across the globe...be they in the western Pacific, doing counter drug operations off South America, operating in Africa Partnership Station, or in the Middle East," said Ferguson. "They're performing extraordinarily well and in demand, contributing greatly to the national strategy and defense of the nation."

Ferguson's visit to Naples included meetings with senior leaders from Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa, and Commander, U.S. 6th Fleet, to discuss strategic issues within the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility.

He wrapped up the visit with one final all-hands call, where he thanked, not just the service members, but their families for all they do.

"I thank all of you for your leadership, for what you do every day and your service to the nation," said Ferguson. "I've been very impressed with the leadership, your attitudes, the facilities that you have, and I think this is a great place to serve. It's been a pleasure to be here, and I'd like to thank you and your families [for what you do]."

Benning answered Sailors' questions about perform-to-serve and the enlisted retention board. He also praised Sailors for their ability to accomplish a variety of tasks outside of their assigned ratings.

"We train across many spectrums and we prepare [ourselves], and honestly it's what the other [military] services love about our individual augmentee Sailors," said Benning. "[Our Sailors] can do more than one thing, and they can do more than one thing at one time, and that makes [our Sailors] a real commodity that they very much desire."

Sailors who attended the all-hands call appreciated the answers they received.

"The answers they gave us were very straight forward and up front," said Hospitalman Nathan Sichone. "I am confident that [Ferguson] will continue to get the job done and represent the Sailors to the best of his ability and meet the needs of the Navy."

This was Ferguson's first visit to Djibouti, Naples, Rota, and Souda Bay, as the vice chief of naval operations.

Face of Defense: Vietnam Vet to Retire From National Guard

From a North Dakota National Guard News Release

FARGO, N.D., Nov. 29, 2011 – The last North Dakota National Guard member to have served in the Vietnam War is slated to retire tomorrow.

Army Master Sgt. Alan K. Peterson of West Fargo, N.D., will be honored during a retirement ceremony at the Armed Forces Reserve Center here. He is the last of many Vietnam veterans to have served in the state’s Army and Air National Guard during the past 30 years, officials said.

Peterson joined the Navy’s delayed entry program shortly before he graduated from Pine River High School in Minnesota in 1970. He served as a plane captain on the aircraft carrier USS Kitty Hawk in the Gulf of Tonkin off of the coast of Vietnam, where he maintained and cleaned aircraft, assisted pilots and tracked aircraft work orders.

In July 1972, he was sent to shore for an eight-month stint at Tan Son Nhut Air Base outside of Da Nang. There, he worked with other service members to replace tail hooks, patch holes and repair aircraft landing gear.

Peterson left the Navy in July 1974, but he donned an Army uniform in February 1979 when he joined the North Dakota Army National Guard. He deployed to Iraq in 2003 with the Guard’s 142nd Engineer Combat Battalion.

He also served on seven overseas duty training missions -- three times to Honduras, twice to Korea and once each to Jamaica and Panama.

During his time in the North Dakota National Guard, Peterson worked as a construction specialist, engineer equipment supervisor, motor sergeant, construction equipment repair supervisor, mechanized maintenance operations noncommissioned officer, heavy mobile equipment repairer and maintenance control sergeant.

His most recent assignment was with the 3662nd Maintenance Company in Devils Lake, N.D. The Vietnam veteran also works full-time for the North Dakota National Guard at Field Maintenance Shop No. 2 here.

New Director Aims to Boost Student Achievement

By Elaine Sanchez
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 29, 2011 – As acting director of the Department of Defense Education Activity, Marilee Fitzgerald set out on a journey more than a year ago to transport Defense Department schools into the 21st century.

It’s an “ambitious agenda,” she acknowledged, but one she intends to keep now that’s she’s been named the activity’s new director.

Fitzgerald accepted the appointment earlier this month, giving her oversight of all DOD schools, both stateside and overseas. The system includes 194 schools in 14 districts that serve more than 87,000 students.

This is Fitzgerald’s second tour at the education activity. She previously served as associate director of management, chief of staff, chief of executive services and chief of recruitment.

Her experience has helped to shape her future vision, she said.

“I believe in ‘boots on the ground’ leadership,” she said. “The heart and soul of our system is our children, our teachers and our principals.”

Fitzgerald said she intends to keep military children at the forefront of every decision she makes as director. “I have a great, deep and abiding respect for our military and a passion for the education of our children,” she said.

With academic excellence in mind, Fitzgerald said, she’ll continue to pursue the goals she set 17 months ago, which are centered on high student achievement and consistent quality standards for DOD schools and their teaching staff.

Among her top priorities, she said, is adopting a 21-century-style, student-centered approach to teaching, rather than the instruction-focused style of the past. In the 20th century, she explained, students all were in the same place, on the same page at the same time, and “students either got it or didn’t get it.”

But today, teachers are shifting to differentiated instruction, she said, meaning they customize learning to the greatest extent possible to meet individual students’ needs.

