Families Weather Holiday Separations

By Elaine Sanchez

Molly Blake will unveil a special guest on Christmas, someone who is an even bigger hero to her daughters than Santa Claus: their dad.

She’ll use technology to enable her deployed husband, Marine Corps Lt. Col. Peter Blake, to participate in the morning festivities.

“We’ll prop him up on the fireplace on the computer,” she explained.

From his fireplace perch, their dad’s computer persona, which they’ve dubbed “Digital Daddy,” will be able to watch as his daughters, Leah and Helen, open gifts.

The lieutenant colonel’s deployment to the Pacific marks his fifth in the couple’s 10-year marriage. Molly, like many military family members, is accustomed to relying on creativity, and a heavy dose of technology, to keep her family connected throughout the holidays.

“He’s been gone for more Christmases than he’s been home,” said Molly, whose family is stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz. Her husband is the commander of Marine Attack Squadron 311.

To help speed through this separation, Molly used aluminum foil to fashion a bucket in the shape of a chocolate kiss, which she calls a “kiss jar.” The girls counted out one candy kiss for each day of their dad’s six-month deployment and loaded them into the jar. They’ll eat a kiss each day until he comes home, she explained.

Molly also created a “Daddy Journal” for each of them with their picture on the cover. On a recent night when they went out for sushi, they brought the journals along and wrote about the experience. “When he gets home he can relive some of these things,” she said.

Overall, the girls are staying positive. They understand the importance of their dad’s mission, she said.

Molly said she, too, is focusing on the positive. Her husband left for his deployment shortly after Thanksgiving. But while he won’t be home for Christmas, she said she takes comfort knowing other Marines will. “It takes the sting away when someone else will be able to be with their family,” she said.

Cammy Elquist LoRe also is coming to terms with a holiday separation. Her husband, Army Maj. Darren LoRe, has been deployed in Afghanistan since May — his second deployment in four years.

Cammy and her husband rely heavily on technology, such as instant messaging, to keep in touch, she said. She’s also created a YouTube channel where she uploads videos of their 4-year-old son, Sendoa, directly from her smart phone. This way, dad’s been able to watch his son’s first at-bat at T-ball, she added.

The technology will come in particularly handy this weekend, Cammy noted, when phone line connections will be bogged down with families trying to connect with their deployed loved ones. She said she’ll upload several videos on Christmas so her husband, when he has a few minutes off duty, can watch their son open gifts and share family time.

Cammy said she hopes the videos will boost his spirits. “[Deployed troops] have to focus on what they need to do and we tug heart strings every time, but I know it’s appreciated,” she said.

The family also is planning a Christmas encore when Cammy’s husband comes home in January for his mid-tour leave. Cammy said she’ll save some family gifts and leave the tree and house lights up on display. Along with sharing in the festivities, “he’ll get some satisfaction knowing he does the lights better than me,” she joked.

Meanwhile, Cammy is trying to insert special holiday memories for her son between a busy schedule of work and child care. Each morning, she wakes up early to take her son sledding or to bake cookies before their day begins. “The challenge is creating time and the mind-space and purposefulness into the day,” she said. “I still have to work. Finding that time as a solo parent is my biggest challenge.”

Above all, Cammy tries to instill a sense of thankfulness in her son. The holidays can be tough on military families with a deployed loved one, she noted, so it’s important to focus on what’s important.

Kathy Kling said she’s grateful to have her husband home. He missed Thanksgiving this year, but arrived home from his deployment in Kosovo just in time for Christmas with his wife and their 9-year-old daughter, Laurynn. Army Staff Sgt. Jason Kling is a flight medic with the Pennsylvania Army National Guard.

Kathy said the anticipation of his arrival was nearly unbearable on Thanksgiving. The family Skyped before and after dinner, but acknowledged, “it was still a little rough because it was so close to his coming home.”

She said she kept her husband close at hand while he was gone by setting a plate for him at the table — something she does every holiday he’s gone.

While he’ll be home for this holiday, her husband has missed many others, Kathy noted, and offered some advice to other families dealing with deployments. She cited the importance of maintaining a sense of normalcy around the holidays.

If you’re used to being with family on the holidays, she said, then take a trip to see them. This support will prove invaluable if the holiday blues come creeping in.

As a National Guard spouse, more than an hour away from her husband’s unit, Kathy can’t easily access the support systems active-duty families have on hand on a military installation. So she’s created them. She said she makes time to get together with other Guard wives, and they enjoyed a recent outing before the busy holiday season kicked in.

“Family is a great support system, but other wives understand what I’m going through as a military wife,” she explained.

Kathy also stressed the importance of communication, especially between husband and wife. They went through a tough time on their first deployment on this regard, but when she opened up, she said things got easier, and “I became happier,” she said.

Staying busy also can help, Kathy added. Take a drive and look at lights or participate in a holiday community activity, she suggested. “Separate from the madness and stress of trying to please everyone. Simplify. Make it about appreciating what’s going right in your life.”

In the midst of the holiday rush, Kathy noted the importance of pausing to appreciate what you have, and to look ahead with a positive outlook.

The holidays aren’t just about presents and gatherings, she said, but also about “leaving the year and entering a new year.”

“The time may pass by slow, but it passes, Kathy said. “No matter how down in the dumps you might feel, this moment in time and what makes you feel down passes, and then we’re on to another moment.

