Issuu

IN THIS ISSUE

Bataan survivor’s legacy ﬂies 81 years later

This historic flag was a key piece of a special flag-raising ceremony to celebrate the 81st anniversary of Victory over Japan Day, also known as V-J Day. The last time this flag flew for its nation was on the original V-J Day over the prison camps holding the survivors of the Bataan Death March. Page A4

Code 900F.31 Electrical Engineering Technician LaNell Lawrence prepares a high-voltage shore power cable plug on Pier 5. Lawrence and his six-person team conducted rigorous inspections and coordinated transformer testing to ensure the pier’s electrical grid can successfully deliver the 13.8 kilovolts of power required by CVN 78, marking the ﬁrst time this high-voltage system has been energized at the pier for a naval vessel. (PHOTO BY SHELBY WEST, NORFOLK NAVAL SHIPYARD)

NNSY teams prepare Pier 5 for historic ﬁrst visit from USS Gerald R. Ford By Troy Miller NORFOLK NAVAL SHIPYARD

For the first time in its storied history, Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) had to prepare to welcome the USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) for its first Planned Incremental Availability. The arrival of the Navy’s newest class of aircraft carrier marks a significant milestone for the shipyard, requiring extensive preparations to ensure the pier and its supporting infrastructure were ready to

support the modern warship. Two key teams from the Production Facilities Department (Code 900F) have been at the forefront of this effort: the Temporary Facilities Branch (Code 900F.14) and the waterfront utilities experts of Code 900F.31. Leading up to Ford’s arrival, these teams have been laser-focused on a complete rehabilitation of Pier 5. Troy Leinart, the supervisor for Code 900F.14, has been leading his nine-person team through a total pier-side remodel of the

temporary office and workspaces. “Basically, what we do is we come in after every project and we completely rehab and remodel the units to get it back up to the standard for the next project,” Leinart explained. “New engineered drawings for the setups to meet what each individual code needs, ﬂoor polishing, ﬂoor repair, leak repair… any type of facility repair to get it back up to the shipyard standard.” For Leinart, the arrival of a new ship class required immense strategic planning to over-

come challenges posed by aging infrastructure and the need for specialized parts. “It’s a hectic time,” he admitted. “It usually doesn’t stopuntilwegeteverypersonnelintheirlocation settled in.” While Leinart’s team focused on the physical workspaces, LaNell Lawrence’s team was tackling the pier’s power and utility grid. As an Electrical Engineering Technician in Code 900F.31, Lawrence was tasked with a critiSee PIER 5 on Page A2

NAVSTA Norfolk Sailors volunteer at Norfolk Public Schools for ‘Servicing Our Schools’ cleanup event By Operations Specialist 2nd Class Clayton James

NORFOLK, Va. — Naval Station (NAVSTA) Norfolk Sailors volunteered to help clean and organize schools in the Norfolk Public Schools (NPS) district for the “Servicing Our Schools” event to prepare schools for the fall semester. At Tarrallton Elementary School, 13 Sailors volunteered six hours of their time each to assist teachers and staff with cleanup across the school. Lindsay Adams, NAVSTA Norfolk School Liaison, and Tiffany Whitﬁeld, Senior Director of Communications and Community Engagement for NPS, organized and coordinated the event for this location as well as ﬁve other locations: Sewells Point Elementary, Camp Allen Elementary, Little Creek Elementary, Ingleside Elementary, and Camp Young Elementary. “We aim to keep this partnership and conduct this event annually in preparation of our local schools start of a new school year. These schools teach our military children,” said Lindsay Adams. Sailors arrived at 9am at their chosen schools in their Navy physical training uniforms, ready to execute preparation for the upcoming school year. The tasks given to the volunteers included moving chairs and books, changing light bulbs, cleaning the halls, pulling weeds, and cleaning the windows. “It’s always a good change of pace to get off base and do something nice for the kids,” said Retail Specialist 1st Class, Ebony Henderson, a volunteer. Working through the afternoon, the Sailors completed all assigned tasks which concluded a successful volunteer opportunity. The work the NAVSTA Norfolk Sailors provided during the “Servicing Our Schools” event will allow these six schools to open on a high note during this fall semester with clean buildings and organized supplies. With the success of the event, See SCHOOLS on Page A2

NORFOLK, Virginia (August 06, 2026) – Religious Specialist 2nd Class Jasmine Kohn cleans the entranceways at Tarrallton Elementary School. Naval Station Norfolk Sailors participated in the “Servicing Our Schools” volunteer event in collaboration with Norfolk Public Schools to prepare for students returning to school in the fall semester. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY OPERATIONS SPECIALIST SECOND CLASS CLAYTON JAMES)

Service Khaki slacks with back pockets now available to female Sailors Page C6

THE FLAGSHIP’S FREE HOME DELIVERY

SOUTH HAMPTON ROADS: Get the convenience of your Navy newspaper delivered to your door for free!

Page A2

CALL TODAY! 757.446.9000

ﬂagshipnews.com | Section A | Thursday, August 20, 2026

Service Khaki slacks with back pockets now available to female Sailors Courtesy Story NAVY EXCHANGE SERVICE COMMAND

Based on Sailor feedback, female Sailors can now purchase newly designed Service Khaki slacks with back pockets and modern fit sizing. Slacks will be available for purchase or try-on at NEX Norfolk, NEX Oceana and NEX Arlington, Virginia; NEX Great Lakes, Illinois; NEX Jacksonville and NEX Pensacola, Aviation Plaza, Florida; NEX San Diego; NEX Kitsap-Bangor, Washington; NEX Pearl Harbor, Hawaii; and NEX Bethesda, Maryland, as well as online at myNavyExchange. com. “This is the first pair of slacks being introduced to the fleet using our new modernized sizing,” said Dr. Brianna Plummer, Group Leader at the Navy Exchange Service Command’s Navy Clothing & Textile Research Facility. “We’ve already introduced two optional items - the Summer and Dress White female overblouses in both shortsleeve and long-sleeve in the new modernized fit sizing, which are annotated as fit types ‘Alpha,’ ‘Bravo’ and ‘Delta.’ The legacy and modernized fit sizing do not correlate; so, it is best for a Sailor to use the available charts to capture accuracy with their ‘new’ fit types. Uniformswithmodernizedfitsizingwillhave the same consistent size across all tops and all bottoms. Sailors can get the right fit each time with the goal of needing fewer alterations.” The Service Khaki slacks are made of 75% polyester and 25% wool fabric and feature two back welt pockets. Sailors can find their proper size and fit by using the modernized sizing and fit charts available in NEX Uniform Shops and on myNavyExchange.com. “It is our charge to ensure Sailors are fit for

PIER 5

from Page A1

cal, ﬁrst-time evolution: ensuring Pier 5 could deliver the 13.8 kilovolts of electrical power the Ford requires. “This is the Ford’s ﬁrst time here, so we never had 13.8 energized here before being connected to a naval vessel,” said Lawrence. “Our primary job is to ensure all the utilities for the waterfront are up to par.” Starting 120 days before the ship’s arrival, Lawrence and his six-person crew began a systematic inspection of the pier’s infrastructure. They coordinated with Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command (NAVFAC) to have the pier’s massive electrical transformers tested to handle the higher voltage. When funding issues arose, Lawrence’s team was prepared to secure the necessary money through Portfolio Acquisition Executive for Industrial Operations (PAE-IO) to keep the testing on schedule. “When the boat comes in for its availability, all those services have to be available,”

the fight, that means they are equipped with uniforms that fit correctly, are of a quality that performs, and represent professionalism in all tasks,” said Rear Adm. Jennifer Couture, former Director, Military Personnel Plans and Policy (N13). “Modernizing the Service Khaki slacks is a direct result of listening to our Sailors, it’s a tangible example of how we’re modernizing uniforms to fit the needs of Sailors today and strengthen readiness across the fleet.” Currently, NCTRF is focusing on modernizing the size and fit of female uniforms. In the coming years, male uniform sizes will also be evaluated and updated.

A female Sailor wears the Navy’s new Service Khaki slacks featuring back pockets. Designed using the modernized sizing system developed by the Navy Exchange Service Command’s Navy Clothing & Textile Research Facility and informed by Sailor feedback, the slacks feature two back welt pockets and are designed to provide a more consistent fit while reducing the need for alterations. NEXCOM enables warfighter readiness and strengthens the Navy’s quality of life mission. Providing essential products, services, hospitality and outfitting Navy communities around the globe, NEXCOM is continuously evolving to meet the demands of today’s military operational environment. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY JOSIE ANDERSON/RELEASED)

Lawrence emphasized. “If it’s not available, we can’t do our work, and it makes the availability much harder to complete.” For Lawrence, a Navy veteran who has been working with shore power since 1988, this project was more than just another task. “It was gratifying to me to be involved in it because this is what I love to do,” he said. “The electrical side of the house, to get involved, especially with the shore power… this is what I was born to do. This is what gets me coming to work every day.” That sense of shared purpose and teamwork was echoed by Leinart, who noted the necessity of collaboration between the different shops. “We have to work as a team because we have to work around each other to support what each individual code has,” he said. Thanks to the diligent and proactive efforts of these small, dedicated teams, Pier 5 now stands ready to support the Navy’s most advanced aircraft carrier, ensuring that America’s Shipyard can continue to service the ﬂeet and deliver unparalleled warﬁghting capability for the nation

The Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) Code 900F.14 Temporary Facilities team at Pier 5 after completing a total rehabilitation of the project trailers. The nine-person team completely deep-cleaned, remodeled, and conﬁgured the spaces to ensure they meet shipyard standards for the USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) project team. (PHOTO BY SHELBY WEST, NORFOLK NAVAL SHIPYARD)

SCHOOLS

from Page A1

NAVSTA Norfolk and NPS plan on continuing to do this event in the coming years as well as conduct other events throughout the year.

NORFOLK, Virginia (August 06, 2026) – Naval Station Norfolk Sailors pose with Tarrallton Elementary School’s Guidance Counselor Lynda Reid after volunteering for cleanup efforts. Naval Station Norfolk Sailors participated in the “Servicing Our Schools” volunteer event in collaboration with Norfolk Public Schools to prepare for students returning to school in the fall semester. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY OPERATIONS SPECIALIST SECOND CLASS

NORFOLK, Virginia (August 06, 2026) – Airman Michael Naanmiap assists with removing dead weeds to help improve the appearance of Tarrallton Elementary School for the upcoming school year. Naval Station Norfolk Sailors participated in the “Servicing Our Schools” volunteer event in collaboration with Norfolk Public Schools to prepare for students returning to school in the fall semester. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY OPERATIONS SPECIALIST

CLAYTON JAMES)

SECOND CLASS CLAYTON JAMES)

Commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic (CNRMA): Rear Adm. Stephen Barnett Regional program manager for Navy Region Mid-Atlantic (NRMA): Public Affairs Director | Beth Baker Public Affairs Deputy Director | Leon Moore

Editorial Staff

Managing Editor | PO1 Cody D. Beam 757-322-2853 | cody.d.beam.mil@us.navy.mil Graphic Designer | Teresa Walter teresa.walter@virginiamedia.com

Contributing Staff

Elizabeth Reisen 757-322-2853 | news@ﬂagshipnews.com

Flagship, Inc.

Military General Manager | Ski Miller ski.miller@virginiamedia.com

The Flagship® is published by Flagship, LLC., a private firm in no way connected with the Department of Defense (DOD) or the United States Navy, under exclusive written contract with Commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic. This civilian enterprise newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services. Contents of the paper, including advertisements, are not necessarily the official views of, nor endorsed by, the U.S. Government, DOD, or the Department of the Navy (DON). The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts and supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the DOD; DON; Commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic or Flagship, LLC. of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use, or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user, or patron. If a violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser is confirmed, the publisher shall refuse to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected. Editorial content is edited, prepared and provided by the Public Affairs Department of Commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic. Stories may be submitted via email to news@flagshipnews.com. The Flagship® is published every Thursday by Flagship, LLC., whose offices are located at 804 Greenbrier Circle, Suite C, Chesapeake, VA 23320.

ﬂagshipnews.com | Section A | Thursday, August 20, 2026

South Potomac Command Assembly honors members By Andrew Revelos NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY SOUTH POTOMAC

Naval Support Activity South Potomac (NSASP) held its third Command Assembly on Aug. 13 at Naval Support Facility (NSF) Dahlgren to honor its high-performing civilian employees and Sailors. “Thank you and congratulations,” said Capt. John Nadder, commanding officer, who noted the value of command members taking the time to get together. “While you may be assigned to a specific base, we all come together under South Potomac—and that teamwork is very much appreciated. From our first all-hands, we asked how we could grow communication and show that South Potomac is one team. The mission of South Potomac is vital in preparing for operations overseas, and our tenant commands continually evaluate and improve readiness to strengthen those missions.” First to be recognized was Gunner’s Mate 1st Class Daniel Steadman, who was selected as NSASP’s Senior Sailor of the Semester, first semester 2026. Steadman “distinguished himself through outstanding performance and dedication to NSA South Potomac,” according to the citation. “As [leading petty officer], he led 15 junior Sailors in daily operations, supporting two naval facilities.” Steadman additionally serves as the command’s sole armorer. Boatswain’s Mate 2nd Class Michael Brown was selected as the command’s Junior Sailor of the Semester. Brown “contributed greatly to NSA South Potomac,” according to the citation. “He executed zone inspections and collaborated with different departments in identifying and tracking discrepancies, initiating corrective actions and contributing to facility preservation and operational readiness.” Brown also serves as the command’s sole boatswain’s mate, supporting honors and ceremonies across NSASP installations. Levi Blake, explosives safety officer for NSASP, received the Civilian Service Commendation Medal for his support of critical Navy operations at home and abroad. “Volunteering for a short notice critical mission vital to Department of War objectives, Mr. Blake selflessly deployed overseas in support of ongoing U.S. Navy Fifth and Sixth Fleet areas of responsibility operations,” according to the citation. “Demonstrating exceptional leadership, he directly supported the success of 80 combat missions through the meticulous implementation of processes that significantly strengthened the unit’s safety posture and procedures that enabled sustainable, round-the-clock flight line operations.” Lisa Geary, MWR, was selected as the command’s Junior Civilian of the Quarter for NSF Dahlgren, second quarter 2026. Geary enhanced services at Craftech, supported MWR summer camp, and “seamlessly took

