USS Robert G. Bradley in Senegal for Africa Partnership Station Exercise

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Darryl Wood, Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Africa/ Commander, U.S. 6th Fleet Public Affairs

DAKAR, Senegal (NNS) -- USS Robert G. Bradley (FFG 49) arrived in Dakar, Senegal, for its second multinational exercise on its Africa Partnership Station (APS) West deployment, April 20.

Bradley is in Dakar to participate in Exercise Saharan Express 2011, which begins with a pre-sail conference, April 25.

Saharan Express 2011 is a multinational exercises focused on improving the communications and interoperability of West African countries to counter narcotics trafficking and proliferation.

Through joint cooperation efforts, Africa's growing maritime capabilities ensure regional security and stability. APS Bradley continues to enhance the regional capabilities in West and Central Africa by helping to build maritime professionals and international partnerships.

Robert G. Bradley will also conduct a search-and-rescue (SAR) exercise with the Cape Verde navy. The SAR exercise will include a command platform, an air search helicopter and surface search small boats. This training is essential in establishing safety to a country's coastal waters by providing a rapid and effective rescue force.

"Saharan Express will be a great opportunity for our boarding team and SAR team to evaluate and train with our African partners" said Lt. j.g. James Carles, USS Robert G. Bradley boarding officer. "This exercise will further expand the maritime security of all the participating partner nations."

Robert G. Bradley's visit to Dakar will include a military-to-military community relations (COMREL) project, office calls to prominent officials, tours of the ship and a reception held on board.

USS Robert G. Bradley, an Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigate, is homeported out of Mayport, Fla., and is on a scheduled deployment to West and Central Africa.

APS is an international security cooperation initiative, facilitated by Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa, aimed at strengthening global maritime partnerships through training and collaborative activities in order to improve maritime safety and security in Africa.

Military Sees High Recruiting, Retention

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 25, 2011 – Recruiting and retention has stayed high throughout the military for the first half of the fiscal year, according to Defense Department numbers released today.

Through March, the active duty Army, Navy, Marine Corps and Air Force met or exceeded their accession goals for fiscal 2011, which began Oct. 1:

-- Army: 34,264 accessions, 102 percent of its 33,600 goal;

-- Navy: 16,011 accessions, the same as its goal;

-- Marine Corps: 11,497 accessions, more than its goal of 11,468; and

-- Air Force: 14,279 accessions, matching its goal.

In the reserve components, only the Air National Guard fell slightly short of its goal:

-- Army National Guard, 27,426 accessions, 106 percent of its goal of 25,825;

-- Army Reserve, 15,322 accessions, 112 percent of its 13,693 goal;

-- Navy Reserve, 3,998 accessions, matching its goal;

-- Marine Corps Reserve, 5,081 accessions, 112 percent of its 4,525 goal;

-- Air National Guard, 3,413 accessions, nine short of its 3,422 goal; and

-- Air Force Reserve, 4,539 accessions, 14 more than its goal of 4,525.

All of the components are on target with the retention goals, Pentagon officials said.

Naval Medical Center San Diego Treats Sailors following Spice Use

By Lt. George Loeffler and Lt. Cmdr. Donald Hurst, Naval Medical Center San Diego Mental Health Department

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Naval Medical Center San Diego announced April 25, that it had admitted 15 active duty service members for symptoms relating to Spice between August to December 2010.

Spice is a new synthetic designer drug that has become the newest fad among young individuals.

According to the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) website, the DEA exercised its emergency scheduling authority March 1, to control five chemicals (JWH018, JWH-073, JWH-200, CP-47,497, and cannabicyclohexanol) used to make so-called "fakepot" products making the possession and sale of these chemicals or the products that contain them illegal in the United States.

Service members need to be aware of the serious side effects such as hallucinating (seeing and hearing things that are not actually present), paranoia (believing people are after them), or confusion to the point of becoming debilitating. These symptoms can often last days, long after the high and the drug is out of the system. A handful of patients continue to have these symptoms months after their last Spice inhalation.

Spice is a man-made drug most commonly sold in a tobacco form but can also be sold in its raw form as a powder. It mimics many of the perception-altering effects of marijuana; however, because it is artificially produced it tends to be far stronger than Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the natural psychoactive chemical in marijuana. The newness of this drug means very little medical research has been done on its immediate toxicity and long-term psychological and physical effects.

This emergency action was necessary to prevent an imminent threat to public health and safety. The temporary scheduling action will remain in effect for at least one year while the DEA and the United States Department of Health and Human Services further study whether these chemicals should be permanently controlled.

Part of its rise in popularity is related to it being both legal (until recently) and undetected in the normal drug screening process. Concern over the growth in the use of Spice resulted in the U.S. Marine Corps banning it in September 2008. And in July 2009, 15 Sailors aboard USS George Washington (CVN 73) were discharged from the Navy for taking Spice, resulting in a Navy-wide ban on the drug in March 2010.

In January 2011, seven Navy midshipmen were discharged from the U.S. Naval Academy due to Spice use. According to the March 17, 2011, Navy Rhumblines, 192 Sailors have been held accountable for the use or possession of Spice or a Spice derivative since fiscal year 2011.

Spice presents a real and present danger to an individual's mental and physical health, as well as their military careers.

