July 2013 Newletter
Content
USS MILIUS COMMAND NEWSLET TER
VOLUME 4 ISSUE 7
JULY 2013
F ROM THE CO’ S D ESK
Team MILIUS, I hope everyone had a great (and long) Independence Day weekend. I was glad we were able to provide you some quality time with your Sailor. They, and you, definitely deserve it. I try to tell you every chance I get, but it can’t be over-emphasized: your support is what drives this crew and this great ship of ours. Every good command has great families and you are precisely that. In return, it’s my job to make sure you are informed, that you’re familiar with the resources available to you and that we are doing everything possible to assist you when necessary. I say that now because we’ve created an opportunity next month to get everyone together and discuss the year ahead. On August 7th, we’ll be holding a Town Hall meeting at the Murphy Canyon Chapel from 6pm to 8pm. We’re going to discuss next year’s deployment, introduce our new command ombudsman and start making plans for the reinvigoration of the Milius Family Readiness Group. We’re getting as far out in front of deployment as we can. The sooner you start preparing, the easier it will be when departure time rolls around. I do not want Milius to leave the pier next summer with any Sailor wondering or worrying about their family and the support they’ll receive while he or she is underway. That’s what this Town Hall is going to be geared toward. We’ll have representatives from the Fleet and Family Service Center there to assist us and it’s going to be a great event.Your Sailor will have more information regarding child care, etc. Thank you again for all you do and the sacrifices you make for us and this country. CDR Steve Shedd Commanding Officer USS MILIUS DDG-69
I NSIDE
THIS ISSUE :
CMC’s Call Ccc news CALENDAR OF EVENTS OMBUDSMEN MEMO SCPO FROCKING Milius frontline news CREW PHOTOS Bravo zulu! RESOURCES
2 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
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USS MILIUS COMMAND NEWSLETTER
CMC’s Call
MILIUS families, I wanted to take a minute to point out something that’s happening at the deckplate level onboard MILIUS. Our Sailors are making a commitment to our nation’s veterans. This Saturday several members of Captain Paul Milius’ squadron, VO-67, will visit our ship for a tour and then many of us will be attending their reunion dinner that evening. In preparation for that, more than 20 MILIUS Sailors videotaped messages we’ll play at the event. These greetings will be our Sailors talking about the privilege associated with wearing the uniform, and the honor they feel assigned to a ship named after an American hero. In May, several MILIUS Sailors were on hand at San Diego’s International Airport to welcome home an Honor Flight filled with WWII veterans. Finally, last month, more than a dozen Sailors attended a local Pearl Harbor Survivors picnic at Admiral Baker Park. All of these events have been voluntary and our Sailors value the opportunity to interact with the men and women who have set the standard for us. We’re a better crew, and we’re better Americans, through a greater understanding of the sacrifices made by our Shipmates who’ve gone before us. Sincerely, CMDCM(SW/AW) Bill Houlihan
FROM THE COMMAND CAREER COUNSELOR
Greetings, MILUS Crew, Family & Friends, The month of June we had the announcement of Career Navigation Program via NAV/ADMIN 149/13 and 150/13. Career Navigation Program replaces Perform-to-Serve and the benefits are Sailors and their families will know sooner if they are eligible to reenlist. It will alleviate the stress involved with CMS-ID negotiation process and immediate confirmations they are approved to reenlist, convert, or transition to the reserves. This is great news for our Sailors that are were frustrated with the previous system. It is revised to give more options to our Sailors so they can have time to plan their careers. I wish all of you a Happy Fourth of July and continue to have a great summer!
Sincerely, NC1 (SW/AW) D. Gutierrez
VOLUME 4 ISSUE 7
P P AGE AGE 3 3
JULY JULY
Sun
7 14 21 28
Mon
1 8 15 22 29
Tue
2 9 16 23 30
Wed
3 10 17 24 31
Thu
4 11 18 25
Fri
5 12 19 26
Sat
6 13 20 27
NOTEWORTHY EVENTS
Thursday, July 4 — Independence Day Saturday, July 6 — John Paul Jones’ Birthday Tuesday, July 9 — Ramadan Begins at Sundown Saturday, July 13 — Navy Observation Squadron Sixty-Seven (VO-67) Reunion Visit Saturday, July 20 — 1969: Neil Armstrong is the first man to walk on the moon. July 22 to 26 — Summer Sizzler Softball Tournament
Games played on Naval Base San Diego Softball Fields and run 55 minutes each. Open to all! Prizes awarded! Games played at 5:15, 6:15 and 7:15 pm. 16team single elimination format. Open only to active duty. Call 619-556-7444 for more information. Friday, July 26 • 6:30-9 pm • FREE • 619-553-4259 NBPL Main Base Fitness Center • Bldg. 1, Outdoor Exercise Area @ Smuggler’s Cove Parents and children of all ages are welcome to join MWR Fitness for a night of outdoor family friendly fitness activities followed by a movie. Presented by MWR and USAA.