Naval Support Activity South Potomac (NSASP) held a command assembly Aug. 13 at Naval Support Facility (NSF) Dahlgren, where leaders honored its high-performing Sailors and civilians employees, and said goodbye to longtime Executive Officer Cmdr. Robert Lusk Jr., who retires next month. From left to right, Lusk, Command Master Chief Jorge Reyes-Velez, Levi Blake, Lisa Geary, BM2 Michael Brown, Stephanie Jones, Steve Williams, GM1 Daniel Steadman, Lt. Brandon Stocks, Cpl. Trevor Drummond, and Commanding Officer Capt. John Nadder. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY CS2 CARLY MCGUFFEY)

on all managerial responsibilities in addition to her daily operational duties,” according to the citation. “Her remarkable ‘can-do’ attitude directly resulted in Craftech exceeding its projected profits, a 75 percent reduction in inventory audit times, and a flawless 100 percent accuracy rating during the latest internal review.” Cpl. Trevor Drummond, NSASP Police, was selected as the command’s Junior Civilian of the Quarter for NSF Indian Head. Drummond “executed flawless incident response” during a number of Security Forces operations. “Beyond his tactical excellence, Cpl. Drummond is a dedicated mentor,” according to the citation. “Through his proactive community policing, including regular presenceatbasehousingandtheChildDevelopment Center, he has significantly elevated the safety and quality of life for our service members and their families.” Steve Williams, real property accountable officer, was selected as NSASP’s Senior CivilianoftheQuarterforNSFDahlgren.Williams “successfully delivered the [fiscal year 2026] Installation Commander’s Certification Package and cleared and critical backlog of… documentation, directly securing accurate asset accounting and protecting future sustainment funding,” according to the citation. “Furthermore, Mr. Williams demonstrated exceptional initiative by leading the complex

stormwater asset capitalization effort, coordinating across multiple echelons to ensure the Public Works team was highly effective.” Brian Davis, physical security specialist, was selected as NSA South Potomac’s Senior Civilian of the Quarter for NSF Indian Head. Davisisa“trueteamplayer”whosehardwork positively impacted multiple areas of responsibility within the Security Department. “His selfless commitment was especially evident during [Final Evaluation Problem security drills], where he worked extended hours to guarantee immediate support for any emerging issues,” according to the citation. Stephanie Jones, Public Works Department, was selected as the command’s Civilian Supervisor of the Quarter for NSF Dahlgren. Jones “served as a guiding force” for sustainment operations, the[fiscal year 2027] maintenance execution plan and the department’s realignment to NSASP. “Her meticulous financial stewardship optimized our sustainment budgets, while her successful implementation of the new NAVFAC work acceptance board process significantly modernized our team’s workflows,” according to the citation. Lt.BrandonStocks,NSASPPolice,received a Certificate of Achievement for his “exceptional” leadership as a squad supervisor. “His extraordinary mentorship and rigorous, scenario-based training directly prepared his

squad for [Final Evaluation Problem security drills],” according to the citation. “Furthermore, his proactive leadership at installation access control points resulted in zero security breaches, directly sustaining Dahlgren’s critical research and testing missions.” NSASP departmental leaders presented members of the command with a range of updates — MWR events, a safety brief, a message from Chaplain Joseph Jones, and resources update from the Fleet and Family Support Center. Finally, the command said goodbye to Cmdr. Robert Lusk Jr., who retires next month. “Tomorrow will be my last day, and then I’ll go on terminal and effectively retire from the Navy on 1 October,” Lusk said. Looking back on nearly three decades of service, he noted, “Twenty-nine years in the Navy is a long time, and I’ve done this job almost seven years—over 25 percent of my career has been at South Potomac. You’re my family, so it’s going to be tough for me to leave. Pride and ownership—that’s what we do at South Potomac. Please take pride in your workspace, take ownership inside and outside the fence line. It’s been an honor serving everybody.” Congratulations to all who were recognized. [Editor’s Note: CS2 Carly McGuffey contributed to this article.]

BUY 1 WINDOW OR DOOR, GET 1 WINDOW OR DOOR

50% OFF

FREE

SMARTSUN™ * GLASS UPGRADE Gerry Rogers, Founder/President

PAY NOTHING FOR 18 MONTHS** Interest accrues from purchase date but is waived if paid in full within 18 months.

Some offers seem too good to be true. This isn’t one of them. For a very limited time we’re offering this 50% OFF* BOGO discount, FREE SmartSun™ glass upgrade* and special ** Hurry! book yours before AUGUST 31st. CALL OR SCAN CODE TO SCHEDULE YOUR FREE IN-HOME CONSULTATION

(757) 353-4862 VAWindowDeal.com

*Offer expires 8/31/26. Discount good with the purchase of six or more windows or doors. Buy three windows and/or doors, get the second set of three windows or doors of equal or lesser value, 50% off. Discount applied to lowest priced units in purchase. Cannot be combined with other offers or prior purchases. Promotional offer available without financing option. **Subject to credit approval. 18-month Promo Period when no payments are due and interest accrues but is waived if balance is paid in full before Promo Period expires. Any unpaid balance owed after Promo Period plus accrued interest will be paid in installments based on terms disclosed in the financing agreement. Financing is provided by various financial institutions without regard to age, race, color, religion, national origin, gender, or familial status. “Renewal by Andersen” and all other marks where denoted are marks of Andersen Corporation. © 2026 Andersen Corporation. All rights reserved.

ﬂagshipnews.com | Section A | Thursday, August 20, 2026

From left, Capt. Rodolfo Jacobo, commanding officer of the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5), speaks during a ceremony to commemorate the 81st anniversary of V-J Day while Command Master Chief Petty Officer Charles Eakley, and Cmdr. Kaelan Clay, Navy chaplain, stand nearby on the bow of the ship, Aug. 15, 2026. A 48-star flag made in Japan by American POWs who survived the Bataan Death March flies overhead for the first time since 1945. Bataan is currently undergoing regularly scheduled maintenance in the General Dynamics National Steel and Shipbuilding Company (NASSCO) shipyard in Norfolk, Virginia. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY MASS COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST SEAMAN APPRENTICE JACKSON C. ROTT)

Bataan survivor’s legacy ﬂies 81 years later By Seaman Apprentice Renata Gonzalez USS BATAAN (LHD 5)

On the bow of the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5), the sun settled over the ship and the Norfolk Waterfront as the crowd of Sailors gathered for a special visitor Aug. 15, 2026. Abel Ortega Jr., carried it tight in his arms, as he navigated the foreign p-ways of its name-sake ship. With careful handling, the current new and clean Union Jack was lowered from its spot on the jackstaff and replaced with a flag of more sentimental value, an American flag so old that its red, white and blue colors have faded, a flag that hasn’t felt the wind lift it since 1945. Its creator, Ortega Jr’s father, lives on only in memory, This historic flag was a key piece of a special flag-raising ceremony to celebrate the 81st anniversary of Victory over Japan Day, also known as V-J Day. The last time this flag flew for its nation was on the original V-J Day over the prison camps holding the survivors of the Bataan Death March. “We have a responsibility to carry on their legacy, to never forget,” said Capt. Rodolfo Jacobo, the commanding officer of USS Bataan. In 2004, Abel Ortega, with the help of his son Abel Ortega Jr., released a book telling the story of his time as a prisoner of war in the Philippines and Japan, as well as being a part of the Bataan Death March. Three and a half years of his life was held hostage by a war. Three and a half years ended with the raising of a handmade American flag in the middle of a Japanese labor camp. “When they were raising the flag at the camp, they all cried. All the POWs cried because the war was over, but they also cried for all their fellow soldiers they lost on the Death March, the Hell-Ships, and the prison camps,” said Ortega Jr. “That flag was raised for them. For all those that were lost, defending Bataan.” Ortega talked about the flag in the last chapter of the book, and in 2014, five years after Ortega’s death, his son received a call from a woman named Joyce in California. “She called me and said, hey, I came across your book, and the last chapter, where your dad talks about the Camp Mai-bara, and the flag. Well, my dad was the one who drew the straw, and I have the flag,” said Ortega Jr. In 2023, Joyce brought the flag from California to Austin, Texas, to allow Ortega Jr. and his family the opportunity to see the history that his father had been a part of. “Dad had wondered where it had been for all of these years,” said Ortega Jr. He told Joyce of the fears his father had, if the flag had been burned or lost and the longing to see it again. Joyce, who had been planning since 2014 to return the flag to his family, told Ortega Jr., “Well, your dad didn’t have to wonder anymore, because the flag is yours, that’s why I brought it”. In March of 1941, Private Abel Ortega was drafted into the United States Army to fight in World War II. He was one of six Ortega boys that were drafted. After graduating basic training, he was assigned to the 753rd Tank Battalion. While he was stationed at Camp Polk, his command received orders that the 192nd Tank Battalion was to be sent to the Philippines to help train their army. Being a few people short, the Battalion asked for volunteers to fill the spots, and Pvt. Ortega was the first to step up, said Ortega Jr. “They arrived in the Philippines on Thanksgiving Day of 1941, and a few days later, Pearl Harbor was bombed. They were still cleaning all the equipment, still checking out all the tanks and half-tracks and getting stuff ready. They’d only been there about two weeks when the war broke out,” said Ortega Jr. After the attack on Pearl Harbor, Ortega and his battalion fought the Japanese from December 8, 1941 to April 9, 1942 but eventually their resources and strength ran out and forced them to surrender. Approximately 75,000 American and Pilipino POWs started that Death March. The first segment entailed a 65-mile march that lasted between 5 to 10 days for some groups. After, they were loaded onto a train, a little box car, that took them about 25 miles, where they were dropped off and made to march about another 10 miles. Out of the 75,000, only about 65,000 reached the first camp. An estimated 10,000 POWs, 500 to 650 Americans and 5,000 to 18,000 Filipino, died on the march. “They were shot, bayoneted, they were decapitated, left on the side of the road, run over by the Japanese trucks,” said Ortega Jr. Ortega avoided death by moving smartly through the groups, migrating towards the inside of the columns they were forced to march in to avoid the slashing or bayoneting from the mounted Japanese soldiers. “Once you fell you couldn’t get up. Nobody could pick you

up because the line was moving,” said Ortega Jr. “If you had stopped to help somebody, then you were shot or killed.” Through his smart survival techniques, Ortega arrived at Camp O’Donnell somewhat on the healthier side, so he was placed on a burial detail. Because those POWs were dying about 100 a day at the prison camp, he would have to carry them over to a mass grave where he would bury them. “Dad always said he took the dog tags off of them. If they had dog tags, and put them in their mouths before he buried them,” said Ortega Jr. Eventually the bodies piled too high and Camp O’Donnell was closed. Ortega and the other POWs were moved to another camp, Cabanatuan. When he got there, Ortega found a way to be on work details again, trying to spend as much time away from the disease riddled camp. Over the next three years he moved from camp to camp, spending anywhere between a few months to a year at each. Ortega had gone through 7 prison camps before the war ended, he went from Camp O’Donnell, to Cabanatuan, to Camp Murphy, to Lipa Batangas, to Camp Toroku in Formosa, to Camp Wakinohama, in Japan, and then Maibara, in Japan. Then the United States dropped two atomic bombs on Japan. The first one on Hiroshima on August 6, 1945. The second one on Nagasaki August 9, 1945. Six days later on August 15, 1945, Japan signed their formal surrender, marking the day as Victory Over Japan Day, V-J Day. “Soon after Japan surrendered, they gave the American command all the different coordinates for all the prison camps. Once they were located, they loaded up B-29 bombers with 55-gallon drums of food, medicine, clothing, supplies and things to drop at the POW camps.” said Ortega Jr. The barrels ﬂoated down from the sky, their relief carried down with red, white, blue, and green parachutes. In the midst of the celebration an officer also in the prison camp with Ortega came to him with a request, he told him to go to the POWs of each country, American, British, Australian,

ABOVE: Capt. Rodolfo Jacobo, commanding officer of the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5), passes a flag to Abel Ortega Jr., son of Battle of Bataan, Bataan Death March, and Japanese POW camp survivor U.S. Army Pvt. Abel Ortega Sr., during a ceremony to commemorate the 81st anniversary of V-J Day, Aug 15, 2026. The flag was made in Japan in 1945 by Abel Ortega Sr. out of parachute silk when the POW camp he was held in was liberated. BELOW: From left, Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Terrance Little, Hospital Corpsman 2nd Marquis Taylor and Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Burton Allen, Sailors assigned to the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5), fold a 48-star flag made of parachute silk in 1945 by American POWs in Japan who survived the Bataan Death March, Aug 15, 2026. The flag was flown on the ship as part of a ceremony to commemorate the 81st anniversary of V-J Day. Bataan is currently undergoing regularly scheduled maintenance in the General Dynamics National Steel and Shipbuilding Company (NASSCO) shipyard in Norfolk, Virginia. (U.S. NAVY PHOTOS BY MASS COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST SEAMAN APPRENTICE JACKSON C. ROTT)

and Dutch, draw their flags, what color goes where, and get all this parachute material and make some flags. Three and a half years of pain, torture and fear. Three and a half years ended with freedom. Three days later, the freed POWs tied the flags to bamboo poles and raised them at the front gates to their POW camp, telling everyone that the Japanese no longer had control over them.

ﬂagshipnews.com | Section A | Thursday, August 20, 2026

MCPON leads CNO-mandated Enlisted Readiness Council Courtesy Story OFFICE OF THE MASTER CHIEF PETTY OFFICER OF THE NAVY

Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) John Perryman led the inaugural Enlisted Readiness Council (ERC) Aug. 10-12, bringing together 30 senior enlisted leaders to identify systemic barriers to readiness and develop actionable recommendations for Navy leadership. Established by Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Daryl Caudle, the ERC creates a direct connection between senior enlisted leaders across the Fleet and the Navy’s highest levels of decision-making. The ERC included senior enlisted leaders representing operational forces, personnel and training organizations, shore support activities, and medical and family readiness organizations. Members were organized into three major committees: Executive Committee, Type Command Committee, and Fleet Committee. Issues identified by the council will be aligned to the appropriate committee for further assessment and action. “The CNO and I spend a lot of time traveling the Fleet, talking with Sailors and their families about the things that make it harder to do their jobs, take care of their families and stay focused on the mission,” said Perryman. “Part of our responsibility as senior enlisted leaders is taking what we’re hearing, figuring out where we can make a difference and getting those issues in front of the people who can help us solve them.” Throughout the three-day council, members received guidance from the CNO, briefs from Capt. Charles Harmon, Enlisted Plans and Policy branch head, and Vice Adm. Scott Gray, commander, Navy installations Command, and received a Command Senior Enlisted Leader (CSEL) program update. Harmon provided updates on enlisted personnel policies and initiatives, including Senior Enlisted Marketplace and BilletBased Advancement, while Gray addressed shore readiness and installation programs and services that support Sailors, families and Fleet operations. The discussions gave council members an opportunity to examine Fleet-raised issues alongside the leaders responsible for many of the policies, programs and resources that shape a Sailor’s service. Members worked through issue papers submitted from across the Fleet, examined potential barriers to change and identified issues requiring continued action through the ERC. As council chair, Perryman, challenged members to use their experience and positions of influence to move beyond identifying problems and help drive solutions. “We know where some of the friction is because Sailors are telling us and our job is to do something with that information,” said Perryman. “That means asking hard questions, challenging processes that aren’t working and bringing forward solutions that can improve readiness and the way our

Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Daryl Caudle provides opening remarks to the inaugural Enlisted Readiness Council, August 10, 2026. Established by CNO, the ERC, chaired by Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) John Perryman, creates a direct connection between senior enlisted leaders across the Fleet and the Navy’s highest levels of decision-making, and during the three-day conference, members received briefs and worked through issue papers submitted from across the Fleet. The council will meet regularly and provide readiness assessments, recommendations, and issue-focused analysis to the CNO for consideration. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY CHIEF MASS COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST ANNA E. VAN NUYS)

Sailors serve. That’s what the CNO expects from this council.” The council will meet regularly and provide readiness assessments, recommendations, and issue-focused analysis to the CNO for consideration, while issues requiring additional work will continue through the appropriate committee and tracked to ensure issues raised from the Fleet remain visible as decisions are made and actions move forward. Along with MCPON as chair of the Council, ERC membershipincludesCommandMasterChiefRichardJames,Deputy MCPON, as Co-Chair, and the following members: ERC EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE:

Force Master Chief Jerry Cantorna, Navy Bureau of Medicine and Surgery (BUMED) Force Master Chief Jay Westmoreland, Commander, Naval Surface Force Atlantic (COMNAVSURFLANT) Force Master Chief Chris Bean, Commander, Naval Submarine Force Atlantic (COMSUBLANT) Force Master Chief Keith Wilkerson, Commander, Naval Air Force Atlantic (COMNAVAIRLANT) Force Master Chief Larry Lynch, Commander, Naval Surface Force Pacific (COMNAVSURFPAC) Force Master Chief Aaron Lee, Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet (SUBPAC) Force Master Chief Dustin Kuers, Commander, Naval Air Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet (COMNAVAIRPAC) Force Master Chief Augustine Cooper, Commander, Naval Information Forces (COMNAVNAVIFOR) Force Master Chief Nicole Rios, Navy Reserve Force (COMNAVRESFOR)

Fleet Master Chief Jason Haka, United States Fleet Forces Command (COMUSFLTFORCM) Fleet Master Chief Don Davis, U.S. Paciﬁc Fleet (COMPACFLT) Fleet Master Chief Chris King, U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa (COMUSNAVEURNAVAF) Fleet Master Chief Jay Walker, Chief of Naval Personnel (CHNAVPERS) FLEET COMMITTEE: Fleet Master Chief Trenton Schmidt, Vice Chief of Naval Command Master Chief Jon Lonsdale, Commander, U.S. Operations (VCNO) 2nd Fleet (COMSECONDFLT) Command Master Chief Jerry Holler, Commander, U.S. TYPE COMMAND COMMITTEE: 3rd Fleet (COMTHIRDFLT) Force Master Chief Bill Houlihan, Navy Personnel Command Master Chief Bryan Davis , Commander, U.S. Command (COMNAVPERSCOM) 4th Fleet (COMFOURTHFLT) Force Master Chief Ben Hodges, Naval Education and Command Master Chief Jason Dunn, Commander, U.S. Training Command (NETC) 5th Feet (COMFIFTHFLEET) Force Master Chief Eric Neal, Navy Expeditionary Command Master Chief Kim Feroni, Commander, U.S. Combat Command (NECC) 6th Fleet (COMSIXTHFLT) Force Master Chief Andre Brown, Commander, Navy Command Master Chief Jeremy Douglas, Commander, Installations Command (CNIC) U.S. 7th Fleet (COMSEVENTHFLT) Force Master Chief Christian West, Naval Special Command Master Chief Brian Happli, Commander, Warfare Command (COMNAVSPECWARCOM) U.S.10th Fleet (COMTENTHFLT) Force Master Chief Kevin Nolan, Naval Command Master Chief Chris Bartley, Command Task Facilities Engineering Systems Command Force Eight Zero (CTF EIGHT ZERO) (COMNAVFACSYSCOM)

Home Bathroom Remodeling Done Right! HomeRemodeling Remodeling

FULL BATHROOM REMODELING • WALK-IN SHOWERS • BATHS • TUB TO SHOWER CONVERSION

Bathroom Remodeling Experts!

Free Install 18 Months

Highly Trained Employee Installers On-The-Spot Installation Scheduling Fully Licensed and Insured

Exclusive Designs & Styles Flexible Financing Subject to credit approval

Evening & Weekend Appointments Available

America’s Most Trusted Home Remodeler POWERED BY

4.8/5 4.9/5 4.8/5

294,546+ COMPLETED BATHROOM REMODELING JOBS

(Company reviews across all branches as of 7/01/2026)

ASK ABOUT OUR

MILITARY DISCOUNT

757-280-2257

New orders only. Offer not valid on previous sales or estimates and cannot be combined with other offers. See design consultant for details. Other restrictions may apply. 1. Free install is equal to 20% off the 1 year price. 2. Financing offers a 18-month deferred interest feature (the “promotional period”) on your purchase (at an APR of 13.99-23.99%, rates vary by state). Finance charges will accrue on your account during the promotional period, as set forth in your Truth in

ﬂagshipnews.com | Section A | Thursday, August 20, 2026

Naval District Washington holds change of command tenants, and residents in the Navy and the nation.” Bailey became NDW’s 95th commandant during the ceremony. “My vision for Naval District Washington is straightforward,” said Bailey. “We will treat every installation as a warfighting platform, every resource as a readiness investment, and every member of this team as a contributor to combatpower.”Baileywillalsoserveasdeputy commander of the Joint Force Headquarters-National Capital Region. Prior to reporting to NDW, Bailey’s previous assignment was deputy commander of U.S. Third Fleet. “The ability of our Navy to deploy, fight, sustain itself, recover, and fight again starts ashore,” said Bailey. “It starts with secure installations. Resilient infrastructure. Safe housing. Modern facilities. Protected networks. Capable emergency services. And people who know that the Navy values where they work, where they train, and where their families live. Readiness at sea is built ashore. And nowhere is that responsibility more consequential than here.” NDW is the regional provider of common operating support to naval installations in the National Capital Region. NDW is responsible for efficiently delivering these support services to more than 120 mission commands located within its geographical borders. NDW encompasses more than 4,000 square miles, including the District of Columbia; the Maryland counties of Anne Arundel, Calvert, Charles, Frederick, Montgomery, Prince George’s, and St. Mary’s; and northern Virginia counties of Loudoun, Fauquier, Fairfax, Prince William, Stafford, King George, Westmoreland, and Arlington, and the cities within their outer boundaries. The region includes such installations as Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Naval Support Activity (NSA) Annapolis, NSA Washington, NSA Bethesda, NSA South Potomac, and Naval Support Facility Thurmont.

By Petty Officer 2nd Class Kyree Rogers NAVAL DISTRICT WASHINGTON

WASHINGTON — Rear Adm. David J. Faehnle was relieved by Rear Adm. Suzanne M. Bailey as commandant, Naval District Washington (NDW) during a change of command ceremony at Washington Navy Yard’s Leutze Park, Aug. 12, 2026. “When I assumed command two years ago, I looked at the calendar, and I was excited about the opportunities,” said Faehnle. “I could predict to the entire team that our schedule would be busy, that we would be involved in historic events, and that we would have the opportunity to participate in some of the nation’s most inﬂuential moments. Your accomplishments have exceeded all my expectations.” Vice Adm. Scott Gray, commander, Navy Installations Command, was the guest speakerandpresidingofficer.Hecommended Faehnle for his accomplishments and steadfast leadership during his time in command and welcomed Bailey to the region. “Rear Admiral Dave Faehnle managed immense complexity while never losing sight of the people behind the mission, and he has truly moved this region forward,” said Gray. “We are excited to welcome Rear Adm. Suzanne Bailey, who understands both the operational Navy and how our installations make those operations possible.” Under Faehnle’s leadership, the region directed operations across six naval installations, providing strategic oversight and executive leadership to over 3,700 military and civilian personnel. He spearheaded complex logistical support for seven National Special Security Events including the 2024 North Atlantic Treaty Organization summit, the 60th Presidential Inauguration, and the state funeral of former President Jimmy Carter. Additionally, Faehnle directed critical life support and repatriation efforts for 1,451 non-combatant evacuees during Operation Epic Fury. “NDW is not about one leader,” said Faehnle. “It is a team - a family - of thousands of Sailors and civilians, active duty and reserve, that work hard every single day to provide security, infrastructure, and services to some of the highest proﬁle missions,

Rear Adm. David J. Faehnle was relieved by Rear Adm. Suzanne M. Bailey as commandant, Naval District Washington (NDW) during a change of command ceremony at Washington Navy Yard’s Leutze Park, Aug. 12, 2026. (PHOTO BY PETTY OFFICER 2ND CLASS KYREE ROGERS)

Navy Medical Service Corps celebrates 79 years of dedicated service at NMRTC Bethesda By Petty Officer 2nd Class Alec Kramer NAVY MEDICINE READINESS AND TRAINING COMMAND BETHESDA

BETHESDA, Md. — Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command Bethesda celebrated the Navy Medical Service Corps 79th anniversary at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, honoring a legacy that began with the Army-Navy Medical Service Corps Act of 1947, August 4, 2026. The celebration highlighted the history of the medical service corps which started with four specialist sections and today is a diverse group of 31 unique specialties. Rear Adm. Matthew Case, Acting Surgeon General and Director of the Medical Service Corps, delivered remarks reﬂecting on the enduring mission of the MSC and the true meaning behind its name. “For 79 years now, our Corps has stood tall and delivered and supported our warﬁghters every day,” Case noted. “I’m reminded of every day what our middle name is. It’s Service.” During the reading of the official Birthday Message, Case’s written words emphasized the indispensable nature of the Corps service in supporting the Joint Force. “Today, you are the essential professionals that hold Navy Medicine together,” said Case. “Whether you are leading in our military treatment facilities, sailing aboard naval and hospital ships, driving clinical research, or supporting operations in challenging environments worldwide, your expertise powers our mission.” Beyond operational excellence, Case placed a heavy emphasis on mentorship and the crucial support system provided by military families. “I ask you, as MSCs, advise each other through one-on-one, peer-to-peer mentoring. Take care of each other,” Case urged the attendees. He also took a moment to express profound gratitude for the loved ones behind the uniform, stating, “Thank you to your families for their unwavering support, resilience,

Rear Adm. Matthew Case, Acting Surgeon General and Director of the Medical Service Corps, Capt. David Lang, executive officer, Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Center and Lt. Adrianna Kuechle take part in the ceremonial cake cutting during a MSC Birthday Ceremony at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, August 4, 2026. NMRTC Bethesda’s mission is to maximize warﬁghter performance through optimized medical readiness tailored to operational requirements; enhance the readiness of the medical force to sustain expeditionary medical capability; and train and develop the Navy Medicine Force. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY MASS COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST SECOND CLASS ALEC KRAMER)

and sacriﬁces which form the bedrock of your service.” The ceremony concluded with the time-honored tradition of cutting the cake. As the Medical Service Corps looks to the

future, it remains anchored by its history and the unwavering commitment of its officers to serve the Navy, Marine Corps, and the nation. NMRTC Bethesda’s mission is to maximize warfighter performance through

optimized medical readiness tailored to operational requirements; enhance the readiness of the medical force to sustain expeditionary medical capability; and train and develop the Navy Medicine Force.

ﬂagshipnews.com | Section A | Thursday, August 20, 2026

Acting Secretary of the Navy launches new academic year at the U.S. Naval War College By Lt.Cmdr. Seth Koenig U.S. NAVAL WAR COLLEGE

NEWPORT, R.I. — The Honorable Hung Cao, Acting Secretary of the Navy, delivered keynote remarks as the U.S. Naval War College (NWC) began its 2026-2027 academic year with two ceremonies, Aug. 3-4. On Tuesday, Aug. 4, NWC held its annual Convocation ceremony, welcoming a total of 477 students to the academic year. Cao, who addressed the Convocation audience virtually from Washington, D.C., called the war college “the leadership laboratory,” urging the enrolled military officers to embrace their roles as leaders, build relationships and stay loyal to their oath, their fellow service members and their allies. “We’re coming in at a very particular time, with threats looming around the world, but our Navy and Marine Corps are doing the job and securing the pathways,” said Cao. “The strength of our military is not the equipment we have; it’s our Sailors and Marines. As leaders, our one call is to lead those young sailors and Marines the right way. The Naval War College is the leadership laboratory we need, because the first time you meet one another should not be on the battlefield— it should be in places like this where we’re able to share ideas and get to know each other.” The total of 477 included 292 new students from all six branches of the U.S. armed forces and U.S. federal government agencies, as well as 81 U.S. students continuing into the fall courses after previous November and March enrollments, and another 104 international students from partner and allied nations. NWC students work to earn Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) credit and either a diploma or a master’s degree in National Security and Strategic Studies or Defense and Strategic Studies. “Those who enroll in the U.S. Naval War College can expect a rigorous curriculum that will challenge them and, ultimately, forge them into strategists and warfighters who can be successful in any conflict, any time and any place,” said NWC President Rear Adm. Darryl Walker. “Many of the greatest military leaders our nation has seen in the last century and a half have been students or faculty here at the war college. We know there are many future commanders and flag officers among the students in the audience at convocation every year. It’s a proven fact.” Each year, nearly 500 in-resident students graduate, with 60 percent being selected for command of ships, squadrons and other military units. In the U.S., the college has also produced three Chairmen of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, 15 Chiefs of Naval Operations and 13 other service branch heads. Additionally, the college welcomes between 100 and 150 foreign officers to the U.S. from around the world each year to study strategy, warfare, decision making, and operational art. Since creating a program for

NEWPORT, R.I.— The Honorable Hung Cao, Acting Secretary of the Navy, delivers keynote remarks virtually as the U.S. Naval War College (NWC) Convocation ceremony, beginning its 2026-2027 academic year, on Aug. 4, 2026. Convocation welcomed a total of 477 students to the 2026-27 academic year. Established in 1884, NWC informs today’s decision-makers and educates tomorrow’s leaders by providing educational experiences and learning opportunities that develop their ability to anticipate and prepare strategically for the future, strengthen the foundations of peace, and create a decisive warﬁghting advantage. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY KRISTOPHER BURRIS)

NEWPORT, R.I.— U.S. Naval War College (NWC) students and faculty ﬁll Spruance Auditorium during the institution’s Convocation ceremony onboard Naval Station Newport, Aug. 4, 2026. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY KRISTOPHER BURRIS)

international officers in 1956, the NWC has more than 5,500 international alumni from 145 countries worldwide. Approximately 10 percent of the alumni from the college’s international programs have gone on to become heads of their country’s respective navy. The day before Convocation, NWC’s

annual Cloister ceremony welcomed more than 300 faculty members from the college’s in-resident and distance education programs to celebrate faculty accomplishments and prepare for the academic year ahead. During the event, the faculty was formally introduced to the war college’s new provost

— the institution’s top academic officer — retired U.S. Navy Capt. Michael O’Hara, Ph.D. O’Hara previously served as the dean of the college’s Center for Naval Warfare Studies (CNWS). “As a military and civilian faculty team, we teach in rigorous ways to prepare officers to be critical thinkers,” O’Hara told the assembled faculty during Cloister. “We challenge them through readings, case studies, and seminar discussions to take estimates of situations, to express intent, to consider alternate points of view and counterarguments. We immerse them in practical problems to plan and integrate joint all-domain operations from seabed to space. We wargame them and pit them against thinking opponents who sharpen their abilities to think at the operational-level of war and at the strategic-level, too.” AlsoduringCloister,facultymemberswere recognized and presented awards for superior achievements in teaching and research related to their specific disciplines. Among those recognized were Dr. Michael Poznansky, from CNWS’ Strategic and Operational Research Department (SORD) and Cyber and Innovation Policy Institute (CIPI), and U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Marc Blankenbicker from CNWS’ War Gaming Department, who received the Civilian and Military Faculty Awards for Excellence in Research, respectively, for distinguishing themselves by formulating critical questions, investigating key data resources, and synthesizing and sharing innovative ideas. Dr. Leigh Ann Perry of the College of Leadership and Ethics (CLE) and U.S. Navy Cmdr. Daniel Post of the Strategy & Policy Department received the Civilian and Military Faculty Awards for Excellence in Service, respectively, for providing excellent service to NWC and the greater community. Prof. William Murray of SORD and the Halsey Bravo Research Group and U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Matthew Rohlfing of the Maritime Advanced Warfighting School (MAWS) received the Civilian and Military Faculty Awards for Excellence in Teaching, respectively for providing a superb academic environment and educational experience for their students. Retired U.S. Navy Capt. Thomas Mangold, Dr. Michael Martin, Dr. Robert Tomlinson, Dr. Mary Thompson-Jones and Dr. Donald Marrin were awarded status as emeritus professors, honorary titles that are carried into retirement and denote distinguished accomplishment during their careers as faculty. Established in 1884, NWC informs today’s decision-makers and educates tomorrow’s leaders by providing educational experiences and learning opportunities that develop their ability to hedge aggressively, innovate continuously, fight distributively, delegate confidently, and command with clarity within complex battlespaces.

