The Flagship 10.02.2025

JEB Little Creek celebrates the Navy’s 250th birthday with a BBQ and country music concert

By Mass Communication Specialist

1st Class Cody Beam

NORFOLK, Va. — Joint Expeditionary

Base Little Creek (JEB LC) kicked off the Navy and Marine Corps’ 250th Birthday Celebration by hosting a backyard barbeque and concert, Sept 27.

The event featured guest speakers, Secretary of the Navy, John Phelan, and Chief of Naval Operations, Adm. Daryl Caudle, as well as a performance by Academy of Country Music Awards-nominated artist, Conner Smith.

“I’m thrilled to kick of our 250th birthday right here. Right in the greatest naval base in the world,” said Caudle. “It’s a tremendous night.”

Caudle used the opportunity to highlight his priorities: the foundry, the fleet, and the way we fight. Caudle emphasized the importance of investing in Sailors and their quality of life to the guests in attendance.

“They get to wear the uniform. You get

to share the honor, and we get to share the pride,” said Phelan. “The Navy is committed to building a warfighter culture that is adaptive, accountable, and innovative, and improving the health, welfare, and training of Sailors and Marines.”

More than 1000 Sailors and their families from over 15 commands attended to celebrate the kick-off event in the Navy-Marine Corps 250th birthday celebrations and enjoyed a variety of barbecue foods, games, and music.

The event culminated in a performance by Conner Smith backdropped by two Landing Craft Air Cushions (LCAC) assigned to Assault Craft Unit Four.

For up-to-date information on all NMC250 events, visit the official website: https://www.navy.mil/Navy-250/Events/ Join the conversation on social media by using the hashtags #NMC250, #NavyBirthday

By Chief Petty Officer Elizabeth Reisen Navy Region Mid-Atlantic

The cities of Philadelphia and Camden will host the Navy Marine Corps 250 celebration October 9-16, 2025, with four U.S. Navy ships, two Coast Guard cutters, and four U.S. Navy Academy Yard Patrol boats (YPs) and sailboats. These vessels will participate in the Parade of Ships on Thursday, Oct 9. USS Arlington (LPD 24) - https://www.surflant.usff. navy.mil/LPD24/, USS Lassen (DDG 82) - https://www. surflant.usff.navy.mil/ddg82/, USS Cooperstown (LCS 23) - https://www.surflant.usff.navy.mil/lcs23/, USS Billings (LCS 15) - https://www.surflant.usff.navy.mil/lcs15/, USCGC Lawrence Lawson (WPC 1120), and USCGC James Rankin (WLM 555) will be available for public ship tours Oct 10-15.

Ship and pier locations include: Philadelphia, Penn’s Landing: (Ship public tours Oct 10-14 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Oct 15 from 10 a.m. — 1 p.m.) „ Freedom-class littoral combat ship, USS Cooperstown

Virginia Beach native, Miss Virginia USA,

with the Blue Angels and inspires NASOceana’s

ByKatieHewett NavalAir Station Oceana

Miss Virginia USAErin Houston haswornmany crowns in herlife, but fewexperiencescompare to wearing aflighthelmetinthe back seatofaU.S.Navy Blue Angels F/A-18 with U.S. UnitedStates Navy Blue Angels PilotMaj.Scott Laux.

Selectedasthisyear’sKeyInfluencerRider,Houston joinedtheworld-famousdemonstrationsquadronfora once-in-a-lifetimeflight over her hometown aspart of the2025NASOceanaAirShow.ForHouston,aVirginia BeachnativeandgraduateofCoxHighSchool,theride wasmorethanathrill—itwasareminderoftheNavy’s deep connection to the HamptonRoads community “Flyingwith theBlue Angels wasanabsolutely electric experience,” Houston said.“The precision, teamwork, and trustthat go into everymaneuverare incredible.Tohavethat opportunity right hereinthe citywhere Igrewup— duringthe celebrationof250 years of America’sNavy—was beyond special.”

Beforeher flight, Houston spent timewithchildren at NASOceana’sSharon A. Preston ChildDevelopment Center,whereshe wasgreeted withthe contagiousexcitementfromthebase’syoungestcommunity members. Shejoined thechildrenfor storytime, answered questions,and encouragedthem to dream big

“Thekidsweresofullofenergyandcuriosity,”Houston said. “Being amilitary childmyself, theyreminded me of my ownexperiences at CDCs just likethisone, and howbig of an impact these centersmakeonthe lives of service members and their families.”

NASOceana’s Sharon A. Preston CDC provides high-quality careand early education programs that support the developmental growth ofNavychildren and the readiness of their families.

Oceana, provide high-quality,affordable childcare and recreational programs to supportmilitaryfamilies by ensuring childrenreceivesafe andenriching carewhiletheirparentsserve.Theirmission“Ouristo offer developmentally appropriate programs, fosteringindependence,trust,andresponsibilityinchildren, whilealsosupportingmilitaryreadinessandretention by providing reliable childcaremission is to giveNavy families peace of mind by providing safe,nurturing, andeducationalenvironmentsfortheirchildren,”said Nancy Byrne,NAS Oceana’sChildand YouthProgram installation director.“Having Erin visit broughtso much joytothe kids and reinforced the messagethat they,too,are part of theNavyfamily. It’s wonderful forthem to seesomeonefromtheirown community encouraging them to dreambig.”

TheBlueAngels’KeyInfluencerprogramgiveslocal leaders androle modelsanopportunity to experience aflightinone of theteam’s F/A-18 Super Hornets. The program is designed to highlight peoplewho have a positive impact on their communities andwho can sharetheNavy’sstorythroughtheirownnetworks.As MissVirginiaUSA,Houstonwasselectedforherleadership, service,and ability to inspire others,especially young people NASOceana’sCommandingOfficer Capt. Josh Appezzato said Houston’s selection wasa natural fit for this year’s theme.

“Erin representsthe best of Virginia Beach— leadership,talent, and aheartfor service,” Appezzato said. “Her experience withthe Blue Angelsand hertime with Team Oceana’s youngestmembersembodies the spiritoftheNASOceanaAirShowandtheNavy’s250th anniversary”

PrestonChild

ofCoxHighSchool,wasselected

VIRGINIABEACH,Va.(Sept.18,2025)AviationStructural

before akeyinfluencerflight onboardNavalAirStation (NAS) Oceana,Sept.18.Houston,aVirginia

ofCoxHighSchool,wasselected to flyin the backseat ofBlueAngel #7 as the BlueAngels’KeyInfluencerriderforthe 2025 NAS OceanaAirShow.Thisyear’sshowcommemorates 250yearsofAmerica’s Navy,honoringits legacy,innovation,and enduring strength.(U.S.NAVYPHOTOBYMASSCOMMUNICATIONSPECIALIST2NDCLASSKAITLINYOUNG)

U.S. Navy and Marine Corps Bands to perform during the Navy and Marine Corps250th birthday celebration

ByChiefPettyOfficerElizabethReisen

Navy Region Mid-Atlantic

U.S. Navy and Marine Corps bands will beperformingatvariouslocationsinPhiladelphia,P.A.andCamden,N.J.aspartofthe Navy andMarineCorps 250thcelebration October9-16,2025.TheNavy250thisOct13 andMarineCorps250thisNov.10

All Performances arefree and open to the public:

„ October 10,7:30 —8:30 p.m.: U.S. Navy Band Commodores at the Philadelphia MuseumofArt

„ October 11, 7—10 a.m.: 2nd Marine DivisionBandattheUSN/USMC2.50Mile Runatthe USMC Parade Ground, Navy Yard,Philadelphia.

„ October 11, 9:30a.m. —1 p.m.:U.S.Navy Band Country Current and the 2nd Marine Division Band at theNMC250 Aviation Event at the USMC Parade Ground, Navy Yard,Philadelphia.

„ October12, Noon —5 p.m.: U.S. Navy Band Country Current and the 2nd Marine Division Band at theAll-Veterans Reunion Picnic, Independence Mall, 615 Chestnut St,Philadelphia.

„ October 12,7:30 p.m.: “Victory at Sea” Concert, Independence Mall, 615 Chestnut St,Philadelphia.

„ October 13,11a.m.: U.S. Navy Band and the 2nd Marine Division Band at the Navy &Marine Corps 250 Parade,John F. KennedyBlvd.&20thStto520ChestnutSt (IndependenceHall),Philadelphia

„ October 13,2—3 p.m.: Navy 250th CommemorationatIndependenceHall,520 ChestnutSt,Philadelphia.

„ October 13,5:30 p.m.—6:30 p.m.: Fireworks over DelawareRiver,U.S.Navy BandCruisersattheLazyHammockStage, Philadelphia; 2nd Marine Division Band will performatthe WigginsWaterfront Riverstage,Camden,NewJersey

„ October14,4:30p.m.—5p.m.:2ndMarine Division Band andSilent DrillPlatoon performance at Independence Mall, 615 ChestnutSt,Philadelphia.

„ October15,4:30p.m.—5p.m.:2ndMarine Division Band andSilent DrillPlatoon performance at Independence Mall, 615 ChestnutSt,Philadelphia.

About your U.S. Navy and Marine Corps bands:

TheU.S.NavyBandCruiserswasformed

in 1999 and takes its name from the Navy’s versatile, flexible,multi-missioned ship— theCruiser—and the band lives up to its namesake with thecapability of playing a variety of musical genres ranging from jazz standards,rhythm &blues,classicrock, adultcontemporaryandpop,aswellasoriginalmaterial.

The U.S. Navy Band Commodores has been performingthe very bestofbig band jazzfortheNavyandthenationfor50years Formedin1969,this 18-member group continuesthe jazz big band legacy with some of the finestmusicians in the world. TheCommodores’ mission includes public concerts,national concert tours,ceremonial support in honoring ourveterans, jazz educationclasses and clinics,and protocol performances for military and civilian governmentofficials.

