the signature, march 27, 2015

USMC: NAS SIGONELLA

Working with allies against trafficking.

PAGE 5

Vol. 32 No. 12

Sigonella Swordfish:See how they did

at nationals!PAGE 8

NEX Mini-mart!Changes are "winning"!

PAGE 4

March 27, 2015

On March 8, 2014, Sigonella’s Seabees put on a fantastic 72nd Bee birthday ball bash at Villa Oasis in Acireale that allowed those in attendance a time to unwind and celebrate their proud history all while looking back on some of Sigonella’s Public Works Department (PWD) momentous accomplishments since gathering the year prior. The goal may have sounded

simple enough then – continue implementing conservation-minded improvements so as new programs and buildings rise, costs and waste plummet – but making their goal reality was anything but easy.

Before that night was through, guest speaker and NAS Sigonella Commanding Officer, Capt. Chris Dennis, addressed the crowd with a final shout, “You’re going to keep marching forward every day!”

Indeed he was correct. While the 2015 Sigonella Seabee Anniversary Ball was held in a different location, this year’s March 13 celebration permitted the “Bees” a similar formal occasion in which to recognize just how far Seabees and Team PW marched.

Over the past year, in addition to its day-to-day operations, PWD made several base enhancements to include: vast improvements to water plants on NAS 1 and NAS 2 that continue to provide our community with even cleaner water; completion of the $1.6 million NAS 2 gymnasium restoration equipped with energy-saving light sensors, and a system that makes real-time climate adjustments; and continuous upgrades to NAS Sigonella’s base recycling program aimed at promoting conversation, awareness, and base cleanliness.

Assembling a gathering worthy of honoring the Seabees and other Public Works members this year was not easy; but just like Seabees “do” they made the annual celebration better than before. This year’s event took place in Vizzini – a quaint village known for its ricotta cheese – in an agriturismo fashioned from an area used as a forward operating base where legion soldiers had their leatherwork and armor repaired during the Roman Empire’s heyday.

To help make the evening a success, White and other Seabees worked throughout the year, raising funds to host the event and provide some great raffle prizes including custom made wine racks, barrels, and several replica Seabee recruitment posters. “We sold burritos, baked goods, pulled pork sandwiches and ribs. We also set up booths at Autumnfest, and the Fourth of July festival.”

Funds raised also helped pay for the entertainment provided by local band “Walking Trees.”

To add even more intrigue into the mix, this year’s guest speaker was none other than NAS Sigonella Command Master Chief Mike Kaszubowski. Standing in front of guests with a Seabee insignia emblazoned inside the coat of his service dress jacket, Kaszubowski provided evening attendees with much-appreciated comments.

“He gave an inspiring speech not just praising our history, but our current accomplishments as well,” said this year’s Seabee ball committee president, Construction Mechanic 1st Class Ian White. “That is what this night is about – getting together, celebrating our history, and being proud of who we are as Seabees.”

Sig’ Seabees celebrate 73 years of ‘Can Do!’

by ut1 Daniel gooDwinNAS SigonellaPublic Works Department

From left, NAS Sigonella Command Master Chief Mike Kaszubowski, Cmdr. Morgan Shepard, the oldest Seabee present, Builder Constructionman Mason Crane, the youngest Seabee present, and NAS Sigonella Public Works Director, Cmdr. Deanna Carpenter, smile for a photo prior to sawing into a cake, during the 73rd Sigonella Seabee Anniversary Ball, March 13. (U.S. Navy photo by Equipment Operator Constructionman Destiny Borden)

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - "Hub of the Med" is the most popular catchphrase used to describe NAS Sigonella. For Navy Munitions Command (NMC) Detachment Sigonella that tag takes on a special meaning when asked to safely and smartly transport Tomahawk Land Attack Missiles (TLAMs) to awaiting ships – armament critical in making its recipients "mission ready."