Friday, July 26 — Family Fitness & Movie Night
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USS MILIUS COMMAND NEWSLETTER
OMBUDSMAN MEMO
Hello MILIUS Families! As some may know already, Jeri Nix and her family have transferred off MILIUS and my family and I will be transferring at the end of the month; unfortunately, this will be my last newsletter to you! I’ve enjoyed my time serving the amazing families we have on MILIUS and hopefully I’ll run into you again! We’re still looking for more ombudsman applicants to step in and if you’re interested, please contact our CMC at [email protected]. If you would like a detailed description of “what is an ombudsman? What are the roles/duties?” please email me at [email protected] and I can send you the general description. This is a great opportunity to play a vital role within the MILIUS family! With that being said, it’s certainly been hot around town and it can get tough sometimes trying to beat the heat so thought it would be a good idea to share some summer safety tips! "Buddy up!" That's what swimming instructors say. Always swim with a partner, every time — whether you're swimming in a backyard pool or in a lake. Even experienced swimmers can become tired or get muscle cramps, which might make it difficult to get out of the water. When people swim together, they can help each other or go for help in case of an emergency. Know your limits. Swimming can be a lot of fun — and you might want to stay in the water as long as possible. If you're not a good swimmer or you're just learning to swim, don't go in water that's so deep you can't touch the bottom and don't try to keep up with skilled swimmers.If you are a good swimmer and have had lessons, keep an eye on friends who aren't as comfortable or as skilled as you are. If it seems like they (or you) are getting tired or a little uneasy, suggest that you take a break from swimming for a while. Swim in safe areas only. It's a good idea to swim only in places that are supervised by a lifeguard. No one can anticipate changing ocean currents, rip currents, sudden storms, or other hidden dangers. In the event that something does go wrong, lifeguards are trained in rescue techniques. Swimming in an open body of water (like a river, lake, or ocean) is different from swimming in a pool. You need more energy to handle the currents and other changing conditions in the open water.If you do find yourself caught in a current, don't panic and don't fight the current. Try to swim parallel to the shore until you are able to get out of the current, which is usually a narrow channel of water. Gradually try to make your way back to shore as you do so. If you're unable to swim away from the current, stay calm and float with the current. The current will usually slow down, then you can swim to shore. Watch the sun. Sun reflecting off the water or off sand can intensify the burning rays. You might not feel sunburned when the water feels cool and refreshing, but the pain will catch up with you later — so remember to reapply sunscreen frequently and cover up much of the time. Don't forget your hat, UV protection sunglasses, and protective clothing. Alcohol and water never mix. Alcohol is involved in numerous water-related injuries and up to half of all waterrelated deaths. The statistics for teenage guys are particularly scary: One half of all adolescent male drownings are tied to alcohol use. Personal flotation devices (Life Jacket). It's always a good idea for everyone on the boat to wear a Coast Guardapproved life jacket, whether the boat is a large speedboat or a canoe — and whether you're a good swimmer or not. Now Have Fun! The pool and the beach are great places to learn new skills and socialize! So don't let paying attention to safety turn you off. Being prepared will make you feel more comfortable and in charge. I hope everyone has a fun and safe July 4th! Your Command Ombudsman, Teresa Tillman
VOLUME 4 ISSUE 7
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Senior Chief petty officer frocking
Fire Controlman Senior Chief Petty Officers Vincent Salcedo (top left) and Irv Hay (top right) are MILIUS’ two newly frocked Senior Chief Petty Officers! The rank was created in 1958 and makes up roughly 2.5% of today’s enlisted force. To be promoted to “Senior” one must have extended time in service and superior evaluation scores. Congratulations to them both!
