OCEANA RECOGNIZES SAILORS OF THE QUARTER PAGE 4 VOLUME 52 NO. 32
AUGUST 9, 2012
SERVING NAVAL AIR STATION OCEANA
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DAM NECK ANNEX
CHAMBERS FIELD
Feds Feed Families drive underway at Oceana, Dam Neck
INSIDEJET
BY CATHY HEIMER Jet Observer
CHANGE OF COMMAND AT NAVAL STATION
PAGE 3
JOHN RETURNING TO OCEANA AIR SHOW
PAGE 8 The Liberty Program will sponsor a trip to a local range for pistol qualifications on Aug. 14. Transportation departs from Oceana Great Escape and Dam Neck Oasis clubs at 4 p.m. Cost is $37. Call 433-2981 or 492-6808 for information, reservations.
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Photo by Harry Gerwien
Lt. Cmdr. Jon Biehl finally has the opportunity to hold son, Bo, 3 months old during VFA-34’s arrival back at the NAS Oceana flightline Aug. 3. Also greeting him are his wife, Stephanie and daughter Ella, 8. The “Blue Blasters” left in December for what turned out to be an eight-month deployment on the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72).
‘BLUE BLASTERS’ COMPLETE EIGHT MONTH, AROUND THE WORLD DEPLOYMENT BY LT. TIMOTHY E. BREEN VFA-34 Public Affairs Aviators from the “Blue Blasters” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 34 aircraft returned to NAS Oceana Aug. 3, while the rest of the squadron pulled into Norfolk aboard USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72), Aug. 7, after a combat deployment, assigned to Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 2. While on cruise, the Blasters took an around-the-world journey, departing from San Diego and safely returned to their East Coast home as Lincoln prepares for an overhaul at the Newport News Shipbuilding. The Blasters embarked aboard Abraham Lin-
coln and departed in early December 2011 on an expected five-month deployment. Given the increased tensions in the Arabian Gulf and the continuing mission in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF), VFA-34 along with the rest of CVW-2 rose to the challenge when asked to extend their presence twice, increasing their deployment to eight months. VFA-34’s mission and motto is to achieve “Victory in Combat,” which is precisely what the officers and Sailors were dedicated to achieving. “We supported OEF by loading up 10 combat ready aircraft that were fully mission capable of dropping precision guided munitions — See VFA-34, Page 9
Oceana and Dam Neck personnel are stepping up to the plate during the Feds Feed Families food drive to make sure less fortunate Hampton Roads residents don’t go hungry this summer. In just three short weeks, nearly 6,000 pounds of food and several cash donations have been collected at NAS Oceana and Dam Neck Annex for the annual Department of Defense food drive, which runs through Aug. 31. “Last year, we received an outstanding response from our local Navy institutions and federal employees, helping us get through the challenging summer months.We hope to build on their efforts this year to serve even more families in need,” explained Abby Weber, food and fund drive coordinator for the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia, in an email. Although CINC announced on Aug. 1 that naval installations have exceeded their goal of 396,000 pounds for the entire three month campaign,every item collected is still needed by local food banks and pantries which distribute to those in need. Nonperishable foods of all types are urgently needed, along with hygiene supplies such as toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant and more. The need is particularly great during the summer months, when donations are typically lower than the holidays.According to the Foodbank of Southeaster Virginia’s website, more than 80,400 youth are eligible for the free and reduced price lunch program at their schools within their service area. During the summer,many of those parents struggle with being able to provide the nutritious meals kids received in school. “It’s the holidays when people have food the — See Feds Feed Families, Page 7
2 JET OBSERVER • August g 9, 2012
BASE BRIEFS » » »» » »»»»»»» NPC Fleet Engagement Team visit
The COnnection Line has made a change! For questions, suggestions, compliments or concerns about services provided on board NAS Oceana, now e-mail OceanaPAO@navy.mil. However, the best and fastest way to resolve a problem is through your chain of command or with the organization directly involved. Please be brief and to the point when using the COnnection Line. Capt. Bob Geis will reply through this column, since topics may be of interest to other readers.
Military Citizen of the Year nominations The Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce is now accepting nominations for the 2012 Samuel T. Northern Military Citizen of the Year (MCOY) Award. Nominations are open to active duty E-6 and below. Nominees must demonstrate active participation in off-duty community activities, in addition to criteria expected of an enlisted military member.The award is not for a single act, but rather for sustained community service in Hampton Roads for a period of at least one year, but not more than two years. All nominations must be received by Sept. 21. Finalists will be notified the last week of September. This year’s winner and finalists will be recognized during a luncheon, Oct. 12, at the Norfolk Marriott Waterside Hotel. Nomination forms are available at http://members. hamptonroadschamber.com/sbaweb/members/webdocs/ norfolk. For additional information, refer to COMNAVREG MIDLANT NORFOLK VA 181539Z Jul 12.
JET Observer Naval Air Station Oceana, Virginia Beach, VA 23460 Dam Neck Annex, Virginia Beach and Chambers Field, Norfolk Commanding Officer - Capt. Robert N. Geis Executive Officer - Capt. Kit Chope Public Affairs Officer - Kelley Stirling Editor - Cathy Heimer Jet@militarynews.com www.oceanajetobserver.com https://cnic.navy.mil/oceana PHONE (757)433-3360
Southside: (757)222-3990 Peninsula: (757)596-0853 Fax: 853-1634
A team of BUPERS and Navy Personnel Command from the Military Community Management and Career Management departments will conduct a fleet engagement visit at NAS Oceana,Aug. 15, from 8 - 11:30 a.m. for E-7 and above, and 1 - 4 p.m. for E-6 and below, in the auditorium of the Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training Unit building 223.All personnel are encouraged to attend. This visit is intended to help command leadership teams with current manpower issues and career development programs, as well as promote the professional and personal development of officers and Sailors.The teams will focus on Navy Force Management initiatives for both the officer and enlisted communities. The officer topics will include the Selected Early Retirement Board,Lateral Transfer Board and Probationary Officer Continuation and Redesignation Board. Enlisted topics will include the Fleet Ride-Perform to Serve, enlisted community health and the distribution and detailing process. BUPERS/NPC representatives will also field questions across the spectrum of all manpower initiatives and detailing/distribution processes. The point of contact is NCC Denequa Rosado at 4332665.
Aerotheater closure The Aerotheater at NAS Oceana is currently closed for renovations and is expected to remained closed until the end of August. $2 movies are being shown at the Gator Theater on JEB Little Creek-Fort Story. Call 462-7534 for the current movie schedule.
School physicals
•Patients 9 years of age and older are required to not eat or drink anything other than water after midnight.This is due to labs that may need to be drawn. Patients may continue to take current medications.
