USS Ronald Reagan Drops Anchor in Guam

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW) Peter Lewis, U.S. Naval Forces, Marianas Public Affairs

SANTA RITA, Guam (NNS) -- Sailors from the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) arrived in Guam for a scheduled port visit Aug. 21.

The ship's arrival marks the first time a carrier has visited the island in more than two years.

Capt. Thom Burke, Ronald Reagan's commanding officer, said that he always looks forward to a return trip to Guam.

"I love this place," said Burke. "My crew is very, very excited about being back to visit and to take some time to enjoy the wonderful culture and island life while they're here in Guam."

The crew of approximately 4,500 Sailors will have the chance to tour the island, learn about local culture, relax and have fun in the tropical paradise while in port. The carrier will also host tours for distinguished visitors.

"It feels great to be in Guam," said Chief Logistics Specialist 1st Class (SW/AW) Atiba Johnson. "I'm going to go out, find a nice restaurant and get something to eat - relax a little, then take a nice run on the beach."

Aviation Maintenance Administrationman 2nd Class (AW/SW) Almond Joy Nervias was in full agreement.

"It's great to have a port visit," said Nervias. "I'm excited to get out and have some liberty. I can't wait to go to the beach, relax, do some swimming and go shopping!"

Ronald Reagan departed for a training exercise and deployment to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility (AOR) from its homeport of San Diego Feb. 2. Reagan's last deployment to the U.S. 7th Fleet AOR was in 2009.

PRIMS 2011 Streamlines Physical Readiness Reporting

From Navy Personnel Command Public Affairs

MILLINGTON, Tenn. (NNS) -- Navy Personnel Command announced Aug. 22 that the Navy has released a new version of Physical Readiness Information Management System (PRIMS), updating the Web-based application used to manage physical fitness data of more than 340,000 active-duty and Reserve Sailors.

"PRIMS 2011 was designed with user-friendliness in mind, and incorporates physical readiness program policy changes announced in the past year," said Bill Moore, director, Navy Physical Readiness Program. "We worked with developers and took Sailor input into consideration when we updated the program application to create PRIMS 2011."

The new version features a disconnected option for command fitness leaders (CFL) who may have limited connectivity.

"The disconnected option is a great benefit for command fitness leaders at sea," said Moore.

The new version will allow CFLs to download a spreadsheet and save it to a computer in their work center. The CFL can populate the data during deployment as they conduct their physical fitness assessment (PFA) cycle and then upload the information when they return to an operating area with the required bandwidth, according to Moore.

PRIMS is the Navy's official data source for Sailors' physical fitness assessment PFA data. It is used to monitor and track the progress of active-duty and Reserve personnel and identify, screen, educate and monitor members. PRIMS data is also verified against selection board and promotion board results at Navy Personnel Command.

Sailors should review their PRIMS data for accuracy after each PFA cycle. Sailors can access their PRIMS account at through Bupers OnLine at https://www.bol.navy.mil.

Surface Line Week 2011 Concludes

From Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet, Public Affairs

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Surface Line Week 2011 (SLW) concluded with an awards ceremony and picnic on board Naval Base San Diego, Aug. 19.

SLW is a 10-day contest sponsored by, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet (SURFPAC) that features a series of activities dedicated to friendly competition in a variety of seamanship and sporting events.

"We had nearly 2,500 participants in 33 different events and the Sailors did a great job," said Commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet, Vice Adm. Richard Hunt. "We have been celebrating SLW for 30 years. SLW gives us the opportunity to come together as a community, enjoy camaraderie, and participate in friendly competition."

Commands were categorized according to size, and trophies were awarded for first, second, and third place in each category. In the large command category, USS Peleliu (LHA 5) took home the top prize and USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) took second place. In the medium command category, USS Lake Champlain (CG 57) came in first place, USS Stockdale (DDG 106) second, and USS Benfold (DDG 65) third. For the small command category, USS Warrior (MCM 10) placed first, Littoral Combat Ship Squadron was second, and Explosive Ordnance Disposal Expeditionary Support Unit placed third. Individual winners in their respective categories were also announced and awarded.

"Peleliu's Sailors have been very enthusiastic about participating in all the events for Surface Line Week," said Peleliu Commanding Officer Capt. James Cox. "I'm very proud of them and they've done a great job. They dove into the competition full of enthusiasm, did very well, and we were able to take home the first place trophy. This is just a continuation of what the Sailors have done and will continue to do."

This year, participants competed in events, including perennial favorites such as basketball, softball and golf, along with damage control, ship handling and marksmanship.

"SLW overall was a great success this year. There was a lot of participation and the Sailors brought their best game to each event," said Lt. Jasmine Gough, coordinator for SLW. "The Sailors were competitive, but they never lost sight of being a good shipmate, and they supported one another even if they were not on the same team."