“That day will lead into the next one, and then to the time when your spouse returns to you,” she said. “And you’ll be back together as a family.”

Season's greetings and holiday wishes

Season's greetings and holiday wishes from Gov. Scott Walker, commander-in-chief of the Wisconsin National Guard, and Maj. Gen. Don Dunbar, adjutant general of Wisconsin, to the 10,000 men and women of the Wisconsin National Guard, as well as their family, friends and employers.

See the video here.

NCTAMS LANT Brings Christmas to Its Sailors Serving on IA

From NCTAMS LANT Public Affairs

NORFOLK, Va. (NNS) -- Naval Computer and Telecommunications Area Master Station Atlantic (NCTAMS LANT) Sailors and civilian personnel spent Dec. 15 packing Christmas cheer to send to its people deployed on Individual Augmentee assignments.

NCTAMS LANT officers, Sailors, and civilian personnel have coordinated and supported many programs this year to bring the spirit of peace and joy to our military and civilian families, collecting food donations for those in need to be able to have a good meal during the holidays; collecting presents for the children; and collecting non-perishable food items, supplies, and money for those who will not be home for this holiday season because they are "standing the watch" overseas protecting our rights to freedom.

The highlight may well have been NCTAMS LANT's Individual Augmentation Pack-Out Program this year for 16 Individual Augmentees (IA). Lt. j.g. Candias Watson, operations division officer, took the lead in coordination. Command personnel donated all the items to be sent to those who are currently serving a tour as an IA. These officers and Sailors will be alone for the holiday season, and they will not be able to enjoy the comforts of home due to serving in areas of the world that are considered to be remote and arduous.

Once all donations were collected, Watson coordinated the pack-out. NCTAMS LANT's Sailors and civilians were invited to participate in putting the packages together. Inside the packages were lots of comforts of home including Starbucks café packets, cookies and crackers, personal hygiene items and phone cards. Santa even showed up to brighten the holiday spirit.

Watson said she took the lead in coordinating this event because, "Deployments are a tough period and receiving a package gives you the feeling that people care. We are a family here at NCTAMS. Raising money and gathering the donated items was a cohesive family effort. We did what supportive Navy families do, showed our shipmates love."

The event was a success and the boxes are on their way to bring a little Christmas cheer to our NCTAMS LANT family away from home.

Spreading holiday cheer is busy work

By Sgt. 1st Class Jim Wagner
157th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade Public Affairs

The mail clerk is one of the most popular people to deployed Soldiers, and at no time is that more true than during the Christmas holiday season - especially for nearly 200 Wisconsin National Guard Soldiers deployed at Camp Bondsteel, Kosovo.

Soldiers from the Milwaukee based 157th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade (MEB) and Company F, 2nd Battalion, 238th Aviation Regiment arrived a few days before Thanksgiving in support of the United Nations peacekeeping mission as Kosovo Forces (KFOR) 15. After approximately three months of mobilization training, mail from home is a welcome sight.

Being away from home during the holidays is always tough, according to logistics officer Capt. Johnathan Koeppen of Milwaukee.

"This is my third deployment and being away from family and friends never gets any easier," Koeppen said. "It is so nice to pick up a package sent from my family or my friends and read the cards and see how much support I have. It's a nice break from the action and makes me feel connected to those at home."

As expected, there is a lot of mail coming from family and friends, said Sgt. Jessica Simmons, a Multi-National Battle Group-East mail clerk assigned to Task Force Falcon, the headquarters element of the battle group. The Macon, Ga., resident is responsible for sorting and processing mail for approximately 400 people in the battle group.

Simmons and her assistant - Pfc. Clinton Glenn, a driver and administrative specialist on loan from the Joint Implementation Commission section during the holiday mail surge - deftly maneuver through the cramped space available after Monday's delivery of packages.

For the Georgia Army National Guard Soldiers, it's their daily job to take the large stacks of mail that arrive and sort them by section and individual.

Despite being assigned to a hectic duty away from his assigned responsibilities, Glenn said he has enjoyed the work so far, and the perks.

"I get to get my mail before anyone else without waiting," the Atlanta resident said with a laugh. "It keeps me busy, but being occupied is a good thing."

Mondays, according to Simmons, are the busiest day of the week - with the post office closed on Sundays, it means an extra day of accumulated mail. On this particular day, there were 41 pieces of accountable mail items - insured, certified or registered mail requiring a signature - and approximately 120 non-accountable items.

She said the record, currently held by Kosovo Forces 14 from last year, is 122 accountable items in one day. Since there is no official tally for non-accountable mail, there is no way to measure what the grand total might have been.

But, Simmons said, she expects to see her office get close to that amount before Christmas comes and goes, and she wouldn't have it any other way.

"Mail is a nice surprise at any time, but during the holiday season it helps bring a taste of home to us," according to Staff Sgt. Sara Anderson of Eau Claire, Wis. "It's amazing how receiving mail can immediately brighten up your day and put a smile on your face."

Navy and Marine Corps Public Health Center Brings Holiday Cheer to Local Area School

By Hugh Cox, Navy and Marine Corps Public Health Center Public Affairs

PORTSMOUTH, Va. (NNS) -- The Navy and Marine Corps Public Health Center (NMCPHC) announced Dec. 21 that Christmas will come a little early this year for Norfolk Highlands Primary School in Chesapeake, Va., thanks in part to the efforts of the organization's staff.

