2 JET OBSERVER • January 9, 2014
January 9, 2014 • JET OBSERVER 3
Military blood program director urges generosity BY JIM GARAMONE American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON (NNS) — Air Force Col. Richard H. McBride wants all service members to be part of a new arms race. McBride, the director of the Armed Services Blood Program, wants service members to roll up their sleeves and donate blood to help their fellow service members and their families. Historically,blood levels shrink around the holidays,and since 1970, January has been declared National Blood Donor Month. “January, just like the summer months, is a time when there is a decrease in the blood supply, primarily because people are preoccupied with the holidays,” McBride said during a recent interview.“This is a great time to encourage donors and keep them aware that we need donations 12 months a year, not just in the summer.” The Armed Services Blood Program is dedicated to ensuring that service members who need blood, get it.And the medics involved with the program have been getting a workout. The fighting overseas has consumed a lot of blood resources, McBride said. One injured service member may need 40 units of blood in order to get back home. “It’s a sacred mission that we hold in our hearts,” the colonel said. The program’s staff wants to ensure that every wounded warrior that can make it home does come home. “We never want to hear that they didn’t come home because they didn’t have enough blood,” McBride said. The program also provides blood products for stateside service members and family members. “Right now we collect about 10,000 units per month —
Photo by MC2 (SW) Alysia R. Hernandez
Kim Goldson, a phlebotomist from Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, draws blood from HM3 Kervin Lacson, from Branch Health Clinic Oceana, during a blood drive hosted by the Armed Services Blood Program’s mobile donor unit at NAS Oceana Jan. 6. The next Oceana blood drive will be Jan. 28, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at FRCMA. about 120,000 a year,” said McBride, who hails from New York City’s borough of Queens.“In peacetime, it can go as low as 90,000 [units] per year, but at the height of Operation Iraqi Freedom, we were collecting about 150,000 to 160,000 a year.” One blood donation can result in four products. Red blood cells are what give blood its color and what a person needs if he or she is in danger of bleeding to death. Blood plasma is the straw-colored liquid that has clotting factors in it. Doctors use plasma to prevent bleeding.
Platelets are blood cell fragments and also help accelerate clotting. A final blood product is cryoprecipitate, which is also used to accelerate clotting. Doctors also use whole blood and there have been times during the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan where doctors had to transfuse whole blood to wounded warriors. In times of crises, doctors sometimes must turn to “the walking blood bank.” This is an emergency whole blood collection from service members. “It’s definitely not planned, but we train for it,” McBride said. “In those cases, we ask everyone to roll up their sleeves and donate at a moment’s notice.” He continued,“We’ve never had a problem with people donating” blood throughout all the military operations. “Our troops donate, and those deployed have no problem rolling up their sleeves if they are available to save another warrior’s life,” he said. The blood program follows all Food and Drug Administration rules, even in a war zone, McBride said. The Armed Services Blood Program has 21 blood centers in the United States and overseas. Blood donors must be 18 or older, in good health and free of any blood-borne infectious diseases. The armed services program accepts donations from service members, family members, DOD civilians, contractors and veterans, the colonel said. The typical donation takes about 45 minutes, he said, and it could save the lives of several military brothers or sisters thousands of miles away. “You can help bring them back to their families,” McBride said. The local center for the Armed Services Blood Program is located at Naval Medical Center, Portsmouth. For more information about the Armed Services Blood Program including scheduling an appointment, visit www.militaryblood.dod.mil.
Fox talks readiness, sexual assault, opportunity, ‘Top Gun’ BY DONNA MILES American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON — Acting Deputy Defense Secretary Christine H. Fox shared insights on Dec. 22 into the upbringing that helped lead her to the Pentagon’s No. 2 post and said she’s using that same drive and determination to help the Defense Department tackle pressing issues, ranging from sexual assault to fiscal challenges. Fox, who became the highest-ranking female official in DOD history Dec. 5, never saw her gender as a barrier, she told National Public Radio Weekend Edition Sunday host Rachel Martin. The only child of a nuclear engineer father, Fox said he encouraged her not to shy away from traditionally male pursuits — such as majoring in mathematics at George Mason University in Virginia — simply because she was a woman.
“’You’re good at it, so you should,’” Fox said her father told her.“’If you can do math, you can do anything.’” “When I was starting out [in my career], I actually had that attitude,” Fox said.“I still have that attitude.” Not everyone saw things the same way, especially early in her career. “Things were said and done ... that would not be acceptable today,” she acknowledged.“But what I found is that if I was capable and I could make a contribution and I approached it as,‘I want to help solve a problem and help you be better,’very quickly,in my experience,the gender stuff just fell away.” Fox went on to amass three decades of experience as an analyst and research manager focusing on defense issues, with a special emphasis on operations. While serving at the Center for Naval Analyses in the mid-1980s,Fox gained a bit of unexpected notoriety when she served as the inspiration for Kelly McGillis’ character in the blockbuster “Top Gun” movie.