TheU.S.NavyBandCountryisnationally renowned forits versatilityand fantastic musicianship,performingablendofmodern country music and cutting-edge bluegrass

This seven-memberensemble employs musicians from diverse backgrounds with extensivehigh-profilerecordingandtouring experienceinthemusicscenesofNashville, NewYork,NewOrleansandmore.

The2nd Marine Division Band -“The Division’sOwn”-wasformedduringWorld

WarIIandprovidesmusicalsupportforthe fivemajorcommandsand47,000Marinesto whom Camp Lejeune is home.Known for theirmarchingprecisionandmusicalexcellence,themembersof“TheDivision’sOwn” areproud of their role as musical ambassadorsfortheMarineCorps

“Weare thrilled to celebratethe 250th birthdayofour Navy and Marine Corps in Philadelphianotjustwithshipsandaircraft, butwith performances for audiences of all ages,” said U.S. Navy Band commanding officerCapt.Robert“Seph”Coats.“Atevery show, we come togetherwith the community to honorthe traditionofnaval service andtoinspiretheSailorsoftomorrow.”

“WearethrilledtoreturntoPhiladelphia, the birthplace of the MarineCorps,where ourlegacybeganin1775,”saidChiefWarrant Officer4 Mark Pellon,Directorofthe 2d Marine Division Band.“We willcelebrate the250th birthdayofthe Navy and Marine Corpswiththesamededicationandenthusiasmourservicesbringeveryday.”

Media interested in covering any NMC250 events should contact the Public Affairs Office at (757) 322-2853for more information. Forup-to-date information on all NMC250 events,visit theofficial website: https://www.navy.mil/navy-250/events/

USS Normandy (CG 60) decommissions after nearly 36 years of service

CourtesyStory

Commander Naval Surface Force Atlantic

NORFOLK, Va Ticonderoga-class guided-missilecruiserUSSNormandy(CG 60), was recognized for nearly 36 years of naval service during the decommissioning ceremony at Naval Station Norfolk, Sept. 25th,2025

Hundreds gathered to celebrate the ship’sdistinguishedhistoryofnavalservice Normandy’s Commanding Officer Capt. Nathan P. Diaz spoke of the ship’s legacy anditscrew

“The final chapter in Normandy’s rich history comes to an end,” said Capt. Diaz. “Herspirit,whattrulybringstheshiptolife, lives on inside every one of her Sailors I’m proud to be a part of her legacy, leading by example to all ships on the waterfront and showingthemwhatrightlookslike.”

U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Derek Trinque Director, Surface Warfare Division N96, Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, delivered the keynote address, offering words of encouragement to the crew and reflecting on the ship’s proud legacy “Normandyhaslaunchedincombat,trained withalliesandpartners,respondedincrisis, and stood ready for the call—always,” said Rear Adm. Trinque “Today, she comes to rest with pride with dignity, with a record unmatched, and a legacy that will never be forgotten.

USS Normandy participated in a multitude of operations and exercises, contributing significantly to U.S. naval power projection and security From enforcing no-fly zones to conducting maritime security operations the ship demonstrated versatility and capability across a range of missionprofiles

OneofthenotablemilestonesinNormandy’s history was that she was the first U.S. Navy warship since 1945 to go to war on her maiden voyage Tasked with providing air defense and maritime security, the ship played a vital role in the early stages of the Gulf War, showcasing the Navy’s ability to respond swiftly to emerging threats and support the multinational effort to free Kuwait.

U.S.NavySailors assigned to USS Normandy(CG 60),aTiconderoga-class guided-missile cruiser,stand in formation during the decommissioning

The ship’s prowess was further demonstrated during Operation Deliberate Force, where she launched 13 tomahawk missiles at various Bosnian-Serb command and control sites. From conducting long range precision strikes, enforcing a naval blockade, and providing humanitarian relief, USS Normandy contributed to the success of coalition efforts to stabilize Bosnia and Herzegovina Additionally the ship played a key role in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations, providing aid to regions devastated by natural disasters such as the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami and the 2011 earthquake and tsunami in Japan. These opera-

tions underscored the Navy’s commitment toglobalstabilityandhumanitarianvalues

Thefirstshiptobearthename,Normandy wasbuiltinBath,Maine,andcommissioned December 9th, 1989, in Newport, Rhode Island. Named after the pivotal Allied invasionatNormandy,FranceduringWorldWar II, the ship has faithfully served the nation formorethanthreedecades embodyingthe valor and resilience of the legendary landingsthatledtoaliberatedEurope

After the decommissioning and inactivation, the ship will be towed to the Navy’s InactiveShipfacilityinPhiladelphia,PennsylvaniawhereitwillbeinaLogisticSupport Asset(LSA)status COMNAVSURFLANT mans, trains, and equips assigned surface forces and shore activities, ensuring a capable force for conductingpromptandsustainedoperations in support of United States national interests The SURFLANT force is composed of 71shipsand31shorecommands For more SURFLANT news and photos, visit Facebook.com/SURFLANT, www surflant.usff.navy.mil.

USS Philippine Sea (CG 58) decommissions after 36 years of Naval service

CourtesyStory

Commander, Naval Surface Force Atlantic

NORFOLK,Va TheTiconderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Philippine Sea (CG 58) was officially decommissioned during a ceremony onboard Naval Station NorfolkonSept.25 2025.

Hundreds gathered, including plank owners, former crew members, family, and guests, to honor the ship’s distinguished 36 yearsofnavalservice

Vice Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Kilby W. James, delivered the keynote address,offeringwordsofencouragementto the crew and reflecting on the ship’s proud legacy

“I served on Philippine Sea over 35 years ago,andIamproudofwhatthisshipandall whohaveservedonherhaveaccomplished,” said Kilby. “Whenever something significantwashappeningintheworld,Philippine Sea was there: Desert Storm, the Balkans, Afghanistan and Iraq, the Motor Vessel Ever Given blocking the Suez, the Chinese surveillance balloon, and most recently the Houthis in Yemen. This ship has made an impact on so many people and the history ofourNavyandNation.

U.S.NavyCapt. Steve L.Liberty, commanding officerofUSS Philippine Sea (CG

U.S. Coast

PORTSMOUTH, Va The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Spencer (WMEC 905) returnedtotheirhomeportinPortsmouth, Wednesday,concludingan83-daymaritime border security patrol in the Caribbean Sea andWindwardPassage Spencer’s crew deployed in support of Operation Vigilant Sentry while underway in the Coast Guard Southeast District area of responsibility Crew members worked with interagency and international partners, conducting maritime safety and security operations to deter unlawful migration andprotectAmerica’smaritimeborders While on patrol, Spencer watchstanders detectedadangerouslyoverloadedandunlit vessel at night off the coast of Haiti. Spencer’screwlaunchedthecutter’ssmallboatto assess the situation. Recognizing an immediaterisktolife,theboardingteamprovided life jackets and began transferring people to the cutter, safely embarking 191 aliens aboard Spencer Crew members provided medical screening, food, water and shelter whileconductingaccountabilityprocedures All aliens were later repatriated to Haiti in accordancewithU.S.lawandpolicy

“Spencer’s efforts over the last 83 days ensured the security of our nation’s Southeastern border and maritime approaches,” saidCmdr JustinStrock,commandingofficer of Spencer “This crew, in coordination with our federal and international partners,reinforcedtheCoastGuard’sabilityto prevent and deter illegal migration by sea. I am proud of this crew for their determination, dedication and teamwork throughout ourpatrol. OVSistheDepartmentofHomelandSecurity-ledoperationcomprisedoffederal,state and local partners responsible for preventing and responding to maritime migration.

“As the USS Philippine Sea sails into history,wehonorherlegacynotjustasaship ofsteel,butasasymbolofstrength,sacrifice, andunwaveringservice,”saidCapt.Liberty “Her decks carried generations of sailors whostoodwatchforfreedomandhername will forever echo across the oceans she so proudlyserved.

The ceremony was marked by a spirit of reflection and camaraderie, as current and

Capt. Steven L. Liberty, the ship’s final commanding officer who assumed command in February 2024, oversaw the decommissioningprocess

former crew shared memories and stories fromPhilippineSea’sextensiveoperational history, evoking moments of pride and sharedsacrifice Built in Bath, Maine, Philippine Sea’s keel was laid on April 8, 1986, and she was launched on July 12 1987. After completing seatrials thecruiserwascommissionedinto theAtlanticFleetonMarch18,1989,inPortland,Maine Philippine Sea is the only U.S. Navy warship named to honor the Allied inva-

sionofPhilippineSeaduringWorldWarII,a pivotalcampaignthatmarkedthebeginning of the liberation of Western Europe from Nazioccupation. Since her maiden deployment in 1990, Philippine Sea has played a vital role in the defense of the United States providing air defenseandcommandandcontrolcapabilities during numerous deployments worldwide Philippine Sea executed over 36 years of outstandingserviceindefenseofthenation, awardedeightBattleEffectivenessAwards, threeNavyUnitCommendations,andthree MeritoriousUnitCommendations Philippine Sea will officially be decommissioned on Sept. 26 and will later be transferred to the Navy’s Inactive Ships MaintenanceFacilityinPhiladelphia,where theywillenterlogisticalsupportassetstatus COMNAVSURFLANT mans, trains and equips assigned surface forces and shore activities, ensuring a capable force for conductingpromptandsustainedoperations in support of United States national interests The SURFLANT force is composed of 71shipsand31shorecommands For more SURFLANT news and photos, visit Facebook.com/SURFLANT, www surflant.usff.navy.mil.