Whether directly loading missiles onto a vessel or orchestrating the cross-decking of Tomahawks from one ship to another, NMC Sailors are trained and ready to facilitate. But just like any job safety and handling standards are vital and proficiency must be proven. To make sure Sigonella's NMC detachment was equal to the task, the command was recently put through a rigorous five-month recertification process to continue operation of their Vertical Launch System (VLS) site and Tomahawk missile transfers – no small task. From November until early March recertification required the passionate focus of every NMC member, not only so they wouldn't let down one another, but the Navy as a whole.

"Sigonella is strategically placed to serve ships in the 5th and 6th Fleet," said Chief Aviation Ordnanceman Chad Thomas, NMC's Operations lead chief petty officer. "Without our VLS qualification ships would have to travel farther outside their theater of operation to receive TLAMs necessary to carry out their mission. This would cost the Navy considerably more money and delay ships in the area."

The TLAM VLS requalification cycle started in November 2014 with the Logistics Evaluation. The "Log Eval" is almost exactly what it sounds like. Toward the end of last year an inspecting team from Surface Logistics Fleet Support out of Newport, RI came to Sigonella, combing through every applicable piece of NMC equipment to ensure maintenance was carried out and properly documented so that no piece might be deemed obsolete.

In February, another team of instructors from Submarine Learning Center Detachment San Diego spent a week overseeing the NMC team in the proper inspection of a Tomahawk missile, the removal of its packaging, handling, storage and transportation (PHST) equipment, and the safe procedures on the movement of missiles on and off the ships with the assistance of a Public Works crane crew. After the missile was returned to its proper PHST state, the training phase continued with a fuel spill drill. Guiding the progression were step-by-step procedures and

checkpoints allowing the evolution to flow safely. "This kind of training is really good for everyone," said

Aviation Ordnanceman Shelby Navarre. "Slowing things down is really helpful not only for those of us who've done these missile lifts before, but also for our new Sailors who haven't. In the end, everyone learns something."

Though things were going well, the recertification wasn't yet finished. In fact, the actual test was still weeks away. Out of critiques, observation, and some salient advice, a plan for procedural improvements was devised and the training and inspection portion of the reassessment was done.

After months of preparation since the VLS recertification process began, NMC Detachment Sigonella was ready to be assessed. From March 3-5 the examination took place as NMC members put to use skills sharpened by critiques, but truly honed before the instructors had even arrived. The truth is their acumen had long been entrenched into

the family of professionals, who throughout the year used every opportunity to train and execute the essential TLAM mission. In the end, recertification was granted.

Though the process is tough, the instructors and assessment team are also on site to help weapons handlers. Still, too much error during an assessment would have been a big issue for the command.

"If any site were to fail, we would work with that site to create a 'get-well' plan to get them back up to standard," said Chris Turley, an inspector from the PMA-280 Tomahawk Weapons System program office that governs VLS programs. "However, if any site failed in such a major way as to justify pulling the qualification completely, we would no longer consider that location in the future." Fortunately, the professionalism and dedication of NMC members stationed here never gave Turley and his crew any reason to do anything but keep Tomahawk support right where it should be - in Sigonella, "Hub of the Med."

NMC recertification keeps VLS in 'Hub of the Med'by ao3 Marina vegaNavy Munitions Command Detachment Sigonella

Gunner's Mate 2nd Class Hunter Lawson uses hand signals to direct the crane lift of an empty container simulated to have a TLAM inside during the vertical launch system recertification exercise at Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella, March 4. The three-part recertification process was held at Sigonella's Navy Munitions Command. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Donavan K. Patubo/Released)

tHe Signature March 27, 2015 tHe Signature Page 3March 27, 2015

Saluti Sigonella!First – HAPPY BIRTHDAY SEABEES! Sev-

enty-three years old and still going strong. I at-tended the awesome birthday celebration and let me tell you – what a great event surrounded by really awesome leaders, Sailors, and family members. Seabees on this base no doubt con-tinue to make a difference and their work ethic never ceases to amaze me. CAN DO Seabees and Happy Birthday!