“The truth is, I had no choice in it, and I wasn’t thrilled. That was the truth,” Fox said of the movie’s portrayal of her as a sexy Top Gun pilot instructor and love interest to “Maverick,” a student played by Tom Cruise. “The producers were looking for some way to cast a female role that both Kelly McGillis Acting Deputy Defense Secretary would accept and the Christine H. Fox admiral I worked for ... would accept,”Fox explained.The producer threw out the — See Fox Page 10
4 JET OBSERVER • January 9, 2014
NRTC launches ‘self-service’ unlocking feature for users BY MCC (EXW/DV/SW/AW) JAYME PASTORIC Center for Personal and Professional Development Public Affairs Unlocking your Non-Resident Training Course (NRTC) online account just got a little easier. NRTC accounts that were inactive for longer then 30 days were locked as a result of network security measures ordered by the Defense Department and U.S. Fleet Cyber Command, which took effect late summer 2013. Because of the large number of unlock requests since then, NRTC staff has implemented a self-service option by using a Command Access Card (CAC) verification, Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) authentication and security question challenge process.This will help alleviate the back log of more than 203,646 requests at the NRTC help desk. “Users who have been locked out due to greater than 30 days inactivity but less than 45 days will be allowed into
their account upon CAC authentication,” said Tom Phillips, Center for Personal and Professional Development NRTC program manager. Users falling in the greater then 45 day inactivity window will receive challenge questions generated from the account holder’s profile. Correctly answering the questions will allow users to update their account and re-enable access. “We have a close working relationship with the developers and programmers of the NRTC website,” said Phillips. “We are continuing to improve the process, while maintaining adherence to mandated security changes.” Through December 2013, the NRTC helpdesk has unlocked more than 11,500 user accounts. Users who are unable to use the self-service unlocking service are encouraged to contact the NRTC helpdesk at CPPD’s Voluntary Education (VOLED) Support Site in Pensacola, Fla., for assistance in regaining access.The VOLED team in Pensacola can be reached anytime via email at
NRTC@navy.mil and Monday through Friday by commercial phone at 1-877-264-8583, or DSN at 753-6070. CPPD is responsible for providing a wide range of personal and professional development courses and materials, including General Military Training, Navy instructor training, alcohol and drug awareness program training, suicide and sexual assault prevention, bystander intervention, and personal responsibility classes. CPPD’s required leadership training is delivered multiple times throughout a Sailor’s career via command-delivered enlisted leadership training material and officer leadership courses in a schoolhouse setting. CPPD also administers the Navy’s voluntary education program, which provides Sailors with the opportunity to earn college degrees. CPPD additionally manages the United Services Military Apprenticeship Program, which offers Sailors the opportunity to earn civilian apprenticeship certifications.
CNO’s 2014 message Navy begins random synthetic marijuana testing to the fleet From Navy Personnel Command Public Affairs
From Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Jonathan Greenert Happy New Year, Shipmates! 2013 was a year of challenges, but it was a year of a lot of successes and you made those successes possible.And that’s why I’m looking forward to 2014. We’re going to be just fine. Now, our Navigation Plan is going to be our guide for 2014. And my resolution is stay on course. Our three tenets will guide us through the year. Warfighting First. We will bring you the capability and technology to get the job done. Operate Forward. We’re going to continue that AsiaPacific rebalance, but we’ll maintain the course and speed — if you will — in the Middle East. And Be Ready. We’ll bring you the training that you need, while at the same time getting away from those degraders from our readiness, such as sexual assault or substance abuse. Throughout it all though, you are our asymmetric advantage. I need you to take care of each other. Look out for each other. And be safe. I want you back at work after the holiday period.And be fit — physically, mentally and morally. In this 2014, we’re going to be where it matters, when it matters.You will be the difference. I’ll see you out there in the fleet. Happy New Year!
requiring no changes to the way they currently collect and ship urine samples for drug testing. In contrast to the MILLINGTON,Tenn. (NNS) — As part of a new Depart- Navy’s previous synthetic drug testing program, no action ment of Defense (DoD) policy, is required by the command to the Navy began testing for synhave random synthetic drug thetic marijuana compounds testing performed on the samduring random urinalysis, offiples that are submitted. cials announced Dec. 31. The DoD estimates that nearly According to NAVADMIN 1 percent of military personnel 334/13, testing for synthetic may be using synthetic marimarijuana compounds will juana. In fiscal year (FY) 2012, be randomly conducted on illicit marijuana use among acsamples submitted to all drug tive duty military personnel was screening laboratories, and 0.43 percent and for the entire positive results will subject DoD, the prevalence rate was members to disciplinary action 0.64 percent.FY 2013 testing for under the Uniform Code of MiliNavy personnel indicated that tary Justice. .09 percent of all samples were The Navy expects to test positive for marijuana. more than 1.1 million samples If a member uses, possesses, this year, and a portion of them promotes, manufactures, or diswill be screened for synthetic tributes synthetic drugs, they marijuana.Those that test potenface disciplinary action that Navy file photo by MC1 Mark Logico could result in unfavorable sepatially positive will be forwarded to the Air Force Drug Testing The Navy began testing for synthetic marijuana com- ration from the Navy.According Laboratory at Lackland,Texas for pounds during random urinalysis, officials announced to Parker, the Navy’s policy on Dec. 31. The testing is part of a new DoD policy. Spice, confirmation. substance abuse is zero tolershown in this 2012 photo for Criminal Investigative “We are testing synthetic canance. Division at Commander, Navy Region Hawaii, looks nabinoids — also known as “Substance abuse puts lives similar to marijuana or oregano and is used for its Spice, K2, Herbal Essence and psychoactive and hallucinogenic effects. and missions at risk, undercuts other names — within the stanunit readiness and morale, and dard testing panel conducted for is inconsistent with our Navy urinalysis samples,” said Lanorfeia Parker, deputy director, ethos and core values of honor, courage, and commitment,” Navy Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention Office (NADAP). said Parker. The change will be largely transparent to the command,
January 9, 2014 • JET OBSERVER 5
2014 resolutions: Resolve to protect against flu BY DEBORAH R. KALLGREN Naval Medical Center Portsmouth
Little Creek-Fort Story offers flu vaccines 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday; flu vaccines are also available on Wednesdays from 8:30 a.m. to noon. Oceana Branch Clinic offers flu immunizations from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Monday,Tuesday,Thursday and Friday; and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesdays. Dam Neck Branch Clinic offers flu vaccines Monday through Thursday, 7:30 to 11:30 a.m. and 1 to 2:30 p.m. Hours on Friday are 7:30 to 11 a.m. Norfolk Naval Shipyard Branch Clinic offers flu vaccines from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. Northwest Branch Clinic offers flu vaccines from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday. Yorktown Branch Clinic offers flu vaccines Monday through Thursday, 7:30 to 11:30 a.m. and 1 to 2:30 p.m.; and on Fridays, 7:30 to 11:30 a.m. Beneficiaries enrolled to TRICARE Prime clinics in Virginia Beach and Chesapeake should call to make an appointment for their flu vaccines. For a downloadable version of the flu vaccine schedule, go to the NMCP website at www.med. navy.mil/sites/NMCP.
