General Officer Announcements

Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates announced today that the President has made the following nominations:

Marine Corps Col. Charles G. Chiarotti has been nominated for appointment to the rank of brigadier general.  Chiarotti is currently serving as the chief of staff, J-4, U.S. Central Command, MacDill Air Force Base, Fla.

Marine Corps Col. David W. Coffman has been nominated for appointment to the rank of brigadier general.  Coffman is currently serving as the commanding officer, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, Camp Pendleton, Calif.

Marine Corps Col. Thomas A. Gorry has been nominated for appointment to the rank of brigadier general.  Gorry is currently serving as the director, Marine Corps Command and Staff College, Quantico, Va.

Marine Corps Col. Paul J. Kennedy has been nominated for appointment to the rank of brigadier general.  Kennedy is currently serving as the commanding officer, 2d Marine Regiment, Camp Lejeune, N.C.

Marine Corps Col. Joaquin F. Malavet has been nominated for appointment to the rank of brigadier general.  Malavet is currently serving as the branch chief, APX, Department of Aviation, Headquarters, Marine Corps, Washington, D.C.

Marine Corps Col. Niel E. Nelson has been nominated for appointment to the rank of brigadier general.  Nelson is currently serving as the executive assistant to the deputy commandant for installations and logistics, Headquarters, Marine Corps, Washington, D.C.

Marine Corps Col. Loretta E. Reynolds has been nominated for appointment to the rank of brigadier general.  Reynolds is currently serving as the commanding officer, I Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, Camp Pendleton, Calif.

Marine Corps Col. Russell A. C. Sanborn has been nominated for appointment to the rank of brigadier general.  Sanborn is currently serving as the assistant wing commander, 2d Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd), Cherry Point, N.C.

Marine Corps Col. George W. Smith Jr. has been nominated for appointment to the rank of brigadier general.  Smith is currently serving as the military assistant to the commandant of the Marine Corps, Washington, D.C.

Marine Corps Col. Craig Q. Timberlake has been nominated for appointment to the rank of brigadier general.  Timberlake is currently serving as the chief of staff, III Marine Expeditionary Force, Okinawa, Japan.

Marine Corps Col. Mark R. Wise has been nominated for appointment to the rank of brigadier general.  Wise is currently serving as the command aviations officer, Office of the Deputy Commandant for Aviation, Washington, D.C.

Marine Corps Col. Daniel D. Yoo has been nominated for appointment to the rank of brigadier general.  Yoo is currently serving as the fellows council on foreign relations, Garden City, N.Y.

75-year-old man awarded Silver Lifesaving Medal

Posted by: Christopher Lagan

Written by Petty Officer 2nd Class Lauren Jorgensen, Ninth Coast Guard District Public Affairs

Edward Fillingham, a 75-year-old man suffering from Parkinson’s disease, didn’t have a plan when he sprung into action on a chilly day in April 2009 and rescued two men and a woman minutes away from drowning in a frigid harbor of Lake Ontario near his waterfront home. His selfless act has earned him numerous awards, the respect and admiration of response personnel, and now a U.S. Coast Guard Silver Lifesaving Medal.

Fillingham was at his Henderson Harbor, N.Y., home with his wife, Patricia, and daughter, Beth McMahon, when the trio first heard desperate cries for help from three people frantically struggling to climb on top of their capsized pedal boat about 500 yards from shore.

Patricia immediately dialed 911, but her husband knew they didn’t have much time in the 41-degree water.

“I couldn’t leave them out there,” said Fillingham. “They were terrified. I had to try something.”

McMahon fetched the family’s canoe for her father, who didn’t hesitate to jump in alone and paddle through the choppy harbor to the boaters.

Fillingham said he grew concerned as he approached the trio.

“I had no plan,” he said. “I had no idea what I was going to do when I got there.”

Even without a plan, he managed to guide the three of them to the sides of his canoe, where he instructed them to hold on as he clutched the woman with one hand and used his other hand to paddle back to shore, fearing that his own boat would capsize if they tried to climb in.

Fillingham was forced to stop on the way back in, once grabbing one of the men by the neck to keep him from sinking and several times to keep the woman afloat.

“I could feel her hand slipping away,” he said. “She wanted to give up. I kept telling her, ‘Don’t do that.’”

Fillingham eventually made it to shore where emergency medical technicians were waiting, and upon evaluating the men and woman, found that their core body temperatures had plummeted life-threateningly low to about 91 degrees F.

“That cold water almost did the job on them,” Fillingham said, adding that they couldn’t have survived much longer, and he’s sure they would have died if he had not been there.

Fillingham is still not sure how he mustered the strength to drag himself, a canoe and three soaking wet adults roughly 1,500 feet to safety, he said, but he believes a sudden rush of adrenaline may have given him the ability.

Coast Guardsmen at Station Oswego, N.Y., watched in awe as they listened to the details of Fillingham’s story during his award ceremony earlier this week.

“It’s not every day that you get to thank a hero,” said Rear Adm. Mike Parks, commander of the Ninth Coast Guard District, before presenting Fillingham with the Silver Lifesaving Medal.

But Fillingham said he doesn’t consider himself a hero and can’t believe how much attention and recognition he’s received as a result of his actions that day.

“I didn’t save them for rewards. The reward I got … I can call and talk to them tonight. That’s the reward I got.”

Navy Announces 2011 Calendar for America

From Navy Office of Community Outreach

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The Navy announced the 2011 Calendar for America, which sets forth nearly 100 large-scale Navy outreach events across America, Jan. 20.