Loeffler is a second year psychiatry resident at NMCSD. Hurst is a third year psychiatry resident at NMCSD.

U.S. Navy, U.S.C.G. Ships Arrive in South Florida for Fleet Week Port Everglades

By Mass Communications Specialist 2nd Class Eric Garst, Navy Region Southeast Public Affairs

PORT EVERGLADES, Fla. (NNS) -- More than 2,500 U.S. Navy Sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen arrived in Port Everglades, Fla., to participate in the U.S. Navy's largest community outreach program in South Florida, April 25.

Service members from visiting ships USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), USS Ross (DDG 71), USS Normandy (CG 60) and USS Annapolis (SSN 760), joined by elements from Navy Assault Craft Unit Four, USCGC Gannet (WPB 87334) and USCGC Diamondback (WPB 87370), as well as Marines from 2nd Marine Division, are scheduled to take part in a variety of community service projects and recreational activities during Fleet Week Port Everglades 2011.

Broward County Navy Days Chairperson Mary Anne Gray said the ensuing ship tours, community outreach efforts from Sailors, and an extension of South Florida hospitality to members of the sea services has continued for more than two decades.

"Sailors coming in give us the opportunity to show how much we appreciate everything they do and all the sacrifices they have made," she said. "This is also an opportunity for them [Sailors] to get out and show how much they appreciate what we do for them."

Fleet Week Port Everglades has historically interjected thousands of dollars into the local economy.

"Broward County benefits when Sailors go out into the community, visit restaurants, stay in hotels and go shopping," Gray said.

Gray said Broward County residents have been anticipating tours of the six U.S. vessels.

"We have more than 7,000 people that are going to come down to tour the ships, and a lot of them are school children, young kids from JROTC (Junior Reserve Officer Training Candidate program), Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts," she said. "This gives them the opportunity to see the Sailors and a new career they may not have thought about in the past."

More than 2,500 Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen are in South Florida for Fleet Week Port Everglades 2011. The week-long celebration of the sea services honors the men and women of the military through public events and recognition, and also provides the sea services an opportunity to showcase the capabilities of surface platforms, equipment and the skills of the men and women serving aboard these vessels.

First Lady Aims to Improve Military Families’ Lives

By Elaine Sanchez

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 25, 2011 – First Lady Michelle Obama stood tall behind a podium in the White House’s East Room, her husband close at hand, as she addressed a packed audience of high-ranking military and government officials.

Although it was a high-powered crowd, the first lady wasn’t there for the officials or for the star-studded brass. She was there to speak for military families.

As the flashes of hundreds of cameras lit the room, the first lady unveiled an unprecedented initiative intended to draw the entire nation together in support of military families.

This is about “the extraordinary military families who serve and sacrifice so much every day,” Obama said. One Marine wife, tightly gripping her husband’s hand, wiped away tears.

The event marked not only the launch of the “Joining Forces” campaign, but also the culmination of a long journey to improve military families’ lives. Over the past two years the first lady, with Dr. Jill Biden at her side, has traveled to bases -- stateside and overseas -– to meet with military spouses and to advocate for funding on their behalf.

“This is the moment that we’ve been working toward for such a very long time,” she said.

For Obama, it’s a journey that began even before her husband took the oath of office. Just over two years ago, she hit the campaign trail and met with working women to discuss the challenges of balancing work and family while “staying sane.”

During those talks, she heard from a segment of society she hadn’t heard from before, the first lady told American Forces Press Service in a recent interview.

“They were military moms and grandmothers and sisters who were handling all of the stresses that we were handling, only adding on the multiple deployments, multiple transfers, trying to finish education,” she said.

Obama heard from mothers who were trying to keep their children settled as they moved from base to base, and from spouses who were having trouble with job certifications. She recalled one military couple that was trying to adopt. Each time they moved, they had to fill out new paperwork, needlessly drawing out the process.

The first lady was taken aback by what she’d heard. Growing up in Chicago, she’d had little contact with military families. Her father had served in the Army, but that was before she was born. She had little knowledge of the challenges associated with military life, including the frequent moves and school transfers, and multiple deployments.

The stories she heard “took my breath away,” Obama said, and also sparked a passion for military family support.

“One thing I vowed on that campaign trail as I got to know these women –- and some men, of course –- [was] that if I had the privilege of serving as first lady, I’d use this platform to shine a light on these issues,” she said.

Obama said she was thrilled to find out that the vice president’s wife shares her passion. Biden is part of a military family with first-hand knowledge of the challenges they face. Biden’s son, Beau, is a member of the Delaware Army National Guard and, as a military mom, she had her own struggles when he deployed to Iraq a few years ago.

“The first time we met, I asked her what she wanted to work on, and it was military families,” the first lady recalled.

Obama and Biden together set out to first “shine a light” on military families, then to call on the nation to take steps to increase the support offered to them.

Just last week, Obama and Biden embarked on a two-day, nationwide tour to promote military family support. They made stops in Colorado, Texas, North Carolina and Ohio during their whirlwind trip. They attended a math and science competition and an employment event, and stopped by a celebration for pregnant military spouses.

At an event in Ohio, the first lady talked about the impact of frequent moves on spouses seeking jobs.