NCR holds Chief Pinning Ceremony

ByPettyOfficer1stClassHeathZeigler

Naval Medical Leader & Professional Development Command

TheNationalCapitalRegionhelditsFiscal Year2026ChiefPettyOfficerPinningCeremony at Fort Belvoir Virginia, on September16 2025

15selecteescompletedsixweeksofrigorous training and team building exercises in preparationforupcomingchallengesasthey don their anchors. The ceremony included membersoftheU.S.Armywhowerepinned to chiefs alongside their Navy counterparts. This is not just an honorary title but completeacceptanceintotheChief’sMess “I remember 21 years ago when I put my anchors on, said Command Master Chief Anna Wood, Director, Senior Enlisted Leader Management Office, Office of the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy “It was an exciting time Wear those anchors withpridebutrememberthosethathelped youachievethisgreatmilestone.”

The following personnel were pinned to ChiefPettyOfficer:

„

„

„

„

„

„

(LCS-23)fromMayport,Florida „ USCGCLawrenceLawson(WPC1120) fromCapeMay,NewJerseyandUSCGC JamesRankin(WLM555)fromBaltimore, Maryland

„ U.S. Naval Academy Yard Patrol boat and SailboatfromAnnapolis,Maryland Philadelphia,Pier4:(ShippublictoursOct

DavonteMcCraven

„ U.S.NavyChiefHospitalCorpsmanMario Reese „ U.S. Navy Chief Hospital Corpsman TristanRicamona

„ U.S.Army1stSgt.ClassKodjoviSonokpon “Thiswasahugehonortobeapartofthis event,” said Sgt. 1st Class Davis “I truly feel

„ San Antonio-class amphibious transport dockUSSArlington(LPD-24)fromNorfolk, Virginia „ U.S. Naval Academy Yard Patrol boat and SailboatfromAnnapolis Maryland Gloucester City, NJ, Gloucester Marine Terminal:(ShippublictoursOct10-14,from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Oct 15 from 10 a.m. to 1p.m.)

that I have made new brothers and sisters here and will take this experience with me everywhereIgo.”

Various friends, family, and mentors pinned each of the newly promoted chiefs, amplifying the message: this journey is not intendedtobetraveledalone NMLPDC serves as the cornerstone of

„ Arleigh Burke-class Aegis guided missile destroyer USS Lassen (DDG-82) from Mayport,Florida

Camdenex-BattleshipNewJersey:(Ship publictoursOct10-14from10a.m.to4p.m. andOct15from10a.m.to1p.m.)

„ Freedom-class littoral combat ship USS Billings(LCS-15)fromMayport,Florida

Media interested in covering any NMC250 events can contact the Regional Public Affairs Office at (757) 322-2853 for

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moreinformation. Vice Admiral John Gumbleton, Acting Commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Commandhttps://www.navy.mil/Leadership/Flag-Officer-Biographies/Search/Article/2236432/ vice-admiral-john-gumbleton/ For up-to-date information on all NMC250 events visit the official website: https://www.navy.mil/Navy-250/Events/ Join the conversation on social media by usingthehashtags#NMC250,#NavyBirthday

Time-honored tradition, new Chiefs pinned at NSA Hampton Roads

ByAviationBoatswainMate2ndClass

NSA Hampton Roads

NORFOLK, Va In a ceremony steeped inNavytraditionandpride,fiveoutstanding Sailors from Naval Support Activity (NSA) Hampton Roads were advanced to the pay grade of chief petty officer on Sept. 16 The ceremonymarkedapowerfultransitionfor Chief Boatswain’s Mate Nicholas Morgan, ChiefMachineryRepairmanTiffanyTrombley,ChiefAviationBoatswain’sMate(Fuels)

Anjessica Gabriel, Chief Aviation Boatswain’sMate(Fuels)EmmettClarkson,and Chief Operations Specialist Craig Orris, as they officially joined the ranks of the U.S. Navy’schief’smess Held aboard NSA Hampton Roads the ceremonybroughttogetherSailors families, andleadershipincelebrationofamilestone thatsignifiesmorethanjustadvancement it signifies trust, leadership, and the weight oflegacy

“The Navy’s Chief Petty Officer pinning ceremonyismorethanasimplepromotion; thisceremonymarksafundamentalshiftin a Sailor’s career and is a public celebration of their hard-earned achievements,” said NSA Hampton Roads Command Master Chief William Palmer This solemn event which culminates a demanding selection and training process, recognizes a Sailor’s technical expertise, unwavering leadership skills,anddeepcommitmenttoourNavy It is a moment for family, friends, and fellow

shipmates to witness a new generation of leadersstepforward,readytoguide,mentor, andinspire

Eachofthefivenewchiefscompletedthe time-honoredprocessofChiefPettyOfficer TrainingandInitiationSeason.Designedto

test mental endurance, professional judgment,humility,andleadership thisperiod challengesSailorstogrowbeyondtheirrate and into the deeper responsibilities that comewithwearinganchors “TheChiefPettyOfficerInitiationprocess

is a demanding and transformative process often referred to as “Chief Season, said Palmer “This training period is designed to strengthen and refine a Sailor’s leadership abilities, resilience, and commitment. Duringthistime,Sailorslearntorelyoneach other, solve problems under pressure, and internalize the profound responsibility of becoming a CPO “Chief Season” ensures that when a Sailor puts on the gold fouled anchor they aren’t just receiving a new rank—theyarepreparedtoserveasatrusted andcapableleader

During the ceremony, family members and mentors proudly stepped forward to pin anchors on each Chief’s uniform a momentfilledwithpride,emotion,anddeep meaning

“To wear these anchors is a privilege I don’t take lightly,” said Trombley “I’ve watched great chiefs lead from the front, and I’m ready to carry that torch. Now it’s myturntosetthestandard.

From the first salute of the day, to the final notes of “Anchors Aweigh,” the ceremonywasapowerfulreminderoftheNavy’s commitmenttodevelopingenlistedleaders withstrength,character,andintegrity For Chiefs Morgan, Trombley Gabriel, Clarkson and Orris the journey does not end with pinning it begins The charge to lead from the deckplates, to mentor the next generation, and to uphold the values of the chief petty officer community is now theirstocarry Anchorson.Chargeaccepted.

USS New Mexico (SSN 779) returns to Naval Station Norfolk

ByPettyOfficer2ndClassAceFoster

executedNATO’sDynamicMessengerexercise contributingtojointforceobjectives “TeamNewMexicoisexcitedtobehome withfamilyandfriends,andequallyexcited for the opportunity to once again project submarine dominance in theater,” said Cmdr Hector Marin, commanding officer ofUSSNewMexico Family and friends welcomed home the crew during a Return to Home Port ceremony,celebratingtheSailors’achievements andsafereturn.

“I’m happy and grateful for the experience,” said Machinist’s Mate (Nuclear) 2nd Class Cameron McNovich. “I learned a lot aboutmyselfandthosearoundme Wegotto seesomeamazingsightsanddosomestuffI wouldhaveneverdoneifnotforthisdeployment,andmejoiningtheNavy.” Fast-attack submarines are multi-mis-

sion platforms enabling five of the six Navy maritime strategy core capabilities sea control,powerprojection,forwardpresence maritime security and deterrence They are designed to excel in anti-submarine warfare, anti-ship warfare, strike warfare, specialoperations,intelligence,surveillance

ByRobertFluegel

Naval Information Forces

Nineteen newly selected chief petty officers entered the Suffolk Federal Complex HallofHeroesintheirfreshlypressedkhakis Sept.16 singing“AnchorsAweigh, theunofficialmarchsongoftheUnitedStatesNavy

The eighteen Navy Chief Petty Officers andoneArmySergeantFirstClass(Honorary Chief) represented Naval Information Forces (NAVIFOR), Navy Cyber Defense Operations Command (NCDOC), Naval NetworkWarfareCommand(NNWC),and JointStaffNorfolk.

After a six-week initiation period, the chiefs waited with anticipation to receive their fouled anchor insignia, which would bewornontheiruniformcollars Theceremony also includes the “donning of the hat,” where the chiefs’ mentors or family

membersplacedtheircoversontheirheads

Master Chief Augustine Cooper, NAVIFOR Force Master Chief, was the guest speaker at the event and addressed the twentynewlypinnedChiefs

“Selection as a Chief represents the most significant change—and perhaps the most significant achievement—of a Sailor’s career,” said Cooper “Your journey to this moment connects you to generations of Chiefs who have served in every conflict andpeacetimemissionourNavyhasundertaken.”

Unlike other branches in the military, to become a chief petty officer and join the Navy’s senior enlisted leadership chief selects take a six-week training course that focusesonshiftingtheirprioritiestobecome a servant leader for their Sailors The training involved much self-reflection, learning, and leading The service members were

physically trained, took lessons in leadership, and volunteered in the local community

“This season has tested every aspect of your character knowledge and commitment to service You have proven that you possess not only the technical mastery but also the moral courage, judgment, and strength of character essential in the information domain, where ethical decisions carrystrategicconsequences,”saidCooper AccordingtotheNavalHistoryandHeritage Command website, the chief petty officer, as recognized today, was officially established on 1 April 1893 when the rank “pettyofficerfirstclass”wasshiftedto“chief petty officer.” For 132 years, Navy chiefs have bridged the gap between officers and enlisted personnel, acting as supervisors as wellasadvocatesfortheirSailors Whenyouwalkamongthedeckplatesin

theNavy,youwillseeNavychiefswiththeir goldfouledanchorsontheiruniforms.They will either be mentoring a junior Sailor or serving as an advisor to senior officers The Chief is the backbone of the Navy and they runthedeckplates

NAVIFOR’s mission is to generate directly and through our leadership of the IW Enterprise, agile and technically superior manned, trained, equipped, and certified combat-ready IW forces to ensure our Navy will decisively DETER, COMPETE, andWIN FormoreinformationonNAVIFOR,visit the command Facebook page at https:// www.facebook.com/NavalInformationForces/ or the public web page at https:// www.navifor.usff.navy.mil.

uarterdeck

From the ranks to the pulpit: A Navy chaplain’s uncommon

NSA Hampton Roads Northwest Annex Navy Exchange receives their 11th Bingham Award

ByNinoshkaBasantes

CHESAPEAKE, Va The Navy Exchange (NEX) at Naval Support Activity (NSA) Hampton Roads Northwest Annex has been awarded the prestigious 2024 Bingham Award on Sept 25, marking the 11thtimesince1990thestorehasearnedthis recognition.

