Overhauled Tennessee, Families Return to Kings Bay

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class(SW) James Kimber, Commander, Submarine Group 10 Public Affairs

KINGS BAY, Ga. (NNS) -- USS Tennessee (SSBN 734) returned to its homeport at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, Ga., July 29, following a 30-month refueling and overhaul (ROH) at Norfolk Naval Shipyard.

The ROH period required more than 400,000 workdays to ensure the Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine can perform its critical global nuclear deterrent missions.

The reactor found in Navy nuclear-powered ships typically uses up its nuclear fuel about halfway through the desired 50-year lifespan. At the same time a ship is refueled, an overhaul is performed to provide extensive maintenance and renovation to extend the ship's service life. This can include removing systems and equipment onboard and replacing them with contemporary equivalents, as Tennessee had with some analog gear being upgraded to digital electronics.

According to the submarine's project supervisor Dennis Bevington, a project manager at Norfolk Naval Shipyard in Portsmouth, Va., Tennessee received a thorough cleaning and modernization during the ROH.

"We performed a complete overhaul of its steering and diving systems," said Bevington. "We also overhauled numerous hull valves and components based on the planned maintenance schedule. We then installed the reverse osmosis, a new battery and installed the first alteration on its engineering plant control systems, upgrading it from analog to microprocessor controls."

"This was the first major availability performed on a Trident that had an upgraded missile fire control system," said Bevington. "This made the testing program and follow on operational checks very challenging. The dedication and skill of the mechanics involved was always at the highest level though. We also implemented numerous improvements in our project management strategy."

The improvements included the employment of updated programs like Lean Release 3.0. The streamlined Navy project management program assists planners to better prioritize evolutions during maintenance periods. This maximized efficiency at the executive level leads to increased production in the project team and ship's work force efforts.

"Projects like this cannot be accomplished without the highest level of cooperation and teamwork between the ship and the yard," said Bevington. "Our focus and attention to safety and cleanliness led to the best safety record of any refueling to date. The crew of the Tennessee was the best, most highly motivated group of professionals I have ever seen. Our shipyard team also put in long, hard hours and overcame numerous obstacles along the way. In the end, the Tennessee was a perfect integration of not only the project and the ship, but every single shop and department in the yard. We all got there together as a shipyard team."

The submarine's move from the shipyard in Virginia to the submarine base in Kings Bay may offer battle commanders an additional asset in the protection of national security, but it also created an unavoidable matter for family members living in the Old Dominion: a mass permanent change of station, or PCS.

Tennessee command ombudsman, Michelle King, said the boat's command helped provide as much assistance as needed for families feeling the inevitable stresses of relocation.

"[The command] arranged a Smart Move meeting for the Sailors and their families last February," said King. "The meeting covered change-of-homeport letters, who would be affected and what to know when planning a move back down to Kings Bay. Representatives from personal property, the Camden County Chamber of Commerce, MWR, TRICARE and base housing attended the meeting and provided information to make the transition to Kings Bay a smooth one."

The meeting's name was borrowed from the Naval Supply Systems Command's online portal Smart Web Move, a program developed to help active duty personnel and their families plan and arrange household goods moves from their home computer. Tennessee Family Readiness Group (FRG) president Sarah Suarez said the command's initiative to push this web-based program and in inviting the experts to talk to the soon-to-be travelling families was appreciated.

"Happy families make happy Sailors," Suarez said. "Family readiness practices good moral values for families and because of that it makes a huge impact directly relating to the morale of the Sailor. Our husbands' mission is to go underway, get the job done right and return home safely to their families."

In addition to the command's proactive efforts, the FRG provided support and advice to other families who may have been transferring for the first time, or facing other strains.

"Our purpose is to help our families by building social bonds," Suarez said of the importance of the FRG. "Positive attitudes are more likely to grow along with a better understanding of deployments, and FRG meetings are a great way for the commands to hear the voice of family members."

No meeting was necessary to hear the voice of family members at the homecoming held at the Clubs of Kings Bay on base; this group was glad the Tennessee family was back at homeport.

"[Kings Bay] has such a small town feel to it," said Amy Murray, a Tennessee family member from Saratoga Springs, N.Y. "I have no family in the area, but if I'm ever sick or need help taking care of my son for a few hours, somebody will be at my door probably before I can even get out of my bed. I really like this area."

Jennifer Lanclos, another Tennessee spouse who recently separated from the Navy, said despite the heat and gnats in the southern Georgia summer, she feels the community is very supportive.

"The submarine community is a tight-knit community," said Lanclos, an Afghanistan veteran. "There's good communication and everyone here is friendly and trustworthy."

USS Tennessee (SSBN 734) is the fourth U.S. Navy ship to be named for the Volunteer State.

Navy, Academic Medicine Team Up During LA Navy Week

By Valerie A. Kremer, U.S. Navy Bureau of Medicine and Surgery Public Affairs

LOS ANGELES (NNS) -- Navy Medicine and the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) examined shared initiatives in humanitarian assistance, family care programs and Wounded Warrior care, as part of Los Angeles Navy Week, July 29.