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USS MILIUS COMMAND NEWSLETTER
FRONTLINE NEWS
The warm days of summer are upon us! And with the longest days of the year, MILIUS Sailors are finding the time to be productive on and off the ship. Among the many events of this past month, MILIUS has received a well deserved award and had the honor of immersing themselves among survivors of pivotal U.S. Naval history. As the summer races by, your Sailors time will be consumed more and more by the ship’s necessities. Be sure to make the most out of these beautiful San Diego days while you can! On June 7th, Captain John T. Beaver, USN, Commodore DESRON 21 presented the crew of the USS MILIUS with the Battle “E” Award. The criterion for the Battle Effectiveness Award is the overall readiness of the command to carry out its assigned wartime tasks, and is based on a year-long evaluation. The competition for the award is, and has always been, extremely keen. To win, a ship or unit must demonstrate the highest state of battle readiness. To achieve the award, one must sustain superior performance in an operational environment within a command. To qualify for Battle "E" consideration, a ship must win a minimum of three out of four Command Excellence awards (Maritime Warfare, Engineering/ Survivability, Command and Control, Logistics Management), and be nominated by their immediate superior in command (DESRON 21). Eligibility for the award demands day-to-day demonstrated excellence in addition to superior achievement during the certifications and qualifications conducted throughout the year. A ship’s performance during training exercises, weapons inspections, and tactical readiness examinations are among the 16 different areas that are considered in the competition. Active duty, retired service members and civilians observed the heroism of World War II veterans at the 71st Anniversary Battle of Midway commemoration aboard the USS Midway Museum, June 1. The Battle of Midway took place June 4-7, 1942, where U.S. Navy carrier strike forces prevented the Japanese from capturing control of Midway Island in the Pacific. The victory proved to be a pivotal point of World War II and is an important marker in naval heritage. "History has shown that the Battle of Midway was absolutely the turning point in the war in the Pacific and probably the entire war of World War II," said Vice Adm. Thomas H. Copeman III, commander Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet. "It was the end of the Japanese offensive six months into the war." During the ceremony, 13 surviving veterans, along with family and friends of those who gave the ultimate sacrifice during the Battle of Midway, were honored by current military personnel and civilians, for their extraordinary service 71 years ago. On June 16th, various members of USS MILIUS attended a Pearl Harbor Survivors Picnic at Admiral Baker Park. Survivors from the surprise Japanese attack gather each year to tell stories, facts, and memories of one of our nation’s darkest hours. On December 7, 1941, six Japanese aircraft carriers launched a coordinated air assault on U.S. Naval Base Pearl Harbor. The attack surprised the unsuspecting Americans on a Sunday morning that saw the loss of four battleships, three cruisers, three destroyers, 188 aircraft, and 2,402 American lives. With the 73rd anniversary of Pearl Harbor approaching this December, our veterans are getting older and our ability to connect with them is fleeting. MILIUS sailors were happy to meet, interact, and hear the one hand accounts of the men of our nation’s greatest generation. The USS Enterprise, the world's first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier has been retired from active service in the U.S. Navy having served longer than any other U.S. aircraft carrier. At 1,123 ft, the ‘Big E’ was the longest naval vessel in the world; she weighed 94,781 long tons and was home to a crew of some 4,600 people. When she was first built in the early 1960s, the Enterprise was meant to be the first of a class of six, but construction costs ballooned and the remaining vessels were never laid down. Enterprise was the second oldest commissioned vessel in the United States Navy, after the woodenhulled, three-masted frigate USS Constitution. The ship had served in every major conflict since participating in a blockade during the Cuban Missile Crisis. With the inactivation, the U.S. fleet is temporarily reduced to 10 aircraft carriers while the USS Gerald R. Ford is built. It will join the fleet in 2015.