We have also had many Active Duty Fund Drive activities happening around the base and we are making great progress raising money for such a great organization. Although we have not reached out goal yet, I have confidence we will push hard till the end and do our best as a com-munity to contribute as much as we all can. BZ goes out to this whole community and everyone who has supported the events that have been happening all around the base.

Coming in April is Sexual Assault aware-ness month. There are many activities, BBQs, walks and trainings that will happen and I look forward to being a part of all of them. As every command attends Bystander Intervention to the Fleet, I ask each and every Sailor to have an open dialogue and honest talk while attending the training. I recently attended the class with the wonderful Sailors at the hospital and let me tell you – I learned a lot and it was all because of the dialogue we were having. I encourage every-one who attends to be an active member in the sessions to get the most out of them.

April 1 is fast approaching and that specific day has a special place in my heart as it is the birthday of the Chief Petty Officer. On April 1, our entire mess will pause to celebrate 122 years of the United States Chief Petty Officer, our honored mess traditions and heritage, and look to our future. But we’re not just celebrating an-other year of chiefs serving the Navy; we’re cele-brating everything it means to be the chief. Our

anchors are the symbol of a culture and a way of life. Since 1893, chiefs have been charged with the responsibility of en-suring our Sailors are the best in the world, ready to carry out our Navy’s mission when our nation calls. We welcome that responsibility and lead by example with pride, character, and loyalty, a strong commitment to leadership, our core val-ues, and the Navy ethos. I look forward to cutting the cake with every chief here in Sigonella – we all have much to be proud of!

Finally, last weekend I travelled to Rome for the weekend to watch our High School Soccer teams compete in a game and it was awesome. Al-though both the girls and boys teams lost, they played with such passion, heart and agility I was absolutely impressed. They played against a Di-vision 2 team, which is a division higher than us, and they played great. I loved being in the bleachers cheering for our school and I look forward to attending more games. I also had time to do some sightseeing and for everyone who reads this - I highly en-courage you to visit Rome and see some sites. The Vatican took my breath away and the Sist-ine Chapel was simply amazing. I also ventured

to the Coliseum and that was just awe-inspiring. Imagining the battles that took place there, it was such an important place in Roman history. Bottom line – get off this island, go see Europe and the amazing sites that are all around.

As always Sigonella, lead by example, create opportunities for others to succeed and have a positive attitude. See you around the base.

Interactive Customer Evaluation

THE SIGNATUREU.S. NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA

Commanding OfficerCapt. Chris Dennis

Executive OfficerCmdr. Charles G. McKinney II

Command Master ChiefCMDCM Mike Kaszubowski

EDITORIAL

Public Affairs Officer Lt. Paul Newell

[email protected]

EditorM. Todd Butler

[email protected]

Community Relations Officer Dott. Alberto Lunetta

[email protected]

PAO Staff Writers \ PhotographersMC1 Tony D. Curtis

[email protected]

MC3 Ramon [email protected]

CONTACT USNaval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily

[email protected] 624-5440; 095-86-5440

PSC 812 Box 7, FPO, AE 09627-0001

PUBLISHERStampa Generale S.r.l.,

Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher,Naval Support Activity

Capodichino (Naples), [email protected]

Tel. 081-568-7884Fax 081-568-7887

This civilian enterprise (CE) newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services overseas. Contents of The

Signature are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the

Department of Defense (DoD), or the U.S. Navy. The appearance of advertising

in this newspaper, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement

by the DoD or Stampa Generale S.r.l., of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made

available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex,

national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factorof the purchaser, user or

patron. A confirmed violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser

will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source until the violation is

corrected.

The Signature is published weekly by Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi,

Publisher, Naval Support Activity, Capodichino (Naples), Italy.

Tel. 081-568-7884. Fax 081-568-7887. E-mail: [email protected].

Editorial submissions are welcomed from all Naval Air Station Sigonella departments,

divisions and tenant commands. Editorial submissions should be sent to the Public

Affairs Office via [email protected], guard mail stop #68 or hand-delivered to our office no later than the close of business on the Fri-

day proceeding the expected publication date. All articles submitted by non-staff members

will be considered contributing writers.