"This is the first time I've participated in Surface Line Week," said Yeoman Seaman Nick Jones. "It was cool to see everyone competing against each other. Next year I'm going to sign up for more events."

Biden Speaks to Chinese Students on U.S.-China Relations

By Karen Parrish

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Aug. 22, 2011 – The United States and China have essential roles to play in solving many of the world’s most pressing challenges, Vice President Joe Biden told a Chinese audience yesterday.

As part of a four-day visit to China, Biden visited Sichuan University in Chengdu, where he spoke to Chinese college students about U.S.-China relations.

Biden first visited that nation in 1979 as a senator.

“It was a very different country then, but what was absolutely clear to me was that China was on the cusp of a remarkable transformation,” he told the students.

A rising China will fuel economic growth and bring to the fore a new partner with whom the United States can meet global challenges, the vice president said.

When President Barack Obama and he took office in 2009, they made the U.S.-China relationship a top priority, Biden said.

“Our presidents have met nine times since then, including very successful state visits in Beijing and Washington, and have spoken numerous times by telephone,” he noted.

The premier forum for communication between United States and Chinese officials is the Strategic and Economic Dialogue, which brings together policymakers from across both governments to discuss issues from trade barriers to climate change, he said.

In May, the two nations also jointly launched the first Strategic Security Dialogue as a channel for civilian and military leaders to discuss sensitive topics, including cyber and maritime security, the vice president said.

To make that dialogue effective, it’s important that the two nations’ military leaders get to know each other, Biden said. Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and Chief of the General Staff Chen Bingde of the Chinese army have begun that process through n exchange of visits in May and July, he noted.

“The fact is China and the United States face many of the same threats and share many of the same objectives and responsibilities,” Biden said.

Because China and the United States sometimes view threats from different perspectives, the two nations’ senior military leaders should talk “as frequently as our diplomats do,” he said.

The United States is and will remain a Pacific power, the vice president said.

“Over the last 60 years, no country has done more than we have to ensure the stability and security of the Asian-Pacific region,” Biden said. “And I’d respectfully suggest that has been good for China, allowing China to focus on domestic development and to benefit from a growing market.”

America’s focus on the region will only grow in the years to come, as Asia plays an even greater role in the global economy and international affairs, he said.

Biden said the United States and China are working with international partners to counter the threat of nuclear weapons, materials and technology, noting that Chinese President Hu Jintau joined President Barack Obama and other leaders last year at a nuclear security conference.

“Along with 46 other world leaders, President Hu honored us by joining President Obama and me at the Nuclear Security Summit in April of last year, and our nations are now collaborating on a center for excellence to provide nuclear security in China,” Biden said.

During his visit, the vice president told the students, he discussed with Chinese Vice President Xi Jinping, the need for the two nations to focus on “the world’s two primary nuclear proliferating challenges: North Korea and Iran.”

If armed with nuclear weapons on long-range missiles, North Korea and Iran would pose a direct and serious, existential threat to the security of the United States and its allies, Biden said.

“That is why we’ve been working with China and our international partners to maintain peace and stability on the Korean peninsula and to achieve a complete denuclearization of North Korea,” he said. “And it is why as the Iranian government continues its illicit nuclear program, we have worked with a range of partners and international institutions to enact the toughest sanctions that Iran has ever faced.”

The United States will continue to look to China to send a clear message to Iranian leaders through its words and its deeds that Iran must live up to its international obligations, he added.

Other security challenges the United States and China share include Afghanistan, Pakistan and the Sudan, the vice president noted.

“Continuing to develop our security dialogue and cooperation is the surest way to meet these joint challenges,” he said.

Biden repeated for the students a comment he made during the annual Strategic and Economic Dialogue here in May: “For many of the world’s most pressing challenges, it is a simple fact that when the United States and China are not at the table, the solution to the problem is less possible.”

Obama and Biden will continue working to make the nations’ partnership more positive, cooperative and comprehensive in the coming years, he said.

“I hope that my visit can serve as a step toward these goals and toward strengthening that bond,” he added.

Biden later visited Mongolia, and he is now in Japan. His overseas trip concludes later this week.

Chief of Navy Reserve visits Reserve Staff during PANAMAX

From U.S. 4th Fleet Public Affairs

MAYPORT, Fla. (NNS) -- Vice Adm. Dirk Debbink, Chief of Navy Reserve and Commander, Navy Reserve Force visited U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command and U.S. 4th Fleet (COMUSNAVSO/C4F) headquarters, Aug. 21 to meet with Reserve staff members during PANAMAX.

Rear Adm. Kurt W. Tidd, COMUSNAVSO/C4F, welcomed Debbink and his delegation as they arrived at the headquarters.

"We're very proud to have Admiral Debbink visit us today," said Tidd. "This visit is an opportunity for us to discuss how Navy Reservists fully integrate into the everyday operations of their active duty counterparts both in real world situations as well as exercises such as PANAMAX."