Start off 2014 in a healthful way by resolving to protect you and your family members from the flu. With influenza now widespread in Virginia, it’s not too late to visit Naval Medical Center Portsmouth or its branch clinics for an annual flu vaccine. It takes approximately two weeks to fully protect the immune system from the strains in this year’s vaccine.This season’s FluMist protects against four strains of influenza.The injectable vaccine protects against three strains of flu. Flu immunizations are available at the main medical center in Portsmouth at the Immunizations Clinic from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday,Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday.The clinic opens at 9 a.m. on Thursdays. Naval Station Norfolk Branch Clinic (formerly Sewells Point Clinic) offers flu vaccines Monday through Thursday, 8 to 11 a.m. and 1 to 2:30 p.m.; and on Fridays, 8 to 11 a.m. Adm. Joel T. Boone Branch Clinic at Joint Base
Jet Observer file photo by MC2 (SW) Alysia R. Hernandez
While flu vaccines were administered to active duty personnel at NAS Oceana in the fall, it’s not too late to protect yourself this year by getting either the shot or FluMist. HN Warren Vannortwick gives NAS Oceana Command Master Chief Eric Clark his annual influenza vaccine at Oceana Sept. 23.
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6 JET OBSERVER • January 9, 2014
SAILOR’S SERVICE spans multiple military branches BY CATHY HEIMER Jet Observer Across the Navy,there are Sailors who have served in another branch of the military before entering the sea service.But very few Sailors have the distinction that Master-at-Arms (MA) 1st Class (SW) Carlos Rivera has. By the time Rivera enlisted in the Navy in 2001, he had already served in the Marine Corps,Air National Guard and Army, as well as with the Department of Justice as an immigration inspector. Rivera, who retired Dec. 19 during a ceremony at the Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training Unit Oceana, has accrued 25 years in four different services.With service members from the Army, Navy and Marine Corps in attendance, his ceremony reflected his unique military career. “Every four to six years, I was changing jobs. For some reason, it fulfilled me to see if I could do a different job, so that’s why I have done multiple services,” he explained about his career. Photo by MCSN Kayla King Rivera reported to NAS Oceana Security in 2011, where he worked as a watch com- During his retirement Dec. 19, MA1 (SW) Carlos Rivera (r) is presented his shadowbox by NAS mander and as a gate guard. His first Navy assignment was on USS Bataan (LHD 5), fol- Oceana Security Officer Lt. Malvin Fikes. The shadowbox commemorates the four branches of lowed by JointTask Force Guantanamo Bay,Cuba,then Naval Station Norfolk.Shortly after service Rivera has served in since first enlisting in the Marine Corps in 1988. After serving the Marine Corps, Air National Guard and Army, Rivera enlisted in the Navy in 2001 and reported — See Rivera page 9 to NAS Oceana in 2011.
January 9, 2014 • JET OBSERVER 7
Hospital visitors asked to wear masks to protect from flu In an effort to protect patients, visitors and medical staff from the spread of u, effective Jan. 7, hospitals and health care systems began strongly recommending all patients and visitors wear a mask upon entering hospitals, freestanding emergency departments, urgent care centers and branch clinics, including patients seeking outpatient services at hospitals. A mask is also strongly recommended on arrival for patients and family members seeking care at associated physician practices. This strong recommendation comes at a time when seasonal inuenza cases in Virginia have reached the widespread level, which the Virginia Department of Health and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention cite as the highest level of u activity. Since vaccines are not 100 percent effective, patients and visitors entering the facilities who have already had a u vaccine are still strongly encouraged to wear a mask, as an added protection for themselves and their loved ones. Medical evidence suggests infected persons can transmit the virus as much as 24 hours before displaying symptoms. This recommendation will help protect patients, visitors and staff from exposure to u, even before symptoms occur. Masks and hand sanitizer will be provided at most facility entrances for public use. Hospitals and health systems are also asking individuals displaying symptoms of inuenza-like illness not to visit patients at area hospitals. Symptoms of u include fe-
ver and respiratory illness such as cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle aches, chills and sometimes vomiting and diarrhea. The recommendation to wear a mask when entering health care facilities will remain in effect during the u season and while prevalence of u in the region is extraordinarily high.Other safety measures to prevent the spread of u could be considered as the u season continues. Local participating hospitals and emergency departments Bon Secours DePaul Medical Center Bon Secours Mary Immaculate Hospital Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center Bon Secours Health Center at Harbour View Chesapeake Regional Medical Center Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters Naval Medical Center Portsmouth Riverside Doctors’ Hospital Riverside Regional Medical Center Sentara CarePlex Hospital and Orthopaedic Hospital at Sentara CarePlex Sentara Leigh Hospital Sentara Norfolk General Hospital and Sentara Heart Hospital Sentara Obici Hospital Sentara Princess Anne Hospital Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center Sentara freestanding emergency departments at BelleHarbour, Port Warwick and Independence
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Monthly specials at thrift shop The NAS OceanaThrift Shop,located in building 419 on Hornet Drive,next to bachelor housing, offers great deals and monthly specials on military uniforms, clothing for adults and children, household goods and much more. Active duty can take advantage of the special on uniforms;all pants,shirts and skirts are buy one, get one free. During the last week of every month, shoppers can save even more, with the exception of uniform items. For just $7, shoppers can ďŹ ll a brown, commissary-size paper bag or $30 for a shopping cart with anything and everything in the store. The store also accepts donations.A drop box is located in front of the building or items can be brought inside during store hours.The store is operated by volunteers from the Navy Wives Club of America, Princess Anne 143 and proceeds from items sold beneďŹ t military families and the local community. Current hours are Monday, Thursday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Wednesday, 7 - 9 p.m. The store’s phone number is 433-2193.
