NAVFAC Southwest Awards $39.5 Million to Construct Fitness Facility

By Mario T. Icari Naval Facilities Engineering Command Southwest Public Affairs

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) Southwest awarded RQ Construction LLC of Carlsbad a $39.5 million contract Aug. 7 for the construction of a fitness center on Naval Base Coronado.

RQ Construction LLC will construct a physical fitness facility, liberty center, and outdoor pool area. The new facility will be approximately 113,000 square feet. The fitness center is planned to be 92,000 square feet and the liberty center is planned to be 18,000 square feet.

"The new complex will be a cornerstone of meeting MWR's mission of providing quality support and recreational services that contribute to the retention, readiness, mental, physical, and emotional well-being of our Sailors' at Naval Base Coronado," said Billy Sandros, NAVFAC Southwest design manager for this project.

The fitness center will include a gymnasium with basketball and volleyball courts with spectator seating, six racquetball courts, and exercise spaces. The center will also have a lobby, reception area, restrooms, administrative spaces, classrooms, and structured activity rooms. A computer area, game room, television lounge, mini theater, concession area, and a multi-purpose room will also be part of the center.

"The project will consolidate four existing athletic facilities that are inadequate and antiquated while providing the warfighter, retirees, and their families a modern state-of-the-art athletic fitness and training complex," said Sandros "The project will also greatly increase the liberty center services currently provided. The new combined center is centrally located aboard Naval Air Station North Island, across from the newly completed bachelor's quarters, and within an easy walk of carrier berthing."

The planned outdoor pool area will include 10 two-meter lanes with accessibility ramp and associated equipment. The pool will be used for operational and survival training as well as for recreational swimming.

RQ Construction LLC will replace outdoor athletic facilities, covered picnic shelters, and fitness stations which are currently located on the site. The existing running track will be replaced with a new running track.

Work is expected to be completed by spring 2015. NAVFAC Southwest is the contracting activity.

Historic HS-4 Transitions to HSC-4

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Shawnte Bryan, Navy Public Affairs Support Element West

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- The "Black Knights" of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 4 became Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 4, during a transition ceremony at Naval Base Coronado, March 29.

The primary mission of the legendary "Black Knights" has always been anti-submarine warfare. However, with the transition from the SH-60F Sea Hawk helicopter to MH-60S Knighthawk, the squadron adds search and rescue, combat search and rescue, special operations support and logistics as secondary missions.

"With this ceremony the legendary 'Black Knights' will embark on a new path, and with any decision of the future there will be uncertainties, but one thing that is clear is that the future is bright," said retired Capt. Michael Fuqua, a former commanding officer of HS-4.

Since the announcement of the transition in October 2011, HSC-4 has been training with the Fleet Replacement Squadron of HSC-3 to ensure a solid transition.

"We are learning the new airframe by going to HSC-3 to train with their instructor pilots," said Cmdr. Tamara K. Graham, commanding officer of HSC-4. "And our maintainers go over [to HSC-3] to execute maintenance under the instruction of already trained maintenance professionals."

After months of training, hard work and the official transition, the men and women of the legendary "Black Knights" can now call themselves "plank owners."

"When you work for a command that is called a legend in history, maintaining that representation is going to be challenging, especially being the first to be called HSC-4," said Aviation Machinist Mate 1st Class Miguel Caro, "but we are all up for the task."

HS-4's most famous helicopter was the SH-3D Sea King "Helicopter 66" which was used to pick up astronauts from Apollo 8, 10, 11, 12 and 13. Recently, HS-4 deployed and supported Operation Tomodachi to aid tsunami victims in Japan, as well as Operations New Dawn in Iraq and Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan.

"HS-4, at least in my eyes, is the best and greatest squadron that ever was and ever will be, and is truly legendary," said Fuqua.

Graham said by the end of May, HSC-4 expects to be fully transitioned and equipped with seven new MH-60S Knighthawk helicopters.

New Navy Barracks Open for Junior Shipboard Sailors

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Josh Cassatt, Navy Public Affairs Support Element West

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- The Navy officially opened the doors of a new combined bachelor housing complex at Naval Base Coronado (NBC) during an afternoon ribbon-cutting ceremony, March 26.

John W. Finn Hall, a 262-room billeting facility for junior enlisted aircraft carrier and squadron personnel, will provide housing for 1,051 Sailors whose commands will be berthed on the island of Coronado.

"Today marks a very important day for the Navy and Naval Base Coronado," said Commander, Navy Region Southwest, Rear Adm. Dixon Smith. "We opened up another thousand beds for our Sailors who are assigned to our ships."

The completion of John W. Finn Hall marks the first time since 1976 that a new barracks facility has been built at NBC.

"This is a fantastic facility constructed to give our young Sailors on the Navy and Marine Corps team a break," said Capt. David Lepard, the force weapons officer at Navy Region Southwest. "They will be able to come ashore, to come home every night to a facility like this, knowing they have a place to relax."

For Sailors stationed aboard aircraft carriers, like Aviation Ordnanceman Airman Blanca McKnight of USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), the availability of off-ship housing is welcomed and appreciated.

"I think having these barracks will help me feel happier and it will definitely feel more homely," McKnight said. "It's somewhere I can go at the end of the day and take my mind off work."

The barracks facility was named after John W. Finn, a decorated World War II veteran who was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions during the attack on Pearl Harbor.