Navywide Advancement Exams September 2012 Navywide Advancement Exams will be given on Sept. 6 for E6, Sept. 13 for E5 and Sept. 20 for E4. Worksheet signing will be through Aug.10,8 a.m.to 2 p.m. at the PSD Oceana Enlisted Services Office (ESO) Office. Command ESO points of contact must notify the ESO prior to the deadline of any candidate who will not be able to sign or need special arrangements to sign their worksheet. Sailors should ensure they have a copy of their last eval when they sign their worksheets. Education points will be awarded for an accredited college degree listed on a Sailor’s SMART. If the degree is not listed on the Sailor’s SMART, the Sailor must contact Navy College by Sept. 1 to have their SMART updated.The Navy College Office will validate college transcripts and enter education data in the Navy College Management Information System. Failure to update degree data will result in an education points discrepancy on a Sailor’s profile sheet. For more information, call 433-4119.
Chapel Schedule of Services Chapel of the Good Shepherd, Oceana Protestant
Catholic
Sunday Sunday School - 9 a.m. Worship (main chapel) 10:40 a.m.
Mass – Tues-Fri, 11:30 a.m. Sun. Mass - 9 a.m., 12:15 p.m.
Chapel by the Sea, Dam Neck - 492-6602 Contemporary Protestant Worship Sunday 9 a.m.
Confession Saturday 4 p.m. Catholic Worship 5 p.m.
Coffee House - Wednesday, 6 p.m.
Do you need a school physical and can’t get an appointNaval Station Norfolk ment? The Branch Health Clinic at NAS Oceana will here Jewish Services - Fri - 7:30 p.m., Naval Station Norfolk - 444-7361 to see all patients, 21 years of age and younger, for school Islamic Services - Fri - 1:30 p.m., Masjid al Da’waj 2nd Floor (Bldg. C-7) physicals on Saturday Aug. 25, 8 a.m. to noon. Required items Contact Chaplains: NAS Oceana at 433-2871 FRC Oceana at 433•Military ID 9286, CVW-1 at 433-3676 CVW-7 at 433-2247, CVW-8 at 433-2420, •Physical forms CVW-3 at 433-2098, CVW-17 at 433-2481/2313 •Immunization records
Published every Thursday by Military Newspapers of Virginia, a private firm in no way connected with the Department of Defense or the United States Navy, under exclusive written contract with the Commanding Officer, Naval Air Station Oceana. This civilian enterprise newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services and NAS Oceana civilian employees. Contents of the paper are not necessarily the official views of, nor endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense, or the Department of the Navy. The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts and supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the Department of Defense or Military Newspapers of Virginia of the products or services advertised.
Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other nonmerit factor of the purchaser, user, or patron. A confirmed violation or rejection of this policy of equal opportunities by an advertiser will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source. Editorial content is edited, prepared and provided by the Public Affairs Office, Naval Air Station Oceana, Virginia Beach, Va. Deadline to submit copy is Thursday, noon, seven days prior to publication date.
August 9, 2012 • JET OBSERVER 3
Rear Adm. Tim Alexander, commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic, shows the audience an article in Tidewater Women about Capt. Mary Jackson during the Naval Station Norfolk change of command ceremony Aug. 2. Capt. David Culler Jr. (l) relieved Jackson as commanding officer of Naval Station Norfolk during a ceremony at Pennsylvania House.
Chaplain’s
Corner
Will you friend me? BY LT. CHRISTILENE WHALEN Carrier Air Wing 8 Chaplain Mark Zuckerberg’s Facebook phenomenon has more than 900 million people around the world connecting to one another as friends.We befriend childhood classmates and friends from the past that we “usta know.”We befriend workplace colleagues and enemies from the present that we “somewhat know.” We even befriend friends of friends from other people that we “don’t know” at all. I believe we look for friends because many of us are not feeling any love. We look for friends because we move around in lonely isolated lives. We go onto Facebook and we click, “will you friend me?” . . . to mostly strangers. A friend is someone we like and trust. Good friends go out on the limb for you, but more than that, you will go out on the limb for your good friend.The Gospel of John says,“there is no greater love than this, that you lay down your life for your friend”. (John 15:13). Wow…what a limb to go out on! But that is exactly what Jesus did so very long ago for his friends. He went out on the salvation limb of Calvary and laid down his life for his friends. God not only likes us as a friend but God shows his love for us and calls us his friend. He clicked the friend button of life and “chose you and me as his friend.” (John 15:16). Now, in our moments of loneliness, we see God’s invite asking “will you friend me” as various groups of shipmates schedule fun summer trips to amusement parks and other wholesome places of interest. During times when we are missing our childhood memories, we see God’s invite asking “will you friend me” as plan a few days of leave to attend our family reunions and home churches. When our haters look like our friends and our friends look like haters,we see God’s always loving invite asking “will you friend me” as we read “God’s word that tells us about people who love and hate.” (John 15:18-27). Primarily, we are interactive friends with God when we pray, participate in communities of faith, and even volunteer for charitable events helping those less fortunate than ourselves. There is an old hymn that says,“There’s not a friend like the lowly Jesus, No not one, No not one.”This hymn reminds us of how Jesus is always near, knows all about us, and understands our struggles. It reminds us that God will guide us all through our lives. Becoming friends with God is to trust God because we are always connected and we are not alone. God has sent out a friend request. Click “accept”.
Photos by MC3 Billy Ho
Culler relieves Jackson as commanding officer of Naval Station Norfolk BY MC3(SW/AW) MOLLY GREENDEER Navy Public Affairs Support Element East
has achieved. “NNS is committed to the safety, security, and continuous improvement in the quality of life and quality Command of Naval Station Norfolk changed hands of service to our war fighters and their families,” said during a change of command ceremony held on the Culler. “Failure is never an option.” installation Aug. 2. Culler said his goal and chalCapt. David Culler relieved lenge as commanding officer is Capt. Mary Jackson as comto frequent the numerous commanding officer of Naval Station mands housed on the installaNorfolk. tion. Culler, a second generation “Getting around more and visnaval aviator, was commissioned iting with the number of comin 1988. Prior to his arrival as mands on board Naval Station executive officer of Naval StaNorfolk is challenging due to tion Norfolk, he was assigned to the size and scope of the instalthe Supreme Allied Command lation,”said Culler.“but is criticalTransformation as the counter ly important to understanding improvised explosive device inwhere we need to improve our tegrated product team leader in services in order to better supsupport of training, education port the fleet, war fighters and and doctrine development for their families.” NATO and troop contributing Jackson took command of nations. the world’s largest naval base in During her speech, Jackson 2010, becoming the first female Capt. Mary Jackson delivers remarks during praised Culler.“He is well versed commanding officer of Naval the Naval Station Norfolk change of comin the up-tempo, diversity and Station Norfolk. She will be remand ceremony Aug. 3. Capt. David Culler Jr. volume of this installation,” said relieved Capt. Mary Jackson as Commanding porting to Navy Region MidJackson. “He is leagues better Officer of Naval Station Norfolk. Her next tour Atlantic to serve as the chief of than me, and will take our pro- will be as chief of staff at Navy Region Mid- staff. cesses and mission accomplish- Atlantic. Jackson was awarded the Lement to the next level.” gion of Merit for her exceptionCuller and Jackson worked together during Jackson’s ally meritorious conduct in the performance of outtenure as commanding officer, establishing the present standing service as executive and commanding officer mission of Naval Station Norfolk and he is dedicated to of Naval Station Norfolk from April 2009 to August continuing the standard of excellence the installation 2012.