The calendar includes 21 Navy weeks in cities across the country that do not have a significant everyday Navy presence.

The calendar also includes traditional fleet weeks in locations such as New York and San Francisco; significant diversity events in which the Navy will participate; Centennial of Naval Aviation commemorative events; Blue Angels air shows; ship commissioning ceremonies; and large-scale recruiting events.

Communicating the Navy's mission and contribution to national security throughout the country is a particular and unique challenge because the Navy's primary fleet concentration areas are on both coasts. All events on the calendar are designed to show Americans the investment they have made in their Navy, help them gain a better understanding of the Navy's critical mission and showcase the Navy's talented people.

"Our outreach throughout the year helps all Americans better understand the value of their Navy and the service of the men and women of our country who are Sailors. The events we support and the relationships we build with communities across the nation allow us to share the story of America's Navy in a meaningful and memorable way," said Adm. Gary Roughead, chief of naval operations.

For more information, see NAVADMIN 018/11 or visit www.navy.mil/navco/.

For more news from Navy Office of Community Outreach, visit www.navy.mil/local/navco/.

Oshkosh Guard unit receives first FMTV produced by Oshkosh Defense

Wisconsin National Guard Public Affairs Office

The first production medium-sized military truck to roll off the assembly lines at Oshkosh Defense was delivered just down the road to a Wisconsin Army National Guard transportation unit.

The 5-ton cargo truck, part of the Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles (FMTV), has been in the military fleet for several years. However, this is the first of more than 18,000 such vehicles to be manufactured at Oshkosh Defense, which also makes several other tactical vehicles for the military.

"It's a special honor to field our first FMTV truck with the men and women of our home state and hometown National Guard," said Mike Ivy, vice president and general manager of Army Programs for Oshkosh Defense. "The 1157th has a proud tradition of service both in the U.S. and in operational theaters, and relies heavily on the FMTV to accomplish its missions."

Col. Kenneth Koon, representing the Wisconsin Army National Guard, said the new FMTV gives the 1157th, and eventually the rest of the Wisconsin National Guard, the opportunity to train as it fights.

"This will help with training for future missions and to be ready when called," Koon said. "Trucks like these will increase their safety."

That's because this version of the FMTV is "armor-ready" - meaning that the metal hull is designed to hold additional armor plating. Other features, such as a fold-back gunner's seat and rear-hinged cab doors that open to the front of the vehicle, compliments the vehicle's tactical applications.

According to Col. Masaki Kuwana, chief of the Army National Guard's Materiel Programs Division, the Army National Guard will receive the lion's share - approximately 13,000 trucks - of the FMTVs Oshkosh Defense will produce in the coming years.

"It's fitting that the first unit to be equipped [with the new FMTV] is the 1157th Transportation Company," Kuwana said. George Mansfield, senior director for the Medium Tactical Vehicle program at Oshkosh Defense, agreed.

"After months of hard work, we get to put the first Oshkosh FMTV in the hands of men and women who will use it," he said.

There are 17 FMTV models ranging from 2.5 tons to 10 tons. At least 80 percent of vehicle parts are common to all FMTV models, streamlining maintenance and providing cost efficiency.

Ivy mentioned that Oshkosh Defense employs many military veterans as well as current Guard and Reserve members - including 1157th Transportation Company members Sgt. Dustin Louden and Sgt. Tiffany Gorges.

"There's a level of pride," Gorges, a vehicle painter at Oshkosh Defense and a squad leader in a truck platoon with the 1157th, said of the fielding. "I know what goes into making this truck. I remember painting the prototype."

Louden, who works as a yardman at Oshkosh Defense and as a dispatcher with the 1157th, said his military background provides a different perspective.

"I know where these trucks are going," he said.

This particular truck will be assigned to the 1157th's headquarters platoon.

Gunston Hall Departs Mayport for Amphibious-Southern Partnership Station 2011

From Southern Partnership Station 2011 Public Affairs

MAYPORT, Fla. (NNS) -- Dock Landing Ship USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44), along with an embarked U.S. Marine Corps Theater Security Cooperation Task Force (SCTF) and a U.S. Navy staff element from Destroyer Squadron 40, departed Naval Station Mayport, Fla., Jan. 16.

The ship will begin a two-month deployment to the U.S. Southern Command (USSOUTHCOM) area of responsibility (AOR) in support of Amphibious-Southern Partnership Station (A-SPS) 2011.

Southern Partner Station is an annual deployment of various specialty platforms to the USSOUTHCOM area of responsibility (AOR) in the Caribbean and Latin America. The mission's primary goal is information sharing with navies, coast guards, and civilian services throughout the region.

Commander, Destroyer Squadron Four Zero, Capt. Brian Nickerson, will serve as the mission commander for A-SPS 11 while the Sailors and Marines conduct subject matter expert exchanges (SMEEs) with partner nations in the region. During the deployment, Gunston Hall will visit Belize, Columbia, Guatemala and Jamaica.

"This is a great opportunity to exchange information and build cooperative partnerships," said Capt. John Meier, USS Gunston Hall commanding officer. "Although we're a fighting force, we're also a force for goodwill."

Led by Lt. Col. Paul Baker, TSCTF is made up of elements from Marine Wing Support Squadron 271, Second Tank Battalion, Second Assault Amphibian Battalion and Second Marine Expeditionary Force. The Marines will conduct SMEEs, which allow for joint operations between partner nations, including live fire exercises, search and rescue, martial arts, land navigation and combat marksmanship, in order to develop regional, civil and maritime services' capabilities to respond to a variety of maritime missions while exercising lines of communication between regional security services.