NMCPHC staff began collecting gifts for needy students shortly before the Thanksgiving holiday.

The annual event began nearly 20 years ago when NMCPHC partnered with Norfolk Highlands Primary School as part of the Angel Tree program.

Through the Angel Tree program, NMCPHC staff volunteer to sponsor needy children, donating presents every holiday season for children identified by the school.

Ms. Debra MacLean, NMCPHC staff member and coordinator for the program, has been involved with this community relations initiative since 1993.

In spite of the tight economy NMCPHC responded to the call as soon as the list of names was provided to the staff.

"During the Angel Tree season, our staff really come together to make sure each child is cared for," said MacLean. "We had 42 names of children in need this year and our command outdid themselves this year making sure that each one would receive the gifts they wanted and needed."

According to MacLean, along with a wide variety of toys and games, socks, underwear, tee-shirts and pajamas were the items in greatest demand.

Many of the children come from low-income or single-parent families and live in areas where gang violence is prevalent.

MacLean works very closely with Ms. Michelle Meyer, the Norfolk Highlands Primary School counselor in coordinating the Angle Tree effort and providing a little background on the children to assist the "Secret Santas" in what to give the children, beyond what may already be on their lists.

According to Ms. Meyer, unemployment is a big factor with many of these families who are barely able to make ends meet.

"This year, for some reason, seems a little more special," said Meyer. "You cannot believe how your command has touched so many and how overjoyed they were to receive so much."

MacLean and a handful of other NMCPHC staff members brought the gifts to the school Monday, December 19th to ensure that parents had plenty of time to pick them up prior to the school's holiday recess.

According to Ms. Meyer, all the families were amazed and grateful, and one father in particular was overcome with emotion when he saw the bicycles that were waiting for his children.

"His eyes filled with tears and covered his face with his hand, he was so overwhelmed," said Meyer. "They just came from Nigeria and do not have much, and for them to experience the generosity of Americans in this way is priceless."

MacLean was deeply gratified by the outpouring of support from the staff this year.

"It warms my heart knowing that our command has come together once again and done an outstanding job to make sure that 42 kids from a local school wake up on Christmas morning very, very happy," said MacLean.

Face of Defense: Toy Drop Becomes a Family Affair

By Army Staff Sgt. JaJuan S. Broadnax
49th Public Affairs Detachment

FORT BRAGG, N.C.  – Army Command Sgt. Maj. Paul Vallade and his son, Army Sgt. Joseph Vallade, spent a special day together Dec. 10, when both paratroopers participated in the annual charity toy drop near here.

The father-son duo jumped from an aircraft together for the first time – possibly the only time -- and earned Thai army jump wings in the process.

The junior Vallade arrived to the 82nd Airborne Division’s 4th Brigade Combat Team nearly three years ago. He’s a military policeman in the brigade’s Special Troops Battalion. His father took over responsibilities as the command sergeant major for the 82nd Sustainment Brigade’s Special Troops Battalion earlier this year. They’ve been trying to coordinate a jump together ever since.

The 14th annual Randy Oler Memorial Operation Toy Drop provided the opportunity. Participating paratroopers are supervised by a foreign jumpmaster from one of ten countries. This year, the Vallades’ jumpmaster was from Thailand.

“The odds of us jumping together are not the best in the world, so today was a very special day for us,” said the senior Vallade. “It will probably be the only jump that I will have with this young sergeant before he gets promoted again or I retire.”

“I was thinking that I would never get a chance to jump with him, but thank the Lord,” he added.

Vallade is in his 28th year of service, but his son has the edge on airborne operations, he said with pride, praising Sgt. Vallade for getting his twelfth jump that day. Command Sgt. Maj. Vallade has seven.

“That’s why he got to go in front of me today,” Vallade said of his son. “That doesn’t happen often.”

“The good thing about jumping side-by-side is that he was teasing me most of the day,” he added. “He gave me six cherry pies to put into my pocket. Needless to say, I did not jump with the cherry pies in my pocket.”

“Now I’m just waiting to [inspect his parachute],” said Sgt. Vallade, referring to his ambition to become a jumpmaster.

Command Sgt. Maj. Vallade said that along with having his battalion commander enlist his son into the military and being able to drop him for his first pushup, the chance to jump with him is something he always will remember. His son agreed.

“It’s awesome to have someone to look up to,” said Sgt. Vallade. “I’ve always wanted to be in the Army. It’s awesome to finally be here and be able to look directly up at my dad in uniform and out of uniform.”

“He’s most definitely my role model,” he added.

Command Sgt. Maj. Vallade is equally proud, as his son has developed a reputation for taking care of his soldiers.

“I love you, boy,” he said, as he patted him on the shoulder.

The jump may be the Vallades’ last opportunity as Joseph is about to embark on his second Afghanistan deployment. His father soon will retire from the Army.

Both are feeling the anxiety about the junior Vallade’s upcoming mission, they said. Command Sgt. Maj. Vallade explained that although he has five combat deployments under his belt, nothing can prepare a father to send his son off to war.