4 JET OBSERVER • August 9, 2012
NAS OCEANA
Quarterly Awards
Sailor of the Quarter
Junior Sailor of the Quarter
RP1(AW) Jorge V. Arocho
ABH2(AW/SW) Shawneequa L. Joyner heavily involved in the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce recognition luncheon for more than 300 people, at Shifting Sands Club in July. He also coordinated the semi-annual Hampton Roads Command Master Chief Resource Conference for more than 65 CMCs, CMC selectees and 28 quality of life program managers. He has been instrumental in the reorganization and administration improvement in tracking all individual augmentees, including contact, PDHAs and PDHRAs. His collateral duties include command color guard coordinator, where he planned, trained and executed more than 25 color guard details for ceremonies throughout Hampton Roads, including VIP events. He was also selected to serve on a complex and demanding courts martial. Because of his continued community service, including work as a Little League umpire and now head umpire,Arocho earned the Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal in June.
Religious Program Specialist 1st Class (AW) Jorge V. Arocho is the NAS Oceana Sailor of the Quarter, Third Quarter 2012. Arocho serves as the executive assistant to the Oceana command master chief, where he assists in the planning and organization of Oceana’s involvement in a variety of events, including the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Midway.Working with Naval Air Force Atlantic, the host of the anniversary, he helped coordinate 15 commands and more than 100 Sailors. Arocho also managed the second quarter Sailor of the Quarter luncheon for 15 awardees, six sponsoring organizations and more than 50 attendees. He was also
Aviation B o a t sw a i n ’s Mate (Handling) 2nd Class (AW/ SW) Shawneequa L. Joyner is the NAS Oceana Junior Sailor of the Quarter, Third Quarter 2012. As an airďŹ eld ďŹ reďŹ ghter at NALF Fentress, Joyner’s primary duties are that of crash crewman and driver/operator of the ďŹ re vehicles. As part of her supervision of three military ďŹ reďŹ ghters,Joyner oversaw the training and qualiďŹ cation of three tower watches, four crash crewman and four ARFF driver/operators. Joyner also assisted with the development of seven newly-reported personnel into uniďŹ ed teams through training and ap-
plication of proven ďŹ re techniques. Over and above her typical 76-hour work week at Fentress,Joyner has provided more than 312 hours of medical assistance and ďŹ re protection at Oceana, Dam Neck Annex and Northwest Annex. Her collateral duties include serving as the division’s SAPR and also divisional career counselor, where she coordinated six reenlistments, 12 career development boards and 10 Perform-to-Serve applications, which resulted in a 90 percent retention rate and a 43 percent advancement increase. Joyner was also instrumental in implementing a productive study regiment at Fentress for advancement exams, in-rate qualiďŹ cations and the statewide emergency medical ďŹ rst responders’ course. In her off duty time, she has volunteered 80 hours with the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society and the REACH (Reading Enriches All Children) Program.
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Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Antonio P. Turretto Ramos is the NAS Oceana Blue Jacket of the Quarter, Third Quarter 2012. Turretto Ramos, from the Oceana Public Affairs OfďŹ ce, earned a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement medal for his efforts following the April 6 crash of an F/A-18 Hornet into the Mayfair Mews apartments. The only Navy photographer for the ďŹ rst several days,Turretto Ramos spent many off duty and weekend hours documenting the crash scene, as well as other high visibility
events. Turretto Ramos earned a ďŹ rst place award for his multimedia presentation at the annual DoD Worldwide Military Photography Workshop in June. The 70 nominees from all branches of the service who attended, represent the top 1 percent of DoD civilian and military photographers worldwide. Turretto Ramos has had 20 articles and 150 photos published in the Jet Observer printed edition and 250 photos on the newspaper’s website. His photos and articles have also been used in The Flagship newspaper, on Navy.mil the U.S. Navy’s ofďŹ cial website, the Virginian-Pilot and the National Mustang Association. In addition to completing four courses through Ashford University,Turretto Ramos also has completed 847 training hours for the United Services Military Apprenticeship Program.
August 9, 2012 • JET OBSERVER 5
EQUI-VETS provides therapeutic healing, hope for wounded military personnel BY DAVID TODD The Flagship Nestled in the heart of Virginia Beach off Sandbridge Road, EQUI-KIDS Therapeutic Riding Program is a 92-acre facility that has grown to become one of the largest accredited equine riding programs in the country beneďŹ ting the special needs community. Their team of hard-working horses (21 on-site, with 18 in use in the program) provide equine-assisted activities to a diverse group of riders supporting individuals with disabilities, such as Down syndrome, Autism, spina biďŹ da, multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury (TBI), cerebral palsy, amputation, mental and physical disabilities, attention deďŹ cit disorder and many more. In 2010, the group branched out and es-
tablished the EQUI-VETS Service Program, which assists active and retired service members who have been injured in the line of duty. In honor of their service and sacriďŹ ce,the program is offered free of cost to its participants. “We are an adjunct to the therapy that they have,â€? said Kathy Chitwood, program director and North American Riding for the Handicapped Association, Inc. (NARHA) certiďŹ ed instructor. “All of the EQUI-VETS that have come out, I can say that just about all of them have had mental health issues [TBI, PTSD, anxiety, depression], if not in conjunction with physical disabilities from the war.We have had great success in Courtesy of EQUI-VETS conjunction with whatever therapy they The EQUI-VETS program is a rewarding experience for many of the wounded service memare going through with diminishing their bers who have TBI, PTSD, or other physical ailments. The program is located on 92 acres, off — See EQUI-VETS, Page 12 Sandbridge Road in Virginia Beach, and is provided free of charge to its participants.
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6 JET OBSERVER • August 9, 2012
Records reveal Enterprise is on 25th deployment From USS Enterprise Public Affairs
Photo by MC3 Gregory White
An F/A-18E Super Hornet prepares to be launched from catapult one during ight operations aboard aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) May 9. Enterprise, with embarked Carrier Air Wing 1, is on its 25th and ďŹ nal deployment.