The Signature will not publish anyanonymous articles. All advertisements in this publication are the property of Stampa Generale S.r.l. Any

reproduction of advertisements in The Signature is unauthorized without the

written consent of the publisher.cnic.navy.mil/sigonella

There are two ways to submit feed back to Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella Commanding Officer Capt. Chris Dennis:

Visit The Interactive Customer Evaluation (ICE) home page on a One-Net computer at: http://ice.disa.mil, All Sigonella services are found under the Navy Europe Listing in the scroll-down menu. Also, visit NAS Sigonella's website www.cnic.navy.mil/Sigonella, go to the "About" drop down menu and click on " CO Suggestion Box".

The Signature will anonymously publish comments and responses for the benefit of the Sigonella community. If you are submitting a "BZ", we ask that you provide your name in order for us to properly recognize employee. Please make sure your comments and suggestions are constructive. In other words, "BE NICE ON ICE."

Commanding Officer's Suggestion Box

CommandingOfficer’s

Box

Suggestion EvaluationCustomerInteractive

Command Master Chief Mike KaszubowskiDirect Line

We're witness to plenty of proof backing up the old adage that there's power in numbers. A weekend getaway is a little easier to enjoy with $500 in the pocket vice $5. Watching football is more agreeable when your team has more points than their opponent. And even the ancient Spartans, who seemed content to make due with whatever numbers they could muster, probably wouldn't have fussed had a couple extra bodies showed up to supplement their 300 at Thermopylae.

Unlike that band of brothers who perished because no reinforcements came to their aid, the installation's modern day Spartans - Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella's Security Force - can rely on the Auxiliary Security Force (ASF) when support is needed.

After three weeks of intense training, 15 more motivated warriors recently graduated from the Security Department's ASF Academy, bringing much welcomed support to an ever-changing force protection landscape demanding heightened requirements to safeguard our community from those hoping to do us harm.

"[ASF] is viewed and expected to perform at the same level of their master-at-arms counterparts," said NAS Sigonella Security Department Training Officer, Chief Master-at-Arms John Richardson. "ASF is vital. If there is a situation where we need to raise force protections condition (FPCON), we rely on them to augment and supply manpower so that we can fully integrate the security plan."

Richardson said ASF Academy includes classroom time and hands-on training. The second portion of instruction has students experience hand-to-hand self-defense, tactical communication and team movements, and the sting of Oleoresin Capsicum (pepper) spray. There's also range time to qualify the M9 pistol, M4 rifle, and M500 shotgun.

Security records date the beginning of the academy to 2009. Since then, 28 classes have graduated from NAS Sigonella with three scheduled for later this year.

The base is fortunate to have one of the region's largest auxiliary security forces since Security relies on them to support their operations. Conversely, ABHAN Matthew Brooks, an activated ASF member from Operation's Department, said he feels fortunate for the unique out-of-rate opportunity to serve the base, volunteering ASF because his father does private security in the civilian sector and he wanted to better understand what his father does. "I've always wanted to experience the hard work master-at-arms go through on a day-to-day basis and the work they do here at NAS Sigonella," Brooks said. "I enjoy being part this community as an ASF Member."

In addition to serving as an extra layer of vigilance when needed, ASF members are often called upon to assists when VIPs visit the installation, or during large events like concerts, open-base events, and other functions.

Richardson said ASF is looking for interested service members with good character and a desire to help keep the base safe and secure. To join you must be a non-deployable E-6 and below, have passed both physical readiness tests within the past year, have no non-judicial punishments within the past two years, no misdemeanor or felonies of any sort, and support from your chain of command. "Overall, we are looking for that mature person with good moral character." Additionally, Richardson said ASF is a unique vice members to gain experience for those looking to pursue a career in law enforcement. "It's a great collateral duty for them and it's a great tool for networking," Richardson said.