U.S. Naval War College hosts Future Warﬁghting Symposium By Lt.Cmdr. Seth Koenig U.S. NAVAL WAR COLLEGE

NEWPORT, Rhode Island — The U.S. Naval War College (NWC) held its 10th annual Future Warfighting Symposium (FWS), focused on innovation and the future of joint warfare, at its Newport, Rhode Island, campus on Aug. 5-6. Vice Adm. Heidi Berg — commander of U.S. 10th Fleet, Navy Space Command and Fleet Cyber Command — was a keynote speaker at the two-day event, speaking on the second and ﬁnal day of the symposium. “We face adversaries who seek to change the global world order and seek to undermine what has been in place since World War II — and that is what is at stake,” she said. “I truly think this is existential. That is why when we have opportunities (to study) the changing character of war, I think it is important, and why I prioritize it. “In cyberspace, and in space, in electronic warfare… we are at war every single day,” Berg added. “Understanding how warfare is evolving will help us ensure we can maintain our decisive military advantage.” Panel discussions over the two days focused on remote autonomous systems, the space domain, interagency operations and deterrence. Panelists included experts from the Navy’s Unmanned Surface Vessel Squadron 3, Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS), National Security Council, China Aerospace Studies Institute and a number of other academic, industry and research institutions. The keynote speaker on the event’s opening day was Pulitzer Prize-winning war correspondent and former U.S. Marine C.J. Chivers. The event came one day following the war college’s convocation ceremony, kicking off the 2026-27 academic year. “The Future Warﬁghting Symposium is always an eye-opening and motivating way to start our academic year at the U.S. Naval War College,”saidRearAdm.DarrylWalker,NWC president. “I want to thank Vice Adm.Berg, Commander 10th Fleet,and all of our brilliant speakers and panelists who provided our war college team with the insight and expertise necessarytoprepareournextwaveofmilitary

Vice Adm. Heidi Berg, commander of U.S. Fleet Cyber Command, Navy Space Command and U.S. 10th Fleet, delivers keynote remarks at the U.S. Naval War College (NWC) Future Warfighting Symposium (FWS) onboard Naval Station Newport, Aug. 6, 2026. The tenth annual FWS welcomed over 400 in-resident students, including officers from all branches of the U.S. armed forces, U.S. federal government agencies, and brought together a broad group of subject matter experts to address topics identified by the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff as special areas of emphasis, including cyber warfare, space, artificial intelligence and data analysis, and strategic deterrence. Established in 1884, NWC informs today’s decision-makers and educates tomorrow’s leaders by providing educational experiences and learning opportunities that develop their ability to anticipate and prepare strategically for the future, strengthen the foundations of peace, and create a decisive warfighting advantage. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY MASS COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST 2ND CLASS CONNOR BURNS)

leaders for the evolutions of conﬂict they may see in the years ahead. The men and women enrolled here will graduate better prepared for the future of warﬁghting, and as its name suggests, this symposium will help us make sure of that.” Initiated in 2017 by Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) mandate, FWS gives NWC the opportunity to further its training and educa-

tion on new emerging forms of war. The symposium supports Navy and Department of Defense priorities by challenging leaders to think innovatively about capabilities and threats in space; the global information grid and emerging technologies such as nanotechnologies, biological agents, robotics and artiﬁcial intelligence. Established in 1884, NWC is the oldest

institution of its kind in the world. The college delivers excellence in education, research, and outreach, informing today’s decision makers, educating tomorrow’s leaders, and engaging partners and Allies on all matters of naval power in order to preserve the peace, respond in crisis, and win decisively in war.

ﬂagshipnews.com | Section A | Thursday, August 20, 2026

THANKS TO ALL THE BRAVE MEN AND WOMEN FOR YOUR SERVICE TO OUR COUNTRY.

750

U.S. Military

Incentive

CAN BE COMBINED WITH TOYOTA SPECIAL CASH BACK OR SPECIAL FINANCING OR SPECIAL LEASES!

2026 CAMRY & COROLLA

ALL-NEW 2026 RAV4 2

2026 TACOMA

TACOMA HAS THE BEST RESALE VALUE IN ALL CLASSES

FIRST TEAM TOYOTA

CASEY TOYOTA

601 East Rochambeau Drive • Williamsburg 757.259.1000 • caseytoyota.com

CHECKERED FLAG TOYOTA

5301 Virginia Beach Blvd. • Virginia Beach

3400 Western Branch Blvd. • Chesapeake

GLOUCESTER TOYOTA

HALL TOYOTA VIRGINIA BEACH

6357 George Washington Memorial Hwy. Gloucester 804.693.2100 • gloucestertoyota.com

1877 Laskin Road • Virginia Beach 757.437.4000 • halltoyotavirginiabeach.com

PEARSON TOYOTA 757.874.6000 • pearsontoyotascion.com

PRIORITY TOYOTA CHESAPEAKE

1800 Greenbrier Parkway • Chesapeake 757.213.5000 • prioritytoyotachesapeake.com

CLASSIC TOYOTA HAMPTON 2301 W. Mercury Blvd. • Hampton 757.838.5000 • classictoyotahampton.com

AUGUST 3, 2026 THROUGH AUGUST 31, 2026

NOT ALL APPLICANTS WILL QUALIFY

HATCHBACKS)

(EXCLUDES TRD PRO AND TRAILHUNTER MODELS) NOT ALL BUYERS WILL QUALIFY. ALL OFFERS DEALER FEES ARE EXTRA, VARY BY DEALER, AND DEALER SETS FINAL PRICE SEE PARTICIPATING CENTRAL ATLANTIC TOYOTA DEALER FOR DETAILS. OFFERS END 8/31/26.

(EXCLUDES

Quarterdeck

PA G E 1

SECTION B

T H U R S D AY, A U G U S T 2 0 , 2 0 2 6

FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM

Shore Intermediate Maintenance Activity Norfolk commanding officer discusses restoring sailor technical expertise, ﬂeet readiness By Oscar Pope MID-ATLANTIC REGIONAL MAINTENANCE CENTER

NORFOLK, Va. — In June, the Navy reestablished the Shore Intermediate Maintenance Activities (SIMA) in Norfolk and San Diego after more than 20 years with the goals of increasing enlisted technical expertise and improving the combat readiness of surface combatants, Capt. Megan Thomas, commanding officer of SIMA Norfolk, recently discussed the return, the command’s mission, Sailor technical development, and how intermediate-level maintenance supports fleet readiness and combat capability. Why is bringing back Shore Intermediate Maintenance Activities so important for the Navy? The strategic environment has changed significantly since the original SIMAs were disestablished. Today’s Navy needs Sailors who can both operate and repair their equipment, particularly in contested environments where outside technical assistance may not be available. Re-establishing SIMA Norfolk helps restore Sailor self-sufficiency while improving the material readiness of the fleet. What is SIMA’s primary mission? SIMA has two primary missions: increasing enlisted technical expertise through intermediate-level maintenance and improving the combat readiness of surface ships. By combining hands-on repairs with technical development, we strengthen both our Sailors and the fleet. How does SIMA fit into the Navy’s overall maintenance enterprise? SIMA is one part of a larger maintenance team. Regional maintenance centers, public shipyards, industry partners and ships’ force all have critical roles. Depot-level maintenance remains essential, while SIMA focuses on intermediate-level repairs and technical development. Together, those efforts improve maintenance efficiency and help deliver combat-ready ships on schedule. Why is Sailor self-sufficiency so important? Future conflicts may limit our ability to rely on outside technical support. Sailors must have the knowledge and confidence to diagnose and repair equipment at sea. SIMA Norfolk develops those skills primarily through hands-on maintenance, and mentorship from technical subject matter experts.

NORFOLK (July 7, 2026) Capt. Megan Thomas, commanding officer of the Shore Intermediate Maintenance Activity (SIMA) Norfolk, discusses Sailor technical restoration during a new indoctrination class as part of the Navy-wide World Class Onboarding (WCO) initiative. The U.S. Navy reestablished SIMA commands in Norfolk and San Diego in June 2026. The reestablishment directly supports the Navy’s vision of utilizing a responsive, Sailor-led force to optimize materiel readiness while building Sailors’ technical expertise and ﬂeet self-sufficiency. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY PUBLIC AFFAIRS SPECIALIST OSCAR POPE)

How does reestablishing SIMA Norfolk improve technical proficiency? Sailors assigned to SIMA Norfolk perform maintenance on operational equipment while rotating through multiple repair shops during their tour. Those rotations expose them to a broader range of systems and troubleshooting experiences than traditional assignments, producing more capable maintainers when they return to operational commands. What role do ﬂeet technical assistance providersattheregionalmaintenancecenters play? We’re integrating ﬂeet technical assistance more closely with repair activities so experienced technicians can mentor Sailors during actual maintenance. That partnership

accelerates learning while improving repair quality. How does SIMA improve ﬂeet readiness? SIMA Norfolk provides a surge-capable maintenance force that can respond when ships experience unexpected equipment failures. Sailors and civilians work together to complete repairs quickly, helping ships meet maintenance milestones, training requirements and deployment schedules. What does SIMA Norfolk provide to ships homeported here? We serve as a readiness partner by supplementing shipboard maintenance, providing technical expertise, assisting with repairs and helping close training gaps. We also work closely with Naval Surface

Groups to identify fleet-wide maintenance trends and respond where we’re needed most. How is today’s SIMA Norfolk different from the original organization? This is SIMA 2.0. While we retain the core mission of intermediate-level maintenance, we’re modernizing our approach by emphasizing technical development, structured training, advanced manufacturing and process improvement. The goal is to produce better maintainers while delivering greater readiness. What role does advanced manufacturing play? Advanced manufacturing—including additive manufacturing, commonly known as 3D printing—is creating opportunities to produce certain parts more quickly when traditional supply chains cannot. As fleet technology evolves, manufacturing capability must evolve with it to support operational readiness. What should Sailors expect when they report to SIMA Norfolk? Every Sailor completes a structured onboarding program that assesses their skills, develops an individualized training plan and prepares them to contribute immediately. Throughout their tour, they’ll rotate through repair shops, build technical expertise and document their qualifications so their follow-on commands understand the capabilities they bring back to the fleet. What is the long-term vision for SIMA Norfolk? Our focus is continuous improvement. We’re evaluating where additional capacity and capability are needed, expanding the workforce deliberately and strengthening partnerships across the maintenance enterprise. Every adjustment is centered on developing Sailors and improving fleet readiness. What would you say to Sailors considering orders to SIMA Norfolk? If you want to become a technical expert while directly contributing to combat readiness, SIMA is the place to be. You’ll build skills that benefit your career and help ensure our warships are ready when the nation calls. Any final thoughts? Everything we do supports the warfighter. Our mission is to develop Sailors and deliver readiness so our ships can deploy with confidence in both their equipment and their people. That is the purpose behind bringing SIMA back— and why it matters to the future of the fleet.

Additional TRICARE Prime option expands health care access By Master Sgt. Tyrona Mckinley 633D AIR BASE WING

JOINT BASE LANGLEY-EUSTIS, Va. — Maintaining a ready force depends on more than training and equipment, it requires service members and their families to have reliable access to quality health care. Eligible Joint Base Langley-Eustis beneﬁciaries have another Department of Defense-authorized TRICARE Prime option through the Uniformed Services Family Health Plan, expanding access to care across Hampton Roads. Access to dependable health care helps strengthen readiness by reducing stress during military transitions, improving continuity of care and allowing service members to remain focused on the mission. “Joint Base Langley-Eustis is built on the strength of our people across every service and mission set,” said Col. Stephen Anderson, 633d Air Base Wing commander. “Ensuring our families and retirees understand their health care options supports continuity, reduces stress during transitions and ultimately strengthens our ability to defend the

base and support the ﬁght.” Administered by Johns Hopkins Health Plans, the USFHP offers the same coverage and costs as traditional TRICARE Prime while providing access to a civilian network of more than 40,000 health care providers nationwide, including more than 10,000 throughout the Hampton Roads region. Membersmaychooseaprimarycareprovider within the network while receiving compre-

hensive TRICARE Prime benefits, preventive care and coordinated specialty care. “Every family has unique health care needs and preferences,” said Carly Kavanay, Johns Hopkins Health Plans representative. “Our plan gives members the flexibility to choose a primary care provider within our network who is the right fit for them, build a lasting relationship with a physician who gets to know their health history, and change provid-

ers if their needs or preferences evolve.” Additional benefits include same-day specialty referrals, after-hours virtual care, annual eye exams and wellness-related discounts. Eligible beneficiaries may also switch between USFHP and traditional TRICARE Prime at any time without waiting for TRICARE Open Season or a qualifying life event. Information about the plan is available through newcomer orientations and family support programs, helping eligible beneficiaries understand the health care options available throughout their military service. In addition to eligible active-duty family members, USFHP is available to eligible family members of activated Reserve and National Guard personnel, military retirees and other qualified beneficiaries living within designated service areas in Virginia and surrounding states. For information about eligibility and enrollment, beneficiaries can visit the official TRICARE, https://tricare.mil/ and Uniformed Services Family Health Plan, https://www.hopkinsusfhp.org/ websites or contact a local USFHP representative.