TheBinghamAward,establishedin1979, is the highest honor presented by the Navy Exchange Service Command (NEXCOM). Named after Capt. W.H. Bingham, who helped lay the foundation for the modern Navy Exchange system, the award recognizes NEX locations worldwide for excellence in operations, customer service, and communitysupport. Under the leadership of Ms. Maxine Bell-Culley, the 6,700-square-foot North-

west Annex NEX and gas station stood out for its outstanding service to more than 1,100personnelandastudentpopulationof over 9,000 annually The store consistently maintained some of the highest customer satisfactionandassociatesatisfactionscores acrosstheentireNEXCOMenterprise

Despite the challenges of operating in a remote location, the NEX team never reduced hours and continued to deliver quality goods and services 365 days a year Their contributions extended far beyond retail support, playing a vital role in base activities such as Clean the Base Day, force protectiondrills,hurricaneexercises,tenant meetings, and holiday celebrations The NEX also supported charitable campaigns includingtheCombinedFederalCampaign andNavy-MarineCorpsReliefSociety

TurntoBinghamAward, Page 2

ByAndréB.Sobocinski,Historian

U.S. Navy Bureau Of Medicine and Surgery

After more than two decades of distinguished service across multiple branches, including the Air Force, Army National GuardandArmyReserves Lt Col.Valentino Bailey decided it was time for a change and made an extraordinary decision: he left the Army,relinquishedhisrank,andpursuedhis dreamofbecominganaerospaceoperational physiologistintheNavy

Born an Air Force “brat,” Bailey spent his childhood moving between seven different bases, eventually graduating high school in Okinawa,Japan.Despitehisparents’advice to join the Air Force as an officer—a path they encouraged after their own enlisted careers—he initially wanted nothing to do with the military His college years playing football at East Carolina University wereinitiallydevoidofmilitaryaspirations However, a longing for structure in the otherwise chaotic college environment led himtojoinAirForceReserveOfficerTrainingCorps(AFROTC)duringhissophomore year

“Growing up as a military brat you don’t realizehowmuchyouthriveinastructured environment, he explained, highlighting hisneedforaccountabilityasadrivingforce.

His AFROTC experience provided the framework he craved, offering clear milestonesandaroadmapforhisfuture.Buthis path to commissioning took an unexpected turnin1998 AnewAirEducationandTraining Command (AETC) mandate required allscholarshiprecipientstopursueScience, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) degrees. An economics major, he faced a choice: switch to Army ROTC, change his degree, or enlist He chose the

latter,enlistingintheAirForcetoutilizehis GIBillandfinishhisdegreelater

Upon arriving at his first duty station at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, then Bolling AirForceBase,aconversationwithhisChief Master Sergeant connected him with the Professional Officer Course Early Release Program (POC-ERP) coordinator through the base education office The program allowed enlisted personnel with no more thantwoyearsofcollegeremaining,toapply forearlyreleasefromtheAirForcetopursue a commission through AFROTC Thirteen months later, he graduated and commissionedasaU.S.AirForceofficer His time in the Air Force also saw him involvedintheLGM-30GMinutemanintercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) downsizing and space cryptographic support. However,post-9/11force-shapinginitiatives in the Air Force created immense uncertainty, with entire career fields being decimatedbyyeargroup Witnessingfriendslose theirpositions,hedecidedhedidn’twantto endurethatagain. In 2007 recognizing the Army’s need for officers and their active “Blue to Green” transition program, he made the uncommon move from the Air Force to the U.S. Army National Guard. This transition, he found,wassurprisinglyseamlessduetothe branches’ shared heritage and similar rank structuresandterminology.Hisquickadaptation often surprised his colleagues, who wouldoftenaskifhewasaWestPointgraduate “Youspeakthelanguage Itfeelslikeyou werehomegrown,”they’dsay,atestamentto hisdedication HistimeintheArmyNationalGuardwas

From CV 67 to CVN 79: James Prosise’s 39-year journey in Naval shipbuilding

ByTellyB.Myles

Shipbuilding Newport News

of

Supervisor

NEWPORT NEWS Va Mr James R. Prosise was recognized for his upcoming retirement, marking the close of an extraordinary 39-year career in civil service After serving in the military, Mr Prosise began his civilianjourneyin1985atNorfolkNavalShipyard, supporting the overhaul of USS John F. Kennedy (CV 67). Over the next 21 years, he advanced through roles as an Electrician andElectricalInspector contributingtoshipboard production, temporary service public service crane maintenance and quality assuranceacrossmultipleshopsandcodes.

His technical contributions spanned electrical installations, connector fabrication, testing, crane maintenance, and facility support for a wide range of naval platforms, including aircraft carriers, submarines, destroyers, cruisers, and tenders Prosise earned multiple awards and promotions rising to work leader and supervisory levels ineachareaheserved.

In 2006, he joined Supervisor of Shipbuilding, Conversion and Repair Newport News (SUPSHIPNN), where he spent the final years of his career He served as a Quality Assurance Specialist in Code 300 and later as a Production Controller in Code 151, supporting new construction carriers. His work included inspection and audit support for CVN and SSN projects and he played a pivotalroleinthesuccessfulconstructionand testingofadvancedelectricalsystemsaboard USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), including the Navy’sfirst13.8kVelectricplant.

Prosise continued his legacy of excellence by supporting propulsion plant electrical systems on the next-generation USS John F. Kennedy (CVN 79), bringing his career full circle His story reflects a lifetime of service craftsmanship, and continuity in support of theFleet.

A certificate presentation honored his decades of dedication, with colleagues and leadership celebrating his impact on both legacyandfutureplatforms

Bingham Award

from Page 1

The team’s professionalism and morale were evident not only in how they served their customers, but also in how they supported each other Recognizing associate milestones, hosting potluck gatherings, and fostering a family atmosphere created a positive work environment that translated directly into exemplary customer service Two associates were recognized as TidewaterDistrictAssociatesoftheQuarterin2024, with one advancing to Small Store Associate oftheYear

“Earning the Bingham Award is always

a great achievement, but winning it for the 11th time is a testament to the sustained excellence innovation, and dedication of the Northwest Annex NEX team,” said Capt.MattOlson,commandingofficer,NSA Hampton Roads “Maxine and her team are not only serving our Sailors, Marines, Coast Guardsmen, and their families—they are setting the standard for what it means to be the best.” The Bingham Award is presented annuallytorecognizethe“bestofthebest”among NEX locations worldwide NSA Hampton Roads Northwest Annex’s 2024 win underscores its vital role in supporting mission readiness and enhancing the quality of life forservicemembersandtheirfamilies

CHESAPEAKE,Virginia (Sept.25,2025) – Naval Support Activity(NSA) Hampton Roads NorthwestAnnexcelebrate receiving their11th NavyExchange BinghamAward.Award ceremonywas held at NSAHampton Roads Northwest AnnexChapel on Sept 25.(U.S.NAVYPHOTONINOSHKA BASANTES,NSAHAMPTONROADSPUBLICAFFAIRSOFFICER)

and giving back. This revelation led him to pursue a second master’s degree in exercise physiology and athletic training at the UniversityofMiami.

Now, as an aerospace operational physiologist in the Navy, he finds himself in a small, tight-knit, and highly skilled community

marked by multiple deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. This was a direct answer to his earlier worry in the Air Force, where his specialized skill as a cost estimator kept himstateside

“I joined to serve my country, and the Air Force was kind of inhibiting that ability,” he shared. So, his first question to the Army recruiter was, “How fast can I deploy?” The answer was swift and frequent, leading to a six to seven-year stretch of almost continuousdeployments He served primarily in combat support roles as a Contingency Contracting Team (CCT) lead, often forward deployed with special operations forces to procure essentialsupplies Hisexperiencesinjointenvironments alongside NATO allies helped further solidifiedhisgratitudefortheirsharedsacrifices However, his last deployment as part of Operation Resolute Support an advisory and assist mission training the Afghan Army markedaturningpoint.Thepervasive threatofinsiderattacksandroadsidebombs, coupled with a sense of a lost and unclear mission,ledtoaprofoundrealization.

“You didn’t know who the enemy was,” related Bailey. “They didn’t want us there; they didn’t want our help anymore, and I didn’t want to put my life in jeopardy anymore.” Returning stateside the question of “what’s next loomed as his 20-year mark approached. After a conversation with his motherwhoaskedhim,“Whatwouldyoudo for free?” sparked a new direction He realized his passion lay in human performance

COVID-19 brought new uncertainties, prompting him to consider if his newfound passion could align with continued military service. While the Army’s research physiologyprogramrequiredaPh.D atipfromU.S. NavalAcademygraduatefriendspurredhim tolookintotheNavy’sprogram.Thisleadled to an 18-month odyssey of navigating applications, securing waivers and making tough choices HewassimultaneouslybeingconsideredforO-6,theWarCollege,andcommand in the Army. The pressure mounted, and he made it clear to the Navy: “I need to know if you guys want me in this program before anyoneofthoseotheroptionspresentthemselves.”

Inaremarkablesequence,hewasaccepted into the Navy program, then accepted for Armycommand,andfinallyselectedforO-6. Despite the opportunity to advance further in the Army, he chose the Navy, knowing it meantasignificantreductioninrank

During his interview wearing his lieutenant colonel uniform, the panel strongly suggested he discuss rank with the Navy’s personnel command. His initial “hubris,” as hecallsit,ledhimtobelievehe’dretainmuch of his rank, earning him the temporary call sign “Icarus” after the mythological figure who flew too close to the sun with waxen wings before falling to earth. However, the Navyreducedhimtoalieutenant.