Rear Adm. Alton Stocks, commander, Navy Medicine East and Naval Medical Center Portsmouth (NMCP), met with leadership and staff and toured the facility during the visit.

"It was a great opportunity to show the admiral our Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center and patient care capabilities, especially since UCLA is involved in helping America's wounded military personnel through our Operation Mend Program," said Shannon O'Kelley, chief operating officer, UCLA Health System. "In addition, it was wonderful to learn more about the extraordinary and tireless care both UCLA and Navy Medicine provided during the humanitarian assistance/disaster relief mission to Haiti last year."

During the visit, top medical personnel and Stocks shared similarities and best practices in Navy Medicine's Project FOCUS (Families OverComing Under Stress) and Wounded Warrior care programs such as UCLA's Operation Mend.

Navy Medicine and UCLA collaborated in 2009 to establish Project FOCUS, a family-centered resiliency training program based on evidence-based interventions that enhance understanding, psychological health, and developmental outcomes for highly stressed children and families.

Stocks expressed his appreciation for the successful collaboration with UCLA on Project FOCUS in caring not only for patients, but the family as well.

UCLA medical personnel also shared their experiences with Stocks about UCLA's Operation Haiti. During this time, UCLA medical personnel contributed medical expertise to the Department of Defense's relief effort in Haiti.

"I have a deep connection to Operation Unified Response, Navy Medicine's humanitarian assistance/disaster relief to Haiti, since many of the Navy medical personnel who worked non-stop providing world-class care, were from NMCP," said Stocks. "We are extremely proud of the work Navy Medicine did in working closely with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and civilian institutions such as UCLA.

During his presentation to staff, Stocks shared how Navy Medicine's emergency medicine and trauma care is a critical piece of the chief of naval operation's maritime strategy. Along with traditional roles like deployments and projecting power abroad, Stocks discussed how international partnerships and providing care through humanitarian assistance missions has further demonstrated how Navy Medicine's emergency medicine and research and development has made an impact on a global scale.

"UCLA plays an outstanding role in supporting the military's mission while providing high quality care to service members and their families," said Stocks. "We look forward to continuing the conversation with shared initiatives with UCLA in the future."

Operation Mend is a unique partnership between Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas, and the V.A.-Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System and has been established to help treat U.S. military personnel severely wounded during service in Iraq and Afghanistan.

For more than half a century, UCLA Health System has provided outstanding healthcare and the latest in medical technology to the people of Los Angeles and throughout the world. Comprised of Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, Santa Monica-UCLA Medical Center and Orthopaedic Hospital, Resnick Neuropsychiatric Hospital at UCLA, Mattel Children's Hospital UCLA, and the UCLA Medical Group with its wide-reaching system of primary-care and specialty-care offices throughout the region, UCLA Health System is among the most comprehensive and advanced healthcare systems in the world.

Navy Medicine is a global healthcare network of 63,000 Navy medical personnel around the world who provide high quality health care to more than one million eligible beneficiaries. Navy Medicine personnel deploy with Sailors and Marines worldwide, providing critical mission support aboard ship, in the air, under the sea and on the battlefield.

Los Angeles Navy Week is one of 21 Navy Weeks across the country this year. Navy Weeks are designed to show Americans the investment they make in their Navy and increase awareness in cities that do not have a significant Navy presence.

Lincoln Sailors Visit Downtown Disneyland

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Jerine Lee, USS Abraham Lincoln Public Affairs

ANAHEIM, Calf. (NNS) -- The happiest place in the world just got happier as Sailors of USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) visit Downtown Disney to enjoy the Navy band's performance, the attractions and the support from locals and tourists in celebration of the 2011 L.A. Navy Week, July 27.

Visiting Downtown Disney gave Lincoln Sailors an opportunity to express their gratitude for the patriotism from all civilians. Sailors had the opportunity to shop for souvenirs, eat at hot-spots such as the 'House of Blues' and listen to local bands.

"I think it's great that the Sailors are out here and having some well-deserved relaxation and fun," said Walter Prescott, a fellow Los Angeles native visiting the sites of Downtown Disney. "I am so thankful for their service and hope they enjoy their time in the city."

The Navy Region Southwest Show-band performed songs in support of L.A. Navy Week and to boost morale for the audience.

"I love performing during Navy Weeks because it gives us an opportunity to bring something to civilians, and those who have friends and family in the service," said Musician 2nd Class Heather Downing, a baritone saxophone player, piccolo player and singer for the Navy Region Southwest Show-band. "It's even better when we boost morale for other Sailors. Performing is our way of saying thank you."

The band was great and I had a really great time," said Cryptologic Specialist (Technical) 1st Class Darryl Hitchcock. "We are in a great place with great people, celebrating together."

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

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

Participating in L.A. Navy Week 2011 are USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72), guided-missile cruiser USS Princeton (CG 59), guided-missile destroyer USS Chafee (DDG 90), mine countermeasures ship USS Champion (MCM 4), Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 2, and personnel from Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 9, Maritime Expeditionary Security Group (MESG) 31, Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron (MSRON) 3 and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit 1.