Gunston Hall is also prepared to provide "first-responder" capabilities in the event of any disaster relief response while deployed to the region.

In addition, Gunston Hall will be transporting 89 Project Handclasp pallets, as well as gifts donated by various non-governmental organizations including Loving Hugs, Inc., Give a Kid a Backpack and Samaritan's Feet.

"These gifts will be given out to children as they come in contact with Marines and Sailors," said Cmdr. Lewis Preddy, Commander, U.S. Fourth Fleet Project Handclasp coordinator.

"This (mission) is something that I am really looking forward to, and it will be very rewarding," said Logistics Specialist 3rd Class Johan Sanchez, a Gunston Hall supply petty officer who was born and raised in Colombia. "I am happy to be going back to Colombia, my home country, and giving these things to the people and children who need them."

Project Handclasp is a U.S. Navy program that accepts and transports educational, humanitarian and goodwill material on a space-available basis aboard U.S. Navy ships for distribution to foreign nations.

"This is a great thing that we don't always get to do; it gives Marines a chance to help shape the kids of these countries," said Lt. Col. Paul Baker, TSCTF commander. "Maybe 20 years from now those children will look back and remember this."

U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command (COMUSNAVSO) is the naval component command for USSOUTHCOM and is responsible for all naval personnel and assets in the AOR. COMUSNAVSO conducts a variety of missions in support of the U.S. maritime strategy, including security cooperation, relationship building, humanitarian assistance and disaster response, community relations, and counter-illicit trafficking operations.

For more information, visit www.public.navy.mil/comusnavso-c4f, on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/SoutherPartnershipStation, or on Twitter at www.twitter.com/NAVSOUS4THFLT.

For more news from Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command, visit www.navy.mil/local/cusns/.

Congressional Delegation Tours USS Cleveland

By Aviation Boatswain’s Mate Airman William T. Harcourt, USS Cleveland Public Affairs

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- A congressional delegation led by Rep. Mark S. Critz (D-Pa.) paid a visit to the amphibious transport landing dock ship USS Cleveland (LPD-7) Jan. 13.

The purpose of the trip was to experience, first-hand, aspects of the U.S. Naval and Marine Corps forces and to expand his knowledge of the U.S. Marine Corps and Naval amphibious operations, programs, personnel and readiness issues.

To gain a better understanding of the Operational Maneuver From The Sea (OMFTS) concept, Critz and his delegation took a full tour of Cleveland's operational spaces, led by USS Cleveland Commanding Officer Capt. S. Robert Roth. The delegation was able to get a first-hand look at the ship's well-deck, flight deck, bridge, medical spaces, and Combat Information Center.

Critz also had the opportunity to dine with a few of his constituents, members of the ship's crew from Pennsylvania.

"It was truly an honor," said Cryptologic Technician Technical 2nd Class Joshua Ritter, one of the three Sailors who had lunch with the congressman. "…to have [him] take time out of his schedule to show us on the front line that people really do appreciate our sacrifices and efforts."

For more news from Naval Surface Forces, visit www.navy.mil/local/cnsp/.

USS Halsey Sailor Missing at Sea

From U.S. 5th Fleet Public Affairs

GULF OF OMAN (NNS) -- U.S. and British units are searching for a Sailor from USS Halsey (DDG 97) who went missing while the ship was conducting operations in the Gulf of Oman Jan. 18.

The Sailor did not report to watch and after a search of the ship, man overboard was called away.

Helicopters from Halsey, USNS Rainier (T-AOE 7), and the Royal Navy's HMS Cumberland (F85) are currently conducting search and rescue operations to find the missing Sailor. F/A-18 Hornets from the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) and a P-3 maritime patrol aircraft have also been involved in the search.

The Sailor's name is being withheld while the search is ongoing.

For more news from Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/5th Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/local/cusnc/.

Charities Provide Relief to Bethesda's Wounded, Families

By Sarah Fortney, National Naval Medical Center Public Affairs

BETHESDA, Md. (NNS) -- The National Naval Medical Center (NNMC) treated more than 500 combat-injured service members, each accompanied by an average of three family members, in 2010.

As many of the family members leave their jobs to be with their wounded service member, NNMC staff works with several charitable groups to ensure the needs of the families, as well as the wounded, ill and injured are met.

The charitable groups provide a variety of goods and services, ranging from clothing, plane tickets, medical assistance and financial grants.

"These families aren't prepared, and when they find out [their loved one has been injured], they drop everything immediately, some of these families are here for months, and that's just here, then they could move on to another facility and be there for months," said Dawn Van Skike, of the Semper Fi Fund. "The wounded, ill and injured are more motivated if their family members are here. Our organization helps with that."

The Semper Fi Fund is just one of the many organizations helping to provide relief for troops and their family members.

"If there's a need, it's immediately addressed and handled. Our goal is to help with that need," said Van Skike. Be it medical or non-medical assistance, "Our goal is to meet and get to know all the families and let them know we're here for them."

The Semper Fi Fund provides relief to service members, including transportation assistance, home grants, adaptive housing support, education and career transition assistance. Since its establishment in 2004, the 501-1 (c) (3) organization has given out more than 24,000 grants, totaling more than $44 million.

The Inpatient Warrior and Family Liaison Office (IWFLO) works with a number of organizations throughout the year to ensure needs are met, said Chief Brian O'Keefe, IWFLO officer. Some of the organizations O'Keefe works with include the Aleethia Foundation, the Wounded Warrior Project, Armed Forces Foundation, Soldier's Angels, United Services Organization, the Fisher House, the Oakleaf Club of Greater Washington, D.C., and many others.