“When you’re the deployer, you don’t think about it,” Vallade said. “You train and you prepare, but when your son or your family member is gone downrange, you don’t get a break. You’ve been there, done that. You know what could happen.”

“But, I know that he is trained for it,” he added.

Vallade said the only thing that could top the pride he felt jumping with his son and watching him turn into the combat-proven soldier he’s become, is to jump with both of his sons. The third Vallade is an Army lieutenant.

“If I could get that to happen before I retire, I wouldn’t need a retirement gift,” he said. “That would be my gift.”

Logistics Center Puts Christmas Dinner in Reach for Local Families

By Candice Villarreal, NAVSUP Fleet Logistics Center San Diego Public Affairs

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- NAVSUP Fleet Logistics Center (FLC) San Diego personnel helped put food on the table for local families' holiday season by donating hams and other goods to a San Diego middle school Dec. 15.

NAVSUP FLC San Diego's partner in education, Roosevelt International Baccalaureate Middle School, received eight hams and several boxes of nonperishable and canned food items from the command's community relations committee to be distributed to families of students in need.

"We hold lots of events and functions with our partners in education, but this was something we could do for them over the holidays and that hadn't been done here before," said Chief Logistics Specialist (SW/AW) Curtis Cross. "We asked the school to determine which families should receive the donations and really wanted to make sure they were distributed discreetly."

Eight families received a cumulative total of about 90 pounds of ham and 240 pounds of canned goods, all collected by the committee over a three-week period. The provisions were distributed quietly to families while class was in session.

"We've really grown to know these kids throughout the year, so we're at the point where just seeing a big smile on their faces means a lot to us," Cross said. "The fact that we got the chance to help put a smile on their faces at a nice Christmas dinner with their families, that they're just so appreciative and so excited about everything we do with them, I'm very thankful for that."

NAVSUP Fleet Logistics Center San Diego, one of seven fleet logistics centers under NAVSUP Global Logistics Support, provides global logistics, business and support services to fleet, shore and industrial commands of the Navy, Coast Guard, Military Sealift Command, and other joint and allied Forces. Services include contracting, regional transportation, fuel, material management, household goods movement support, postal and consolidated mail, warehousing, global logistics and husbanding, hazardous material management, and integrated logistics support.

NAVSUP GLS comprises more than 5,700 military and civilian logistics professionals, contractors and foreign nationals operating as a single cohesive team providing global logistics services from 110 locations worldwide.

A component of the Naval Supply Systems Command headquartered in Mechanicsburg, Pa., NAVSUP GLS is part of a worldwide logistics network of more than 22,500 military and civilian personnel providing combat capability through logistics.

Operation Christmas Stockings Comes to 22nd MEU

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW/AW) Josue L. Escobosa, USS Mesa Verde Public Affairs

USS MESA VERDE, At sea (NNS) -- Santa came early this year with more than 660 Christmas stockings delivered to the Sailors and Marines of the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) currently embarked aboard amphibious transport dock ship USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19) Dec. 10.

The MEU Family Readiness Group (FRG) coordinated with families to ensure all Sailors and Marines assigned to the MEU would have a stocking to look forward to on Christmas morning.

"With this being a long deployment and them being gone over the holidays we organized these events to make the holidays feel a little more like home," said Darlene Kern, Combat Logistics Battalion 22 (CLB 22) family readiness officer. "We wanted to show them that even though they are separated by miles from family during the holidays they were being thought of, supported and are loved."

The stockings included a variety of items, such as cookies, toiletries, toys and candy. The stockings came from families, friends and members of the community who wanted to add a little bit of Christmas cheer to those who are unable to be home for Christmas.

"No matter how strong they seem, I am sure it is just as hard on them not being home for the holidays and it is for us at home," said Judi Long, coordinator for the Battalion Landing Team 2\2 and a mother of one of the Marines. "I hope these stuffed stockings bring a little bit of Christmas cheer to all of our loved ones and that this small gesture will help remind them that we do appreciate what they do."

CLB 22's Command Chaplain, Lt. Diego Londono, from Cali, Colombia received and managed the stocking count and distribution process aboard Mesa Verde. Once the packages arrived, it was kept a secret from the Sailors and Marines to give the service members a holiday surprise.

"There was word of us getting something from our families back home, but we weren't expecting anything like this, definitely not full stockings and for everyone, privates all the way up to lieutenant colonel," said Cpl. Craig Turner, from Detroit. "This is my third time missing Christmas in as many years. Last year I was in Japan and it was sort of treated like a regular day. I've never seen anything like this. It definitely gave us a boost."

"We weren't expecting this at all," said Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class (FMF/SW) Deshon Greene, from Chesapeake, Va. "I really appreciate it and I know all of us do. I would like to thank the FRG and all of the volunteers personally."

Although the Sailors and Marines cannot be home for the holidays this year, most are using the stockings as a boost to make the holidays special within their platoons.

"The FRG had already sent us holiday movies so we planned to watch movies Christmas day and now with the stockings we'll have enough hot chocolate to get us through the day and just enjoy the day together," said Turner.

The ship's religious programs department, responsible for the assembly and distribution process, expressed their joy at being able to help spread holiday cheer.

"Anytime I can do something to help my Marines is a blessing, so helping the chaplain put together stockings and distribute was a real pleasure," said Religious Programs Specialist 3rd Class Michael Sency, from Indianapolis.