During his visit, Debbink toured the headquarters, and got to talk to several Reservists and got a glimpse of the Navy's total force in action during PANAMAX.

"It is great to join you this morning and see the tremendous work of the Navy's total force for this exercise." said Debbink. "It is not just an exercise....your contributions to the operations here at NAVSO and during PANAMAX is significant in that they prove the strategic importance of this area of responsibility."

PANAMAX is one of the largest multinational training exercises in the world. The annual U.S. Southern Command (USSOUTHCOM) sponsored exercise series focuses on ensuring the defense of the Panama Canal, crucial to the unrestricted flow of global maritime commerce.

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.

Walter Reed Enters Final Phase with Patient Moves

By Terri Moon Cronk

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Aug. 19, 2011 – About 200 outpatient wounded warriors are expected to move from Walter Reed Army Medical Center here this weekend to the nearby National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Md., as the two hospitals move closer to becoming one.

More than 100 inpatients will move from Walter Reed’s wards to Bethesda by ambulance Aug. 28, and the flag will be lowered for good at the 102-year-old Army hospital.

Also as part of the changes in military health care facilities in the national capital region mandated by the Base Realignment and Closure Act of 2005, some of Walter Reed’s functions, patients and staff are moving to the newly expanded DeWitt Army Community Hospital on Fort Belvoir, Va.

After the Army and Navy hospitals merge, the Bethesda campus will be renamed as Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.

Walter Reed’s era of caring for privates to presidents has spanned both world wars, the Korean conflict, Vietnam and the return of prisoners of war, and the decade-long wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. At a recent transition ceremony, military medical leaders reflected on Walter Reed’s history as the Army’s flagship of medicine.

“It is bittersweet that we are marking an ending to mark a new beginning at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center,” said Army Col. Norvell V. “Van” Coots, commander of Walter Reed’s health care system. “You can go anywhere in the world, and … people who don’t speak English know the words ‘Walter Reed.’ To me, that’s how you define ‘iconic.’”

Built for 80 inpatients in 1909 under a single roof in a Georgian-brick building, the former Walter Reed General Hospital eventually became the bustling medical campus it is today, with 72 buildings on a 113-acre plot of land, closely surrounded by a neighborhood in the upper-northwest quadrant of the nation’s capital.

“[There was] no room to expand and meet the changing demands of the complexity of the wounded warriors,” Coots said. “The room was found on the grounds of the naval hospital in Bethesda,” he said.

Standing ready for Walter Reed’s patients are the newly dedicated Wounded Warriors Barracks and Wounded Warriors Complex, dedicated two weeks ago at Bethesda.

Lt. Gen. Eric B. Schoomaker, Army surgeon general and a former Walter Reed commander, called the transition a time to celebrate the “history of this great campus, and to celebrate unquestionable high-quality care” in the course of its lengthy history.

Navy Rear Adm. Matthew L. Nathan, National Naval Medical Center commander, said he looks forward to the quality of care the merger will provide.

“We recognize, as teammates, to … take Walter Reed and the National Naval Medical Center and forge [an] integrated staff and facilities to become the new Walter Reed National Military Medical Center at Bethesda,” he said. “The synergy and partnership that that creates will [provide] the highest, most pristine medicine.”

Leap Frogs Soar Into Chicago Air & Water Show

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (PJ) Michelle Turner

CHICAGO (NNS) -- More than two million air-show enthusiasts watched the U.S. Navy parachute demonstration team, the Leap Frogs, perform during the 53rd Chicago Air and Water Show, Aug. 20-21.

The air show also included segments by the U.S. Army parachute team, the Golden Knights, the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, the U.S. Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II "Warthogs" and several civilian aerobatic teams.

A member of the Leap Frogs and the Golden Knights opened the show each day with a bi-plane formation - a maneuver in which two jumpers stack their parachutes one above the other. Pilots of four civilian, aerobatic aircraft circled the jumpers during the jump, spiraling white smoke around the jumpers. Aircrew Survival Equipmentman 1st Class Thomas Kinn flew an American Flag both days during the national anthem.

"On behalf of the City of Chicago we are so pleased to have the U.S. Navy Leap Frogs parachute team as part of our Chicago Air and Water Show," said David Kennedy, deputy director of the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events. "Seeing the team flying in with the American flag to open our show is a thrill beyond belief."

The Leap Frogs conducted four precision, freefall jumps over the two-day aerial review despite heavy rain that paused the show for almost three hours Saturday. The team worked in a joint-service environment jumping along side the Golden Knights from both the Golden Knights' Fokker C-31A Troopship aircraft and a Missouri Air National Guard C-130 Hercules cargo aircraft.