"I think we've done just about everything we could come up with, from boarding pets to helping families from losing their homes. The only problem we can't solve is the one that we don't know about," said O'Keefe.

Navy Safe Harbor also works with benevolent organizations to ensure resources are provided to patients and their loved ones. Since its establishment in 2005, the Navy-run program provides one to two non-medical care managers at all the major medical treatment facilities throughout the country, providing non-medical care management.

"We're going to be with you from the time you enter those doors, throughout the time you're in the Navy," said Cmdr. Shauna Hamilton, non-medical care manager for Navy Safe Harbor. "They'll be getting a phone call, letting them know that everything is taken care of so all they need to do is focus on taking care of their loved one, and we'll make that as easy as possible."

Benevolent organizations, and those that assist with coordination of their efforts, work quickly and efficiently, said Hamilton. Additionally, the Wounded Warrior Battalion East — Bethesda Detachment also works with benevolent organizations, providing for the wounded, ill and injured Marines at the hospital, said Lt. Col. Michael Wall, detachment officer-in-charge.

"[Charitable groups] do an awesome job helping the wounded, ill and injured warriors and their family members," said Wall. "They help the family members whether they're [organizing] a dinner, assisting them in shipping [belongings] back to their home address...We're very grateful for the support and everything they do."

Marine Corps Liaison Office (MCLO) Events/Charitable Organizations Coordinator Sgt. Joe Bradley added that all groups are afforded an opportunity to assist. The MCLO also works with numerous community organizations to coordinate events for the Wounded Warriors.

"We want to be able to maximize the benefits for the Marines," said Bradley.

"We really do grow a relationship with these families," said Van Skike. "We've become such a part of their family in the time of crisis...you bond."

Semper Fi Fund is also one of the many organizations that follow up with families to check on their well-being, as the wounded, ill and injured return home to face a new set of challenges.

Robin Dawes, whose husband, a Marine, was injured in Afghanistan in 2007, said she feels the hospital staff and members of these charitable organizations have become like family. After her husband, Gary, was injured, they spent about a month in the Intensive Care Unit at NNMC.

"It was a very emotional experience," said Dawes. "We continuously had to go back for surgeries...we're still coming here."

The IWFLO has been one of her main points of contact, said Dawes.

"They always make sure we have a place to stay, and everything we need," she added.

Like many families with an injured loved one, bills at home can seem out of hand.

Dawes said the Navy Relief Society stepped in to lend her family a hand.

"We have people who come to us simply to see how we are doing," said Dawes. "When you've been doing this for three and a half years, it's nice to know who's there and who you can count on and that you won't be forgotten. The last thing you want to worry about is financial [issues]. You have to concentrate on getting your significant other better."

All organizations, including federally-approved and private organizations, have an opportunity to donate their goods and services to the wounded, ill and injured and their family members. We are looking forward to expanding our relationship with benevolent organizations as we merge with the Walter Reed Army Medical Center to create a world class medical treatment facility for beneficiaries and their families. For more details, contact the IWFLO at 301-319-6805.

For more news from National Naval Medical Center, visit www.navy.mil/local/nnmc/.

Frank Cable Takes Virginia-Class Submarine Alongside

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Gabrielle Blake, USS Frank Cable (AS 40) Public Affairs

POLARIS POINT, Guam (NNS) -- For the first time ever, the Virginia-class attack submarine USS Hawaii (SSN 776) moored outboard the submarine tender USS Frank Cable (AS 40) Dec. 28 in Guam.

"The Virginia class is the nation's newest fast attack submarine," said Cmdr. Michael Dufek, repair officer aboard Frank Cable.

Hawaii is the first Virginia-class attack submarine to deploy to the Western Pacific and the first in Navy's history to be moored alongside a submarine tender.

Cmdr. Bruce Deshotel, Frank Cable's executive officer, said this accomplishment is a first for Frank Cable, the Navy and the Virginia-class program office.

"Being able to moor this new class of ships alongside is critical for the Cable to be able to provide necessary support to this class of ship under any and all conditions in Guam or any foreign port in the Western Pacific," said Deshotel.

In preparation for the new class of submarines, Frank Cable conducted a thorough review of new maintenance items associated with this ship class and also validated parts allowances and special tooling needs for the class of ships.

Dufek said Frank Cable, Hawaii and the Naval Sea Systems Command came together to arrange a configuration that would allow safe mooring without risk of injury or damage to the submarine, as well as the tender.

"We were able to complete that evolution safely and provide her the support she needed so she could get back to her mission," said Dufek.

Capt. Thomas Stanley, Frank Cable's commanding officer, said in order to accomplish the tender's mission and support the mission of the submarine force, Frank Cable needs to have the capability to tend and moor every type of submarine in the U.S. Navy.

Frank Cable conducts maintenance and support of submarines and surface vessels deployed in the U.S. 7th Fleet Area of Responsibility.

For more news from USS Frank Cable (AS 40), visit www.navy.mil/local/as40/.

Search + Rescue = Math

Posted by: LT Connie Braesch

Just how does the Coast Guard find a person in the vast ocean with not much more to go on than a radio mayday call? It takes training, experience and… math.

Recently, search and rescue coordinators in the 17th Coast Guard District ventured out of the radio room and into a sixth-grade class to show students the importance of math when conducting search and rescue.

