The Flagship 04.30.2026

Golden Dome for America hosts Homeland defense event at JointExpeditionary Base LittleCreek–Fort Story

U.S. Navy Story By ChiefMass Communication SpecialistScott Wichmann

NORFOLK,Va.

—The Office of Golden Dome for America(GDA) hosted aDepartment of Warengagement eventtohighlight ongoing efforts supporting Homeland defense at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek—FortStory,April23

GeneralMikeGuetlein,DirectorofGolden Dome for America,outlinedthe mission andstrategicimportanceofGDA,discussed keyaccomplishments to date and provided perspectives on the futureofthiscritical, generationalinitiative

“Towin tomorrow’sfightwecannotbuy

By Lt.j.g.Ali Stewart

moreoftoday’shardware.Weneedafundamentalleapforward.,”saidGuetlein.“Thatis whyweareforgingGoldenDomeforAmerica. It is alayered, flexible shield designed to restoreour strategic advantage.Weare movingfromhumanspeedtomachinespeed Thisisnotsciencefiction.Itisanachievable all-Americaneffort.”

Billed as “a next-generation defensive shieldfor America,”the Golden Dome’s intended purpose is to deter attacks and defendtheAmericanpeopleagainstthefull spectrumofmodelmissilethreats

EmilMichael,UnderSecretaryofWarfor ResearchandEngineering(USW(R&E))and ChiefTechnologyOfficerfortheDepartment ofWar,highlightedthesteady,ongoingwork

underwaytobringtheGoldenDomeonline.

“Weare creating the shield that will protect our people,” said Michael. “Weare superchargingtheentiredefenseecosystem tosupportthismission.Weareputtingnew criticaltechnologyareaintoaction. We will worktirelesslytobuildthebestdefenseenvironmentpossible.”

Thoseinattendancehad theopportunitytoobserveelementsofcurrent missile defenseeffortssupportingHomelanddefense andgainadeeperunderstandingofthetechnologies,partnerships,andoperationalactivitiesthatunderpintheGDAmission.

“Wearecollaboratingatthetacticaledge, wheretherubbermeetstheroad.”saidMaj. Gen.MarkPiper,DeputyDirectorofOpera-

tionsforNorthAmericanAerospaceDefense Command(NORAD),“Wehaveexperienced warfighterssittingsidebysidewithourengineersandpartnersdevelopingGoldenDome, blending thetalents of ourmostgifted tech sectordevelopers with thecombat-forged experience of ourmostexperienced operators.Thefutureisbeingforgednow.Wewill deliver next generation missile defense. We willdeliverGoldenDomeforAmerica.”

The event also wasanopportunity for operationalinstallations in the Hampton Roadsareatoshowcasecurrentcapabilities and contributions to the broadernational defenseeffort.

Planned Incremental Availabilityperiod

USSDWIGHT D. EISENHOWER (CVN 69)

PORTSMOUTH, Va. —The Nimitzclass aircraft carrier USSDwight D. Eisenhower(CVN69)(IKE)completedSeaTrials, April 24,the ship’sfirststep after departing NorfolkNavalShipyard(NNSY)followingthe successfulcompletionofa15-monthPlanned IncrementalAvailability(PIA)period.

Sea Trials marks asignificant milestone in the carrier’s return to operational status, allowing the crew to test ship systems,validate repairs,and demonstrate readinessat sea.

“I am reallyproud of the crew after completing such amomentous underway— they trained hardand executed with precision and excellence,” said Capt.Shane T. Marchesi,commandingofficer,USSDwight D.Eisenhower.

The return to sea represents the culmination of more thana year of planning and execution between the crewand shipyard workers,whosuccessfullydeliveredtheship fromtheshipyardaheadofschedule “Thishasbeenademandingbutrewarding

Honoring ourYoungestHeroes:AnnualYouth Parade Highlights the Resilience of Military Children

By Max Lonzanida NAVALWEAPONS STATIONYORKTOWN

Vibrantbanners,applausesfromparents lining the street, and aspirit of celebration echoed loudly and cheerfully on VonSteuben DrivelastThursday, April9th onboard NavalWeaponsStationYorktown as part of the annual Youth Parade.The eventwas hosted by the installation’sFleet &Family Support Center,and sawa recordnumber of military-affiliated youthsfromthe Child Development Center and Youth Center parade down thestreet in aheartwarming displayofcommunity and pride.The parade, an annual tradition, coincides with thelargerthemeoftheMonthoftheMilitary Child; whichhonors thechildren of service membersaffiliatedwiththeinstallationand echoedwithsimilareventsacrossthenation. Eachyear,TheDepartmentofWardesignatesAprilastheMonthoftheMilitaryChild. Themonthlongobservancewasestablished in1986bythenSecretaryofDefenseCaspar Weinberger who served under President Ronald Reagan. It’s atime to recognize the morethan1.6millionmilitaryaffiliatedchildren who faceunique challenges and experiences due to their parents’ service in the military. While military membersserve around the globe and amid locations with heightened tensions; the challenges faced by theirchildrenare oftenoverlooked.On average,military families move every two to three years; which means military chil-

drenfrequentlychangeschoolsandsupport networks

Thisyear’sparadewasavibrantandenergetic affair,with militaryaffiliated children parading alongside decorated banners, signsandwearingpurplet-shirts.Theevent wascoordinated by the installation’sFleet

Dahlgren FireDepartments presents certificates of lifesaving, promotescrewmembers

By AndrewRevelos NAVALSUPPORTACTIVITY

SOUTH POTOMAC

NavalDistrictWashington(NDW) Fire andEmergencyServicesDahlgrenCompany gatheredApril 21 to honorthe lifesaving efforts of twoits membersduring acallfor mutualaid from King GeorgeCounty in 2025; theyalso promoted twooftheirown tonewpositionsofleadershipinaceremony attendedbyfriendsandfamily Firefighter/EMTMontez Butler and Firefighter/Paramedic Zachary Albiston provided pre-hospital careto apatient in cardiac arrestfollowing acar accident Every year,Navyfirefighters assignedto NavalSupport Facility(NSF) Dahlgren and NSFIndianHeadrespondtomorethan1,000 mutual aid requests per year on averagein thecommunitiesaroundtheinstallations.In returnthefirstrespondersofthosecommunitiesprovideassistanceonbase,whenneeded. “We’reherethismorningtodotwoofmy favorite things,” saidNDW Regional Fire Chief Kevin Grinder.“We’rerecognizing people’saccomplishment through promotion,andtopresentsomeemployeeswithlife

saving awards.I want to welcome friends, familyandfiredepartmentguestswhohave joinedus.It’simportanttohaveoursupportershere.

Following the presentationoflifesaving certificates,MichaelGordonwaspromoted from captain to therank of battalionchief He wasformally pinnedtohis newrankby hiswifeandsons Firefighter/ParamedicChristianMerchant wasalsopromotedtotherankofparamedic. Promotion, said Grinder,isatime-honoredtraditioninthefireservice.“Itshowsthe personwassuccessfulintheirpreviouspositionanddemonstratedtheleadershipneeded totakeonanewtask,”hesaid.“Itshowsthey aremotivatedtocompletetherequiredtraining. It shows the commitment they have to thedepartment,andtothecivilianandactive dutycommunitythatweserve.”

NavalSupportActivity South Potomac (NSASP)District FireChief Matt Gilroy congratulated those who were recognized orpromoted,andchallengedthecrewtokeep advancingtheirfirefighting and leadership skills.“We transition up,” he said.“It’s up to youguys to keep moving,tokeep pushing forward

and Family Service Center, andsupported by theinstallation’s Public WorksDepartment,SecurityDepartment,Fire& Emergency Servicesalong with members of the York-Poquoson Sheriff’s Office.The event wasa powerful reminder that our military familiesarethebedrockofournation’snaval

power.Thiscommitmenttoourwarfighters beginsathomebyensuringthattheirfamilies andchildrenaresupported.Eventslikethis buildtheresilienceofourentirecommunity; andcontributetotheoverallreadinessofthe fleet.Astrong,resilienceandreadyNavyand MarineCorpsfamilyensuresastrong,resilienceandreadywarfighter

Additional celebrations areslatedtotake placeacross the region; includingflag raisings,servicemembervisits,leadershipvisits to area schools, artwork displaysatpublic venues,proclamationsignings and others all with the same theme; “A Tribute to our Youngest Heroes.” This year’s parade at the installation wasonfull displaylastweek with the entirecontingent of military affiliatedyouthsattheinstallation’sChildDevelopment Center and YouthCenter parading down VonSteuben Drivewith decorated shirts,handmadebannersandlotsofpurple to expresstheir pride and military heritage Cheeringontheyouthswerevariousservice membersfromtenantcommandsacrossthe installation, civilian employees,and others cheering,shakinghandsandgivingmultiple highfives.Theeventnotonlyprovidedafun and engaging opportunity forthe children; italsohighlightedtherolestheyplaceinthe community.Italsoshowedtheresilienceand adaptabilityofmilitarychildren;whichecho with theserviceoftheir parents translating intoaready,resilientandhighlycapablefightingforcethatisabletoprevailinanydomain wheretheyareneeded.

Abattalion chiefhelmetsitsonthe awards table at theNaval SupportFacility(NSF)

Dahlgren Fire Station during an April 21 recognition and promotion ceremonyfor members of NavalDistrictWashington(NDW) Fireand Emergency Services Dahlgren Company. (PHOTO BYANDREWREVELOS)

Capt. John Nadder, commanding officer of NSASP, commended Butler and Albiston fortheirlifesavingactions,andcongratulated Merchant andGordon.Healsoexpressed gratitudetothe entiredepartment for the critical service theyperform for NSASP installationsandthecommunity

“Thiswas well-deserved,” he said. “It’s important to take the time to recognize all thegoodworkyoudo.Everythingyoudoon theinstallationandofftheinstallation—we relyonyou.Thankyouverymuchforeverythingyoudoandforthesacrificesyoumake dayinanddayout.”

CNATT Unit Oceana welcomes new leadership

OCEANA,

NAVAL AIR

Commander Rich S. Duchnowski relieved Cmdr Alexa Striba during a change of command ceremony for Center for Naval AviationTechnicalTrainingUnit(CNATTU) OceanaApril17

Captain Michael A. Polito CNATT commander,presidedovertheeventandwas theguestspeaker

During her remarks, Striba thanked the CNATTU Oceana staff for their support duringherthree-yeartour

“CNATTUOceanahasbeenthehighlight of my career I got to work with a diverse teamofstaff,Sailors,Marines,andcivilians,” Stribasaid.“Iknowwearethebestofthebest because of my staff’s dedication, expertise andleadership Seeingstudentsgrowinskill and confidence while directly contributing tofleetreadinesswasincrediblyrewarding.”

Sheadded;“Ithasbeenanhonortoserve alongsideyouhereatCNATTUOceana.I’ve seen your skill, your dedication, and your heart and sometimes, your ability to handle thingsIneverthoughtpossible Remember, thestrengthofthisteamisn’tinoneperson, it’s in all of you, working together, supportingeachother,andholdingeachothertothe higheststandard.Youdon’tjusttrainSailors and Marines here; you shape leaders set the bar, and you hold the future! As I pass the watch, keep that spirit alive. Stay sharp, stay proud, and keep striving for excellence becausethat’swhatmakesthiscrewextraordinary Iamproudofeveryoneofyou,andI willcarrythelessons,laughter,andmemories from this team with me always. Thank you for making this mission and this place truly unforgettable.”

Striba will retire after serving over three decadesofNavalservice

Her last remarks to her successor, Duch-

nowski,were,“Icouldn’taskforabetterexecutiveofficer Keepprovingeverydaywhyyou weremadetocommand Keeplistening keep deciding, and trust your crew You’ve got skills,nowtrustyourself.”

Duchnowski,aNewJerseynative,served as CNATTU Oceana’s XO for the past 16 months HeenlistedintheU.S.Navyin1995 andstartedhisnavalcareeratRecruitTrainingCommandGreatLakes,Illinois,followed byAviationElectronicsTechnicianA-school at Pensacola, Florida. Duchnowski was selected as “Sailor of the Year” in 2006 and awardedtherankofchiefpettyofficer.Later in2009,hewouldbecommissionedthrough theLimitedDutyOfficerprogram.