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USS ENTERPRISE,At Sea —Aug.3 marked the anniversary of the first deployment of the legendary USS Enterprise (CVN 65). Now, years later, as the Big E continues her final deployment, scores of people are reviewing and double checking all aspects of the historic carrier’s storied career. The number of arrested landings,historic milestones, major evolutions, and yes, even number of deployments are being checked and double checked for accuracy. As the Navy entered into the digital age, many of the historical documents associated with the carrier were made available online. Cases in point are the command history reports, which outline the milestones and accomplishments that occur over each calendar year. Research into these and other documents have led researchers to a startling new discovery. Tracing the number of deployments that Enterprise has completed would seem like a relatively easy task — simply tally up the number from the command history reports. Unfortunately, a few format changes over the years made for a task a bit more challenging than expected. According to retired Navy Capt. Todd Creekman, executive director of the Naval Historical Foundation in Washington D.C., researchers at the foundation have unearthed some surprising news. “In reviewing Enterprise’s operational history, we made an interesting discovery,� Creekman said.“All the current reports say that the ship is on her 22nd deployment. Actually, it is on the 25th deployment.� Research from the Naval Historical and Heritage Command’s (NHHC) online database and other reports reveal that the carrier has “been there, done that� more often than commonly thought. “We’ve run it by NHHC historian Mark Evans and it matches his data,� Creekman said. As researchers worked to piece together what happened, it appeared that a focus on the ship’s WestPac deployments led to the error. In a number of accounts, including command history reports, a particular deployment would be listed, for example,
as “the tenth WestPac deployment,� which would be accurate counting from the ship’s first 1965-66 epic “first nuclear carrier in combat� deployment to the Vietnam War. The carrier completed its 14th and last sequential WestPac in 1990, before entering Newport News Shipyard in 1990 for the ship’s third refueling. Following the final refueling, Enterprise made Norfolk her homeport once again and only made deployments to the Mediterranean Sea, Indian Ocean and Arabian Gulf. “The problem began when later history reports used the same number sequence but dropped “WestPac� from the description,� Evans explained. “The refueling reports failed to re-account for the three deployments Big E made to the Mediterranean Sea between 1962-1964.� One example is the command history report from the ship’s historic 2001 deployment, which reads:“On April 25, the Enterprise Navigation Department set Special Sea and Anchor Detail to begin a historic 17th deployment for operations in the Mediterranean Sea,Arabian Gulf and North Arabian Sea.� This was, in fact, the ship’s 20th deployment. As the 51-year-old carrier steams along today on its 25th and final deployment, researchers continue to verify and cross reference important facts and milestones to ensure accuracy. “It’s already exciting to be a part of Enterprise’s final deployment, but each day we are discovering more and more about the rich history of which we are a part,� said Capt.William C. Hamilton, Enterprise’s commanding officer. “We estimate over 200,000 Sailors and Marines have served aboard the Big E, and every one has helped in making her the legend we serve aboard today.We are a very, very proud crew.� The eighth ship to bear the name Enterprise is scheduled to inactivate from service on Dec. 1, 2012, in a ceremony in Norfolk, in preparation for her defueling and decommissioning in 2016. For more information about Enterprise and a detailed account of her history, visit www.enterprise.navy.mil.
Read the Jet Observer online at www.oceanajetobserver.com
August 9, 2012 • JET OBSERVER 7
Feds Feed Families: Annual food drive benefits local communities Continued from page 1 most because everyone wants to donate,” said Religious Programs Specialist (RP) 2nd Class Jacqueline Bellins, Oceana and Dam Neck coordinator for Feds Feed Families.“But especially during the summer, when the kids aren’t in school, it’s not like all of them have lunch every day.” During the 2011 Feds Feed Families food drive, Oceana and Dam Neck collected 15,179 pounds of food, all of which was immediately distributed to several different community organizations that serve those in need. “The American people have always been very generous.If there’s any community who understands generosity, it’s ours,”said Oceana Command Chaplain Cmdr. Vinson Miller about Hampton Roads. Cash donations, as well as non-perishable foods are also appreciated. Last year, $1,500 in cash was donated. The Photo by MC3 Antonio P. Turretto Ramos monetary donations are used to pur- Collection boxes for the Feds Feed Families are chase additional items.At the rate of $1 located at the Oceana and Dam Neck chapels, for five pounds of food, the food banks Oceana Commissary, Navy Exchange and Jet Mart. are able to buy in bulk for the specific items they need, explained Miller. Even before the local drive began last to make it easier to recruit volunteers. Bellmonth, Miller said they did some pre-stag- ins would also appreciate having additioning, such as getting the collection boxes al commands at Oceana and Dam Neck set ready. Bellins said she has had a great deal up boxes to collect donations. of help from Miller and Lt. Cmdr. (select) While donations collected by Feds Feed Paul Greer, Oceana chaplain and RP1(FMF) Families are distributed throughout the Jaimel Love, last year’s coordinator for entire community, Bellins and Miller noted Oceana and Dam Neck. how many military members also benefit Bellins collects the food from individu- from the donations to the local food bank. al commands where the donation boxes “There are military members who need are set up, as well as the Oceana Com- the food bank, whose children receive free missary, Navy Exchange and the Jet Mart. lunches,” said Miller. The food is weighed and then sorted for Feds Feed Families is another way for distribution. Currently the food is donated the military and civilians to give back to to the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia, the community which supports them. Judeo Christian Outreach, Potters House “The bottom line is this is our community, and Lynnhaven Presbyterian Church, all whether they’re wearing the uniform or of which pass along donations to those in not,this is the community in which we live need. Bellins said other locations will be and work. It’s just another way of building added in the coming weeks. upon the partnerships we have,”said Miller. Military and civilian volunteers are still needed to assist with the weekly collection of food at Oceana and Dam Neck, along — For more information about how to with loading it onto trucks and distribu- volunteer or donate to Feeds Feed Famition to the various food banks and pantries. lies at NAS Oceana and Dam Neck Annex, Food is currently collected on Fridays, al- contact the Chapel of the Good Shepherd though that will soon change to Thursdays, at 433-2871.
8 JET OBSERVER • August 9, 2012
MOHR’S BARNSTORMING TO SWOOP INTO
OCEANA AIR SHOW John Mohr, who has been thrilling crowds for more than 25 years, returns to the 2012 NAS Oceana Air Show Sept. 14, 15 and 16. Mohr Barnstorming has generated a great deal of excitement throughout the United States and Canada. Mohr and his crew have flown at more than 390 air shows with more than 1,000 performances.. He is the recipient of both the “Bill Barber Award for Showmanship” and the “Art Scholl Memorial Showmanship Award” (2000). He and his wife, Lyn, are from Minnesota, where family tales of his Grandfather Fred (who knew Lindbergh) barnstorming across the Midwest after World War I, and his father, Bob, motivating and teaching him to fly at the early age of 5, destined Mohr to be the aviator he is today. Mohr, who has more than 25,000 flying hours, currently flies in the 1943 Stock Stearman PT-17 and the Piaggio Royal P.136-LI.Taught by his father, he has been flying since age 5 and soloed at age 14. You won’t believe what he can make that Stearman do! Anyone that has seen Mohr fly his Stearman will attest to that.