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

For more information and a schedule of L.A. Navy Week 2011 events, visit www.navyweek.org/losangeles2011.

USNS Comfort Brings Continuing Promise to Costa Rica

By Senior Airman Kasey Close, Continuing Promise 2011 Public Affairs

PUNTARENAS, Costa Rica (NNS) -- Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Comfort (T-AH 20) arrived in Puntarenas, Costa Rica, July 28 for its eighth of nine mission stops during Continuing Promise 2011 (CP11).

CP11 personnel will have a few days of liberty before beginning 10 days of medical, dental, veterinary and engineering services in the country.

CP11 is a five-month humanitarian civic assistance mission to the U.S. Southern Command area of responsibility. Comfort will visit nine countries in the Caribbean and Central and South America, working hand-in-hand with a variety of partner nations, governmental, and non-governmental organizations to train in civil-military operations while providing medical, dental, and veterinary care, and engineering support services to the countries visited.

The ship's crew of military and civilian personnel have triaged more than 54,671 patients throughout the entire mission to date.

"We are looking to see 500 to 600 patients at a medical site and the cases are going to be similar to the ones we've seen in the previous countries," said Cmdr. Patrick Young, from Arlington, Texas. "It's going to be a good visit."

The CP11 veterinary team has provided immunizations, surgeries, vitamins and deworming medication to 7,758 animals at 92 different sites throughout the mission so far.

"I'm looking forward to sharing knowledge with the host nation with the subject matter expert exchanges and the knowledge we'll receive while working with them," said Army Sgt. Heather Robinson, a veterinary technician from Champaign, Ill.

In addition to medical, dental, and veterinary care, Seabees from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 28 and Marines from the 8th Engineering Battalion, Camp Lejuene, N.C., will conduct two civic engineering projects in Costa Rica.

"One of things that I look forward to after the job is done is interacting with kids from the school we just improved for them," said Equipment Operator 2nd Class James Owen. "I hope we finish the scope of the projects early and are able to do something else to help improve the schools. It's an experience that I'll never forget."

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.

NMCB 133 Actions, Training Save Timorese Lives

By Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Bryan Clarke, Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 133 Public Affairs

DILI, Timor Leste (NNS) -- Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 133 Seabees were the first responders to a motorbike accident while returning from a liberty outing in the Bobonaro District of Timor-Leste, July 24.

When Constructionman Juan Moreiravelez, Construction Electrician Apprentice Rodney Peters and Equipment Operator 3rd Class Jose Alemanacevedo set out for a relaxing trip to one of the many beautiful recreation spots that Timor-Leste has to offer, they had no idea that the return trip would provide an opportunity to save the lives of two Timorese men.

The accident occurred as two local nationals traveling on the winding mountain roads turned a sharp corner and lost control of their motorbike in the loose gravel.

"These same guys had said hello to us while we were stopped on the side of the beach eating lunch" said Moreiravelez. "They were probably about 25-30 minutes ahead of us on the road. When we saw what happened, I told our driver to stop. I knew we had to help."

At the accident scene, the three Seabees quickly sprang into action, assessed the situation and rendered appropriate care. Alemanacevedo used his T-shirt as a bandage and the three took turns keeping one of the victims awake on the trip to the local hospital.

"I didn't even think; I just reacted," he said. "I remembered first aid classes from [our] Field Training Exercise (FTX) and stuff I got during Convoy Security Element (CSE) training."

Moreiravelez said, "Some time after the incident we looked at each other and realized that we were covered in blood. That is when it started to sink in."

"I'm proud of these guys," said Lt. Kevin Westbrook, the detail's officer-in-charge. "Their training certainly paid off, but I feel it was character that made the difference. When faced with a decision, these guys did the right thing. I think a lot of people would have just driven by assuming help was on the way."

NMCB 133 is currently on a nine-month deployment throughout the U.S. Pacific Command area of operations. Seabees from NMCB 133's Detail Timor Leste play a key role in executing the Navy's Maritime Strategy by developing multi-national interoperability through joint execution of humanitarian and civic action construction projects on the island nation of Timor Leste.

Wisconsin quickly fielded forces for Civil War

By 1st Lt. Brian Faltinson

Wisconsin National Guard historian

One hundred and fifty years after the start of the Civil War, it’s important to look back and see how Wisconsin responded to the conflict that changed our destiny.

Wisconsin had only been a state for 13 years in 1861, and retained much of its frontier character. The state population was approximately 776,000 — 45,000 in Milwaukee — and much of the northern part of the state was uninhabited.

State law called for a state militia consisting of “every able-bodied free white man between 18 and 45,” which in 1861 totaled about 130,000. However, Adjutant General Augustus Gaylord reported to Gov. Alexander Randall that Wisconsin fielded only 42 organized company-sized units totaling at most a few thousand men. These units lacked weapons, designed their own uniforms and largely operated as social clubs who marched on parade fields. It was not a force ready for war.