Adjustingtothenewrankwasachallenge.

“I had to come to grips with the fact that I was going to go back in time, he explained He even held a symbolic ceremony, burying his old rank in his backyard to psychologicallymoveon.

His current role, working with Marines on a Marinebase,feelslikehome,asheputsit.As thehumanperformanceleadfortheMarine Expeditionary Rifle Squad, Bailey looks at how Marines can be integrated in systems acrosstheMarineCorpsSystemsCommand (MARCORSYSCOM).Thismultidisciplinary function ensures we never lose sight of our mostimportantasset,theMarine

His extensive background in acquisition from both the Air Force and Army, particularly operational acquisition in austere environments,hasproveninvaluable Thisdiverse experienceallowshimtoviewtheMarineas a“weaponssystem, consideringfactorslike thermal burden and the downstream effects of new equipment on existing combat loads Heunderstandsthatgearmustbefunctional, notjust“cool.”

“I would love to have found this opportunity earlier in my career,” he stated when asked if he would follow the same path again. However, now after looking back on his 26-year military career, he wouldn’t change his past experiences acknowledgingthattheAirForceandArmyshapedwho he is today. His advice to aspiring NAOPs, or anyone considering a service change, is simple: “Don’t talk yourself out of it. Pursue it.Thelastthingyouwanttodoistolivewith regrets.”

***

For250years,NavyMedicine represented by more than 44,000 highly-trained military and civilian healthcare professionals has delivered quality healthcare and enduring expeditionary medical support to the warfighteron,below,andabovethesea,andashore.

From the ranks to the pulpit: A Navy chaplain’s uncommon path

ByPettyOfficer2ndClassLukeWilson

Commander, Naval Surface Force Atlantic

NORFOLK, Va Thirty years after first stepping aboard USS Tortuga (LSD 46) as a plankowner, Lt Cmdr Duane Hardy has returned to the same ship—this time wearingthecrossofaNavychaplain.

Serving alongside his identical twin brother, Chaplain James Hardy, Duane’s second tour aboard Tortuga is more than a homecoming;it’satestamenttosharedfaith, family,andalifelongcalltoserve.

The journey began in 1988 when their mother gave them three options after high school: attend college, go to trade school or join the military The next day, a Navy recruitervisitedtheirschool andtheymade theirdecision.TheHardybrothersenlisted attended Recruit Training Command together, and were both assigned to the pre-commissioning crew of USS Tortuga (LSD46).HardyservedasaPersonnelman, aratenowknownasPersonnelSpecialist.

“Back during that time, there was no Wi-Fi, no Facebook, Instagram or TikTok,” Hardy said. “We had to make do with what wehad,andthatwaseachother.”

Hardyleftactivedutyin1992andlaterthe Navy Reserve in 1996 He began ministeringatalocalchurchwhileworkingforacell phone company. His twin, James, commissioned as a Navy chaplain in 2012 When theCOVID-19pandemicdisruptedHardy’s civilian job, James called and encouraged him to consider returning to the Navy this timeasachaplain.

“I prayed and was like, ‘Lord, if it is your will for me to be a Navy chaplain, I will go anyandeverywhereyousendmeandallow the process to go smoothly,’ ” Hardy said “Everythingjustfellintoplace.”

In May 2021, Hardy commissioned into the Navy Reserve, officially taking the oath of office on June 2. After completing chaplaincyschool,hedeployedtoCampLemonnier Djibouti and later received orders to USS Tortuga, the same ship he served on decades earlier As a reservist activated in a surface warfare environment, life remains busy, and the well-being of the ship’s company is always a priority Hardy said he relies on prayer and stays mindful of the stress that comes with life at sea, especially as Sailors spend extended time away from home

“I try to encourage them with what they aredoingandwheretheyareisagreatplace tobe,”saidHardy.“Theworkandtheheavy liftintheirlaborisnotinvain.”

Great

NEWPORT,R.I.(May6,2022) Lt James Hardy, left and Lt Duane Hardy right pose fora photo before OfficerDevelopment School (ODS) class 22040’s graduation ceremonyat OfficerTraining Command Newport (OTCN), Rhode Island,May6.The twin brothers both formerlyenlisted Sailors and nowU.S.Navy Chaplain Corps officers reunited during the ceremony.ODS provides staffcorps officers and several restricted line designatorswith the training necessaryto prepare them to function in theirrole as commissioned Naval officers (U.S.NAVYPHOTOBYDARWINLAM)

To help keep morale high, he makes it a point to stay visible, regularly walking the ship,visitingoffices,andspeakingwithSailorsthroughouttheday.

He says the integration of reservists with active-dutypersonnelstrengthenstheNavy bybringingindiverseexperiencesandfresh perspectives Within the surface warfare community teamwork and endurance are essential,andreservistshelpsustainoperationalreadinessalongsidetheiractive-duty counterparts

Chaplainsplayavitalroleinthisdynamic environment, offering spiritual support, counseling, and a steady presence during demanding deployments On ships where Sailors face long hours and isolation from familiesandtheoutsideworld,thatsupport becomes even more critical to maintaining resilienceandmissionfocus

Hardy’s return to the fleet reflects both a personal and professional mission shaped by faith and family As a Navy chaplain, he supportsSailorsthroughtheemotionaland spiritual challenges of deployment, reinforcing resilience across the force Serving alongsidehistwinbrother Hardyembodies alegacyofservicerootedinsharedpurpose anddeepcommitment.

HeoftenencountersSailorswhomistake himforhisbrother,asignofjusthowclosely theirpathsmirroreachother In2023,both

Lakes Sailor shares journey through son’s leukemia, hope in recovery

ByPettyOfficer2ndClassMattHall

Naval Station Great Lakes

In July 2022, Chief Engineman Ryan Giesen, command career counselor at Surface Warfare Engineering School Command Great Lakes, faced every parent’s worst nightmare when his 20-month-old son, Liam “Maverick” Giesen, was diagnosed with leukemia a cancer of blood-forming tissues such as bone marrow That moment marked the beginning of Liam’s months-long battle toward recovery and his lifelong journey of remaining cancer-free.

Giesen and his wife first noticed signs in July 2022 when Liam began experiencing frequent nosebleeds As they waited for a pediatrician appointment they grew increasingly alarmed after seeing petechiae—small, pinpoint-sized brown spots beneath his skin often linked to leukemia Fearingsomethingwaswrong,andwiththe adviceofLiam’sdoctor,theyrushedhimto Northwestern Medicine McHenry HospitalinMcHenry,Illinois Bloodtestsquickly raisedfurtherconcerns,andthefamilywas transportedbyambulancetoAnn&Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago. There, on July 14, 2022, their worst fears were confirmed. Less than 24 hours later, Liam began his first chemotherapy treatment.

“Throughout it all he remained a rambunctious, energetic kid,” said Giesen. “I don’t think he even really understood what was happening That was the unique partabouthimdoingthisat20months He was growing up and just trying to understandwhatlifeis Itwasjustnormalforhim to go to Chicago every Friday for chemo. He handled it like a champ. You wouldn’t have known he had cancer except for his bald head.” After only a month of intensive chemotherapytreatmentandmultiplebonebiopsies Liamwasconfirmedtobeinremission on Aug. 12 2022. On Nov. 8, 2024—his fourth birthday—he rang the bell, marking the end of his active cancer treatment. Whilehisimmediatefightwithcancerwas over, Liam still faces a lifelong journey of recovery “It’s long term, it’s never really over,” said Giesen. “So we’re still going through it. Right now we’re at two-month appointment intervals Eventually we’ll transition to four months then six, then one year And five years from him ringing his bell, if he hasn’t relapsed, that’s when we transition to survivorship And relapse is always a possibility, so every appointment is a little scary But from day one, our focus was: do everything to win. Until a doctor says there’s nothing more to do, we move forward.” While Liam’s treatment demanded strength and resilience, it also opened unexpected doors to support and friendship During Liam’s treatment, Giesen’s wife discovered Project Fire Buddies—a nonprofit organization made up of fire-

NORFOLK,Va (July31,2025)— Lt Cmdr Duane Hardy a chaplain assigned to theWhidbey Island-class docklanding ship USSTortuga (LSD 46),poses fora photograph in front ofthe Tortuga,July31 This is Hardy’s second time being stationed on theTortuga,the first being over 30years ago as a personnelman.(U.S.

NAVYPHOTOBYMASSCOMMUNICATIONSPECIALIST2ND CLASSLUKEWILSON)

Hardybrotherswerepromotedtolieutenant commander From sharing a birthdate to sharing a calling, the Hardy twins continue to serve sidebyside,atestamenttofaith,family,and

unwavering commitment to their fellow Sailors Hardy’s return to the Navy is more thanacareerrevival;it’sthecontinuationof a legacy forged in service and strengthened byspiritualpurpose

fighters who volunteer their time to build meaningful relationships with children battling critical illnesses—through a Facebookpost,andrealizedthattheGreatLakes Fire Department was part of the program.

“Our mission is simple but powerful: to bringmoregooddaystofamiliesfacingthe unimaginable,” said Kurt DeGroot, chief executiveofficerandfounderofProjectFire Buddies “Firefighters visit these children at their homes, surprise them with special gifts and experiences, and walk alongside theirfamiliesthroughsomeofthetoughest journeys of their lives Since our founding, we’veexpandedtomorethan150chapters across12states,andeveryvisit,everysmile, and every connection reinforces why this work matters.”

ProjectFireBuddiesandtheGreatLakes Fire Department have been partnered for the last few years, and Liam was the first child from the program to visit the station. Sincethen,heandhissisterCharlottehave returnedfourtimesforeventsrangingfrom abirthdaypartyandChristmascelebration to pizza nights and even a bounce house at the firehouse Each visit has given the kids a chance to laugh play, and feel included, withthefirefightersmakingsureCharlotte was part of the fun as well.

