Take the Helm: Career Development Symposium delivers answers for Sailors Want to takeyourcareerto thenextlevel?Want to talktoyourdetailerinperson?Areyou having payissues?The Navy’s CareerDevelopment Symposium putsSailorsface-to-facewith the peoplewho help shape theircareers. PageA4 IN THIS
BOSTON (March 13, 2026)– The ArleighBurke-class guided-missile destroyerPre-Commissioning Unit (PCU)
scheduled portvisit,March 13.During the visit, Sailorsassigned to theshipwillparticipateincommunityengagement
commission April 11, 2026,inNorfolk, Virginia (U S.NAVYPHOTOBYCHIEFMASS
PCU Harvey C. Barnum Jr.(DDG 124) Sailors arrive in Boston for scheduled portvisit
CourtesyStory NAVY REGION MID-ATLANTIC
BOSTON —U.S.NavySailors assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer Pre-Commissioning Unit (PCU) Harvey C. Barnum Jr.(DDG 124) arrived in Boston,Massachusetts,March13forascheduledportvisit.
During the visit, the PCUHarvey C. BarnumJr.’screwwillparticipateincommunity outreach engagements with local organizations and membersofthe ship’s commissioningcommittee.Theshipwillalso hostpublictours,offeringvisitorstheopportunity to step aboard and learn more about lifeandoperationsonaU.S.Navywarship
“Our arrivalinBoston is ameaningful milestoneasour crew prepares to commission the Navy’s newestdestroyer andbring thiswarship to life,”saidCmdr. BenCantu,
commanding officer of PCU Harvey C. BarnumJr.“Everyportvisitandengagement isanopportunityforourSailorstorepresent thelegacyofournamesake,MedalofHonor recipient Col. Harvey ‘Barney’ Barnum Jr whilecontinuingtheworkofpreparingthis warship to join the fleet. Ourcrewisproud torepresentthiswarshipandexcitedforthe momentwhenUSSHarveyC.BarnumJr.officiallyentersservice.”
Port visits provide Sailorsopportunities to engage withthe communitiesthey serve whilestrengthening theNavy’sconnection withtheAmericanpublic.
“Boston’shistory and pride make it the perfectplaceforourcrewtoreflectonwhat it means to serve,”said Command Master ChiefKenson Jacques,command master chiefofPCUHarveyC.BarnumJr.“Engaging with the community hereand standing alongside USSConstitution reinforces that
EyeonInnovation:Teamwork
By Kristi RBritt NORFOLK NAVALSHIPYARD
NorfolkNavalShipyard’s(NNSY)Submarine Support Branch (Code 275)Electrical EngineerNicholasSt.Laurentandhisteam were faced with achallenge thatgreatly impacted their ability to focus and finish on the task at hand on theprojects in dry dock. When utilizing the hydraulic pistons ontheship,themagneticswitchesthatwere set up to link with their equipment inside thespaceswerenot connectingproperly, which would cause massive delays in the projects.Controlledevolutionswouldhave toberepeatedtodetermineissueswiththe activation, which would require multiple personnel in thehydraulicspaces at atime foreach evolution. With each failed evolution, time would stretch onfor the project, andtheteamknewtherehadtobeaneasier waytodotheirtesting
“Thesemagneticswitchesinterfacewith magnetswithinourequipmentandwewere finding thatsometimesone or both of the switches weren’tactivated —which would lead into work stoppages as we movedinto controlledevolutionstofindwheretheissues were.Thiswouldcausemassivedelaystothe projectsand wouldeat up manhours to get theworkdoneasitwouldrequireextensive safetyrequirementsand rework,” said St Laurent. “Withinspiration from arig that wehadworkedforPearlHarbor,wedecided to build atestrig that could be used at our workstations insteadofhavingtotestthese magnetsinthespaceswhereitwouldrequire multiplepeopleforeachevolutiontooperate thehydraulics.”
Withavisioninmind,St.Laurentandhis teamstarted out with an initial design that wasrough sketchedinAutoCAD.Hethen
PCU Harvey C. Barnum Jr.isnamed for MedalofHonorrecipientU.S.MarineCorps Col.HarveyC.“Barney”BarnumJr.,whowas awarded theMedalofHonor for extraordinary heroismduringthe VietnamWar.The shipisthefirstwarshiptobearhisname PCUHarveyC.BarnumJr.isaFlightIIA ArleighBurke-classguided-missiledestroyer designed to conduct awide rangeofmaritime operations,including anti-air warfare, anti-submarine warfare, and anti-surface warfareinsupport of national security and globalmaritimestability.Once commissioned, the ship will be capable of operatingindependentlyoraspartofcarrierstrike groups, surface action groups,and expeditionarystrikegroups
The futureUSS Harvey C. BarnumJr. (DDG 124) is scheduled to commission April 11, 2026,inNorfolk, Virginia,and will behomeportedatNavalStationNorfolk.For moreinformationaboutthecommissioning, pleaseseelinkathttps://www.dvidshub.net/ news/559395/navy-announces-commissioning-future-uss-harvey-c-barnum-jr.Formore informationaboutPCUHarveyC.BarnumJr (DDG 124), visit theship’s official U.S. Navy pageat: https://www.surflant.usff.navy mil/ddg124/. COMNAVSURFLANT mans, trainsandequipsassignedsurfaceforcesand shoreactivities,ensuringacapableforcefor conductingpromptandsustainedoperations in support of United Statesnational interests.The SURFLANT forceiscomposed of 77shipsand31shorecommands
Harvey C. Barnum Jr.(DDG 124) arrives in Boston fora
PCUHarvey C. Barnum Jr.isscheduledto
NavalSupport Activity South Potomac focuses on spiritual readiness
By Andrew Revelos
DAHLGREN —Naval Support Activity
South Potomac (NSASP)focusedonspiritual readiness duringa proclamation signingFeb.27atNaval Support Facility(NSF) Dahlgren,whereCommandingOfficerCapt JohnNadderandChaplainLt.JosephJones addressedSailorsandcivilianshipmates.The NavydesignatedJanuaryasSpiritualReadinessMonth,butinclementweatherforceda delaytoNSASP’sceremony. Spiritualreadiness,alsoknownasspiritual fitness,iscloselyrelatedtometalandphysical healthandanimportantcomponentofSailors’successincombat.TheNavydefinesitas the“strengthofspiritthatenablesthewarfightertoaccomplishthemissionwithhonor.”
“Inthelifeofeveryservicemember,there arestorms,”saidReligiousProgramSpecialist 2ndClassVincentPierce.“Wefacechallenges thattestourlimits,deploymentsthattakeus to the four corners of theworld, and uncertaintiesthatcanweighheavilyonourminds.”
Pierce noted howSailors experiencing adversityrelyontraining,equipment,and shipmates,but also inner strength. “Thatis spiritual readiness,” he said. “It’s notabout one specific belief,but theuniversal human needforstrength,purposeandconnection.”
“In the military we train our bodies and sharpenourmindstosupportourmission,” said Jones.“Spiritualreadiness is about strengtheningourminds.Thisproclamation [demonstrates]ourcommand’scommitment to fostering an environment whereevery service member and civilian feelsempoweredtobuildthatinnerstrength.
Naddersaidhesupportstheefforttofocus onspiritualreadinessandurgedallmembers ofthecommandtoapplyathree-partprocess. “Todayisacall to action for all NSASouth Potomac personnel —uniformed and civilian,seniorleadersandjuniorteammates—is beingissuedthatinvolvesthreestepstoward spiritual readiness,” he said.“Look inward, lookoutwardandknowyourresources.”
Thefirst,lookinginward,entailstakingan “honestmoment to ask yourself what your personal values mean, what groundsyou in your daily life and who and what gives you strengthwhenchallengesarise,”saidNadder “Takethetimetoinvestinyouranswer,and grow in your spiritual fitnessjustasyou do
withyourphysicalfitness.”
Lookingoutward,“identifywhereyouturn when youare need of assistance,and evaluatetorecognizewhenothersmayneedyou,” saidNadder.“Checkonyourteammatesand listentoyourteammates.”
Finally,Nadder urgedall members of
NSASPtoseekhelpwhenneeded.“At[NSA SouthPotomac]seeking assistance when needed is understood as asignofstrength, hesaid.“Resiliencyisateameffort.”
Formoreinformation about Spiritual ReadinessatNSASP,calltheCommandReligiousProgramat(540)653-8297
recalled his tour of theCommand TransformationOffice (Code100TO) Innovation Lab during his EmployeeIndoctrination Classandtheservicestheycouldprovideto thoseinneedacrossAmerica’sShipyard—a service his code had experience withfrom otherdesignsthey’dworkedinthepast.With an idea in mind, he reached out to theteam forassistance
“Theywerereallygood at explaining the problemsthey’dbeenhavingandwhatthey needed,includingwhatspecificationswehad toworkwith,”saidCode100TO.32Program AnalystJoelSeamster.“Withtheirinput,we were able to pinpointeach individual problemandaddressthemindividuallywithour designs.”
Throughmultipleiterations,thegroupwas abletocomeupwithamagnetichousingunit thatcanberemovedfromthesubmarineand worked on at the worker’s desk fortesting andrepairs.Theholderitselfisa3Dprinted design that canhouse twomagnets of varying strength per design that can be used to verifyonceitpassedoverthemagnetsinthe switches —itwill activate.It’sable to note even the smallest inconsistencies in the magnetsandtheswitches—whichcanaffect theentiresystem.Itcanalsohelpthemdetermine what underlying causes arehappeningoverallsothattheycanmaketheneeded adjustmentswithouthavingtocontinuously hostcontrolledevolutions.
In addition, the team also developed a secondtoolthatwasspecificfortestingthose individual magnets when they fail. “Since magnetsareknowntohavevaryingmagnetic strength, this capability wasessential,”said Seamster.“Wedesignedaholderthatallows easyinstallationandremovalfortestingeach magnetindividually.”
“We’vealready seen several hundred manhourssavedthankstothesetoolswe’ve developed and we’recontinuously looking at other areas we can improvewith the helpofthelab,”saidSt.Laurent.“It’sessen-
Code 100TO.32 ProgramAnalyst Joel Seamsterand Code 275Electrical EngineerNicholas St.Laurent recently partneredtodevelop magnetic housing tools at NNSY’sInnovation Lab. (PHOTO BYDANIELDEANGELIS,NORFOLKNAVALSHIPYARD)
tialfor us to be innovativeinour thinking as we continue to drivefor completions of our projects and delivering what we promisetothe fleet.Weneed to meet the Navy’s demands so that ourSailors arefitwith the right tools needed on the frontlines.Being able to pinpointwhere improvementsare neededorbeingabletoprojectpossibleissues beforetheyhappensowecanovercomethem ishuge.Andwiththelab,wehaveaone-stop shopfor being able to make thesesolutions
areality.Fromaninitial idea, to aproof of concept, prototyping and testing,and then finallytothefinishlinewithaproductthat’s ready to be rolledout —the lab wasableto help us bringlasting positivechange to the workwedo.”
Interestedinworking with the Innovation Lab? Visitthe NNSY SharePoint site at https://flankspeed.sharepoint-mil.us/sites/ NAVSEA\_NSY\_NORFOLK andclick the HotLinks section to reachthe 3D Print
Requestform.Provideyourcontactinformationandadescriptionofwhatyouneedand theteamwillreachouttocoordinatefurther details,files or designs,aswell as schedule visitstothe spacetoassess on-site. In addition, youcan also visit theCode100TO.3 Innovation and Tech Insertion Division in Bldg.31FirstFloortobringyourideastothem firsthand.