But as Southern states seceded from the Union following the election of Abraham Lincoln, Randall ordered Gaylord to prepare the militia. Randall also sought legislation allowing him to raise and outfit additional units. Wisconsin rallied to the cause following the bombardment of Fort Sumter in April of 1861 and began raising funds for local militia units. Fond du Lac raised $3,500 in a few days to purchase uniforms and equipment.

President Lincoln called for 75,000 Soldiers to serve a 90-day tour, with one regiment to come from Wisconsin. Randall asked “all patriotic citizens” to organize themselves into militia companies. The first unit Randall accepted for service was the Madison Guard, which became part of the 1st Wisconsin Infantry Regiment under the command of Col. John Starkweather.

The 1st Wisconsin reported to Camp Scott, now the site of the Wisconsin State Fair in West Allis. Camp Scott lacked almost everything needed to support a military unit, and the state provided gray uniforms but no weapons or equipment. Still, the regiment trained and improved its living conditions before departing for Washington in May with 794 men. The 1st Wisconsin fought a skirmish at Falling Waters in Virginia, suffering 20 wounded and one fatality — Pvt. George Drake, Wisconsin’s first Civil War casualty.

Randall continued raising troops even though Washington had yet to request them. The 2nd Wisconsin formed in April at the Madison Fairgrounds under Col. S. Park Coon, who renamed the site Camp Randall. Clad in gray uniforms, the unit’s 1,048 men shipped out in time to fight at the war’s first major battle, Bull Run. The 2nd Wisconsin was placed in a brigade, commanded by Col. William Tecumseh Sherman, which would soon be known as the Iron Brigade, one of the war’s most distinguished units.

The 3rd Wisconsin, consisting of men from northern and western Wisconsin, also experienced action during 1861. The unit trained in Fond du Lac before shipping to Harpers Ferry, Va., for a brief skirmish in July. In all, Gov. Randall organized 10 more infantry regiments, one cavalry regiment and eight artillery batteries. The 8th Infantry carried with it one of the war’s most famous mascots — an American bald eagle named Old Abe.

Thousands of Wisconsinites joined these units for three-year enlistments. While additional units were formed, those formed in 1861 were the backbone of the state’s war effort contribution.

Do you have any Civil War veterans in your family tree? Are you interested in learning more about how your community contributed to the Civil War? Are you looking for personal stories from the war? Try a search of these people, places and stories.

2011 editions of the "Law of War Deskbook" and the "Operational Law Handbook" are now available

The Judge Advocate General's Legal Center and School International & Operational Law Department

The documents linked below—The Law of War Deskbook, Law of War Documentary Supplement, and Operational Law Handbook—represent the broad range of international and operational law subjects taught to military judge advocates by the International and Operational Law Department of The Judge Advocate General’s Legal Center and School (TJAGLCS), Charlottesville, VA. The department provides basic and graduate courses in such diverse subjects as the law of war, the legal basis for the use of force among states, rules of engagement, status of forces and other international agreements, intelligence law, domestic support operations, detainee operations, interrogation operations, information operations, and comparative law. Issued by the department, these documents are not “official” publications, but are intended for instructional convenience for the military judge advocate student as well as an introduction to the law and to the primary sources of that law.

Selected articles, which can serve as additional resources for the military judge advocate student, will also be added regularly to this site.  Click to Visit.

Missing World War II Soldiers Indentified

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced Monday that the remains 12 U.S. servicemen, missing in action from World War II, have been identified and are being returned to their families for burial with full military honors.

They are Army Air Forces 1st Lt. Jack E. Volz, 21, of Indianapolis; 2nd Lt. Regis E. Dietz, 28, of Pittsburgh, Pa.; 2nd Lt. Edward J. Lake, 25, of Brooklyn, N.Y.; 2nd Lt. Martin P. Murray, 21, of Lowell, Mass.; 2nd Lt. William J. Shryock, 23, of Gary, Ind.; Tech. Sgt. Robert S. Wren, 25, of Seattle, Wash.; Tech. Sgt. Hollis R. Smith, 22, of Cove, Ark.; Staff Sgt. Berthold A. Chastain, 27, Dalton, Ga.; Staff Sgt. Clyde L. Green, 24, Erie, Pa.; Staff Sgt. Frederick E. Harris, 23, Medford, Mass.; Staff Sgt. Claude A. Ray, 24, Coffeyville, Kan.; and Staff Sgt. Claude G. Tyler, 24, Landover, Md. The remains representing the entire crew will be buried as a group, in a single casket, Aug. 4 in Arlington National Cemetery near Washington, D.C.  Eight of the airmen were identified and buried as individuals during previous ceremonies.  Shryock, Green and Harris were also individually identified and will be interred individually at Arlington on the same day as the group interment.

These 12 airmen were ordered to carry out a reconnaissance mission in their B-24D Liberator, taking off from an airfield near Port Moresby, New Guinea, on Oct. 27, 1943. Allied plans were being formulated to mount an attack on the Japanese redoubt at Rabaul, New Britain.  American strategists considered it critical to take Rabaul in order to support the eventual invasion of the Philippines.  The crew’s assigned area of reconnaissance was the nearby shipping lanes in the Bismarck Sea.  But during their mission, they were radioed to land at a friendly air strip nearby due to poor weather conditions.  The last radio transmission from the crew did not indicate their location, and in the following weeks, multiple searches over land and sea areas did not locate the aircraft.