The crowd cheered and shouted "Hoo-Yah" as the Leap Frogs jumped out of the aircraft for their final performance of the weekend. The jumpers screamed across the sky above Chicago's downtown area in a track formation at 180 miles per hour, trailing smoke behind them. The crowd watched in awe as the Leap Frogs maneuvered their canopies into different formations including a drag plane. During the drag plane maneuver, the lowest jumper of three turned his parachute upside down as the formation plummeted toward the ground at 60 miles per hour.

"You cannot pick a better thing to do on a summer day along Chicago's lakefront," said spectator Alyssa Graver, a native of Chicago. "It's a great day to remember our men and women who serve and protect our country everyday - the amazing things they do and the sacrifices they make. The adrenaline at the show is contagious. The Leap Frogs are a truly amazing sight in action."

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

USS Mahan Sailors Volunteer Visit Women's Transitional Shelter

By Bob Krekorian, Naval Station Newport Public Affairs

MIDDLETOWN, R.I. (NNS) -- Thirteen volunteers from the guided missile destroyer USS Mahan (DDG 72) donated their time, talents, and skills at a local transitional shelter for women and their children, Aug. 18, during the ship's visit at Naval Station Newport, Newport, R.I.

USS Mahan arrived Naval Station Newport's Pier 2, Aug. 15, as part of the Surface Warfare Officers School's (SWOS) visiting ships program.

While in port, the ship provided tours for approximately 550 U.S. and International Officers, enlisted, midshipman, and officer candidates from SWOS, Naval War College, Officer Training Command Newport, Naval Academy Preparatory School, and Navy Supply Corps School; and 33 teens from the Naval Station Newport school age care program at the installation's Child Development Center.

The ship undertook the community service project at Lucy's Hearth, the Newport County Homeless Shelter for Women and their Children. The project included painting four bedrooms, refinishing two wood tables, moving furniture into and out of storage, and shampooing rugs.

"I think this project is worthwhile," said Fire Controlman 1st Class Rafael Silva of Kingsville, Texas. "Everyone needs help to get back on their feet," he said.

"I volunteer often because I like to help the local community," said Gas Turbine System Technician Electrical Apprentice Katie Kile of Austin, Texas. Kile said she has experienced not having a place to call home. "When I was young my father left my mother and I," she said.

Seaman Katherine Renard of Fullerton, Calif., said she volunteered because mothers and their children were being helped. "Knowing that I can help a mother in need and make life a little easier is an accomplishment," she said.

The Sailors donated more than 65 man-hours working at the shelter.

"I'm glad to help," said Information Systems Technician 3rd Class Steven Moore of Marietta, Ga. Moore said he had a friend who was in a similar situation. "A newly painted room makes everyone feel better," he said.

Logistics Specialist Seaman Bridget Agyemang of Ghana said the USS Mahan contingent at the shelter were doing their best to put a smile on the faces of the mothers who would occupy the rooms.

"We want to help them live in a better place," she said.

"We are so fortunate and grateful to have their expertise," said Jennifer Barrera, the shelter's program director. "The projects they do for us are so important to us," she said.

Today in the Department of Defense, Monday, August 22, 2011

Secretary of Defense Leon E. Panetta and Deputy Secretary of Defense William J. Lynn have no public or media events on their schedules.

A National Capital Region flyover of Arlington National Cemetery occurs at 3:05 p.m. EDT with two EA6-B's.

Fallen Sailor Remembered In Hometown

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Lowell Whitman, Navy Public Affairs Support Element West

JACKSONVILLE, N.C. (NNS) -- More than 200 friends, family and fellow service members gathered at White Oak High School, Aug. 20, to remember Special Warfare Operator 1st Class (SEAL) Christopher Campbell.

Campbell was one of 30 U.S. service members killed when a coalition CH-47 Chinook helicopter crashed in Afghanistan, Aug. 6.

American flags were placed along the entrance to the school and members of the Patriot Guard Riders, a group wishing to show respect for members of the armed forces, lined the sidewalk leading to the schools auditorium. A table at the entrance held photographs of Campbell, a guestbook for condolences, and a "shadowbox" containing medals and other decorations that chronicled his Navy career.

At the conclusion of ceremonial colors, Campbell's brother, Le, spoke at the service.

"My brother is a hero, for all of us," he said. "Chris is not the kind of man that would ever quit. He would never back down. He lived his life to the fullest [and] never had any regrets."

Le was apt to remember his brother's patriotism. Recalling time spent together during one of Chris' visit to Jacksonville, Le remembered seeing Chris glancing up at an American flag.

"We went by that flag and he just kind of looked up and grinned," Le said, "he never took it for granted. Never."

Also speaking at the service was Sean Harperberger, who attended boot camp and service school with Campbell and was a former SEAL teammate of his.

"In my opinion [Campbell's] strongest passion was for that of helping others. He was always, and I mean always more worried about everyone else than he was of himself," said Harperberger.