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January 9, 2014 • JET OBSERVER 9
8 JET OBSERVER • January 9, 2014 y ,
Milittary families treated to holidday shopping experience
Rivera: Enjoyed challenge of serving in different branches
STORY/PHOTO OS BY MCSN KAYLA KING NAS Oceana Public Affairs
ABOVE/BOTTOM RIGHT: Children from NAS Oceana’s Kinder program sing Christmas carols for the commanding officer, command master chief and staff of building 230. BOTTOM LEFT: NAS Oceana Commanding Officer Capt. Kit Chope and Command Master Chief (AW/SW/EXW) Eric Clark hand out gifts to children from the Kinder program Dec. 20.
Photos by MCSN Kayla King
Red Rippers demonstrate the joy of giving BY LT. ADAM FISEL VFA-11 Public Affairs Officer In the spirit of the holiday season, the“Red Rippers”of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 11 took up collections within its ranks to donate to local charities. The VFA-11 Chief Petty Officer (CPO) 365 Sailors, consisting of 19 chiefs and 32 first class petty officers, led the charge with a coat and blanket drive. More than 200 jackets, sweatshirts, hoodies and blankets were collected by VFA-11 personnel throughout the month of November. The items were donated to Union Ministries of Hampton Roads. “The CPO 365 program’s participation in the coat drive is in keeping with the true spirit of developing leaders, while having a positive influence on the community,” said VFA-11 Command Master Chief (NAC/AW) Lawrence Barbrey. Officers from the Red Rippers also assisted in holiday giving, organizing a Photo provided squadron toy drive to benefit the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve’s Toys for Tots From left, Lt. j.g. Andrew McFarland, Lt. Ashley Farina and Cmdr. Craig Bangor, VFA-11 Foundation. Collection boxes were set up around the command so that every executive officer, pose for a photo with toys collected by the “Red Rippers” during the member could donate. Lt.Ashley Farina and Lt. Laura Anderson coordinated holidays for the Toys for Tots Foundation. the effort throughout November and December, resulting in the collection and donation of more than 50 toys.
The Veteranss of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 392 took eight miliitary families shopping at the Navy Exchange (NEX X) at NavalAir Station (NAS) Oceana Dec. 21. In the past, tthe VFW post in Virginia Beach donated to the “SShop with a Cop” program that provides a holidayy shopping trip for selected families. In 2010, the po ost commander at the time, decided to change it to o “Shop with a Veteran,” taking the families shopping with a $50 limit per child. “We have to o give away so much money a year, so we were giving it to Shop with a Cop,” said VFW Post Com mmander Mike Gaughan. He added that while thatt was a worthwhile cause, it made more sense to o keep the money within the post and allow the veterans to take military families shopping. With the hellp of the Hampton Roads Squadron, Association of Naval Aviation (HRANA), the post had about $1,7 700 to spend.Gaughan said they will save some of th he money for next year,but because of the extra m money, they increased the shopping amount to $10 00 per child.. For the shop pping trip, each family was accompanied by a meember of VFW 392.Thirteen volunteers from the V VFW assisted 24 individuals, including 17 children n.With the families heading straight to the toy secttion in the NEX, it didn’t take long to fill the shop pping carts. “It doesn’t take much to spend $100 0 bucks, especially for kids,” said Gaughan. “We let the kids loose, and they can buy for themselves, forr their brother, mother or whoever. It’s up to them m.They are some smart shoppers.To watch this thin ng, it will bring tears to your eyes,” said Gaughan. For the famillies, this was a great opportunity to give their child dren an unforgettable holiday. “We’re going g to have to buy a lot of wrapping paper,” said Infformation Systems Technician 2nd Class Robert A Adams, attached to Fleet Readiness Center Mid-Attlantic, whose children benefitted from the shopp ping trip. As parents guided their children through the store,they repeeatedly let their children know how much money tthey had left.The generosity of the organization gaave the parents peace of mind and the children so omething to look forward to. “This prograam benefits me in so many ways.I’m a single parent of three kids,”said Interior Communications Electtrician 2nd Class (SW/AW) Krystle
MA1 (SW) Carlos Rivera poses for a photo with his wife Amy after his retirement ceremony Dec. 19.
A volunteer helps Naveen Murph, 6, reach a toy from the top shelf while shopping with the VFW Post 392 at Navy Exchange at Oceana.
Jade Adams, 7, poses for a picture while shopping with the VFA Post 392 at Navy Exchange at Oceana Dec. 22. Murph, attached to USS Gerald R. Ford, (CVN 78). “It helps me provide for them and give them what they really want. Right now, I only give them what they need,so this organization is really helping me give them what they really want.” “Seeing the smiles on their face makes me even happier…Thinking about it makes me speechless. You want to give your child everything they ask for. It’s hard sometimes, but now they can actually pick out whatever they want,” said Murph. “VFW is so good at knowing where to go. So, that is why we let them spend the money for us, and this you know is appreciated.These kids were really excited,” said retired Rear Adm. Fred Metz from HRANA.