When he does a slow roll, followed by a snap on takeoff, he gets the crowd’s attention. Mohr does not have an inverted oil and fuel system, which adds to the excitement when he holds the aircraft inverted too long, and the engine coughs and blasts a fireball out of the exhaust stack which is long enough to reach the tail. The old-timers who learned in Stearmans appreciate what Mohr does with his. They know how heavy handling the aircraft can be, and especially enjoy the “Falling Leaf” maneuver that isn’t seen much in air shows anymore. To execute the “Falling Leaf,” Mohr stalls the plane as if he was about to enter a spin, and applies rudder as it breaks off. Just as the wing drops, Mohr recovers with opposite rudder and neutral elevator, followed immediately by opposite rudder and full up elevator, until it breaks the other way. He repeats the maneuver over and over, faster and faster, so as to simulate a falling leaf. Mohr first built and flew his first helicopter at age 17 and has built numerous aircraft since then. He successfully executed the first aerial transfer of a person from an airplane to a helicopter in 1993.The incredible air show act featured Mohr, who actually landed his Enstrom helicopter on the top wing of his Stearman, owned by Mohr, but was flown by either Bryan Bourn or Dave Simonson, while stuntman Royce Baar climbed out of the front cockpit and grabs hold of the helicopter skid. Mohr then lifted Baar from the cockpit and landed him safely in front of the air show crowd. Putting the helicopter into the show happened quite by accident. Mohr was giving rides at an air show and
Family members reunite on Ike BY MC3 BRIAN REYNOLDS Enterprise Carrier Strike Group Public Affairs USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea (NNS) — Twenty-one crew members from aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) took a carrier on board delivery (COD) flight to aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), July 26, to reunite with family members currently serving aboard Ike. Crew members from Enterprise toured Ike and seized the opportunity to spend time with family members and spouses they had not seen for nearly five months. “Twenty-one of the 22 passengers aboard the COD had family members aboard Eisenhower,” said Senior Chief Hospital Corpsman Cheri R. Snaza, the leading chief petty
officer of Enterprise’s medical department.“They ranged from spouses, brothers, sisters and cousins to uncles and nephews.” Snaza, whose husband is Command Master Chief Gregg Snaza, the command master chief aboard Eisenhower, thought it would be an auspicious undertaking to help arrange a rendezvous between crew members from Enterprise and their respective family members aboard Eisenhower. “Taking the Ike’s deployment into consideration, it was going to be a 13-month time period before we were going to be able to see our spouses or significant family members,” Snaza said.“My husband and I began chatting about how we could accomplish some kind of a cross-deck.”
Photos courtesy www.skybluephoto.com
the show was short of acts due to bad weather. They asked Mohr to do a demo with the helicopter and people really enjoyed it. It took several years to refine the aerial transfer routine. When asked why he doesn’t put a 450 horsepower Pratt & Whitney engine on his Stearman, which is a common practice among air show performers, he said, “then I would be like everyone else, and my act is unique and different. I do some things with my Stock Stearman that I wouldn’t dare do in a 450.” Mohr’s explanation for the success of Mohr Barnstorming, which he owns with Lyn, is simple: “We found a niche in the industry that enabled us to turn our passion into a profession.” He is currently a commercial airline pilot, a helicopter pilot and collector of vintage planes. Even though he is a captain, check airman and FAA designated examiner for a major airline, half of his 25,000 hours come from light airplanes and helicopters. — For more information about the 2012 NAS Oceana Air Show, visit www.oceanaairshow.com.
After coordination and communication between the two carriers’ commanding officers and operations departments, the visit was made possible. The visit to the Ike included a welcome aboard by Eisenhower’s commanding officer, a group photo, individual photos,and most importantly,time for family members to spend with each other. “We wanted each Sailor to get as much time as possible with their family member,” said Snaza.“Because we went over via COD, instead of a helicopter, we were able to afford the family members much more time with each other.” “As soon as I walked off of the COD, my cousin was there waiting with arms wide open,” said Yeoman 2nd Class Jacqueline M. Martinez, assigned to the “Screwtops” of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 123. “The trip was phenomenal. I’m very thankful for the opportunity.”
August 9, 2012 • JET OBSERVER 9 Photo by MC3 Antonio P. Turretto Ramos
Photo by Harry Gerwien
Photo by MC3 Antonio P. Turretto Ramos
Photo by MC3 Antonio P. Turretto Ramos
Many of the “Blue Blasters” returned home on USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72), which pulled into Naval Station Norfolk, Aug. 7, with her crew and family members who were aboard for the Tiger Cruise.
PHOTOS, ABOVE LEFT: After returning to NAS Oceana, Aug. 2, VFA-34 Executive Officer Cmdr. Edward Smith gets his first look at his daughter Payton in eight months, as his wife Lisa and older daughter Taylor watch. BELOW LEFT: Elizabeth Moore plants a big kiss on her husband IS2(AW) Nathan Moore from the “Blue Blasters,” who returned on board USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) Aug. 7. ABOVE: AM2(AW) Culley Pierce from VFA-34, with his wife Jessica and son Gabriel, 3, leave the pier at Naval Station Norfolk after Lincoln arrived in Norfolk following an eightmonth deployment.
VFA-34: Deployment began in San Diego eight months ago — Continued from page 1 on target and on time,” said Aviation Ordnanceman 1st Class Kevin Powell. Operating throughout the 7th, 5th, and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility (AOR), “Team Broadsword” flew 10,860 sorties for 32,250 flight hours. The air wing launched 2,411 sorties over the beach, totaling 14,206 hours in direct support of OEF. VFA-34 helped to set the standard as they executed 479 OEF missions, resulting in 100 percent sortie completion rate, totaling 2,940 combat hours. Additionally, 100 percent of Blaster weapons employed, went high order with 100 percent accuracy, all of which met ground commanders’ intent. For the entire deployment, the squadron completed 1,465 sorties, flew 4,350 hours with a 98.7 percent sortie completion rate. The outstanding success in combat would not be possible without the support of a dedicated team of professionals made up of ground officers, chiefs and enlisted Sailors, who worked to ensure a maximum number of aircraft and systems were ready for tasking. Several members of VFA-34’s team shared their thoughts
2011 exam, and won squadron“Top Hook” about their contributions to OEF. “It always feels good to know that your for three out of four line periods. The Blaster standards applied not just to work is successful. What we do out here is pretty important. When the equipment combat operations, but also to professional development. Leadyou work on works as ing the air wing, 63 advertised, it’s a great Sailors earned their feeling as well. The EAWS pins while pride enjoyed passes an unprecedented down through all the 30 Sailors earned guys in the shop,” said Aviation Electronics their Enlisted Surface Warfare SpecialTechnician 2nd Class ist (ESWS), resulting Daniel Thomason. in 93 percent being During the deploywarfare qualified. ment, VFA-34 won the The deployment 2011 Commander Nacycle has not been val Air Forces (CNAL) without hardship and Safety “S” award, Goldsacrifice. Two extenen Anchor Retention sions posed incredExcellence Award, ible challenges to Enlisted Aviation Warpersonnel from the fare Specialist (EAWS) pennant, Blue “M” and most junior to the Photo by Harry Gerwien most senior. Despite “H” Gold Star Medical/Health promotion “Blue Blaster” Lt. Brian Hanson sweeps challenging condiawards, achieved a 52 girlfriend Katie Earl off her feet with a big tions and grueling percent advancement hug after arriving back at NAS Oceana days, members of the Blasters were able to rate on the Spring Aug. 2
stay positive and persevere in the face of adversity. “This environment requires a lot of troubleshooting and a lot of effort; a lot of blood sweat and tears as they say.Teamwork between night check and day check was crucial. That included working not just as a shop, but as friends,” explained Aviation Structural Mechanic (Equipment) 2nd Class Craig Mitchell, about some of the biggest challenges the team faced on deployment. Members of the Blasters participated in a variety of detachments including Eastern Angler in Qatar and a rescue detachment at Kandahar Airfield in Afghanistan. Sailors also volunteered their time and efforts during port visits on a variety of community relations projects. In Thailand, members of VFA-34 visited the Nakhon School, where they exchanged stories and gifts. A number of VFA-34 personnel paid a visit to the Philippine Embassy women’s shelter in Bahrain, providing support and company to women suffering abuse. The VFA-34 Blue Blasters are proud to arrive home in Virginia Beach after having accomplished “Victory in Combat.”