The director said she is working to adopt common core standards -- a set of academic standards agreed upon by participating states. Dozens of states already have signed up for these standards, which guide what students should know and by when, as well as a common set of assessments.

“This is especially important for children of military families, and actually any groups of students that are mobile,” Fitzgerald said. As children move to a new state, they may arrive at a new school and a completely different curriculum. Depending on the location, they may be ahead or behind the other students.

“By adopting these common standards, that shouldn’t happen anymore,” Fitzgerald said. “I see that as an important strategy for improving student achievement,” along with rigorous instruction and curriculum.

Equally important, Fitzgerald said, is maintaining a consistent quality of education across the schools. Though she’s impressed with the general level of teaching and leadership in DOD schools, Fitzgerald said, more overall consistency is needed.

“Not every school has the same high quality standard,” she said. “My hope is we can become quite consistent, so no matter where a parent or student goes in any one of our schools, there will be the same level of excellence.”

Ongoing professional development also will help to achieve that goal, Fitzgerald noted. The department needs teachers and leaders who understand the latest approaches and teaching techniques, and how to adjust that instruction to meet students’ needs.

“It’s my hope that when you mention DODEA, that one equates it with one of the best school systems in the world,” she said.

As in all sectors of society, technology will play a key role in the days ahead, Fitzgerald said. In the coming months, she’d like to make better use of data and data systems in decision-making, whether it’s the students’ learning process or management systems. Fitzgerald called a new student information system that captures data such as student attendance “world class.”

Fitzgerald also is hoping to create a shared vision with partners, both within the activity and without, to increase the odds for success. She’s met with a variety of stakeholders, she said, such as staff, leadership, teachers unions, parent-teacher associations, and groups such as the Military Child Education Coalition and the National Military Family Association “to help gain a perspective on what is occurring in DODEA and what we might need to emphasize.”

Outside partners are particularly important, the director noted, since the activity educates only about 10 percent of all school-age children from military families. The remaining 90 percent are in public and private schools and in home-school settings.

“My hope during my leadership time is we’ll build much stronger relationships with these school districts, school entities and communities for the benefit of our military families,” she said.

As she focuses on her goals, Fitzgerald said, she’ll also be tackling some of the activity’s more pressing challenges. For example, she’d like to close performance gaps for students in various subgroups, such as minorities, gender and those participating in free or reduced lunch programs.

In many cases, student achievement has been fairly consistent, and in other areas it’s been “dipping a bit,” she said. To help to narrow the gap, Fitzgerald said, she’d like to increase the emphasis on math programs by installing national common core standards and improving students’ options.

“We’re looking discipline by discipline to see where we need to shore up our program so we can close some of these performance gaps,” she said.

Another challenge is student attendance. Military families understandably want their children at home during certain events, such as a parent’s return from deployment, Fitzgerald said, or upon arrival at a new duty station. But she’d like to temper those absences with the potential impact to a student’s progress.

“We fashioned a policy that respects the military lifestyle, but at the same time ensures our children are in school benefiting from the instruction we have to offer,” she said.

Fitzgerald acknowledged the challenges associated with operating in a fiscally constrained environment while still keeping the focus on improvement. The activity already has taken measures to build what she calls a “culture of savings,” she added, working to streamline above-school-level functions so they’re more effective and efficient. For example, the activity is eliminating redundancies in district and headquarters staff and reducing manual processes by leveraging existing technology.

The director said she doesn’t see financial constraints affecting plans for school improvements. The Defense Department has invested $3.8 billion to help in bringing DOD schools up to a uniform quality standard by 2018. This, she said, will enable the activity to build technology-friendly schools while doing away with outdated schools, some operating with leaky roofs or faulty temperature-control systems.

“I believe the department is still strongly committed to ensuring that children of military families receive excellent education,” she noted, “and surely high quality facilities and instruction are essential to that.”

While the activity must remain fiscally responsible, Fitzgerald said, it won’t ever be at the cost of students’ education. Military children, she noted, are the activity’s greatest assets.

“These children come to us with broadened perspectives and a broad range of experiences,” she said. “They’re the closest to being a global citizen that this world will have. To educate children who can draw upon a variety of experiences is really a joy for both teachers and for those of us who plan educational journey that is both exciting and challenging.”

The activity’s teachers and leaders have a deep understanding of military families’ unique needs and requirements, she noted.

“We understand the transitions,” she said. “We understand how to how to help children adjust. We’re often the facilitators, the linchpins and catalysts for helping children adjust to a school environment.

“That in my view has been DODEA’s strength,” she added. “It’s the backbone of this school system.”

People who work within the education activity have adopted a code of sorts, Fitzgerald said. Military families make many sacrifices, she said, but “education for our children will not be among those sacrifices.”

“And I keep that in mind when I walk through this door, and I will continue to take that with me during my years here at DODEA,” she added.