Heelaboratedonhisexcitementinbecomingtheunit’scommandingofficer

“I’m truly honored and humbled to have thisopportunitytoleadatthislevelandI’m readytogettowork!”Duchnowskisaid.“I’m mostexcitedaboutmakingadifferenceand workingalongsidegreatSailors,Marines,and civilians building this command into what otherswillemulateandlooktoforguidance andresults.”

DuchnowskisharedafinalthoughtregardingStribaandherleadership

“Thank you for your leadership your exampleandforleavingthiscommandstronger and ready for what lies ahead,” Duchnowski said. “You have set a standard that I am committed to upholding and building upon!”

CNATTU Oceana staff also welcomed Cmdr Douglas Kesterson, who reported as theunit’snewexecutiveofficer

CNATTUOceanaisatrainingunitwithin the Center for Naval Aviation Technical Trainingdomain,locatedatNavalAirStation Oceana,Virginia Itsmissionistosupportthe DepartmentofWarbyprovidingspecialized technical training to aviation maintenance professionals for F/A-18 Hornets, and automated test equipment in direct support of genuineandemergingfleetrequirements

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Billet based advancement gives Sailors more control of their careers

By Petty Officer 2nd Class Kendra Helmbrecht CHIEF OF NAVAL PERSONNEL

ARLINGTON, Va The Navy is giving Sailors more control, flexibility and opportunityinhowtheyadvance Insteadofwaiting on quotas, advancement is now something Sailorscanactivelypursueattheirownpace multiple times a year By linking promotion toavailablejobsacrossthefleet,BilletBased Advancement (BBA) and Senior Enlisted Marketplace(SEM)createclearerpathways topromotefaster,stepintomeaningfulroles, and take ownership of their careers in ways notpreviouslypossible allwhilehelpingthe Navy decrease gapped billets and increase operationalreadiness

BBAandSEMaresystemsthatwerefirst introducedin2022,linkingadvancementto billetsusingCommandAdvancetoPosition (CA2P)andAdvancetoPosition(A2P).The system serves two purposes: expedites the process of promoting Sailors to positions in their next rank in billets that match their qualificationsandexperience,whichinturn, balances misalignment within commands, ensuring increased operational readiness During a visit to Norfolk-area naval bases, Capt. Charles R. Harmon, Enlisted Force Plans and Policy branch head, emphasized thestridesthefleetismakingasBBAcontinuestorollout.

“Wehavecarrierswhereeverydepartment hasamasterchiefforthefirsttimeever,even though they were always billeted for one,” saidHarmon.“Thatmeanswenolongerhave commandsforcinglowerrankstodohigher

rankingjobsorservemultiplebillets,orSailors doing jobs below their ranks, expertise, andeducationwhilecausingoperationalgaps inotherplaces.” Previously, enlisted Sailors advanced through a system based on rate-specific quotas constructed from the losses of the Navy PromotionwasdeterminedbyacombinationofthisquotaandaSailor’sfinalmultiple, a score calculated using evaluations, awards time in rate and the legacy Navy WideAdvancementExam(NWAE)results Simplyput,thequotadeterminedthebarfor promotion and a Sailor’s final multiple was their place above or below that bar After advancementSailorsassumedthenextrank andremainedattheircurrentcommandand maintainedthesameprojectedrotationdate

WiththeimplementationofBBA,Sailors nowtakeaRatingKnowledgeExam(RKE). UnlikethelegacyNWAE,passingRKEresults arevalidforuptotwoyears ThisenablesSailorstoapplyforbilletsmultipletimesthrough twopathways:CA2P whereunitscanretain a newly eligible Sailor by placing them in a billetfortheirnewrank,orA2P,whereSailorsapplytoavailablebilletsattheirnewrank and, promote upon executing their orders With A2P eligible Sailors can apply for up to 10 billets per cycle at the next paygrade, competingforpositionsthatalignwiththeir skills qualifications, and experience along withtheneedsoftheNavy

At the deckplate level, BBA and SEM are shifting advancement from a one-size-fitsallsystemtoonebuiltaroundtheindividual Sailor—recognizing readiness experience and initiative in real time. Quarter Master

First Class Mari Collins, a Sailor stationed at Joint Base Pearl Harbor Hickam, was rewardedthroughthisSailorFirstapproach because she was prepared to take the next stepandwasplacedinapositionwhereshe canmakeanimmediateimpact.

“Being out here in Hawaii, you see firsthand how critical manning is,” said Collins “Billet-basedadvancementgavemeachance to step into a role the command actually needed filled not just wait on quotas I advanced because I was ready and the job wasthere.”

BBAandSEMarecurrentlyimplemented forallratesE-6toE-9with14ratesfullyintegrated starting at E-5. The Navy continues plans to implement BBA for all ratings and paygrades,improvingreadinessandreducing gappedbilletsacrossthefleet ForsomeSailors,theshiftrepresentsasignificantchange fromthewayadvancementhastraditionally worked—andwithanychange,therecanbe hesitation. Moving away from the familiar, quota-basedsystemtoacompetitivemarketplacecanfeeluncertainatfirst.ButasSailors like Machinist’s Mate Second Class Alison Aston, a Sailor attached to Pearl Harbor NavalShipyard,engagewiththeprocess,they discoverthedirectrelationshipbetweentheir promotion,neworders,andcontributionto themission.Duringthisengagementwemet Sailorswhohaddoubtandskepticismturned to motivation and a deeper understanding afterexperiencingBBAfirsthand.

“At first, I didn’t fully trust the process, butonceIappliedthroughMyNavyAssignmentandgotselected,itclicked,”saidAston. “Iwasn’tjustcompetingonatestanymore—I

wascompetingforresponsibility Thatmade itfeelmorereal.”

Harmonfurtheremphasizedthatthefocus has shifted to deliberately placing the most qualified Sailors into billets where they can truly perform and make an impact rather thansimplyrotatingpersonneltofillgaps “There is always going to be constant changeinordertodowhatwearedoing,”said Harmon “OurSailorsaremakingadifference becausewekeepourselvesmovingforward andarealwaystryingtogetaheadmakingour organizationasawhole,better.”

Insteadofwaitingforthesystemtocatch up,Sailorscannowpursueopportunitiesthat align with their capabilities and experience whiledirectlycontributingtomissionneeds. ThismodernapproachrewardsSailorswho arededicatedtobeingproficientintheirfield and ensures they are positioned to make an immediateimpact.

FormoreinformationandFAQsonBillet Based Advancement and Senior Enlisted Marketplace please visit: [https://www. mynavyhr.navy.mil/Career-Management/ Detailing/Enlisted/Billet-Based-Advancement/](https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/ Career-Management/Detailing/Enlisted/ Billet-Based-Advancement/).MyNavyHRis theU.S.Navy’sone-stopshopforSailorcareer management, personnel policy, pay, education, advancement and talent management information.Throughmodernizedpersonnel systems,Sailor-centeredpolicydevelopment andFleet-alignedtalentstrategies,MyNavy HRsupportsaready,resilientforcewiththe rightpeople withtherightskills attheright timeandplace

NAVFAC Atlantic awards contract supporting shore infrastructure planning and design

By Michael Morris NAVAL FACILITIES ENGINEERING SYSTEMS

Naval Facilities Engineering Systems CommandAtlantichasawardedBakerJacobs JV ofPittsburgh,a$95,000,000firm-fixedprice,indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contractformulti-disciplinearchitect-engineer services supporting general type facilitiesatNavyandMarineCorpsinstallations within the command’s area of operations worldwide

The contract, N62470-26-D-0006, will provideabroadrangeofarchitect-engineer services in support of planning, design and constructionrequirementsacrosstheNaval Facilities Engineering Systems Command Atlantic area of operations, with work also

authorized worldwide as needed. The contract consists of a base year and four one-year option periods, with an expected completiondateofApril2031.Themaximum dollarvalueforthebaseperiodandalloption yearsis$95,000,000

Work under the contract includes but is notlimitedto,DepartmentofDefenseForm 1391 documentation, design-build requests forproposals design-bid-buildconstruction documents, cost engineering services, field investigations,surveyingandmapping,testing and evaluations, consultations, training, program management, conceptual design, geotechnical subsurface exploration and studies, hazardous materials identification, energy calculations, life safety code studies, interior space planning and design, value engineering, shop drawing review, opera-

tion and maintenance support information, commissioning construction inspection, post-constructionawardservices,andcriteriadevelopmentandupdatesforgeneraltype facilitiesandrelatedrequirements Fiscal2026operationsandmaintenance, Navy funds in the amount of $10,000 were obligated at the time of award to satisfy the contract’sminimumguarantee Thosefunds willexpireattheendofthecurrentfiscalyear Thecontractwascompetitivelyprocured throughtheSystemforAwardManagement website,SAM.gov,withsixqualificationpackagesreceived BakerJacobsJVwasselected inaccordancewith40U.S.CodeChapter11, SelectionofArchitectsandEngineers,based on demonstrated competence and professional qualifications Evaluation factors included specialized experience, profes-

sional qualifications, past performance, quality control, program management and capacity,commitmenttosmallbusiness,and volumeofwork.

This contract supports the technical planning and design capabilities required to develop modernize and sustain resilient shore infrastructure that enables Navy and MarineCorpsreadinessworldwide

Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command is the Navy’s shore infrastructureandexpeditionaryengineeringsystems command,deliveringlife-cycletechnicaland acquisition solutions in planning, design, construction,sustainmentandenvironmentalsupportalignedtoFleetandMarineCorps prioritieswhilealsosupportingothermilitary departmentsandfederalagenciesworldwide.

U.S. Navy boosts support for Military families with major childcare expansion

By Coleen San Nicolas-Perez COMMANDER, NAVY INSTALLATIONS COMMAND

WASHINGTON DC The U.S. Navy is expanding its Child and Youth Programs (CYP) with more than 900 new childcare spacesslatedtoopenatkeyfleetconcentrationareasthrough2028.

This initiative, part of a broader readiness strategy for Sailors and their families includesconstructionofnewfacilities,innovative facility conversions, and long-term capitalinvestmentsinmoderninfrastructure.

“Supporting our Sailors means supportingtheirfamilies,”saidViceAdm.ScottGray commanderofNavyInstallationsCommand.

“Access to high-quality, reliable childcare reflects our commitment to our people and increasesfleetreadiness Thisyear’sexpansion makes significant progress toward that

commitment,anditisonlythebeginning.”

Four major construction projects (MILCONs) are currently ongoing one atNavalBasePointLoma,twoatNavalBase Kitsap,andoneatJointExpeditionaryBase LittleCreek-FortStory Theseprojectsrepresent the next phase of the Navy’s long-term strategy to modernize and expand its childcareinfrastructure.

In addition to construction of new facilities theNavyisusinginnovativeapproaches toacceleratetheavailabilityofcare AtNaval BaseKitsap,aformerchapelandcommunity center were converted into modern Child Development Center (CDC) spaces, adding approximately154moreslotsforchildren.

The Navy is committed to enhancing the quality of its CYP programs By the end of FY26, the Early Learning Matters (ELM) curriculumwillbefullyimplementedacross all Navy CDCs worldwide The world-class

ELM curriculum is grounded in the latest research on child development and brain science promotingschoolreadinessthrough aplay-based,inquiry-drivenapproach.

“TheELMcurriculumisagame-changer for everyone in our centers,” said Maryann Coutino,directoroftheNavyChildandYouth Programs “Forchildren,itprovidesapredictable,engaging,andrichlearningenvironment that builds critical thinking skills and eases the stress of PCS moves. For our Child and YouthProgramprofessionals,itisanempowering tool that offers a clear framework for intentional teaching, fostering their professional skills and allowing them to focus on what they do best creating meaningful interactionsthathelpouryoungestlearners thrive.”