10 JET OBSERVER • August 9, 2012
Funding a college education Command Spouse Course
marks 15th anniversary BY SUSAN HENSON Center for Personal and Professional Development Public Affairs
Photo by MC3 Antonio P. Turretto Ramos
Hannah Borgerding, 16, has a little help from the Navy Exchange funding her college education. The rising 11th grader at Ocean Lakes High School’s math and science academy in Virginia Beach was one of four students worldwide who won a savings bond in the NEX’s A-OK Student Reward drawing. Presenting Borgerding’s certificate, medal and flowers on Aug. 1 is NEX General Manager Melissa Dodson-Dozier. Borgerding, whose parents are retired Navy, has been entering since third grade. This is her first win. The quarterly drawing is open to students in 12th grade and below, who have earned a “B” grade point average or better.
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ideas on ways to maintain communication links among the command, families, the community and service providers. Spouses spend time during the course NEWPORT, R.I. (NNS) — The Command evaluating their own personal values and Spouse Leadership Course (CSLC) marked preferences. Each spouse then develops its 15th anniversary July 25 in Newport,R.I. his or her own vision statement based on CSLC,which began in October of 1997,is those values and preferences and, together a one-week course for spouses of first-time with the prospective CO, develops a Comprospective commanding officers. Spouses mand Tour Charter that aligns with each of of officers attending the Command Leader- their personal visions, according to Cmdr. ship Course (CLC) are invited to attend the John Pucciarelli, who is a CSLC instrucCSLC, which is a complementary course tor on Navy Organization and Navy Total that runs in conjunction with the CLC. Force, including discussions on Safe HarBoth the CSLC and the CLC are conduct- bor, Suicide Prevention, Sexual Assault Preed in Newport, R.I., and all related travel, vention and Response, and Diversity. lodging and meal costs are funded by the The course is taught by post command Navy for attendees. An average of 250 spouses contracted to the Navy and by CLS spouses attend CSLC each year. active duty instructors, such as Pucciarelli, “CSLC prowho have prevides spouses of viously been CSLC provides spouses of soon-to-be com- in command. soon-to-be commanding officers (COs) with an in-depth pro- Topics covmanding officers (COs) with gram that enriches their knowledge of the ered include an in-depth choices and contributions they may make as C o m m a n d program that a CO’s spouse. It’s an all-around win for the Support Team enriches their Relationships; spouses, the COs and the Navy,” knowledge of Values and — Capt. Michael Slotsky, director of Command the choices and Ethics; Social Leadership School contr ibutions Media for they may make Navy Families; as a CO’s spouse. It’s an all-around win for and Individual Augmentee Family Support. the spouses, the COs and the Navy,” said Speakers can include the Chief of Naval Capt. Michael Slotsky, director of Com- Personnel, a clinical psychologist who comand Leadership School (CLS), which instructs a Personal and Operational Stress administers CSLC as part of its mission to Management module,a Navy chaplain who “prepare the Leadership Triad and Com- co-instructs a crisis management module mand Support Team for their unique roles.” and a retired Marine Corps major general “CSLC was the vision of a group of flag who speaks about the Navy-Marine Corps spouses attending a Battlegroup Com- Relief Society. mander’s Conference in 1995,” said Slotsky. Spouses have provided positive feed“Within a year,these spouses — along with back for the course, one describing it as several spouses from various Navy com- “... more than I imagined! I not only had a munities and geographic locations — de- wonderful week but also received tremenveloped the curriculum, and presented it dous information and knowledge, experiat the 1996 conference as well as to the enced stories, and advice.”Another spouse Chief of Naval Personnel.As a result, NAV- said,“I found the course very helpful. I am ADMIN 188/97 was released by naval mes- much more likely to get engaged with my sage forming the course.” husband’s command.” CSLC provides spouses with an awareTo mark the 15th anniversary of the ness of leadership and management skills course, the CSLC Steering Committee held that can enhance positive contributions a barbecue at the home of Rear Adm. and to the family, command and community Mrs. John Christenson. Mrs. Christenson is environments. The course deals with is- the CSLC Steering Committee flag spouse sues likely to come up in connection with advisor. command responsibilities. It also provides
“
August 9, 2012 • JET OBSERVER 11
FLEET & FAMILY SUPPORT CENTER WORKSHOPS
» » »» » »»» CFS FORUM Aug. 10, 8:30 - 10 a.m. The Command Financial Specialist Forum provides continuing education for the trained CFS who wants to stay current on military personal finance and consumer issues. The forum is held at Dam Neck Annex. Call 433-2912 to register.
JOB SEARCH STRATEGIES Aug. 14 9 a.m. to noon This workshop covers everything from assessing the hidden job market to finding a job long-distance,including job searching on the Internet. Many of the resources and services available to job seekers are also discussed, including major employers in the Hampton Roads area and the Virginia Employment Commission (VEC).
SPONSOR TRAINING Aug. 14, 2 - 4 p.m. This training, available for presentation at your worksite, teaches command personnel to serve as sponsors.Topics include ways to be an effective sponsor, duties and responsibilities, military and community sources of help, and FFSC relocation assistance.
FAMILY READINESS GROUP LEADERSHIP TRAINING Aug. 14, 6:30 - 9 p.m. Family readiness groups play an integral part in keeping families together in various situations, especially during deployment. Contact the FFSC at Oceana to ask for more information.
DECKPLATE RESOURCE AWARENESS TRAINING
Aug. 15 -16, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. This training is specifically for second class petty officers in supervisory positions. It provides information on Navy and community resources available to military personnel. Through solution-focused exercises, participants learn techniques that effectively address personnel concerns brought to their attention.
HOMEOWNERSHIP Aug. 15, 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. VHDA’s Homeownership workshop is designed to take the mystery out of buying a home. Learn more about managing personal finances and credit: working with a lender and real estate agent;and completing the loan process and home inspection. You’ll also learn ways to protect your investment as a home owner.
OVERSEAS TRANSFER WORKSHOP Aug. 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.
IA FAMILY DISCUSSION GROUP Aug. 15, 6 - 8 p.m. This forum is designed to support family members of Sailors who are deployed as individual augmentees. Presentations offer coping techniques to handle the physical, emotional, and financial stresses of an often short-fused deployment will be followed by a family support group break-out session.
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Under 4 (Coed) • Under 6 (Boys/Girls) • Under 8 (Boys/Girls) • Under 10 (Boys/Girls) The Virginia Rush offers playing experiences for U4-U10 players in the greater Hampton Roads Community. Players are placed on neighborhood teams within the area they live. Fall registration has begun and will run through August. The season will begin September 15th and end November 10th. We do accept late registrations on a space available basis.