USS San Juan Sailors Provide 'Sweats 4 Vets'

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

SCARBOROUGH, Maine (NNS) -- Sailors from USS San Juan (SSN 751) participated in "Sweats 4 Vets" event at the Maine Veterans' Home in Scarborough, Nov. 27.

Sailors coordinated the event with their sponsoring city of Biddeford, Maine and American Veterans (AMVETS) Post 1 and distributed more than 150 pairs of sweatshirts and sweatpants to veterans.

"The clothing was primarily provided by the AMVETS, and distributed by the USS San Juan Sailors," said San Juan Chief of the Boat, Master Chief Electronics Technician Gaylord Humphries. "This is the second year of the program, which AMVETS hopes will become an annual tradition to provide winter clothing for the veterans."

Humphries added that nine San Juan Sailors volunteered for the event after an invitation from the AMVETS.

There are additional opportunities for San Juan Sailors to volunteer in the community.

"Our next project will be for Toys for Tots, in which USS San Juan Sailors will assist with putting together 30 bicycles that are being donated by the Biddeford AMVETS post," said Humphries.

Earlier this month, 17 Sailors assigned to San Juan participated in the Biddeford-Saco Veterans Day Parade. Humphries highlighted the importance of his Sailors participating in their sponsoring community for the past two years while their submarine underwent maintenance.

"For the past two years we have been at the shipyard, we have volunteered for these types of events," said Humphries. "It's important to give back to the local communities who support the military."

Retired Master Chief Gene Foster, one of the AMVETS leaders and coordinator between the City of Biddeford and San Juan reflected on the value of teamwork.

"Biddeford and AMVETS has thoroughly enjoyed our relationship with the crew of USS San Juan," said Foster. "We'll definitely miss them when they leave, but the interaction between the community, the veterans and civilians alike, has been enriching for us all."

San Juan and its crew of 13 officers and 121 enlisted personnel arrived at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard April 8, 2010. While at the shipyard, the submarine underwent an engineered overhaul consisting of various maintenance work and several system upgrades.

Survey Shows Growing Gap Between Civilians, Military

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 28, 2011 – A new report confirms a concern defense and military leaders have long recognized: There’s a growing disconnect between Americans and their military.

The report, published last week by the Pew Research Center, notes that a smaller share of Americans currently serve in the armed forces than at any time since the peacetime era between World Wars I and II.

Just one-half of 1 percent of Americans served in uniform at any given time during the past decade -- the longest period of sustained conflict in the country’s history -- the report says. Meanwhile, as the military shrinks in size, the connections between military members and the broader civilian population “appear to be growing more distant,” the report says.

The report was based on surveys of more than 2,000 civilian adults and almost 1,900 veterans, more than 700 of whom served after 9/11.

Among the respondents, most said they have family members who are serving in the armed forces or have served in the past. However, older Americans were considerably more likely to have close military ties.

More than three-quarters of civilian adults ages 50 and older reported having an immediate family member -- a spouse, parent, sibling or child -- who served or serves in the military. For many, that service took place before the end of the draft and the introduction of the all-volunteer force in 1973.

Only 57 percent of civilian respondents ages 30 to 49 said they had an immediate family member who served. The percentage dropped to one-third among respondents ages 18 to 29.

The report appears to confirm that for many Americans, military service is a family tradition. Seventy-nine percent of veterans surveyed reported that an immediate family member is serving or has served in the military. That compares to 61 percent among the civilian respondents.

Decisions to serve also appear to be influenced by race, region and political preference, the report showed. Sixty-eight percent of whites, 59 percent of blacks and 30 percent of Hispanic respondents reported having immediate family members who serve or have served in uniform.

Sixty-four percent of Southerners reported immediate family ties to the military. The percentage for those living in the Northeast was 56 percent, and in the West, 57 percent. City dwellers were somewhat less likely than those in the suburbs or rural areas to say a family member served in the military.

Political party also appeared to be an influencing factor. Seventy-three percent of Republicans, 59 percent of Democrats and 56 percent of Independents said an immediate family member served in the military.

The report confirmed perceptions by civilians as well as veterans that the American public doesn’t understand the problems faced by those in the military. Seventy-seven percent of veterans and 71 percent of the general public shared this view.

Retired Navy Adm. Mike Mullen spoke frequently during his tenure as chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff about what he called a “worrying disconnect” between civilians and the military.

Speaking earlier this year at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, N.Y., Mullen expressed concern that civilians don’t fully understand the sacrifices military members make.

"Our work is appreciated, of that I am certain,” he told members of the 2011 graduating class. “But I fear [civilians] do not know us. I fear they do not comprehend the full weight of the burden we carry or the price we pay when we return from battle.”

This is important, Mullen said, “because a people uninformed about what they are asking the military to endure is a people inevitably unable to fully grasp the scope of the responsibilities our Constitution levies upon them.”

Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta, speaking last month at the Woodrow Wilson Center, called the tiny percentage of Americans who make up the all-volunteer force the most important ingredient of U.S. national defense.