Capt.John Nadder, commanding officerofNaval SupportActivitySouth Potomac(NSASP),signs the Spiritual Readiness proclamation at NavalSupportFacility(NSF) Dahlgren on Feb. 27 (PHOTO BYANDREWREVELOS)
Navy Team competes in Joint Culinary Training Exercise
By Thomas Kreidel NAVAL
The Navy Culinary Arts Team (NCAT) competedagainst17teamsacrossallmilitary services, to include international partners, in the 50th annual Joint Culinary Training Exercise(JCTE)Feb.28-March4atFortLee
The team took home 28 medals, includingtwogold.TheNavywasalsonamedU.S. StudentTeamoftheYear
According to team manager Senior Chief Culinary Specialist Gary Askins, the team consisted of 10 culinary specialists five professionals and five students competinginnearly20differentcategories,suchas OperationalHotFood,pastrychef nutrition andChefoftheYear
“An event like this really lets the culinary specialists show their skills, but also allows themtolearnsomuchmore,”Askinssaid.
Askins a former NCAT member said participants are judged and critiqued by American Culinary Federation judges The feedback helps them when they return to theirhomecommands
Heusedhispreviousexperienceasateam member to help train the team during the two-month period leading up to the event. Askinshelpedthempracticepreparingtheir dishes and managing the nerves that come with performing at a timed competition in frontofalargeaudience.
According to Chief Culinary Specialist Joshua Kohmuench, the Naval Supply SystemsCommand(NAVSUP)HQcommand training officer for fleet culinary specialist support NAVSUP serves as the Navy’s lead organization for the NCAT It provides the
programoversight,structureandsupportthat enablesculinaryspecialiststocompeteatthe highest levels of military culinary competition. NAVSUPcoordinatestheannualselection
and formation of the team, works with fleet stakeholders and Navy food management teams to identify top culinary talent, and organizesthetrainingprogramthatprepares competitorsfortheJCTE.Thecommandalso
provideskeylogisticalandprogramsupport, including training resources, administrative coordination and recognition of team achievements
“Through this effort, NAVSUP helps develop professional culinary skills across thefleetwhileshowcasingtheexpertiseand innovation of Navy culinary specialists at a premier joint-service culinary competition judgedunderAmericanCulinaryFederation standards,”headded.
CulinarySpecialist2ndClassHaiwenWu is a three-time NCAT member, serving this year as a team captain. He said the experiencehasgivenhimskillshecantakebackto thepre-commissioningunitJohnF.Kennedy (CVN79)inareassuchasknifeskills choosing the right meat and the importance of teamwork.
For Culinary Specialist 1st Class R’rianna Davis, a first-time team member who took home a bronze medal in the Pastry Chef of theYearcategory,thehighlightoftheexperience was the two months of training leadingtotheevent. She also had advice for any culinary specialiststhinkingabouttryingoutfornext year’steam.
“Do it, don’t hesitate,” she said. “You’re going to get out of your comfort zone To be comfortable is to be complacent, and you needtobeuncomfortabletolearn.”
Headquartered in Mechanicsburg Pa., NAVSUPemploysaworkforceofmorethan 25,000militaryandcivilianpersonnelworldwide.TheNavySupplyCorpsteamoversees a diverse portfolio, including supply chain management for material support to Navy MarineCorps,jointandcoalitionpartners
Culinary Specialist Second Class Isaiah Ilog, a member of the Navy Culinary Arts Team, is participating in the 50th annual Joint Culinary Training Exercise at Fort Lee, Va This event is the largest American Culinary Federation sanctioned competition in North America, featuring military chefs from around the world. (PHOTO BYTHOMAS KREIDEL,NAVAL
COMMAND)
Navy Culinary Arts Team member Culinary Specialist Third Class Earl Gappi (above left) puts the finishing touch on dessert and Navy Culinary Arts Team member Culinary Specialist
Third Class Lajasmine Foster (above right) helps prepare a meal during the Operational Hot Food Kitchen competition at the Joint Culinary Training Exercise at Fort Lee, Virginia. The team received a silver medal during this event one of several categories at the largest American Culinary Federation sanctioned competition in North America, featuring military chefs from around the world. (PHOTOS BYTHOMAS KREIDEL NAVALSUPPLYSYSTEMS COMMAND)
Take the Helm: Career Development Symposium delivers answers for Sailors
By Petty Officer 1st Class George Bell CHIEF OF NAVAL PERSONNEL
ARLINGTON, Va Want to take your careertothenextlevel?Wanttotalktoyour detailerinperson?Areyouhavingpayissues? TheNavy’sCareerDevelopmentSymposium (CDS) puts Sailors face-to-face with the peoplewhohelpshapetheircareers
Hosted by MyNavyHR, CDS connects Sailors directly with community managers pay and personnel leadership, and program expertsgivingthemanswersonthespot.The intentionofCDSistogiveparticipantsfaceto-faceinteractionswiththepeoplemaking the decisions that directly impact careers
When Sailors understand their options, it enablesthemtomakeinformedchoicesthat benefitthemandtheNavy
By attending CDS, participants can avoid lengthyemailchainsandwaitingforreturned
calls This enables Sailors to take control of their careers and allows subject matter expertstodebunkcommonmisconceptions andprovideaclearpathforward.MyNavyHR wants to breakdown these barriers through forumslikethisandhelpeducateSailorson theiroptionssotheywalkawaywithaplan. Thatplancanshapethenextsetoforders and a bright future in the Navy Part of the symposium consists of a trade show where participantscan:
Force Master Chief Bill Houlihan, Navy personnelcommandforcemasterchief,said events like this give Sailors a critical advantage early in their careers by arming them with tools tailored to them. Various breakout sessions allow attendees to engage with expertsfrommyriadareas,liketheU.S.Naval Community College, Navy COOL, Naval Special Warfare Development Group and more.“TheSailorswhosucceedaretheones whogetinformedearly,”Houlihansaid.“CDS gives them that edge You’re not just hearinggeneralguidanceyou’regettinganswers specifictoyou.”
For many junior Sailors, career decisions can feel overwhelming. CDS simplifies the process by putting everything in one place andfocusingonwhatmattersmost:theindividualSailor OneSailorwhobenefittedfrom thesymposiumwasCulinarySpecialist2nd Class Jasmine Lee, a Sailor stationed in the
Pensacolaarea.
“Thebiggestthingformewasunderstanding my options,” said Lee “I didn’t realize how many programs were available from commissioningpathstospecialassignments It made me feel like I actually have control overwheremycareergoes.
The takeaway is simple: show up, ask questions,andtakecontrol.Whetheryou’re preparingtonegotiateforordersortryingto expandyourcareertoolbox,thebestplaceto dothatisaCDSnearyou.
“Thisisyourcareer,butyou’renotbyyourself,” said Fleet Master Chief John Walker, Manpower,Personnel,Training,andEducation “We’reheretohelpyouunderstandyour options and take action. The more engaged youare,themoreopportunitiesyou’llsee.” TofindoutwhenCDSmaybecomingnear you,visititspageonMyNavyHR.
NAVFAC Commander recognizes Civil Engineer Corps and Seabee birthdays
By Christopher Dunne
NAVAL FACILITIES ENGINEERING SYSTEMS
COMMAND HQ
WASHINGTONNAVYYARD D.C. Rear
Adm.JeffKilian,NavalFacilitiesEngineering SystemsCommand(NAVFAC)commander and chief of Civil Engineers, was joined by civil engineers and Seabees to celebrate the 159th birthday of the Civil Engineer Corps (CEC) and the 84th birthday of the Seabees withacakecuttingceremonyMarch5atthe WashingtonNavyYard Congressauthorizedtheestablishmentof anewNavystaffcorpscomprisedofcommissionedcivilengineersonMarch2,1867 Since then,CECofficershavemadeimmeasurable contributions to a distinguished heritage of unparalleledNavyandMarineCorpsaccomplishments.
“Fromourhumblebeginningstothepresentday,activedutyandreserveSeabeesand CECofficerscontinuetobringuniqueskills and capabilities to bear in support of our Navy and Marine Corps team,” Kilian said. “We are a naval expeditionary force multiplier,bringingcombatoperationssupportto everytheaterinwhichtheNavyandMarine Corpsoperates,epitomizingtheveryessence offorwardpresence.”
TheSeabeeswereofficiallyestablishedon March5,1942,outofacriticalneedtorecruit Sailors with construction experience who couldbuildanddefendadvancenavalbases inawarzone Seabeesarea“24/7”navalforce multiplier, bringing a wide array of expeditionarysupporttoeverytheaterinwhichthe NavyandMarineCorpsoperates KilianrecountedsomeoftheaccomplishmentsofSeabeesoverthepastyear,including
thefollowing:
Seabees continue to pioneer Antarctic operationswithNavalMobileConstruction Battalion (NMCB) 3 in their 3rd season of construction, building a new permanent loadingpieratNationalScienceFoundation McMurdo Station, overcoming a devastatingwinterstormtokeeptheprojectontrack.
In Lithuania, divers from Underwater Construction Team (UCT) 1 executed an exceptionallyhazardousrecovery,tunneling throughmudinanear-freezing,fuel-contaminatedbogtoretrieveasunken70-tonArmy M88vehicleandfourfallensoldiers
NMCB 3 was also part of the U.S. military’s Joint Engineer Response Team that providedaidfollowingtheMyanmarearthquake, providing critical disaster relief in Thailandandworkingalongsidepartnersto locate survivors in the rubble of a collapsed
skyscraper In Iceland, UCT 1 conducted a critical infrastructure assessment that enabled the historic first-ever visit of a U.S. nuclear-poweredsubmarinetoanIcelandicport, providingasignificantoperationaladvantage in the strategic Greenland-Iceland-United Kingdomgap
NMCB 133 rapidly deployed to GuantanamoBay,establishinganexpeditionarycampforupto30,000migrantsinsupport ofTaskForceSouthernGuard.
“ThebraveryandsacrificesofCECofficers andSeabeesinWorldWarII,Korea,Vietnam, Iraq andAfghanistanarewellknown,”Kilian said. “As we celebrate both of these special occasions, I extend my heartiest birthday greetingstoCECofficersandSeabeeseverywhere.”
Beauchamp takes command of Navy test squadron, “The
By NAWCAD Visual Information
Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 20 changed command on March 5 during a ceremony at Naval Air Station Patuxent River,Md.,whereCmdr RobertBeauchamp assumed leadership from Cmdr. Jessica Barrientos
TheceremonywaspresidedoverbyCapt Scott Wastak, the director of the Navy Liaison Office for the House of Representatives and former commodore of the Airborne Command&ControlandLogisticsWing
“Cmdr Barrientos, your leadership has beennothingshortofextraordinary you’ve guided VX-20 through complex challenges with grace precision and that signature fire we’ve all come to admire, said Wastak. “Cmdr.Beauchampyourproventrackrecord inaviationtestandleadershipmakesyouthe perfectfittoleadVX-20initsnextchapter.”
“Workingwiththededicatedprofessionals of VX-20 is both a privilege and a responsibility that I hold in the highest regard,” said Beauchamp “ThemissionofVX-20isvitalto advancingournavalaviationcapabilitiesand ensuringthefleetisequippedandreadywith thebestourcountryhastooffer.”
Beauchamp, a Phoenix native and 2007 U.S. Naval Academy graduate, has over 1,600 flight hours in 25 aircraft Commissionedin2007,BeauchampearnedaMaster of Science in systems engineering analysis from the Naval Postgraduate School in 2008 He flew with Airborne Command & Control Squadron 124 during deployments aboardUSSGeorgeH.W.Bush(CVN-77)in support of operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. After graduating from the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School, Beauchamp served as projectofficeratVX-20,classdeskengineer attheNavy’sStrikePlanningandExecution Systems Program, and again at VX-20 as E-2/C-2Governmentflighttestdirector He heldaleadershiproleatOperationalTestand EvaluationForcebeforereturningtoVX-20 aschieftestpilotin2024.