Tofurthersupportfamilies,theNavyisalso expanding community-based care options The Military Child Care in Your Neighbor-

hood (MCCYN) program is adding 1,000 fee-assistance spaces in FY26 to give families more high-quality choices in their local communities The MCCYN program is a Department of War initiative that provides fee assistance to eligible military families, helping offset the cost of community-based childcare when installation care is unavailable Commander,NavyInstallationsCommand isresponsibleforworldwideU.S.NavyShore installation management, designing and developingintegratedsolutionsforsustainmentanddevelopmentofNavyshoreinfrastructure as well as quality of life programs CNIC oversees 10 Navy regions 70 installations,andmorethan48,600employeeswho are focused on warfighting and manning, training and equipping the Shore to fight and win. Navy installations are warfighting platformsessentialtoeveryfleetoperation.

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Commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic (CNRMA) is the regional coordi-

natorforallshore-basednavalpersonnel and shore activities in the Mid-Atlantic region, which encompasses 20 states, 13 installations,andnumerousNavyReserve CentersfromMainetoVirginiaandasfar westasIllinois

The Hon. Emil Michael, Under Secretary of War for Research and Engineering (USW(R&E)) and Chief Technology Officer for the Department of War speaks with members of the media during the Golden Dome for America event at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story Virginia, April 23. Golden Dome for America is a next-generation, layered defense capability being rapidly developed to protect and shield the Homeland against advanced ballistic, hypersonic, and cruise missile threats (U.S.NAVYPHOTO BYMASS COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST1STCLASS JOSHUAD.SHEPPARD)

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period for the IKE crew,” said Rear Adm. DustyRhodes,commander,CarrierStrike Group TWO (CSG 2) “The dedication shown by our Sailors has set the foundationforastrongreturntothefleet;areturn that I am confident will demonstrate the lethalityandtruecombatpowerofAmerica’sNavy.”

IKEcompletedseveralkeymaintenance milestonesatNNSY,followingthehistoric 2023-2024 deployment to the Red Sea in supportofOperationProsperityGuardian.

“OurSailorsdemonstratedunmatched grit and technical expertise throughout thisavailability,”saidMarchesi.“Completing a maintenance period of this scale required relentless focus and teamwork withourpartners fromtheNNSYshipyardcommander RearAdm.Hakimzadeh andhisteam,toincludehisprojectsuperintendent, Cmdr Jason Downs, to Rear

Adm.Rhodesandhisstrikegroupstaff,to our type commander and staff, as well as privatesectormaintenanceorganizations we could not have done it without any ofthesecriticalpartnerships.”

The extensive maintenance period included critical upgrades and repairs to the ship’s combat systems, propulsion plant, and habitability spaces, ensuring IKE’s ability to be fully mission capable and ready to support global maritime operations

IKE’s PIA completion represents NNSY’ssecondconsecutivetimelycarrier delivery back to the fleet. Commissioned in1977,USSDwightD.Eisenhoweristhe second Nimitz-class aircraft carrier and is homeported in Norfolk, Virginia. The ship provides a combat ready, forward deployed naval force capable of supportingU.S.nationalsecurityobjectivesaround theglobe For more information, contact USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Public Affairs at pao@cvn69.navy.mil.

Navy Shore Enterprise announces 2025 Sailor of the Year

By Coleen San Nicolas-Perez COMMANDER NAVY

INSTALLATIONS COMMAND

WASHINGTON D.C. Spanning 70 installations worldwide, the Navy’s Shore Enterprise serves as the critical launchpad forglobalfleetoperations,andtoday,itrecognizeditspremierenlistedleader Commander NavyInstallationsCommand (CNIC)announcedNavyCounselor1stClass Frederick L. Salazar, representing Naval DistrictWashingtonasthe2025ShoreEnterprise Sailor of the Year Emerging from a fiercely competitive field of elite performers,Salazarpresentstheabsolutepinnacleof dedication,operationalreadiness,andleadershipacrosstheNavy’sfoundationalforce.

“The Shore Enterprise is the warfighting platform from which the fleet projects power,” said Vice Adm. Scott Gray, commanderofNavyInstallationsCommand.

“The leaders we recognize today are the engine of that platform. They ensure our forcesareready,ourfamiliesaresupported, andourinstallationsareresilient NC1Salazar’s dedication exemplifies the excellence requiredtomaintainourstrategicedge.”

Salazar was lauded for his work as the regional career counselor, overseeing the career development of over 1,000 Sailors across seven commands and establishing a first-of-its-kind testing center at Naval Air Station Patuxent River to provide critical educational opportunities for service members As the 2025 Sailor of the Year, he will be meritoriously promoted to the rank ofchiefpettyofficer

“There are many people who helped me get here. My wife, daughter, and son have been my support since day one,” Salazar said “Butthisrecognitionalsobelongstomy mentors and the junior Sailors who pushed metobebettereverysingleday.Nowthereal work starts This is where I move forward, take the lessons I’ve learned and pay it forward to develop the next generation of Navyleaders.”

Theprestigiousawardistheculminationof arigorous,enterprise-wideselectionprocess that identifies the top performer from four exceptionalregionalfinalists,eachofwhom demonstrated extraordinary impact within theirrespectiveareasofresponsibility

The highly competitive field of finalists included: Air Traffic Controller 1st Class

Frank Lorenzo Ayala: Representing Navy RegionSoutheast,Ayalawasrecognizedfor hiscriticalroleasafacilitywatchsupervisor atNavalStationMayport,whereheoversaw more than 24,800 safe flight operations He also served as an instrumental coordinator forthe2025MayportAirShow,hostingover 300,000attendees Master-at-Arms1stClass EmmaL.Murray:RepresentingNavyRegion Europe Africa,Central,Murrayservedasthe sole Military Working Dog (MWD) kennel master for the U.S. Africa Command area of responsibility Sheexpertlydirected20MWD teams,ensuringtheflawlessexecutionofover 7,000 hours of explosive detection to safeguard more than 5,300 personnel and criticalinfrastructure. Master-at-Arms1stClass Anthony W. D. Revak: Representing Navy RegionJapan,Revakdistinguishedhimselfas thephysicalsecurityofficerforCommander, Fleet Activities Okinawa. Revak was vital in overhauling the command’s physical securityprogramtoachievea95percentcompliancescoreonamajorassessment,whilealso revampingthecommand’sfitnessprogramto dramaticallyimproveSailorreadiness CNICForceMasterChiefFORCMAndre Brownpraisedthecharacterandcompetence

of the finalists He noted that reaching this level demonstrates uncompromising standards and a deep dedication to mentorship, calling the finalists the leaders who will activelyshapethefutureoftheNavy “Beingrecognizedatthislevelmeansthese Sailorsstandard-bearerfortheentireenlisted force,”saidBrown.“Everyoneofthesefinalists embodies our core values through their unrelenting dedication to the mission and, moreimportantly,tothedevelopmentoftheir Sailors They are exactly the kind of leaders weneedshapingthefutureofourNavy.” Commander,NavyInstallationsCommand isresponsibleforworldwideU.S.NavyShore installation management, designing and developingintegratedsolutionsforsustainmentanddevelopmentofNavyshoreinfrastructure as well as quality of life programs CNIC oversees 10 Navy regions, 70 installations,andmorethan48,600employeeswho are focused on warfighting and manning, training and equipping the Shore to fight and win. Navy installations are warfighting platformsessentialtoeveryfleetoperation.

and

Pilots(AVPs)controlledtheaircraftfromthe

MD-5 ground control station that includesLockheedMartin’sMDCX™system TheAVPsexecutedaseriesofmaneuversand tests, successfully validating the aircraft’s basic flight controls, engine performance, andhandlingcharacteristics “Achievingthisfirstflightunderscoresthe strong partnership between the Navy and ourindustrypartners,”saidRearAdm.Tony Rossi,whooverseestheProgramExecutive Office for Unmanned Aviation and Strike Weapons (PEO (U&W)). “The MQ-25A is not just an aircraft: it’s the first step in integrating unmanned aerial refueling onto the

carrier deck, directly enabling our manned fighters to fly further and faster This capabilityisvitaltothefutureofnavalaviation.”

The MQ-25A Stingray is the U.S. Navy’s first operational, carrier based unmanned aircraft system, designed primarily to serve as an aerial refueling tanker By taking over the refueling mission from crewed fighters the MQ-25A will significantly extend the combatrangeandeffectivestrikecapability oftheCarrierAirWing

“I am incredibly proud of the team for working tirelessly over the last several monthstoachievethismilestone,”saidCapt.

Daniel Fucito, Unmanned Carrier Aviation programmanager(PMA-268).“Thesuccessful first flight officially initiates the rigorous flight test program, which will focus on expanding the aircraft’s performance envelopeandverifyingallmissionsystems.”

The MQ-25A integrated test team will continuegroundcontrolstationintegration, expandingtheflightenvelope,andverifying performance parameters prior to its ferry flighttoPaxRiverlaterthisyear

Quarterdeck

DAV to launch claims filing center for transitioning service members

By Kelly Wirfel NAVAL STATION NORFOLK PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICER

NORFOLK,VA(NSN) Formanyservice members,leavingthemilitarycanfeeloverwhelming especially when navigating the complexitiesoffilingdisabilityclaims.That’s where Disabled American Veterans (DAV) comesin.ThemissionofDAVistoempower veterans to lead high-quality lives through benefits assistance employment support andadvocacy AtNavalStationNorfolk,that mission is taking a major step forward with a new initiative aimed at simplifying the disability claims process for transitioning servicemembers

Leading that effort is Brenda Lamb, a retired service member with nearly 30 years in uniform who has spent more than a decade helping active-duty personnel prepare for life after service As a transition

serviceofficer,Lambassistsservicemembers with filing Department of Veterans Affairs disabilityclaimsbeforetheyseparate,guiding themthroughaprocessthatisoftenseenas complexandoverwhelming Herexperience in both the military and mental health field has shaped her approach, focusing on trust, clarityandreducingstress

“The idea is to make this process as easy andapproachableaspossibleforourservice members,” Lamb said “There’s so much misinformation out there, and people come in already feeling anxious or overwhelmed When they walk through our doors, I want themtofeellikethey’regoingtobetakencare offromstarttofinish.WhenItellthem‘Igot you,’Imeanthat Wearewiththemthrough theentireprocessandbeyond.

The planned

“claims filing center” will expand DAV’s current capabilities by creating a centralized, high-capacity space where service members can begin

and complete their claims with immediate, in-person support Unlike the current appointment-based system, the new model isdesignedtoallowcontinuousflow,enabling staff to assist multiple individuals at once while also offering training and education ontheclaimsprocess

“With this new space, we’re going to be able to help more people at one time and eliminate a lot of the delays that come with scheduling appointments,” Lamb said. “Service members will be able to walk over directlyfromtheirtransitionclassesandget startedrightaway Itcutsouttheextrasteps and makes the entire experience more efficient,whilestillmaintainingtheprivacyand caretheydeserve.Ultimately it’saboutgiving themonelessthingtoworryaboutduringa stressfultransition.”

Lamb said the vision for the center is not onlytoimproveaccessbuttosetanewstandard for how installation-level support can

operate The facility is expected to provide both one-on-one assistance and group instruction, allowing service members to betterunderstandtheirbenefitswhilereceivinghands-onguidancefromtrainedprofessionals

“This is about building something that truly meets the needs of our transitioning service members,” she said. “We want to create a space where they feel confident, supported and informed every step of the way.Ifwecandothathere,there’snoreason thismodelcan’tbeusedatotherinstallations aswell.Attheendoftheday,it’saboutmaking sure they leave here knowing someone has theirback.”

The claims filing center is expected to beginapilotphaselaterthisyear,withplans torefinetheprocessbeforeafullrollout

‘We think in decades’: ONR leaders talk future of autonomy, unmanned innovation

By Warren Duffie OFFICE OF NAVAL RESEARCH

When asked about the Office of Naval Research’s(ONR)roleinthedevelopmentof autonomousandunmannedsystems,Chiefof NavalResearch(CNR)Dr RachelRileyhighlightedsomeofthecommand’smostsuccessfulinvestments:REMUSunderwatervehicles inthe1990sandearly2000s,swarmboatsin 2014, LOCUST aerial vehicles in 2015, and theSeaHunterandSeaHawksurfacevehiclesin2017

“I don’t say all this to brag but rather to let you all see really great examples of how ONRdoesitsmission,”saidRiley.“Westart withbasicresearchandpartnerwithindustry to educate them on what the Navy and Marine Corps need in terms of readiness andlethality

“As technologists, we’re futurists,” she continued. “That gives us a unique opportunity to share a slightly different demand signal than some of our partner organizations We not only think about near-term capabilities but also the naval needs of the future.Wethinkindecades.”