On Dec. 7, 1941, Finn manned a .50-caliber machine gun in an exposed area and returned fire, despite suffering injuries, during the attack by Japanese airplanes.

"John Finn was a remarkable role model, and to name this complex after him, there is no better choice," Smith said. "He was a native of San Diego County, he was stationed here as a young Sailor, retired and came back here, passed away here, and buried here. He is part of San Diego, and there is no better thing we can do to recognize him and his history than 'Finn Hall.'"

With a price tag of $66 million, the new facility features dual occupancy rooms with a kitchenette, laundry area, and community rooms and recreation areas. The grounds have basketball and volleyball courts, exercise areas, and barbecue and picnic areas.

"It's so much better," McKnight said. "You come home at night and have a washer and dryer, double sinks, a full bath, and a stove. You can cook and do laundry at the same time. It's like your own apartment in there."

The construction of the barracks is part of the Navy's Homeport Ashore Initiative, which is designed to improve the quality of life for Sailors by giving them a place to live ashore when their ships are in port.

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.

Imperial Beach Supports Sailors, Families with Thanksgiving Baskets

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Naval Base Coronado Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month

By Aviation Machinist’s Mate Airman Amanda Huntoon, Navy Public Affairs Support Element West Public Affairs

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Naval Base Coronado celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month with traditional music and cuisine at Naval Air Station North Island, Oct. 6.

The nation observes Hispanic Heritage Month to recognize the contributions Hispanics have made to the country, and to celebrate their culture and heritage. This year marks the 23rd year of the national observance, which begins Sept. 15 and ends Oct. 15. This year's theme is "Many backgrounds. Many stories. One American spirit."

Naval Surface Forces Force Chaplain, Capt. Emilio Marrero, said the significance of heritage observations cannot be understated.

"We have these celebrations, so we can look at the past and see where it has taken us presently, and where it will take us in the future," said Marrero, the event's guest speaker. "It is a story that needs to be told because we came together, despite our differences, to serve as Americans. It celebrates the diverse community that we are as a Navy."

"I am excited for this Hispanic Celebration and for the growth the Hispanic heritage has in leadership positions, not only in our country, but in our Navy," said Naval Base Coronado Commanding Officer Capt. Yancy B. Lindsey.

The festivities included a guest performance by Montgomery High School's Mariachi Band, who entertained the crowd of Sailors and civilians with traditional Hispanic music. This was followed by a buffet with authentic Mexican cuisine, and a "Top Chef" competition for best prepared dish.

"We celebrate the different cultural events to recognize the contributions that each culture has given to the United States Navy," said Chief Yeoman Lewis Jiggets, assigned to Naval Base Coronado's Administration Office. "The event was perfect and everyone had a great time."

Currently there are over 43,000 Hispanic Sailors serving in the United States Navy who come together from various Hispanic cultures for one common purpose, to protect and serve.

Leap Frogs Race Into Coronado Speed Festival

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By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (PJ) Michelle Turner, U.S. Navy Parachute Team Public Affairs

CORONADO, Calif. (NNS) -- The U.S. Navy parachute demonstration team, the Leap Frogs, performed during the opening ceremony of the 14th annual Coronado Speed Festival at Naval Air Station North Island (NASNI) in Coronado, Sept. 24-25.

The festival was one of the flagship events of Fleet Week San Diego, which allows local residents and visitors to celebrate the spirit and achievements of Sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen through a series of public events.

The event attracted nearly 20,000 people to the base, which is usually closed to civilians. More than 250 vintage cars raced on the runways at NASNI and around 1,500 classic cars were on display for spectators. Navy jets, helicopters, hovercraft and a rigid-hull inflatable boat were also on display to help commemorate the Centennial of Naval Aviation at the birthplace of Naval aviation - NASNI.

"The Leap Frogs are awesome," said Capt. Yancy B. Lindsey, commanding officer of Naval Base Coronado. "They really add a great dimension to Coronado Speed Festival. Navy SEALs - American people love them, they love to see them so it's really not the opening ceremonies without the Leap Frogs."

The sky opened up after a cloudy San Diego morning just in time for the Leap Frogs to perform. A trail of smoke indicated that the team was ready to jump out of the C-2A Greyhound, assigned to the Providers of Fleet Logistics Combat Support Squadron (VRC) 30, and seconds later five Leap Frogs were in freefall flight. Two jumpers stacked their canopies in a bi-plane maneuver while the other three jumpers flew a POW/MIA flag, a checkered flag and an American flag with different colored smoke.

Musician 3rd Class Spencer Haasenritter, assigned to the Navy Band Southwest, sang the national anthem, which concluded just as the last jumper came in to land with the American flag.

"The pageantry of the opening ceremony component to me is why everybody is here," said Alexandra Squires, executive director for the Fleet Week San Diego Foundation. "They're here to honor the military and by having the Leap Frogs come out of the sky from nowhere is amazing!"

Fleet Week is a great opportunity to open the gates of NASNI to the public, said Lindsey. People can come in and interact with Sailors and see what equipment they operate and maintain. The proceeds from the event support Naval Base Coronado's Morale, Welfare and Recreation funds.

The Leap Frogs are based in San Diego and perform aerial parachute demonstrations across America in support of Naval Special Warfare and Navy Recruiting as a global force for good. The team is composed of parachuting experts from Naval Special Warfare including Navy SEALs, special warfare combatant-craft crewmen, and an NSW parachute rigger, in addition to support personnel.

For more information about the Leap Frogs, visit leapfrogs.navy.mil.