“It has been the privilege of a lifetime to lead this command,” said Barrientos “I am continually impressed by the passion and professionalismthisteambringseveryday.” Barrientos aChicagonativeand2005U.S. Naval Academy graduate, has accumulated more than 2,800 flight hours in 20 aircraft Designatedasanavalflightofficerin2007 she flew the E-2C Hawkeye 2000 with Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 113 in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.Shelaterservedasadevelopmentaltest flight officer at VX-20, where she led Naval IntegratedFireControltesting Sheservedas
adepartmentheadwithAirborneCommand andControlSquadron(VAW)126flyingthe E-2DonaSixthFleetdeployment Barrientos’ finaltourwaswithVX-20,whereshebecame chief test pilot before taking command in 2024 VX-20isresponsibleforflighttestingand evaluationinallphasesoftheweaponssystem lifecycle,includingaircraftcarriersuitability testing,navigation,aerialrefueling,strategic airbornecommunications,airbornesurveillance and intelligence collection, airborne earlywarningsystems,carrieronboarddeliv-
For more information about NAWCAD, visit www.navair.navy.mil or follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ MyNAWCAD/.
Cmdr Robert Beauchamp speaks after assuming command of Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 20 as outgoing commander
Cmdr Jessica Barrientos sits behind him during a change of command ceremony at Naval Air Station Patuxent River Md on March 5. Beauchamp, who previously served as the squadron’s chief test pilot, relieved Barrientos, who is retiring after 21 years of service. (U.S. NAVYPHOTO BYLINDSAYWOOLEYHAND)
THE BIRTH OF A STANDARD:
Recognizing the legacy of Rear Adm. David W. Taylor
By Alisha Tyer NAVAL SURFACE WARFARE CENTER
CARDEROCK DIVISION
BETHESDA, Md On March 4, Naval SurfaceWarfareCenter,CarderockDivision recognizesthebirthdayofRearAdm.David W. Taylor the naval architect and engineer whose insistence on scientific rigor helped reshape how the U.S. navy designs ships For those who work at Carderock, that date marksmorethantheanniversaryofahistoricalfigure;itmarksthebeginningofalegacy shaped the command’s engineering standards
When Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) emphasizes delivering combatready ships and systems to the fleet, that expectation rests on disciplined engineeringandvalidatedperformance AtCarderock, those principles are not new; they are foundational.
In 1898, Taylor designed and supervised constructionoftheWashingtonNavyYard’s ExperimentalModelBasinandtookchargeof itthefollowingyear Hewasnotsimplybuilding a towing tank; he was institutionalizing a method. Ship design would no longer rely primarily on experience or approximation, butoncontrolledexperimentation,measurableresultsandrepeatablestandards
Throughthedevelopmentofwhatbecame knownastheTaylorStandardSeries,Taylor introducedasystematicsetofhullformswith documentedperformancedata.Navalarchitects could compare, analyze and estimate
Morethanacenturylater,thatexpectation remains intact across Carderock’s mission areas Whether in hydrodynamics structures, materials, manufacturing or survivability, scientists and engineers across the commandcontinuetoapplyrigorousanalysis andtestingtoensurenavalsystemsperform as intended. The tools have advanced, but the principle is unchanged: Validate before youdeliver.
Taylor’s career reflected that same alignmentbetweeninnovationandexecution.He held 13 U.S. patents related to ship design and later served as chief of the Bureau of Construction and Repair during a period of significantfleetexpansion.Hisworkdemonstrated that invention must be paired with technicalrigorandoperationalrelevance Carderockdidnotpivottowarddisciplined engineeringinresponsetomodernstrategy Itwasfoundedonit.
TheDavidTaylorModelBasin,dedicated in 1939 in his presence, stands as a physical reminder of that foundation But the true legacy is not the facility itself; it is the standarditrepresents Beforetherewere“linesof effort, therewasacommitmenttoevidence, repeatability and accountability in design. That commitment continues to define how Carderockcontributestonavalreadinessand maritimesuperiority
Historic towing carriage equipment operates inside the David Taylor Model Basin at the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Carderock Division. The basin traces its origins to the
Experimental Model Basin established by Rear Adm. David W. Taylor in the late 19th century to
conduct hydrodynamic testing and improve ship design through controlled experimentation. (U.S.NAVYPHOTO)
BELOW: Interior view of the U.S. Navy Experimental Model Basin at the Washington Navy Yard in Washington, D.C., circa 1918 The facility supported hydrodynamic testing of ship models to measure resistance and performance characteristics, advancing data-driven naval architecture methods introduced by Rear Adm. David W. Taylor (U.S.NAVYPHOTO)
Rear Adm. David W. Taylor, a pioneering naval engineer and namesake of the David Taylor Model Basin, helped transform U.S. Navy ship design by introducing rigorous experimental testing and data-driven engineering methods in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. (U.S.NAVYPHOTO)
ABOVE: Rear Adm. David W. Taylor chief of the U.S. Navy Bureau of Construction and Repair during World War I, helped modernize naval ship design through scientific testing and engineering analysis. Taylor also oversaw development of the Experimental Model Basin, establishing systematic methods for evaluating ship hull performance. (U.S.NAVYPHOTO)
Navy medicine experts convene to bolster hospital ship readiness
Courtesy Story NAVAL MEDICAL READINESS LOGISTICS
COMMAND WILLIAMSBURG, VA
FORT DETRICK, Md In a critical effort to ensure peak medical readiness for the Navy’s hospital ships (T-AH), subject matter experts from across Navy Medicine gatheredatNavalMedicalReadinessLogistics Command (NMRLC) Detachment Fort Detrick to review the Authorized Medical Allowance List (AMAL) for pharmacy and anesthesia,keycomponentssupportingRole 3medicalcare.
Hospitalshipsoperateasfloatingtrauma centers and acute surgical hospitals often deploying worldwide to support humanitarianassistanceanddisasterreliefmissions Their effectiveness depends on having the rightmedicalequipmentandsupplies,particularlyinspecializedareassuchaspharmacy andanesthesia.
Theimportanceofensuringshipsdeploy with the right medical capabilities was recentlydemonstratedduringBuilder’sSea TrialsaboardtheaircraftcarrierPCUJohnF. Kennedy(CVN79),whentheship’smedical teamsuccessfullyperformedanemergency appendectomywhileunderwayintheAtlanticOcean.Conductedwiththeship’sonboard surgicalequipmentandsupplies,theprocedure highlighted how careful planning and provisioningenablelifesavingcareevenwhile operatingfarfromshore
The team at NMRLC Detachment Fort Detrickcontributedtothatreadinessbyoverseeing procurement and initial outfitting of the carrier’s medical department before sea trials Efforts like these, ensuring the right pharmaceuticals, anesthesia systems, surgical instruments, and consumables are availablewhenneeded,mirrorthesamedeliberate process Navy Medicine leaders use when reviewing and refining AMALs to support
OperatingEnvironment(POE)whilereflecting current clinical standards and lessons learnedfromrecenthumanitarianmissions
“The AMAL review is fundamental to ourabilitytoprovideadvancedmedicaland surgicalservicesafloat,”saidLt Cmdr Telia Wright,officerinchargeofNMRLCDetachmentFortDetrick.“Forhospitalshipsdelivering Role 3 care, maintaining a robust and currentpharmacyandanesthesiainventory is not just a logistical detail; it is the foundationoftheirlifesavingmissionduringacrisis.” Role 3 care represents a theater-level hospitalcapability,providingservicesrangingfromresuscitationandsurgerytopost-operative care and intensive care treatment. Anesthesiologists and pharmacists play a criticalroleinthisprocessbymanagingpain, preparingpatientsforcomplexprocedures, andensuringthesafeadministrationofmedications RegularAMALreviewsensurethese specialistshavethetools,fromgeneralanestheticstocritical-caremedications,required tooperateeffectivelyinaustereanddemandingenvironments By refining these medical loadouts, Navy Medicinestrengthenstheentiresupplychain andimprovestheresilienceandreadinessof thefleet.Ensuringhospitalshipsareproperly equipped enables Navy Medicine to deliver world-classmedicalsupportwhileprojecting hopeandhealingtonationsinneed
By Steven Infanti NAVAL SURFACE WARFARE CENTER
PHILADELPHIA DIVISION
Naval Surface Warfare Center Philadelphia Division (NSWCPD) opened National Engineers Week Feb. 22 28, 2026 with a reminderthatengineeringisnotanabstract discipline, but a mission-driven profession shapedbyconstantquestioningandcontinuoustransformation.
Despite a snowstorm that prompted its February24kickoffeventtogovirtual leadersfromacrossthecommandandtheNaval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) Warfare CentersEnterpriseemphasizedtheenduring responsibilityengineershavetosupportthe warfighter.Citingthisyear’stheme,“TransformYourFuture, NSWCPD’sActingChief Technology Officer and kickoff emcee, Dr Stephen Mastro, framed the week as more thanacelebrationofcareerpaths.Itwas,he said,areflectionontheprofessionitself
“Engineeringis,atitscore,abouttransformation,” Mastro told participants. “We take complex problems operational needs and emergingrisksandturnthemintosolutions thataresafe,reliable,andmission-readyfor thefleet.”
NSWCPD Commanding Officer Capt Joseph Darcy anchored his remarks in a 1974 speech by Adm. Hyman G. Rickover, who challenged engineers to never stop asking whether they understood not only whattheyweredoing,butwhy.Darcyechoed thatcharge
“Questionsaresomeofourbestweapons,” hesaid.“Theyhelpexposeweaknessesinour arguments and help formulate solutions to those weaknesses. Don’t stop asking questions.”
Keynote speaker Senior Scientific TechnicalManagerforEngineeringandTechnology at NAVSEA Warfare Centers Farzana “Deeba”Chowdhuryexpandedthatmessage to the strategic environment engineers face today.
“What does it mean to be an engineer today, in an era when our adversaries are innovating at a blistering pace? she asked “Yourepresenttheintellectualfirepowerthat willdefinethenextgenerationofourNavy’s dominance.”
The kickoff set the tone for the week NSWCPD translated that call to curiosity and innovation into tangible engagement openingitslabstostudents,connectingyoung engineers with seasoned professionals, and highlighting leaders whose paths into engineeringwereanythingbutpredictable
NSWCPD’s hallways filled with students andteachersforahands-onScience Technology,EngineeringandMathematics(STEM) Outreach Day event. Sixty-one students, including 51 from Add B. Anderson School in Philadelphia and 10 members of the For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST) Robotics Competition (FRC) robotics team, LunaTecs, FRC 316,movedthroughlaboratoriesmoreoften associatedwithshipsystemsandpropulsion testingthanwithmiddleschoolfieldtrips
Capt. Darcy greeted the group with an unexpected analogy: the LEGO brick. He usedittoillustratehoweventhemostfamiliar object embodies layers of engineering design,materialsscience,andmanufacturing precision. From there, he drew a line to the complexsystemsNSWCPDengineersdesign and sustain for the fleet. Students rotated through several test sites and labs At each stop,engineerstranslatedtechnicalconcepts into demonstrations, from control systems thatmakeconstantadjustmentstokeepships steadyatseatofluiddynamicsexperiments thatletstudentsseetheprinciplesinaction. NSWCPD Controls Engineering LPD NavigationLeadJenniferDeFriecedescribed control systems as “quiet problem-solvers
The collaborative meeting brought together logistics experts, Hospital Corpsmen,andclinicalleadersrepresentingMili-
tary Sealift Command, Defense Health Agency NMRLC Williamsburg, and the hospital ships USNS Mercy (T-AH-19) and USNSComfort(T-AH-20).Theircombined expertisehelpedvalidateandrefinethelists ofpharmaceuticals,anesthesiasupplies,and other consumables ensuring the medical allowances align with each ship’s Required OperationalCapability(ROC)andProjected
Headed by Capt. Christopher Barnes, NMRLCdevelops acquires produces fields, sustains, and provides enduring lifecycle supportofmedicalmaterielsolutionstothe Fleet, Fleet Marine Force, and Joint Forces inhigh-endcompetition,crisis,andcombat. AttheforefrontofNavyMedicine’sstrategic evolution, NMRLC is well-positioned to be theJointForce’spremierintegratedmedical logisticssupportactivity
inthebackground,”explainingthatwithout them, the ship would not behave properly Nearby, students experimented with wave mechanicsandelectromagnetism,sometimes withwideeyesasmagnetssnappedtogether orfieldspushedobjectsapart.