Between calculating drift, developing search patterns and predicting time on scene, Lt. j.g. Crystal Hudak and Operations Specialist 1st Class Sean Terry know first-hand how much math is involved in SAR planning. They talked to students at Dzantik’i Heeni Middle School in Juneau, Alaska, about how calculations and probability are used in almost every aspect of rescuing a person in distress.

Terry used the example of a vessel that is taking on water. He explained to the class how he first estimates the gallons-per-minute the vessel is flooding and then determines how much the boat can handle before it sinks. He then calculates how much time it will take Coast Guard vessels, airplanes or helicopters to arrive on scene to assist the mariners. These two calculations help him predict whether the rescuers will be looking for the boat or people in the water.

“Demonstrating the importance of math and how to apply it to real life can inspire students to appreciate the subject more,” said Lt. Cmdr. Mia Dutcher, 17th District Command Center Chief. “This holds especially true when it can directly lead to saving a person’s life.”

Congressional Commission Studies Women in Combat

By Karen Parrish

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Jan. 14, 2011 – The Defense Department will review the recommendations of a congressional commission studying the role of women in combat when the group’s report is complete, a DOD official said today.

Congress established the Military Leadership Diversity Commission as part of the 2009 National Defense Authorization Act. The commission’s task is to evaluate and assess policies that provide opportunities for promotion and advancement of minority members of the armed forces.

The commission’s report, expected in March, will include the findings and conclusions of the commission as well as its recommendations for improving diversity within the armed forces.

“DOD will look at the recommendation and go from there,” Pentagon spokesman Marine Corps Col. Dave Lapan said. “We’ll see what the nature of the report is when it’s done.”

Congress repealed the combat exclusion laws in the January 1994 National Defense Authorization Act, but requires the services to submit proposed changes to existing assignment policy to Congress for review, Lapan said.

“For example, when the Navy recently changed its policy to enable women to serve on submarines, that would go through that process,” he said. “So the Navy would have to inform Congress it was going to make a change.”

The Marine Corps also triggered congressional review when it opened some intelligence positions to women, Lapan said, but female Marines serving on engagement teams in Afghanistan are in line with department policy on women’s assignments.

Lapan said the U.S. military currently prohibits women from serving in combat units below the brigade level. The Marine women on engagement teams are not assigned to combat units, but are augmenting them for a specific mission, he said.

“Part of the reason to do that was because the infantry battalions that were out there didn’t have any women, because they couldn’t,” he explained.

Women make up 14.6 percent of the active duty military. By service, the percentage ranges from 7.5 percent in the Marine Corps to 19.2 percent in the Air Force, according to statistics compiled by the Women in Military Service for America Foundation.

Face of Defense: Soldier Earns Worldwide Competition Berth

By Army Pfc. Karina Paraoan

Alaska National Guard

WASHINGTON, Jan. 14, 2011 – An Alaska National Guardsman will compete in the figure bodybuilding competition at the Arnold Sports Festival in Columbus, Ohio, March 3-5.

The festival, founded by former California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, is billed as the nation’s largest multisport event and features competition in archery, boxing, amateur bodybuilding, cheerleading and dance, and other sports.

Army Staff Sgt. Diane Singh, an Alaska National Guard drug demand reduction noncommissioned officer, will compete in the amateur figure bodybuilding category. One way to qualify for the category is to be a nationally qualified bodybuilder, a qualification Singh met when she competed in the Emerald Cup amateur figure bodybuilding competition in Seattle on April 16.

“This competition is different [from] the others I have competed in, because everything I have done up to this point is going to culminate in this show,” Singh said. “Every show I have done so far has been a stepping stone and learning experience. For me to say that I’m competing in the Arnold is a dream come true.”

Along with a strenuous workout schedule, Singh said, her diet plan is a challenge. For the next few weeks, Singh is limited to eating only grilled chicken, fish or turkey with green vegetables, brown rice and sweet potatoes. Another key to staying healthy with her workout plan, she added, is to drink a lot of water.

“I have always been impressed with Staff Sergeant Singh’s enthusiasm before, during and after her competitions,” said Air Force Tech. Sgt. Jennifer Theulen, also an Alaska National Guard drug demand reduction NCO. “Even if she wins fifth place, her smile never disappears and she only has positive things to say about the experience.”

Singh has represented the Alaska National Guard for the past two years in various bodybuilding competitions in and out of state, including two nationwide events.

“Ever since I started competing, I’ve had so many soldiers ask me questions,” Singh said. “They’ve asked me questions about bodybuilding and what to eat. I’m always happy to help Guardsmen out, and I love sharing that information with them.”

Singh said she’ll continue to compete after the Arnold event, and plans to take part in the Alaska National Physique Committee State Championships on April 30.

“She has been a role model to the women in our office, as she is always sharing fitness regimens and techniques,” Theulen said.

Gates Consults With South Korea on North’s Provocations

By Jim Garamone

American Forces Press Service

SEOUL, South Korea, Jan. 14, 2011 – Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates visited South Korean leaders here today to demonstrate American solidarity against North Korean provocations.

North Korea sank the South Korean ship Cheonan in March, killing 46 sailors. In November, North Korea shelled the South Korean island of Yeongpeong, killing two civilians and two South Korean marines.

“We are all concerned about the tense situation on the peninsula caused by North Korea's continued belligerence and repeated provocations over the past few months," Gates said at the beginning of a meeting with Defense Minister Kim Kwan-jin.

During the meeting, Gates and Kim discussed South Korean-U.S. military coordination and consultations to deter future provocations.

Gates said diplomatic engagement is possible, starting with direct engagement between North Korea and South Korea, but only if “North Korea's actions show cause to believe that negotiations can be productive and conducted in good faith.”