“We see them trying to build seniority at their jobs, but seeing that they have to keep starting over every time that they move to a new duty station,” she said at a national retailer’s distribution center. “And that’s not easy, particularly when so many employers see a resume with multiple jobs as a red flag, rather than as a reality of military life.”

To assist, Obama is calling on businesses to recruit and hire military spouses and veterans, and asking them to make their workplaces more military-spouse-friendly, with flexible work schedules and portable jobs.

In Colorado, the first lady focused on education at the Fountain-Fort Carson High School in Colorado Springs. She spoke of a national math and science initiative that’s working with the Defense Department and partners in the private sector to expand a program called the “Initiative for Military Families.” This program, she explained, provides advanced placement courses in math and science to schools and areas with high military populations.

Military life equips children with special skill sets such as responsibility and flexibility, she noted at the event.

“And when you use that knowledge alongside with what you’ll be learning in these math and science courses and other classes, there’s no telling what you guys will be able to do and what you’ll be able to achieve,” she told the students gathered there.

Their last stop was in Columbus, Ohio, where they hosted a concert-style event for local military families and community members. First up was teen idol Nick Jonas of the Jonas Brothers, followed by the cast of Sesame Street. Both were tough acts to follow, especially with an audience of primarily children and teens. But their introduction by Elmo was met by a thunderous round of applause.

As in their other stops, the first lady asked the audience a few simple questions. “Jill and I believe that everyone -- everyone -- can do something, even boys and girls. Everyone can do something to support a military family. And everyone can ask themselves, ‘What can I do? How can I give back?’”

Following her remarks, the first lady stepped off the stage and into the crowd to mingle with military families. She shook hands and shared hugs, taking time to greet each person with a warm smile and a few words of gratitude.

Their aim, Obama said, is to connect troops and their families -– who make up only 1 percent of the nation –- with the other 99 percent of Americans. “I think that most Americans are like I was -- not aware,” she said. “But I believe that if we’re made to be aware, that we step up.”

Obama said the best way to raise awareness is to pass on military families’ stories. She cited a few that have remained at the forefront of her mind.

One young woman she met stepped up to care for her family after her father was severely burned. While her mother tended to her father, the 15-year-old girl cared for her younger brothers and sisters. She cooked, cleaned and helped them with their homework, the first lady said.

That young woman is now in college, she said, marveling at “the strength and maturity that it took for her to change her life.”

“She did it because, in her own words, ‘My family needed me,’” the first lady said.

In another family, a sister gave up her career as a nurse to move in with her brother and take care of him after he was injured and lost both of his legs, she said.

And many of these families are serving not just in the military, but in the community as well, Obama said. “They’re the coaches, they’re the heads of PTA, they’re the ones leading the bake sales, they’re the ones supporting each other,” she said. “In addition to all the burdens they already have, they’re finding ways to reach out and be the best Americans that this country has to offer.”

Obama said she’s touched by the stories she’s heard, but now it’s time for the rest of the nation to hear them.

“These aren’t stories of sadness,” she said. “They’re stories of success, triumph and coming together and unifying. These are the stories the country needs to be motivated by.”

In the coming months, companies, businesses, nonprofit groups and individuals will be rolling out new initiatives and programs for military families to assist them with everything from employment and education to mental health and wellness. Federal agencies also will continue to pursue the nearly 50 commitments they made earlier this year through the Presidential Study Directive 9, a governmentwide effort to improve military families’ lives.

And Obama will continue to showcase the nation’s efforts to improve military family support. The first lady said she would like to weave her efforts into the fabric of the nation so “when we’re long gone and the next president has taken office, this is just something we do, that all sectors of society will have figured out how to incorporate this into their mission now and forever.”

Above all, Obama wants military families to know their nation will support them over the long haul.

It’s “making sure that you know that from the president of the United States on down, we’re behind you,” she said. “Hopefully, families will see they live in a nation that truly cares.”

Chairman, Undersecretary Visit Deployed Troops

By Jim Garamone

American Forces Press Service

ABOARD A U.S. MILITARY AIRCRAFT, April 24, 2011 – The man who is responsible for personnel and readiness issues for the Defense Department observed how his decisions impact the fight during his visits to Afghanistan, Pakistan and Iraq this past week.

Dr. Clifford L. Stanley, the undersecretary of defense for personnel and readiness, accompanied Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, to meet with overseas-deployed military members serving at forward operating bases and main installations.

“I’m responsible for all people in the military,” Stanley said yesterday during an interview aboard a C-17 aircraft en route to Washington. “I can’t do my job just by pushing papers. I need to be out here understanding the operations, understanding what our troops go through.”

In Afghanistan, the retired Marine Corps major general visited service members at Bagram Air Field and Forward Operating Base Salerno in Regional Command—East and Kandahar in RC-South. He also met with military personnel assigned to the U.S. embassy in Islamabad, Pakistan. In Iraq, Stanley visited facilities in and around Baghdad. And when the C-17 he was riding in on the way home stopped at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, Mullen and Stanley met with troops at Landstuhl Medical Center.

“I was able to speak to a great many people,” Stanley said. “This [experience] will help me do my job.”