Accountability: Not just while you’re at work Courtesy Story NAVAL SAFETY COMMAND

In the Marine Corps, accountability isn’t a buzzword; it’s the bedrock of trust between the Marine on your left and right. We are entrusted with immense responsibility, from the ﬁre team to the Marine Expeditionary Force, and with that comes an absolute requirement for accountability, not just for our careers, but for the readiness of our unit and the welfare of our team. This ethos doesn’t stop at the end of the workday. The professional discipline ensuring a helicopter is safe to ﬂy, or a vehicle is ready to roll, is the same discipline required to manage risk off duty. A single missed step during maintenance can sideline a critical

asset and impact mission readiness. In the same way, a poor decision made off duty can remove a vital member from a team depending on them. The consequences of decisions, good or bad, are the primary drivers of success or failure. Nowhere is this truer than with motorcycle riding, an activity that remains a top safety challenge for Marines. Policies governing riding, from mandatory training and use of personal protective equipment to mentorship programs, are not in place to restrict freedom. They are safety mechanisms forged from the hard-learned lessons of those who came before us, designed to keep our riders safely in formation. A common sentiment among riders is, “It’s my life and I’m only hurting myself.” While

understandable from an individual’s point of view, this perspective overlooks the truth of our profession: our individual readiness is a team asset. Our knowledge, skills and presence are all counted on by fellow Marines. A bad decision, like riding under the inﬂuence or forgoing a helmet, doesn’t just endanger one person; it has the potential to remove a leader, a mentor, a friend from the lives of their family and from the ranks of their unit. Accountability is a team sport. It demands not only personal discipline but also the courage to hold our fellow Marines to the same standard. Intervening when a fellow Marine disregards policy or makes a dangerous choice is never easy. But it will never be as difficult as attending the funeral of a Marine you could have helped. In our Corps, any

Marine has the authority and the obligation to step in and save a life. Ultimately, a culture of accountability is what strengthens a safety program and, more importantly, begins to change the very behaviors that lead to preventable mishaps. If you would like additional information on improving your unit’s motorcycle safety program, contact your unit motorcycle safety representative. Ride safe! (Editor’s Note: This article came from a submission for the upcoming [Ground Warrior Magazine](https://navalsafetycommand.navy. mil/Media/Mags-Pubs/Ground-Warrior/) Winter Edition. The message is very ﬁtting for the Navy AND Marine Corps motorcycle communities. Read and heed.)

ﬂagshipnews.com | Section B | Thursday, August 20, 2026

Mentoring Program at America’s Shipyard: Fostering a culture of growth Courtesy Story NORFOLK NAVAL SHIPYARD

Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) officially re-established the Mentorship Program with the signing of NAVSHIPYDNORINST 12411.1A on June 17, 2026. This updated instruction introduces a formal structure designed to foster personal and professional development for all NNSY civilian employees, building a culture of lifelong learning crucial for retaining a highly skilled workforce. The core mission of the program is to create a reliable framework for mentoring relationships. It focuses on three main objectives: (1) promoting a mentoring culture to increase engagement, (2) developing a diverse pool of volunteer mentors, and (3) providing every employee with structured access to the shipyard’s collective wisdom. A strong mentoring program is proven to lead to better talent retention, effective succession planning, and higher job satisfaction. By clarifying how employees contribute to the organization’s broader success, the program builds workforce confidence and readiness. There are two forms of mentor, formal and informal. Formal mentor focuses on setting and achieving a goal. Informal mentoring is a support relationship with no goal in mind. The new instruction focuses on formal mentoring to enhance a culture of learning. There are two distinct types of formal mentoring: MentoringforPersonalDevelopment:Initiated by the employee (aka mentee), this path is highly individualized. The mentee identifies a desired area of growth, sets a goal and then selects a mentor either by networking or using a mentoring tool such as the Mentor Match program in Waypoints. Mentoring for Workforce Development: Initiated by the organization, leadership, or supervisors, this path focuses on addressing specific job-related skills, improving performance, or facilitating onboarding. In both scenarios, the partnership is built on a mutual agreement utilizing a Mentoring Action Plan (MAP) to achieve SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, Time Bound) goals. Let’s look at an example of each. Maria has been in her position at NNSY for the past 10 years and is at the peak of her job position.

With her desire to continue to move up, Marie identified her next position and set a goal to apply for and get hired with the next job opportunity. Maria was able to identify the knowledge and skills she would need to be proficient in the new role. She happens to know that Mike is the most knowledgeable person in that role, and she asked Mike if he would be her formal mentor to help prepare her for the position. Mike said, “yes”. Both looked at the new guidance and using the Mentoring Action Plan in the guide, she and Mike created an action plan which included his commitment to meeting with her routinely focusing on the areas of improvement that Maria created in an Individual Development Plan (IDP) to obtain the experience and learn about the position. As for the IDP? That’s a story for another day. In the end though, the job announcement came out, Maria confidently applied for the position thanks to the help of her mentor, and she was offered a position. But Maria wasn’t the only winner. By guiding her through the process, Mike sharpened his own coaching and leadership skills. He found that explaining the nuances of the job kept his own knowledge sharp and gave him immense satisfaction in directly building NNSY’s future leadership pipeline. In another scenario Gabriel was a direct hire. His reputation preceded him as one of the best welders in Hampton Roads and the shop was the real winner in the job hire. The only challenge was that after New Employee Orientation Gabriel had a list of requirements that would take too much time to accomplish if left to himself to figure out. Since Gabe was new to the organization, he wasn’t even sure who could help him out. His immediate supervisor recognized the challenges of bringing a new employee into the organization and he assigned Steve to be his mentor. Steve was in that exact same position 5 years earlier and understood all that it took to get acclimated to the environment. Steve took on the challenge of bringing Gabe up to speed and the two, working together as a team, identified all of the issues of a new employee and created a plan. Steve brought Gabe alongside, met with him daily and ensured he was issued all of the proper materials and safety equipment, ensured that he was able to operate on his own and navigate the shipyard and now, six months later, the two are both highly productive. For

Steve, the payoff was immediate. Not only did he gain a highly capable partner on the deckplates, but his supervisor recognized Steve’s ability to lead and develop people—a critical milestone that Steve can now point to for his own future promotion opportunities. In both cases there were roles, roles to prepare for a job or to get acclimated to an organization. Although the process of gaining a mentor was different, the end result was the same, an employee achieved a goal and the organization benefited. As demonstrated in both cases, formal mentoring creates mutual benefits for everyone involved: What the Mentee Gets: A clear path to career advancement, technical and organizational knowledge and increased confidence and networking. What the Mentor Gets: Enhanced leadership and communication skills, recognition by supervisors as a talent developer and the satisfaction of passing on the shipyard legacy. Success relies on active participation across all levels. Mentees are empowered to drive their career growth, while mentors volunteer their expertise to guide them. Leadership is tasked with encouraging participation and providing time for mentoring during normal work hours, with Command University overseeing implementation. Do you have a career or a workforce development role? Do you have an employee who just needs a little help at the top of their game? It’s time to jump in! Identify the goal: Determine what you want to achieve or the expertise you can offer. Find a Partner: Network locally or use the Waypoints system (don.csodfed.com). CompleteTraining:Bothpartiesmustfinish mandatory online training in Waypoints. Develop a Plan: Co-create your MAP to ensure shared expectations. While formal mentoring relationships end once goals are met, they often blossom into lasting professional friendships. This renewed focus on mentorship is a direct investment in NNSY’s most valuable asset— its people—ensuring the continued success of the command’s mission. For more information on Mentoring contact the NNSY Career Counselors at NNSY\_WFD@us.navy.mil.

Q: What types of family housing are available? A: There are three types of housing available to families: Public/Private Venture (PPV) Housing is also referred to as privatized housing in the Navy. The Navy partnered with different private management companies to provide housing to Service Members. These companies are responsible for the construction, renovation, maintenance and day-to-day management of the housing. PPV housing may be located on or off government property and in most cases will be former military housing. Government Owned (also known as Military Housing or Navy Managed Housing is what was formerly called on-base housing. While only available in limited quantities CONUS, Government Owned Housing is still widely available OCONUS. Community Housing is any housing that a Service Member may choose that is not PPV or government operated. This is housing outside of the base that is privately owned and operated.

NAVY HOUSING CONTACTS:

Norfolk: 757.445.2832 JEBLCFS: 757.462.2792 Oceana/Dam Neck: 757.433.3268 Yorktown: 757.847.7806 If you have any questions or concerns with privatized housing, government-owned housing or community housing you can email Navy Housing Headquarters: NavyHousingHQ@us.navy.mil or learn more online: ffr.cnic.navy.mil/Navy-Housing

Mid-Atlantic Fleet and Family Support Centers (FFSC) programs and services are designed to help you make the most of your military experience, and they’re all available to you at no cost.

(PHOTO BY CHERISH GILMORE)

ONR to Host Innovation Industry Days on Sept. 21–25 By Cherish Gilmore OFFICE OF NAVAL RESEARCH

ARLINGTON, Va. — To develop accelerated warﬁghter capabilities, the Office of Naval Research (ONR) will host an Innovation Industry Days (I2D) event from Monday, Sept. 21, to Friday, Sept. 25, 2026, in Arlington, Virginia. This multi-day event will spotlight critical science and technology (S&T) roadmaps projected over the next 15 years. Registration closes Friday, August 21, at 4 p.m. Eastern, and there is no registration fee for participation. Speciﬁc Focus Area days within that week will be provided to registrants. “Innovation Industry Days present an excellent opportunity to collaborate with industry and discuss the Navy and Marine Corps’ most pressing research needs and challenges,” said Chief of Naval Research Dr.

Rachel Riley. “This sharing of knowledge will empower us to continue to shape the future, overcome hurdles and deliver dominant warfighting capabilities to the Fleet and Force.” During the Sept. 21—25 event, ONR leadership and program officers will brief attendees on key technology portfolios, offering opportunities for direct questions and answers. Additionally, each briefer will host dedicated office hours, providing attendees with a valuable opportunity for personalized, one-on-one engagement. Crucially, the event will focus on identifying and ﬁlling future technology gaps across 11 key Focus Areas: Artiﬁcial Intelligence (AI) and Autonomy Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Cyber, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C5ISR) and Naval Space Directed Energy and Kinetic Systems Materials and Electronics

YOUR PERFECT

JOB IS WAITING

Human and Biological Systems Manufacturing Naval Engineering Naval Aerospace Ocean Atmosphere and Space Power and Energy Undersea Systems ONR seeks to engage traditional, non-traditional, commercial, and innovative partners interestedinaddressingtheDepartmentofthe Navy’s future operational and technological needs in these domains. Pre-registration is required for all attendees. Walk-in registrations will not be permitted. Registration closes on Friday, August 21, 2026. To register, and learn more details about the Innovation Industry Days, click https://www. onlineregistrationcenter.com/register/222/ page1.asp?m=4269&c=747.

Search jobs. Post your resume. Stand out from the crowd. careers.tribpub.com

FUNCTIONS AND/OR SERVICES FFSC PROVIDES: ClinicalCounseling – Individual, Couples and Child Counseling Personal Financial Management Information & Referral Family Employment Assistance Transition Assistance Family Advocacy Program Deployment and Mobilization Support Ombudsman Support Relocation Assistance Parenting Programs Stress and Anger Management Command Support Crisis Support Suicide Prevention SAPR Support CONTACT FFSC Little Creek/Fort Story: 757.462.7563 Newport News: 757.688.6289 Norfolk/Portsmouth: 757.444.2102 Northwest: 757.421.8770 Oceana/Dam Neck: 757.433.2912 Yorktown: 757.887.4606 Get more info online: www.navylifema.com

ﬂagshipnews.com | Section B | Thursday, August 20, 2026

NAVFAC Washington delivers new Visitor Control Center to strengthen security, support the Warﬁghter at MCB Quantico By Natasha Waldron Anthony NAVAL FACILITIES ENGINEERING SYSTEMS COMMAND WASHINGTON

MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, Va. — Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command (NAVFAC) Washington celebrated the completion of P-656, a new Visitor Control Center (VCC) and Commercial Vehicle Inspection (CVI) facility at Marine Corps Base Quantico, during a ribbon-cutting ceremony held July 30. The $22.6 million project, awarded to Encon Desbuild JV in August 2023, delivers approximately 18,000 square feet of new infrastructure, including a gatehouse, sentry and commercial vehicle inspection gates and expanded parking, all built in direct compliance with Antiterrorism/Force Protection (AT/FP) requirements. “The successful completion of P-656 is a fantastic example of the very strong partnership that exists between the Marine Corps and NAVFAC at Marine Corps Base Quantico,” said Capt. Daniel Schmitt, NAVFAC Washington’s commanding officer. “Our teams worked hand in hand during the planning, design and construction phases of the project to ensure it was completed on time, within budget and to the highest quality.” Schmitt added that the facility represents far more than construction materials left behind, “It’s the delivery of increased AT/ FP capability,” at what he called the “Crossroads of the Marine Corps.” For the NAVFAC Washington team on the ground, the project was as much about mission as it was about masonry. Construction Manager Lt. Alfred Brown said the team stayed focused on the warfighter throughout construction. “We kept the mission front and center by maintaining close communication with the Provost Marshal’s Office throughout the project,” Brown said. “By coordinating schedule changes, discussing potential modifications and incorporating feedback from the end user, we ensured the facility would meet operational needs while minimizing impacts to base security and day-to-day operations.” That close coordination with the Provost Marshal’s Office paid off for the Marines and civilian officers who will run the new facility day to day. “This new building is a massive leap forward in our capabilities by integrating modernized defense biometric identification system known as Defense technology and expanding our processing capacity,” said U.S. Marine Corps Master Sgt. Trey James, the Provost Marshal Office operations chief. “We are dramatically reducing the wait times for our guests. But most importantly, we are enhancing our force protection, allowing our civilian police force and Marines to rapidly screen for active warrants, verify credentials and ensure the absolute safety of the thousands of service members and their families

The new Visitor Control Center at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, stands ready ahead of its grand opening ceremony, July 30, 2025. Marine Corps and Navy officials, along with project partners and contractors, cut the ribbon during the ceremony. The $22.6 million facility, delivered by Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command Washington in partnership with Encon Desbuild JV, will streamline visitor processing and enhance security screening at the installation. (PHOTO BY NATASHA WALDRON ANTHONY, NAVAL FACILITIES ENGINEERING SYSTEMS COMMAND WASHINGTON)

who live and train on this installation.” Harold Rodriguez, supervisory civil engineer with NAVFAC Washington’s Planning, Design and Construction Directorate, said the project’s design and construction team felt a direct connection to that mission. “It’s

overwhelming to feel that you deliver a facility for our warfighters, and this is kind of the first line of defense for them,” Rodriguez said. “Being of service for our warfighters is really rewarding.” The new VCC/CVI complex will process

approximately 60,000 visitors, contractors and students who pass through Quantico annually, strengthening force protection while easing traffic congestion at the installation’s main gateway.