RileygaveherremarksduringanApril21 panel discussion held at the Navy League’s Sea-Air-Space (SAS) Exposition at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention CenterinNationalHarbor,Maryland.

Titled “From Concept to Capability: Aligning Autonomy Across our Maritime Forces,” the panel explored how autonomous systems are redefining maritime operations particularly joint integration efforts,operationalsynergyandpolicyalignmentacrossmilitaryservices.

ModeratedbyBryanClark,seniorfellow and director of the Center for Defense ConceptsandTechnologyatHudsonInstitute thepanel’sspeakersincluded: Anthony Antognoli, assistant commandant and program executive officer for Robotics and Autonomous Systems, U.S. CoastGuard NicholasBergeron,deputydirector Portfolio Acquisition Executive (PAE) Robotic andAutonomousSystems(RAS)

U.S. Marine Corps Brig Gen. Dustin J. Byrum,vicechiefofnavalresearch(VCNR) Duane Fotheringham, president of Unmanned Systems at HII-Mission Tech-

nologies

U.S.ArmyBrig Gen.MatthewRoss,director,JointInteragencyTaskForce401

Thepanelcoveredvarioustopicsregarding autonomous and unmanned systems, including more streamlined and standardized testing and evaluation, how to better incorporate warfighter feedback in the development process and shortening the time needed to get software approvals and authorizations

Riley stressed ONR’s commitment to increasing its partnerships with industry

She highlighted the command’s recent announcement about its upcoming series of Innovation Industry Days (I2D), which aredesignedtopromotecollaborationwith industryandspotlighttheNavyandMarine Corps’ most pressing research needs The firstI2DwilltakeplaceonThursday,May14

“We’re going to brief out ONR’s 11 S&T [science and technology] focus areas,” she said.“Thisinvolvesthetechnologythatwe

believetheNavyandMarineCorpswillneed in the next 15 years. We hope to encourage greater industry investment as well as educateourownfolksaboutcapabilitiesthat couldbewellservedbyindustry.”

VCNR Byrum, who also serves as commanding general of the Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory (MCWL), echoed Riley’sendorsementofgreatercollaboration withindustry

“AtMCWL,welookatthefutureoperating environment and what equipment and technologiesMarineswillneedtosucceed,” hesaid.“Whenwefindthattechnology,we placeitinthehandsofMarinessotheycan testitandevenbreakit thenwefigureout howtofixitandmakeitbetter

“A crucial part of this involves working withindustry,whichplaysanimportantrole in helping us move at speed and at scale, so ouradversariesalwayshaveabadday.”

The CNR’s and VCNR’s panel participationwasjustoneaspectofONR’spresenceat

SAS.Tostrengthencollaborationwithindustry, while enhancing warfighter readiness and lethality, ONR to include the Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) and ONR’s international arm, ONR Global hosted anexhibitattheevent.

The exhibit featured ONR- and NRL-sponsored technologies, interactive displays and informational materials In addition, ONR, NRL and ONR Global program officers and other personnel engaged with industry, government and militaryleaderstodiscusswaystoadvance cutting-edge S&T capabilities to the Fleet andForce.

InadditiontotheCNRandVCNR,other ONRandNRLleadersparticipatedinpanel discussions:

OnMonday,April20,Capt.RandyC.Cruz, NRL commanding officer, gave a presentation titled “Naval Research: From DiscoverytoDeployment,DeliveringScienceand TechnologyforNavalDominance.”HehighlightedhowNRLisascientificandengineering command dedicated to research that drivesinnovativeadvancesfortheNavyand MarineCorps fromtheseafloortospaceand intheinformationdomain.

On Tuesday, April 21, ONR Mission SupportDirectorArveiceWashington,SES, moderated a panel titled “Doing Biz with ONRandNRL,”whichfeaturedNavalSBIR/ STTR Director Brian Shipley, ONR Small Business Director Andrew Chappell, ONR ContractingDirectorJamieThompsonand NRL Technology Transfer Director Kerry Leonard.Thepaneldiscussedvariousmechanisms, such as licensing agreements and contracts,forcollaboratingwiththebroader scientificcommunity withinandoutsideof thefederalgovernment.

HostedbytheNavyLeagueoftheUnited States Sea-Air-Space is the premier maritime exposition for the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard and defense industry With16,000attendeesand297seniorfederal executivesandflagofficers,theconference brings together senior military leadership, governmentdecisionmakers,industrypartners and research institutions to showcase emergingtechnologies,discussoperational challenges and highlight priorities across navalwarfaredomains

NMRLC Command Master Chief Brandon L. Lindbeck retires after 30 years of service

ByJulius Evans

YORKTOWN,Va. —Naval Medical Readiness Logistics Command (NMRLC)held aretirementceremonyto saygoodbye to Command Master Chief Hospital Corpsman Brandon Lindbeck at the NavalWeaponsStationYorktownNelsonChapel,Friday April17.Capt.ChristopherBarnes,NMRLC’s commandingofficer,wasthepresidingofficer Familyandfriendsfromaroundthenation were present, making this astanding-roomonly event. Shipmateswho served with him frompreviousdutystationswerealsopresent towatchtheheartfeltpresentationofmementos,stories,andsalutations

Atonepointintheceremony,whenLindbecksharedastoryabouthowhisjourneyin theNavybegan,herecountedhowhisfatherin-lawhad recommended that he join the NavyinsteadoftheCoastGuard.

“Iwantedtoseetheworld,soIsharedthis with my father-in-law. He replied that if I really wanted to see theworld, Ishould join theNavy.”Unbeknownsttohim,althoughhis father-in-lawcouldn’tbepresent,hedidsend aletter

“Brandon,Mom,andIaresoproudofyou! Youhaveexcelledinyour30-yearNavycareer, attaining the rank of Master Chief!Irecall tellingyoutojointheNavywhenIheardyou werecontemplatingjoiningtheCoastGuard.I askedyouwhytheCoastGuard?Yousaidyou wanted to see the world,towhich Ireplied thatifyouwanttoseetheworld,jointheNavy That is whereIsaw the world, as Ispent 15 years stationed in distant landsand lovedit. Iamvery glad youjoined my favoritearmed force.Congratulationsonretiringafterthree decades.YouobviouslywereadedicatedNavy man,husband,andfathertoyourwonderful children! Your favorite father-in-law and mother-in-law.Weloveyou!TomandLouise LindbeckgraduatedfromKnoxvilleHigh School in 1994and enlisted inthe United StatesNavyinApril1996.Hecompletedbasic trainingatRecruitTrainingCommand,Great Lakes,Illinois,followedbyHospital CorpsmanA-School. HewentontoFieldMedicalServiceSchool at Marine Corps Base,Camp Pendleton, San Diego,CA. He later completed Submarine Independent Duty Corpsman Schoolin Groton,CT,andNavyDiveSchoolinPanama City,FL.

His sea duty assignments included12th Marines,Okinawa,Japan;26thMSSG,Jacksonville,NC; USSMemphis (SSN-691), Groton,CT;USSSanJuan(SSN-751),Groton, CT;andtheUSSMississippi(SSN-782),Pearl Harbor,HI.

His shoreduty assignmentsincluded

BranchMedicalClinic,Brunswick,ME;Naval UnderseaMedicalInstitute,Groton,CT;Naval HealthCareNewEngland,Newport,RI;and NavalHealthClinicHawaii,PearlHarbor,HI. Lindbeck is agraduate of Trident UniversityInternationalwithaBachelorofScience degree in HealthCareAdministration. His decorations include the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals,Navyand MarineCorpsAchievementMedals,andvariousunitandcampaignawards.

Whenitwasallsaidanddone,thoseinthe audience talked about howfitting theceremonywasinhonoringashipmateaftersuch alongperiodoftime

“This wasanamazing ceremony, and I couldtellthathetouchedalotofliveswhilehe wasintheNavy,”saidaformeremployeewho retiredshortlyafterLindbeckcameaboard. NMRLC bids him farewell and following seas.

Courtesy Story NAVALFACILITIES ENGINEERING SYSTEMS COMMAND (NAVFAC) MID-ATLANTIC NORFOLK,Va. —Naval Facilities Engineering SystemsCommand Mid-Atlantic (NAVFACMIDLANT)awarded Union Paving&ConstructionCo.Inc.,Mountainside, NewJersey,a$17,154,700 firm-fixed-price construction contracttoexecute rail infrastructurerepairs at NavalWeapons Station EarleinColtsNeck,NewJersey Theproject,whichsupportstheNormandy Road Ammunition Rail, willbeconducted on-site and is scheduled to be completed by July2027. Fiscal year (FY)2026Commander,Navy Installations Command operations and maintenance,(Navy)funds in theamount of $17,154,700willbeobligatedattimeofaward andwillexpireattheendofthecurrentFY Thiscontractwascompetitivelyprocured via the SAM.govwebsite,with threeoffers received. NAVFAC MIDLANT is the contracting activity(N40085-26-C-0008).

NAVFACMIDLANTdeliverscomprehensivefacilitiesengineering,publicworks,and environmental services across abroad area of responsibility —fromSouthCarolina to Maine,extending west to Illinois and south toIndiana ForadditionalinformationaboutNAVFAC MIDLANTonsocialmedia,followouractivities on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ navfacmidatlanticandonInstagram@navfacmidatlantic

Mid-Atlantic Fleet and Family SupportCenters(FFSC) programs andservices are designedtohelp youmake the mostofyour military experience, andthey’re all available to youatnocost.

Residents can help protect our local waterways

stormwaterpicksup,carries,anddischarges various pollutants into storm drains or ditches, and ultimately into the downstreamwaterways.Pollutantsincludeitems such as pesticides, fertilizers, construction site sediments, pet waste, litter, and other items Prevention of stormwater pollution isimportantto:

„ Preventcontaminationofdrinkingwater sources

„ Protectourpreciouswaterresourcesfor recreationalactivitiessuchasfishing,swimming,andboating

„ Protectplantandanimalhabitats

„ Preserve the natural beauty of our landscape

First, it is important to understand the difference between the sanitary system and the storm drain system. The illustration shows how water from our sinks, showers andbathtubs,clotheswashingmachines,and dish washers all enter the sanitary system via pipes that are connected to a wastewater treatment plant. Pollutants from these waters are then removed by the treatment plantprocessesbeforebeingdischarged.

By contrast, stormwater, which runs off our rooftops driveways, roads, and lawns, enters into the storm drain system and discharges directly to nearby streams, lakes or bays withoutreceivingany treatment.

Have you ever wondered what you can do to help protect the rivers, streams, and waterways near your home? In addition to serving as our drinking water supplies, these water bodies also provide us with variousrecreationalactivitiesandbeautiful scenery Thisarticleisthefirstofafour-part seriestoprovideyouwithmoreinformation on the common sources of pollution from our everyday activities and, more importantly, habits that you can adopt to prevent thispollution.

Stormwater runoff results when rain cannot soak into the ground because of impervioussurfacessuchasroadsandrooftops Stormwater pollution results when

Business

By Warren Duffie OFFICE OF NAVAL RESEARCH

To strengthen collaboration with industry, while enhancing warfighter readiness and lethality, the Office of Naval Research (ONR) to include the Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) and ONR’s international arm, ONR Global will host an exhibit at theNavyLeague’sSea-Air-SpaceExposition, April 20-22, at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland.

The exhibit (No. 1653) will feature ONRandNRL-sponsoredtechnologies,interactive displaysandinformationalmaterials.Inaddition, ONR, NRL and ONR Global program officersandotherpersonnelwillengagewith industry,governmentandmilitaryleadersto discusswaystoadvancecutting-edgescience andtechnology(S&T)capabilitiestotheFleet andForce.