Following World War II, the Army Graves Registration Service conducted investigations and searches for 43 missing airmen, including these airmen, in the area but concluded in June 1949 that they were unrecoverable.

In August 2003, a team from the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command (JPAC) received information on a crash site from a citizen in Papua New Guinea while they were investigating another case.  He also turned over an identification card from one of the crew members and reported that there were possible human remains at the site of the crash.  Twice in 2004 other JPAC teams attempted to visit the site but were unable to do so due to poor weather and hazardous conditions at the helicopter landing site.  Another team was able to successfully excavate the site from January to March 2007 where they found several identification tags from the B-24D crew as well as human remains.

Among other forensic identification tools and circumstantial evidence, scientists from JPAC and the Armed Forces DNA Identification Laboratory used mitochondrial DNA—which matched that of some of the crewmembers’ families—in the identification of their remains

Of the 16 million Americans who served in World War II, more than 400,000 died.  At the end of the war, the U.S. government was unable to recover and identify approximately 79,000 Americans.  Today, more than 73,000 are unaccounted-for from the conflict.

For additional information on the Defense Department’s mission to account for missing Americans, visit the DPMO website at http://www.dtic.mil/dpmo or call (703) 699-1169.   

Today in the Department of Defense, Friday, July 29, 2011

Secretary of Defense Leon E. Panetta visits U.S. Northern Command at Peterson Air Force Base, Colo.

Deputy Secretary of Defense William J. Lynn has no public or media events on his schedule.

NAS Jacksonville Hosts Boy Scouts

By Personnel Specialist 3rd Class Moses Mckelvey, Navy Region Southeast Public Affairs

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (NNS) -- The Naval Air Station (NAS) Jacksonville Environmental Department hosted 51 Cub Scouts and eight Boy Scouts at the Black Point Interpretive Center, July 25–29.

The five-day camp gave Scouts the opportunity to earn merit badges, improve leadership skills, and to learn more about nature. This year's focus was on Native-American customs and traditions.

"This is a nature camp that gives Boy Scouts the opportunity to get nature merit badges in a short period of time. They utilize the resources we have here to achieve within a five-day period what would take longer otherwise," said Angela Glass, NAS Jacksonville's assistant natural resource manager. "This is a great opportunity for the Scouts to see how the Navy plays a part in recycling and reusing natural resources. A lot of kids thought that naval bases consisted of just aircraft, concrete, and ships."

This was the fifth year Boy Scouts from the Northeastern region of Florida have come to NAS Jacksonville. While earning merit badges, the Boy Scouts improved their leadership skills by mentoring the younger Cub Scouts.

"This week gave me a chance to come out and have fun with my friends and also mentor the younger kids coming up through scouting," said Donnavan Krenert, a 1st class scout and den chief. "It will also help me out when I get ready to go to college."

Each merit badge earned by a Scout assists him in reaching the level of Eagle Scout. Upon reaching the rank of Eagle Scout, a Scout may submit a college scholarship application to the National Eagle Scout Association.

The camp featured various events throughout the week, including a visit from NAS Jacksonville's Fire Department, Smokey the Bear from the United Sates Forest Service, different types of sporting events, arts and crafts projects, and a nature walk.

"I am a third-generation Scout, and I've been in and around scouting for 51 years," said Cub Master Glynn Wood of Pack 360. "Scouting teaches these kids how to be patient, courageous and how do to the right things in life. The rest of the counselors and I just want to keep learning fun for the boys."

This Day in Naval History - July 27

From the Naval News Service

1953 - Korean War armistice signed at Panmunjon, Korea and Korean cease-fire went into effect at 10:00 PM.

On the anniversary of the war's end, read the best Korean War books written by the men who were there.

Obama, Thurman Commemorate Korean Armistice Anniversary

By Donna Miles

American Forces Press Service

On the anniversary of the war's end, read the best Korean War books written by the men who were there.

WASHINGTON, July 27, 2011 – As President Barack Obama commemorated the anniversary of the armistice agreement that established a demilitarized zone between North and South Korea and brought an end to fighting there, the top U.S. officer in Korea emphasized today the need for international cooperation to curb the North Korean aggression the armistice was drafted to prevent.

Speaking during armistice anniversary ceremonies along the demilitarized zone, Army Gen. James D. Thurman echoed the message Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Navy Adm. Mike Mullen delivered earlier this month in the South Korean capital of Seoul.

“We ask the global community to assist in convincing North Korea that its path to security and prosperity lies in the cessation of its provocative behavior, better relations with its neighbors and complete, irreversible denuclearization,” Thurman said.

Thurman offered his comments as a top North Korean diplomat visits New York at Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton’s invitation for talks aimed at restarting the stalled Six-Party Talks.