Harperberger recalled a time during SEAL training when Campbell, a more experienced swimmer, volunteered to be his swim buddy.

"[Campbell] took himself from being the number one swim pair in all of SEAL training to the absolute worst and from that moment I realized what an amazing guy he was, that he'd be a close friend forever."

Childhood friends of Campbell's spoke following Haperberger and a slideshow highlighting Campbell's life was presented. The ceremony concluded with the playing of "Taps."

Campbell is survived by his wife Angelina; daughter Samantha; parents, and brother, Le. He will be laid to rest in Arlington National Cemetery later this month.

Campbell, 36, joined the Navy in 1997 and graduated from Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL school in Coronado, Calif. In February 1998. He then reported to a West Coast based SEAL team until 2004, where he earned his SEAL qualification. During his more than 13 years as a Navy SEAL, Campbell served at three separate commands, becoming a distinguished combat veteran and earning a number of decorations including the Bronze Star with "V' device for valor.

Campbell requested that for anyone interested in making donations in his honor to do so to the Wounded Warriors Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675-8517 or donations can be made online at https://support.woundedwarrioproject.org/.

Utah Town Holds Memorial for Fallen SEAL

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Dominique Lasco, Naval Special Warfare Command public affairs

BLANDING, Utah (NNS) -- Special Warfare Operator (SEAL) 1st Class Jason Workman, 32, was honored in a memorial service at the Blanding Stake Center in Blanding, Utah Aug. 20.

Workman was one of 30 U.S. service members killed when a coalition CH-47 Chinook helicopter crashed in Afghanistan on, Aug. 6.

Saturday afternoon more than 300 family, friends, teammates and neighbors gathered to celebrate the life and mourn the loss of their beloved husband, son, brother, and friend.

Among those in attendance was Utah Governor Gary R. Herbert, who ordered both the U.S. and Utah state flags to be flown at half-staff at all state facilities, honoring Workman as a selfless patriot who stepped forward of his own free will to serve and protect the freedom and rights shared by all Americans.

"I think it takes a special kind of courage, a singular spirit of dedication and an unselfish commitment to God and to country to as a volunteer step forward to render the service that Petty Officer Workman gave," said Herbert to the Workman family. "Utah mourns with you at this time."

Workman's three brothers Corey, Tim, and Stephen shared stories of their little brother and spoke of his humility, integrity, and kindness.

"No greater love hath any man than to give his life for his friends," said Stephen, as he quoted scripture to describe his brother's sacrifice, a theme that was repeated throughout the service.

"Jason was a hero," said his brother, Tim. "I hope that if you look up 'hero' in the dictionary, you would see a picture of Jason."

Other family members and teammates also spoke of Workman's life with laughter and through tears. They spoke of his dedication to his family and friends, his drive to be the best and how he loved being a Navy SEAL.

The ceremony concluded with members of the Utah National Guard rendering a 21-gun salute, while a Navy bugler played "Taps" as the Blanding and San Juan County community offered a final salute to their hometown hero.

Workman's interment is scheduled to take place at Arlington National Cemetery later this month.

Petty Officer Workman is survived by a loving wife and son, his parents, his three brothers, and their families.

The family requests in lieu of flowers, Jason requested that donations be sent to either the Naval Special Warfare Foundation (www.nswfoundation.org) or the Workman family at: Towne Bank, 297 Constitution Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23462. Checks payable to: Workman Family Fund.

Vendetta: Sicilian Justice

With the addition of Mike LaPaglia, Military-Writers.com now lists 1263 US Military servicemembers who have authored books.

Mike LaPaglia was “born and raised in Brooklyn, New York. His career in Criminal Justice spanned forty years. An Air Force enlistee, Mike LaPaglia was honorably discharged and reenlisted in the US Air Force Reserves as Special Agent for the OSI (Office of Special Investigation). In 1957, Mike LaPaglia joined the ranks of the NYPD assigned to Homicide-Organized Crime Squad. In 1976, he joined the ranks of the Ulster County Sheriff s Office where he headed a Special Investigation Division and was later promoted to Captain in charge of all police services. In 1986, Mike LaPaglia was elected Sheriff and retired in 1998.” Mike LaPaglia is the author of Vendetta: Sicilian Justice and The Telic Sanction.


According to the book description of the Vendetta: Sicilian Justice, it is a “riveting suspense filled saga about a little Italian boy from Gangi, in the mountains of Sicily and his tumultuous rise through the Mafia ranks in America.”

According to the book description of The Telic Sanction, “the Coralbank robbery-murder case had too many unanswered questions for NYPD Detective Mike Gallo. Obsessed with a need to know, Gallo plummets into an abyss of dead ends while clashing with his boss, and the CIA. Pressed to drop his investigation, Gallo is forced to make unorthodox moves to uncover some dark deep secret that had not yet surfaced.”