VOLUME 4 ISSUE 7
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CREW PHOTOS
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USS MILIUS COMMAND NEWSLETTER
BRAVO
BZ to CTTSN Lowe for stopping welders in SSES and CIC on two occasions when he noticed the welders did not have fire watches present. This is a great example of a junior Sailor knowing the standard and keeping the Ship and our Shipmates safe! BZ to LT Fallon and FCCS Allen for their excellent work while TAD to Exercise Virtual Flag 13-3 in New Mexico. BZ to Combat Systems Department for their corrosion control efforts on the mast. The mast will be blasted and repainted in 2015 during our AMOD, but we can’t let the metal deteriorate until the then. Combat System Sailors had to work hard to the get the job done before we drop the mast scaffolding and they are almost complete. BZ to IT2 Brinkman, IT3 Martin, and IT1 McDaniel for providing excellent and brutally honest feedback regarding the initial convening of the CANES course of instruction. Their feedback has already reached high levels with SPAWAR and OPNAV N2/N6 and will directly impact the rest of the fleet's experience in transitioning to CANES. This is an excellent example of forceful backup! BZ to FCC(SW) Salcedo for his selection as the Surface Forces Pacific nominee for the USS CONSTITUTION George Sirian Award. Chief Salcedo earned runner-up to the overall winner, an East Coast Chief. This annual award recognizes a Chief’s technical expertise, dedication, and leadership in continuation of the historical George Sirian spirit of excellence in our Surface Navy. Congratulations to Chief Salcedo! George Sirian (1818–December 21, 1891) was a Greek war orphan brought into the United States aboard the USS Constitution ("Old Ironsides"). He served in the United States Navy with distinction for over fifty years. BZ to the volunteers for last Sunday’s Pearl Harbor Survivors Picnic. I can’t tell you how proud I am of the Sailors who took time out of their weekend to show some true American heroes how much we respect and value their service to our country. These are the Sailors who represented MILIUS: BZ to the Flight Deck Fire Fighting Team for certifying in the live fire evaluation last week. I need to put this in better perspective for everyone. The school house allots 4 training runs prior to a certification evaluation. Lots of teams use all four sessions prior and some teams fail entirely. Our team earned the certification in only 2 runs with no violations. This certification is the first step an important achievement on our overall Aviation Certification (AVCERT) path. Well done to our team and way to represent MILIUS! BZ to GSEFA Brooks from our Deputy Commodore, Captain Shipman: "I wanted to give a specific shout out to Fireman Brooks; when the CO and RDML Gale entered CCS during our walk-through Thursday morning, she presented the space in 5.0 fashion." Well done, GSEFA Brooks!! BZ to ENFN Sanchez for volunteering for the Pearl Harbor Survivor’s Picnic two Sunday’s ago. ENFN Sanchez was mistakenly left off the initial BZ post and I need to make amends! Well Done! BZ to ENS Clemente, STG2 Balagtas, STG2 Zanini, STG2 Hernandez, STG2 Rybicki, STG3 Sommer, GM3 Smith and SH3 Turner for participating in Habitat for Humanity, assisting 93-year old, Pearl Harbor Veteran, Adam Romero this week. The task included removing/preparing windows for renovations, aiding with daily household work and removing and cleaning false ceiling inserts/tiles. Mr. Romero was a TM2 (Torpedoeman) on board a destroyer tender when Pearl Harbor was attacked and transferred to the USS Collette DD730 during the War. He retired as a TMC. Great job to all the volunteers!
Awards Navy Commendation Medal LSC Gorospe CWO2 Talob LTJG McIntyre LT Gardner Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal OS2 Salgado BM2 Mahoney Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist IC2(SW)Dadlez STG3(SW)Orduna ET3(SW)Jergensen
Enlisted Information Dominance Warfare: CTT1(EIDWS)Overton Reenlistments FCCS Hay IT2 Crowe QM2 Pannell Advancements FCCS Hay FCCS Salcedo FC3 Eade GM3 Salmons EN3 Cafferky
Advancements Cont’d OS2 Dooling GM2 Jarrett PS3 Johnson Senior Sailor of the Quarter: FC1(SW)Minnich Junior Sailor of the Quarter: STG2(SW)Balagtas Blue Jacket of the Quarter: PS3(SW)Rodriguez
VOLUME 4 ISSUE 7
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RESOURCES
Ombudsman (619) 417-9980 Careline: (619) 338-1754 [email protected] Navy 311 1-855-NAVY-311 www.navy311.navy.mil Naval Base San Diego FFSC (619) 556-7404 or (866) 923-6478 American Red Cross (877) 272-7337 www.redcross.org Military OneSource (800) 342-9647 www.militaryonesource.com FOCUS (619) 556-6075 www.focusproject.org NBSD Legal (619) 556-2211 www.jag.navy.mil/legal_services/nlso/nlso_southwest.htm Tri-West Healthcare Alliance (888) 874-9378 www.triwest.com TRICARE Dental Program (800) 866-8499 www.TRICAREdentalprogram.com NMCRS (619) 238-1587/88 www.nmcrs.org USO Downtown Center (619) 235-6503 www.usosandiego.org Naval Base Chapel (619) 556-2658 www.chaplincare.navy.mil Armed Services YMCA (858) 751-5755 www.militaryymca.org Child Development Center (619) 556-8491 Operation Home front (866) 424-5210 www.operationhomefront.net 211 www.211sandiego.org Sitter City www.sittercity.com/dod Women, Infant, & Children (WIC ) Program (800) 500-6411 www.sandiegowic.org Monthly Bread Ministries & Monthly FREE Food Ministries (858)688-5015
Bring your ID card, bags to carry food items. Please contact them for locations and times. We have plenty of other resources for you from Healthy Military Families and Toddler Time to Furniture and Used Items to Websites and Re Sale Goods Items. Call the Ombudsman for more details.