— Continued from page 6 reporting to Norfolk, he was sent TAD to Djibouti, Africa to serve as a protective service agent, which is his Navy Enlisted Classification (NEC), earned at the Army’s Protective Service School in Missouri. Born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Rivera explained it was “my sense of patriotism,” that brought him into the military. Although one of the first members of his family to serve, Rivera said even as a small child, he was always fascinated by anything to do with the military. So by the time he turned 19, Rivera had left his hometown of Carolina, Puerto Rico and enlisted in the Marines in 1988. “I needed a challenge…I liked the Marines and the Marine way of life,” explained Rivera. As an infantryman, he deployed to Okinawa and then to Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, completing a combat tour in 1990-1991 in support of Desert Shield/Desert Storm. With a new baby on the way and career options that included an unaccompanied tour, Rivera chose to leave active duty in 1992.“It was deploy, deploy, deploy,” he said. Within six months of leaving active service, Rivera was hired by the Department of Justice and graduated from the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in 1993.Always looking for a challenge,Rivera also joined the 156th Engineer Squadron with the Air National Guard, where he spent three years. As an immigration inspector, Rivera sometimes interviewed more than 500 people daily who were trying to enter the U.S. through airports or sea ports, which also provided an opportunity to meet many celebrities. “It was very great but a challenge to know that I was one of the youngest inspectors.
I was only 23-years-old but I had a position title that was pretty high for my age,” he said about his job, with a civilian paygrade of GS9. But the military retirees he worked with at the Department of Justice inspired Rivera to take a huge pay cut and return to active duty in 1998 — this time enlisting in the Army.But he admitted that in the back of his mind, he was already thinking about joining the Navy. “I wanted to do this and my family supported me,”he said about his decision to join the Army, where as an infantryman, he was stationed at Fort Lewis,Wash. Rivera had left the Marine Corps as an E-4, a paygrade that he retained while with the Air National Guard and the Army.The biggest difference was that his date of rank was reset each time he enlisted.It would take him until 2001 when he graduated from the Navy’s MA “A” School that he would make E-5. “Because of my job, my background in law enforcement that I was able to get E-5,” he explained. What kept him in the Navy for 12 years is “it’s easy to work with the people…I take great pride and honor in being part of ship’s rescue efforts, deployment, combat. It’s worldwide service. It’s what fulfills me. It’s not about the pay. It’s about honor and country,” he said. But Rivera’s not done serving his country yet. He’s moving to Chicago, where his second wife Amy resides, and is looking into making use of his Navy NEC in protective service to begin a civilian career with the Coast Guard. Why the Coast Guard and not the Navy? “I need a new challenge,” he joked.
10 JET OBSERVER • January 9, 2014
Fox: Became highest ranking female ofďŹ cial in DOD history Dec. 5 — Continued from page 3 idea of an aerobics instructor. Fox’s commander wouldn’t allow that character to be a naval ofďŹ cer. He recommended what he called “the perfect solutionâ€? for the female role, a civilian contractor serving as a Top Gun pilot instructor modeled after the tall, blonde and highly-respected Fox. Fox said she was able to provide some input into the character, spending a day with McGillis to explain her work and how she operated. Hollywood “really sensationalized the position,â€? she said, particularly the part about Cruise’s romance with McGillis —“which was different, obviously, than what I was doing there.â€? McGillis recognized how different the character she was playing was from the real Fox. “I remember being called over to the set,â€? Fox said. “She stomped up to me and stuck her leg out, and she was wearing black seamed stockings for the initial scene,â€? when the “Charlieâ€? character dramatically walks into a room full ofTop Gun student pilots. “I’ll bet you would never wear these to
work here,â€?McGillis said, according to Fox. nate sexual assault in the military. “Sexual assault is obviously an egregious Fox said she looked at McGillis and said, “You know what? Seamed stockings are and complex problem,â€? Fox said, but emphasized DOD’s commitment to confrontnot part of my daily attire.You are right.â€? ing it. Fox said McGillis “I learned when I looked at the crew Âł:KDW , IRXQG LV WKDW LI , ZDV was ďŹ rst in the Penon the set and said, “See, I told you.â€?And FDSDEOH DQG , FRXOG PDNH D FRQ tagon working for the crew, Fox said, all WULEXWLRQ DQG , DSSURDFKHG LW DV Âľ, Secretary [Robert M.] Gates that if you realsaid,“Too bad.â€? ZDQW WR KHOS VROYH D SUREOHP DQG ly want to tackle very, In her far-more KHOS \RX EH EHWWHU Âś YHU\ TXLFNO\ LQ very tough things in serious role today as P\ H[SHULHQFH WKH JHQGHU VWXII MXVW this behemoth orgaDefense Secretary Chuck Hagel’s depuIHOO DZD\ ´ nization, it takes the secretary to take it on ty defense secretary, Fox has the real-life Âł &KULVWLQH + )R[ personally,â€? she said. “Secretary Hagel has responsibility of $FWLQJ 'HSXW\ 'HIHQVH 6HFUHWDU\ done that with sexual advancing, among assault. He owns this other issues, Hagel’s problem. He has recrackdown on sexuquired all kind of things of the force. al assault in the military. “The service chiefs are doing the same The recently passed 2014 Defense Authorization Act includes provisions that thing,â€? Fox continued. “They see it. They require DOD to strengthen protections are concerned about it and they are ownfor victims of sexual assault, and President ing the problem.â€? The challenge for the service leadership, Barack Obama recently announced a yearlong review of the progress made to elimi- she said, is ďŹ guring out how to solve it
within their services. Fox said she regrets that she can’t simply rattle off a list of the top three things they should be doing but aren’t. “I wish I could, because if I could, they would do them,â€? she said.“But I am conďŹ dent that we are going to keep tackling it until we ďŹ nd those things and we do them.â€? Budget reductions represent another big challenge Fox is focusing on in her new post.The reductions impact “all aspects of defense,â€? she said, and require every service branch to come up with the best way to maintain their readiness posture. Fox used the analogy of a parent whose teenage son plans to set out for a long drive in the middle of the winter. After making sure the teenager knows how to drive, the next step in preparation is to tune up the car so it wouldn’t break down along the way. “It is the same thing for ying planes or operating ships,â€? Fox said. “So ultimately, all the services need to ďŹ nd a level where they can keep that balance. And that is what we are trying to ďŹ gure out right now.â€?