As undersecretary, Stanley has responsibility for setting military and civilian personnel policy, the DOD health care system, family matters policies and issues, wounded warrior policies, DOD dependent schools, recruiting, retention and manning issues, to name just a few.

Stanley has been involved in personnel policy issues related to the repeal of the Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell law, and he has helped to develop the training the services are putting into place.

Stanley also is a key player in Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates’ campaign to seek efficiencies across the department. The closure of U.S. Joint Forces Command and the decision to reduce Army and Marine Corps end strength beginning in fiscal 2015, he said, were among the personnel recommendations in DOD’s drive to save taxpayer dollars.

Visiting troops deployed to combat zones, Stanley said, helps him to focus on what is truly important, and what it is the nation is asking these young men and women to do.

“This helps me do my job better, and gives me more information to set priorities in the Pentagon,” he said.

Stanley said he found that the troops are proud of their service and “they felt they were making a difference. They really are heroes.”

This does not mean service members don’t have concerns and they expressed them to the chairman and undersecretary at “All Hands” sessions in Afghanistan and Iraq and during smaller meetings with senior noncommissioned officers and junior officers.

Service members asked the undersecretary and the chairman how budget cuts might affect personnel issues. Both Stanley and Mullen said that they want to ensure that personnel items in the budget are addressed first, so that service members receive the training, supplies and equipment they require before deploying. They also said that they will protect effective programs that support military families.

Both men emphasized that the U.S. military must continue attracting the right recruits, and also retain the best of this generation’s combat-hardened officers and NCOs. If that happens, the services will weather the budgetary storm, Mullen said.

Stanley said he was not pleased by the threatened shut down of the federal government on April 8, which was averted by an 11th-hour compromise on Capitol Hill.

“I need to tell you personally, we don’t need to be having any more conversations about government shutdowns that affect [service members’] pay,” he said. “That is totally un-sat, totally un-sat.”

Military pay ought to be exempt from the effects of any shutdown, Stanley said. Political leaders can shut down the government, he said, but service members should be paid.

“Don’t touch their pay -– not them,” Stanley said. “We ask too much of them. They are risking their lives for us, and their families depend on getting those paychecks on time.”

Big 'E' Hosts Country Music Star

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Michael Croft, USS Enterprise Public Affairs

USS ENTERPRISE, At sea (NNS) -- Country music celebrity Toby Keith visited thousands of Sailors and Marines aboard USS Enterprise (CVN 65), April 23.

Keith has long been associated with his public support of the U.S. military and has participated in many USO tours and performances for deployed troops.

The trip to Enterprise is Keith's first time touring a deployed U.S. Navy ship.

Before performing for the crew in the ship's hangar bay, Keith and his band members had a chance to tour the ship, to meet the crew and see exactly what it is they do on board the "city-at-sea" called USS Enterprise.

"Spending time with our troops around the world is something I've always regarded as a privilege and honor," said Keith. "I won't forget for a second who's really doing the heavy lifting to keep this country safe. And that's why I'll keep going back and spending time with those good folks every chance I get."

Prior to the show, Sailors and Marines had the opportunity to eat dinner with Keith and his crew.

"I had a great time at the dinner," said Yeoman Seaman Joshua A. Wright. "It's not everyday you get to eat dinner with Toby Keith and his crew."

During the show Keith wore an Enterprise tee shirt to show the crowd how proud he is with the ship and her crew.

"I think the concert was great for the crew," said Master-at-Arms 1st Class (SW/AW) Darren Villano. "After what this ship has been through so far this deployment, this concert is exactly what the doctor ordered. This is such a morale booster for the crew."

Keith spent most of the time on stage singing his award-winning songs and spoke to the crowd in between them. He received extremely loud cheers when he began his hit song 'Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue,' which is a song about 9/11 and Operation Enduring Freedom, which the ship has supported during its current deployment.

"I am thankful for every one of you and what you do for our country," said Keith. "I will remember this trip for the rest of my life."

Enterprise and Carrier Air Wing 1 are in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility on a routine deployment to conduct maritime security operations and to provide support to operations Enduring Freedom and New Dawn.

Navy Team Repairs, Tests Misawa Fuel Pipeline

By Ronald Inman, Naval Facilities Engineering Command Far East Public Affairs

YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) -- A U.S. Navy team played a key role in the rapid repair and successful testing of the last six kilometers of pipeline fueling Misawa Air Base April 15.

The mission's success was the result of a collaborative effort that began within days of the devastating earthquake and tsunami which struck northern Japan March 11.

"We made our way to the site the day after the tsunami and the devastation was incredible," said Lt. Dustin Glazier, Misawa Air Base's public works officer. "Cars had floated off the road and damaged fences, light poles and structures. There was no power, no water and about six inches of mud on everything."

Within three days of the earthquake, a small team of inspectors from Naval Facilities Engineering Command's (NAVFAC) Engineering Service Center (ESC) in Port Hueneme, Calif., began investigating the condition of tanks, pipes and fuel delivery system components at Defense Fuel Supply Point (DFSP) Hachinohe, which normally supplies fuel to Misawa Air Base but was damaged and not functioning.