A crucial part of this outreach involves in-personengagementwithindustry from conversations at the exhibit to dialogue on the showroom floor Also, ONR objectives for effective S&T partnerships will be highlighted during industry-centric panel discussions,featuringcommandleadersand representativesfromitsSmallBusinessand TechnologyTransferoffices

“Sea-Air-SpaceisanopportunityforONR, NRLandONRGlobaltoengagewithindustry and build powerful partnerships resultingindominantwarfightingcapabilitiesthat will re-shape the Navy and Marine Corps’ future,”saidChiefofNavalResearch(CNR) Dr RachelRiley At Sea-Air-Space this year, ONR will announce a series of Innovation Industry Days that will take place at ONR over the coming months designed to chart the future, overcome hurdles share priorities and continue to lead the way in developing anddeliveringAmerica’sdominantwarfightingcapabilities

“TheDepartmentofWarandDepartment oftheNavyguidanceisclear:Wearemoving forward to ensure continued warfighting dominance,”saidRiley

TheCNRandotherONRandNRLleaders arescheduledtoparticipateinseveralpanels duringSea-Air-Space:

Monday, April 20, 3 p.m.-3:45 p.m.,

You may have noticed decals (pictured at left) near storm drains indicating that the storm drains flow directly to a nearby waterway NAVFAC

Mid-Atlanticinstallsthesedecalstoeducate residentsandemployeesoftheNavyinstallationsonstormwaterpollutionprevention. Commonsourcesofstormwaterpollution fromourlawnsincludepetwaste,fertilizers pesticides, lawn clippings and leaves, and other substances which may be left uncov-

ered(suchasdirtpiles saltpiles,paints oils etc.). In addition, car maintenance activitiessuchasoilchangesandcarwashingcan contributetostormwaterpollutionwhenoil anddetergentrunintothegutter Remember tocollectallusedoilanddisposeofitproperly Whenwashingacar,it’sbettertowash on grass, which helps to filter the contaminants ortouseacommercialcarwash. Thanksforreadingandbesuretopickup the next issue of The Flagship to read Article 2 in this series which will provide some specific examples of everyday activities to preventstormwaterpollutionfromautomotive,home,pool,andlawncaremaintenance activities

Command Central Stage (Booth No 1653), PrinceGeorge’sExhibitHall:Capt.RandyC. Cruz,NRLcommandingofficer willspeakon apaneltitled“NavalResearch:FromDiscovery to Deployment, Delivering Science and TechnologyforNavalDominance.”Thegoal ofthispanelistodiscusshowNRLisascientific and engineering command dedicated to research that drives innovative advances for the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps, from the seafloor to space and in the information domain.

Tuesday,April21,3:30p.m.-4:30p.m.,Potomac C: CNR Riley and Vice Chief of Naval Research Brig Gen. Dustin J. Byrum will speak on a panel titled “From Concept to Capability: Aligning Autonomy Across our Maritime Forces.” This panel will explore how autonomous systems are redefining maritimeoperations particularlyjointintegrationefforts operationalsynergyandpolicy alignmentacrossmilitaryservices

Tuesday, April 21, 3 p.m.-3:45 p.m.,

Command Central Stage (Booth No 1653), PrinceGeorge’sExhibitHall:“DoingBizwith ONRandNRL, moderatedbyONRMission SupportDirectorArveiceWashington. SomeoftheONR-sponsoredtechnologies tobehighlightedatSea-Air-Spaceinclude: Virtual Bridge and Nautical Trainer (VIBRaNT) VIBRaNT is a portable, self-contained training system designed to create a realistic virtual ship’s bridge environment.

“RFSniffer” Enablesuserstosimplyand easilyidentifyradiofrequencytransmissions through the use of a lightweight, handheld directionaldevice HorizontalConstructionApp Thisapp allowsuserstoperformhorizontalconstruction(e.g.,roads,landingstrips)estimateswith uniformity throughout the Marine Corps engineeringcommunity InadditiontoSea-Air-Space,theGaylord

will host the Navy League’s STEM Expo on Sunday, April 19, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The eventisfreeandgearedtostudentsingrades 5through12 Itwillprovideanintroductionto navalSTEM(science,technology,engineering, mathematics) careers through workshops, hands-on activities and more. The DepartmentoftheNavy’sNavalSTEMCoordinationOffice,locatedatONR,willexhibit attheevent.

HostedbytheNavyLeagueoftheUnited States,Sea-Air-Spaceisthepremiermaritime exposition for the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard and defense industry. With 16,000attendeesand297seniorfederalexecutivesandflagofficers theconferencebrings togetherseniormilitaryleadership,governmentdecisionmakers,industrypartnersand research institutions to showcase emerging technologies,discussoperationalchallenges andhighlightprioritiesacrossnavalwarfare domains

Shore Boss recognizes fuel management excellence at inaugural awards ceremony

By Chief Petty OfficerJanweb Lagazo COMMANDER, NAVY INSTALLATIONS COMMAND

ARLINGTON, Va Commander, Navy InstallationsCommand(CNIC)todayhosted theinauguralNavyFuelManagementExcellenceAwards,recognizingthetopindividuals andteamsfortheiroutstandingcontributions to Navy readiness and fuel operations The ceremony was held during the DLA Energy WorldwideEnergySymposiumattheHyatt RegencyinCrystalCity

These awards are designed to honor the Navy’s most dedicated fuel management professionals whose expertise is critical to thesuccessofthefleet.Theselectionprocess was based on a nominee’s mission support, operationaleffectiveness,andoverallimpact ontheirinstallation’ssuccess Thisisthefirst year the awards have been presented under CNIC following the command and control realignment of the Navy’s Defense Fuel SupportPoints(DFSPs).

“The operational readiness of our fleet starts on the shore, and fuel is the critical lifeblood that powers our mission,” said Vice Adm. Scott Gray, Commander, Navy InstallationsCommand,whopresentedthe awards “Theseinauguralawardsrecognize the unsung heroes who manage this vital resource with unparalleled professionalismanddedication.Theirexpertiseensures thatourships aircraft,andshorefacilitiesare alwaysreadytorespondtothenation’scall.I amincrediblyproudtohonortheiroutstandingcontributions.”

The Navy-wide program, managed by theNavyPetroleumOffice(NPO),isopento

personnelfromCNICinstallations,Military Sealift Command Combat Logistics Force (CLF) Oilers as well as Fleets and CombatantCommand(CCMD)FuelsOfficers

Thewinnersexpressedgratitudeandcreditedtheirteamsfortheirachievement.

“This award is a tremendous honor and a reflection of the hard work my team puts in, saidLt Cmdr GeneKrampen,recipient oftheNavyFuelsOfficerExcellenceAward. “Providingfueltowhoneedsitandwhenthey need it is a mission we take very seriously. Thisrecognitionvalidatesthoseefforts.”

The sentiment was shared by the recipientoftheNavyFuelsPettyOfficerExcellence Award.

“Iamhumbledandgratefultobetheleading petty officer,” said Aviation Boatswain’s Mate-Fuels First Class Mayra Gainey. “It’s trulyateameffortat[DFSP]Oceanaandwe workthechallengestogethertoaccomplish what we need to do safely I owe it to my mentors and my Sailors for the strong team wehave.”

The recipients of the inaugural Navy Fuel Management Excellence Awards are:

„ CategoryI:LargeBulkFuelDefenseFuel Support Points (DFSPs) DFSP Manchester, NavalRegionNorthwest

„ Category II:Small and Medium Bulk Fuel DFSPs DFSP Oceana, Naval Region Mid-Atlantic

„ Category III: Individual Navy Fuels Officer:LCDRGeneKrampen,NavalRegion Southeast Navy Fuels Chief Petty Officer:

ARLINGTON, Va (April 20, 2026) Vice Adm. Scott Gray, commander, Navy Installations Command poses with attendees of the inaugural Fuel Management Excellence Awards held during the DLA Energy Worldwide Energy Symposium at Arlington, Va April 20 2026. The Navy Fuel Management Excellence Awards recognized the top individuals and teams for their outstanding contributions to Navy readiness and fuel operations. (U.S.NAVY PHOTO BYCHIEFMASS COMMUNICATION SPECIALISTJANWEB B.LAGAZO)

ABFC Henry Flowers, Naval Air Station OceanaNavyFuelsPettyOfficer:ABF1Mayra Gainey,NavalAirStationOceanaNavyFuels SeniorCivilian:Mr MichaelTwyman,Naval RegionJapanNavyFuelsJuniorCivilian:Mr GeorgeF.Heider,NavalAirStationOceana

Commander NavyInstallationsCommand isresponsibleforworldwideU.S.NavyShore installation management, designing and

The “Father of Aegis”

By Staff Sgt. Bryce Hodges NAVAL HISTORY

AND HERITAGE COMMAND

U.S. Navy history is filled with numerous legendary figures stretching back over 250 years From John Paul Jones in the revolutionarywar,andCommodoreOliverHazard Perry, in the 19th century, to Fleet Admiral ChesterW.NimitzinWorldWarIIandMedal ofHonorrecipientMichaelP.Murphyinthe 21st century But among these naval heroes one,perhapslesserknown,individualisoften overlooked. A man whose vision and leadership would lead to one of the most significant innovations in modern naval warfare. The“FatherofAegis”,RearAdmiralWayne E.Meyer.

Rear Admiral Wayne E. Meyer was born in 1926 in Brunswick Missouri. He would enlistintheU.S.Navyattheageof17in1943 duringWorldWarIIandearnhiscommission throughtheV-12officertrainingprogram,a programdesignedtosupplytheU.S.military withtechnicallyskilledofficers Meyerwould graduatefromtheUniversityofKansaswitha BachelorofScienceinelectricalengineering in 1946 and would later expand his education through the Massachusetts Institute of Technology earning a Master’s of Science

in Aeronautics and Astronautics, as well as advanced engineering studies at the Naval PostgraduateSchool.

Overthecourseofhisnavalcareer,Meyer servedinavarietyofcommandsbothashore and at sea. While serving aboard destroyers cruisers and in early guided missile assignments, it was normal to find weapon, command, and radar systems operating as separate entities that required a significant amountofcoordinationbetweenthem This disconnect could lead to slower response times when speed and accuracy was critical. Meyer believed it was time for the Navy tofundamentallyshiftitsprocedurestoone wheretheseseparatepartswereallcombined intoasinglesystem.

In 1970 he would get his chance to bring thisvisiontolifewhenhewasassignedtothe AdvancedSurfaceMissileSystemProgram whichwouldlaterbecalledAegis Withthe Navyfacinggrowingthreatsfromtechnologicaladvancements,suchashigh-speedantishipmissiles,Meyerandhisteam,througha systems-basedapproach,laidtheframework forAegis

Meyers efforts ensured the slower, often human dependent, parts of a ships battle rhythmwereintegratedasone

The Rear Admiral also created a simple

philosophy, “build a little, test a little, learn alot.”

Breaking with tradition, Meyer insisted the Navy no longer develop systems in one longstretch,whileholdingoffontestinguntil the very end. Instead, he pushed for much smaller incremental builds that were regularly tested, with the idea being that each part of a system had to prove they worked priortothembeingintegrated.Thisapproach lowered risks and made sure systems actuallyworkedinpracticeandnotjustintheory. Thismindsetcarriedthroughtoearlylandbased and shipboard demonstrations, most notablyaboardUSSNortonSound.Ithelped leadtoastricterprogramstandard,ensuring anychangesinsoftwareorhardwarehadto becompletelyunderstoodatthebasicsystem levelbeforeanyonewouldsignoffonthem.

In 1983 USS Ticonderoga (CG-47), the first ship in the world to be equipped with an operational Aegis system, was commissioned, making a momentous turning point insurfacenavalwarfare.Forthefirsttimein historyasingleshipcouldtrackavastnumber ofairbornethreatsatthesametimeandcoordinate multiple engagements in real time ThischangedhowtheU.S.Navyapproached protectingcarrierstrikegroupsandexpeditionaryforces

developingintegratedsolutionsforsustainmentanddevelopmentofNavyshoreinfrastructure as well as quality of life programs CNIC oversees 10 Navy regions, 70 installations andmorethan48,600employeeswho are focused on warfighting and manning, training and equipping the Shore to fight and win. Navy installations are warfighting platformsessentialtoeveryfleetoperation.