Navy Cash/Marine Cash cardholders are protected from Target data breach From Naval Supply Systems Command WASHINGTON (NNS) — Navy ofďŹ cials said Sailors and Marines who used their Navy Cash/Marine Cash cards at any U.S.Target stores between Nov. 27 and Dec. 15, 2013, are not liable for any transactions that occur as a result of the unauthorized access to card data reported by Target Corporation in December. Navy Cash/Marine Cash cardholders affected by the breach are protected by the card networks and Regulation E [http://www.cfpb.gov/], which sets rules,liabilities,and procedures for electronic funds transfers and establishes customer protections associated with using electronic funds transfers. “We partner with the U.S. Department of the Treasury and its ďŹ nancial agent to manage the Navy Cash/Marine Cash program,â€? said Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) Commander Rear Adm. Jonathan Yuen.“Data reports show 58 cardholders used their Navy Cash/Marine Cash cards at TargetÂŽ stores during the affected period. These accounts have been agged and are being monitored for unusual activity.â€? Disbursing ofďŹ cers on ships with members impacted by the breach are being notiďŹ ed to issue new cards to affected cardholders. Navy Cash/Marine Cash combines a chip-based
electronic purse (stored-value function) with a traditional magnetic strip (debit card and ATM function). The electronic purse replaces currency aboard ships. The magnetic strip and branded debit features afford users access to funds in their Navy Cash/Marine Cash accounts worldwide via Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) and point-ofsale (POS) devices at merchants who accept debit cards. Cashless ATMs aboard ship provide 24-hour-aday, seven-day-a-week access to Navy Cash/Marine CashÂŽ accounts. The cashless ATMs also provide off-line access to accounts at ďŹ nancial institutions ashore and the ability to move money electronically to and from Navy Cash/Marine Cash accounts and those ďŹ nancial institution accounts. “We are deeply concerned about the inconvenience the data breach may have caused our Sailors and Marines,â€?Yuen added.“We take this matter very seriously and are doing all we can to ensure our Sailors’ and Marines’ privacy and information is protected now and in the future.â€? For questions regarding speciďŹ c transactions, military members should contact: Navy Cash/Marine Cash U.S. Navy ďŹ le photo by MCSN Darien G. Kenney Transaction Services Unit Seaman Kenneth Wood, from Toledo, Ohio, prepares to put money on a Navy Tel: (866) 362-8922; fax: (888) 344-3796 Cash card aboard the guided-missile cruiser USS Hue City (CG 66). email: Navy Cash@ezpaymt.com
January 9, 2014 • JET OBSERVER 11
CVW-3: Wikoff relieves Joyner as commander
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Capt. Sara Joyner, commander, CVW-3, of Hoopers Island, Md.; and Lt. Cmdr. Eddy DePuy, of Tallahassee, Fla., exit an E-2C Hawkeye from the “Seahawks” of VAW-126, on the flight deck of USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) Dec. 14. Command of CVW3 changed hands during a Dec. 22 ceremony on Harry S. Truman, when Joyner was relieved by Capt. George Wikoff, who previously served as deputy commander, CVW-3.
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— Continued from page 1 the energy was back, the teamwork was there and there was no doubt that our warfighting capabilities were honed. I can’t be more proud of the Battle Axe and Truman team - they weathered the storm, seized the opportunity and triumphed over adversity,” she said.. Joyner spoke highly of Wikoff as he prepared to take command of CVW-3. “Capt. Wikoff is one of the most dedicated and capable officers I have had the pleasure of working with during my 24 year career. I know that he along with his DCAG (deputy commander), Capt. [Jeffrey] Anderson, will make an incredibly effective team.He has clear vision, understands where to take the air wing next and sets a high bar,” she said. Joyner will be assigned to Commander,Naval Air Force Atlantic. Wikoff, who has deployed six times on four aircraft
carriers, has served as commanding officer for Strike Fighter Squadron 122, and attended and instructed at the U.S. Navy Fighter Weapons School, also known as “Top Gun.” “Joyner will leave a legacy of leadership grounded in a genuine respect and appreciation for the contributions by every member of the Battle Axe Team. I am excited to be a member of this high performing team and look forward to the next 18 months as CAG (commander, CVW-3). We will remain focused on the tasks at hand, supporting Soldiers, Marines,Airmen and Sailors on the ground in Afghanistan with the precision in execution demanded on every sortie,” he said. Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group is deployed to the U.S.5th Fleet area of operations conducting maritime security operations, supporting theater security cooperation efforts and supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
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12 JET OBSERVER • January 9, 2014
COMMUNITY CALENDAR » » »» » »»» » »» HAMPTON ROADS INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW Jan. 10 - 12 The state’s biggest annual new-car rollout will take place this weekend at the Virginia Beach Convention Center (VBCC). Put on by the Hampton Roads Automobile Association (HRADA), the show educates the public about everything that’s new and exciting in the world of automotive. The show occupies every inch of VBCC floor space and outside displays to accommodate all the factories inventories. Virtually every car and truck manufacturer has exhibition space, and every HRADA dealer member’s best sales staff are on hand to answer the public’s questions. What makes the show unique is that it’s not a selling event. There are no sales negotiations within the VBCC. The public sees all the makes and models in one climatecontrolled location, without any pressure to buy. HRADA experts will present a vehicle’s benefits and available options at the show,and meet interested buyers at their stores later to discuss price and purchase. Highlights include “The Ultimate Convertible” contest, where one lucky convertible owner will win $1,000, the Golden Gecko Award and have his/her car crowned “The Ultimate Convertible.”Nine finalists will receive $100 each and a framed certificate.All finalists cars will be on display throughout the show, where the general public will vote for their favorite car. The winner will be named on Sunday at 4 p.m. All voters are eligible for prizes, with the grand prize a gas card worth $500. Show hours are Jan. 10 - 11,10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Jan. 12,10 a.m.to 6 p.m.Admission is $9 for adults and children over 12; free for under 12; $6 for 65 and over and military with ID card. Parking is free. For more information, visit www.hrautoshow.com.