North Korean Vice Foreign Minister Kim Kae-gwan was slated to meet today with Stephen Bosworth, the Obama administration’s envoy for North Korea, at the United Nations.

Meanwhile, Obama marked the armistice anniversary recognizing the service members who fought for South Korea’s freedom in that conflict and continue to help protect it today.

The president declared today National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day, marking 58 years since the signing of what was thought to be a temporary measure to end open hostilities on the Korean peninsula until a peace treaty could be signed.

No peace treaty has ever been agreed to, however, leaving a tentative peace between North and South Korea that sometimes has erupted into conflict.

North Korea launched a torpedo attack in March 2010 that sunk the South Korean navy ship Cheonan and killed 46 sailors. In November, a North Korean artillery attack on Yeonpyeong Island killed four, including two South Korean service members.

Today, Obama took the opportunity to recognize the sacrifices of those who sacrificed after the Korean peninsula erupted in conflict on June 25, 1950, and continue to defend South Korea today.

“Today, we express our unending gratitude to all who fought and died in pursuit of freedom and democracy for the Korean peninsula,” he said in his proclamation.

“For three years, our armed forces fought to help keep Korea free, suffering bitter reversals and winning stunning victories before the Military Armistice Agreement at Panmunjon secured the border near the 38th Parallel,” he said. “Together, American service members and allied forces were part of a generation that, in the words inscribed at their memorial in Washington, defended ‘a country they never knew and a people they never met.’”

The veterans’ courage and sacrifice enabled South Korea to flourish, and the U.S.-South Korean alliance remains “stronger than ever” today, Obama said.

Together, the United States and South Korea continue to advance freedom and stability not only on the peninsula, but across East Asia and around the world, he said.

Obama paid special tribute to the tens of thousands of troops who died protecting South Korea and recognized those who have continued to guard the border since hostilities officially concluded. “Their selfless sacrifices have had a profound impact on the promotion of freedom across the globe,” he said.

The president emphasized the nation’s responsibility to care for these veterans and their families.

“On National Korean War Armistice Day, we recommit to supporting our venerable warriors and their families, and we pay our deepest respects to those who laid down their lives,” he said.

To Live and Fry in L.A.: Lincoln Sailors Compete in Cooking Contest

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Luciano Marano, USS Abraham Lincoln Public Affairs

LOS ANGELES (NNS) -- Culinary Specialists assigned to the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) competed against students from the Los Angeles Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in a cooking contest, July 26, as part of the Los Angeles Navy Week.

"I couldn't have picked a better team for this event," said Culinary Specialist 2nd Class (SW/AW) Jonathan Yates, the Lincoln team leader and a native of Greenville, N.C. "They're all great chefs, and that's important because in our world there's a big difference between cooks and chefs."

Each team was instructed to plan and prepare a breakfast menu to be judged by three randomly selected Sailors. Yates, as well as Culinary Specialist 3rd Class Jimmy Nguyen, Culinary Specialist 3rd Class (SW) William Felix, Culinary Specialist Seaman Adrian Flanery and Culinary Specialist Seaman Jeremy Pierre were voted the winners of the cook-off by a panel of their shipmates.

"Cooking has always been a tradition in my family," said Pierre, a native of New Orleans. "We're here today in our house; we couldn't let ourselves lose."

"It's a real pleasure to be here," said Le Cordon Bleu Chef Instructor Michael Shane, himself a prior enlisted Mess Management Specialist 2nd Class, which is what Culinary Specialist were called prior to the name change. "Our guys cook the same way as these [Navy] guys. There is definitely a chain of command in the kitchen; it's really the same job."

The challenge was broadcast live from the ship's galley as part of the daily "Good Day L.A." news program.

"This is the biggest cooking challenge I've ever been in," said Yates. "We're cooking against an actual culinary school, and a great school at that. Bring on Bobby Flay. I'm ready for a throw down!"

The winning menu consisted of spinach and feta cheese omelet, cheese and bacon breakfast potatoes, steak, a peach tart and orange/pineapple juice.

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

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

Participating in L.A. Navy Week 2011 are Lincoln, guided-missile cruiser USS Princeton (CG 59), guided-missile destroyer USS Chafee (DDG 90), mine countermeasures ship USS Champion (MCM 4), Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 2, and personnel from Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 9, Maritime Expeditionary Security Group (MESG) 31, Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron (MSRON) 3 and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit 1.

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

Command Ombudsman at NAS Whidbey Island Receives Dorothy Flatley Award

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Joan E. Jennings and Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Nardel Gervacio, Navy Public Affairs Support Element West, Det. Whidbey Island

OAK HARBOR, Wash. (NNS) -- A Naval Air Station (NAS) Whidbey Island command ombudsman received an award for superior performance during a surprise ceremony held at the Nor'Wester Fleet and Family Support Center (FFSC) at NAS Whidbey Island, July 26.

Dana Ledford, Commander, Electronic Attack Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet (COMVAQWINGPAC)command ombudsman was one to two ombudsmen Navywide to receive the 2010 Association of Naval Aviation (ANA) Outstanding Achievement Dorothy Flatley Award.