Sinceinception,theAegiscombatsystem has continued to evolve and grow What started out as system for fleet defense has advanced to a become a key part of ballistic missile defense Foreign navies quickly tooknoteofthesystemsvalueandeffectiveness, and countries including Spain, South Korea, Japan, and Australia adopted their ownversions

Today, Aegis is one of the most widely fielded and most advanced naval combat systemsintheworld.

After42yearsofserviceMeyerretiredas the Deputy Commander for Weapons and Combat Systems at Naval Sea and Systems Command, in 1985 His influence went beyondthetechnologyitselfandintohowthe Navyapproachescomplexsystemsdevelopment.Theiterativemodelhehelpedpushis stillacorepartofmoderndefenseacquisition. HepassedawayinSeptember2009atthe age of 83, but his legacy can still be found everytimeanAegisradarscansthehorizon or a missile is launched in defense of a fleet. RearAdmiralWayneE.Meyerwasfarmore thanadesignerofsystems hehelpedfundamentally change how naval warfare itself is organizedandfights

Shortly after his passing, USS Wayne E. Meyer (DDG-108), an Arleigh Burke class destroyer wascommissioned.Tothisdayshe isoneofdozensofAegisequippedwarships thatformthebackboneofU.S.naval,air,and missiledefense

NAVSUP presents at Sea Air Space 2026

By Petty Officer 3rd Class Brendan Mccormack NAVAL SUPPLY SYSTEMS COMMAND

TheGaylordNationalResortConvention Center buzzed with activity on Sunday as exhibitors from dozens of defense industry companiespreparedtheirexhibitboothsfor theSeaAirSpace(SAS)expositionthefollowingday.Anannualthree-dayeventsponsored bytheNavyLeague,SASisasmuchashowcase of state of the art for defense and maritimeindustryandpolicyasitisanetworking opportunity for businesses looking to contractwiththeU.S.Navy

Among the official U.S. delegations to the convention was the Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP), an echelon 2 command that awards more than 40% of Navy contracts NAVSUP’s procurement responsibilities comprise weapon systems, spares and repair parts; Navy medical supplies and services; and commercial suppliesandservicesthatsupportthefleet

“Every vendor here wants to do business with one of the Navy’s weapon systems or otherwise fulfill the Navy’s procurement needs,” said NAVSUP Weapon Systems Support Vice Commander Lynn Kohl “However, the Navy has specific procurement compliance requirements, so aspiring entrants into the marketplace often don’t know how to get started. That’s why it’s so important for NAVSUP to send representatives to the expo Yes, we are the gatekeepers butwe’retryingtogetpeoplein,notkeep them out,” Kohl clarified, “so it’s important wehelpbusinessesfindthegate.”

The expo featured presentations from NAVSUP representatives, all of whom are experts in logistics contracting, informationtechnology,andsmallbusiness Presentationtopicsincludedhowtotakeadvantage of opportunities to work with NAVSUP, how NAVSUP conducts sourcing and how NAVSUP engages small businesses for its procurementoperations

“NAVSUP’spresencehereatSeaAirSpace isinvaluable,”maintainsNAVSUPWeapons Systems Support Level I Program Manager forSpecialEmphasisProgramsJackieCoble “The Navy has unmet procurement needs andthedollarsneededtomeetthem.Butthe

defenseindustrialbaseisstrugglingtokeep upwithNavydemand.

Thecauseofthatstruggleisoftentwofold.

Sometimes existing contractors lack the capacity to fulfill Navy procurement needs completely andsometimestherearesimply no bidders for certain contracts. In the first case,theproblemcanbesolvedbyconnectingprimarycontractorswithsubcontractors, to whom they can outsource procurement beyond their capacity limits In the second case,theproblemcanbesolvedbyclarifying theNavy’sprocurementcompliancerequire-

mentssomorebusinessescanbidforunfulfilledcontracts

“We have educated so many potential contractors here, and invited them to learn more about NAVSUP, what we do, what we arelookingfor andhowtheycanfindopportunitiestosupportus,”Cobleadded.“There is definitely a space for subcontractors to support the Navy just as much as primary contractors,andweareclosingthisweekwith new and strengthened relationships and a morerobustcontractorpool. NAVSUPisheadquarteredinMechanics-

burg, Pennsylvania, and employs a diverse worldwide workforce of more than 25,000 militaryandcivilianpersonnel.NAVSUPand the Navy Supply Corps conduct and enable supplychain,acquisition,operationallogistics and Sailor & family care activities with our mission partners to generate readiness andsustainnavalforcesworldwidetoprevent anddecisivelywinwars Learnmoreatwww navsup.navy.mil,www.facebook.com/navsup andhttps://twitter.com/navsup

ByJames Foehl

NAVSUP BUSINESS SYSTEMS CENTER

MECHANICSBURG, Pa Capt. Don McIntyre relieved Capt. Juan Carlos “JC” Uribe ascommandingofficer NavalSupply Systems Command (NAVSUP) Business Systems Center (BSC), during a change of commandceremonyonboardNavalSupport ActivityMechanicsburg,April24

“For the Navy BSC is the provider and protector of our systems,” said Rear Adm. Kevin M. Corcoran, deputy commander, NAVSUP andpresidingofficerfortheevent “What you do at BSC ensures NAVSUP remains the leader in force sustainment duringpeacetime,duringconflict,takingcare ofourSailorswhoareincombatoperations, such as our Navy has endured over the past twomonths Youenableustosustainthefleet, soournationcankeepthesealanesopenfor therestoftheworld.

“JC, you’ve had a remarkable tour You are an extraordinary leader and have done a fantastic job leading BSC in every aspect Youtreatpeoplelikepeopleshouldbetreated, withdignity respect,compassion,andhumility,allwhilesustainingourwarfightingreadiness mission,” he said. “Not only are you a greatNavyleader,butyou’vebeenamodelfor any of us in leaving a command better than youfoundit.

“Don, you have a tough act to follow, but weallknowyou’regoingtodojustfine You’ll continueJC’slegacywhiledevelopinginyour own voice, with your own vision and your ownstyle OurNavyonlychoosesthebestof thebestforacommandopportunitysuchas theoneyouaresteppinginto Weknowthat BSCisingoodhands,”saidCorcoran.

Uribe served as commanding officer, NAVSUP BSC, from August 2024 to April 2026 and received the Legion of Merit for hisexceptionallymeritoriousconductinthe performanceofoutstandingservice Underhisleadership,NAVSUPBSCunderwentsignificantdigitalacceleration,increasing the velocity and security of information technology(IT)capabilitiesacrosstheenterprise Heexpertlyorchestratedthemodernization of critical fleet-facing applications, including the Food Service Management and Hazardous Material Inventory Control System, as well as the Navy Data Platform, enhancing data-driven decision-making Simultaneously,hedrovethemigrationof17 criticalapplicationstoasecurecloudenvironment, dramatically improving system resilienceandagility Asanexemplarofthe“Get Real, Get Better” principles, the command ledeffortstodevelopandfieldnext-generationsystems,suchastheElectronicProcurementSystem Supply Theyalsoemployed technological innovations and automations thateliminatedtheneedformanualinputof business transactions saving thousands of laborhours

“Everything about this command represents the very best of what happens whenyouassembleasmallbutmightyteam ofquietprofessionalswhoaimtobethebest,” saidUribe

“Themagnitudeoftheresponsibilitiesyou carry forges the strongest elements of character,andIhadthegreatprivilegetoseethat every day, from sustainment, which in and of itself is a massive undertaking, to cloud

migrations, application upgrades, security patches, cutting-edge development, and troubleshooting system outages across a myriad of different systems, to all points in between.Youwentasfarastoreverse-engineercomplexdatastructuresandprocesses toaddressissuesimpactingourfleetsailors

“With the greatest precision and timeliness,youcarryforwardthemissionthisorganizationhasbeencommittedtoformorethan sixdecades Thankyou, saidUribe McIntyre most recently served as the director of Supply Chain Management for Commander,NAVSUP

“Weareinthemidstofafourthindustrial revolutionguidedbythefastpaceoftechnologicaldevelopmentsandtheneedforaccurateandinstantaneousinformationtomake criticaldecisions,”saidMcIntyre.

“TheNavy’sdesiretohavesafeandsecure dataexchanges,dataanalytics,artificialintelligence,andcybersecurityarekeyenablersto keepingourNavystrong Iamconfidentthe NAVSUPBusinessSystemsCenterworkforce

is poised and ready to support any new requirements the Chief of Naval Operations and NAVSUPEnterpriserequire.

“Workingwitheachofyou,wewilltackle these challenges head-on, take risks when appropriate, and generate solutions for our customersthatmakeadifference

“Thankyou,Capt.Uribe,foryourleadership, guidance, and hospitality during this transition.Youcontinuetosetthestandard,” saidMcIntyre.

McIntyre is a native of London, Ontario andearnedhiscommissionthroughOfficer Candidate School in 2004 He completed multiple assignments afloat, overseas and ashore including USS Scout (MCM 8); USS HarryS.Truman(CVN75);USSGeorgeH.W. Bush(CVN77);JointContractingCommand in Kandahar, Afghanistan; NAVSUP Fleet Logistics Center in Norfolk, Va.; NAVSUP Weapon Systems Support in Philadelphia, Pa.; Naval Air Systems Command in PatuxentRiver,Md.;Commander,NavalAirForces PacificinSanDiego,Calif.;andCommander, NAVSUP inMechanicsburg. Uribe transfers to U.S. Fleet Forces

Command in Norfolk, Va., and will serve as theLogisticsReadinessCenterchief.

NAVSUP BSC is one of 11 commands under Commander, NAVSUP, and delivers IT and information management solutionswithspecificemphasisonlogisticsand financial-related products and services for the Navy Department of War, other federal agencies,andinternationalcustomers NAVSUP is headquartered in Mechanicsburg and employs a diverse, worldwide workforceofover25,000militaryandcivilianpersonnel.NAVSUPandtheNavySupply Corps conduct and enable supply chain, acquisition, operational logistics, and Sailor family care activities with mission partners to generate readiness, sustain naval forces worldwide, and

Local Navy leader inspires next generation through service, family, and Girl Scouts

Press Release

GIRL SCOUTS OF THE COLONIAL COAST

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va —As the nation celebrates the Month of the Military Child, one local service member is demonstrating howleadership family andcommunitycan cometogethertoshapethenextgeneration

Captain Terra Gray, currently serving as Assistant Chief of Staff Manpower and PersonnelReadinessatNavyExpeditionary Combat Command in Virginia Beach, has builtanimpressivemilitarycareerrisingfrom Aviation Machinist’s Mate to senior leadership Beyondherprofessionalachievements, Gray is equally committed to her role as a mother of three and a dedicated Girl Scout troopleader Graycreditshersuccesstoacarefullycultivated work-life blend and a strong support system.

“Successfullybalancingmycommitmentto ourcountryandmydedicationtomyfamily hinges on a strong support network and an intentional personal strategy,” she said. “I amincrediblyfortunatetohaveasupportive husband,extendedfamily,andacommunity of fellow military and Chesapeake families who provide a unique and essential understandingofthislifestyle.”

Athome,Grayandherdaughtersapproach military life as a team prioritizing open communication,shareddecision-making,and intentional family time. That same philoso-

NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK

YORKTOWN, Va Grab your bike and helmet and enjoy a vehicle-free morning on the Colonial Parkway! Colonial National Historical Park, together with BikeWalk Williamsburg and Williamsburg Area Bicyclists, will open a seven-mile stretch of the historicroadwaynearJamestownIslandfor running walking and biking on Saturday, May 2, from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. Family activitiesandfreebikesafetycheckswillbeavailablefrom9a.m.to1p.m.