VOLUME 4 ISSUE 7
JULY 2013
F ROM THE CO’ S D ESK
Team MILIUS, I hope everyone had a great (and long) Independence Day weekend. I was glad we were able to provide you some quality time with your Sailor. They, and you, definitely deserve it. I try to tell you every chance I get, but it can’t be over-emphasized: your support is what drives this crew and this great ship of ours. Every good command has great families and you are precisely that. In return, it’s my job to make sure you are informed, that you’re familiar with the resources available to you and that we are doing everything possible to assist you when necessary. I say that now because we’ve created an opportunity next month to get everyone together and discuss the year ahead. On August 7th, we’ll be holding a Town Hall meeting at the Murphy Canyon Chapel from 6pm to 8pm. We’re going to discuss next year’s deployment, introduce our new command ombudsman and start making plans for the reinvigoration of the Milius Family Readiness Group. We’re getting as far out in front of deployment as we can. The sooner you start preparing, the easier it will be when departure time rolls around. I do not want Milius to leave the pier next summer with any Sailor wondering or worrying about their family and the support they’ll receive while he or she is underway. That’s what this Town Hall is going to be geared toward. We’ll have representatives from the Fleet and Family Service Center there to assist us and it’s going to be a great event.Your Sailor will have more information regarding child care, etc. Thank you again for all you do and the sacrifices you make for us and this country. CDR Steve Shedd Commanding Officer USS MILIUS DDG-69
I NSIDE
THIS ISSUE :
CMC’s Call Ccc news CALENDAR OF EVENTS OMBUDSMEN MEMO SCPO FROCKING Milius frontline news CREW PHOTOS Bravo zulu! RESOURCES
2 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
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USS MILIUS COMMAND NEWSLETTER
CMC’s Call
MILIUS families, I wanted to take a minute to point out something that’s happening at the deckplate level onboard MILIUS. Our Sailors are making a commitment to our nation’s veterans. This Saturday several members of Captain Paul Milius’ squadron, VO-67, will visit our ship for a tour and then many of us will be attending their reunion dinner that evening. In preparation for that, more than 20 MILIUS Sailors videotaped messages we’ll play at the event. These greetings will be our Sailors talking about the privilege associated with wearing the uniform, and the honor they feel assigned to a ship named after an American hero. In May, several MILIUS Sailors were on hand at San Diego’s International Airport to welcome home an Honor Flight filled with WWII veterans. Finally, last month, more than a dozen Sailors attended a local Pearl Harbor Survivors picnic at Admiral Baker Park. All of these events have been voluntary and our Sailors value the opportunity to interact with the men and women who have set the standard for us. We’re a better crew, and we’re better Americans, through a greater understanding of the sacrifices made by our Shipmates who’ve gone before us. Sincerely, CMDCM(SW/AW) Bill Houlihan
FROM THE COMMAND CAREER COUNSELOR
Greetings, MILUS Crew, Family & Friends, The month of June we had the announcement of Career Navigation Program via NAV/ADMIN 149/13 and 150/13. Career Navigation Program replaces Perform-to-Serve and the benefits are Sailors and their families will know sooner if they are eligible to reenlist. It will alleviate the stress involved with CMS-ID negotiation process and immediate confirmations they are approved to reenlist, convert, or transition to the reserves. This is great news for our Sailors that are were frustrated with the previous system. It is revised to give more options to our Sailors so they can have time to plan their careers. I wish all of you a Happy Fourth of July and continue to have a great summer!
Sincerely, NC1 (SW/AW) D. Gutierrez
VOLUME 4 ISSUE 7
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JULY JULY
Sun
7 14 21 28
Mon
1 8 15 22 29
Tue
2 9 16 23 30
Wed
3 10 17 24 31
Thu
4 11 18 25
Fri
5 12 19 26
Sat
6 13 20 27
NOTEWORTHY EVENTS
Thursday, July 4 — Independence Day Saturday, July 6 — John Paul Jones’ Birthday Tuesday, July 9 — Ramadan Begins at Sundown Saturday, July 13 — Navy Observation Squadron Sixty-Seven (VO-67) Reunion Visit Saturday, July 20 — 1969: Neil Armstrong is the first man to walk on the moon. July 22 to 26 — Summer Sizzler Softball Tournament
Games played on Naval Base San Diego Softball Fields and run 55 minutes each. Open to all! Prizes awarded! Games played at 5:15, 6:15 and 7:15 pm. 16team single elimination format. Open only to active duty. Call 619-556-7444 for more information. Friday, July 26 • 6:30-9 pm • FREE • 619-553-4259 NBPL Main Base Fitness Center • Bldg. 1, Outdoor Exercise Area @ Smuggler’s Cove Parents and children of all ages are welcome to join MWR Fitness for a night of outdoor family friendly fitness activities followed by a movie. Presented by MWR and USAA.