Eye on innovation: Norfolk Naval Shipyard leading the charge for computed radiography and digital radiography for the Navy By Kristi R Britt NORFOLK NAVAL SHIPYARD

Have you ever been to the dentist’s office and received an X-ray of your mouth? They utilize plates and handy equipment to generate a quick digital image of your teeth to be evaluated in the blink of an eye. It seems like a rather standard tool for this age of digital transformation, yet it’s hard to believe such technologies are still in their infancy, growing more with each advancement to ensure we can improve and accomplish more in our time. Now, what if I told you that a similar technology is now being utilized at Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY), our team setting the standard of operations across the entire corporation? NNSY is leading the charge with bringing computed radiography (CR) to the forefront of naval non-destructive testing (NDT). CR, a form of digital radiography (DR) testing, replaces traditional X-ray film imaging, where instead of using consumable film, it uses reusable photostimulable phosphor imaging plates or panels (IP) to capture images for evaluation and manipulation. Previously at NNSY, the NDT Division (Code 135) and Welding Engineering and NDT Examiner Division (Code 138) would utilize traditional film to capture imagery of assets for analysis, using dark rooms beginning in the 1920s and then eventually utilizing film processors. Though this process got the job done, it took approximately 11 minutes to process one piece of film, and could not be shared to various individuals with need-toknow for that imagery. Not only that, but film was not reusable so once an image was set to the film, that film had served its purpose. As industry standards outside the Navy continued to expand into the digital age, NNSY saw an opportunity to innovate the way we do business. ““NNSY started working on this years ago withslowprogressunfortunately,”saidNNSY NDT Test Examiner Kelly Sawyer who joined in to begin developing the program in 2022. “In 2023, after 18 months of dedicated work from the ground up, we finally got approval to use CR. And now, we’re implementing it fully into NNSY, the first shipyard to utilize CR technology. Not only that, but in the next 12 months, we’re looking to be completely digital, utilizing Digital Detector Array in NDT, meeting the industry standards of today.” “This has been a big push for the Navy

Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) Test Examiner Kelly Sawyer shows computed radiography (CR) technology in action at America’s Shipyard. CR is a form of digital radiography testing that replaces traditional X-ray ﬁlm imaging, where instead of using consumable ﬁlm, it uses reusable photostimulable phosphor imaging plates or panels to capture images for evaluation and manipulation. (PHOTO BY DANIEL DEANGELIS, NORFOLK NAVAL SHIPYARD)

overall to bring CR technology to our shipyards so it’s a fulfilling experience to see our team leading the charge in writing the procedures and working to build the program from the ground up so that everyone across our corporationcanbenefitfromthistechnology,” said Code 138.3 Test Examiner Branch Head Daniel Hardison. Compared to the traditional film process, CR can produce a digital image in 30 seconds. In addition, because the image is digital and can be stored on servers, there are no longer climate-controlled storage rooms and custom cabinets needed to properly store and maintain film within the NDT Division. That also means that images can be shared with any individual with a need-to-know, so that

they can provide their input, even when not stationed directly at NNSY. “It’s been a huge game-changer for us, especially when it comes to making multiple exposures and working with folks outside of NNSY,” said Hardison. “In addition, with the work we’re doing to build a NDT digital network, having CR means having more connections with our counterparts across the corporation — truly bringing more timely discussions and solutions to our work.” As the program continues to evolve at NNSY, the team has been working with Pennsylvania State University to continue its work into DR technology. In addition, NNSY performed the ﬁrst production CR inspection on July 22 of three piping weld joints. “This

represents many years of working towards digital modalities for radiography to bring the Navy into the future,” said NNSY NDT Division Head Michael Vitas. Sawyer said, “I’m super proud of the work that we’ve done here to bring this to our shipyard as well as the entire enterprise. I’m grateful that I was able to be in a position to work on this. It’s fantastic to see us grow and evolve in the way we do business, and seeing the images on a screen now, instead of ﬁlm, and being able to instantly evaluate the welds using precise software tools is big. It’s a huge step in the right direction and I’m excited for us to keep moving forward into the digital world.”

ﬂagshipnews.com | Section B | Thursday, August 20, 2026

Planting the seeds of tomorrow: NIWC Atlantic’s Summer STEM Camps launched Hampton Roads students ‘To the Moon and Back’ By Jerry Sekerak NAVAL INFORMATION WARFARE CENTER ATLANTIC

CHESAPEAKE, Va. — Naval Information Warfare Center (NIWC) Atlantic recently concluded its highly anticipated annual summer STEM — science, technology, engineering and math — camps, once again inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers and tech pioneers in the Hampton Roads area. Spanning five action-packed days from July 20-24, the program featured the intensive, four-day STEM Academy followed immediately by the high-energy, one-day STEM Rocks! camp, offering local middle schoolers a tuition-free, immersive dive into the cutting edge of technology. Hosted at Tidewater Community College’s (TCC)ChesapeakeCampus,thisyear’scamps took on an ambitious and timely theme:”To the Moon and Back.” The curriculum centered heavily on the future of space exploration, specifically focusing on NASA’s upcoming Artemis III mission to the moon and the eventual progression of human travel to Mars. Rising sixth, seventh and eighth graders selected for the program engaged in nearly eight hours of daily, hands-on instruction designed to turn curiosity into a lifelong passion. For Shawn Frazier, the NIWC Atlantic STEM coordinator for Hampton Roads, these camps were about far more than just teaching kids how to build rockets — they were about building a sustainable future for the local community. “Underlying everything we do is a simple, powerful mission: we want to plant the seeds of STEM early on,” Frazier said. “It’s about dropping breadcrumbs for these kids to follow. When they see the exciting work being done here, we are showing them a clear path forward. If they are interested in gaming, artificial intelligence or space travel, we want them to know those educational and career pathways exist right here at TCC and at Old Dominion University.” This collaborative ecosystem was on display throughout the week. Partners like SmithTech, utilizing their computer lab resources housed at Oscar Smith Middle School, were on site providing activities in artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, coding and even astronaut clothing safety. Meanwhile, Dr. Kevin Mobley, a professor from ODU, led interactive gaming sessions infused with AI elements. “We wanted to capture the kids’ interest early and show them how relevant this is to their lives,” Frazier explained. “From a university perspective, it gets them exposed to collegiate programs. It’s about creating a regional talent pipeline.” A cornerstone of the camp’s philosophy is showcasing Hampton Roads as a premier technologyhubwhereyoungtalentcanthrive without ever having to leave the region. “A common goal shared across NIWC Atlantic, TCC and ODU is to maintain and retain tomorrow’s talent right here in this area,” Frazier said. “There are incredible opportunities right in their backyard; they just need to be made aware of them and get involved. We had a guest speaker who was a prior STEM camp participant and did dual enrollment before going to ODU. He spoke to our rising ninth graders about taking those high school college courses. You might think eighth grade is too early to start planning your trajectory, but it never really is.” The camp’s speaker lineup also featured a NASA aerospace engineer who shared her own inspiring journey. Originally not a STEM enthusiast, her career path was completely transformed after experiencing a hands-on STEM camp just like this one — proving the

NIWC Atlantic’s summer STEM camps took place July 20-24 at Tidewater Community College’s Chesapeake Campus. Under the theme “To the Moon and Back,” rising sixth through eighth graders participated in the four-day STEM Academy and the one-day STEM Rocks! camp. The immersive program featured daily guest speakers and hands-on curriculum focused on NASA’s Artemis III mission, cybersecurity, coding, and collaborative problem-solving, culminating in a hands-on water rocket launch activity. (PHOTOS BY JERRY SEKERAK, NAVAL INFORMATION WARFARE CENTER ATLANTIC)

profound, lifelong impact these programs can have. TheSTEMAcademy,whichtookplaceJuly 20-23,guided 50 selected students through a rigorous daily schedule running from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. In addition to daily keynote addresses from four guest speakers, the academic schedule featured a comprehensive array of hands-on topics designed to stretch the students’ technical skills. Collaborative problem-solving was fostered through Design Thinking and Design Jam sessions spearheaded by SmithTech, while program instructors Adam Cooper, a NIWC Atlantic IT specialist, and Daron Moore, a government contractor with EdgeSource, led interactive workshops focusing on cybersecurity. Students also gained crucial coding and space-mapping experience through Moon Trek and micro:bit programming, and applied mathematical concepts to real-world scenarios under the guidance of instructor Tabitha Garland, a NIWC Atlantic scientist. The weeklong academy culminated on Thursday afternoon with a fan-favorite, high-flying activity: constructing and launching water rockets on the campus field. Immediatelyfollowingtheacademy,STEM Rocks! welcomed a new cohort of 50 students on July 24 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. This fast-paced, stand-alone camp compressed the thrill of the multi-day academy into a single day of high-octane challenges. The one-day STEM Rocks! event kicked off with a keynote from Charris Gabaldon, a 31-year-old NIWC Atlantic physicist embedded at NASA Langley. As a current SMART scholarship recipient and applied researcher for the Department of the Navy pushing the boundaries of experimental quantum optics, Gabaldon breaks the mold of the stereotypical scientist. Her youthfulness and vibrant energy helped close the age gap, making her instantly relatable to the young attendees. By sharing her journey — from earning her Ph.D. to turning quantum science into real-world capability — she provided a highly accessible role model for the students. Inspired by her opening remarks, the students then dived into a series of unique, space-themed modules. The interactive lineup included “Let Her Cook,” “Attack of the Drones,” “Mission Make It Loud” and “Mission Moon Map.” This summer marked a continuous 15-year legacy of STEM outreach for NIWC Atlantic. The program originally launched at Victory Elementary School in Portsmouth, progressed to Norfolk State University, and found its current home at TCC’s Chesapeake Campus in July 2022. This year represented the fourth successful iteration at TCC Chesapeake, made possible through a joint partnership with TCC, the Society of American Military Engineers and Edgesource. By keeping the camps entirely free for selected participants, NIWC Atlantic and its partners continue to break down barriers to elite technical education, ensuring that the bright young minds of Hampton Roads have the ultimate launchpad to reach for the stars. About NIWC Atlantic: As a part of Naval Information Warfare Systems Command, NIWC Atlantic provides systems engineering and acquisition to deliver information warfare capabilities to the naval, joint and national warfighter through the acquisition, development, integration, production, test, deployment, and sustainment of interoperable command, control, communications, computer, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance, cyber and information technology capabilities. Learn More: To learn more about NIWC Atlantic’s summer camps, student opportunities, and academic outreach initiatives, visithttps://www.stemrocks.net/.

NIWC Atlantic’s summer STEM camps took place July 20-24 at Tidewater Community College’s Chesapeake Campus. Under the theme “To the Moon and Back,” rising sixth through eighth graders participated in the four-day STEM Academy and the one-day STEM Rocks! camp. The immersive program featured daily guest speakers and handson curriculum focused on NASA’s Artemis III mission, cybersecurity, coding, and collaborative problem-solving, culminating in a hands-on water rocket launch activity. (PHOTOS BY JERRY SEKERAK, NAVAL INFORMATION WARFARE CENTER ATLANTIC)

ﬂagshipnews.com | Section B | Thursday, August 20, 2026

Not theoretical but personal: Naval leaders celebrate ONR at anniversary event By Warren Duffie OFFICE OF NAVAL RESEARCH

Looking back on his career as a U.S. Navy diver and explosive ordnance disposal officer, Acting Secretary of the Navy Hung Cao shared a personal perspective on the scientific and technological legacy of the Office of Naval Research (ONR). “While many of ONR’s discoveries shaped the wider world, other less well-known breakthroughs transformed the daily lives of our Sailors and Marines on the front lines,” he said. “Having served in Iraq, Afghanistan and Somalia, my perspective is that what ONR does isn’t theoretical — it’s personal. It’s what saved our lives over there. “For eight decades, ONR has stood at the vanguard of naval power,” Cao continued. “You’re the operational engine that transforms science fiction into tactical reality on the high seas.” Cao gave his remarks during a special celebration honoring ONR’s 80th anniversary. Held on July 31 in the Pentagon Auditorium, the event highlighted eight decades of critical scientific and technological innovation for the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. In addition to commemorating historical achievements, the celebration discussed the future of integrated naval power and technological dominance — and featured more than 20 ONR technology displays on the secondfloor Apex of the Pentagon’s 9th and 10th corridors. Chief of Naval Research Dr. Rachel Riley talked about ONR’s newly released 2026 Science and Technology Strategy, which calls for a fundamental transformation of how the command prioritizes, develops and deploys technology to the Navy and Marine Corps. Riley also introduced the CNR Fellows program. Launching this year, the fellowship brings newly tenured academic professors to ONR for a one-year term to learn about naval priorities, and provide technical oversight and state-of-the-art expertise. “Every time I come to the Pentagon, I think about a poster here that has a George Washington quote from 1780,” said Riley. “It says, ‘There’s nothing so likely to produce peace as to be well prepared to meet an enemy.’ It speaks to the broader importance of ONR’s mission — to ensure that every U.S. Sailor and Marine, every platform within the Joint Force, is equipped with the latest and great-

Chief of Naval Research Dr. Rachel Riley speaks during a celebration commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Office of Naval Research, held July 31 at the Pentagon Auditorium. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY MICHAEL WALLS)

est technology.” In addition to Cao, ONR’s anniversary celebration featured other prominent guest speakers: Adm. James Kilby, Vice Chief of Naval Operations Dr. Joseph S. Jewell, Assistant Secretary of War for Science and Technology Dr. Peter W. Singer, noted author, strategist and futurist “For 80 years, the Office of Naval Research has shaped the way we fight,” said Kilby. “Long before a ship is commissioned or a capability reaches the fleet, someone had to imagine that was possible. For 80 years, that has been ONR’s mission — to look beyond today’s requirements and prepare for tomorrow’s fight.”

Jewell recalled his time as a university professor and awardee of ONR’s Young Investigator Program — and expressed gratitude for the command’s sustained support of his academic research in hypersonics. “The innovations taking place through ONR are truly mission-driven, and support the warﬁghters of today and tomorrow,” he said. “The mission of ONR is paramount to our nation’s economic and national security.” During his presentation, Singer outlined ﬁve technological areas — what he called “lineages” — in which he believes ONR has been particularly effective since its establishment in 1946: Unmanned systems, robotics and autonomy Sensor improvement and integration

PNT, C5ISR and battlespace awareness Ocean science, acoustics and undersea warfare Troop protection, materials and human performance “In 1946, ONR started with six basic branches, including physics, ﬂuid mechanics, aviation and physiology,” said Singer. “From that structure, ONR has [expanded] into areas that now extend from cyber to autonomy to directed energy. Entire departments are named after words that didn’t even exist in 1946. That shows an organization evolving and changing the very lexicon of human scientiﬁc and military capability.” Warren Duffie Jr. is a contractor for ONR Corporate Strategic Communications.