Panetta praised the “men and women who represent less than 1 percent of our nation, but who have shouldered the burden of protecting the American people and who have shown the strength of the American character in their willingness to put their lives on the line to defend our values, our interests and our freedom.”

The secretary emphasized the need for the country to provide them the support they deserve -- even in the face of budgetary challenges.

“The 1 percent of the country that has served in uniform, and their families, have borne the heavy costs of war for 10 years,” he said. “They cannot be expected to bear the full costs of fiscal austerity as well.”

Family Matters Blog: ‘Extreme Makeover’ Seeks Military Families for Holiday Episode

By Elaine Sanchez
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 28, 2011 – The cast of ABC’s “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” would like to brighten the holidays for a deserving military family this year.

The reality show is seeking nominations for military families in desperate need of a home makeover. The selected family will be featured in an upcoming holiday episode.

“We want to do a holiday-themed episode that’s even bigger and more extreme than ever,” David Shumsky, the show’s casting director, said in an ABC news release. “In order to pull off such a huge venture, we need the support of the entire community. We know that the military communities will come out to help one of their own.”

The popular reality show features celebrity Ty Pennington, his design team and a host of volunteers performing a massive home makeover in just seven days. The show focuses on families whose home situation is a severe hindrance to their quality of life, Shumsky explained.

“We really want to help families whose homes present major problems for the family -- those big issues that affect the family's quality of life on a daily basis,” he said. “We want to find deserving people who just don't have the resources, ability or time to fix those serious issues without our help.

“For this special episode we’d love it if the holiday season had some special significance to the family’s story,” he added. “Maybe they have unique holiday traditions or volunteer in an organization specifically geared toward the season. Ultimately, we want to give this family the best holiday they’ve ever had.”

Families in need of a home makeover or community members who know of a deserving family are welcome to submit nominations. Nominations must include the names and ages of every household member, a description of the major challenges within the home, a short description of the family story, and a contact phone number.

People should also explain why the family is deserving, heroic or a great role model in their community and, if possible, include recent photos of the family and home. People can submit nominations via email to jax@emhe.tv.

For more information on how to apply, visit the show’s website at http://abc.go.com/primetime/xtremehome/index?pn=apply.

Chairman Arrives in London for Consultations, Outreach

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

LONDON, Nov. 28, 2011 – The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff arrived here today for meetings with senior British government officials.

Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey also will deliver the Colin Cramphorn Memorial Lecture, sponsored by the Policy Exchange. Cramphorn was the chief constable of the West Yorkshire Police from 2002 until he died in 2006.

The lecture series has featured British and American leaders, including Marine Corps General James N. Mattis, commander of U.S. Central Command, and retired Army Gen. David H. Petraeus, now director of the CIA.

While in London, Dempsey will meet with British Prime Minister David Cameron, Defense Secretary Philip Hammond, and his counterpart, British Army Gen. Sir David Richards, chief of the Defense Staff. Richards commanded International Security Assistance Force troops in southern Afghanistan and has commanded rapid-reaction forces in Sierra Leone and East Timor. He is the highest-ranking officer in the British military.

Dempsey also will meet with the British service chiefs.

Tomorrow, the chairman will speak at a Royal United Services Institute program on women in defense and security leadership.

Enterprise Hosts Crew from Past 50 Years

From USS Enterprise Public Affairs

NORFOLK, Va. (NNS) -- The world's first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, USS Enterprise (CVN 65), hosted nearly 1,000 former crew members Nov. 27 to kick off its two-day 50th birthday celebration that will culminate with a party in the ship's hangar bay, Nov. 28.

The celebration, which is the first for a ship serving 50 years in active service, provides an opportunity for crew members past and present to reflect on the importance of the sea power that Enterprise represents.

John D. Clark, a former photographer's mate who served onboard Enterprise from 1963 to 1965, said he was onboard Enterprise for "two Mediterranean tours and a world tour."

Current Enterprise Sailors were available throughout the day to show their predecessors around, but many times it was the veteran Sailors who ended up giving the tours as they recounted their service from a bygone era.

Although widely considered a very rewarding and, possibly, final opportunity for visiting veterans to walk the passageways of one of the most famous ships in history, the experience had an impact on current Sailors as well.

"Everyone has their own experiences and feelings about this ship," said Airman Apprentice Michael C. Kingsolver, who helped provide tours to the veterans. "It really boosts my morale to hear these veterans share their stories with me and get excited about how things used to be."

A common theme expressed by former Sailors is that while the ship has been upgraded throughout the decades to meet the changing nature of warfare, overall it is very much the same.

"To me, it's a little like spending a day with a childhood friend that you haven't seen in many years," said Dale Inman who served as a Machinist's Mate in the early 1970s. "It makes me nostalgic for the good old days. But you know what, I'll bet I could still man my station if the skipper needed me to."

As Enterprise prepares for its final deployment, deactivation and decommissioning, the opportunity for veterans of Enterprise and future veterans of the ship to meet and interact is one that will certainly be valued by all.