For members of the LunaTecs robotics team, the exchange was mutual Between tours,theyrolledouttheircompetitionrobot anddemonstratedsensors,wiring,andcode toyoungerstudents
ThemostreflectiveportionofSTEMDay came during a career panel moderated by Mastro NSWCPD Engineers Shrey Shah, Yaseen Farooq, Sharifa Sharfeldden, and JaimeCalderondiscussedtheircareerjourneys and fielded a variety of questions from students
“For me, it really came down to exposure and asking questions,” Farooq told the students “Once you start pulling on that string of curiosity, engineering becomes a waytokeepaskingbetterquestionsandthen actuallybuildtheanswers.”
Toconcludetheweek,NSWCPDhosteda virtualSTEMEngineeringLeadershipPanel featuringthreemechanicalengineerswhose careers span academia, national security, space, and community outreach: Dr Kerri Phillips of the Johns Hopkins University AppliedPhysicsLaboratory;Dr JulieDrzymalski of Temple University; and Dr Laura StubbsoftheUniversityofPennsylvania
The panel drew more than 75 attendees includingstudentsfromschoolsinPennsylvania and Delaware, as well as early-career engineersandseasonedprofessionals
The panelists described career paths that were anything but linear Stubbs once planned to become a lawyer Drzymalski considered majoring in music Phillips dreamed of becoming an astronaut before shiftingtowardsystemsengineering
Their collective message was consistent: engineeringrewardspersistencemorethan
earlycertainty
“Try new things,” Drzymalski advised students “Youhavetolovewhatyoudo Don’t be afraid to take risks.” Phillips addressed a question about whether formal credentials definecapability Havingearnedhermaster’s degreeinsystemsengineeringwhileworking full-time she emphasized that competence takes multiple forms “I work with senior engineers who are systems engineers by degree andIworkwithotherswholearned onthejob,”shesaid.“WhenIhaveasystems engineer working with me, I usually do not knowwhethertheyare‘degreed’ornot.
When a Northeast High School student askedwhethersomeonewithgraphicdesign skills could collaborate with engineers, Drzymalski pointed to the growing role of human-centereddesign
“Yes,” she said. “Graphic designers work withengineerstotranslatefunctionalityinto something usable But you have to be willingtolearntheproblemandunderstandthe problem.”
Across the week’s events, a pattern emerged.Atthestrategiclevel,leaderscalled onengineerstoremaincuriousanddeliberateinarapidlyevolvingthreatenvironment. Inthelaboratories studentstestedphysical principles firsthand. On the virtual panel, professionals demonstrated that engineeringidentityisshapedasmuchbyadaptability andcommunicationasbyequations
More than half of NSWCPD’s workforce are engineers and scientists supporting surface ships and submarines, conducting research and development, test and evaluation, and in-service engineering The commandemploysapproximately2,700civilians and serves as the Navy’s lead organizationforship-systemcybersecurity.Butduring National Engineers Week, the focus broadened. The conversation extended beyond propulsionbearingsandpowersystemstothe nextgeneration,withrobotsrollingacrossa labfloororengineersdescribingcareerpivots thatoncefeltuncertain. Theweek’sthemechallengedparticipants
totransformtheirfuture.AtNSWCPD,that transformationwaspresentednotasasingle momentbutasacontinuum onethatbegins with a question, grows through hands-on discovery, and matures into professional responsibility for systems that operate with no margin for error. Engineering is not only aboutbuildingshipsandsystems Itisabout buildingthepeoplewhowillsustainthem. NSWCPD employs approximately 2,700 civilianengineers scientists technicians and supportpersonnel.Thecommandconducts research and development, test and evaluation,acquisitionsupport,andin-serviceand logisticsengineeringfornon-nuclearmachinery ship machinery systems and related equipment and material for Navy surface shipsandsubmarines,andservesasthelead organizationprovidingcybersecurityforall shipsystems
Allowance List concerning pharmacy and anesthesia,vital components for Role 3
care From Left to right: HM1 Emmanuel Dei, Mr Germaine Haywood, Mrs. Mindy Scruggs (DHA), Mr Ryan Lloyd Mr Charles Elliot (MSC), Capt. Noel Koenig (USNS Mercy), Lt Cmdr Chirag Patel, Mr Mario Brito, Lt Johnathan Oliva (USNS Mercy), HM1 Katlyn Schrecengost Royal Navy LEUTJosephine Hancock. (PHOTOBYJULIUSEVANS)
Quarterdeck
NAVSTA NORFOLK WINS 2026 ‘BEST OF THE MESS’ COOKING COMPETITION
By Cryptologic Technician Collection 1st Class Jose Resendez
PORTSMOUTH, Va Naval Station (NAVSTA)Norfolk’sculinaryspecialistswere namedtheoverallwinnersoftheBestofthe Mess competition at Rivers Casino marking their second consecutive victory at the competition.
TheannualBestoftheMesscompetitionis hostedbytheChiefPettyOfficerScholarship Fund(CPOSF),acharitableorganizationthat raisesfundsforscholarshipstospousesand children of U.S. Navy Chiefs Senior Chiefs andMasterChiefs Since1998,theorganizationhasgrantedover$1.8millionforqualified candidates
This year’s Best of the Mess theme was “Shades of Red: A Royal Ball,” and featured heraldingtrumpetsaswellasmedievalmusic throughouttheevent.Asidefromtheculinary
delights,theeventalsooffereddoorprizes a liveandsilentauctionandacostumecontest.
NAVSTANorfolk’steamconsistedofCulinary Specialist 1st Class Jevonte Deloach, CulinarySpecialist2ndClassSammyWatson, and Culinary Specialist 3rd Class K’shon Anthony. While this marked the first time anyofthesecookshavecompetedintheBest oftheMess,Deloachhascompetedincooking competitions before and knows what it takestowin.
“Wepracticedcookingeveryweekdayfor twomonthsandworkedonourpresentation fortwoweeksuptotheevent,”saidDeloach. “Whenwecraftedameal,weaskedourselves how we can make it better and changed the flavorsandtexturestobemorepalatable.”
The competition included USS Montpelier(SSN765),USSKearsarge(LHD3) USS Bataan (LHD 5), USS Porter (DDG 78) and Assault Craft Unit 2. Each competing team
was required to use bone-in pork tenderloin, pineapple, tomatillos, jicama and kale in their dishes The contest began at 2 p.m. sharp,withallteamsgiven90minutestocraft theirmeals
The NAVSTA Norfolk menu consisted of Caribbean shrimp bites as the appetizer, Jamaicanspicedporktenderloinpinwheels for the entrée, and pineapple upside-down cakefordessert.Duringthecookingprocess, theteamfacedmanychallenges.
“We were dealing with a ‘whatever can go wrong, will go wrong’ situation in the kitchen,” said Deloach. “One burner went out, followed by a handwasher shortly after that.Wehadtohavebackupsforeverything, but in the end, we were able to get our food submittedbeforethedeadline.”
Official judging of the meals began at 3:30p.m.,whileattendeesoftheeventwere invited to indulge in dinner at 7 p.m. After
muchdeliberationbyboththetastingjudges and the attendees, the NAVSTA Norfolk galley crew were declared the winners of thecompetition. Fortheteam,thewinwastheculmination ofweeksofhardworkandlongnightsatthe galley,buttheireffortspaidoffintheend. “It’s a big relief for the competition to be over,” said Deloach. “All of the stress was during the preparation of the event. The cooking was the fun part We set high expectationsforourselvesandknewwehad tobackupeverythingpeopleexpectedfrom usaswell.”
The victory marks NAVSTA Norfolk’s secondconsecutivevictoryafterwinningthe titlein2024,andthegalleycrew’sfourthwin overall.NAVSTANorfolkintendstocompete innextyear’scompetitionandbringanother trophybacktothegalley.
YORKTOWN Va NavalWeapons Station (NWS) Yorktown is undertaking a comprehensive, decade-long modernization of its ordnance storage infrastructure to support the Navy Munitions CommandAtlantic’s(NMCLANT) mission to manage the U.S. Navy’s Atlantic Fleet ordnance The upgrade is critical as aging infrastructure has hampered the station’scapabilities EstablishedonAugust7,1918,as the U.S. Navy Mine Depot, NWS Yorktownholdsasignificantplace in U.S. naval history and continues to be of vital strategic importance. It serves as the Navy’s primary East Coast ordnance and ammunition storage center and is the main ordnance load-out point for combatantsandsubmarines With itsprotecteddeep-wateraccessand expansive land area, the station’s locationontheYorkRiverprovides acritical“explosivecorridor”tothe Atlantic,makingitanessentialhub forthewarfightingcapabilityofthe ArmedForces
“YorktowniswhereourNation’s independencewaswonandcontinues to play a vital role in the safety, security,anddefenseofourcountry today,”saidCaptainDanPatrick,NWSYorktown’sCommandingOfficer Despiteitsideallocation,nearly70percent of the 200 magazines at the station were constructedbefore1960 Manyofthesesmall, igloo-type magazines, with an average age of 85 years suffer from significant capacity, configuration, and condition issues These
“These new magazines, with wider doors and large handling areas, will significantly improve operational efficiency and safetyforourworkforce,”saidDaveReeves NMCLANT Detachment Yorktown Opera-
tionsManager Theextensivemilitaryconstructionproject involves replacing the antiquated facilities with 32 state-of-the-art, earth-covered “7-bar” magazines This designation signifies a high level of blast resistance, allowing the new magazines to be placed closer together and improving land use effi-
ciency Constructed from reinforced concrete, these magazines also incorporate advanced safety features like lightning protection and specialized ventilation to ensure the thermal stability and security of the munitions within. The mandatory two-foot-thick earth covering provides thermal insulation and a crucial barrier againstblastwavesandfragments
“The primary purpose of an Earth-CoveredMagazine(ECM)is nottocontainaninternalexplosion buttoshielditscontentsfromablast inanadjacentmagazine,preventing acatastrophicchainreaction,”said Scott
establishment in 1918 The first phase, whichincludedtennewmagazines iscomplete,whilethesecondphase todeliveranadditionalfiveunitsis nearingcompletion. This recapitalization effort will provideNMCLANTwithadequate secure facilities to properly store the Atlantic Fleet’s new modern weapons aligningwiththespecific configuration and physical security requirements for current and futureweaponsprogramscurrently indevelopment.