Dry Dock 8 saltwater system project complete at Norfolk Naval Shipyard By Susanne Greene NORFOLK NAVAL SHIPYARD

Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY), Naval Facility Engineering Systems Command (NAVFAC) and contracting partners have worked together to complete significant upgrades to Dry Dock 8’s pumpwell system in preparation for the new Gerald R. Fordclass aircraft carriers. These upgrades are part of the dock’s full modernization that began in February 2023 under the Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program (SIOP), which has included saltwater upgrades for supporting a docked carrier;caissonanddewateringpumprepairs. SIOP is a comprehensive, long-term effort to modernize infrastructure and industrial plant equipment at the Navy’s four public shipyards. “We didn’t have the cooling capacity for the new carrier class at all,” said Tom Uliana, a construction manager with NAVFAC’s Resident Officer in Charge of Construction, Norfolk Naval Shipyard. “The Dry Dock 8 Saltwater System is just one of several projects that we did just for the Gerald R. Fordclass aircraft carrier over the last 15 years.” Uliana continued, “Dry Dock 8 is the only dry dock on the East Coast that the government owns that will berth a carrier.” The Dry Dock 8 saltwater system project increased the saltwater supply and discharge systems’ pumping capacity to serve the increased cooling requirements needed to support the USS Gerald R. Ford’s (CVN 78) infrastructure to include component and personnel cooling and provide firefighting capability for the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier while in dry dock. “In addition to the saltwater supply system improvements, the project includes drainage improvements for the dry dock. In Pumpwell 8, the project replaces the main drain pump motors, provides larger capacity dry dock drainage pumps, upgrades electrical power distribution to meet the new drainage pump requirements and improve efficiency and upgrades the pump control system,” said NNSY Code 900F.11 Construction Logistics Coordinator Quality Assurance Ryan Nutt. The previous Dry Dock 8 saltwater pump stations and distribution system were unable to support the increased demand and were therefore removed. The new system consists of two larger saltwater supply pump stations that will utilize multiple pumps and supply a total of over 20,000 gallons per minute and provide additional cooling water sources. The previous saltwater distribution system, around the dry dock and in the gallery area, was also replaced. “We also added other projects to this contract which replaced and upgraded stayer systems in the dry dock and pumpwell, replaced the main dewatering pumps, replaced the shore power circuits to the The project consists of over 560,000 man turtlebacks and replaced altar lighting and hours for the onsite contractors. electrical systems and did numerous concrete “We had so many different groups of repairs throughout the dry dock,” said NNSY people coming together for one common Construction Manager Tom Uliana. goal,” said NNSY Code 900F.42 Facilities

Execution Branch Industrial Engineer upcoming availabilities.” Bradley Harrell. “Government employees, “The collaboration has been great between contractors and subcontractors worked everyone,” said Harrell” “It’s been fantastic.” together from start to ﬁnish to increase the performance capacity of Dry Dock 8 for

ﬂagshipnews.com | Section B | Thursday, August 20, 2026

PA G E 1

On Liberty SECTION C

T H U R S D AY, A U G U S T 2 0 , 2 0 2 6

FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM

Local military children receive free backpacks and supplies at Operation Homefront’s Back-to-School Brigade® event Press Release

NORFOLK, Va. — As families across the country begin back-to-school shopping earlier than ever, many military families are facing the season with limited financial reserves. To help ease that burden, national nonprofit Operation Homefront provided 400 local military children with free backpacks filled with school supplies at its annual Back-toSchool Brigade® event in Norfolk on Friday, Aug 14th. According to the Military Family Advisory Network, one in three military-connected families has $500 or less in emergency savings. For some, back-to-school expenses often coin-

cide with permanent change of station (PCS) moves, leaving them to prepare for a new school year while recovering financially from summer relocations, navigating spouse employment disruptions, and adjusting to new communities and schools. Operation Homefront’s Back-to-School Brigade helps ease the burden by providing military children with backpacks filled with essential school supplies, helping them start the school year prepared and confident. The event also brings military families together, fostering connections and creating a sense of community as they begin a new school year. This year, Operation Homefront expects to serve more

than 18,000 military children nationwide through the Backto-School Brigade. Since launching the program in 2008, Operation Homefront has distributed more than 630,000 backpacks to military children, saving military families more than $60 million in back-to-school expenses. The Back-to-School Brigade is made possible through the generous support of Southern New Hampshire University, Dollar Tree, Food Lion, Goosehead Insurance, Hilton Grand Vacations, Northrop Grumman, RTX, and Town House® Crackers. Local sponsors include Chick-ﬁl-A Battleﬁeld and Arbor Home Loans.

Operation Homefront’s Back-to-School Brigade® provides military children with backpacks filled with essential school supplies, helping them start the school year prepared and confident. Local sponsors include Chick-fil-A Battlefield whos cow mascot showed up to spread cheer, and Food Lion donated bags of food and goodies to the families. This years event was held at Springfield Suites Norfolk on Friday, August 14, 2026. (ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF OPERATION HOMEFRONT)

The City of Norfolk, Hampton Roads Transit & Norfolk State University team up for free light rail for 2026 football home games Press Release

NORFOLK, Va. — The City of Norfolk, Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) and Norfolk State University (NSU) are teaming up again this fall to provide FREE parking and transit options for college football fans. With parking limited on campus and restricted in nearby neighborhoods, fans can park for free on game days in MacArthur South and North Garages. NSU buses will queue at MacArthur South Garage to shuttle fans to William “Dick” Price Stadium. The free shuttle buses will be available two hours before and after each game. Additionally, fans parking at the garage can catch The Tide at MacArthur Station for the FREE light rail ride to the stadium. Complimentary rides are available two hours before and after each game. Patrons should show their game tickets if asked on board. The closest station to the stadium is Ballentine/Broad Creek Station, which now includes a new walkway to enhance pedestrian access and safety when railroad crossing gates are down. With free parking at three park-and-ride lots, fans are steps away from The Tide light rail without the hassles of driving. These park-and-ride lots are at the Newtown Road Station (Newtown Rd. and Kempsville Rd. with 267 spaces) and Military Highway Station (Curlew Dr. and Corporate Blvd. with 235 spaces). Schedule of The Tide light rail times and stops can be found online at https://gohrt.com/routes/light-rail/. To help fans plan their game day trips, an online map is available showing parking areas and garages as well as the light rail routes. HRTremindsfanstobesafearoundtracks.Usedesignated crosswalks and sidewalks to reach the station. Scooter and bike riders are reminded to follow the rules of the road and golf carts are not legal on City streets. Fans should abide by the posted “No Parking” signs as ticketing and towing will be enforced. Game day fans should arrive at least 90 minutes before kickoff to avoid last-minute crowds. Tailgating begins four hours before kickoff. Tailgating guidelines are available at nsusprtans.com. Only clear bags are allowed in the stadium and tailgate area. Gates open two hours before kickoff.

Purchase tickets in advance online at nsuspartans.com and of the Bay) skip the lines! Saturday, Oct. 10, 2 p.m. vs. Virginia University of Lynchburg (Homecoming) NORFOLK STATE FOOTBALL HOME GAME SCHEDULE: Saturday, Nov. 7, noon, vs. North Carolina Central Saturday, Aug. 29, 6 p.m. vs. Winston-Salem State. Saturday, Nov. 21, noon, vs. Howard Saturday, Sept. 19, 4 p.m. vs. Hampton University (Battle Find all this information at www.norfolk.gov/NSUfootball.

ﬂagshipnews.com | Section C | Thursday, August 20, 2026

COMMUNITY | SHARE YOUR NEWS, PHOTOS & EVENTS BY EMAILING US AT NEWS@FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM

The drama of summer storms Lisa Smith Molinari is the award-winning columnist behind“The Meat and Potatoes of Life”which appears in print weekly in Stars and Stripes and military community newspapers worldwide. Her new book,The Meat and Potatoes of Life: My True Lit Com,is a hilarious readable sitcom based on the honest reality of Lisa’s 27 years as a Navy wife and mother of three.Lisa’s humor work has received multiple awards, including ﬁrst place honors in the 2018 National Society of Newspaper Columnists’ Annual Contest.Lisa is also a lawyer,and co-founder and Vice President of Operations for The Orion Military Scholarship Fund,Inc.public charity.Lisa and her family live in Jamestown,Rhode Island. Learn more at www.themeatandpotatoesoﬂife.com.

My hydrangeas act out summer’s story, as their bleaching pastel blooms wilt sadly in the beating August heat. I shut myself inside, windows and doors closed tight to keep out the relentless humidity. Shutters are put down, darkening my rooms. Curtains are closed to nature’s drama. Electric bills be damned. I turn the clunky old window air conditioner in my dining room up to its highest setting, and use a box fan to direct the cooler air into my kitchen. Living in a house built in the 1800s is charming nine months of the year, when we can pretend to be Victorian aristocrats cozying up around our fireplace and drinking hot toddies. But for the three warmest months, we mar our gorgeous old home with unsightly air conditioners, rattling dripping, and hanging from the windows, spoiling the house’s classic coastal New England vibe. It’s been hot and abnormally dry for weeks in the Northeast. No measurable precipitation yet this month, and none predicted in the ten-day forecast. Our lawn, once a luscious emerald green blanket, is now patchy with tufts that have turned a sickly flaxen hue, highlighting the stubborn weeds that survive in contrasting shades of olive. Somehow, even without a drop of rain in weeks, humidity is constant, thickening the air, dampening my upper lip and unmentionable areas, and turning my hair into a ball of frizz. I feel wasteful being indoors, missing out on these fleeting summer days, but it’s just too damned hot and muggy to stay out there for more than a quick trip to the mailbox. Working at my laptop in the kitchen, I find myself wishing for rain. Not only to satisfy the theatrical hydrangeas and the parched grass, but also for the refreshing break that rain brings during long

hot summers like this. Sitting at the kitchen island, I close my eyelids like shutters, withdraw into my darkened, air-conditioned cocoon, and envision a mid-August thunderstorm… The ﬁrst signs appear in the low clouds that gather on the horizon. Usually, their formations are dark, thick, and featureless, but today, ﬂuffy marshmallows grow towering and ominous, heralding more than just rain. I walk out onto our porch to watch the developing spectacle. As the clouds expand and come closer, the muggy, stagnant air abruptly shifts as if it’s being inhaled by a giant in the sky. I am suddenly aware of the scent of earth. The needy soil gives off its distinct musty fragrance like pheromones to attract the coming storm. I hear a rumble in the distance as

the giant takes another step towards me. He still seems so far away, I’m not afraid, but rather excited to see him approaching. There’s a flash in my peripheral vision. The fine hairs on my arms lift off my skin just in time for a surprise — a cool breeze rolls out like a red carpet making way for the superstar’s arrival. The air is now crisp, electric, as flashes and rumbles close in like paparazzi. I feel a drop, then another, before a “CRACK!” splits the sky, sending me back indoors to watch from my window. The giant has arrived. His thunderous entrance is not gracious or polite, but he brings gifts for everyone. A deluge of rain pours down over the hard earth, softening soil and soaking roots, feeding thirsty flora and fauna, andcoolingsearingsidewalks,streets,

asphalt and chrome. With rain pelting the windows and thunder rumbling over the house, I don’t feel wasteful being indoors anymore, because seeking shelter is justiﬁed during a summer thunderstorm. I curl up with my laptop, safe and sound. The giant departs as quickly as he arrived, and as his cloak of clouds trails off with him, the sun appears again. For once, I am glad to see her. I walk out onto the porch again, and along with the hydrangea blooms, I turn my face upward in appreciation. The actors in this neighborhood play are the same but the story has changed dramatically. I see steam rising from the street. I smell the wet grass. I hear birds chirping excitedly. Rested and refreshed, my world is alive again.

(SHUTTERSTOCK PHOTO)

The Perfect Business Partner

Has years of business experience. Doesn’t request the corner ofﬁce. Always has the inside scoop on business trends.

NEWS

News you can use and reports about Hampton Roads from a business perspective.

FEATURES

In-depth proﬁles of local companies and business leaders, trends from around the country that are taking hold in Hampton Roads.

LEADS

DATA: A business community bulletin board of the latest acquisitions, mergers, new products, community service and other achievements of Hampton Roads businesses. CALENDAR: The most comprehensive listing of the area’s meetings, events and networking opportunities. PUBLIC RECORDS: Weekly listings of new business licenses and new corporations.

PEOPLE

Briefs about promotions, new hires, retirements, certiﬁcations and other achievements of those in the local business community.

EXPERT COLUMNS

Local professionals in the areas of law, ﬁnance, management, sales and more, offer advice and updates of what’s happening within their industries.

SPECIAL REPORTS

Inside Business offers quarterly, semiannual special reports with the latest developments, trends and proﬁles of companies and people in a wide variety of industries.

SPECIAL EVENTS & PUBLICATIONS

Inside Business publishes special projects coordinated with events to recognize the Top Forty Under 40, Best Places to Work, Women in Business and many more.

49 $ 69 $ 89 $

For one year of weekly issues For two years of weekly issues For three years of weekly issues

www.insidebiz.com/subscribe

ﬂagshipnews.com | Section C | Thursday, August 20, 2026

RISK OF PREDIABETES: 1 IN 3 ADULTS

LIFE DOESN’T ALWAYS GIVE YOU TIME TO CHANGE THE OUTCOME. PREDIABETES DOES. RISK OF SHARK ATTACK: 1 IN 11.5 MILLION

TAKE THE RISK TEST TODAY AT

DoIHavePrediabetes.org

ﬂagshipnews.com | Section C | Thursday, August 20, 2026

FOOD

Simple yet fun school-day meals to feed your kids By Feature Impact SOURCE: HEALTHY FAMILY PROJECT

When it comes to planning lunches and dinners on busy school days, simplicity is the name of the game. Parents who are already juggling carpools, practices, errands and homework don’t need anything extra added to their plates while they’re trying to get food onto everyone else’s. Choosing uncomplicated meal ideas like these back-toschool recipes lets you reclaim some precious time from the morning and evening chaos. Designed to fit seamlessly into your existing routines, the recipes are familiar, flexible and filling — and, perhaps most importantly, won’t keep you standing at the stove for hours. Make it easy for your loved ones with Healthy Family Project’s registered dietitian-approved meal ideas packed with the nutrition to keep your family fueled all day. Visit HealthyFamilyProject.com to find more easy, family-friendly recipes for back-to-school season.

until golden and cooked through. Let the pancake bites cool slightly. Stir the Greek yogurt with honey or maple syrup, if using, for a simple dip. Pack the mini lemon blueberry pancakes in a lunch box or snack box with extra Consalo blueberries, banana slices, and the Greek yogurt dip. Quick tips: Use a mini ice cream scoop to scoop batter onto the pan. If you have a ﬁsh spatula, it has a thinner edge making it easier to ﬂip pancakes.

Heat oil in large skillet over medium high heat. Add turkey, onion and peppers. Cook 7-10 minutes, or until turkey is cooked through. Mix paprika, sugar, salt and chili powder in small bowl. Add to turkey and stir. Add water, milk, tomato paste and pasta. Mix well. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer 10 minutes, or until pasta is cooked and liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and top with cheese.