"I really can't take any of the credit for this; it was all the volunteers back home," said Londono. "Their efforts have been amazing, they made sure everyone would get a stocking and they even sent a few extras just in case. It keeps us all connected. Sometimes people can feel disconnected when they've been away for so long, but the families back home have made an amazing effort to keep us motivated and connected back home."

The Mesa Verde is deployed as part of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group currently supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.

HSV 2 Swift Off-loads Food, Supplies for Project Handclasp in El Salvador

By Specialist Jennifer Grier, High Speed Vessel-Southern Partnership Station 2012 Public Affairs

LA UNION, El Salvador (NNS) -- High Speed Vessel (HSV 2) Swift off-loaded Project Handclasp supplies here as part of HSV-Southern Partnership Station 2012 (HSV-SPS 12) Dec. 14.

Project Handclasp is a U.S. Navy program that accepts and transports educational, humanitarian and goodwill material donated by America's private sector on a space-available basis aboard U.S. Navy ships for distribution to foreign nation recipients.

Swift delivered 28 pallets of Project Handclasp materials containing 85,000 non-perishable meals and various medical supplies.

Kids Against Hunger, whose mission is to feed starving children throughout the world, provided the off-loaded meals. The meals were received by Dr. Jose Rodriguez, a Lifeline Christian Mission administrator, who will deliver the meals over the holiday season.

"A lot of families in El Salvador will not have food for Christmas," said Rodriguez. "Because of the help we are receiving from the United States and Kids Against Hunger, it is possible to provide for them during the holidays this year."

The ship delivered 20 pallets of medical supplies to Ixar Campos, El Salvador's interior secretary. The pallets of medical supplies contained medicine, breathing apparatus, and personal hygiene products.

"My favorite part is knowing we can make a difference," said Campos, "that one person or a few people can make a difference."

The delivery of pallets to Central American countries is one of several missions during HSV-SPS 12. Service members from each of the armed services are working with the host nation partners, participating in subject matter expert exchanges (SMEE) regarding medical and veterinary practices, small unit leadership, port security and construction.

"Through the partnerships we build in efforts like Project Handclasp, our mission continues to effect lives after our ship leaves," said Cmdr. Garry Wright, HSV-SPS 12 mission commander. "It is through strong partnerships that everyone wins."

Southern Partnership Station is an annual deployment of U.S. ships to the U.S. Southern Command (USSOUTHCOM) area of responsibility in the Caribbean, Central and South America. The mission's primary goal is information sharing with partner nation service members and civilians in the region.

U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command and U.S. 4th Fleet (COMUSNAVSO/C4F) supports U.S. Southern Command joint and combined full-spectrum military operations by providing principally sea-based, forward presence to ensure freedom of maneuver in the maritime domain, to foster and sustain cooperative relationships with international partners and to fully exploit the sea as maneuver space in order to enhance regional security and promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the Caribbean, Central and South American regions.

NAVSUP Weapon Systems Support Sees Increased "Toys for Tots" Donations

By Margaret Kenyon-Ely, Naval Supply Systems Command Public Affairs

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. (NNS) -- U.S. Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) Weapon Systems Support leadership thanked employees for their generous donations to the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve "Toys for Tots" drive Dec. 16 in Philadelphia.

The annual drive on the Naval Support Activity (NSA) Philadelphia base ran from Nov. 1 through Dec. 10, resulting in the collection of 624 toys valued at more than $8,000. In 2010, 401 toys valued at $4,000 were donated by base personnel.

"The U.S. Marines always do such a good job, especially this year as the number of donations and value of the toys donated by employees here has increased. We certainly appreciate it as will the young children receiving the toys," said Rear Adm. John G. King, Commander, NAVSUP Weapon Systems Support.

"This is certainly a nice boost for the Philadelphia community as everyone really stepped up and supported the drive this year," said Col. Gary Wiest, Director, NAVSUP Weapon Systems Support Fleet Outfitting, Planning, Support.

The U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program's primary goal is to deliver hope in the form of a new, unwrapped toy to as many less fortunate children as possible during the holiday season.

A field activity of the Naval Supply Systems Command, NAVSUP Weapon Systems Support (NAVSUP WSS) is the U.S. Navy's supply chain manager providing worldwide support to the aviation, surface ship, and submarine communities. NAVSUP WSS provides Navy, Marine Corps, joint and allied forces with products and services that deliver combat capability through logistics. There are more than 2,000 civilian and military personnel employed at its two Pennsylvania sites. The NAVSUP WSS Philadelphia site supports aircraft, while its Mechanicsburg site supports ships and submarines.

Wisconsin Air National Guard unit hosts children's North Pole 'flight'

By 1st Sgt. Vaughn R. Larson
Wisconsin National Guard

A flight of fancy brought an early Christmas for 15 families of children with life-threatening illnesses.

The annual "Flight to the North Pole" began 27 years ago at the Wisconsin Air National Guard's 128th Air Refueling Wing in Milwaukee, in collaboration with the Silverliners - a group of former Eastern Air Lines flight attendants - and the 128th Community Council. The concept has taken off and is now in 20 cities nationwide.

"How long will the flight take?" asked Torre Engstron, 7, of Milwaukee.