Following the meeting with Kim, Gates traveled to the Blue House and met with South Korean President Lee Myung-bak. He spoke to both Kim and Lee about his meetings with Chinese and Japanese leaders.

Earlier in the week, Gates said a moratorium on nuclear research and testing and a moratorium on building intercontinental ballistic missiles would be examples of concrete steps North Korea could take. Only with these concrete steps, he added, could the Six-Party Talks -- with the United States, China, Russia, Japan, South Korea and North Korea -- resume.

“But the [North Korean] leadership must stop these dangerous provocations and take concrete steps to show that they will begin meeting international obligations," Gates said.

The Six-Party Talks began in 2003 after North Korea withdrew from the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty. In response to a United Nations Security Council presidential statement in April 2009 condemning a failed satellite launch, North Korea pulled out of the talks and announced it would resume its nuclear enrichment program.

Alaska crews deploy to safeguard fishing fleet

Posted by: LTJG Stephanie Young

As harsh winter weather causes Alaskans to pack up their boats until spring, the Alaskan crab and groundfish fleets brave fierce storms and icy temperatures in search of the big catch. As the fishing fleet gets underway, they can take comfort in the knowledge that Coast Guard search and rescue teams will be protecting them every step of the way.

Two rescue helicopters from Air Station Kodiak have been forward deployed to remote St. Paul Island, one of four volcanic islands located in the Bering Sea between the United States and Russia. With aircrews standing by on this 40-square-mile island, more than 270 miles from Dutch Harbor, Alaska, they are able to greatly reduce the response distance to a possible emergency during the winter fishing season.

“Winter in the Bering Sea is a combination of the harshest weather and most activity,” said Capt. Bark Lloyd, chief of response for the 17th Coast Guard District, “In the case of an emergency, critical response hours are significantly reduced by forward deploying aircraft to St. Paul.”

In addition to the aircrews, the fishing fleet will be protected by a Coast Guard cutter carrying a rescue helicopter of its own.

Forward deployment of these assets is the culmination of months of preparation by Marine Safety Detachment Kodiak and Unalaska. These marine safety detachments conducted safety training with the crab fleets as well as voluntary fishing vessel safety exams.

“The Coast Guard continues to vigorously stress the importance of exercising good maritime practices and compliance with safety standards,” said Capt. Adam Shaw, chief of prevention for the 17th Coast Guard District. “The dockside safety examination services offered to commercial fishing vessel owners and operators are especially relevant given our extreme maritime environment and geographic remoteness.”

Despite the best efforts of the Coast Guard, the cooperation of local partners and fishing fleet itself is critical to mission success. To strengthen vital safety and enforcement partnerships in Alaska, the Coast Guard hosts bi-weekly teleconferences with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the Alaska Department of Fish and Game and the Alaska Wildlife Troopers.

With crab pots safely stacked on deck and the fleet out in droves, Coast Guard crews standby ready to protect and look after Alaska’s fishing fleet.

Coast Guard update to the Surface Naval Association

Posted by: CDR Glynn Smith

Yesterday, Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp provided a Coast Guard update to the 23rd annual symposium of the Surface Naval Association.

In his speech, Adm. Papp provided attendees a snapshot of the Coast Guard’s major cutter fleet and efforts to recapitalize these ships.  “We anticipate delivery of the first three [Fast Response Cutter] hulls by the end of calendar year 2011,” said Adm. Papp, adding, “The acquisition project to replace 12 high endurance cutters [with new National Security Cutters] is well underway.

While discussing his principle of Steady the Service, Adm. Papp said, “Rather than proposing additional change, I determined that our best course of action would be to complete these [modernization] initiatives, and seek to properly resource our new post 9-11 responsibilities.”  Adm. Papp went on to outline the other three of his four principles: Honor our Profession, Strengthen our Partnerships, and Respect our Shipmates.

This year’s Surface Navy Association symposium theme is, “Surface Naval Forces: Relevant Capabilities For A Challenging Future.”

Wisconsin Army Guard one of nation's top two Guard organizations

Wisconsin National Guard Public Affairs Office

The Wisconsin Army National Guard is in the running to be named the overall winner in the Army National Guard category of the Army Communities of Excellence Awards competition.

Wisconsin and West Virginia are the two Army National Guard organizations vying for the top honor this year. The runner-up will receive the

Gold First Place

award. The Department of the Army is expected to announce the Army National Guard winner sometime in March.

According to Lt. Col. Robert Phillips, executive officer for the Army National Guard chief of staff, the initial selection process took place in late August 2010. The National Guard Bureau sent a site visit team to Wisconsin's Joint Force Headquarters Nov. 4-8, 2010, and the judging board rendered its decisions Nov. 15-17.

The ACOE Awards follow a 12-month evaluation in which Army, National Guard and Reserve installations are judged against Army priorities and the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Program criteria. Participants are not judged against each other. The assessment considers the overall quality of military environment, facilities and services.

"The most important benefits of the ACOE program are the eventual improvements made as a result of the annual feedback reports," Phillips said in a Jan. 11 e-mail.

Brig. Gen. Mark Anderson, commander of the Wisconsin Army National Guard, explained that the ACOE program provides Wisconsin Army Guard leadership with an understanding of the organization's direction. The ACOE system of processes allows for a critical examination of the organization, he added, which leads to a better organization overall by reinforcing the ability to assess and improve.

Phillips agreed.

"In the spirit of continuous performance and process improvement, we emphasize that everyone is a winner," he said. "By documenting individual organizational management practices, states use measureable performance results to continually and systematically improve their processes and customer focus."