Greek Salad with Cucumbers, Tomatoes and Watermelon Tomato Turkey Burger Bowls

Mandarin Chicken Rice Bowls

This fresh, fun dinner starts with a base of rice topped withjuicymandarinslices,savorychicken,freshvegetables and a bright citrus dressing. Plus, it’s easily customizable to each family member’s tastes and preferences. Servings: 4 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa 2 cups cooked chicken sliced or shredded 3 to 4 Bee Sweet mandarins peeled and segmented 1 cup sliced cucumbers 1 cup shredded carrots 1 cup shelled edamame cooked and cooled ¼ cup sliced green onions optional 1 tablespoon sesame seeds optional For the Mandarin Citrus Vinaigrette: ¼ cup fresh Bee Sweet mandarin juice 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar 1 to 2 teaspoons honey 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard optional Salt and pepper to taste If needed, prepare the brown rice or quinoa according to package directions. Allow it to cool slightly before assembling the bowls. Add the mandarin juice, olive oil, vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard, if using, to a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper and whisk until combined. Divide the cooked brown rice or quinoa evenly among four bowls. Top each bowl with the cooked chicken, Bee Sweet mandarin segments, cucumbers, shredded carrots, and edamame. Drizzle the mandarin citrus vinaigrette over each bowl. Top with sliced green onions and sesame seeds, if desired. Serve immediately, or refrigerate the ingredients separately for an easy lunch the next day. Notes: The preparation time assumes the chicken and brown rice or quinoa are already cooked. Rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken works well and makes this recipe especially quick to assemble. For meal prep, store the vinaigrette and mandarin segments separately from the rice, chicken, and vegetables. Add them just before serving to keep everything fresh.

Burger night gets a healthy twist in this creative recipe, which swaps a beef patty for lean ground turkey and oily French fries for roasted potato wedges while leaning into classic toppings like lettuce, tomatoes and pickles. If the kids still prefer their burgers as sandwiches instead of bowls, provide buns on the side so they can build their own. Servings: 4 For the Bowls: 1 pound lean ground turkey 1 tablespoon olive oil divided 1 teaspoon garlic powder divided 1 teaspoon onion powder divided ½ teaspoon paprika ½ teaspoon salt divided ¼ teaspoon black pepper 4 medium potatoes cut into wedges 6 cups chopped romaine or lettuce of choice 2 cups chopped Nature Fresh Farms Devours™ Tomatoes ½ cup sliced pickles ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese For the Greek Yogurt Burger Sauce: ½ cup plain Greek yogurt 2 tablespoons ketchup 1 tablespoon mustard 1 tablespoon ﬁnely chopped pickles or relish 1 teaspoon pickle juice ½ teaspoon garlic powder ½ teaspoon onion powder Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Add potato wedges to the baking sheet. Drizzle with 2 teaspoons olive oil and season with paprika, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ¼ teaspoon salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, ﬂipping halfway through, until potatoes are golden and tender. To air fry, cook at 400°F for 15 to 18 minutes, shaking halfway through. While potatoes cook, heat remaining olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground turkey, remaining garlic powder, remaining onion powder, and remaining salt. Cook for 7 to 9 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon, until fully cooked. Turkey can also be formed into small burger-style patties, if preferred. In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, ketchup, mustard, chopped pickles or relish, pickle juice, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth. Divide lettuce among bowls. Top with cooked turkey, roasted potato wedges, chopped Devours™ Tomatoes, pickles, and shredded cheddar cheese. Drizzle with Greek yogurt burger sauce or serve the sauce on the side for dipping. Serve with whole grain buns on the side, if desired. Notes For younger kids, serve the ingredients deconstructed so they can build their own plate. For meal prep, cook the turkey and potatoes ahead of time and store separately from the lettuce, tomatoes, and sauce. For lunchboxes, pack the sauce on the side to keep the ingredients fresh. For sandwich skewers, layer whole grain bread cubes, turkey, cheese, lettuce, and Devours™ Tomatoes on small skewers or food picks. Whole grain buns can be served on the side for a more traditional burger-night option.

Lemon Blueberry Pancake Lunchbox Bites

Add the oats, eggs, cottage cheese or Greek yogurt, banana, vanilla, baking powder, lemon juice, and lemon zest to a blender. Blend until mostly smooth. Let the batter rest for 5 minutes so the oats can soften slightly and batter will thicken. Gently fold in the fresh Consalo blueberries. Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat and lightly grease if needed. Scoop small portions of batter onto the skillet to make mini pancakes, about 2 tablespoons each. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until bubbles form and the edges begin to set. Flip and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes

Servings: 4 Salad: 1 package SUNSET® Pop Its™ cut into thirds 4 cups of tomatoes 3 cups watermelon cubed 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves Dressing: 1/3 cup red wine vinegar 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon minced fresh garlic 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 cup olive oil In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper and olive oil until well combined. Add the Pop Its™, tomatoes, watermelon, feta and mint to a large bowl. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss until everything is lightly coated. Serve immediately.

Easy Quesadilla Dippers

Cookie cutters aren’t just for cookies anymore. Eating is generally less of a battle for kids when their food is in fun shapes, so let them choose their star, heart, gingerbread man or dinosaur to make these quesadillas more craveable. Fillings are flexible, too: layer cheese with chicken, beans or cooked veggies of your choice then serve with a side of salsa or guacamole for dipping. Servings: 2 4 8 inch flour or whole wheat tortillas 1 cup shredded Mexican-style cheese blend cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese ½ cup cooked chicken beans, or sautéed veggies, optional 2 ¡Yo Quiero! Grab-and-Go Cups ½ cup sliced cucumbers ½ cup baby carrots ½ cup bell pepper strips ½ cup cherry tomatoes Fruit or another favorite lunchbox side Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with shredded cheese. Add cooked chicken, beans, or sautéed veggies, if using. Top with a second tortilla and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the bottom is golden and the cheese begins to melt. Carefully flip and cook the other side for another 2 to 3 minutes, until golden and warmed through. Remove from the skillet and let cool slightly. Use cookie cutters to cut the quesadilla into fun shapes, such as stars, hearts, circles, or gingerbread people. Pack the quesadilla dippers in a lunchbox with a Yo Quiero! Grab-and-Go Cup, sliced cucumbers, baby carrots, bell pepper strips, cherry tomatoes, and fruit.

To make your kids’ eyes light up when they open their lunchboxes, opt for recipes that feel a little playful. These mini pancakes paired with colorful fruits deﬁnitely ﬁt the bill, and they’re a great way to disguise nutritious ingredients like oats, eggs and bananas. Include a cup of yogurt on the side to make lunch dippable and interactive. Servings: 6 For the pancake bites: 1 cup rolled oats 2 large eggs 1/2 cup cottage cheese or plain Greek yogurt 1 ripe banana 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 teaspoon lemon zest 1 cup fresh Consalo blueberries For serving: 1/2 to 1 cup plain or vanilla Greek yogurt 1 to 2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup optional Extra Consalo blueberries 1 banana sliced

Whether you pack them as a healthy school lunchbox side or serve as a refreshing after-school snack, these salad cups keep weekday ﬂavors fresh and interesting. The combination of cucumbers, watermelon, tomatoes, feta and mint means your loved ones are getting fruits, veggies, protein and herbs all in one. For on-the-go enjoyment, remember to pack the dressing on the side.

One-Pot Cheeseburger Mac

If just imagining a sink full of dishes makes you tired, that means it’s the kind of night for a one-pot dinner. Pasta, cheese, tomatoes and onions combine with your choice of protein for a hearty and satisfying comfort meal that might remind you of your own childhood. Servings: 6 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 pound lean ground turkey 1 small RealSweet® sweet onion ﬁnely chopped 1 cup mini sweet peppers chopped 1½ teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon sugar 1 /2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon chili powder 1½ cup water 1 cup milk 3 tablespoons tomato paste 1½ cup whole grain dry macaroni 1 cup shredded lowfat Cheddar cheese

Lunchbox Tip: Let the quesadilla cool before packing so it stays ﬁrm and easy to dip. Pack the Yo Quiero! Graband-Go Cup alongside fresh produce so kids can dip, scoop, and build their own bites.

ﬂagshipnews.com | Section C | Thursday, August 20, 2026

HEALTH

Traveling overseas? Here’s how TRICARE travels with you By TRICARE Communications

FALLS CHURCH, Va. — Do you have an upcomingtripoverseas?Whetheryou’retraveling for work or for fun, TRICARE covers you worldwide. Understanding how your TRICARE plan works when you go abroad helps you be prepared if any health issues arise. “Most travelers won’t need medical care during their trip, but if you do, you don’t want to be caught off guard by the process,” said Michelle Donnelly, program analyst, TRICARE Overseas Program, TRICARE Health Plan, at the Defense Health Agency. “Taking time to understand your coverage and prepare before leaving will save you stress and confusion if you need care while traveling.” Check out these tips for preparing for your trip and getting care during your trip.

Before you travel 1. Getallroutinecare(alsoknownasprimary care) and specialty care before you travel. 2. Check your prescriptions. Make sure you’ll have enough of your medications for your whole trip. Fill or reﬁll your prescriptions before your trip. If you tell your doctor about your upcoming travel, they can authorize up to a 90-day supply. Keep in mind that some prescription drugs that are legal in the U.S. are banned in some countries. Examples can include stimulants and narcotics, as described by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns. 3. Pack important documents and information. Bring your Uniformed Services ID card and your proof of TRICARE coverage. Also bring a list of your medical conditions, medications, and emergency contacts. 4. Learn your plan’s rules for getting care overseas. Different TRICARE plans have different rules for getting care, including when you get care when traveling.

Getting care while traveling overseas

Here are some important tips to keep in mind: The process for getting care when traveling depends on your TRICARE plan and the type of care you need. If you get care overseas, you may need to pay for the full cost of this care up front. Save all receipts so you can ﬁle a claim for reimbursement. EMERGENCY CARE

If you need emergency care, go to the closest emergency facility. If you don’t know where one is located or aren’t sure what to do, you can call the TRICARE Overseas Program contractor, International SOS, for 24/7 assistance. Are you using a TRICARE Prime option? If you get care at an emergency facility, call the International SOS Medical Assistance number before you leave. (The number you call is based on which overseas area you’re in.) If you’re admitted, International SOS will

By understanding your plan’s rules and planning ahead, you travel with the conﬁdence that TRICARE has you covered.

coordinate with the facility for payment and determine if you should be transferred to another facility. International SOS will also coordinate emergency transport, if needed.

Use a network pharmacy (available in most U.S. territories). Go to a non-network pharmacy, if needed. If you use a non-network pharmacy, you can file a pharmacy claim for reimbursement. URGENT CARE TRICARE Pharmacy Home Delivery may TRICARE Prime Options: Try to get work for long trips, but don’t use it for mediurgent care from a military hospital or cation you need right away. clinic, when possible. If this isn’t possible, call International SOS for pre-authorization. Without pre-authorization, you may have to After your trip pay the provider up front and file a claim for reimbursement. FOLLOW-UP CARE All other TRICARE plans: You can If you got care while traveling overseas: get care from any TRICARE-authorized Contact your primary care manager or provider.You’llpaylessoutofpocketifyousee provider. a network provider. To find a TRICARE over- Keep medical records and give them to seas network provider, use the International your PCM or primary care provider. SOS TRICARE Overseas Provider Search Tool (online at https://tricare-overseas.com/ FILING CLAIMS beneficiaries/resources/provider-search). Did you pay for medical services up front? You can also call International SOS. You can file a claim for reimbursement. For health advice: You can call the Global Be sure to include all required documenNurse Advice Line. Nurses are available 24/7. tation with your completed claim form They can help you decide if you need imme- (DD Form 2642). Required documentation diate care or if your condition can wait until includes itemized bills, receipts, and proof you return home. of payment. And be sure to send your claim to the correct claims address: If you got care while traveling in a U.S. terriFilling prescriptions while tory, send your claim to the claims address for traveling your regional contractor. If you need prescription medication during If you got care while traveling somewhere your trip, you have options: else overseas, use the claims address for the Visit a nearby military pharmacy. (Call first location where you got care. You may also be to check if they have your medication.) able to file a claim online.

If you have other health insurance or bought travel health insurance, you must file claims with them before filing with TRICARE. The amount of time you have to file a claim is based on where you got care. You have: One year from the date of service to file a claim for care you get in a U.S. territory Three years from the date of service to file a claim for care in all other overseas locations TRICARE will reimburse you based on the TRICARE-allowable charge for the care you got. As noted in the TRICARE Overseas Program Handbook (online at https://tricare. mil/overseashb): Outside the U.S. and U.S. territories, nonparticipating non-network providers can charge any amount for care. You’re responsible for paying any amount above the TRICARE-allowable charge, in addition to your deductible and cost-shares. If you get a medical bill and you aren’t what to do, contact your TRICARE regional contractor. By understanding your plan’s rules and planning ahead, you travel with the confidence that TRICARE has you covered. To learn more, check out Getting Care While Traveling (online at https://tricare.mil/traveling). Would you like the latest TRICARE news sent to you by email? Visit TRICARE Subscriptions to get benefit updates, news, and more.

ﬂagshipnews.com | Section C | Thursday, August 20, 2026

To place an ad, go to placeanad. pilotonline.com or call 757.622.1455

Antiques & Collectibles

Lawn & Garden

#01A Black Siff ed TOPSOIL 6 yds $300. Mulch $32/yd; Compost $42/yd. Rock, playground mulch, ﬁrewood, lawn care. D Miller's 536-3052

Doors, Siding & Windows BEST PRICE EXTERIORS

Siding, Windows, Rooﬁng, Sofﬁt, Trim, Gutters. Licensed. & Insured. A+ BBB. Call 757-639-4692. Handyman

★GENERAL REPAIRS★

AFFORDABLE ★ All Handyman, Complete Repair Int & Ext: A-Z Jobs, Rot Repair, Bathrooms, & Alterations 35 Yrs. Exp. BBB A+ Rating. 757-430-2612. ★

Creating your own ad in this publication is easy, affordable and will reach thousands in print

Antiques & Classics

and online. Advertising categories include:

Laughoutloud! CHECKOUTTHE COMICSINTHE SUNDAYPILOT

• Announcements & celebrations • Merchandise & cars for sale • Job recruitment • Honoring a life • Pets for adoption And more Place your ad today!

PlaceAnAd.tribpub.com

ﬂagshipnews.com | Section C | Thursday, August 20, 2026

Crossword

TOOTIN’ MAD

Sudoku

MEASURED WORDS

CryptoQuip

When a particular coniferous tree felt a freaky prickly sensation, that was pine-tingling.

GLOVES

LAST WEEK’S CROSSWORD & SUDOKU ANSWERS:

Religious Services For your installation’s religious service times visit: www.ﬂagshipnews.com⁄ base_information⁄religious_services

ﬂagshipnews.com | Section C | Thursday, August 20, 2026