Friday, July 26 — Family Fitness & Movie Night
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USS MILIUS COMMAND NEWSLETTER
OMBUDSMAN MEMO
Hello MILIUS Families! As some may know already, Jeri Nix and her family have transferred off MILIUS and my family and I will be transferring at the end of the month; unfortunately, this will be my last newsletter to you! I’ve enjoyed my time serving the amazing families we have on MILIUS and hopefully I’ll run into you again! We’re still looking for more ombudsman applicants to step in and if you’re interested, please contact our CMC at [email protected]. If you would like a detailed description of “what is an ombudsman? What are the roles/duties?” please email me at [email protected] and I can send you the general description. This is a great opportunity to play a vital role within the MILIUS family! With that being said, it’s certainly been hot around town and it can get tough sometimes trying to beat the heat so thought it would be a good idea to share some summer safety tips! "Buddy up!" That's what swimming instructors say. Always swim with a partner, every time — whether you're swimming in a backyard pool or in a lake. Even experienced swimmers can become tired or get muscle cramps, which might make it difficult to get out of the water. When people swim together, they can help each other or go for help in case of an emergency. Know your limits. Swimming can be a lot of fun — and you might want to stay in the water as long as possible. If you're not a good swimmer or you're just learning to swim, don't go in water that's so deep you can't touch the bottom and don't try to keep up with skilled swimmers.If you are a good swimmer and have had lessons, keep an eye on friends who aren't as comfortable or as skilled as you are. If it seems like they (or you) are getting tired or a little uneasy, suggest that you take a break from swimming for a while. Swim in safe areas only. It's a good idea to swim only in places that are supervised by a lifeguard. No one can anticipate changing ocean currents, rip currents, sudden storms, or other hidden dangers. In the event that something does go wrong, lifeguards are trained in rescue techniques. Swimming in an open body of water (like a river, lake, or ocean) is different from swimming in a pool. You need more energy to handle the currents and other changing conditions in the open water.If you do find yourself caught in a current, don't panic and don't fight the current. Try to swim parallel to the shore until you are able to get out of the current, which is usually a narrow channel of water. Gradually try to make your way back to shore as you do so. If you're unable to swim away from the current, stay calm and float with the current. The current will usually slow down, then you can swim to shore. Watch the sun. Sun reflecting off the water or off sand can intensify the burning rays. You might not feel sunburned when the water feels cool and refreshing, but the pain will catch up with you later — so remember to reapply sunscreen frequently and cover up much of the time. Don't forget your hat, UV protection sunglasses, and protective clothing. Alcohol and water never mix. Alcohol is involved in numerous water-related injuries and up to half of all waterrelated deaths. The statistics for teenage guys are particularly scary: One half of all adolescent male drownings are tied to alcohol use. Personal flotation devices (Life Jacket). It's always a good idea for everyone on the boat to wear a Coast Guardapproved life jacket, whether the boat is a large speedboat or a canoe — and whether you're a good swimmer or not. Now Have Fun! The pool and the beach are great places to learn new skills and socialize! So don't let paying attention to safety turn you off. Being prepared will make you feel more comfortable and in charge. I hope everyone has a fun and safe July 4th! Your Command Ombudsman, Teresa Tillman
VOLUME 4 ISSUE 7
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Senior Chief petty officer frocking
Fire Controlman Senior Chief Petty Officers Vincent Salcedo (top left) and Irv Hay (top right) are MILIUS’ two newly frocked Senior Chief Petty Officers! The rank was created in 1958 and makes up roughly 2.5% of today’s enlisted force. To be promoted to “Senior” one must have extended time in service and superior evaluation scores. Congratulations to them both!