According to Glazier, nearly the entire pipeline was submerged during the tsunami, and although there were no fuel leaks, there was significant damage to the supports and positioning of the lines. In one of the worst sections, a run of 100 meters of pipe was lifted off its stanchions and displaced about 35 meters from its original location. Some of the stanchions were twisted, some experienced severe erosion and some sections previously buried underground were exposed.

In addition to the main terminal, which was swept over by the tsunami, Pump Station No. 2 was completely flooded, with water reaching the roof of most of its structures.

The team completed a detailed assessment, which not only provided a framework for long-term recovery efforts, but also plotted a course for bringing the system back on line in a short amount of time. NAVFAC ESC quickly completed actions to bring in a contractor who mobilized on site and began necessary repairs.

Parallel to these efforts, U.S. Navy Seabees from NAVFAC Far East's Public Works Department (PWD) Misawa arrived at DFSP Hachinohe 36 hours after the earthquake and tsunami. They immediately began clearing debris and reestablishing more than 500 feet of security fencing damaged by the tsunami. Many sections were damaged when vehicles, floating away with the moving water, crossed over the fence.

After the tsunami waters receded, approximately eight inches of sludge covered the entire site. Fuel containment berms were full of water since the drainage system was clogged with sludge.

Working with Japanese Master Labor Contract (MLC) employees from PWD Misawa and Fleet and Industrial Supply Center (FISC) fuels personnel, Seabees cleared the site of sediment three weeks following the tsunami. In one of the most rewarding experiences, the group was joined by Japanese Sailors from Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF) Mobile Construction Group Hachinohe. The JMSDF Sailors removed nearly 250 tons of debris by hand from within the fuel containment berms. All told, the groups removed more than 600 tons of debris from DFSP Hachinohe, which was transported for use as fill material at Misawa Air Base.

Seabees focused a lot of their efforts on the catastrophically-damaged Pump Station No. 2. Work to dry out the site, which still had one foot of standing water, began March 22. They cut drainage channels through the debris and operated pumps. PWD Misawa contacted the local JMSDF office, and they worked with the port authority to mobilize a contractor to make long-term fixes to the drainage problem.

Once the site had been dewatered, Seabees and PWD Misawa MLCs began the tedious process of removing sediment from the site and from within the buildings. These efforts were completed April 15, the same day as the pipeline test. Although Pump Station No. 2 occupies only 10 percent of the area of the main terminal, another 550 tons of sediment was removed from just that site alone.

"The most rewarding part so far has been working with all of the different groups who have made contributions to this effort," concluded Glazier. "In addition to our own Seabees, we worked with the Defense Logistics Agency and the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force Public Works employees, FISC Fuels Yokosuka, NAVFAC Far East, PWD Atsugi, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit 5, Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit 1, Underwater Construction Team 2, U.S. 7th Fleet salvage divers and the Air Force's 35th Fighter Wing. Everyone played a key role, from Hachinohe Harbor right up to Misawa Air Base."

Bataan Celebrates Easter Underway with Sunrise Service

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman James Turner, USS Bataan Public Affairs

USS BATAAN, At Sea (NNS) -- Sailors and Marines aboard the multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) celebrated Easter during a sunrise church service on the ship's flight deck April 24.

More than 150 crew members attended the celebration as the ship transited the Atlantic Ocean en route to the Mediterranean Sea.

"I thought the sunrise service went very well, and everyone played their part," said Cmdr. Steven Souders, Bataan's command chaplain. "God played his part because we had calmer seas, lighter winds and beautiful sunshine. The people did their part for coming out, and the chaplains did their part by singing in the chaplain choir."

For the service members who attended the sunrise service, it was a way to enjoy a small piece of home while away during deployment.

"The service adds a little normality to our lives during this long deployment," said Marine Corps Sgt. Timothy Bunde, the non-commissioned officer-in-charge of administration for the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit's Air Combat Element, Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 263.

"I thought it was beautiful, and it was relaxing to feel the cool breeze and warm sunshine," said Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Kelly L. Pickton, Dental Department's leading petty officer.

Bataan's location added to the already unique ceremony.

"It will be a very memorable sunrise service because there could not be a more fitting place to have an Easter sunrise service at sea; we are heading into the mouth of the old Roman Empire. Just on the other side of the Strait of Gibraltar, at the end of the Mediterranean, is the holy land," said Souders.

Easter sunrise service is good for the crew's morale, which in turn is good for the overall mission.

"Easter is a very holy day for Christians, and it gives all of the various faith communities a sense of coming together in the resurrection of Christ. It is very important to give that renewed sense of hope to the Sailors and Marines aboard," said Souders.

Welcome to Vietnam, Cherry!

During the Vietnam War, newly arrived soldiers were referred to as Cherries (virgins to war). At least this is how it was in the infantry. I’ve heard other acronyms as well such as FNG (fu*king new guy), Newbie and fresh meat, but they weren’t used as often. A grunt (infantry soldier) remained a Cherry until he lost his innocence, which was usually after his first firefight. I remember seeing war movies growing up where everyone was depicted as a brave warrior, rushing the enemy through a wall of flying steel. Let me tell you that most every soldier still remembers his first firefight. It doesn’t have to just be Vietnam, it could be Korea, WWII, Iraq, or anywhere else where you are put in harm’s way. In my case, I was so scared and felt paralyzed and helpless as I laid on the jungle floor – bullets popping overhead and impacting all around me. Only two thoughts were going through my head at that time: how to sink deeper into this ground and I hope I don’t get hit.