Service Members Urge Panetta to Follow Through on Mission

By Jim Garamone

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Aug. 19, 2011 – “Don’t give up on the mission” is the message he gets from service members when he meets them, Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta said here today.

Speaking with military reporters during a roundtable discussion in his Pentagon office this morning, Panetta evoked meetings he has had with service members in Iraq and Afghanistan and at various bases in the United States since taking office July 1.

He has visited with wounded warriors in the Washington area hospitals, he said, and he is impressed with their resilience. “[When I look] at the sacrifices they have made and I see their resilience – I mean, they fought for this country and now they have to sort of fight for themselves,” he said. “It’s that kind of energy and attitude that is inspiring.”

The main message he gets from service members and their families, though, is “don’t give up on the mission,” the secretary said.

“In other words: ‘[Given] the sacrifices we’ve gone through, whether in Iraq or Afghanistan or any place else, just make sure we continue the mission and get the job done,’” Panetta said.

“What they want to know,” he added, “is that whatever they’ve been through and what sacrifices they’ve made, in the end it has been worthwhile in terms of defending their country.”

Panetta has been in office almost two months, and he comes in during challenging times.

“I’ve got to deal with two wars, a NATO mission in Libya and the war on terror,” he said. “As effective as our efforts have been to try to weaken al-Qaida, the fact is they remain a threat to this country, and we have to continue to put pressure on them.”

Taking on al-Qaida and similar groups means continuing pressure not only in Afghanistan, Iraq and Pakistan, but also in places where nodes of terrorism have sprouted, such as in Yemen and Somalia, Panetta said, while also paying attention to Iran and North Korea – rogue nations that are trying to attain a nuclear capability.

The secretary also is stressing a whole new battlefield in the cyber realm. Hackers – or possibly countries – attack DOD networks hundreds or thousands of times a day, he noted. “Cyber is the battlefield of the future, and we don’t pay enough attention to that threat,” he said.

Rising powers in the world – such as China, India and Brazil -- and continuing relations with Russia also require attention, Panetta said. “We have to do everything possible to ensure they represent a force for stability in the world, and not instability,” he explained.

And all this happens as the United States is facing serious budget concerns.

“Based on my own budget experience, I don’t think you have to choose between national defense and fiscal responsibility,” the secretary said. “Within the resources Congress has provided, I think we can meet those responsibilities.”

Panetta said DOD must protect its core national security interests, maintain the best military in the world, and not break faith with service members and their families.

“America has a special place in the world [through] our military power [and] our diplomatic capabilities, but more importantly, our values and our freedoms,” he said. My job is to make sure that we maintain that special place for America in the world. The only way I can do that is to maintain the core strength that is really behind our military power, which is the men and women who put their lives on the line every day to protect this country.

“In the end,” he continued, “there are a lot of pretty technological weapons from bombers to fighter planes to submarines, … but none of that is worth much without men and women who are willing to defend this country.”

HSL-42 Delivers Backpacks to Hubbard House

By Yeoman Petty Officer 3rd Class Tamara Vaughn

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (NNS) -- The Multi Cultural Committee of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light (HSL) 42, provided more than 200 backpacks full of school supplies for needy children at the Hubbard House in Jacksonville, Fla., Aug.18.

"This was a good opportunity for the Navy to help the community, namely the unfortunate kids who can't afford a nice backpack and school supplies," said Aviation Electrician's Mate (AW) Chief Petty Officer Dalon Barksdale. "It makes us look good and shows that we are a big part of the community, too."

Thirteen Sailors delivered the backpacks full of supplies to children staying at the domestic violence shelter, just in time for Duval County school openings on, Aug. 22. The shelter has approximately 90 victims who keep their children in the shelter with them. The Hubbard House provides services to more than 5,000 victims a year.

"When I heard about the build-a-backpack operation, I knew we could make a big difference in the community," said Logistics Specialist Petty Officer 3rd Class Monika Rolle. "I am proud of the way the command responded. It is unbelievable how we came together and got things accomplished. We built 201 backpacks in such a short amount of time."

"My junior people took the lead on this drive, all I did was buy a few backpacks and they did the rest," said Logistics Specialist Petty Officer 1st Class (AW/SW) Andy Mucciarone. "Many of the people here didn't come from a wealthy family so this means a lot to them."

HSL- 42 Commanding Officer Cmdr. Brad Collins, Executive Officer Cmdr. Edward Anderson, and Command Master Chief (AW/SW) Terrence Mitchell challenged each work center, detachment, division and department to a competition during the build-a-bag operation. The senior leaders in the chain of command put a fun twist into helping the community by promising a pizza lunch to the center providing the most backpacks. The winning group was the administration office, building more than 40 backpacks.