This can be seen in recent top ACOE finishes for the Wisconsin Army National Guard. In 2010 Wisconsin received a

Silver Second Place

finish - sixth in the Army National Guard. The state earned a

Gold Third Place

award in 2009 (fourth overall), and a Silver

1st Place

award (fifth overall) in 2008.

MMA Brawlers Invade Navy, Air Force Bases on Guam

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Peter Lewis, Joint Region Marianas Public Affairs

SANTA RITA, Guam (NNS) -- Seven mixed martial arts (MMA) superstars interacted with service members, dependents and Department of Defense employees during autograph signings and interactive exhibitions on U.S. Naval Base Guam (NBG) and Andersen Air Force Base (AFB) Jan. 10-11.

Nate "Rock" Quarry, "Filthy" Tom Lawalor, Dustin Poirier, Joao Assis, Eben Kaneshiro, Kurt Shrout, and legendary coach Eddie Dahlen were on hand at the Navy Exchange and Single Sailor Sanctuary on NBG Jan 10 to take-on all visitors during a meet-and-greet session.

"I'm a huge MMA fan, and I was so excited to come out here and meet all of these great fighters," said Fire Control Technician 1st Class (SS) Donald Medlin, of Submarine Squadron 15. "It's awesome to know that they support the military and were willing to travel all the way to Guam to show it!"

After signing autographs, taking photos, and giving thanks to service members for all they do, the fighters were off to an interactive exhibition at the Charles King Fitness Center on NBG.

Hundreds of people showed up to watch the grapplers demonstrate the basics of MMA fighting. Several lucky amateurs were also able to receive one-on-one instruction from the professional martial artists.

"I've been on-island for eight months, and that was by far the most fun I've had," said Construction Mechanic 3rd Class (SCW) Justin Bennett, of Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 11. "It was great to learn techniques from the pros, and a real honor that they'd come all the way out here just to interact with us. I really had a blast."

After their visit to the naval base, the MMA specialists visited the Coral Reef Fitness Center on Andersen AFB to sign more autographs and host another interactive exhibition.

"The training was a really good overview; I liked the pace. It was nice and slow, which made it real easy for you to learn and commit it to memory, as opposed to seeing it done and trying to figure it out yourself," said Staff Sgt. Juan Pacheco, of 36th Civil Engineer Squadron. "They obviously know what they're doing and they broke the moves down to a simple level where people could learn them fairly easy."

Pacheco said he also felt that events like this help to lighten the mood and improve command climate.

"It's excellent for morale and it's something everyone can enjoy," he said.

Kaneshiro said that it was truly an honor to meet with service members and their families, and to have a positive effect on their morale.

"The military does so many things for us, that it's really hard to fathom the depths of their sacrifices," he said. "So if my two weeks of touring can do anything to brighten their day and let them know that we appreciate what they do for us, then it was totally worth it."

The MMA fighters will move on to Japan to continue their tour.

For more news from U.S. Naval Forces, Marianas, visit www.navy.mil/local/guam/.

Carrier Air Wing One Conducts Carrier Qualifications Aboard Enterprise

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Jared M. King, USS Enterprise (CVN 65) Public Affairs

USS ENTERPRISE, At sea (NNS) -- Aircraft assigned to Carrier Air Wing 1 (CVW-1) continued to arrive and conduct carrier qualifications aboard the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) Jan. 15 as she heads east for her 21st deployment.

A total of 61 aircraft from eight squadrons based out of Naval Station Norfolk, Va., Naval Air Station Oceana in Virginia Beach, Va., Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Fla., Naval Air Station Whidbey Island in Oak Harbor, Wash., and Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, S.C., comprise CVW-1, enabling the Enterprise Strike Group to carry out missions in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility.

The mission of CVW-1 is to conduct carrier air warfare operations and assist in the planning, control, coordination and integration of eight air wing squadrons in support of combat operations. Following extensive training at their respective air stations, the aircrews and pilots embarked Enterprise in August to complete shipboard qualifications before deployment.

"CVW-1 returned from our last deployment in Dec. of 2007 and since then, we have upgraded our technology, trained to the most demanding scenarios and studied the enemy as they have evolved their tactics," said Capt. Kenneth Whitesell, commander, CVW-1. "There is no better prepared air wing to go into combat and support the coalition fighters on the ground."

Updated radar technology, called active electronic scanned array, in two of the air wing's F/A-18 Super Hornet squadrons is just one of the many technology upgrades made to air wing aircraft.

"Our nation has made huge investments in advanced technology in order to provide us with the most capable and lethal aircraft possible," said Cmdr. Jason Velivlis, executive officer of the "Knighthawks" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 136. "The F/A-18E Super Hornet is a multi-role, strike-fighter aircraft, which can be configured for a wide variety of combat and combat support missions, including air-to-air, air-to-ground and most recently, aerial refueling."

CVW-1 has been in commission longer than any other Navy air wing. Since July 1, 1938, CVW-1 has served aboard 20 different aircraft carriers and has made more than 40 major deployments.

Velivlis said that teamwork, pride and professionalism are the keys that will help each squadron achieve its goals and successfully contribute to CVW-1's mission.

"Our most important goal is to arrive in the theater of operations prepared for combat and to be ready to provide critical close air support to friendly troops on the ground," said Velivlis. "VFA-136's long-term goal is to complete the deployment safely and effectively and bring the entire "Knighthawk" team back to Oceana for a happy reunion with our friends and family."