I wasn’t a Rambo. Instead, I was confused and unsure of what to do next. Sure, shoot at the enemy they say, but how do you do that when you can’t even see them – which was most of the time! In my haste of finding shelter, my rifle lodged between some tree roots and I wasn’t able to get it free to protect myself. Of course, I pissed myself – just like every other Cherry had done. This turns out to be one hell of an initiation!

The firefight itself is just a small part of losing your virginity and much of the time it only lasts a few moments before the enemy retreats. It’s what you see afterwards that stays with you forever. Soldiers you just met are laying seriously wounded or dead, flesh and body parts are strewn about, blood is everywhere! Your gag reflex was on overdrive. Rarely did I see a dead enemy soldier in Vietnam as bodies were normally taken when the enemy withdrew. And this made life frustrating!

There is some comparison between a Cherry and a freshman in his first year of high school. Just think about it. You are scared, apprehensive, don’t know anybody, hope you fit in, and you know there is much to learn before you are able to graduate. With this in mind, add the threat of death or maiming to your daily routine – somebody may jump out of a locker in the hallway and shoot you (although today that’s not really far-fetched). You must be hyper vigilant to survive 365 days in this school. And still the learning continues.

About the Author
John Podlaski “served in Vietnam during 1970 and 1971 as an infantryman with both the Wolfhounds of the 25th Division and the 501st Infantry Brigade of the 101st Airborne Division. He was awarded the Combat Infantry Badge, Bronze Star, two Air Medals, and a Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry. He has spent the years since Vietnam working in various management positions within the automotive industry and has recently received a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration.

John now works in sales and logistics for a Belgian company that supplies gears and shafts for transmissions and diesel engines. He is a member of Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 154 and lives with his wife of 37 years, Janice, in Sterling Heights, Michigan. They own a 1997 Harley Davidson Heritage and are both members of the Great Lakes Chapter of Southeast Michigan Harley Owners’ Group.” John Podlaski is the author of Cherries : A Vietnam War Novel

VA, DOD create mobile app for PTSD treatment, support

Free iPhone application aims to help users overcome stigma of seeking support

• By Alice Lipowicz

Veterans and service members with post-traumatic stress disorder can now get support from a new iPhone application from the Veterans Affairs and Defense departments.
The VA’s National Center for PTSD and DOD’s National Center for Telehealth and Technology created the new PTSD Coach application to provide remote support for veterans and service members with PTSD, whether diagnosed or pre-diagnosed, the VA has announced. PTSD is a condition that develops months or years after a trauma and can last for decades. The most recent studies of veterans from the Iraq and Afghanistan wars indicated that about 14 percent received the diagnosis, which includes symptoms such as disturbing memories and flashbacks.

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Related stories:Gov 2.0 on the Go: Agencies hit it big with mobile apps
Recovery.gov starts first mobile apps

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The PTSD Coach application was developed for iPhone, iPad and iTouch to provide a self-assessment for the condition, support and treatment options, and tools for managing daily stress from the condition, according to an April 19 news release. The tools support relaxation and positive self-help strategies, and can be customized with contact phone numbers and e-mail addresses, photographs and music, the departments said. An Android version is coming soon.
Julia Hoffman, clinical psychologist with the VA’s PTSD center, said the mobile application is intended to help veterans get over the difficulties in seeking treatment, and can be used anonymously.
“PTSD is characterized by extreme avoidance,” Hoffman wrote April 19 in the VA’s Vantage Point blog. “Many Veterans also have logistical problems getting to treatment because of their location, transportation options, work schedules, etc. Others fear stigma (being shamed or discriminated against) of having a PTSD diagnosis and receiving treatment.”
She said the developers are hopeful that the mobile application can overcome the logistical problems and when used anonymously, can help overcome the stigma.
“For veterans not yet in treatment, PTSD Coach provides tools for managing stress and helps them to understand their difficulties better and learn more about PTSD treatment,” Hoffman wrote.
Federal agencies have created or sponsored more than 30 free mobile applications in recent months as described at the USA.gov website. Many of them provide tools to general consumers and citizens, while others are aimed at assistance for specialized populations.

About the Author

Alice Lipowicz is a staff writer for Federal Computer Week.

Third Fleet Holds Change of Comand

From Commander, U.S. Third Fleet Public Affairs

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Commander, U.S. Third Fleet held a change of command ceremony aboard USS Makin Island (LHD 8), April 21.

Vice Adm. Gerald R. Beaman relieved Vice Adm. Richard W. Hunt.

"I have had a great tour as commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet; and it is directly due to the selfless support each of you has provided in or out of uniform," said Hunt.

Hunt assumed command of 3rd Fleet in June 2009. During his tour he directed the successful completion of many deployments, exercises and humanitarian missions; such as Operation Tomodachi, RIMPAC 2010, Terminal Fury, and Talisman Saber.

"I feel truly blessed and am humbly honored to have led the best fleet in the United States Navy," said Hunt.