“We are excited to once again offer this uniqueopportunityforvisitorsofallagesto enjoytheparkwaybypedalorbyfootinasafe andfunway,”saidSuperintendentJerriMarr “WearealsogratefulfortheworkBikeWalk Williamsburg and Williamsburg Area Bicyclistshavedonetomakethisdayhappen.”

Park staff will close the Colonial Parkway to all vehicle access between Hwy 199/ Kingsport and Rt 359 at Jamestown startingat6a.m.,withreopeningscheduledfor1 p.m.Duringthistime,vehiclesmaycontinue to access Jamestown Island via Jamestown Road. Parkingandrestroomswillbeavailableat theJamestownVisitorCenteronJamestown Island and at the Jamestown Settlement, locatedat2110JamestownRoad.

All participants age 16 and older are requiredtopurchaseavisitorentrancepass torecreateontheColonialParkway.Thispass providesaccesstoallresourcesmanagedby theparkforsevenconsecutivedaysandmay be purchased on-site or at www.recreation. gov. America the Beautiful passes and Park Annualpasseswillalsobehonoredandavailableforpurchaseonsite.

Parkstaffencouragevisitorsandcommunity members to recreate responsibly For trip-planning tools and to discover other recreational activities, please visit: https:// www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/recreate-responsibly.htm. TheColonialParkwayisa23-milescenic

phycarriesintohervolunteerleadershipwith GirlScoutsoftheColonialCoast,whereshe leadsTroop948.

ThroughGirlScouts,Grayempowersgirls tobuildconfidence developleadershipskills and explore new opportunities Under her guidance, troop members have toured the USNSComfort,collaboratedwithsailorson first-aidkits,participatedinfinancialliteracy

programs with Navy Federal Credit Union, supportednonprofitorganizationslikeMutts with a Mission, and marched in local VeteransDayparades

“There’saremarkableparallelbetweenthe coreprinciplesofbothorganizations,”Gray said. “The Girl Scout Law and the military corevaluesarebuiltonthesamefoundation ofservice,responsibility,andcharacter.”

Gray also uses her own experiences in uniformtoinspirehertroop—sharingstories thathighlightteamwork,perseverance,and globalconnection.WhetherdescribinginternationalpartnershipsthroughNATOorher adventures at sea, her stories spark imaginationandreinforceanimportantmessage: women can thrive in powerful, impactful rolesinthemilitary

As communities honor military children this April, Gray’s leadership serves as a reminder of the strength and resilience of military families and the importance of programsthatsupportthem.

To learn more about how Girl Scouts supports military families, visit gsccc.org/ military About Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast: Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast, a United Wayagency,servesover8,000GirlScoutsin grades K through 12 with the help of more than4,000adultvolunteersinsoutheastern Virginia and northeastern North Carolina. GirlScoutsoffersaone-of-a-kindleadership development program for girls unleashing leadership skills in every girl in an all-girl environment Since 1912, Girl Scouts has been building youth of courage, confidence and character who make the world a better place.Tovolunteer,reconnect donateorjoin visitwww.gsccc.orgorcall1-800-77SCOUT

Gabby’s Dollhouse Fairylandia Tour flutters into Norfolk Botanical Garden

Press Release

DreamWorks Animation and KidsGardeningarelaunchingGabby’sDollhouse Fairylandia Tour, a three-month program intertwining the wonder of the new FairylandiasettingfeaturedinthehitNetflixseries andthehands-onenrichmentopportunities foundatbotanicalgardensacrossthecountry

Gabby is stepping out of her dollhouse, and intothegreatoutdoors!

Withamissiontohelpyoungmindsgrow and inspire natural curiosity, the Gabby’s Dollhouse Fairylandia activations will offer character meet and greets with Gabby* in her all-new, Fairylandia-themed attire and garden-themed craft activities at each tour stop Featured crafts include a sunflower

seedplantingactivity,andeachchildwillbe gifted an activity booklet including temporarytattoos watercolorsheet,andbuttonto commemorate their visit. The partnership kicksoffatDallasArboretumonApril11,and willtraverse12citiesfromApriltoJune,each featuringatwo-daystop

Before you leave don’t forget to visit our Gift Shop to purchase Gabby’s Dollhouse

Fairylandiamerchandise!

Sign up for your meet and greet with Gabbyandenjoyacraftongardeningonline atnorfolkbotanicalgarden.org.Thisisaticketedevent,advancedreservationisrequired. Gardenadmissionisincluded. *Gabbymeetandgreetstofeaturecostume character

Navigating the Future with the Past: ECSU’s new online history degree offers flexibility and value for military and non-traditional learners alike, Dr. Chaz Reed tells us about it

Interview By Yiorgo

As the operational tempo of the military continues to challenge service members, and working adults juggle career and family demands, accessible and meaningful degree programs are more critical than ever Recently, Elizabeth City State University (ECSU) launched a fully online Bachelor of Arts in History expanding its digital footprintandcreatingnewopportunitiesfor the military community, adult learners, and traditionalstudents

Tolearnmoreabouttheprogramandwhat it means for our readers, we sat down with Dr Chas Reed, Chair of the Department of English,History,andInterdisciplinaryStudiesatECSU.

Dr ChasReedisahistorianofmodernBritainandtheBritishEmpireandanAssociate Professor of History at Elizabeth City State University,anHBCUandconstituentinstitutionoftheUniversityofNorthCarolina.He earnedhisPh.D (2010)fromtheUniversity of Maryland, College Park. At ECSU, where he is presently teaching in his 16th year Dr ReedservesasthechairoftheDepartmentof English,History,andInterdisciplinaryStudiesandDirectorofGeneralEducation.Heis also a managing editor and review editor of H-Empire,theH-Netnetworkonthehistory of empires and colonialism, an associate editor at Itinerario: International Journal on the History of European Expansion and Global Interaction (Cambridge), and a past presidentoftheNorthCarolinaAssociation ofHistoriansandH-Net.

Yiorgo:Let’sstartwiththebignews.Your departmentrecentlyrolledoutanonlineBA in History Why did you choose to take this program online, and why is it a good fit for bothourmilitaryreadersandothernon-traditionalstudents?

ChasReed:Werecognizedadistinctneed forhigh-quality,flexibleHumanitieseducation. We are deeply committed to supportingourmilitary,transfer,andadultstudents, and we know that a traditional classroom schedule simply doesn’t work for everyone Whether someone is facing deployments and shifting watch bills, balancing a 9-to-5 jobandchildcare,orlookingforamoreadaptablepaththanastandardcampusexperience, taking the BA in History online means they cantaketheireducationwiththemwherever they go And it’s worth noting that this isn’t our first foray into online education; ECSU already offers robust online programs in Interdisciplinary Studies, Health and Wellness, Homeland Security, and Criminal Justice We have the infrastructure in place tofullysupportdistancelearnersofallbackgrounds

Y:Costisalwaysamajorfactorforservice members using Tuition Assistance, as well asforadultlearnersandtraditionalstudents managing their own finances. How does ECSUaddressthefinancialbarriersofhigher education?

CR: This is an area where we truly stand out. ECSU is proud to be an NC Promise school,whichmakesenrollinghereremarkably affordable For a full-time, in-state student,tuitionisjust$500persemester For full-time out-of-state students it is $3,500 persemester Thatlevelofaffordabilityallows military-affiliatedstudentstomaximizetheir educationalbenefits,andhelpsadultortraditional students earn a high-quality degree without taking on crushing student debt It makes finishing a degree a highly realistic, attainablegoalforanyone

Y:Let’splaydevil’sadvocateforamoment In a world where artificial intelligence is dominatingtheheadlinesandtechskillsare highly sought after, some might ask: why studyHistory?Howdoesadegreefromyour departmentactuallyhelpaservicemember a workingprofessional,oratraditionalstudent advancetheircareer?

CR: It’s a fair question, but it’s precisely because of the rise of AI that these degrees are becoming more vital. Industry experts areconsistentlypointingoutthatasautomation takes over routine tasks, the uniquely humanskillswillbewhatsetsleadersapart.A degreeinHistory—oranyprogramwithinour department—isn’t about memorizing dates. Itisaboutunderstandingthecomplexitiesof thehumanexperience,honingelitecommunicationskills anddevelopingsharpcritical thinking

Whether you are an intelligence specialistanalyzingtheculturalcontextofaregion, commanding officer leading a diverse unit, anadultlearnerlookingtodevelopjob-ready skillsthatcan’tbereplacedbyAI,orarecent high school graduate preparing to enter a rapidly changing workforce you need to be able to synthesize complex information,understanddifferingperspectives,and

communicateyourintentclearly Thoseare theexactskillswetrain.

Y:Whatdoestheactualcourseworklook like? Are online students just reading textbooks or is there a practical application to thehistorytheyarestudying?

CR:Itisincrediblydynamic.Westrongly believeinexperientiallearning,andweintegratealotofhands-onworkwithlocalhistory into our curriculum allowing students to engage directly with primary sources and communitynarratives

Furthermore, our students aren’t just getting a narrow view of the past They are learningdirectlyfromexpertsacrossawide spectrum, including US, African American, European, African, and Asian history We also place a major emphasis on Digital and Public History Our students are learning how to actively preserve, curate, and presenthistoricalnarrativesusingmoderndigital tools They are building practical portfolios ofworkthattranslatedirectlytoavarietyof moderncareers

Y:Itsoundslikeaprogrambuiltwithboth immediate flexibility and long-term career resilienceinmind.

CR: Absolutely. We want to meet our studentswheretheyare,andequipthemwith theinsightsandanalyticaltoolstheyneedto navigatewherevertheygonext.

Y:Let’slearnaboutyou.Wherewereyou born?Whatmadeyoufallinlovewitheducationandwantingtobecomeacollege/universityprofessor?

CR: I was born near Pittsburgh. When I wasyoung,Iwouldspendhourstalkingtomy grandfather about his life and experiences, particularly his service in World War II. He hadsomethinglikeafourth-gradeeducation, but his passion for learning and the world

alwaysstuckwithme Istartedcollegeplanning to become a lawyer And then I took my first college-level History class and was foreverhooked.

Y: What subjects do you teach? Do you haveafavoritesubjectthatyouteach?

CR:Iamtrainedasahistorianofmodern BritainandtheBritishEmpire.Content-wise my favorite classes explore global connectionsandmeanings(ourGeneralEducation course, Making of the Modern World, is a favorite). The best classes are those where studentsareasexcitedaboutthetopicasyou areandwheretheystartinspiringyou,rather thantheotherwayaround

Y:Canyoushareateachablemomentthat youexperiencedeitherpersonallyforyourselforonethathappenedwhereyoutaught ittostudentsifthatmakessense?

CR:Themostimportantlessonformewas andisthateveryonebringssomethingmeaningful and valuable to this work, but sometimesyouhavetohelpthemtofindwhatthat is Youhavetobeopen-mindedaboutit.Not everyone learns or thinks or sees the world asyoudo andhelpingstudentsfindtheirway into a topic or subject that they didn’t think they had the capacity for or an interest in is one of the most rewarding things one can experience

Y: You published a book. Can you tell us aboutit,whatisitaboutandwhatprompted youtowriteitandhowpeoplecangetit?

CR:Ieditedandexpandedmydissertation into a book called Royal Tourists, Colonial Subjects,andtheMakingofaBritishWorld, 1860-1901 that’s about how people from all walks of life across the empire made claims and claimed responsibilities during the moments of royal visits Perhaps of interest toyourreadersisthefactthatanumberofthe

childrenandgrandchildrenofQueenVictoria who went on these tours were sailors. One sightthattookabackobserversin1860Cape TownwasthesecondsonofQueenVictoria, Prince Alfred swabbing the deck of HMS Euryalus It is available on the Manchester UniversityPresswebsiteormanybooksellers Withsupportofagrant,itwasalsopublished asanopen-accessbookonOAPEN

Y:Doyouhaveanythingelseintheworks?

CR: Yes, I am working on a book now about the ways in which Black South AfricansmadeclaimsonBritishimperialcitizenship and constitutionalism over the second half of the nineteenth century and the early twentiethcentury Ididmostofthearchival researchacoupleofsummersagoandhoped to finish writing it this summer I hope that folksenjoyit.

Y: How about a wow pinch me moment ortwothatyougottoexperiencebecauseof beingineducation?