"It was a tremendous gift," said Ellen Siler, chief executive officer for the Hubbard House. "We are not a government funded organization so nothing is given to us. We are thrilled to get these supplies as most of the children who come here have only the clothes on their back. For all of the children here, who have very little, receiving something brand new is absolutely wonderful."

Hundreds Pay Tribute to Fallen Navy Sailor

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW/AW) Sara Bitter, Naval Special Warfare Public Affairs

PHILADELPHIA (NNS) -- The life of a Navy Sailor was celebrated during a Catholic Mass at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul in Philadelphia Aug. 18.

Cryptologic Technician (Collection) 1st Class Michael Strange, 25, was one of 22 Naval Special Warfare personnel killed in a helicopter crash in Afghanistan Aug. 6.

More than 200 services members from the Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard and Marine Corps; more than 200 Philadelphia police officers; Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter; and family and friends filled the cathedral to pay respect to Strange's family and friends.

Cardinal Justin Rigali was the celebrant of the mass.

After the mass, a ceremony was held in Logan Circle where Strange's mother Elizabeth Strange, father Charlie Strange Jr. and fiance Brianna Hostetler were presented American flags.

A Navy honor guard rendered a three volley salute. Guests bowed their heads as "Taps" played followed by "Amazing Grace" performed by the police and firefighters of the Highland Bagpipe and Drum Band.

"Mike was my best friend and a brother to me. He was the best guy I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. He was an honorable service member, and a silent warrior who excelled in the Navy and in life," said Cryptologic Technician (Collection) 1st Class Ian Regnier.

"Mike was killed doing what he loved. He died serving alongside some of the finest men this country will ever see. Not a day will pass where we won't think of Mike, and thank him for the ultimate sacrifice he made for our country and us," said Maggie O'Brien, Strange's aunt. "We've received tremendous support from the U.S. Navy, Philadelphia Police Department and our community here, and for that, we are so thankful. We thank you for joining us today and know you will help us keep Mike's spirit alive for years to come."

"We grieve for all of them, and admire their teamwork, commitment and courage. We are truly blessed that such men answer a call to military service at the highest levels of professionalism and capability, but also deeply saddened by their loss," said Commander, Naval Special Warfare Command, Rear Adm. Sean A. Pybus.

Fleet Logistics Center Yokosuka Completes Talisman Sabre Support Mission

By H. Sam Samuelson, NAVSUP FLC Yokosuka Office of Corporate Communication

YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) -- A Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) Fleet Logistics Center (FLC) Yokosuka logistics response team (LRT) returned to Japan from multiple sites in Australia and Guam Aug. 2, after providing support for exercise Talisman Sabre 2011.

"This biennial event is one of the biggest exercises in the Western Pacific theater of operations and provides an invaluable opportunity to test force and logistics interoperability with one of our closest allies," said Lt. Anthony Castleberry, NAVSUP FLC Yokosuka officer-in-charge of LRT operations.

Talisman Sabre is jointly sponsored by the U.S. Pacific Command and Australian Defence Force Joint Operations Command to train U.S. 7th Fleet and Australian Deployable Joint Headquarters staffs as a designated combined task force.

More than 22,000 U.S. and Australian personnel took part in the exercise designed to increase both countries' abilities to plan and execute contingency responses, from combat missions to humanitarian assistance efforts, including land, air and sea training.

Dozens of U.S. ships and hundreds of aircraft participated.

"All the operating forces including, of course, our Australian colleagues, needed continuous logistics support to successfully execute all the training elements of Talisman Sabre," said Castleberry. "That's where we came in."

Castleberry said the American-based LRT formed up with an Australian logistics contingent to create a combined logistics support element in Rockhampton, Queensland, including a nearby military airfield and the Shoalwater Bay Training Area.

In concept, Castleberry's team was devoted to U.S. Forces and the Australian team served its forces.

"But that didn't really happen," Castelberry said. "We assisted each other. We worked as a single team and, at times, it wasn't a matter of which country's ship the material was going to; it was a matter of getting it there safely and on time."Still, the LRT arrived and served the exercise successfully."

The LRT concept was designed to more efficiently provide local, on-scene logistics support by logistics representatives who are familiar with the area-in this case the waters in and around Australia.

In years past, ships would establish beach detachments and assign logistics and supply specialists from inside the hulls to staff the detachments. Unfamiliarity would bread inefficiencies.

"The NAVSUP FLC Yokosuka team comes with experience and understanding of the area, of operations, bases, commercial and military support infrastructures," Castleberry said.

During the exercise, material such as parts, equipment, food stuffs, comfort items and even the mail was delivered to Guam and directly to sites within Australia. A NAVSUP FLC Yokosuka team in Guam sorted material and coordinated transportation via the Navy Air Logistics Office for further movement to Australia.

Castleberry and his team received the material from Guam, as well as prioritized supplies directly into Rockhampton via commercial shipping, sorted and coordinated further transportation to the units at sea.