For more information about the USS Enterprise and events scheduled for the 50th birthday, visit www.enterprise.navy.mil, and follow us at Twitter: The CVN65 and Facebook: USS Enterprise CVN 65.

VCNO Makes First Visit to Bahrain

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Tracey L. Whitley, Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/5th Fleet Public Affairs

MANAMA, Bahrain (NNS) -- The vice chief of naval operations (VCNO) conducted an all-hands call with Sailors and Marines stationed at Naval Support Activity (NSA), Bahrain, Nov. 23.

This marked the first time Adm. Mark E. Ferguson III visited service members stationed in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility (AOR) since becoming VCNO in August.

Ferguson, along with Total Force Fleet Master Chief Scott Benning, discussed the future of the force, what is expected of Sailors today, and the importance of theater operations to the Navy and nation.  The two answered questions on a range of topics to include budget cuts, the enlisted retention board, and benefits.

"The Navy may be a smaller force, but our missions have never been more relevant than right now.  I am here with my wife because what we care about most is taking care of you and your families, ensuring that you have the right tools, training and support structure to do your job.  We really have enjoyed spending the Thanksgiving holiday with our Navy family."

Additionally, four Sailors were given the unique opportunity to be re-enlisted by the VCNO.

"I'm re-enlisting for six more years and I feel honored that the Navy's second-highest ranking officer is taking time out of his busy schedule to re-enlist me today," said Yeoman 1st Class Derrick Cunningham.

Ferguson concluded with a few words of encouragement to all those serving in the U.S. 5th Fleet AOR.

"Around the globe, forward-deployed naval forces are making a difference," said Ferguson. "Specifically in this AOR, your incredible pride and professionalism are a model that other navies around the world try to emulate. Each of you represent the very best our nation has to offer and I thank you for your service."

After the all-hands call, the VCNO held a short meeting with spouses, Fleet and Family Support staff, and ombudsmen. The event was an open forum that allowed spouses to discuss their concerns with the VCNO directly.

"It's very important for me to take the time to thank spouses and those who support our Navy," said Ferguson. "Sailors could not do the wonderful job they do day in and day out without the support of you all."

Makin Island Sailors and Marines Help Paint Pearl City Elementary School

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW) David P. McKee, USS Makin Island Public Affairs

PEARL CITY, Hawaii (NNS) -- Sailors and Marines from amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8) helped to paint Pearl City Elementary School in Pearl City, Hawaii Nov. 22, during a two-day port visit to Hawaii.

The visit was the first stop for the ship, which departed its homeport of San Diego, Nov. 14, for a scheduled deployment in support of the nation's maritime strategy.

Lt. Jeffrey Perry, a chaplain aboard Makin Island, organized the community relations (COMREL) project.

"The children continually thanked us for the doing the work we did," said Perry. "As kids are naturally curious, they interacted with us, asked us questions, gave us high-fives, hugs, and great big smiles."

Perry said the experience at Pearl City Elementary School demonstrated why the Navy should keep doing community relations projects.

"We can make a difference, and in the process realize that we do play an important role in our communities and communities around the world outside of our regular jobs," said Perry.

Sailors and Marines who participated in the project said they enjoyed the opportunity to make a difference in the community.

Logistics Specialist 3rd Class Zhou Zhong, who has participated in five COMREL projects in the past, said helping others is a rewarding experience for any Sailor or Marine, as well as a benefit to the military's reputation as ambassadors of the United States.

"I encourage participation in COMRELs because it feels good to give my time to help others, and it's good for the reputation of the Navy in the eyes of the people in Hawaii," said Zhong.

Commissioned in 2009, Makin Island is named in honor of the World War II raid carried out by Marine Raider Companies A and B, 2nd Raider Battalion on Japanese occupied Makin Island Aug. 17-18, 1942. LHD 8 is the second ship to bear the name "USS Makin Island."

Panetta Congratulates ‘Dancing with the Stars’ Champion

By Cheryl Pellerin
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON  – The injured Army Iraqi War veteran who earned first place with his partner on the television show “Dancing with the Stars” symbolizes the strength and tenacity possessed by the nation’s wounded warriors, Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta said.

“I am writing to extend my most sincere congratulations on your ‘Dancing with The Stars’ victory,” Panetta wrote in a recent letter addressed to Jose Rene “J.R.” Martinez.

“Over the course of this competition,” the secretary added, “your spirit captivated the nation and your victory sends a powerful message about the strength and resilience of our wounded warriors.”

Martinez and partner Karina Smirnoff were crowned champions on the ABC reality program after a final dancing competition against other contestants Nov. 22 in Los Angeles.

Panetta also made a phone call to Martinez today, Pentagon spokesman Navy Capt. John Kirby said. Panetta again congratulated Martinez on his victory and reiterated his conviction that Martinez stands as testament to the strength and the resilience of wounded warriors.

During his call to Martinez, Panetta also expressed his admiration for the effort expended by the dancers in preparing for each routine, Kirby said.