“ThisisLiamandCharlotte’sfourthvisit to the station, and their visits are always a highlightforthecrew,”saidChrisDowdall, asupervisorycaptainwiththeGreatLakes Fire Department. “Thankfully, Liam has rangthebellandhiscancerisinremission However,thatdoesn’tstopusfromcontinuing our visits Whether it’s for a special occasion or simply to drop by Liam’s presence lifts spirits and reinforces the department’scommitmenttocompassion,family, and community service.”

For the Giesen family, the relationship has become more than just occasional visits—ithasgrownintoasourceofjoyand support.

“For us it’s been an awesome connection, said Giesen. “The firefighters have been incredible with the kids They love going over to the station, hanging out, and playinggames They’veplayedMarioParty, shothoops,andjustspenttimetogether It’s becomesomethingtheyreallylookforward to My son even wears his little firefighter hataroundthehousesometimes—hethinks it’s the coolest thing.”

As of September 2025 Liam is a healthy, happy 4-year-old. He spends his days running, playing, and doing all the things a childhisageshould,withhisfirefighterhat neverfarfromreach.Forhisparents,every milestone—everycleanbillofhealth,every checkup,everyordinaryday—feelsextraordinary after what they’ve endured While his fight with leukemia will always remain a part of his story today Liam’s laughter energy and joy are proof of just how far he has come

GREATLAKES,Illinois (Sept.25,2025) – Liam“Maverick”Giesen poses fora photo in front of his awareness ribbons,ca 2022.Liam is the son ofChiefEngineman Ryan Giesen,command careercounselorat SurfaceWarfare Engineering School Command Great Lakes,who faced everyparent’sworst nightmarewhen inJuly2022 at just 20-months old,Liamwas diagnosed with leukemia,a cancerofblood-forming tissues such as bone marrow.(U.S.NAVYPHOTOBY CHIEFENGINEMANRYANGIESEN/COURTESY)

GREATLAKES,Illinois (Sept. 25,2025) – Liam“Maverick” Giesen poses fora photo at the Naval Station Great Lakes fire station.Liam is the son ofChiefEngineman Ryan Giesen,command careercounselorat Surface Warfare Engineering School Command Great Lakes, faced everyparent’sworst nightmarewhen inJuly 2022 at just 20-months old,Liamwas diagnosed with leukemia,a cancerof blood-forming tissues such as bone marrow (U.S.NAVY PHOTOBYCHRISDOWDALL/ COURTESY)

SUPSHIP Board of Directors meeting strengthens strategic alignment across enterprise

ByTellyB.Myles

Supervisor of Shipbuilding Newport News

Newport News Va (Sept. 18 2025)

Senior leaders from across the Supervisor ofShipbuilding(SUPSHIP)Conversionand Repair enterprise convened at the Virginia AdvancedShipbuildingCarrierIntegration Center(VASIC)inNewportNews,Virginia, fortheSUPSHIPBoardofDirectors(BOD) meeting The BOD is comprised of Supervisors and Executive Directors from each SUPSHIP along with Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) 04Z leadership, and servesasastrategicforumtoaddresstopics of common interest and drive alignment across shipbuilding and modernization efforts The meeting brought together subject matter experts and representatives from NAVSEA and SUPSHIP commands to discuss enterprise-wide priorities share bestpractices,andsupportlong-rangeplanninginitiatives

On the final day, attendees also participated in the Distributed Shipbuilding Summit, which explored innovative approaches to ship construction beyond the traditional confines of the Prime Shipbuilder’sfacilities Thesummitemphasized leveragingexternalcapacityandexpertiseto enhanceoverallshipbuildingspeed quality, and cost efficiency reinforcing the enterprise’s commitment to strategic agility and modernization.

Maritime industrial base program highlights workforce mission at Virginia Tech

BLACKSBURG,Va TheUSNavy’stop maritimeindustrialbaseofficialemphasized partnership with Virginia Tech faculty and defense industry leaders this week as part ofabroaderefforttogrowtheskilledworkforcerequiredtosustainthefleet.

“The Navy cannot meet the demands of tomorrow’s fleet alone,” said Matthew Sermon,DirectReportingProgramManager for the Maritime Industrial Base (MIB) Program. “We need partners at every level of education, including K—12 community colleges and universities together with industryandcommunities Buildingthenext generation of skilled manufacturing talent is not optional It is essential to America’s security.” Sermon’s keynote opened the Future Manufacturing Workforce Workshop, part ofathree-dayeventatVirginiaTechfocused onadvancedmanufacturing Thegathering drew leaders in engineering, government academia,anddefensetoaddressoneofthe nation’s most pressing challenges: preparing a workforce capable of sustaining shipbuildinganddefenseproductionfordecades tocome

The Navy’s Mission

TheMIBProgramwascreatedtoexpand and modernize the nation’s shipbuilding capacity Itsworkspansworkforcedevelopment,suppliergrowth,andadvancedmanufacturing, three mission areas that together ensuretheNavycanbuildandmaintainthe fleetthenationneeds

Sermon told the audience that this is not a distant challenge By 2028, the maritime industrial base must deliver one Columbia-class ballistic missile submarine and two Virginia-class attack submarines every year, while also sustaining the current fleet

andbuildingmorethantenclassesofsurface ships

“That demand translates directly into people,” Sermon said. “We need 250,000 skilled workers across the maritime industrial base over the next decade Welders machinists engineers robotics specialists the list goes on Every one of those roles contributestokeepingAmericasecure.

Why Advanced Manufacturing Matters

A consistent theme in Sermon’s remarks was the role of advanced manufacturing in meeting these needs He described how technologies such as additive manufacturing, robotics, and artificial intelligence are not only speeding up production but also transformingwhatispossible

“The technologies we’re implementing today will define the next 50 years of shipbuilding,” he said. “But technology alone cannotsolveourchallenge Withoutpeople whoknowhowtouseit improveit andpass thatknowledgeon,wecannotsucceed.

Virginia Tech provided a fitting backdrop for that message The university is leading research across additive manufacturing, advanced materials, and intelligent manufacturing Through its “ManufacturingSpine”concept,VirginiaTechintegrates hands-on experience into every engineeringdiscipline ensuringallgraduatesunderstandtheprocessofmaking.

“What excites me about Virginia Tech is thatyou’reshowingstudentsmanufacturing isnotasidesubject,”Sermonsaid “Whether they go into aerospace, naval architecture, or material science, they learn how ideas become reality That integrated approach isexactlywhatthemaritimeindustrialbase needs.”

A Workshop Designed for Action

Unlikeatraditionalconference theFuture Manufacturing Workforce Workshop was built around participation. Industry and federal leaders joined faculty to define today’s workforce needs, identify gaps, and forecastthecompetenciesfutureengineers willrequire.

The outcome will be a white paper with recommendationstoshapecurricula,guide trainingprograms,andkeepacademicinstitutionsalignedwithindustryneeds.

“These events bring together industry, federal, and academic thought leaders to collaboratively shape the future of manufacturing from emerging technologies to the skilled workforce needed to support them,” said Christopher Williams, the L.S Randolph Professor of Mechanical Engineering and the workshop’s lead “It’s an opportunity to align Virginia Tech’s strengths with real-world challenges and futureneeds.”

Attendees also toured the university’s research facilities, including Williams’ DREAMS Lab, which pioneers additive manufacturingdesignandimplementation, and the Future Manufacturing Lab, which explores robotics and artificial intelligence applications

Lessons from the Field

Sermon pointed to the Navy’s own integration of training and production as a model. In Danville, Virginia, the Accelerated Training in Defense Manufacturing (ATDM) program sits next door to the Navy’s Additive Manufacturing Center of Excellence Studentstherelearnonthesame equipment producing real components for submarinesandsurfaceships

“Thatproximitymeansspeedtoskilland

speed to fleet,” Sermon said. “We need to replicate that model. Students training on the tools that industry and the Navy actuallyusecreatesconfidence,competence,and connectiontothemission.”

He emphasized that the Navy is not askinguniversitiestobecometradeschools Instead,thegoalistoprepareengineerswho can think critically, innovate across disciplines, and understand how their ideas are implementedinreal-worldproductionenvironments

“We’renotjustfillingjobs,”hesaid.“We’re inspiringcareersthatwillcarrythismission forwardfordecades.Thatishowwesustain thiseffort.

Building a Culture of Partnership

For Sermon, the workshop was about more than curriculum or research. It was aboutbuildingacultureofcollaboration.

“Fortoolongtherehasbeenagapbetween what universities teach and what industry requires,” he said. “Events like this help us close that gap When we work together, we createsolutionsfasterandpreparestudents better That partnership is how we ensure America’smaritimestrength.”

The Future Manufacturing Workforce Workshop concluded with a call to action: continue the dialogue implement recommendations and expand collaboration. For participants, the event underscored that the future of manufacturing, and America’s defense, will be shaped as much in classrooms and laboratories as on the shipyard floor As Sermon reminded the audience, the stakesarehigh.

“Wearenotjustbuildingsubmarinesand ships,”hesaid.“Wearebuildingthefutureof Americanmanufacturing andeveryperson inthisroomhasaroletoplay.

CourtesyStory

Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command Mid-Atlantic

NORFOLK, Va Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command Mid-Atlantic (NAVFAC MIDLANT) awarded P&S ConstructionInc.,Westford,Massachusetts, a $8,644,800 firm-fixed-price contract for concrete repairs to two dry docks at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard (PNSY) in Kittery, Maine

This project is part of the Navy’s Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program (SIOP), a comprehensive, long-term recapitalizationeffortthatisdeliveringintegrated investmentsininfrastructureandindustrial plant equipment at the Navy’s four public shipyards.SIOPprojectsareessentialtothe on-timecompletionofsubmarineavailabilitiesatPNSY,andcriticaltomaintainingthe Navy’smaritimesuperiority

WorkwillbeperformedinKittery,Maine andisanticipatedtobecompletedbyOctober2026

Fiscal year (FY) 2025 SIOP funds in the amount of $8,644,800 are obligated on this award and will expire at the end of the currentFY

This contract was awarded through a competitive procurement process conducted via SAM.gov, with five offers received.