CR: I was a first-generation college student,sotherehavebeenmany Beingable toresearchinallkindsofcoolplaces Meeting scholarswhomI’vereadandadmired.Being atECSU,whichhasthisamazinghistorythat intersects with figures such as Alex Haley (I’vebeeninconversationswithhisniecethis year!)andMartinLutherKing,isawe-inspiringwhenIthinkaboutit.

*** To learn more about the online BA in HistoryorotherdistancelearningopportunitiesatECSU,visitlinktr.ee/ecsuehisandecsu edu.Dr Reedcanbereachedatcvreed@ecsu. eduor252.335.3201(textandvoice).

Yiorgo is an arts, entertainment and sports writer A stage TV and movie actor he is also a sports entertainer, educator, motivational speaker, writer, storyteller and columnist.

FOOD

Spice up brunch this Mother’s Day

Children commonly liketogivetheir mothers abreak fromcookingonMother’sDay.Youngstersmaybeeagerto helpoutinthekitchenandwhipupsomethingthatMom iscertain to enjoy. Butmanyrecipes can be complicated foryoungerchildrenorotherswhomightnotbesoadept withmealcreation.However,withafewingredientsthat families mayalready have on hand, it’s possibletocraft a deliciousMother’sDaybrunch.

This recipe for “Wee Chicken&Waffles with Jezebel-MapleSyrup”fromDeniseGee’s“SouthernAppetizers: 60 Delectables for Gracious Get-Togethers”(Chronicle Books) utilizes commercially available miniaturewaffles andpopcornchickenbitestocreateachickenandwaffles dish with akick. Servealongside mini muffins, deviled eggs,cheese and crackers,and other brunch dishes that aresimpleforyoungstersandtheirlittlefingerstoprepare WeeChicken&Waffles withJezebel-MapleSyrup

Serves 10 to 12,three or fourwaffles each

„ 40miniwafflesfroma10.9-ouncepackage, lightlytoasted

„ 40piecescookedfriedpopcornchicken

„ FinelychoppedfreshItalianflat-leafparsleyor greenonionforgarnish(optional)

„ Hotsauceforserving Jezebel-MapleSyrup

„ 2cupsmaplesyrup

„ ¼cuppineapplepreserves

„ ¼cupapplejelly

„ 1½tablespoonspreparedhorseradish

„ ¾teaspoongroundblackpepper

„ ½teaspoonsalt

To make the syrup: In alarge microwave-safe glass measuring cup with pour spout (one holding at least 3 cups)orabowl,addthemaplesyrup,pineapplepreserves, applejelly,horseradish,pepper,andsalt;whisktocombine Microwavethemixtureonhighfor35seconds.(Youalso canheatitinasmallsaucepanonlowuntilthemixtureis warm.) Stir and taste,adjustingthe flavorifdesired. Set thesyrupaside

Placethetoastedwafflesonalargeservingplatter.Top each wafflewith apiece of chicken. Drizzlethe chicken-wafflebiteswithabout1teaspoonofthesyrup.Garnish withtheparsley,ifdesired,andservewiththeremaining syrupandhotsauce

Drainasparagusandsoakinicewater

Inlargebowl,mixdrainedasparagus,vegetableoil,salt andpepperuntilcombined.

Flour surface area. Using rolling pin, roll out pastry to 10-by-16-inch rectangle.Transfer pastrytoparchment-lined baking sheet. Prickpastrywithfork. Bake about 12 minutes,oruntil golden brown. Cool slightly on bakingsheet.

Inlargebowl,mixfontinacheese,gruyerecheese,shallot, egg yolks,milk, nutmeg and salt and pepper, to taste, untilcombined.Spreadcheeseoverpastry,leaving1inch aroundedges.Layasparagusovercheesemixture. Bake5minutes,oruntilcheesehasmelted. Sprinklelemonzestovertartandserve.

SayGoodbye to Basic Brunch ByCulinary.net

Thesameoldbrunchmenuweekafterweekcanbecome tiresomeanddull.It’sbland,boringandyourtastebudsget usedtothesameflavorsrepeatedly

It’s time to add something new to the table with fresh ingredientsandsimpleinstructionstoenhanceyourweekendspread.

Trythis recipe for an Easy Brunch Quiche that is sure to have your senses swirling withevery bite.Thisquiche islayeredwithmanytastesandavarietyofingredientsto giveitcrave-worthyflavor

To create this dish, startwith onepackage of broccoli and cheese then microwaveit for5 minutes until heated through.

Add12slicesofchoppedbacontoaskillet.Whilecooking,add ½ cup of green onions.Cook for 2minutes then add1cupofmushroomstotheskillet.Cookfor4minutes anddrainthegrease In asmall mixing bowl,combine four eggs and 1cup of milk. Whisk together. Addegg mixturetothe broccoli andcheese.Alsoadd1cupofshreddedcheeseandstirthe ingredientstogether

In twoseparate pie shells,spoon in the bacon mixture then pour the egg andbroccoli mixtures overthe top Sprinkle with alittle morecheese then bakefor 35-45 minutesat350F.

Witharangeofingredientsfrombroccolitobacon,this quicheisabrunchhero.Whilebaking,thecheesegetsall melty,andwitheverybitethemushroomsaddtextureand earthyflavor.The ingredients combine together to make somethingwarm,heartyandfresh. Find more brunchrecipes andcookingideas at Culinary.net.

EasyBrunchQuiche

Serves: 12

„ 1package(10ounces)frozenbroccoliwithcheese

„ 12slicesbacon,chopped „ ½cupgreenonions,sliced

„ 1cupmushrooms,sliced

„ 4eggs

„ 1cupmilk

„ 1½cupsshreddedcheese,divided

„ 2frozendeepdishpieshells(9incheseach)

Heatovento350F.

Inmediumbowl,addbroccoliandcheesecontentsfrom package.Microwave5minutes,oruntil cheeseissaucy Setaside In skillet, cook choppedbacon 4minutes.Add green onions;cook2minutes.Addmushrooms;cook4minutes, or until bacon is completelycooked and mushrooms are tender.Drainontopapertoweloverplate.Setaside In medium bowl, whisk eggs and milk until combined. Addbroccoli and cheese mixture. Add1cup cheese.Stir tocombine.Setaside In pie shells, divide drained bacon mixtureevenly Divide broccoli mixtureevenly and pour overbacon mixture.Sprinkleremainingcheeseoverbothpies Bake40minutes. Allowtocoolatleast12minutesbeforeserving

Note: To keep edges of crustfromburning,place aluminumfoiloverpiesforfirst20minutesofcooktime

Remove after 20 minutes and allowtocook uncovered untilcompleted

ASeasonal Spring Surprise

ByCulinary.net

Youcan almostfeel spring in the air,and with the warmerweathercomesdelicious,delectablefoods.From casseroles to fresh fruits andwholesome vegetables,a change of season offerssomething to look forward to for nearlyeveryfoodie Aspring dish that is suretoimpressisthis Cheesy

Asparagus Tart. It has melty cheese,cooked asparagus and an underlayer of puff pastry baked to goldenbrown perfection. Startbycooking your asparagusonthe stovetop in 5 cups of water for 5-8minutes. Thensoakitinanice bath untilcooled.Transfertoa mixing bowl to addvegetable oil,saltandpepperfortasty,seasonedveggies. Nowit’stimetowork with your puff pastry. Sprinkle some flour on aflat countertop.Roll out thethawedpuff pastrytoa16-by-10-inchrectangle.Movetoalinedbaking sheet and prick with afork to create athin, flaky texture. Bakearound12minutesandcool. The final steps: mixthe cheeses,shallots,egg yolks nutmeg,salt and pepper. Spread this mixtureacross the pastryandlayasparagusoverthetop.Bake5moreminutes Foralittleextraflavor,addlemonzestoverthetart This tart is aperfect appetizer beforeSundaybrunch ortocutupandtakeoutsideforsomealfrescodiningthis spring It’sgotgooey,meltedcheeses,isseasonedwellandhas hearty asparagus on top.Plus,it’sayummyway to add vegetablestoyourkids’diet(andyours,too) FindmorespringrecipesanddiningideasatCulinary.net.

CheesyAsparagusTart

Servings: 8-10

„ 5cupswater

„ 1poundasparagus

„ icewater

„ 2teaspoonsvegetableoil

„ ¼teaspoonsalt,plusadditional,totaste,divided

„ ¼teaspoonpepper,plusadditional,totaste,divided flour,fordusting

„ 1sheetfrozenpuffpastry,thawed

„ 1cupgratedfontinacheese

„ 1cupgratedgruyerecheese

„ 1tablespoonshallot,minced

„ 2eggyolks

„ 3tablespoonsmilk

„ ¼teaspoonnutmeg

„ 1lemon,zestonly Heatovento400F. In largeskillet, addwaterand asparagus.Cook5-8 minutesuntilasparagusisbrightgreen.

TRICARE covers well-child care to help keep kids healthy from day one

By TRICARE Communications

FALLS CHURCH, Va Taking care of your child’s health starts early—and regular checkups can make a big difference TRICAREcoverswell-childcareforchildren frombirthuptotheageof6,helpingfamilies keeptheirkidshealthyastheygrow

Well-childcareincludesroutinenewborn care, health supervision examinations, routine immunizations, periodic health screening,anddevelopmentalassessment

“Well-childvisitsarecoveredatnocostto ensure that children can get this important care,”saidJeanninePickrell,MS,RN,director Population Health TRICARE Health Plan, at the Defense Health Agency “These visitsareoneoftheeasiestwaystotrackyour child’sgrowthanddevelopment.”

Well-child visits are preventive care. Thatmeanstheycanhelpstophealthproblems before they start These services are providedatnocosttoyouiffollowtherules of your TRICARE health plan. (This means TRICARE Prime enrollees must get these services from their primary care manager. TRICARE Select enrollees may get these servicesfromanyappropriateTRICARE-authorizedprovider.)

What happens at a wellchild visit?

During these visits your child’s provider checkshowyourchildisgrowinganddeveloping This includes measuring height and weight, checking hearing and vision, and watchingforimportantmilestoneslikemovementandspeech.Dependingonyourchild’s age,theymayalsoconducttestslikeurinalysis, bloodpressurescreening,orbloodleadtesting

Providersalsoofferguidanceforparents includingadviceonnutrition,feeding,sleep, andsafety

A regular schedule matters

For newborns, care starts right away Babiesgettheirfirstcheckupsbeforeleaving thehospital,andparentsshouldschedulethe nextvisitsoonafter Newborncareincludes services like vision and hearing screenings, heightandweightmeasurements,andmore. Well-childvisitshappenoftenintheearly years In the first year, babies are typically seen at 2—4 weeks and then at 2, 4, 6, 9, and 12months Visitscontinueat15,18,24,and30

months,andthenonceayearstartingatage 3. These visits help providers track growth anddevelopment,catchconcernsearly,and answerparents’questionsalongtheway.

Staying on track with vaccines

Immunizations are an important part of well-child care. TRICARE covers age-appropriatedosesofvaccines,asrecommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, helping protect children from seriousdiseases Children begin getting vaccines at birth, andmanyaregivenduringthefirsttwoyears

of life Your child’s provider will help you followtherightscheduleandstayuptodate

Where to go and how to make an appointment

Yourchild’spediatricianorfamilydoctor will usually conduct well-child visits If you have TRICARE Prime, your child will see their primary care manager. This may be a provider at a military hospital or clinic or a civilian provider If you have TRICARE Select,youcanchooseyourchild’sprovider from among appropriate TRICARE-authorizedproviders Tomakeanappointment,callyourchild’s

provideroryourmilitaryhospitalorclinic.

A healthy start for life

From newborn care to early childhood checkups, well-child visits are key to your child’s health. These no-cost preventive servicesgivefamiliesthesupporttheyneed during the most important years of growth. Tolearnmore visitWell-ChildCare(online athttps://tricare.mil/CoveredServices/IsItCovered/WellChildCare). Would you like the latest TRICARE news sent to you by email? Visit TRICARE Subscriptions to get benefit updates, news, andmore.