During his phone conversation with Panetta, Martinez credited his military training and experience for his performance and his ability to prepare for the show, Kirby said.

The Iraq veteran also reaffirmed his pride at having served in uniform, Kirby said.

Panetta concluded the 10-minute call by inviting Martinez to the Pentagon for a personal meeting. Plans are now in the works to arrange that meeting in the very near future, Kirby said.

On “Dancing with the Stars,” celebrities are paired with professional dancers and over several months perform predetermined dances and compete against other dancers for judges' points and audience votes.

In 2003, Martinez was a 19-year-old Army infantryman assigned to Company D, 2nd Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment of the 101st Airborne Division in Iraq. He was driving a Humvee there when the vehicle hit a roadside bomb.

Martinez suffered smoke inhalation and severe burns to more than 40 percent of his body, including his face and hands.

He was evacuated to Landstuhl, Germany, and later transferred to Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, where he spent 34 months. He has undergone 33 cosmetic and skin-graft surgeries.

While in recovery, the former infantryman began to visit other patients in the hospital, sharing his story and listening to theirs. Since then, Martinez has spoken to audiences at corporations, veterans groups, nonprofits and schools.

In 2009, Martinez was honored by the nonprofit Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America with the Veterans Leadership Award, given in recognition of his dedication to the nation's newest generation of veterans.

“In the eight years since your injury,” Panetta wrote in his letter to Martinez, “you have done extraordinary work assisting other wounded warriors and raising public awareness of the challenges our service members and their families face when they return home, and I would like to commend you for your tireless efforts in this arena.”

The secretary added, “You represent an entire generation -- what I call the next greatest generation -- that has been willing to put their lives on the line for our country.”

In 2008, Martinez landed a role as an Iraq war veteran on the ABC soap opera, “All My Children,” which led to his “Dancing with the Stars” appearances this year.

In his letter to Martinez, Panetta wrote of his belief that the Army veteran would “continue to be a passionate advocate for our wounded warriors and all our veterans in the years ahead.”

“So, thank you for your continuing service, for your sacrifice,” the secretary added, “and please accept my warmest wishes for a joyous holiday season for you and your family.”

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.

USS New Orleans Sailors, Marines Volunteer at Pearl City School

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Dominique Pineiro, Amphibious Squadron 5 Public Affairs

PEARL CITY, Hawaii (NNS) -- Fourteen Sailors and Marines from the amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18) visited a Pearl City, Hawaii, elementary school, Nov. 21, to lend a hand during a scheduled two-day port visit to the "Aloha State."

The Nov. 21-23 port visit was the first stop for the ship, which departed its homeport of San Diego, Nov. 14, for a scheduled deployment in support of the Navy's Maritime Strategy.

While in Hawaii, the ship's chaplain, Lt. Paul Armstrong, set up an opportunity for New Orleans' Sailors and Marines to help out Pearl City Elementary School with painting and gardening.

Armstrong said the team did some much needed priming around different parts of the school in preparation for painting. Additionally, USS New Orleans Sailors and Marines performed landscaping and gardening work to improve the overall appearance of the school.

"It's important when we visit ports to show the Navy spirit of friendship and camaraderie," said Interior Communications Electrician 3rd Class Krystal Pennock. "Being able to help out, even just a little bit, goes a long way."

After their work was done, the Sailors and Marines had a chance to meet and talk with the kids of the school and the staff, who expressed gratitude for the work that they did.

New Orleans deployed in support of the Navy's Maritime Strategy, along with the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8) and the dock landing ship USS Pearl Harbor (LSD 52), which make up the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group (ARG).

Commissioned in 2007, New Orleans is the second of the San Antonio-class transport dock ships. Its warfighting capabilities include a state-of-the-art command and control suite, substantially increased vehicle lift capacity, a large flight deck, and advanced ship survivability features that enhance its ability to operate in the littoral environment.

The mission of the Makin Island ARG is to help provide deterrence, promote peace and security, preserve freedom of the seas and provide humanitarian/disaster response as well as supporting the Navy's Maritime Strategy when forward deployed.

This Day in Naval History - Nov. 25

From the Navy News Service

1775 - Continental Congress authorizes privateering in the War of American Independence.

1943 - In Battle of Cape St. George, five destroyers of Destroyer Squadron 23 (Capt. Arleigh Burke) intercept five Japanese destroyers and sink three and damage one without suffering any damage.
1961 - Commissioning of USS Enterprise [CVA(N)-65], the first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, at Newport News, Va.

Face of Defense: Marine Gives Back to Community

By Marine Corps Cpl. Andrew D. Johnston
2nd Marine Division

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C., Nov. 25, 2011 – An active duty Marine Corps noncommissioned officer was recognized for his outstanding service to the city of Jacksonville, N.C., during a Nov. 22 ceremony at the municipality’s town hall.

Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Daniel G. Stoy, assigned here to the 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, received a standing ovation when he received the city’s Outstanding Veterans Award.