“This investment in new modern magazines
BYDAMAGE
Larry Stafford, Code 293Combat Systems Electronics Technician is oneofNorfolk NavalShipyard’srepresentativesin the NAVSEA JourneyLevel Leaders (JLL)Program for2026. (PHOTO BYSHELBY WEST,NORFOLKNAVALSHIPYARD)
MonicaVann, Code 900Q NuclearAssessment Improvement Coordinator, is one of Norfolk NavalShipyard’s representatives in the NAVSEAJourneyLevel Leaders(JLL)Program for2026 (PHOTO BY SHELBYWEST,NORFOLKNAVALSHIPYARD)
Meet NNSY’s Journey LevelLeaders: MonicaVannand Larry Stafford
This one-year initiative invites high-performingcivilian employees whohavedemonstrated progressiveleadership experience and seek to expandtheir horizons to join other representatives across theenterpriseinahybridenvironmentforlearning.Withclassroom instruction,networkingopportunities,teambuilding,a90-dayrotation,and aCapstone project pursuinganissue thataligns withthe NAVSEA CampaignPlan —thisexperience not only buildsuptheir toolbeltforfutureendeavorsbutalsoconnectsthemdirectlytoheadquarters,theothershipyards,warfarecenters,regionalmaintenance centers,andotherareasacrosstheenterprisethattheymayhavenever beenlinkedtopreviouslyintheirdailyroles.
Stay tuned to upcoming Service to the Fleet editions wherewe’ll highlightmoreoftheNNSY/NRMD-KBrepresentativestakingonthe JLLprogramandheartheirthoughtsandgoalsastheypressforward
To learnmoreabout the JLL program and tostayup-to-date with futureannouncements forapplication, pleasevisit [https://flankspeed.sharepoint-mil.us/sites/NAVSEA JLL](https://flankspeed. sharepoint-mil.us/sites/NAVSEA_JLL).
StaffordistheleadtechnicianfortheUltraHighFrequencySatellite CommunicationsSystemfor theUSS Dwight D. Eisenhower(CVN 69)ProjectatNNSY.HerecentlylearnedoftheJLLProgramandthe opportunitiesitcouldpresentfornetworkingatdifferentsiteswithin theenterpriseandexpandingone’sleadershipskills,anddecidedto apply
“Iwantedtoenhancemyownskillsandgainadeeperunderstanding of the inner workingsofNAVSEA,soI took theleap,” said Stafford.Hewasthrilledtobeacceptedinto2026’scadreandislooking forwardtowhatopportunitieswouldpresentthemselvestohimand histeammates.“ThesetypesofprogramsfromtheNAVSEALeadershipDevelopmentContinuum(LDC)areimportanttoallowtheexistingleadershiptoseetheskillsetandinterestsofthenewgenerationof personnelthatareworkinginthevariouslocationswithinNAVSEA Theyallowthenewpersonnelanopportunitytoseeotherareasthat mightinterestthemintheir future endeavorsand mayenticethem
tostayandgrowwithinNAVSEA.”
When it comes to workforce development, Staffordthinks that programs likethe LDCand the JLLare essential offerings to those lookingforwaystogrowintheirprofessionaljourney.“Ifyouhavethe slightestgoalsofbeingahigher-levelemployeeorjustwanttoaddto yourskillsetapplyeverytimeitsopen,”hesaid.“Theworstthatcould happenisyoudon’tgetaccepted.Keeptryingandworkingtodevelop yourself—andapplywheneveryoucantoopportunities.”
Monica Vann Code 900Q NuclearAssessmentImprovement Coordinator
VannworksasaQualityAdvocateatNNSY,withherdutiesincludingleadingahigh-performingteamresponsibleforverifyingcompliance with stringent technical requirements, conducting thorough researchtoresolveambiguitiesandensureclarity,deliveringcomprehensiveanalysis reports and information briefingstomanagement, andensuringalignmentwithnuclearmechanicaloperations.Shetakes thechallengesofeachdayhead-on,readytoservetheNavy—aswell ascontinuetodevelopintotheleadersheaimstobe.
DuringherinquiriesregardingtheNNSYExecutiveDevelopment Program,anotherleadershipprogramofferedthroughtheshipyard, shecameacrossinformationfortheJLLandtheNAVSEALDCinitiatives that were available.With detailed announcements goingover the applicationprocess, Vann decided to takeachance and applied —securingoneoftheslotsforthe2026cadre
“Myprimarygoalistoacquirecomprehensiveknowledgeandrefine mypeopleandprocessskillstofosterenhancedpersonneldevelopment,”saidVann.“Ibelievetheinsightsgainedfromthisopportunity will significantly increasemycontributions to theNAVSEA organization.”
VannfeelsthatworkforcedevelopmentprogramsliketheLDCand theJLLareessentialtohelpemployeesfeelempoweredintheirprofessionalgrowth.“Theseprogramsareimmenselyimportantbecauseit createsabeneficialrippleeffectthatcontinuestoevolvefarintothe future,”she explained.“Gainingpractical understanding through immersioninareasoutsideofcurrentresponsibilitiesprovidesindividualswithvaluableknowledgeandtraining,fosteringtheirprofessional evolution.Tomaintainitsstrategicadvantage,NAVSEAisinvesting in workforce development and introducing moreopportunities for innovative thinkers to professionally mature within theenterprise. It’s important that if anyone is looking to applytothese programs Iimploreyou to shoot your shot. Pursue opportunities proactively, as unforeseen positiveoutcomes mayarisefromyour initiative. It is crucial to acknowledgeand appreciate the significant value and influenceyou contribute bothtothe organization and your specific areaofresponsibility.Takethatchance,everytime,andyou’llseethe rewardsforyourpassionandeffort.
Mid-Atlantic Fleet and Family SupportCenters(FFSC) programs andservices are designedtohelp youmake the mostofyour military experience, andthey’re all available to youatnocost.
SHIPYARD SPOTLIGHT: Ernest Vales, Special Emphasis Work (Code 361) Lead Zone Manager
By Susanne Greene NORFOLK NAVAL SHIPYARD
Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) Special Emphasis Work (Code 361) Lead Zone Manager Ernest Vales is as enthusiastic abouthiscareeratNNSYasheisatorganizing CrossFit workouts and coaching youth footballandvariouscompetitiverecreational sports
“AsoneoftheleadzonemanagersforCode 361,bothatKesselringSiteOperations(KSO) andNNSY,Valeshassuccessfullyledseveral high-profile projects this year from emergent work at Naval Air Station North Island (NANSI) in San Diego, California to planning and executing first time work at KSO,” said NNSY Special Emphasis Work (C361) Assistant Project Superintendent Nicholas Eddings “On top of his significant involvement in other Code 361 work the previous yearatKSOsuccessfullycompletingafteran overthree-yearplanningeffort,consistently deliveringexceptionalresultswithunwaveringdedicationandastrongworkethic.”
His coworkers commend Vales for his attentiontodetailandcommitmenttoexcellencetoensurethateverytaskmeetsthehigheststandards
“Heconsistentlydemonstratesanexceptionalabilitytostepinandsupporthispeers withminimaldirection—oftentakingonthe managementofongoingcomplextasksthat typically require a detailed handover,” said Eddings “His instinctive understanding of what’s needed, combined with his skill in asking the right questions at the right time, ensuresfirst-timequalityandsetshimapart astrulyuniqueinthiscapability.”
Vales’s work ethic and attention to detail was shaped by advice he was given several
Throughout his time at NNSY he understands that you don’t have to know everything, but you need to know where to go to find the answers. He also feels that part of networking is knowing how that new contact’srolefitsinwithwhatyoudo
For anyone interested in his field, he believesit’simportanttohaveaclearunderstanding of what you do “Read the Task GroupInstructions(TGI)andthepaperwork andunderstandtheworkthatyouaredoing, especially at my level, right now, because essentiallyI’minchargeoftheschedule,the money andtheresources,”saidVales “Myjob istomakesureeverythingflowsandmeshes together,andIcan’tdothatifIdon’tunderstandthework.”
Vales’s networking and positive attitude contribute to his success as a Lead Zone Manager
yearsago
“You’re only as good as the last thing you did,” said NNSY Special Emphasis Work (Code361)LeadZoneManagerErnestVales. “Likefiveyearsago,Icouldhavebeenthebest supervisor,butifIlosethatdriveoranytype of fire to get stuff done, that’s what they’re goingtoremembermefor.”
CNRFC SOY chosen
By Petty Officer 1st Class David Warren COMMANDER, NAVY RESERVE FORCE
Commander, Navy Reserve Forces Command (CNRFC) selected the Sailor of the Year and Shore Sailor of the Year (SOY) winnersinNorfolk,Va onFeb.25,2026 Master-at-Arms 1st Class William J. Schwartzwasnamedthe2025CNFRCSOY. Yeoman 1st Class Gabrielle V. Polistico was recognizedastheShoreSOY. Schwartz and Polistico were among the top10finalistsinaforceofmorethan39,000 Sailors
Rear Adm. Luke A. Frost, Commander, CNRFC, praised the quality of the Sailor of the Year candidates and acknowledged the valueoftheirsupportnetworks “Welldone and congratulations to all. I would also like to recognize the respective families and the unit leadership who supported each of the finalists,”Frostsaid.“Theirsupportremains criticaltothesuccessofeachofourSailors.” CNRFC Command Master Chief Robert W.LyonsIIwasalsoimpressedbythefinalists “Thisyear’sSailoroftheYearcandidates, representing the CNRFC enterprise were ofanexceptionallyhighcaliber, saidLyons.
Vales coaches his team members at work and encourages everyone to network and meet people He believes there’s value in knowingwhodoeswhatatNNSY “Beoutgoing,evenifit’sscary,”saidVales
“AtNNSYyouworkwithdifferentkindsof peoplefromdifferentbackgrounds upbringings,andit’shelpedshapeme,”saidVales Communication is key to fulfilling your objectivesandValescanacclimateandunderstandtheenvironmentheisworkinginand the people he works with These skills also helphimincoachinghisson’ssportsteams “Ernest Vales exemplifies the qualities of adedicatedleader,mentor,androlemodel,” saidNNSYEnvironmentalandEngineering andCompliance(C106.31)ResourceConservationandRecoveryAct(RCRA)Hazardous WasteProgramManagerShelbyBayless “His positiveinfluenceandtirelesseffortsleavea lastingimpactwhereverhegoes.”
“Their poise, professionalism, and pride in service are a testament to the fact that our Navy is truly the finest fighting force in the world.”
FinalistsfromtheSelectReservecommunity included: Builder 1st Class Miguel A. Puentes,NavyReserveCenterElPasoMasterat-Arms 1st Class Bradley A. Sather Navy Reserve Center Detroit Boatswain’s Mate 1stClassLorenzoraeY.Balane,NavyReserve CenterLosAngelesLegalman1stClassJenniferM.Rahey,NavyReserveRegionReadiness andMobilizationCommandEverett FinalistsfromtheTrainingandAdministrationoftheReserveandActiveComponent included:NavyCounselor1stClassAshleyA. Cody Navy Reserve Center Kitsap Personnel Specialist 1st Class Austin H. Harbaugh, CommanderNavyReserveForcesCommand Yeoman 1st Class Toneil, K. Robinson, Navy ReserveCenterFortWorthYeoman1stClass KaylynWorrell,NavyReserveCenterKnoxville Schwartz and Polistico will compete against other U.S. Navy Reserve Type Commands’ SOY winners to become 2025 ChiefofNavyReserveSailoroftheYear
Navy begins demolition of six buildings at former Hunters Point Naval Shipyard in San Francisco
By Christopher Dunne
SYSTEMS COMMAND HQ
SAN FRANCISCO Work has begun on the abatement and removal of hazardous materials for six buildings scheduled to be demolished at the former Hunters Point NavalShipyardunderacontractawardedto Burlingame,California-basedECC Demolitionofbuildings351,351A 366 401, 411 and 439 is slated to begin in late March, withplannedcompletionwithin15months “This contract begins the congressionally authorized building removal work at the former Shipyard said Michael Pound, the Navy’s Base Realignment and Closure
(BRAC) environmental coordinator for the property “We will work closely with the contractor to remove these structures with minimalimpacttosurroundingcommunities andbusinesses.” The demolition contract requires a minimumof23%ofonsiteworktobeconducted bylocally-ownedbusinesses Landfilltruckinganddisposalcostsareexcludedfromthis requirement. The BRAC Program Management Office andECC,workingundertheoversightofthe U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and state regulatory agencies, will implement dust control measures to maintain compliance with air quality regulations throughout the demolition, transport and material
handling process Local air quality will be monitoreddaily All project work will be performed in compliance with Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) requirements and inaccordancewiththeworkplanapproved bytheregulatoryagencies *** A contract was awarded in February to five contractors for future demolition projects at the former Hunters Point Naval Shipyard Thefivecontractorsinclude:Aptim RadiologicalServicesLLC,ECCExpeditionary Constructors LLC, Ferma Corporation, IntegratedDemolitionandRemediationInc., andRSIAmentumEnvironmentalSolutions LLC The five contractors will compete for
futuredemolitiontaskorders,withthenext task order expected to focus on Parcel B. Contractorsarealsorequiredtodemonstrate theirabilitytohirelocally-ownedbusinesses.