NAVFAC MIDLANT is the contracting activity(N40085-25-C-0037). FormoreinformationabouttheShipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program, visit https://www.navfac.navy.mil/PEO-Industrial-Infrastructure/PMO-555-SIOP/. The Navy is investing heavily in shipyard infrastructure. SIOP will construct and recapitalizedrydocks recapitalizeandreconfigure infrastructure, and modernize industrial plantequipment.

NAVFAC MIDLANT delivers comprehensivefacilitiesengineering,publicworks, and environmental services across a broad area of responsibility from South CarolinatoMaine,extendingwesttoIllinoisand southtoIndiana.Asakeycomponentofthe

Commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic team, NAVFAC MIDLANT provides strategicleadershipthroughtheRegionalEngineer, ensuring the region’s infrastructure and facilities are managed with efficiency, effectiveness,andlong-termsustainability

For additional information about NAVFACMIDLANTonsocialmedia,follow ouractivitiesonFacebookatwww.facebook. com/navfacmidatlanticandonInstagram@ navfacmidatlantic.

Navy advances readiness with $90 million utilities support contract focused on privatization, resilience

ByMichaelMorris

Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command (NAVFAC) Atlantic awarded CDM Federal Programs Corporation an indefinite-delivery indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contract (N62470-25-D-0007) to provide professional services in support of the Navy’s Public Works Directorate, with specific emphasis on the Utilities Privatization (UP) program across U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps installations worldwide

The contract has a maximum value of $90 million, includes a 12-month base period with four one-year options, and will not exceed60months withcompletionnolater thanSept.18 2030 Under the contract, CDM Federal Programs Corporation will deliver specialized expertise in electrical, mechanical and civil utility systems to support NAVFAC’s global utilities infrastructure programs. Services include utility management;

operations and maintenance; asset inventory and management; electric and steam production and distribution; water and wastewater treatment; wastewater and stormwater collection; cybersecurity and controlsystems;advancedmetering;energy management and security; and regulatory compliance Thecontractoralsowillsupport development of UP contract documents technical libraries and cost models essential for competitively awarding long-term privatizationcontracts The UP program, authorized under Section 2688 of Title 10, U.S. Code, enables the Department of the Navy to privatize installation utility systems through 50-year contracts with commercial entities By transferring ownership and responsibility for recapitalization operation and maintenance, the Navy can address degraded utility services and execute financed capital improvementplansthatstrengthenmission assurance “This award is a critical enabler of Navy priorities lethality, readiness and warf-

ighting by ensuring our utility systems are safe, reliable and resilient, said Grant Morris, Public Works Utilities director for NAVFAC Atlantic. “The UP program allows us to recapitalize aging infrastructure, improve regulatory compliance and secureenergysystemsthatdirectlysupport ourwarfightersandtenantcommands.” No funds are obligated at the time of award. The contract includes a $10,000 minimum guarantee that will be obligated onthefirsttaskorderusingfiscalyear2025 OperationsandMaintenance,Navyfunds Thecontractwascompetitivelyprocured via the System for Award Management ContractOpportunitieswebsiteusingabestvaluesourceselection.Threeproposalswere received. Award was based on nonprice factors including corporate experience; technicalandmanagementapproach;safety; small-businessutilizationandparticipation; andpastperformance andpricetodetermineoverallbestvaluetothegovernment. WorkwillbeperformedatDepartmentof theNavyinstallationswithinthecontinental

UnitedStates,theCaribbean,Europe,Africa and Southwest Asia. NAVFAC Atlantic, Norfolk,Virginia,isthecontractingactivity. NAVFAC Atlantic plans, builds, sustains and modernizes shore and expeditionary infrastructurethatenablesNavyandMarine CorpsreadinessacrosstheAtlantictheater. NAVFAC Atlantic delivers engineering and acquisition excellence in construction and public works; environmental stewardship and remediation; real estate and property management; facility-related control systems cybersecurity; weight-handling oversight;oceanfacilities;andexpeditionary engineeringandlogisticstoprovideresilient, affordable solutions that strengthen deterrenceandwarfightingadvantage HeadquarteredinNorfolk,Virginia,NAVFACAtlantic supportsNavyandMarineCorpsoperations worldwidethroughdisciplinedcontracting, innovativeengineeringandtrustedpartnerships

Navy funds global marine monitoring to keep training mission-ready and compliant

ByMichaelMorris

mumvalueof$75milliontoprovidemarine resourcesmonitoringandprogrammanagementservicesacrossNAVFAC’sAtlanticand Pacificareasofresponsibilityworldwide The award includes a 12-month base periodandfourone-yearoptionsforapotentialperformanceperiodofupto60months, extending no later than September 2030 Fiscal year 2025 U.S. Fleet Forces funds of $5,000areobligatedtosatisfythecontract’s minimum guarantee and will expire at the endofthecurrentfiscalyear WorkunderthecontractwillsupportU.S. Navy environmental compliance and regu-

latory reporting tied to at-sea training and testing Thescopeincludesmonitoringand analysisrequiredunderfederalstatutesand regulationssuchastheEndangeredSpecies ActandtheMarineMammalProtectionAct, aswellasapplicableDepartmentofDefense and Navy environmental readiness instructions ServicesperformedoutsidetheUnited Statesoritsterritorialwaterswillalignwith internationalandhostnationlawsandregulations

“This contract supports military readiness through at-sea training and testing compliance with federal laws and regulations that protect marine species,” said Joel T. Bell, senior marine resources specialist with NAVFAC Atlantic, Environmental Conservation Marine Resources. “AFTT andHCTTarethemajortrainingandtesting complianceinitiatives butthereareseveral others They all have permits and authorizations issued by National Marine Fisheries Service under the Marine Mammal Protection Act and Endangered Species

Act that require monitoring This contract is our primary vehicle to fund the majority of the monitoring projects focused on better understanding how training and testingactivitiesmightbeimpactingmarine mammals,seaturtlesandprotectedspecies offish.Inthisparticularcase,thecontractor isalsoourpartnerinhelpingtomanageand coordinatetheprogram.”

The contract was competed on an unrestricted basis via the Procurement IntegratedEnterpriseEnvironmentSolicitation ModuleandSAM.gov,usingFederalAcquisitionRegulationPart15best-valuetradeoff source-selection procedures One proposal was received and evaluated The NAVFAC Atlantic contracting office in Norfolk, Virginia,isthecontractingactivity NAVFAC Atlantic plans builds sustains and modernizes shore and expeditionary infrastructurethatenablesNavyandMarine CorpsreadinessacrosstheAtlantictheater NAVFAC Atlantic delivers engineering and acquisition excellence in construction

and public works; environmental stewardship and remediation; real estate and property management; facility-related control systems cybersecurity; weight-handling oversight;oceanfacilities;andexpeditionary engineeringandlogisticstoprovideresilient, affordable solutions that strengthen deterrenceandwarfightingadvantage HeadquarteredinNorfolk,Virginia,NAVFACAtlantic supportsNavyandMarineCorpsoperations worldwidethroughdisciplinedcontracting, innovativeengineeringandtrustedpartnerships

On iberty

Hope House Foundation hosts the 2025 Stockley Gardens Fall Arts Festival on October 18-19

PressRelease

NORFOLK, Va Hope House Foundation hosts the Stockley Gardens Fall Arts Festival, a free two-day community event featuring 115+ artists, musicians and food vendors The Stockley Gardens Fall Arts Festival, presented byTowneBank takesplaceinStockleyGardens Park at the corner of Stockley Gardens and OlneyRoadinNorfolkonOctober18and19 Festivalhoursare10a.m.to5p.m.onSaturday andnoonto5pmonSunday.StockleyGardens Arts Festival has been named as one of the top twooutdoorartfestivalsinEasternVirginiaby VirginiaLivingMagazinereadersforsixyears

Artists present works in various media including painting glass, sculpture, photography,andjewelry EveryoneiswelcometothefreeArtistAward PartyfeaturingSmartmouthBrewingCompany onSaturday,October18thfrom5to7p.m.This funeventrecognizesartists’awardsandfeatures thebandExplodingSunwithacashbar

Therearealsoactivitiesforchildrenthroughout the weekend with clowns, musicians, art activities a Norfolk Botanical Gardens educational table and an activity with the Chrysler MuseumofArt.

Stockley Gardens Spring Arts Festival presented by TowneBank is also sponsored by CapitalGroup,MillerOil,SouthernAutoGroup, Mancon, The City of Norfolk, & the Ghent Business Association. Media Sponsors include VEER Magazine, Coastal Virginia Magazine, TheTide92.3FMandWHRO. Proceeds from the Stockley Gardens Arts FestivalssupporttheprogramsofHopeHouse Foundation, the only organization in Virginia that provides support for people with intellectualanddevelopmentaldisabilitiesexclusively in their own homes The spring and fall festivals,thelargestfundraiserfortheorganization, generate$80,000thatisusedtoprovidenecessitiesforthepeoplewhoreceiveservicessuchas assistance with food, medical expenses dental care, clothing and housing For more information, visit StockleyGardens.com or call (757) 625-6161.

PressRelease

NASA is inviting the public to join the agency’s Artemis II test flight as four astronautsventurearoundtheMoonandbackto testsystemsandhardwareneededfordeep space exploration. As part of the agency’s “Send Your Name with Artemis II” effort, anyone can claim their spot by signing up beforeJan.21.

Participantswilllaunchtheirnameaboard theOrionspacecraftandSLS(SpaceLaunch System) rocket alongside NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and CSA (Canadian Space Agency) astronautJeremyHansen.

