www.flagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 1 | Thursday, July 6, 2023
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IN THIS ISSUE Navy Establishes the Maritime Cyber Warfare Officer Designator – 1880 Previously, the Navy has utilized officers within the Information Warfare community, including Cryptologic Warfare and Information Professional to fill billets across the Cyber Operations Forces (COF). The establishment of MCWO will allow officers to build expertise and professional experience. Page A6 VOL. 31, NO. 23, Norfolk, VA | flagshipnews.com
July 6-July 12, 2023
NAS Patuxent River mourns loss of firefighter Brice C. Trossbach By Chief Petty Officer Patrick Gordon Naval Air Station Patuxent River
It is with profound sadness that NAS Patuxent River announces the tragic loss of one of our brave firefighters, Brice C. Trossbach, 25, who died in the line of duty while responding to an emergency on June 27. Trossbach made the ultimate sacrifice while responding to a mutual aid call of a structure fire in Leonardtown, Maryland, dedicating his life to protect and serve our community. “Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to Brice’s family, friends, and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time,” said NAS Patuxent River Commanding Officer Capt. Derrick Kingsley. “We understand that no words can fully alleviate the pain and grief they are experiencing, but we want them to know that our entire NAS Patuxent River family stands beside them, offering our support, love, and prayers. In the face of this tragic loss, we are reminded of the tremendous risks our firefighters face each shift to keep our installation and our community safe. They put their lives on the line without hesitation, demonstrating remarkable bravery and commitment to the well-being of others. We are forever grateful for their service and sacrifice. Brice’s loss is not only felt by us at Pax, but by the greater Southern Maryland community as well.” Trossbach was a Naval District Washington Fire Fighter at NAS Patuxent River, having joined the department in August of 2019. His commitment to the community was further demonstrated by his additional service as a Volunteer Firefighter with the Leonardtown Volunteer Fire Department and the Bay District Volunteer Fire Department, which he served with since 2013. “I’ve known Brice since he was a little kid following his dad to the Leonardtown Fire Station when I was the Chief there, and he always wanted to be a firefighter,” said Gerald Gardiner, Deputy Director of Emergency Services for St. Mary’s County. “To see him come up from that kid, to the man and firefighter he’d become, makes this loss especially hard. His respect for those he helped, the mentorship he provided the younger guys coming up, and the service he gave to the nation and Southern Maryland community will leave a big hole in our hearts.” We kindly request that the privacy of the Trossbach family be respected during this challenging time of grieving. Information regarding memorial services and other related arrangements will be communicated as soon as they are finalized. NAS Patuxent River announces the tragic loss of one of our brave firefighters, Brice C. Trossbach, 25, who died in the line of duty while responding to an emergency on June 27. Trossbach made the ultimate sacrifice while responding to a mutual aid call of a structure fire in Leonardtown, Maryland, dedicating his life to protect and serve our community. (COURTESY PHOTO)
US 2nd Fleet awards Sailor for heroism: A testament to Sailors’ CPR and life-saving training By Commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet NORFOLK, Va. — A Sailor assigned to U.S. 2nd Fleet was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, June 27, 2023, for his actions rendering life-saving aid while on liberty last month. Senior Chief Culinary Specialist Gary Askins was first to respond to a man choking on food by administering the Heimlich maneuver. Askins was dining with his peers when he was approached by a patron, who noticed him in uniform and asked for assistance with a man who couldn’t breathe. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Askins assessed the severity of the situation, and acted without hesitation, using his training in CPR and anti-choking techniques. “He was just sitting on the floor, and he gave me the signal that he was choking,” said Askins. “I used my training to dislodge the food. Then I just made sure he was okay until the medical personnel arrived.” Once the patron’s breathing was restored, Askins returned to his meal while medical personnel continued their care. “I received a few pats on the back and even received a command coin from one of our senior leaders. I didn’t really think much of it,” said Askins. Askins’ actions and humble approach to saving a life serves as a testament to the importance of comprehensive training for Sailors. The incident highlights the critical role played by the U.S. Navy in equipping its personnel with life-saving skills, such
NORFOLK, Va. - Commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet, Vice Adm. Daniel Dwyer, awards Senior Chief Culinary Specialist Gary Askins with a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal. Askins received the award for his actions regarding life-saving aid while on liberty. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY MASS COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST 1ST CLASS JUSTIN JOHNDRO)
as CPR and anti-choking techniques. By instilling these skills and fostering a culture of readiness, the Navy continues to uphold its commitment to the safety and well-being of its Sailors and the broader community they serve. “The Navy has medical [jobs], but when any Sailor sees someone in need they’re
ready to assist,” said Senior Chief Information Systems Technician Shanta McPherson, 2nd Fleet’s CPR program coordinator. “Firefighting is the first thing most people think of when it comes to our training, but medical response is crucial in protecting those around us.” Recognizing that emergencies can occur
at any time and in any place, the Navy ensures that its personnel receive thorough instruction in life-saving techniques. These training programs include CPR, the Heimlich maneuver, and other essential skills, ensuring that Sailors are well-prepared to respond swiftly and effectively during critical situations. “I am proud of our Sailors at sea and ashore,” said Vice Adm. Daniel Dwyer, Commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet. “Senior Askins is a great example of a shore-based Sailor who kept his skills sharp, and made a difference saving a life. When the moment arose, he acted without hesitation. His actions represent the values we hold true here at 2nd Fleet, as our Sailors demonstrate their commitment to duty and excellence every day.” The Navy prioritizes the safety and well-being of its personnel, as well as civilians who may require assistance in emergencies. Regular training sessions and refresher courses are conducted to reinforce the skills and knowledge of Sailors. By maintaining a high standard of training, the Navy ensures that its personnel are prepared to take immediate action, potentially saving lives in both military and civilian contexts. U.S. 2nd Fleet, reestablished in 2018 in response to the changing global security environment, develops and employs maritime forces ready to fight across multiple domains in the Atlantic and Arctic in order to ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., allied, and partner interests.
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“Any father would be proud, no matter what profession, if his son decided to follow in his footsteps,” said U.S. Marine Corps Master Sgt. Christopher Lisle, the Expeditionary Firefighting & Rescue Chief with Marine Aircraft Control Group-28. Page A3
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