WINTER WELLNESS WEEK Jan. 21 - 24 Primeplus Norfolk Senior Center is offering the Hampton Roads community the opportunity to make a commitment to their health in 2014. During Winter Wellness Week, members are invited to focus on their health and bring a friend to check out one of many Primeplus exercise programs. Classes are designed for those who may have been on the workout sidelines, as well as those who are actively involved with some type of fitness, but who want to change it up for the New Year. Wellness classes are offered from the chair, as well as on the floor, including yoga, ballroom dancing, Stretch, Flex and Tone classes, Too-Fit-To-Quit (low impact aerobics), pool walking and balance and agility classes. From Core-on-the-Floor balance enhancement to “Rocking Out with Rocky” line dancing, there is something for everyone. The offer is good Jan.21 - 24 only and is limited one friend per member on select classes. Primeplus Norfolk Senior Center provides a variety of programs for the senior community. The annual member-
Join the Chief Petty Officers Scholarship Foundation at the fourth annual Best of the Mess competition, Jan. 24 at the Founders Inn, Virginia Beach. The Best of the Mess features six teams from local commands who face off to see who has the sharpest culinary skills on the waterfront. All proceeds benefit the CPOSF, a 501(c)3 organization. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at www.cposf.org for $40 each or $75 for two, and must be purchased prior to the event. This year’s teams will be defending champions from the Naval Station Norfolk Galley along with COMSUBLANT, NAS Oceana, USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72), USS George H. W. Bush (CVN 77) and USS Oak Hill (LSD 51). Each team will prepare a tasting menu inspired by “A Taste of Tuscany.” Menus will be evaluated by a panel of judges selected by the Culinary Institute of Virginia, School of Culinary Arts of CS2 Tad Pooler from Commander, Submarine Forces, prepares straw- ECPI University. There will be a first, second and berries flambe as his dessert entry during the Best of the Mess Chal- third place winner, as well as a people’s choice award, determined through audience votes. For lenge competition in 2011. Navy News file photo by MC1 Todd A. Schaffer more information, visit www.cposf.org.
Best of the Mess Competition
ship fee is $50 and some classes require additional fees and pre-registration. All activities take place in the senior center within the Norfolk Fitness and Wellness Center at 7300 Newport Ave., Norfolk. Call 625-5857 or visit www.primeplus.org for more information.
WINTER WILDLIFE FESTIVAL Jan. 24 - 26 This is your chance to witness winter wildlife all around Virginia Beach; whether it’s following fascinating bird activity, exploring the natural areas of the community or the musings of harbor seals near the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel. Learn what it takes to properly observe and identify wildlife in their natural settings. In addition to the outdoor excursions, the event features free educational workshops, children’s activities and an exhibit hall at Princess Anne Recreation Center.The festival kicks off Jan. 24 with keynote speaker, Noah Strycker, associate editor of Birding magazine, well-known writer and “bird man.” Strycker will discuss his latest project,“Bird World,” a book about the fascinating parallels between bird and human behavior. Registration is available in-person at any Virginia Beach Recreation Center or by mailing in a registration form. Past participants and recreation center members can use EZreg to register online with their client barcode and family PIN. For a complete schedule and online registration, visit www.vbgov.com/government/ departments/parks-recreation/special-events/ Pages/winter-wildlife-festival.
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January 9, 2014 • JET OBSERVER 13
SPORTS & FITNESS » » » » » » »
Fitness 2014 SOMETIMES MY HUMAN DOESN’T WEAR PANTS AT HOME. IT’S A RIOT. —COLBY adopted 06-18-11
Photo by MC2 (SW) Alysia R. Hernandez
Patrons at the MWR Fitness and Sports Center at Oceana take advantage of weight training equipment to get into shape Jan. 6. The fitness centers at both Oceana and Dam Neck offer a variety of classes and programs to assist ID card holders in reaching their 2014 fitness goals. For more information, call the Oceana center at 433-2695 or Dam Neck at 492-6101.
Upcoming community events Paddle the Border Registration is now open for the 11th Annual Paddle for the Border. Paddle the Dismal Swamp Canal from the North Carolina Welcome Center and State Park in South Mills, to the Ballahack Boat Ramp in Chesapeake. Volunteers help participants with their boats and shuttle buses carry paddlers from one site to the other. It is open to 325 boats, mainly canoes and kayaks (no motors).A continental breakfast is provided in the morning and a catered picnic lunch awaits paddlers at the end. Paddle the Border will be May 3. The cost is $40, which includes a T-shirt. Hats can be purchased for an additional $15. For more information, contact Gladys Jones at 382-6411 or www.CityofChesapeake.net/ PADDLE.
Rec centers open house Virginia Beach Parks & Recreation will offer their biggest open house, Jan. 18 - 19, which will be completely free and open to everyone. No membership is required and each recreation center will have various
classes and programs to sample. Try out everything from Zumba and TRX to kettlebells and yoga. There will also be demos of the new class, BodyPump. Along with the fitness opportunities, there will be free children’s activities and family fun,with games and tournaments in the gym and in the pool for varying age groups. For those thinking of joining the recreation centers, but weren’t quite sure what was offered, this is a chance to try it all for free. Current members are encouraged to bring friends and family to experience the fun. Enter to win a $150 parks & recreation gift card that can be used toward an annual membership, group fitness classes, swimming lessons, kayak tours, shelter reservations, birthday parties and more. In addition to the activities at the recreation centers, select parks will be offering pickleball and disc golf demos. Check the schedule at www.vbgov.com/government/ departments/parks-recreation for times and locations.