“ArtemisIIisakeytestflightinoureffort toreturnhumanstotheMoon’ssurfaceand build toward future missions to Mars, and it’s also an opportunity to inspire people acrosstheglobeandtogivethemanopportunity to follow along as we lead the way in humanexplorationdeeperintospace,”said Lori Glaze, acting associate administrator, ExplorationSystemsDevelopmentMission DirectorateatNASAHeadquartersinWashington. ThecollectednameswillbeputonanSD card loaded aboard Orion before launch. In return, participants can download a boarding pass with their name on it as a collectable To add your name and receive an English-languageboardingpass,visit: https://go.nasa.gov/artemisnames To add your name and receive a Spanish-languageboardingpass,visit: https://go.nasa.gov/TuNombreArtemis As part of a Golden Age of innovation and exploration, the approximately 10-day ArtemisIItestflight,launchingnolaterthan

Community

SUBMIT YOUR EVENTS, NEWSAND PHOTOS

The Flagship welcomes submissions from ourreaders online. Pleasesubmiteventshere: www militarynews.com/users/admin/calendar/event/ Pleasesubmitnewsandphotoshere: www militarynews.com/norfolk-navy-flagship/submit_news/

Owl Creek Landing unveils spooktacular

Halloween lineup in Virginia Beach’sCoastal Forest

PressRelease

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va.— OwlCreek

Landing,the innovativeoutdoor haven featuring the Nautilus Lookout Towerand the nation’slongeststainless-steel spiral slide,istransforming its 38 acres of pristine coastalforestintoaHalloweenwonderland this October!Fromtrick-or-treating high in the treetops to lantern-lit ghoststory hikesunderthestars,visitorsofallagesand abilities areinvited to embrace thespooky season with alineup of free, included activities designed for thrills,chills andfamily bonding.Alleventsarecomplimentarywith standardadmissionandcelebratetheattraction’scommitmenttoaccessible,educational adventuresinnature.

Kicking off thefestivities is the Trickor TreatintheTrees,heldSaturdays and Sundays throughout October from 12 p.m. to2p.m.Youngexplorers(andtheyoungat heart) can don their favorite costumesand hunt for candy at hidden stations along the Forest Trail, in the interactiveTreehouse Villageand even up in the canopyvia the Treetop Trail. It’s all treats, no tricks —just pureHalloweenmagicamidnativetreesand wildlife Forevening eerie encounters,join the Moonlight GhostStory Hike on FridaysandSaturdaysinOctoberfrom8p.m to 9p.m. Guided lantern-litwalks through the shadowy woods feature spine-tingling

Trick-or-treatinginthe treetops,ghost story hikes, pumpkin contests and moreoffer family-friendly frightsand fun forall ages!

talesof locallore, completewithspooky surprisesalong the path. Recommended for ages 12 and up,participantsare encouragedtobring their ownflashlight, headlamp or lantern for addedadventure.This isalimitedspaceevent,soadvancebookings arerequired. Little ones cancozyupfor Spooky

Storytime on Tuesdaysand Thursdays in October at Noon in the Children’sTreehouse Village. This gentlegathering shares not-so-scary Halloween stories perfect for ages3-6,fosteringimaginationinawhimsical,elevatedsetting(allagesinvited).Spooky Storytimeisfreewithpaidadmission. Rounding outthe monthisthe Carved PumpkinContest,opendailythroughout October.Guestscan drop offtheir pre-carved pumpkinsfor afestivedisplay, withprizesawardedincategorieslikescariest,funniestand mostcreative. Prizeswill be awarded post-Halloween,turning the Forest Trail intoaglowinggallery of ghoulishartistry OwlCreek Landing is fully ADA-accessible,welcoming strollers, wheelchairs and visitors from toddlers to seniors.Standard admissiongrantsunlimited accessto all towerfeatures,trails,treehouses,slide andHalloween events: $13for ages3-9,$18 forages 10-13, $28for ages 14+, and free for children 2and younger. Discounts of 15% applyfor militarypersonnel, firstresponders, teachers, college students and seniors 55+ with valid ID.Combo tickets with the neighboringTheAdventureParkatVirginia Aquariumoffer20%savings.Theattraction operates daily,rain or shine, with seasonal hours;walk-insare welcome,but timed reservations arerecommended at www OwlCreekLanding.com or 757⁄330-0473. Annual passesare availablestarting at $95 for unlimitedvisits in a365-day period. Groupratesandprivateeventsareavailable onrequestbycalling475-988-0988.

“We’reexcited to sprinkle some Halloween enchantment over Owl Creek Landing’strailsandtreetopscreatingmemorable moments that blend thethrill of theseason withourlovefortheoutdoors,”saidDarlene Zimble,General Manager. “Whether it’s a candyquest forthe kidsorghostly tales forthe brave, these events invite everyone to discover theplayful side of spooky in VirginiaBeach’sbeautifulcoastalforest.” AboutOwl CreekLanding: This new, outdoorhaveninVirginiaBeach,Va introduces visitors to nativetrees and wildlife in auniqueandaccessiblesettinganchoredby theNautilusLookoutTower.Modeledafter similardesigns in Europe,the ADA-compliant toweristhe first of its kind in the USA. The 80-foot diameter steel structure allows visitors to easily ascendtothe topvia aseven-footwide, circular path or apairofinteriorstaircasesthat culminate at an open-air observation deck at 65 feet high.Immersedinacoastalforest,bird’s-eye views from thetower showcase thearea’s naturalbeauty.Anoptionaldescentvia the nation’slongeststainless-steel slide twists through the center of thestructure, and a neighborhood of treehouses areconnected to thetower by an elevated walkway for furtherexploration.

Virginia Championship Wrestling returns to Norfolk for thefirsttimesince MayonSaturday, Oct. 4

BySamSaunders

Virginia Championship Wrestling returns to Norfolk,VAforthefirsttimesinceMayonSaturday, Oct.4attheSalvationArmyKrocCenterHampton

Roads.Aportion of the proceedswillgotobenefit the Hampton Roads Salvation Army at theKroc Center Doorsopenat6p.m.withbelltimeat7:30p.m. Front rowseats aresold out, but general admissionticketsareavailableonlineatSimpleTix.com

„ RexLawlessmakeshisfirstVirginiaHeavyweight Championship defenseagainst The Boar in a Lumberjackmatch.

„ MyronMalone goesone-on-one with Ryan Zukko.

„ Sexy&BlessedchallengeNice&Smoothforthe VCWTagTeamChampionship

„ AlexDivinereturnstoVCWagainst2025Liberty Lotterywinner“GreekGod”Papadon.

„ “The Director”JerryStephanitsis presents George Pantas with the Awardfor Outstanding AchievementinaDramaticMoment.

„ “RanchHard”ShawnCarlsonmakeshisVCW debutagainstNikita.

„ LDJ battles formerVirginia Heavyweight ChampionJosephKeys

„ VCWLibertyChampionCommanderKingand BigACteamupagainstTheGoldenPinkySociety The Kroc Center is located at 1401 Ballentine Blvd.,Norfolk,VA23504.

FormerVCWCommissionerGeorge Pantas on theleft,to receivethe “Jerry”awardforOutstanding Achievement in aDramatic Moment from“TheDirector” JerryStephanitsis on the right (IMAGESCOURTESYOFVIRGINIA CHAMPIONSHIPWRESTLING)

Iasked what kind of family Amina wanted. She said, ‘A family like yours.’ That’s when Iknew Ihad to adopt her. Denise, adopted 17-year-old Amina

Lynnhaven’s Liquid Gold: Its time to

oyster season’s start in Virginia Beach

PressRelease

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va As the first hints of fall arrive along the East Coast, Virginia Beach is buzzing with the kickoff of oyster season a time when the region’s iconic Lynnhavenoysterstastesweetest.Dubbed“liquidgold”for their briny, complex flavors that evoke the salty essence of theAtlantic,thesebivalveshaveastoriedpast:Oncesavored by English aristocracy and praised by Captain John Smith in1607fortheirabundanceandsize,Lynnhavenoystersare making a triumphant comeback thanks to dedicated local farmers

What makes this season’s start so special? Cooler waters plump up the oysters, enhancing their divine taste a perfect blend of salinity and subtle sweetness. Visitors can dive into the experience at standout spots like Terrapin Restaurant, where they’re served raw with inventive pairingslikePungoStrawberryMignonette;Commune,for farm-to-table freshness; Chick’s Oyster Bar, offering dockside fresh oysters with stunning views of the Lynnhaven Inlet; or Zoe’s Steak & Seafood, expertly pairing them with premiumwines Foranup-closeadventure,bookatourwith Pleasure House Oyster Farm where guests learn how the merrioraffectsflavorandwadeintotheLynnhavenRiverto harvest and taste oysters straight from the water, all while learning about their vital role in cleaning local waterways andsustainingtheecosystem.

This isn’t just about indulgence it’s a celebration of Virginia Beach’s coastal heritage, from sustainable farming practices to vibrant events like the 44th annual Pig & OysterFestivalinOctober Forfoodiesseekingtheultimate oyster trail or travelers craving authentic seaside experiences,now’stheprimetimetospotlightwhyVirginiaBeach isamust-visitforoysterlovers

For more information: „ TerrapinRestaurant:www.visitvirginiabeach.com/ listing/terrapin-restaurant/521/

„ Commune:www.visitvirginiabeach.com/listing/ commune/965/ „ Chick’sOysterBar:www.visitvirginiabeach.com/ listing/chicks-oyster-bar/606/ „ Zoe’sSteak&Seafood:www.visitvirginiabeach.com/

listing/zo%C3%ABs-steak-%26-seafood/83/ „ PleasureHouseOysterFarm:www.visitvirginiabeach. com/listing/pleasure-house-oyster-farm-tour/879/ „ Pig&OysterFestival:www.vbsurfrescuemuseum.org/ pig-and-oyster-fest