Stoy, who earned three Purple Hearts from wounds he received in the War in Iraq, serves as the sergeant-at-arms for the Military Order of the Purple Heart, Beirut Memorial Chapter 642.

 “Each of the different veteran chapters here in Jacksonville was allowed to put up one nominee for the award, which is basically for your service in the community,” said Stoy, who hails from Hudson Falls, N.Y. “This the first time that The Military Order Of The Purple Heart has had an active duty member up for the award in two or three years.

“Basically [the award is for] all of the volunteer work I’ve done after the tornados hit,” he added. “I had my whole [team] out there working with me.”

Some tornados struck the Jacksonville area in late summer, Stoy said, destroying homes and leveling businesses. He gathered up a group of Marines to help out.

“If there is any time that we need help, Staff Sgt. Stoy always gets his troops for us,” said Verl H. Matthews, senior vice commander of the local Purple Heart Chapter. “He asks for volunteers and he and his guys always come and help.

“These guys are some of the hardest workers,” Matthews continued, “and I just got done signing about 20 appreciation letters this morning. He has just done so much for us and the community.”

Stoy, a married father of three children, said he juggles his duties as a Marine, a community volunteer and husband. He said his wife makes it all work.

“I wouldn’t have been able to do this without the support of my wonderful wife,” Stoy said. “She has fully supported me in everything. She’s here taking care of the home front while I’m out volunteering. It’s that basic love and your basic husband and wife support -- she has been great.”

Stoy said was very humbled to receive the award. He attributes his love for community service to his late father.

“It feels good to be honored like this because my father, who just passed in October, always used to tell us, ‘What you give is what you get,’ so it meant a lot to get it," Stoy said. “Between the balance of work and the balance of volunteering it was tough. But just being able to see the looks on people’s faces, when you’re out there helping just makes it all worth it in the end.”

USNS Safeguard Depart Tsunami-Stricken Japanese Port

By Senior Chief Mass Communication Specialist Daniel Sanford, U.S. Naval Air Facility Misawa, Japan Public Affairs

ONAGAWA, Japan (NNS) -- Sailors and civilians aboard USNS Safeguard (T-ARS 50) departed Onagawa after spending days in the tsunami-stricken Japanese city, Nov. 24.

In response to an invitation from city officials, Safeguard became the first U.S. ship to visit this area since the conclusion of Operation Tomodachi. While inport, the ship welcomed almost 400 local school children aboard for tours, and also delivered donated clothing and blankets to a local school.

The crew, comprised of Military Sealift Command personnel and U.S. Navy divers from Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit (MDSU) 1, Company 1-7, said they were honored by the invitation and enjoyed interacting with the local populace.

"What got me were the smiles on the children's faces," said Frank Watkins, an able-bodied seaman aboard Safeguard. "Seeing them so excited about the ship makes you feel good inside. They've been through a lot this past year. I hope they enjoyed the visit."

Onagawa was greatly impacted by the Great East Japan Earthquake, March 11, 2011, which triggered a massive tsunami that devastated the local area. More than nine months after the incident, the city is still struggling to recover. Because of that, the crew wanted the children's visit to be special.

While on board, the kids had the opportunity to see diving and shipboard firefighting displays, take a tour through the Safeguard-class salvage ship, and enjoy a barbecue on the pier.

"It's rewarding to see the kids have a good time, and I think our Sailors did a fantastic job in making that happen," said Senior Chief Navy Diver John Stegall, MDSU 1, Company 1-7 master diver. "All my guys were very caring, very motivated and I was proud to be their master diver today."

Safeguard previously spent time in Hachinohe, Japan, earlier this year, and in the days immediately following the tsunami, helped clear its harbor for ship travel.

Warrant Officer Davin Strang, MDSU 1, Company 1-7 officer in charge, said Safeguard and its crew are always willing to help out if needed.

"I hope the Japanese population understands that they can count on us if they need us," he said. "After all, helping out is what friends do."

For more news from Naval Air Facility Misawa, visit CNIC.navy.mil/misawa/index.htm or check out our Facebook page at Facebook.com/nafmisawa.

FIRST TALL SHIPS ARE CONFIRMED FOR NEW ORLEANS NAVY/OPSAIL COMMEMORATION

Commemorations of War of 1812 and The Star-Spangled Banner Bicentennials Bring Tall Ships, Navy Vessels, Blue Angels and More to New Orleans, April 17 – 23, 2012

New Orleans, LA – The NOLA Navy Week Host Committee and Operation Sail, Inc. have confirmed the first tall ships coming to New Orleans April 17 – 23, 2012. The historic USCG Barque Eagle will join the Guayas of Ecuador and the Gloria of Colombia in New Orleans at Woldenberg Park.

The U.S. Navy and OpSail will commemorate The Bicentennial of the War of 1812 and The Star-Spangled Banner and have chosen The City of New Orleans as the inaugural destination of a three-year nationwide celebration that will also finish in New Orleans in 2015. For information on the commemoration, visit www.OurFlagWasStillThere.org.