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USS MILIUS COMMAND NEWSLETTER
FRONTLINE NEWS
The warm days of summer are upon us! And with the longest days of the year, MILIUS Sailors are finding the time to be productive on and off the ship. Among the many events of this past month, MILIUS has received a well deserved award and had the honor of immersing themselves among survivors of pivotal U.S. Naval history. As the summer races by, your Sailors time will be consumed more and more by the ship’s necessities. Be sure to make the most out of these beautiful San Diego days while you can! On June 7th, Captain John T. Beaver, USN, Commodore DESRON 21 presented the crew of the USS MILIUS with the Battle “E” Award. The criterion for the Battle Effectiveness Award is the overall readiness of the command to carry out its assigned wartime tasks, and is based on a year-long evaluation. The competition for the award is, and has always been, extremely keen. To win, a ship or unit must demonstrate the highest state of battle readiness. To achieve the award, one must sustain superior performance in an operational environment within a command. To qualify for Battle "E" consideration, a ship must win a minimum of three out of four Command Excellence awards (Maritime Warfare, Engineering/ Survivability, Command and Control, Logistics Management), and be nominated by their immediate superior in command (DESRON 21). Eligibility for the award demands day-to-day demonstrated excellence in addition to superior achievement during the certifications and qualifications conducted throughout the year. A ship’s performance during training exercises, weapons inspections, and tactical readiness examinations are among the 16 different areas that are considered in the competition. Active duty, retired service members and civilians observed the heroism of World War II veterans at the 71st Anniversary Battle of Midway commemoration aboard the USS Midway Museum, June 1. The Battle of Midway took place June 4-7, 1942, where U.S. Navy carrier strike forces prevented the Japanese from capturing control of Midway Island in the Pacific. The victory proved to be a pivotal point of World War II and is an important marker in naval heritage. "History has shown that the Battle of Midway was absolutely the turning point in the war in the Pacific and probably the entire war of World War II," said Vice Adm. Thomas H. Copeman III, commander Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet. "It was the end of the Japanese offensive six months into the war." During the ceremony, 13 surviving veterans, along with family and friends of those who gave the ultimate sacrifice during the Battle of Midway, were honored by current military personnel and civilians, for their extraordinary service 71 years ago. On June 16th, various members of USS MILIUS attended a Pearl Harbor Survivors Picnic at Admiral Baker Park. Survivors from the surprise Japanese attack gather each year to tell stories, facts, and memories of one of our nation’s darkest hours. On December 7, 1941, six Japanese aircraft carriers launched a coordinated air assault on U.S. Naval Base Pearl Harbor. The attack surprised the unsuspecting Americans on a Sunday morning that saw the loss of four battleships, three cruisers, three destroyers, 188 aircraft, and 2,402 American lives. With the 73rd anniversary of Pearl Harbor approaching this December, our veterans are getting older and our ability to connect with them is fleeting. MILIUS sailors were happy to meet, interact, and hear the one hand accounts of the men of our nation’s greatest generation. The USS Enterprise, the world's first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier has been retired from active service in the U.S. Navy having served longer than any other U.S. aircraft carrier. At 1,123 ft, the ‘Big E’ was the longest naval vessel in the world; she weighed 94,781 long tons and was home to a crew of some 4,600 people. When she was first built in the early 1960s, the Enterprise was meant to be the first of a class of six, but construction costs ballooned and the remaining vessels were never laid down. Enterprise was the second oldest commissioned vessel in the United States Navy, after the woodenhulled, three-masted frigate USS Constitution. The ship had served in every major conflict since participating in a blockade during the Cuban Missile Crisis. With the inactivation, the U.S. fleet is temporarily reduced to 10 aircraft carriers while the USS Gerald R. Ford is built. It will join the fleet in 2015.