Hunt will assume command of Naval Surface Forces (COMNAVSURFOR) and Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet (COMNAVSURFPAC).

Third Fleet was originally formed March 15, 1943, during World War II, under the command of Admiral William F. "Bull" Halsey. He opened his headquarters ashore in Pearl Harbor, territory of Hawaii, June 15, 1944. The fleet operated in and around the Solomon Islands, the Philippines, Formosa, Okinawa and the Ryukyu Islands. It also operated in Japanese waters launching attacks on Tokyo, the naval base at Kure and the island of Hokkaido.

On Nov 26, 1986, Commander, Third Fleet shifted his flag from his headquarters ashore to resume status as an afloat commander for the first time since World War II, aboard USS Coronado (AGF 11). In August 1991, 3rd Fleet's commander, his staff and the command ship, USS Coronado, shifted homeports to San Diego. In September 2003, Commander, Third Fleet shifted his flag from the command ship USS Coronado (AGF 11) to headquarters ashore at Point Loma, San Diego.

"I cannot tell you how honored I am to be given this chance to become the twenty sixth commander of the United States Third Fleet," said Beaman. "When I look at the names that have commanded before me, most notably, Admiral William F. "Bull" Halsey, I fully realize the magnitude of importance and the magnificent opportunity that command of the U.S. Third Fleet presents."

Beaman graduated from Marquette University with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and was commissioned through the NROTC Program in 1974. His previous tours as a flag officer include: Naval Network and Space operations Command in Dahlgren, Va, commander of Strike Force Training Pacific, deputy chief of staff operations, Allied Joint Forces Command-Naples. He is reporting from U.S. Fleet Forces Command as deputy chief of staff Global Force Management, Joint Operations and Fleet/Joint Training.

"There is no better feeling in the world than to awake knowing that you are one of thousands of Sailors who wake up each morning trying to make a difference, to make our Navy a better place, and I intend to do just that as Commander, Third Fleet," said Beaman.

Commander, U.S. Third Fleet provides maritime security throughout the 3rd Fleet area of operations while developing and operating a worldwide deployable combat-ready naval force that is capable of deterring aggression and prepared to fight and win against any adversary while maintaining and improving Maritime Domain Awareness by building relationships, sustaining/ implementing an exchange of communication and information with U.S. Armed Forces, U.S. government agencies, and partner nations.

Marines in Korea Donate to Local Residents

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Brianna K. Dandridge, Commander, Naval Forces Korea Public Affairs

SEOUL, Republic of Korea (NNS) -- U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Korea (MARFORK) purchased and donated much needed calrose rice for mentally and physically disabled residents at the Bnell Home, April 22.

The MARFORK Marines donated nearly a ton of rice, which is approximately a four month supply and an important staple in the Korean diet.

MARFORK became involved with Bnell Home through the Korean American Friendship Society and have committed to providing on-going assistance to the home. The command began making small personal donations of food and supplies to Bnell Home almost seven months ago.

"We are ready to join with our Korean friends and lend a hand whenever and wherever needed," said Maj. Bernard O'Loughlin, assistant chief of staff logistics, Marine Corps Forces Korea. "We are ready to make a difference."

Many of the residents have limited learning capabilities and physical disabilities, and were placed in the small two-bedroom home by families unable to care for them.

"The home is funded completely on donations and support from the local community," said Gunnery Sgt. Min-sook Ellis. "Currently the school doesn't qualify for state aid. There is a real need for assistance."

This donation is just a small part of ongoing efforts to support the residence by the Marines.

"Next we are going to look at making some repairs to the house," said O'Loughlin. "We are planning on taking on a few maintenance projects around the house."

Bnell Home houses approximately 30 people ranging in age from 12 to 50. Families who reside at Bnell Home are not able to function in an independent living situation. The residence is currently applying for state aid and relocation to a larger facility.

USS Carl Vinson Crew Going Greener For Earth Day

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Byron C. Linder, USS Carl Vinson Public Affairs

USS CARL VINSON, At Sea (NNS) -- Sailors aboard USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) celebrated Earth Day April 22 by supporting this year's theme, 'Billion Acts of Green.'

In supporting that theme, which is based on the principle of small individual acts adding up to a larger impact, Sailors were challenged to make one alteration to systemically reduce their collective impact on the environment.

Led by the 'Green Machine,' a team of volunteer Sailors who strive to actively minimize the ship's environmental impact and protect the ocean's ecology, Carl Vinson Sailors set out to become more aware of the environment and how they can be good stewards of it. The team set up a forum on the ship's intranet for Sailors to share their Earth Day suggestions.

"We wanted to get ideas from the Sailors, everyone from the E-1 who just reported aboard to the strike group commander," said Green Machine's senior enlisted representative and IM-1 Division Quality Assurance supervisor Senior Chief Aviation Electronics Technician (AW/SW) Michael Armetta of Vinson's aircraft intermediate maintenance department. "We set up the [intranet] page to get ideas on how to reduce our trash footprint."

A single Vinson Sailor contributing an idea to the team and making an effort to help the ship go greener, supports the "Billion Acts of Green" theme for Earth Day, said Armetta.