Castleberry said the Guam LRT tracked 26 high-priority requisitions and expedited 90 line items for shipment by commercial air alone. The LRT also assisted with the quarantine and customs clearance of more than 40 personnel transiting to and from the exercise areas.

Eisenhower Conducts Burial at Sea

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Rob Rupp, USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Public Affairs

USS EISENHOWER, At Sea (NNS) -- Sailors aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (IKE) gathered to honor the deaths of two former Sailors in a burial at sea ceremony, Aug. 18.

"It was quite the honor to be able to participate in the ceremony and a humbling experience to meld the religious aspects with military honors for the burial," said Lt. Cmdr. Tom Statler, one of IKE's chaplains.

In earlier days, burial at sea was an absolute necessity when a death occurred on board a ship.

Today, it is seldom necessary to bury members at sea, except in time of war. On occasion, naval personnel who die ashore, or naval retirees, request a burial at sea.

These requests are honored whenever possible. Such requests are submitted to the cognizant naval area commander for approval. If authorized, the date of the burial will be determined by the availability of the concerned naval vessel.

"It takes a lot of preparation to conduct a burial at sea," said Statler. "Coordinating this ceremony involved a wide variety of people from the command, such as arranging the honor guard and a firing squad to be there."

The ceremony was composed of religious rites, which consisted of reading scriptures, prayer, the committal and Benediction. Military honors consisted of the firing of three volleys after the Benediction, Taps, and the folding and presentation of the United States flag to the Executive Officer and Command Master Chief, who received it on behalf of the deceased's next of kin.

"The families trust the Navy with the remains of their deceased to carry out their final wishes," said Statler. "Death can be such a great enemy at times, and remembering the life of someone that has passed away can be a great opportunity to bring comfort and joy to the families whom experienced such a significant loss."

Individuals eligible for this program are: active duty members of uniformed services; retirees and veterans who were honorably discharged, U.S. civilian marine personnel of the Military Sealift Command: and dependent family members of active duty personnel, retirees, and veterans of the uniformed services.

Eisenhower is currently underway conducting carrier qualifications in the Atlantic Ocean.

Motorcycle Ride Kicks Off 9/11 Memorial Observances

By Donna Miles

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON – Tenth-anniversary commemorations of the 9/11 terror attacks will begin kicking off tomorrow, as almost 2,500 motorcyclists launch the 11th America’s 9/11 Ride that begins in Shanksville, Pa., and continues over the next three days to the Pentagon and World Trade Center crash sites.

The annual memorial ride, sponsored by America’s 911 Foundation Inc., honors more than 3,000 victims of the 9/11 attacks, including 184 killed when American Airlines Flight 77 exploded into the Pentagon, as well as the first responders who rushed to all three locations.

Sept. 11 survivors, families who lost loved ones in the attacks and first responders are among those registered for this year’s memorial ride, to kick off tomorrow evening in Pennsylvania’s Somerset County. There, the first phase of a new Flight 93 National Memorial honoring 40 people killed aboard the flight will be dedicated Sept. 10.

Following an evening memorial concert by rock ‘n’ roll “screamer” Donnie Iris Aug. 18, the motorcycle procession will depart early the next day for the Pentagon Memorial. There, riders will pay tribute to victims of the Pentagon attack, including the 58 passengers, four flight attendants and two pilots aboard the hijacked Boeing 757 and 125 people inside the Pentagon.

Country music star Aaron Tippin, best known in military circles for his “You’ve Got to Stand for Something” single that became a popular anthem for troops fighting in the Gulf War and his No. 1 post-9/11 hit, “Where the Stars and Stripes and the Eagles Fly,” will present a free concert that evening in nearby Arlington, Va.

The last leg of the ride will begin at the Pentagon early Aug. 20 as the motorcyclists travel to ground zero in New York. The following day, they will participate in a World Trade Center ceremony honoring 2,753 victims of the attacks there, which includes deaths from respiratory disease linked to the towers’ collapse.

Ted Sjurseth, who with his wife, Lisa, founded America’s 911 Foundation in October 2001, sponsored the first memorial ride the following month with 250 participants. The ride has increased in size over the past decade, and Sjurseth said he’s excited that the 10-anniversary ride will be the largest yet.

“We’re focused on making this year’s ride better than ever and taking what we’ve been working on over the past 10 years to the next level,” he said. “Through this year’s program, along with the ride, we will continue our primary mission to remember and honor those who lost their lives on 9/11.”

The ride also raises money for programs that support families of first responders, foundation officials said. Over the past six years, the foundation has awarded more than $180,000 in college scholarships to more than 75 children of emergency responders, and donated more than $500,000 in new equipment and contributions to first-responder departments.

“We're here to honor the heroes we have around us every day,” Sjurseth said.