TheDepartmentoftheNavyBRACPMO serves as the primary liaison with local communities and redevelopment authorities; oversees all base closure, realignment, and care taker activities; and develops and implementsplans,priorities,andprocedures forbasedisposalsandtheirassociatedenvironmental cleanups Follow us at https:// www.bracpmo.navy.mil/ Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command is the naval shore facilities, base operating support and expeditionary engineering systems command that delivers life-cycletechnicalandacquisitionsolutions alignedtofleetandMarineCorpspriorities Followusathttps://www.navfac.navy.mil/
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Navy Exchange Service Command opens
expeditionary Micro Market
By Kristine Sturkie NAVY EXCHANGE SERVICE COMMAND
The Navy Exchange Service Command openeditsfirstexpeditionaryMicroMarket attheKeflavikAirBase,homeoftheIcelandic CoastGuard,inKeflavik,Iceland,onMarch 10, 2026 The Micro Market provides grab and go snacks beverages and frozen meal optionsforU.S.militaryandNATOforcesin thearea.
“As a worldwide Navy command, NEXCOM is always in lockstep with the needs of the fleet,” said retired Rear Adm. RobertJ.Bianchi,ChiefExecutiveOfficerof NEXCOM. “In 2023 we were approached andaskedwhatwecoulddotosupportrotational forces flying out Keflavik. Our Micro Marketwastheperfectsolution.Nowthree yearslater,wehavecuttheribbontoofficially openourfirstexpeditionaryMicroMarket.”
Located in a 70-year-old hangar the
By Shelby Thompson
Strategic Systems Programs (SSP) is in a period of historic growth, advancing new strategic deterrence capabilities in support ofAmerica’swarfightingNavy Tomeetthese demandsandenhancethecommand’soverall efficiency, a targeted training initiative titled “SSP Newcomer Onboarding Workshop(NOW)Presents,”isempoweringboth newandseasonedemployeeswiththeknowledgetheyneedtosucceed.
“SSPNOWPresents,”isaseriesofoptional follow-onseminarstothestandardSSPNOW orientationallemployeesattend Itempowers the workforce to dive deeper into topics directlyrelatedtotheirday-to-daywork,gain newskillstoimprovesupporttotheirteam, or simply broaden their horizons and learn somethingnewaboutSSP’sprograms
Since its establishment in 1955, SSP has been the Navy’s premier provider of sea-based strategic deterrence capabilities. For decades the mission centered on the lifecycle support for the sea-based strategic weaponssystem(SWS)deployedonballistic missilesubmarines(SSBN).
In2019,theNavydesignatedSSPtooverseethedevelopmentofafast-pacedmid-tier acquisition non-nuclear hypersonic capabilityknownasConventionalPromptStrike (CPS) BasedonSSP’sprovenhistoryindelivering underwater-launched systems More recently, in 2024, the Navy directed SSP to establishanuclear-armedsealaunchedcruise missile(SLCM-N)programoffice Therapid growth of each program highlighted a need forcontinuous,specializedlearningdesigned to keep the workforce agile and informed aboutdifferentareasofexpertisewithinthe programs
Delaney Burlingame, the program managerforSSPNOW,sawthisasanopportunity for new and seasoned employees within the command. While the initial SSP NOWprogramwasdesignedtoonboardnew employees, Burlingame quickly recognized theneedforfollow-ontraining
“The idea was to have these follow-on sessionsthatpeoplecouldattend,”saidBurlingame “To give them a venue to receive informationthatwecouldn’tfitintothemain SSP NOW training that might be a little bit more niche That way, people could sort of self-select what areas they needed more informationon. Thisconceptprovidesanopportunityfor employeestoaccessadditionalresourcesin support of their specific mission requirements Resourceslikethissupportthevision ofSSP’sDirector,ViceAdm.JohnnyWolfeJr, inmaintainingacommunityoftechnicaland non-technicalexpertsneededtomeetSSP’s no-failmission
KeflavikMicroMarketoffersawidevariety of American classics including coffee, cold beverages, snacks and frozen meals as well as some health & beauty and laundry items TheMicroMarketisself-serviceandisopen 24hoursaday,sevendaysaweek.
NEXCOM opens Micro Markets in Navy facilities where there are large numbers of people butlimitedfoodoptionsavailableor timeisconstrained.Currently,MicroMarkets areopeninNavyhospitals,aircrafthangars, barracks, unaccompanied housing, office spaces,NavyInnsandshipyardsaroundthe world. The first Micro Market opened at the Southeast Regional Maintenance Center in Mayport,Florida,in2015 NEXCOM’sShip’s Store Program has also opened two Micro Market@Sea locations, onboard USS San Antonio(LPD19)andUSSDwightD.Eisenhower (CVN 69). Similar to ashore Micro Markets, these self-service afloat locations
provideSailorswithconvenienceandaccess to food, beverages and health and wellness itemswhiledeployed.
“NEXCOM’s core mission is to enable warfighterreadinessandenhanceNavyqualityoflifeforourmenandwomeninuniform,” saidBianchi.“Wearecommittedtodelivering innovativeconcepts,likethisMicroMarket, toenhancethereadinessofourWarfighters. We look forward to opening more expeditionarylocationstosupportourwarfighters wherevertheyarearoundtheglobe.”
Sailor shops in the new expeditionary Micro Market in Keflavik, Iceland. The Navy Exchange Service Command opened its first expeditionary Micro Market at the Keflavik Air Base, home of the Icelandic Coast Guard, in Keflavik, Iceland, on March 10 2026
“TheideawithSSPNOWisthatpeopleare moreefficientiftheygettheinformationup front[whentheystartatthecommand],”said Burlingame With SSP NOW Presents, the programtakeslearningastepfurther
“As you stay at SSP, your position might changeoryourareaoffocusmightchange,” said Burlingame. “As that happens, there mightbesubjectsthatyouneedmoreinformation on that you maybe hadn’t needed when you first arrived and were drinking fromafirehose That’swherethesesupplemental training opportunities can make a differenceinyourcareer.”
A key challenge in any large organization is avoiding information silos, where teams becomeisolated.SSPNOWPresentsdirectly countersthisbyencouragingcross-functional learningandpreparingemployeesforfuture roles
The program has proven invaluable for employees at all stages of their careers In fact BrianIsaac,theseniorintelligenceofficeratSSP,seesitasanopportunitytoshape
thecommand’sfuture.
“SSPNOWPresentsisafantasticprogram, andtrainingandbriefingthisinformationis probably my favorite activity at SSP,” said Isaac. “I’ve always used the adage of passingonwhatyouhavelearned.Thisprogram provides a lot of information that wasn’t previously available without working on a specificproject.Itbetterhelpsavoidgetting stuck in a silo and it provides both new and seasonedemployeeswithasenseofpurpose andbelonging.IenjoybriefingbecauseIcan show an aspect of our program that many people may not have been exposed to It provides not only information, but a possible career path they may not have known existed.”
This sentiment is shared by others who see the sessions as a way to build connections and gain a broader understanding of thecommand’scomplexmissions
“Going to a shorter, targeted session on a specific topic is a great way to continuously learninmyrole tomeetpeopleacrossthe
command I wouldn’t ordinarily meet, and broadenmyhorizonsabouttopicsIwouldn’t eventhinktoaskabout, saidSydneyHamilton-Dyer, a congressional affairs officer at SSP Furthermore,theprogramstrengthensthe command’scultureofmentorship According toBurlingame,asessionon“Mentorship101,” wasaleadershipprioritytohelpnewemployeesnavigateSSP’suniqueenvironment.
“I got a lot of interest from participants asking me about mentorship,” said Burlingame “SSP is really unique and it can be a little overwhelming. So, when you have a moreseasonedemployeetohelpyou,itreally improvesyourexperience.”
By translating employee feedback into actionablelearningopportunities SSPNOW Presentshasbecomemorethanjustatrainingseries Itisastrategictoolthatempowers individuals,strengthensteams,anddirectly contributes to the efficiency and effectivenessofthecommandanditsmission-critical
The Navy Exchange Service Command opened its first expeditionary Micro Market at the Keflavik Air Base, home of the Icelandic Coast Guard, in Keflavik, Iceland, on March 10, 2026
Cutting the ribbon from left to right: Joy Turner District Vice President Europe District; Jimmy Busquets General Manager NEX Sigonella; Clyde Mc Cune Supervisory Sales Associate, NEX Naples; Marvin Ingólfsson, Deputy Base Commander, Keflavik Air Base, Icelandic Coast Guard; Cdr Marcia Lynn Anthony, Officer in Charge, High North; retired Rear Adm. Robert J. Bianchi, Chief Executive Officer, NEXCOM; and Cdr
NMLPDC hosts AROC
&
Naval Medical Leadership and ProfessionalDevelopmentCommand(NMLPDC) hosteda10-dayAdvancedReadinessOfficer Course (AROC) led by the Leader Develop Directoratefrom5 16January2026consistingof40NavyMedicalCommunityOfficers intheranksofO-4andO-5.
Thiscoursepreparesmidtoseniorgrade Medical Community Officers to assume increased operational and enterprise leadership responsibilities critical to sustaining medical readiness across the Navy Medical Enterprise(NME).
Byequippingofficerswithadeeperunderstanding of operational medicine, resource management, and enterprise level decision making, AROC directly contributes to Navy Medicine’s ability to deliver ready medical forcesinsupportoftheFleetandJointForce.
ThecourseisrunbyCmdr JasonDelinsky, Medical Service Corps, NMLPDC’s DirectorofLeaderDevelopment,whobringswith himadiversebackgroundconsistingofmore
than 20 years of experience in various militarytreatmentfacility,operational,andheadquarters-levelsettings
“AROCisdesignedtoenhancetheofficer’s knowledge,skills,abilities,andconnections with fellow officers from the Navy Medical Community’s diverse Corps to increase confidenceandhis/herpotentialforsuccess inExecutiveMedicineand/orpositionswith greaterscale scope andresponsibilityacross theNME,”saidDelinsky “Thecoursehelps officersunderstandthesignificantinfluence they have in leading personnel to deliver desired outcomes for the mission sets Navy Medicineischargedwithsupporting.
NMLPDC convenes six to eight AROC sessions per fiscal year with each session consisting of approximately 40 officers selected by their respective Corps Career Planners During the two-week course students receive more than 30 individual periodsofinstructiontohelpinform,guide, andchallengeofficersrelatedtothevarious dutiesandresponsibilitiestheyareexpected tounderstandorperforminthefuturewith particularattentiononaspectsofleadership intheoperationalenvironment.