“Being the inaugural city to kick off a three-year nationwide celebration speaks to the greatness of our city,” said Mayor Mitch Landrieu. “We will set the bar high for all cities by demonstrating our experience in entertainment on a massive level.

States, municipalities, and civic organizations have formed host committees to organize the details of the events in each port in concert with Navy officials and OpSail executives. Mayor Mitch Landrieu appointed Mark Romig to be Chairman of the host committee in New Orleans (www.nolanavyweek.com).  Related commemorations will take place on the Atlantic Coast in New York, Norfolk, Baltimore, Boston, and New London. Commemoration events in the Great Lakes will take place in Milwaukee, Chicago, Toledo, Cleveland, Detroit, and Buffalo.

“Our committees have been working steadily to begin ironing out the details that will make up the event,” said Mark Romig, Chairman of the NOLA Navy Week Host Committee. “We are presently looking for sponsoring partners who want to be part of something truly historic and see the opportunity for vast exposure on a national level.”

Built at the Blohm and Voss Shipyard in Hamburg, Germany in 1936, and commissioned as Horst Wessel, the USCG Barque Eagle was one of three sail-training ships operated by the pre-World War II German Navy.  At the close of the war, the ship was taken as a war reparation by the U.S., re-commissioned as the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Eagle and sailed to New London, Connecticut, which has been its homeport ever since.

The Guayas, a 914-ton, three-masted barquentine, was named both for the longest river in Ecuador and the first steamship ever built in the Guayaquil Shipyard. The Guayas stretches over 257 feet long, and, like her sister ship, the Gloria, now serves as a training ship. She carries 80 cadets under the guidance of 35 officers and crew members.

Built in 1967, the Gloria is a Colombian barquentine now serving as a school ship, with a crew of 80 cadets. She was modeled after Germany’s Gorch Foch and is able to stay at sea for up to 60 days without external supplies. Launched in 1968 from Bilbao, Spain, she is 178 feet in length and carries 23 sails. Her first long voyage took place in 1970, when she traveled from Cartagena to Sydney, Australia.

“Bringing the tall ships of the world back to U.S. waters for the commemoration of this glorious American milestone excites the imagination,” said Jose Fuentes, chairman of Operation Sail.  “Throughout 2012-2015, millions of people will watch these graceful and majestic sailing ships as they parade together, and celebrate the brotherhood of the sea and our freedoms.”

The week-long 2012 program in New Orleans will include parades of sail, public visitation, a spectacular air show by the Blue Angels, international athletic competitions, and community relations activities. The theme of the event is, “Our Flag Was Still There.”

 “The War of 1812 really signified our rebirth as a Navy and a nation,” Said Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Jonathan W. Greenert. “In a few short months, we’ll be celebrating the commemoration of the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812. We’ll learn a lot about our Navy over the next twelve months.”

The Navy has invited some 120 countries to send appropriate combat ships as well as their national academy sail-training tall ships to America for the 2012 commemoration events. The Navy and Operation Sail have partnered in producing major patriotic events for more than 50 years.

More ships coming to New Orleans will be announced between now and April 2012.

 

About Operation Sail, Inc.
Operation Sail, Inc. is a non-profit organization established in 1961 with the endorsement of President John F. Kennedy. Backed by a Joint Congressional Resolution, its mission is to advance sail training and promote goodwill among nations. OpSail has produced five international sailing events in 1964, 1976, 1986, 1992, and 2000, each tied to a landmark historical event and culminating in a traditional Parade of Sail in New York Harbor. For more information, please visit www.opsail.org.

Contact: Operation Sail: William G. Armstrong, warmstrong@opsail.org  203-904-8115

About the United States Navy

The U. S. Navy is the sea-service branch of the U. S. Armed Forces. The mission of the Navy is to maintain, train and equip combat-ready naval forces capable of winning wars, deterring aggression and maintaining freedom of the seas. The United States Navy - A Global Force For Good.  For more information, please visit www.navy.mil and www.history.navy.mil. For more information on Navy 1812 Bicentennial activities and events, visit our website: www.OurFlagWasStillThere.org; Facebook: www.facebook.com/Navy1812; Twitter: www.Twitter.com/Navy1812.

Contact: U.S. Navy:  Daniel S. Dayton, daniel.dayton1@navy.mil, 202-685-0210

About New Orleans Tourism Marketing Corporation

New Orleans Tourism Marketing Corporation promotes the city as a leisure tourism destination throughout the year. Annually, NOTMC’s marketing campaigns include strategic print, broadcast, and Internet advertising and public relations.  Web sites: www.nolanavyweek.com; www.NewOrleansOnline.com; www.NewOrleansMuseums.com; www.RadioFreeNeworleans.com; www.gonola.com.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/NewOrleansOnline. Twitter: www.Twitter.com/visitneworleans.

Contact: NOTMC: Lea Sinclair, lea@notmc.com, 504-826-9710.