TAP Weekly, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Transition Assistance Program (TAP) is a workshop for separating military and pre-retirees.It covers resume writing,interviewing skills, salary negotiations, military benefits, and other topics that facilitate a smooth transition from the military to the civilian community. If space is available, spouses may accompany the transitioning member. All classes are held Monday through Thursday, in building U-93 at Naval Station Norfolk. See your command career counselor for a quota to attend TAP.
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.
Peninsula: Now $65
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Southside Peninsula (757) 430-3500 (757) 224-0213 Register Online at www.varush.com
12 JET OBSERVER • August 9, 2012
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EQUI-VETS: Free for military members injured in the line of duty — Continued from page 5 symptoms of depression, anxiety ... they are sleeping better, the nightmares have decreased, they are interacting socially better with their families, as well as their peers. And it’s helping them get back into the highest quality life that they can have.â€? Currently, there are ďŹ ve active participants in the program, but they have the capacity to handle more. They work around the participants’ schedules, especially those who are active duty and have limited time available. “When our EQUI-VETS are riding, we typically schedule it so that we don’t have our EQUI-KIDS program running in conjunction with it,â€? said Jill Haag, executive director. “So when they are here, it’s adults who are here with them.â€? Chitwood said that adults in the program can sometimes take longer to warm up to the horses due to past experiences with horses. “Adults are harder because they have that fear factor,â€? she explained.“Kids don’t have that fear, and a lot of the time, the adults have had a traumatic experience as a kid.â€? The program is offered year-round to qualifying participants for six weekly sessions. Participants may request consideration to participate in future sessions, based on space, need and availability. “Our goal is to get as many vets out here to ride the horses and interact with the horses as we can,â€? said Chitwood, “and to make it as beneďŹ cial for them therapeutically as we can.So,they are welcome to come into the program as long as it is therapeutically beneďŹ cial for them, and they are welcome to stay as long as it helps with whatever recovery they are going through.â€? EQUI-VETS riding sessions are held under the direct supervision of a registered nurse, board certiďŹ ed in psychiatric/mental health and a NARHA certiďŹ ed instructor, but they have found that the horses are often intuitive to the riders medical conditions, too. “You can have someone who has poor balance, and even some in our EQUI-KIDS program,if they have the onset of a seizure, we have several horses who have stopped in their tracks from what they are doing because they can sense and know what’s coming,â€? said Haag.“It’s incredible how safety-minded they are and they take care of their riders.â€?
Volunteers needed -C#OMAS 7AY s 6IRGINIA "EACH #ONCERT $RIVE s 6IRGINIA "EACH
Hampton Bay Days Hampton Bay Days is currently seeking volunteers for its 30th annual event, Sept. 7-9 in downtown Hampton. Areas needing assistance include beverage control, trash pick-up,entertainment,parking and VIP lounge For more information, contact Renita Bostic at 637-8942,
Courtesy of EQUI-VETS
The goal of EQUI-VETS is have as many veterans as possible ride and interact with the horses and to make the program as beneďŹ cial for them as therapeutically possible. EQUI-VETS is always looking for volunteers who are active duty and retired military personnel, as well as those who are non-military, to support the horseback riding sessions.And all training is provided on-site, so no prior experience is necessary. “For each rider we usually have about three volunteers, so we are riding at our peak around 90 people a week,and we need three times the amount of volunteers to help us,â€? said Chitwood.“Any given week we have 250 volunteersplus that come out to help us.â€? Above all, both the EQUI-KIDS and EQUI-VETS programs are a rewarding experience for the participants and the staff. “The results that we see from the people, people who have never been around a horse before, and seeing the reaction they have and the results is great,â€?said Chitwood. “We have kids that don’t respond to anything, and they come here and they’re responding to the horses. It’s a lot of fun and it’s the results that we get that keeps you coming back ... and it keeps our volunteers coming back.â€? EQUI-VETS is located at 2626 Heritage Park Dr. in Virginia Beach.For more information on EQUI-VETS,call 7217350, or visit www.equikids.org/equivets. 927-4279 or email at baydaysvolunteer@gmail.com.
Rock ‘n Roll 1/2 Marathon The Rock‘n Roll 1/2 Marathon in Virginia Beach needs volunteers for the Health and Fitness Expo Aug. 30 and 31 and also for the race crew Sept. 1. For more information, visit http://runrocknroll.competitor.com/virginiabeach.
August 9, 2012 • JET OBSERVER 13
COMMUNITY CALENDAR » » »» » »»»»»»» BODEANS PERFORMING AT SUMMER STREET FEST Aug. 11, 6- 11 p.m. Saturday Summer Street Fest brings family fun to the streets of downtown Hampton, with musical entertainment by national recording artist The BoDeans.The BoDeans are an all American band playing roots rock that combines blues, rock, country and soul all slammed together into one sound. Admission is free.Children can enjoy the inflatable ride, face painting and other special activities for $4 a ticket, from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Saturday Summer Street Fest is located on Queensway in downtown Hampton. For more information, contact 727-0900 or visit www.vasc.org.
CLOWNING AROUND Aug. 12, 1 -4 p.m. The Peninsula Fine Arts Center is hosting “Sunday Funday: Clowning Around.”Anyone can find their inner clown with the help of Daisy the Clown from A Mile of Smiles. She’ll introduce youngsters to the life of a clown.With her costumes, props, and a little imagination, participants can create their own clown personality. Pfac members are free,The cost is $3 for non-members; free for Pfac members.The Peninsula Fine Arts Center is located at 101 Museum Drive, Mariners’ Museum Park, Newport News. For more information, call 596-8175 or visit www.pfac-va.org.
AUDITIONS FOR ALADDIN Aug. 14 -15 The Hurrah Players are holding auditions for the production of Disney’s“Aladdin.”Males and females,age 5 and up are needed.Persons 18 and younger must be registered in Hurrah classes. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 627-5437
‘LOUD PIPES SAVE LIVES’ POKER RUN Aug. 18, 9 a.m. A poker run will benefit the American Cancer Society. Ride begins with registration at Bayside Harley-Davidson in Portsmouth, from 9 -11 a.m. and ends at Big Woody’s at Chesapeake Square Mall. Cost is $15 per rider; $5 per passenger; cars are welcome.There will be prizes and raffles. For more details contact Angela Francis at 493-7967, angela.francis@cancer.org or Bayside Harley-Davidson at 397-5550 or visit www.baysidehd.com.
‘WARBIRDS AND WINGS’ AVIATION CAMP Aug. 20 - 24, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Military Aviation Museum will hold its second annual “Warbirds and Wings”Aviation Summer Day Camp. Included in the curriculum, children will learn the fundamentals of flight; how factors such as lift, drag, thrust and weight affect flight, and a brief history of flight. Campers will build and fly their own gliders and rockets and build a model airplane. Ground crew training, safety measures and hand signals required to handle aircraft on the ground will also be included.Camp includes field trips to NAS Oceana and the museum’s own Fighter Factory. The camp is for ages 9-14 years old and the cost is $200 per child. For more information and registration, visit www.militaryaviationmuseum.org or call 721–7767.