As the squadrons of CVW-1 fly on board the Enterprise's flight deck, they round out the Enterprise Carrier Strike Group, providing the force with the ability to complete their mission.

Enterprise Strike Group consists of Enterprise, the guided-missile cruiser USS Leyte Gulf (CG 55), the guided-missile destroyers USS Bulkeley (DDG 84), USS Barry (DDG 52) and USS Mason (DDG 87), USNS Arctic (T-AOE 8), Carrier Air Wing 1 and Destroyer Squadron 2.

For news regarding Enterprise Strike Group's deployment, log onto www.navy.mil/local/cvn65 or visit the USS Enterprise Facebook page at www.facebook.com/USS.Enterprise.CVN.65>

For more news from USS Enterprise (CVN 65), visit www.navy.mil/local/cvn65/.

Sterett Enjoys Smooth Sailing During Maiden Deployment

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Seth Clarke, USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72 Public Affairs)

USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) Carrier Strike Group commander, visited guided-missile destroyer USS Sterett (DDG 104), Jan. 13, to praise the crew on its performance midway through her maiden deployment.

Rear Adm. Mark D. Guadagnini, commander, Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group, told Sterett crew members he was happy to return to the ship to see them conducting their mission firsthand.

"Sterett was the first destroyer I was ever on at sea," said Guadagnini. "I have a fondness for this ship and for this crew of warriors. When I came on board the first time, I talked about all the great things you might be doing when we came on deployment. You guys are making it happen. You're making a difference to the strike group on this deployment."

Sterett, commissioned Aug. 9, 2008, began her deployment Oct. 22, when she departed her homeport of San Diego to join the Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group in the U.S. 7th and 5th Fleet areas of responsibility (AORs).

While in the U.S. 5th Fleet AOR, Sterett has escorted ships through the Strait of Hormuz, assisted stranded mariners at sea, and engaged with other strike group components on a variety of training missions.

Lt. j.g. Justin Lessel, Sterett's assistant supply officer, has been aboard the destroyer for more than a year. In that time, he's seen the ship grow into a valuable asset to the fleet. He said the crew has the new ship operating smoothly.

"We have a very good crew," Lessel said. "The people here know their jobs, and they do them very well. We've shown that throughout the deployment. This is a very capable warship; we're doing a lot of good things."

Fire Controlman 1st Class Stephen Zeller attributed the ship's success to the continuity provided by a crew that not only knows its role, but what to expect from one another.

"It's been good to find our rhythm," Zeller said. "When you have a crew that's together for an entire training cycle, it gives you the opportunity to train together so you know exactly how everybody is going to react. Everything has come together really seamlessly."

Zeller said that while getting a crew to grow together on a new destroyer can be a challenge, serving on a new ship also has its advantages.

"Having a newer ship takes a little bit of the maintenance demands off of our shoulders," he said. "It makes a big difference in helping us achieve our mission."

Throughout her deployment, Sterett will assist the strike group by providing deterrence, promoting peace and security, preserving freedom of the seas and offering humanitarian/disaster response capabilities.

The Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group is deployed in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility, conducting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts to establish conditions for regional stability.

For more news from USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72), visit www.navy.mil/local/cvn72/.

Nebraska, Michigan Awarded Battle "E"

By Lt. Ed Early, Commander, Submarine Group 9 Public Affairs

BANGOR, Wash. (NNS) -- Two Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor submarines, Trident ballistic missile submarine USS Nebraska (SSBN 739) and guided-missile submarine USS Michigan (SSGN 727), were recognized Jan. 1 by Commander Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet as recipients of the 2010 Battle Efficiency Award (Battle "E").

Nebraska's Blue and Gold crews received the Battle "E" for Submarine Squadron (SUBRON) 17, while Michigan's Blue Crew was awarded the Battle "E" for Submarine Squadron 19.

"Both Nebraska crews exemplified the spirit of teamwork with enthusiasm," said Capt. Paul Skarpness, commander of SUBRON 17. "Throughout 2010, Nebraska excelled in mission accomplishment, kept the ship in great fighting condition, and provided outstanding support to their families and the community. I am extremely proud of their accomplishments."

For Nebraska, the Battle "E" award announcement came on the same day that the boat's Gold Crew returned to Bangor after an 88-day strategic deterrent patrol.

"When we learned that we had won the award, the COB [Chief of the Boat] and I walked the ship to congratulate each Sailor on their efforts, and I was very pleased to see the pride that showed in all of them," said Cmdr. Mike Fisher, commanding officer of Nebraska's Gold Crew. "To receive the news while underway helped the crew return to port with an extraordinary sense of accomplishment."

Michigan's Blue Crew, commanded by Capt. Jerry Logan, is currently deployed to the U.S. Seventh Fleet area of responsibility after conducting a crew swap in Guam last November. Michigan made a routine port visit to Busan, Republic of Korea, in December.

"Michigan Blue's exceptional mission accomplishment and unmatched readiness for all peacetime and wartime mission areas made her the top crew in the squadron and provided relevant presence and capability in the western Pacific," said Capt. Dennis Carpenter, commander of SUBRON 19. "They demonstrated tremendous teamwork and esprit de corps while accomplishing two missions vital to national security."

The Battle "E" is an award of merit presented to the most proficient submarine crew in each squadron and recognizes sustained superior technical performance and continual combat readiness throughout the year. The awards are presented by the commodore of each squadron to the submarine under their command which has demonstrated the highest level of battle readiness during the evaluation year.

For more news from Commander, Submarine Group 9, visit www.navy.mil/local/csg9/.