The Dorothy Flatley Award is given annually to one spouse from Naval Air Forces Pacific and one spouse from Naval Air Forces Atlantic for extraordinary inspirational support to Navy families for fostering excellent morale among squadron personnel and their dependents, especially during deployments and for promoting activities that benefit the spouse's command and other Navy and military personnel.

Ledford was named the winner due to her support of squadron families in which she focused on building strong morale among her fellow squadron personnel and their family members, especially during deployments.

"The Dorothy Flatley Award goes out to a spouse that has really supported the community, supported the spouses and family members and has gone above and beyond their command," said Command Master Chief (AW/SW) Michael W. Peach, of U.S. Navy Commander, Electronic Attack Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island.

Ledford has dedicated 13 years of service as an aviation command ombudsman, and 15 months as the (COMVAQWINGPAC) Ombudsman.

"Dana is well deserving of the recognition of the Dorothy Flatley Award," Peach said. "Her heart is taking care of the Sailors, their families and doing everything she can."

Among her accomplishments, Ledford has re-energized the NAS Whidbey Island Chief Petty Officer Spouse Association that brought in 42 senior enlisted spouses, worked on fundraisers for several local charities to include Navy and Marine Corps Relief Society, the American Red Cross, and Operation Homefront.

With tears running down her face, Dana accepted the award from Capt. Chris Shay, commodore, COMVAQWINGPAC and thanked the command ombudsmen in attendance.

"For many years it's been a great program. Mentorship means the world to me. Without mentors, what would we do?" asked Ledford. "I thank you for being part of my world and participating like you do. Keep mentoring those below you; without you we would not be here."

ANA is a support group for U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps, and U.S. Coast Guard's aviation forces. The squadron's functions are to support naval aviation and notify the public about the job of the men and women of naval aviation, and also to share in the camaraderie of being connected to naval aviation.

Intel Agency Director Cites Value of Shared Knowledge

By Jason Tudor

George C. Marshall European Center for Security Studies

GARMISCH-PARTENKIRCHEN, Germany, July 27, 2011 – A heightened level of shared knowledge, speed of information and sending professionals to the battlefield are crucial to future military endeavors, the U.S. military’s top intelligence officer said here yesterday.

Army Lt. Gen. Ronald L. Burgess Jr., director of the Defense Intelligence Agency, spoke to about 200 people at the Program on Terrorism and Security Studies and the Seminar on Transatlantic Civil Security at the George C. Marshall European Center for Security Studies.

Although sharing opportunities may have pitfalls, such as the events leading to the WikiLeaks publication of classified material, Burgess said, the value of sharing information transcends the temporary damage it may cause.

“You can’t let an event like that slow down what you know to be the goodness of what it is you’re trying to do,” he said. “While that happens, you need to fix what may have caused leaks like that and ensure you put safeguards in place that allow you to protect information. You can’t let it detract you from what you’re trying to do overall.”

Burgess said intelligence products are being shared to a degree he never thought possible, thanks to good relationships. And the time to build those relationships and the sharing opportunities they provide, he added, is before things fall apart.

“When crises occur,” the general said, “that is not the time to be building relationships.”

Speed of information also is paramount in his world, Burgess said, noting that the Internet, social media and “you name it” have raised that speed limit. He cited “the commander’s eternal quest for certainty” and the need for policy makers to move on events quickly as reasons his agency needs to get it right quickly.

“Everybody wants to know as much as they can. The speed of that system has taken on a whole new meaning,” he said. “Nobody wants to make decisions with only half of the puzzle.”

With 875 people from his agency deployed in theaters across the globe, Burgess cited a watershed change in business practices that pulled the experts out from inside the Washington, D.C., Beltway and put them side by side with the warfighters.

“Intelligence is just one line of information coming into a commander,” he explained. “As such, they deserve our best assessment of what is going to happen. They should demand it. We’ve had the most success when placed alongside other intelligence disciplines and agencies.”

Though his agency didn’t have an “upfront and central role” in finding and killing al-Qaida leader Osama bin Laden, it did play a part in the May 2 operation, Burgess said. The agency supported the element that went in to do the mission, he added, but “all source” intelligence was the key to success, along with the fusing and sharing of that intelligence information.

“Very seldom does single intelligence information by itself produce actual intelligence,” he said. “It does happen, but for the most part, it’s a fusing of all source intelligence, and that’s what happened with bin Laden. A lot of things came together.”

For his own part and the parts played by his team, Burgess was blunt. “We speak truth to power. … We’re not paid to have a point of view,” he said.

Burgess also talked about the importance both Marshall Center programs have to the warfighters and the world at large.

“It demonstrates with each class the value of shared knowledge,” he said. “At this very moment, our soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines are working side by side on the battlefield. We owe it to them to challenge ourselves.”

Lincoln Sailors Build New Homes during Navy Week LA

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Family Matters Blog: Blogger Meets ‘Extreme Makeover’ Star

By Elaine Sanchez

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, July 26, 2011 – I must admit I was a bit starstruck last week while visiting the set of a military-focused episode of ABC’s “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” in Fayetteville, N.C.