KANSAS CONCERT Aug. 24 As part of the 21012 Navy Concert Series,Kansas will take to the stage at JEB Little Creek.The gates open at 5 p.m.; concert begins at 7 and there will be fireworks following the show. Concert is free and open to the public. For more information, call 462-4320.
PIG PICKIN’ Aug. 24, 6 -10 p.m. The annual Hampton Roads Squadron Association of Naval Aviation is hosting their annual pig pickin’ at the VFA Post 392. Cost is $30 per person.The menu includes barbecued whole pig, barbecue chicken, baked beans, potato salad, cole slaw and various beverages. Cocktails at 6 p.m. and food at 7 p.m.There will also be a cash bar. Music by Tim Hopkins, a 12 string acoustical guitarist. VFW Post 392 is located at 2408 Bowland Parkway, off London Bridge Road, Virginia Beach. For more information and to RSVP by Aug. 20, contact Kent Von Fecht at kcvonsr@cox.net or 340-9659.
MILITARY DISCOUNTS AT HAMPTON COLISEUM EVENTS The following offers are valid with military ID at allTicketmaster outlets and Hampton Coliseum Box Office or with password“USA12”atTicketmaster.com and by phone at 1-800-745-3000.Offer is not valid on previous purchases or with other discounts.Additional fees may apply.
Disney On Ice presents Rockin’ Ever After, Sept. 26 - 30 Military offer is $12 ticket for the following performances only: Sept. 27, 7:30 p.m.; Sept. 28, 10:30 a.m.; Sept. 29, 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.; Sept. 30,5 p.m. Offer valid on tickets regularly priced at $25 and $20.Additional fees may apply. Opening night special, Sept. 26, 7: 30 p.m. show, is 50 percent off select tickets, regularly priced at $25 and $20.
Monster Jam,Nov. 9 - 10, 7:30 p.m. The military offer: is $12 ticket; kids (2-12) just $5 in advance. Offer valid on tickets regularly priced at $22. Not valid on day of show.
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14 JET OBSERVER • August 9, 2012
SPORTS & FITNESS » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » 2012 MILITARY CHALLENGE DRAWS MORE THAN 1,800 PHOTO RIGHT: Participants head into the first of many water obstacles during the 3rd Annual Military Challenge at the Virginia Beach Sportsplex July 28. Photos by Harry Gerwien
BY APRIL BROWN Navy Region Mid-Atlantic Public Affairs More than 1,800 participants from 28 states and Canada of all ages, tagged with waterproof timing chips, were amped and ready to get wet, soapy and muddy at the 3rd annual Flagship Military Challenge, presented by Grand Furniture, at the Virginia Beach Sportsplex July 28. Feedback from past participants requested a more challenging course with additional mud and obstacles, and that is exactly what the team behind the scenes did for this year’s Military Challenge and its participants … heeding the motto, “If we change it, they will come!” “Last year, we were in the middle of a terrible drought … the course was dry as a bone. Mother Nature did not cooperate,” said Ann Hupp, owner, Mettle Events.“This year, however, Mother Nature is currently our best friend and this year is going to be wet!” Race obstacles included ditches, jersey barriers, wooden and hay bale climbing obstacles, multiple tire obstacles, the “mission impossible” multi-layer rope obstacle, mud and low crawls, a cargo net, a plank walk and lots of mud. The team added in a lake crossing and moved the mud pit to where the spectators were able to see from the stands, so that they could experience and cheer as the challengers went from the mud pit, to the low crawl, the bubble pit, down the slip and slide and to the finish line at the 50-yard line. “This is different with all the obstacles. This is not a peer running race, because you just don’t just go straight out and run, you are going to have to stop from your normal momentum and do the obstacles,” said Gunner’s Mate 1st Class Liz Campos, Maritime Civil Affairs and Security Training Command, when comparing the challenge to a normal 5K race. “That is a change of
pace verses the mundane road races.” Everyone had a different reason for signing up for the Challenge. Some wanted to honor a loved one that is deployed or fallen, like the 50 participants who raced in honor of their fallen friend Naval Aircrewman 2nd Class Joseph P. Fitzmorris from Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron 15. Others did it for family bonding, team building or just because they thought it would be fun. And some just wanted to compare it to other fitness challenges they have done in the past. Reigning champion Ryan Carroll from Portsmouth was the first place male runner with a time of 19:14:45. Georgette Linda Mink from Midhurst, Ontario was the first place female runner with a time of 24:04:00. New this year, the military command that had the most participants, U.S. Air Force Air Combat Command from Joint Base Langley-Eustis, was awarded $500. Harris Jewelry sponsored the 1K Diamond Dash. Mink and Kyle Oakes were this year’s winners. Oakes received a diamond watch and Mink received a diamond pendant, both courtesy of Harris Jewelers. “I have done a couple of mud runs before, but this one just is great because it kept you guessing at each turn — there was another obstacle right ahead,” said En-
sign Chadwick Shroy from Strike Fighter Squadron 81, also known as the “Sunliners.” “As soon as you get back into your stride again, all the sudden, they throw a tire obstacle, or wall in the middle of you, and you think dang it, I have to jump that now … really devious, and I really think that is how this type of course should be.” A team of U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) Airmen from the Aviation Technical Training Center in Elizabeth City, N.C. saw the event online and wanted to see how it compared to other events they have participated in. They agreed this year’s challenge was fun, a perfect size event with the perfect amount of mud, and the obstacles were challenging enough to push them. “My only recommendation for the challenge is to put more soap on the high inclined waterslide to make it easier to go There was also a Kids’ Mini Challenge, where ages 5-12, had an opportunity to conquer a similar course with military and other fun obstacles to challenge them. The course was the last half mile of the adult course that consisted of a mud pit and an inflatable obstacle course, low crawl, bubble pit, slip and slide, and the finish line.
down, otherwise, it was a good time,” said USCG Airman Rick Deschamps. Overall, the 3.3 mile race, which took months to plan and five days to build, was well received. “It was awesome. I trained for three months for this challenge,” said Ashley Lebrecht, a military spouse. “I highly recommend doing it!” “This year’s challenge brought us over 2,000 daily hits on the national website,Active.com, making us the 7th most popular streamed event on this site. This event is up there with Ironman Lake Placid,” said Hupp. “Next year, we will have over 2,000 challengers!” There was also a Kids’ Mini Challenge, where children, ages 5-12, had an opportunity to conquer a similar course with military and other fun obstacles to challenge them. The course was the last half mile of the adult course that consisted of a mud pit and an inflatable obstacle course, low crawl, bubble pit, slip and slide, and the finish line. The kids were all rewarded with a Mini Challenge T-shirt and an official Kids’ Mini Challenge medal. Participants enjoyed a free lunch and music by My 2 Cents, and a portion of the proceeds from the event will go to the USO of Hampton Roads and Central Virginia. For more information about the Military Challenges and a complete list of results, visit www.themilitarychallenge.com, or www.facebook.com/themilitarychallenge.
August 9, 2012 • JET OBSERVER 15
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16 JET OBSERVER • August 9, 2012
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