"About 20 minutes," replied one of the volunteers before the families boarded a decorated KC-135 Stratotanker designated "Santa Liner" for the day. "We have a special route."

The "Santa Liner" taxied the families from one part of the 128th Air Refueling Wing base to another. En route, children were given the opportunity to visit the cockpit where they heard a message from Santa Claus via headphone, and could "fly" the aircraft with assistance from one of the pilots. Once at their destination - Sijan Hall decorated as the North Pole - the families were greeted by Santa and Mrs. Claus, ushered inside where dozens of carolers awaited, and taken to tables for a meal and gifts from Santa. Each child received a gift or gifts chosen specifically for them.

"Everything we do is for Mannie," said Michelle Harken, Milwaukee, of her 3-year-old son. "It's always exciting for him to see something new, especially because we can't go anywhere right now. It's nice for him to feel he's going somewhere and to be with other kids."

Nicole Batzko of Milwaukee heard about the program from the chairman of the Milwaukee Against Childhood Cancer Fund.

"I think I'm more excited than they are," she said of her children Isaiah, 13, and Kalyn, 5. "It's really nice having other people doing this for us."

Up to 50 military volunteers and as many as 50 civilian volunteers joined forces for this year's event, and coordinator Senior Master Sgt. Bobbie Coker said it was a team effort.

"We start doing this process in October," Coker said.

Many of the volunteers are seasoned hands at the "Flight to the North Pole," with one volunteer - an elf-garbed Sandy Busalacchi - returning for her 25 year.

"You guys are having more fun than the kids," quipped Lt. Col. Glenn Everson, looking at two volunteer elves playing with one of the children.

"Oh yeah, definitely," they replied.

Tech. Sgt. Jennifer Lychwick, who will take the coordinator reins for the annual event next year, said the appeal is evident.

"Just to see all the smiling faces, how happy they are to be here," she explained. "It's great."

"This is my ninth year," Coker said, adding that she hopes to continue with the program after she retires. "I love doing it for the kids. The feeling of gratitude - this starts my Christmas."

Face of Defense: Ballerinas Perform in ‘The Nutcracker’

By Army Sgt. Chris Harper
82nd Airborne Division Public Affairs Office

FORT BRAGG, N.C., Dec. 16, 2011 – Many of the 60 dancers who perform in a local production of “The Nutcracker” ballet are the daughters of service members stationed here.

The ballet, performed by the North Carolina State Ballet troupe, has in recent weeks entertained thousands at the Crown Center in nearby Fayetteville.

Ashley Watters, daughter of the 82nd Airborne Division’s chaplain, Army Lt. Col. Jeff Watters, who is now deployed to Afghanistan, has danced ballet for more than 11 years. This is her second seasonal appearance in the state ballet’s “Nutcracker” production.

Ashley began her dancing journey right here.

“I began dancing at a little place on-post at Tolson Youth Center,” Ashley said.

Erin Rafferty, 11, daughter of Lt. Col. John Rafferty, commander of the 1st Battalion, 319th Airborne Field Artillery Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, has danced with the state ballet troupe for nearly two years.

Erin also played multiple roles in the “Nutcracker” production, including the head mouse, a child and as one of the clowns, which she admits was her favorite.

“I liked doing all of the cartwheels!” Erin said.

Erin’s father said he was impressed with the ballet troupe’s performance on Dec. 4.

“I got to be backstage tonight, and what I didn’t realize was how everything runs so precisely,” said Rafferty, noting he’d expected that backstage goings-on would be more hectic. But operations, he noted, went like clockwork, and the performers knew where to be, and when to change their costumes.

Also featured in “The Nutcracker” performance, which was directed and choreographed by Charlotte Blume, was Anne Talkington, 17, an 11-year member of the North Carolina State Ballet, and the daughter of Mark Talkington, a retired Army colonel.

“It was getting the opportunity to perform with the “Prince” from the Carolina Ballet in Raleigh,” Anne said about the evening’s highlight for her. “He’s professional.”

Sarah Middleton, 13, daughter of Lt. Col. Dan Middleton of the XVIII Airborne Corps based at Fort Bragg, danced the ‘Spanish Variation’ and the ‘Waltz of the Flowers’. Smiling following the opening show, Sarah said her dancing was enhanced by the adrenaline rush she received by performing in front of friends and family.

Paris Sullivan and Lauryn Meehl, both age 11, and Rebekah St. Cyr, 13, account for more than 18 years of dance experience between them. Each is the daughter of Fort Bragg soldiers and each danced to the delight of the audience.

Coronado Holds Safety Stand Down

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Spencer Mickler, Naval Base Coronado Public Affairs

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Sailors stationed aboard Naval Base Coronado (NBC) attended a holiday safety stand down briefing at the base theatre, Dec. 14.

The holiday safety stand down is an annual event held by the NBC Safety Office to help minimize the risk of potential accidents or injuries during the holidays.

"This event was all about preparing the Sailors and civilians aboard NBC to have a safe holiday," said Ryan Hilliard, NBC safety specialist. "We wanted to raise awareness of holiday hazards like suicide, fires and drunk driving."

The safety stand down marks the beginning of the holiday leave period in which many Sailors travel out of state to be with family and friends.

"We provide tips on safe travel, traffic safety, fire prevention and suicide prevention," said Gwenevere Ray, NBC safety director. "We want everyone to have a safe and happy Christmas."