“Theabilitytoengagedirectlywithsenior leaders who are operating within today’s constraints added credibility and relevance that cannot be replicated through virtual or static content,” said a student in the course “Thecoursewasstrengthenedbyfacilitators withsignificantoperationalleadershipexperience,ensuringdiscussionsweregrounded in the realities of leading in complex and constrainedenvironments.”
During the course, student learning is supported through a variety of teaching modalitiesfromlecturestofacilitateddiscussions,tointeractiveroleplaywhichoffersan opportunity to test the waters of executive leadershipinapsychologicallysafeenvironment.
“It is easy to criticize the decisions and judgements of other’ ” said Delinsky “But whenonetakesastepontheotherside they findthatbeingtheleaderordecisionmakeris notalwayseasyandoftenplacestheminchallenging or uncomfortable situations where all the information wanted or needed is not available.”
A key concept covered in the course, however, is helping officers understand
they are rarely alone and, in most cases, do nothavetorelyonlyonpersonalknowledge andexperience
“The most successful leaders leverage the knowledge, skills, and abilities of those around them, said Delinsky “When employed effectively, these attributes help build trust and result in greater team effectiveness.”
As stated in the Surgeon General’s Fiscal Year2026CampaignOrder,LineofEffort4is to“AssembleandretaintalentedNavalMedicalForces”withtheendstatebeinganNME “fullymannedwithqualifiedNavalMedical Forcesatthe100percentlevel.”
Asglobaldemandsevolveandoperational complexityincreases,theneedforagile,strategically minded medical leaders has never beengreater ThroughcoursessuchasAROC, NMLPDC ensures Navy Medicine remains ready to support the Fleet, Fleet Marine Force,andJointForce anytime,anywhere. NMLPDC is the cornerstone of Navy Medicine’sprofessionaltraining,leadership development,andeducationmission;maintainingcollaborativerelationshipswithmore than 300 military and civilian higher learning institutions while annually supporting 3,000 Federal uniformed services, civilian, andalliedforeignmilitarymembers
Naval Postgraduate School provides AI workshop for NAVSUP WSS to boost warfighting edge
By Brian Jones NAVSUP WEAPON SYSTEMS SUPPORT
To accelerate the Department of War’s transformationintoan“AI-first”force,Naval SupplySystemsCommandWeaponSystems Support(NAVSUPWSS)haspartneredwith theNavalPostgraduateSchool(NPS)toarm itsworkforcewithcriticalAIknowledgeand skills
The partnership kicked off with a short course, “What is AI and What Can it do for me?,”heldforemployeesonFeb.24inPhiladelphiaandFeb.25inMechanicsburg.
The workshop directly supports a push fromthehighestlevelsofgovernment.Tishia Miller, the NAVSUP WSS AI Innovation Teamlead,citedExecutiveOrder14179from July2025,whichcallsita“nationalsecurity imperative for the United States to achieve and maintain unquestioned and unchallengedglobaltechnologicaldominance.”
This was reinforced by a Jan. 9, 2026, memo from the Secretary of War directing thedepartmenttobecomean“AI-first’warfightingforceacrossallcomponents.”
According to Miller, the course was designedtodevelopfoundationalAIliteracy andhelpemployeesrecognizetheopportunities,risks,andlimitationsofapplyingAIto militaryoperations
“Ultimately,Ihopethisworkshopgetsthe workforce excited about the capabilities of AI,” Miller said. “We want to ease fears that AI will take people’s jobs and reinforce that AIwillbetheirpartnertodotheirjobsmore efficiently.”
RandyPugh,viceprovostforwarfarestudiesatNPSandleadforitsAITaskforce said thecourseaimstodemystifythetechnology
“The intent is to explain where it came from, how it works the different types of AI,aswellasconsiderationsforoperational securityandresponsibleuse,”Pughsaid The sessionincludedahands-ondemonstration of prompt engineering, giving attendees a practicalfeelforcurrentgenerativeAItools
Pugh emphasized that AI is a tool to augment,notreplace,theworkforce
“AI can provide a lot of assistance in making the people who serve at NAVSUP WSS more efficient and more effective by offloading some of the more time consum-
ing, rote tasks,” he explained. “They should bespendingthemajorityoftheirtimethinkingdeeplyaboutcomplexproblemsandsolvinghardchallengesthatrequiretheirunique talent, not doing tasks that can be offloaded toacomputer.”
A program analyst from NAVSUP WSS, Dmitry Leiderman, attended the day-long course and sees how AI can assist in daily workloadmanagement.
tions during the second half of the course, which helped me to grasp the AI concepts whileapplyingthemintoeverydayfunctions.
“It will help me in my daily activities of compilingreports preparingmeetingagendas while analyzing the current state of the problemsandproposingthefuturestatesteps ofresolvingthem,addedLeiderman.
WhilethisworkshopfocusedonNAVSUP WSS, Pugh noted it is part of a broader mission to create an “AI-fluent workforce acrosstheentireDepartmentoftheNavy “AIisoneexampleofadisruptiveemerging technology that challenges the ways we’ve done things in the past,” Pugh said “The larger challenge for the Department of the
Navy is understanding the capabilities that exist and then adopting and integrating them intelligently, quickly and responsibly tomaintainanadvantage,ensuredeterrence andguaranteesuccessifweevergotowar.”
NAVSUP WSS provides the U.S. Navy, MarineCorps,andalliedforcestheprogram and supply support for the weapon systems that keep naval forces mission ready With locationsinNorfolk,Philadelphia,Mechanicsburg,andTucson,NAVSUPWSSmanages operationalreadinessforalmost300deployableships,92submarines,and3,700aircraft worldwide
Courtesy Story NAVAL MEDICAL LEADER
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COMMAND
On Liberty
Make ready for Military Through the Ages March 21-22
Centuries of military history unfold in one weekend at jamestown settlement with re-enactments, music and special demonstrations of artillery and military equipment
Press Release
WILLIAMSBURG, Va For four decades, military powers across time have descendedonJamestownSettlementtopresent an unequaled and unique chronological display of military history. Make ready to witnesscenturiesofmilitaryhistory allin one weekend at our time-honored MilitaryThroughtheAgeseventonSaturdayand Sunday,March21and22.
More than 500 re-enactors from nearly 40 distinct military units from eight states andCanadawillmusteronmuseumgrounds where At Military Through the Ages, visitorswillbecomeentrenchedinthepastand present day in military encampments and gethands-onwithre-enactorstoexperience howmilitaryuniforms weaponsandtactics evolvedthroughthecenturies
TIMELINE FROM 500 B.C.E.TO THE PRESENT DAY
Visitorscanviewanarratedmilitarypassin-review at 3 p.m. on Sunday, depicting armed forces from 500 B.C.E. all the way to modern-daysoldierswiththeVirginiaArmy National Guard. Little ones can take part in Morsecodechallengeswiththe1stCanadian ParachuteBattalionHQandengagewithan ever-popular bayonet dummy from the 3rd U.S. Regular Infantry Regiment. Spectators canhelptomakeinertmusketcartridgeswith the 42nd Royal Highlanders before joining in period dances with the Piper See sailors performmaintenanceonthejollyboatwith American Forces Hampton Roads War of 1812 and a Nieuport 11 aircraft with the Old DominionAirSquadron.Viewthere-enactment units scheduled to participate in this year’seventatjyfmuseums.org/mta-units
ARTILLERY FIRINGS, MILITARY MUSIC AND CIVILIAN SUTLERS On Saturday and Sunday at 12 noon, comparativeartillery-firingdemonstrations will showcase cold steel, black powder and modern weapons ranging from a 17th-century artillery piece to a 105mm howitzer Throughout two-day event, see special demonstrationsofmilitaryequipmentused in the air, on land and at sea. Attendees can enjoylisteningtolivemusicthroughoutthe weekendeventasLadiesforLibertyand29th Infantry Division Band from the Virginia
ArmyNationalGuardtaketothestage Visitors can purchase wares from Clay Smith Guns, Georgia Colony Smiths, Fort Vause Outfitters K.WaltersattheSignoftheGray Horse, MMM Fab & Forge, Phil the GlassblowerandWhiteHistoricArt.
MILITARY HISTORYATJAMESTOWN
SETTLEMENT
Arms, armor and military equipment of 17th-centuryVirginiacanbeseenyear-round inside Jamestown Settlement’s extensive galleries where permanent exhibits feature
artifacts, films and interactives that tell the story of America’s first permanent English colonyandoftheconvergenceofthePowhatan Indian, English and West Central African cultures in early Virginia. Outdoors, visitors can immerse themselves in life of early Virginia in outdoor re-creations of a 1610-14 English fort, Paspahegh Town and three re-created ships that brought English coloniststoVirginiain1607
MilitaryThroughtheAgesismadepossiblebyagrantfromJamesCityCounty,with support from the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation,Inc.AnnualFund.
HOWTO ATTEND MILITARYTHROUGH THE AGES
JamestownSettlementislocatedonState Route31neartheColonialParkwayinJames CityCounty,justsouthwestofWilliamsburg andadjacenttoHistoricJamestowne AdmissiontoJamestownSettlement,open 9a.m.to5p.m.dailyyear-round,is$20.00for adultsand$10.00forages6-12 Childrenages 5 and under are free A value-priced combinationticketwiththeAmericanRevolution MuseumatYorktownis$34.00foradultsand $17.00forages6-12 Annualmembershipsare availableforfourseasonsofAmericanhistory Parkingisfree Residents of James City County, York CountyandtheCityofWilliamsburg,including William & Mary students, receive free admission to both museums with proof of residency Forinformation,call(757)253-4838orvisit jyfmuseums.org/military-through-the-ages
Press Release
NORFOLK Va Spring is approaching and baseball seasonis,too!BaseballreturnstotheMermaidCitytheweekendofMarch27 29astheNorfolkTidestakeontheNashvilleSounds Fansheadingtogamesthisseasonarereminded toplantheirtravelandparkingarrangementsaheadoftime Availableparkingremainslimitedduetocasinoconstruction,andfansareencouragedtotakeHamptonRoadsTransit’s(HRT)ferryandTheTidelightrailservicesforFREE. HRT,theCityofNorfolkandtheNorfolkTidesareteaming upagainthisseasontoprovideFREEridesonTheTidelight railforeveryhomegame Complimentaryridesareavailable twohoursbeforeandaftereachgame Withfreeparkingatthreepark-and-ridelots,fanscanbe steps away from The Tide light rail without the hassles of driving or paying for parking These park-and-ride lots are attheNewtownRoadStation(NewtownRd andKempsville Rd with267spaces),MilitaryHighwayStation(CurlewDr andCorporateBlvd.with235spaces),andBallentine/Broad CreekStation(BallentineBlvd.andI-264with104spaces) Againthisseason,fanscomingfromthewesternportions
ofHamptonRoadscantaketheElizabethRiverFerryfrom North Landing in Portsmouth for FREE to and from the Harbor Park Landing for every game Ferry service runs every30minutes,beginningonehourbeforegametimeuntil 30 minutes after the game or fireworks end. Free rides are availableonlytotheHarborParkLanding,nottoWaterside Landing Thereareparkingoptionsforthosedrivingtothegames MacArthur South Garage will be FREE for game patrons. Thegarageisjusttwolightrailstops,oraroughly15-minute walk,fromHarborPark Fansparkingatthegaragecancatch The Tide at MacArthur Station for the FREE light rail ride tothestadium. Pre-paid parking is available only at Harbor Park Lot C for$6,servicefeesapply Thereisalso$6gamedayparking atHarborParkLotsFandG.Additionalparkingisavailable attheUnionStreetandEastStreetlotsfor$6onnightsand weekends ParkingatallCitylotswillbecashless DominionTowerGarage,aprivately-ownedparkingfacility just a short 10-minute walk from the stadium, will also offergamedayparkingfor$6 Pre-paidparkingforDominionTowerisalsoavailable
Tohelpfansplantheirgamedaytrips,anonlinemapshows parkingoptionsaswellferryandlightrailroutes. Whenleaving fansusinglightrailareurgedtobepatient andobservelinesthatwillbesetupoutsidethestadium,near themainentrance OnelinewillbeforeastboundTidelight rail traffic in the direction of Newtown Rd with the other for westbound travel toward EVMC/Fort Norfolk Station HRTremindsfanstobesafearoundtracks Usedesignated crosswalksandsidewalkstoreachthestation. ScheduleofTheTidelightrailtimesandstops: https://gohrt.com/routes/light-rail/ ElizabethRiverFerryinformation: https://gohrt.com/routes/ferry/ NorfolkTidesticketinformation: https://gohrt.com/routes/ferry/ Pre-paidparkinginformation: https://eventpass.justpark.com/harbor-park-stadium-park-
From left to right: Legio XIIII Gemina re-enactor (69-70 A.D.) The Company ofJames Fort 1607
in comparative artillery firing demonstrations on Saturday and Sunday during Military Through the Ages
Bayou Bon Vivant: Cajun Music, Food & Arts Festival returns to Downtown Norfolk, May 15-17
Press Release
NORFOLK,Va Justannounced!BorninLakeCharles, three-time Grammy winner Lucinda Williams and her band return to her Louisiana roots, headlining the Bayou BonVivantCajunMusic,Food&ArtsFestivalatTownPoint ParkonSaturday,May16
For more than four decades, Williams has defined the sound of American roots music, blending rock blues, and GulfCoastsoulwithfearless,poeticsongwriting Fromher landmarkalbumCarWheelsonaGravelRoadtoherpowerful new release World’s Gone Wrong, her voice remains as raw and riveting as ever A true Southern original, Lucinda bringsgrit,grace andfiretotheMainStage
Lucinda Williams and her band join Galactic, Anders Osborne, and more for the 2026 Bayou Bon Vivant Cajun Music,Food&ArtsFestival,Friday-Sunday May15-17,2026 atTownPointParkalongtheDowntownNorfolkWaterfront!