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14 JET OBSERVER • January 9, 2014
FLEET & FAMILY SUPPORT CENTER WORKSHOPS
» » »» » »»» FEDERAL EMPLOYMENT SYSTEM Jan. 10, 9 a.m. to noon Gain the advantage in your job search with the federal government by learning how to find vacancies and job listings, complete the application process,and how to understand standard qualifications and testing requirements.
FINANCIAL LEADERSHIP SEMINAR Jan. 13, 7:30 - 11:30 a.m. This training provides a basic understanding of typical military financial problems, develops skills in handling a financial crisis, and creates an awareness of resources available. Agenda includes budgeting and Personal Financial Management (PFM), consumer awareness, legal issues, processing letters of indebtedness, garnishments and more.
RETIREMENT PLANNING Jan. 13, 12:30 - 2 p.m. This program introduces the basic concepts of financial retirement planning, including the military retirement system and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
SAVINGS AND INVESTMENTS Jan. 13, 2 - 3:30 p.m. This program is designed to develop more in-depth knowledge and skills that will enable participants to save and invest wisely. Explore various investment options and learn which instrument best suits you and your individual goal.
SMOOTH MOVE WORKSHOP Jan. 14, 9 a.m. to noon Topics include hints on shipping household goods, travel and financial planning, entitlements, family preparation and ways
to cope with relocation. Open to all active duty, retiring, and separating military personnel and their families.
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BY WALLY BARSTOW Fleet & Family Support Center NorThis workshop includes strategies for folk Financial Educator
PARENTING IN A MILITARY FAMILY Jan. 14 - 15, 9 - 11:30 a.m.
encouraging children to behave appropriately, communicating in ways that really work, and increasing cooperation. Participants discuss attention-seeking behaviors and how parents can best respond to them. Additional topics include child development, temperament, expecting and giving respect, and the impact that a military lifestyle has on children.
STEP: SCHOOLAGE Jan. 14 - 15, 9 - 11:30 a.m. Systematic Training for Effective Parenting (STEP): Schoolage offers participants a wealth of information and skills for parenting 5 to 12-year-olds. Learn ways to help your children become more responsible, respectful and cooperative.Topics include communication, discipline, the goals of misbehavior, mutual respect and family meetings.
BEAMS Jan. 14 - 30, 2- 4 p.m. Building Effective Anger Management Skills or BEAMS is a six-session, skill-building program for active duty.The BEAMS course is designed to prevent anger from escalating to violence.Participants learn to develop new and effective coping strategies. Workshop meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
OVERSEAS TRANSFER WORKSHOP Jan. 15, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Information will be provided on household goods and auto shipment, financial planning, travel arrangements and passports, personal security, and culture shock. Open to active duty and family members 12 years and older.
EFFECTIVE RESUME WRITING Jan. 15, 9 a.m. to noon Learn how to market your skills, knowledge, accomplishments and experience with an impressive resume.This workshop includes tips on translating military terminology.
Fleet and Family Support Center Oceana is located in Building 531. It offers a variety of programs and workshops to assist active duty and their families. Registration is required for most programs. Call FFSC at 433-2912 for more information or registration, unless otherwise noted or register online at www.cnic.navy.mil/navylifema.
Recent data from the housing industry tracking firm CoreLogic indicates the number of homes ending up in foreclosure has started to decline significantly. That sounds like good news for a country weary of the enormous backlog of delinquent borrowers. However, the reason for the drop appears to be the increasing popularity of short sales, where a homeowner sells their dwelling for less than the balance on the mortgage with the lender’s approval. Prior to the housing crisis, short sales were rare. But for today’s homeowner locked in a house that has declined in value, a short sale is often the only alternative. For the mortgage company it can represent a more efficient and lucrative alternative to foreclosure where a house often sells for much less. Also according to Corelogic statistics, home prices are discounted an average of 24 percent during a short sale, but 64 percent in a foreclosure. In order to proceed with a short sale, the first step is to gain the approval of the lender. For those in the military with a Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac loan, this is already done. Homeowners who receive permanent change of station (PCS) orders will be eligi-
ble to sell their homes in a short sale even if they are current on their mortgage. Service members can check Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac websites at http://www. fanniemae.com or http://www.freddiemac.com to see if their loans are held by them or they can call hotlines for military homeowners at 1-877-MIL4566 or 1-800-FREDDIE. Even when the mortgage is not owned by Fannie or Freddie, a short sale can be pursued. The next step in the process is to find a buyer. It can be challenging, but increasingly, there exists a pool of real estate agents who are practiced and comfortable working within the confines of a short sale. Typically, a short sale will create a blemish on a credit report that can damage a credit score, even to the point of making another home purchase difficult in the near future. But the short-term hit on the credit report may be preferable to a home that a relocated service member can no longer live in. Fleet & Family Support Centers across Hampton Roads host a VHDA Homeownership workshop designed to take the mystery out of buying a home. Get your questions answered about short sales. Visit www.cnic.navy.mil/navylifema or call the NAS Oceana FFSC at 433-2912 to register for a homeownership class.
Scholarships available Scholarships for Military Children Applications for the 2014 Scholarships for Military Children Program are available at commissaries worldwide or on the Internet at www.militaryscholar.org. Applications must be turned in to a commissary by close of business Feb. 28. Packages must be hand-delivered or mailed, not emailed or faxed. This year’s award amount has risen to $2,000, and the program awards at least one scholarship at each commissary with qualified applicants. For more information, call the scholarship managers at (856)616-9311 or email them at militaryscholar@scholarshipmanagers.com.
Wings Over America Wings Over America is sponsoring college scholarships to dependent children and spouses of Navy service members in naval aviation. Scholarships are open to family members of officers and enlisted,active duty,retired, honorably discharged or deceased military members.Those applying for the first time must pre-qualify by March 1.The application will be due in its entirety by April 1. For more information and an application, visit www.wingsoveramerica.com.
January 9, 2014 • JET OBSERVER 15
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16 JET OBSERVER • January 9, 2014
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