"I plan on drinking water out of a refillable bottle, and reducing the number of sodas I drink to three or less per week," said 'Green Team' member, Aviation Administrationman 2nd Class (SW/AW) Zachary Lowry.

"I'm going to use electronic means to read and route paperwork to reduce printing in addition to using reusable containers to eat and drink out of for all meals," said Lt. Nicholas Walker, attached to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 22.

In addition to the efforts of individual Sailors, Vinson's leadership is taking an active role in creating a series of events designed to continually decrease the ship's environmental footprint, and quantify the impact of every Sailor's efforts.

"I will be working with my team of Sailors in our four waste processing plants to measure how much of a difference our crew made this Earth Day by choosing to reduce the amount of plastic and aluminum they use April 22," said Cmdr. Christopher Valdivia, Vinson's auxiliaries officer. "Personally, I'll be drinking my daily soda from the fountain machine and avoiding the plastic cereal bowls and coffee creamers. Plus, I want to be able to tell my kids that we made a difference out here."

"One simple step of changing how you act now benefits yourself, your family and future operations," said Armetta. "You may be 18 or 19 years-old now and not have a family yet. Imagine six or eight years later, still in the Navy with a family, the decisions you've made and the influence you've had spreads to more people."

Armetta encouraged Sailors to consider the immense effort taken to produce and dispose of a single bottle of water.

"We have distilleries aboard that produce water. People want to buy a plastic bottle of water, and that takes energy to produce. It costs money to produce and dispose of that one small item," Armetta said. "Reducing our disposal of 100 empty bottles of water doesn't sound like much now, but it adds up exponentially."

In addition to reducing the ship's environmental impact, reducing the time spent disposing of shipboard trash is a benefit for Vinson Sailors.

"We're taking an hour to dispose of trash during [vertical replenishments], and that affects the mission and [operational risk management] of Sailors. We're working an extra hour to dispose of more than 30 tri-walls of trash," explained Armetta. "If we reduce that hour once a week, we could save 30 to 40 hours over a deployment and get back on target, supporting the troops on the ground."

Sailors' actions have the best odds of changing the way the Navy conducts business, said Armetta.

"A Sailor's choice to drink what the ship produces from the distillery and not buy a bottle of water can be a cultural change. It doesn't take much to change the way the Navy does business. The culture has to change, because the ocean and our landfills can only hold so much trash," Armetta said. "There wasn't much of a conservation philosophy 20 or 25 years ago, because no one was taking measurements of the trash the Navy was producing. Now there's the 'Green Machine' platform for Carl Vinson to be a greener work environment and reduce our footprint while we conduct our mission."

Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group is deployed supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.

Today in the Department of Defense, Saturday, April 23, 2011

Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates and Deputy Secretary of Defense William J. Lynn have no public or media events on their schedules.

2011 Army Earth Day Message

Our Army is people - more than 2.2 million Soldiers, Civilians and Family members. Together, we have a big impact on our environment-it's our responsibility to ensure it is a positive impact.

As individuals. there is much we can do to demonstrate our commitment to protecting the environment and becoming more sustainable. Simple things like turning off lights and water faucets when not in use; carpooling; collecting and reusing rain water; reducing the use of individual plastic water bottles; recycling paper, cans and plastic bottles; composting organic waste; minimizing the waste generated; and purchasing energy and water efficient appliances. All contribute to our goal of lessening our collective “bootprint" on the Earth.

As an Army, we have already done much to protect the natural environment on which we depend. Our installations are exploring ways to produce more energy while consuming less; to ensure that our water usage does not exceed its availability; and to promote recycling, repurposing and reuse.

We are also considering the waste stream in all of our purchases by choosing items with less packaging, reusing what we can and recycling the rest. These responsible steps support our dedication to sustaining our environment today to ensure we have enough to perform our mission in the future. When we compare what we consume with what we produce, we strive for a net zero end result.

This goal of net zero touches every part of our Army. Our energy programs impact not only the environment at large, but also our Soldiers in the field. For example, promotion of greater fuel efficiency and use of alternative energy technologies can result in fewer fuel convoys and potentially fewer casualties. A military that is not dependent on fossil fuels has the freedom and flexibility to fight in locations where fuel delivery is logistically difficult. Furthermore, money saved by using less fuel can be used for other priorities. Though the Army continues to aggressively expand its efforts in the area of operational energy, it is clear that we need to do more. We must continually consider the impact of everything we do not only on our financial and natural resources, but also on our ability to meet the operational challenges of the future.

As we commemorate Earth Day 2011, we encourage you to take an active role in sustaining the Earth's resources. Look for ways to minimize the Army bootprint, as well as your personal bootprint. Join us in our commitment to preserve a quality environment, ensure availability of needed resources for the future, and maximize the operational flexibility of our Soldiers.

 

Raymond F. Chandler III

Sergeant Major of the Army

Martin E. Dempsey

Chief of Staff of the Army

 

John M. McHugh

Secretary of the Army

This Day in Naval History - April 22

From the Navy News Service

1778 - Capt. John Paul Jones of Ranger leads a landing party raid on Whitehaven, England.

1898 - U.S. warships begin a blockade of Cuba.

1987 - The U.S. Navy is ordered to provide assistance to neutral vessels under Iranian attack outside the exclusion zone and that requested help.