A few of my long-time home-designing favorites, including celebrities Ty Pennington and Paul DiMeo, were there in full force, putting their designing skills to the test to turn a modest 1,500-square-foot ranch-style home into a sprawling 5,000-square-foot complex in one short week.

The designers and more than 3,000 volunteers had joined together to build Barbara Marshall a new center for homeless female veterans called the Jubilee House. The 15-year Navy veteran established the center last year with her own funds to provide shelter and resources to female veterans in need.

After a week of round-the-clock construction, the house was picture perfect July 21 and ready for Marshall’s arrival. A crowd of well-wishers and volunteers gathered early, braving the oppressive heat to watch a deserving veteran receive a new home.

By the time the limo pulled up, carrying Marshall and her family, we all were dripping with sweat and covered in dirt, stepping lightly to avoid the discarded water bottles scattered across the ground. But all that was forgotten as Marshall stepped out and faced the famous “Extreme Makeover” bus blocking her view of the house.

Surprise guest First Lady Michelle Obama stepped out of the bus to cheers and applause as the crowd began to chant: “Move that bus! Move that bus!”

The bus pulled away and Marshall’s jaw dropped as she took in her new home, complete with a porch, upstairs deck and immaculately landscaped lawn.

“When I saw Mrs. Obama and the new home, all I could think of was ‘Yay,’” she told me during an interview the next day. “I know that’s not that profound, but I said it in my heart and my mind and my spirit, and then I said, ‘Astounding. Help is here -- tremendous help.’”

This new and improved Jubilee House will enable Marshall to take in more female veterans than ever before, while also offering expanded resources to help them.

Marshall said it’s the least she can do for her fellow veterans. “A homeless woman has children -- brings with her homeless children,” she said. “I think that our nation is not prepared for that kind of legacy. We need to leave a good, positive legacy for our women vets and for their children.”

As I walked away from that interview and with familiar faces from TV all around, I realized I had just met the true star of the show.

The “Extreme Makeover” episode featuring Marshall is scheduled to air Oct. 21 on ABC.

National Guard, active duty Green Berets receive high honor from French Ambassador

Special Forces Soldiers from the 10th Special Forces Group and the 20th Special Forces Group are seen after they received the French Croix de la Valeur Militaire, roughly analagous to the Silver Star, during a private ceremony at the French Ambassador's Residence in Washington, D.C., on July 25, 2011, awarding the honor to five National Guard and one active duty Special Forces Soldiers. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Jim Greenhill)

Command Ombudsman at NAS Whidbey Island Receives Dorothy Flatley Award

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Joan E. Jennings and Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Nardel Gervacio, Navy Public Affairs Support Element West, Det. Whidbey Island

OAK HARBOR, Wash. (NNS) -- A Naval Air Station (NAS) Whidbey Island command ombudsman received an award for superior performance during a surprise ceremony held at the Nor'Wester Fleet and Family Support Center (FFSC) at NAS Whidbey Island, July 26.

Dana Ledford, Commander, Electronic Attack Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet (COMVAQWINGPAC)command ombudsman was one to two ombudsmen Navywide to receive the 2010 Association of Naval Aviation (ANA) Outstanding Achievement Dorothy Flatley Award.

The Dorothy Flatley Award is given annually to one spouse from Naval Air Forces Pacific and one spouse from Naval Air Forces Atlantic for extraordinary inspirational support to Navy families for fostering excellent morale among squadron personnel and their dependents, especially during deployments and for promoting activities that benefit the spouse's command and other Navy and military personnel.

Ledford was named the winner due to her support of squadron families in which she focused on building strong morale among her fellow squadron personnel and their family members, especially during deployments.

"The Dorothy Flatley Award goes out to a spouse that has really supported the community, supported the spouses and family members and has gone above and beyond their command," said Command Master Chief (AW/SW) Michael W. Peach, of U.S. Navy Commander, Electronic Attack Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island.

Ledford has dedicated 13 years of service as an aviation command ombudsman, and 15 months as the (COMVAQWINGPAC) Ombudsman.

"Dana is well deserving of the recognition of the Dorothy Flatley Award," Peach said. "Her heart is taking care of the Sailors, their families and doing everything she can."

Among her accomplishments, Ledford has re-energized the NAS Whidbey Island Chief Petty Officer Spouse Association that brought in 42 senior enlisted spouses, worked on fundraisers for several local charities to include Navy and Marine Corps Relief Society, the American Red Cross, and Operation Homefront.

With tears running down her face, Dana accepted the award from Capt. Chris Shay, commodore, COMVAQWINGPAC and thanked the command ombudsmen in attendance.

"For many years it's been a great program. Mentorship means the world to me. Without mentors, what would we do?" asked Ledford. "I thank you for being part of my world and participating like you do. Keep mentoring those below you; without you we would not be here."

ANA is a support group for U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps, and U.S. Coast Guard's aviation forces. The squadron's functions are to support naval aviation and notify the public about the job of the men and women of naval aviation, and also to share in the camaraderie of being connected to naval aviation.