"The brief was good for everyone, it gives us all an idea of what to expect when leaving the base and going on leave," said Mater-at-Arms 1st Class (EXW/SW/AW) Michael Daley. "We hear things like this from our friends and family, but it's good to hear it come from the chain of command."

The Safety office brought in guest speakers from the California Highway Patrol, Fleet and Family Support Center, Federal Fire, and special guest retired Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt., and actor, R. Lee Ermey.

Ermey, who has acted in the film "Full Metal Jacket," joined as a special guest speaker to encourage Sailors to be safe. After the brief, Ermey stayed to sign autographs and take photos with Sailors.

"It's awesome to have someone who's put on a uniform and served in the military come back and see us after they've become famous," said Daley.

The holiday stand down will continue until after the New Year.

For more information about holiday safety aboard NBC, contact the Safety Office at (619) 545-1049.

Giving Tree Angels Donate Gifts for 1,100 Local Children

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Danian Douglas, U.S. Naval Academy Public Affairs

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (NNS) -- Midshipmen, faculty and staff aboard the U.S. Naval Academy helped make a brighter holiday this year for many local children during their annual Giving Tree project which ended Dec. 12.

The team of midshipmen from 6th Company who organized the event, collected gifts for approximately 1,100 children - 400 more than last year - to be distributed to underprivileged families in the Annapolis area.

Gifts ranged from musical instruments to clothes, to a number of bicycles and scooters, with an estimated total value of more than $50,000.

Paper angels decorating the Giving Tree contained the names, ages and gift requests of local children. Midshipmen, faculty, staff and visitors to the academy were encouraged to choose a card and provide a gift for that child. Gifts were left under the tree for the Salvation Army to collect and distribute.

Midshipman 2nd Class Ricky Rodriguez described the experience as very humbling and noted two unique ways the program benefits the academy and midshipmen.

"Not only is it a tourist attraction, but having this program in conjunction with the Salvation Army right here at the academy provides midshipmen with the opportunity to volunteer service to their community without leaving the campus," said Rodriguez.

Originally created by the Midshipmen Action Group in 1992 to fulfill the needs of children in the local community, sponsorship of the project was taken over by 6th Company in 1998, and has been growing annually.

"We sent out numerous e-mails, created and displayed posters in strategic locations throughout the academy and sent out a public service announcement," said Midshipman 1st Class Kristen D. Tella, project coordinator. "This year, because we had so many more angels, we created a group page on Facebook which played a major role in our success.

"It's really important for the midshipmen to give back to the community because the city of Annapolis supports us in everything," Tella said. "It's also a good way for midshipmen to interact with people and to take responsibility."

Naval Base Point Loma Participates in 'Wreaths Across America'

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW/AW) Justin L. Webb, Naval Base Point Loma Public Affairs

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- More than 1,200 service members, veterans and civilians arrived at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery to lay nearly 3,000 wreaths on the graves of fallen troops Dec. 10.

These volunteers were participating in the 19th annual nationwide event, which is carried out in part by coordinating wreath laying ceremonies on the second Saturday of December at Arlington National Cemetery, as well as veterans' cemeteries and other locations in all 50 states and beyond.

This year's keynote speaker was retired Navy Seal Rear Adm. Raymond Smith, who took a few moments to reflect on the more than 105,000 service members and merchant marines laid to rest in Fort Rosecrans.

"This ceremony, which is being played out across our nation today, is a powerful indication that amidst the challenges we face in our nation all of us recognize that we must frequently stop our own busy lives and look to the past for inspiration and courage," he said. "Today we honor them all! Whether they served four years or forty years, there is no distinction. For the raising of one's right hand and swearing of one's allegiance to our nation and its citizens is sufficient to be recognized."

Commanding Officer Naval Base Point Loma Capt. Scott Adams participated in this year's event, and was able to place a ceremonial wreath on a wreath stand as a tribute to fallen Sailors, Soldiers, Airmen, Marines and Merchant Marines laid to rest in Fort Rosecrans and throughout the world.

"I was proud to represent the Navy while recognizing the sacrifices of the service members who have gone before me," said Adams. "However, more to the point of the day I believe, I was thankful for the men and women laid to rest on Rosecrans Hill and for the thousands more they represent who, refusing to be bystanders, took an active role in defending our freedom."

Engineman 3rd Class Kenitha Taylor, who volunteered for her second consecutive "Wreaths Across America" this year was honored to be involved in the ceremony.

"Being able to come here and pay tribute to the people who laid down their lives for us, puts what I'm doing more into perspective," she said. "I could one day be at risk, and it makes me proud to be a part of something bigger. This is what I do every day. It got emotional of course to think about the people who died for the freedoms we have."

Navy Cyber Forces, NETWARCOM Sailors Help Families Celebrate Christmas

By Chief Mass Communication Specialist Aaron Strickland, Navy Cyber Forces Public Affairs

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (NNS) -- Sailors from Navy Cyber Forces (CYBERFOR) and Naval Network Warfare Command (NETWARCOM) volunteered to help two charities make Christmas a little brighter for hundreds of Virginia Beach, Norfolk and Portsmouth, Va., families, Dec. 12.