The Bayou Bon Vivant is a three-day celebration of the tastes, tunes, and traditions of Louisiana. From juicy handfuls of crawfish to world-renowned musicians, the festival capturesthebestofLouisianaandtransformsitintoaweekend-long party along the Elizabeth River. A wide-ranging andfunexperiencefortheentirefamily,guestscanexplorea vibrantArtsMarketinpartnershipwiththeLouisianaCrafts Guild,showcasingauthenticLouisianaartisans,whileindulginginmouth-wateringCajunclassicssuchasfreshcrawfish, beignets,redbeansandrice,jambalaya,andmuchmore
The 2026 Bayou Bon Vivant is sponsored by the City of Norfolk,VirginiaIsForLovers SouthernAutoGroup WAVY TV10,Modelo,andPepsi.
Easy, approachable solutions for at-home Lenten meals
By Feature Impact
Lent has long been a season of tradition and reflection,anditcanalsobeanopportunitytointroduceyour familytoexcitingnewflavorsthatmaybecomestaples inyourkitchen.
If preparing seafood feels intimidating, try starting with dishes that are easy, familiar and approachable. Forexample One-PotCreamyShrimpScampifeatures a velvety sauce, earthy spinach and buttery, delicious shrimp arecognizableandapproachablerecipethat canbeagatewaytodiscovery
“For many families, Lent often brings a shift at the dinner table and this year parents are turning it into an opportunity to try something new, said Diana Rice,childnutritionistandregistereddietitian “When food feels approachable, it lowers stress for everyone Familiarflavorshelpkidssay‘yes’moreoften,andthose positivemomentscanmakeseafoodafeel-goodpartof familymealsduringLentandbeyond.”
When kids see foods that look and taste familiar like the crunch of crispy fried shrimp they may feel morecomfortablegivingitatry That’swhydiscovery canextendbeyondthedinnertabletosnacktime,too
Give kiddos the energy they need for homework assignmentswithButterflyShimpBruschetta,aquick solutionforafter-schoolorweekendsnacking.Asyour pickierlovedonesdiveinforsomethingnew,thosesmall winscanbuildconfidencetotrynewthings onebite atatime
ThisLent,swap“givingup”for“trythis”withmore approachable frozen seafood solutions and family-friendlyrecipesatSeaPak.com.
Slicebaguettetomatchnumberofshrimp Rubone garlic clove over one side of each slice of bread. Brush garlic-rubbed sides with 3 tablespoons olive oil Set aside
Finelydiceremaininggarlic.
In medium mixing bowl, stir tomatoes, remaining oliveoil,dicedgarlicand⅓cupchoppedbasil.Season withsaltandpepper,totaste,andsetaside
Inlarge,hotskillet,workinginbatches,addbaguette slices oil sides down and cook until browned around edges Removefrompan.
Cooking for a small crowd can be daunting WiththisrecipeforCaramelFrenchToast,youcan prepareitthenightbefore,bakeinthemorningand satisfy your guests without going overboard in the kitchen. FindmorebreakfastandbrunchrecipesatCulinary.net.
Caramel French Toast
6sliceswhitebread,halved
¼cupbutter,cubed
½cupbrownsugar
1tablespooncornsyrup
3eggs
¾cuphalf-and-half
½teaspoonvanillaextract
½teaspooncinnamon
¼teaspoonsalt
powderedsugar(optional)
Cutbreadslicesinhalf
In saucepan, melt butter Add brown sugar and cornsyrup Bringtoboil,stirringfrequently
Pour into 8-inch square baking dish. Arrange breadslicesovercaramelmixture.
In small bowl, whisk eggs, half-and-half, vanilla extract, cinnamon and salt. Pour over bread slices. Coverwithaluminumfoilandrefrigerateovernight. Heatovento350F. Remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before bakingandremovealuminumfoil. Bake 25-35 minutes, or until toothpick inserted intocentercomesoutclean. Sprinklewithpowderedsugar,ifdesired;serve
Easily manage your prescriptions with Express Scripts Pharmacy mobile app
By TRICARE Communications
FALLS CHURCH, Va.—Life is busy,so it’simportantyouhavetheprescriptionsyou need when youneed them. TheTRICARE PharmacyProgram,administeredbyExpress Scripts,makesstayingontopofyourprescription drugseasy.How?Through the free Express ScriptsPharmacy mobile app.The appletsyoulocateTRICAREretailnetwork pharmaciesandsecurelymanageyourmedicationsbyordering prescriptions,tracking orders,requestingandcancelingrefills,and completingothertasks
“The Express Scripts Pharmacy mobile app simplifies and streamlines your pharmacyexperience,” saidLt. Col. Leighcraft Shakes,DeputyChief,PharmacyBenefitIntegrationBranchattheDefenseHealthAgency “Byofferingtheseoptionsatyourfingertips, the app ensures that youcan stay up to date with everything prescription related, from ordering refills,toupdating your delivery address,tosettingdosereminders.”
Want to learn howthe appcan help you? Justfollowtheseeasysteps: DownloadthefreeappfromtheAppleApp StoreorGoogle PlayStore to your mobile device Log in using your Express Scriptsusername and password.(If youdon’t have an account yet, youcan easily register forone Foryoursecurity,theappusestwo-stepverification.)
Theappallowsyoutoseethemedications you’retaking.You can order your prescriptionsandseetheirstatusbeforeyouheadto thepharmacy.Wanttoswitchtogettingyour medications through TRICARE Pharmacy Home Delivery?It’seasythrough the app, and your prescriptions aredelivered right
more about home delivery, including costs andanyapplicableshippingrestrictions,visit TRICAREPharmacyHomeDelivery(online athttps://www.tricare.mil/homedelivery).
APPROVE REFILLORDERS
To review andapprove your refills whether at your local pharmacyorthrough TRICAREPharmacyHomeDelivery—login toyouraccount.Then,select“Prescriptions”
to view your prescription listand manage yourrefills
TRACKORDER STATUS
Wanttoknowwhenyourprescriptionwill beready?Themobileappmakesiteasy: See when your medication is ready for pickupatyourpharmacy. Tracktheorder,processing,andshipping status of your TRICARE Pharmacy Home Deliveryprescriptions—allinrealtime Tocheckyourorderstatusonline: Logintoyouraccount. Go to “Prescriptions,” then select “Order History.” Lookunder“RecentOrderStatus”totrack yourorder
SETUPDOSEREMINDERS
It canbehardtoremember to takeyour medicationsontime.Theappcanhelp: Logintoyouraccount. Tap“More”atthebottomofthescreen Select“DoseReminders”toaddormanage remindersforyourmedications
MANAGE YOUR DELIVERYADDRESS
Need to update your delivery address because you’re being deployed, moving,or going on vacation? Theapp makes it simple tochangeyourdeliveryaddressatanytime
MAKE PAYMENTS
TheExpressScriptsPharmacymobileapp makespayingfor prescriptions simple.You canpayonlineorsetupautomaticpayments forhomedeliveryorders Activeduty servicemembers pay$0for up to a90-daysupplyofmedicationwhen they useamilitarypharmacy,TRICARE Pharmacy Home Delivery,oraTRICARE retail network pharmacy.For moredetails seetheTRICARECostsandFeesFactSheet (online at https://tricare.mil/Publications/ Costs/costs_fees). Have questions about your pharmacy
benefitorprescriptioncosts?Checkoutthe TRICAREPharmacyProgramOverviewFact Sheet (online at https://www.tricare.mil/ Publications/Fact-Sheets/pharmacy_overview) and TRICARE Costsand Fees Sheet formoreinformation.
TheExpressScriptsPharmacymobileapp works with your busy scheduletomanage andtrackyourprescriptions.VisittheApple AppStoreorGooglePlayStoretodownload itforfree
Apharmacynote forTRICARE Prime Remote beneficiaries:AsofFeb.28, TPR beneficiaries in theU.S.nolonger paya copaymentwhenfillingTRICARE-covered prescriptions.The waiver applies to both TRICARE retail networkpharmacies and TRICAREPharmacyHomeDelivery. TPR beneficiaries don’t need to takeany action for thewaiver to takeeffect. When youfill a TRICARE-covereddrugataretail network pharmacy or through home delivery,your copayment will automatically be $0.Toget non-formularydrugsatnocost,yourprovider mustestablish medical necessity.Rules for fillingprescriptionsforcertainmaintenance drugsstillapply
WouldyoulikethelatestTRICAREnewssent toyoubyemail?VisitTRICARESubscriptions to get benefit updates,news, andmore.
Teledentistry underthe TRICARE DentalProgram
By TRICARE Dental Program
FALLS CHURCH, Va.—Inour increasinglydigitalworld, healthcareisevolving, andyourdentalcareisnoexception.Teledentistryoffersaconvenientandaccessibleway to receivedentalcarefromthe comfort of yourownhome.Butwhatexactlyisteledentistry,and what does it mean for youasa TRICARE Dental Program enrollee? Let’s demystify teledentistry and clarify what’s coveredundertheTDP
WHAT IS TELEDENTISTRY?
Teledentistryisdentalcareprovidedvirtually.Instead of atraditional in-personvisit, youmightconnectwithyourdentistthrough videocalls,securemessaging,orbysending images and informationabout your dental concerns
Togetthemostoutofateledentistryvisit, adentistwill provide directions on how youcan assistthe exam by positioning the cameraorusing amirror to help see inside yourmouth.