VOLUME 4 ISSUE 7
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CREW PHOTOS
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USS MILIUS COMMAND NEWSLETTER
BRAVO
BZ to CTTSN Lowe for stopping welders in SSES and CIC on two occasions when he noticed the welders did not have fire watches present. This is a great example of a junior Sailor knowing the standard and keeping the Ship and our Shipmates safe! BZ to LT Fallon and FCCS Allen for their excellent work while TAD to Exercise Virtual Flag 13-3 in New Mexico. BZ to Combat Systems Department for their corrosion control efforts on the mast. The mast will be blasted and repainted in 2015 during our AMOD, but we can’t let the metal deteriorate until the then. Combat System Sailors had to work hard to the get the job done before we drop the mast scaffolding and they are almost complete. BZ to IT2 Brinkman, IT3 Martin, and IT1 McDaniel for providing excellent and brutally honest feedback regarding the initial convening of the CANES course of instruction. Their feedback has already reached high levels with SPAWAR and OPNAV N2/N6 and will directly impact the rest of the fleet's experience in transitioning to CANES. This is an excellent example of forceful backup! BZ to FCC(SW) Salcedo for his selection as the Surface Forces Pacific nominee for the USS CONSTITUTION George Sirian Award. Chief Salcedo earned runner-up to the overall winner, an East Coast Chief. This annual award recognizes a Chief’s technical expertise, dedication, and leadership in continuation of the historical George Sirian spirit of excellence in our Surface Navy. Congratulations to Chief Salcedo! George Sirian (1818–December 21, 1891) was a Greek war orphan brought into the United States aboard the USS Constitution ("Old Ironsides"). He served in the United States Navy with distinction for over fifty years. BZ to the volunteers for last Sunday’s Pearl Harbor Survivors Picnic. I can’t tell you how proud I am of the Sailors who took time out of their weekend to show some true American heroes how much we respect and value their service to our country. These are the Sailors who represented MILIUS: BZ to the Flight Deck Fire Fighting Team for certifying in the live fire evaluation last week. I need to put this in better perspective for everyone. The school house allots 4 training runs prior to a certification evaluation. Lots of teams use all four sessions prior and some teams fail entirely. Our team earned the certification in only 2 runs with no violations. This certification is the first step an important achievement on our overall Aviation Certification (AVCERT) path. Well done to our team and way to represent MILIUS! BZ to GSEFA Brooks from our Deputy Commodore, Captain Shipman: "I wanted to give a specific shout out to Fireman Brooks; when the CO and RDML Gale entered CCS during our walk-through Thursday morning, she presented the space in 5.0 fashion." Well done, GSEFA Brooks!! BZ to ENFN Sanchez for volunteering for the Pearl Harbor Survivor’s Picnic two Sunday’s ago. ENFN Sanchez was mistakenly left off the initial BZ post and I need to make amends! Well Done! BZ to ENS Clemente, STG2 Balagtas, STG2 Zanini, STG2 Hernandez, STG2 Rybicki, STG3 Sommer, GM3 Smith and SH3 Turner for participating in Habitat for Humanity, assisting 93-year old, Pearl Harbor Veteran, Adam Romero this week. The task included removing/preparing windows for renovations, aiding with daily household work and removing and cleaning false ceiling inserts/tiles. Mr. Romero was a TM2 (Torpedoeman) on board a destroyer tender when Pearl Harbor was attacked and transferred to the USS Collette DD730 during the War. He retired as a TMC. Great job to all the volunteers!
Awards Navy Commendation Medal LSC Gorospe CWO2 Talob LTJG McIntyre LT Gardner Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal OS2 Salgado BM2 Mahoney Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist IC2(SW)Dadlez STG3(SW)Orduna ET3(SW)Jergensen
Enlisted Information Dominance Warfare: CTT1(EIDWS)Overton Reenlistments FCCS Hay IT2 Crowe QM2 Pannell Advancements FCCS Hay FCCS Salcedo FC3 Eade GM3 Salmons EN3 Cafferky
Advancements Cont’d OS2 Dooling GM2 Jarrett PS3 Johnson Senior Sailor of the Quarter: FC1(SW)Minnich Junior Sailor of the Quarter: STG2(SW)Balagtas Blue Jacket of the Quarter: PS3(SW)Rodriguez
VOLUME 4 ISSUE 7
P AGE 9
RESOURCES
Ombudsman (619) 417-9980 Careline: (619) 338-1754 [email protected] Navy 311 1-855-NAVY-311 www.navy311.navy.mil Naval Base San Diego FFSC (619) 556-7404 or (866) 923-6478 American Red Cross (877) 272-7337 www.redcross.org Military OneSource (800) 342-9647 www.militaryonesource.com FOCUS (619) 556-6075 www.focusproject.org NBSD Legal (619) 556-2211 www.jag.navy.mil/legal_services/nlso/nlso_southwest.htm Tri-West Healthcare Alliance (888) 874-9378 www.triwest.com TRICARE Dental Program (800) 866-8499 www.TRICAREdentalprogram.com NMCRS (619) 238-1587/88 www.nmcrs.org USO Downtown Center (619) 235-6503 www.usosandiego.org Naval Base Chapel (619) 556-2658 www.chaplincare.navy.mil Armed Services YMCA (858) 751-5755 www.militaryymca.org Child Development Center (619) 556-8491 Operation Home front (866) 424-5210 www.operationhomefront.net 211 www.211sandiego.org Sitter City www.sittercity.com/dod Women, Infant, & Children (WIC ) Program (800) 500-6411 www.sandiegowic.org Monthly Bread Ministries & Monthly FREE Food Ministries (858)688-5015
Bring your ID card, bags to carry food items. Please contact them for locations and times. We have plenty of other resources for you from Healthy Military Families and Toddler Time to Furniture and Used Items to Websites and Re Sale Goods Items. Call the Ombudsman for more details.