The group of 10 Sailors joined 150 military and civilian volunteers and Salvation Army staff, helped distribute toys, food, clothing and other gifts donated through the Salvation Army.

Called the Christmas Depot, the week-long charity event combines the Tidewater Area Salvation Army with the Tidewater area Marine Corps' annual Toys for Tots campaign. In all, more than 20,000 children in 8,500 families - more than 39,000 individuals in total - are expected to receive donated presents during the Christmas Depot from Dec. 12-20.

"No matter how big this world seems, we're still all one community," said volunteer Information Systems Technician 1st Class David Hart, originally from San Antonio. "They are still my neighbors."

Christmas Depot was set up in a former retail warehouse, filled wall to wall with thousands of anonymously donated gifts for the deserving families. CYBERFOR and NETWARCOM volunteers helped families pick out toys, distributed 'Angel Tree' boxes filled with clothing for each family member, handed each parent a gift, and helped families load the gifts in their cars.

At the same time, Marines reloaded crates of donated toys to replace those going out the front door.

"We're here to help spread the holiday spirit," said Senior Chief Information Systems Technician Stefan Morrow, whose wife helped him hand out Christmas stockings.

Morrow said. "This is a nice kickoff to the holiday season to get us in the right spirit for giving."

Keeping Sailors 'Happy' During the Holidays

By Lt. Tom Gordy, Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The director for Personnel Readiness and Community Support offered ways to reduce stress during the holiday season, Dec. 12.

The holidays can be a joyous time for Sailors and their families, but they can also be stressful.

By doing some simple things, most people can manage their stress and have an enjoyable and safe holiday, said Rear Adm. Martha Herb, director, Personnel Readiness and Community Support.

"We can feel the full range of emotions during this holiday time. They can range from happiness and joy to extreme stress. And we can deal with the stress if we plan appropriately," said Herb, a member of the explosive ordnance disposal community and a licensed clinical professional counselor.

There are practical steps Sailors can take to manage the stress of the holidays, to include: maintaining an exercise routine; ensuring enough sleep; taking time to relax; planning and keeping to a budget for gift-giving; and celebrating in moderation.

But if the stress and struggles seem overwhelming, Sailors are encouraged to ask for help.

"It's ok to reach out and ask for help. In fact, it takes courage to reach out and tell somebody, 'I'm struggling. I need some help.' If you take the time to ask for help you can solve your issues and move on," said Herb.

Sailors are also encouraged to help shipmates navigate stress by taking the time to be a friend and listen.

"Everybody needs a friend," said Herb. "Everybody needs to be connected with another person. By connecting with somebody, you help them feel better and help them deal with stressors in life."

Herb reminded Sailors that they can make a positive difference in the life of a shipmate who is struggling by taking a little extra time to A.C.T - Ask if they need help; Care enough to listen, offer hope and not judge; and Treat, take action, get proper professional assistance, and follow up.

Additionally, command leaders can maintain a healthy unit by being familiar with the resources the Navy offers and recommending them to their Sailors who are dealing with stress or thoughts of suicide. These resources include Military OneSource at www.MilitaryOneSource.com and 1-800-342-9647, the Veterans Crisis Line at http://www.veteranscrisisline.net and 1-800-273-8255, Navy Fleet and Family Support Program, Navy chaplains and medical providers.

By looking out for each other and planning ahead, Sailors can make sure that their holidays are happy for themselves and their shipmates.

MCPON Sends Holiday Message

Special from Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (SS/SW) Rick D. West

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON)(SS/SW) Rick D. West released the following holiday message to the Fleet Dec. 12.

"Shipmates and Navy families,

Can you believe another year is almost over? It's amazing how quickly time passes when you're staying busy! It seems we were kicking off 2011 just yesterday and here we are, about to usher in 2012.

With the traditional festivities of December upon us, I want to wish you all the happiest possible holidays, and to say thank you for the outstanding service and support you provide to our Navy and nation. I continue to be humbled by your selfless dedication and the outstanding job you do every day around the globe.

We faced some challenges this year and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future, but we will get through them together as we have done for the past 236 years. The Navy, after all, is a team sport and in 2011, we enjoyed many operational successes together that are worth celebrating. They are your legacy ... the deployments, the steady presence in difficult places, the helping hand when natural disasters left vulnerable people in their wake.

You and your Shipmates worked hard and sacrificed often. As you visit with loved ones, scour the shopping malls, or hit the ski slopes during these joyous weeks, take a moment to reflect on the special appreciation America has for you and your family. Be proud of your accomplishments, and share sea stories with moms, dads, siblings, aunts, uncles, and old buddies.

Most of all, be safe and enjoy the holiday season to its fullest. Celebrate responsibly: You are important to our Navy family and we need every one of you to return recharged for the next adventure. Don't let bad judgment ruin the New Year or your life. Look out for each other, and keep an eye on your Shipmates who may be having a difficult time.

It's also important that we remember the thousands of our Shipmates who are deployed, on station around the world vigilantly keeping the watch, ready to answer our nation's call. They are there ensuring we have this chance to deck the halls, gather around family dinner tables, and belt out Auld Lang Syne in a storm of confetti.

Thank you again for serving our great Navy and preserving our nation's freedom. Sailors and families, you are truly among this country's greatest gifts.

Happy holidays Shipmates and HOOYAH!

Very Respectfully,

MCPON"