The next academy session is slated to take place March 30 to April 17. Any service member looking for more information about ASF should first check with their chain of command, and then contact Master-at-Arms 2nd Class Gary Vargas at 624-5177, or by email at: [email protected].

Interested members are also welcomed to stop by the security training office in Building 724 to learn more.

NASSIG's Auxiliary Security Force: Power in numbersby Ma1 brian a. teartNAS Sigonella Security Department

Equipment Operator 3rd Class Michael Swan, left, an Auxiliary Security Forces (ASF) member and Master-at-Arms 2nd Class Charles Clark inspect a vehicle on NAS Sigonella. (U.S. Navy photo by Master-at-Arms 1st Class Brian Teart/Released)

SECNAV commemorates Battle of Iwo JimaFrom Secretary of the Navy Public Affairs

IWO TO, Japan (NNS) -- Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus arrived on Iwo To, the island formerly known as Iwo Jima, March 21 to attend the 70th anniversary commemoration of the Battle of Iwo Jima.

On the island where, in 1945, the United States and Japan met in conflict, Mabus spoke of the bravery displayed by those who fought for both sides during the historic World War II Bat-tle for Iwo Jima.

"Simply walk through the black sands of Iwo Jima's shores and spend a moment in one of its dark tunnels," said Mabus. "Only then can you begin to fathom the unbelievable, and at some level, past human, fortitude it took to charge these beaches under withering fire, or to fight from a subterranean labyrinth for 36 days. A few heroes here know that courage. The rest of us can simply wonder with awe and admiration and respect."

During the battle, the Japanese lost 21,750 members of their armed forces. The U.S. lost 6,821 and suffered 26,038 casualties.

The ceremony brought together representa-tives of the nations who fought so fiercely 70 years ago to honor the veterans of this battle, some of whom were in attendance.

"On behalf of generations of grateful Ameri-cans," said Mabus. "I thank the veterans who sit here among us and those who are here today only in spirit. Legends of your intrepidity here at Iwo Jima will echo through the ages."

Mabus also recognized the strength of the

relationship between the U.S. and Japan, two former adversaries that have grown to become strong allies.

"While we gather here in commemoration of 93,000 sons of Japan and the United States, who fought on these sands as bitter enemies sev-en decades ago," said Mabus, "there is no better way to honor their legacy than to underscore the bond that now exists between our two great na-tions as a result of what they did here."

Joining Mabus at the commemoration, among others, were Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. Joseph F. Dunford, Jr., Japanese Min-

ister of Defense Gen Nakatani and Japanese Am-bassador to the United States Kenichiro Sasae.

Similar commemorations have been held each year since 1995 when the the surviving vet-erans of the Iwo Jima Association of America and the Japanese Iwo To Association agreed to meet every year on Iwo To to remember the bat-tle with a reunion of honor.

Mabus' stop in Iwo To is part of a multi-na-tion visit to the U.S. Pacific Command area of responsibility focused on reinforcing existing partnerships and visiting Sailors and Marines forward deployed.

Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV) Ray Mabus delivers remarks at the 70th anniversary commemoration ceremony of The Battle for Iwo Jima in Iwo To, Japan. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Sam Shavers/Released)

Comment regarding "MAs Directing Traffic Outside NAS 2 Gate":Captain, thank you for the week-in, week-out attention to ICE comments. I am concerned for security members who stand outside the NAS 2 gate in the morning directing traffic. I think their safety is being compromised and feel compelled to say something on their behalf. I have personally seen several close calls of "speeders" and am worried it's only a matter of time before something tragic happens. Have we entertained the thought of having ITAF or other LN authorities direct traffic with a "lollipop" or other method? I think this would be a safer alternative. Also, what jurisdiction does our security team have in stopping local nationals since this area is technically off base? Again, thank you Captain.

Response:Thank you for your concerns and willingness to share them. I have the same apprehensions. The NAS 2 gate is extremely congested, especially during rush hour, which is why our traffic directors are present. To mitigate risks our directors are outfitted with high-visibility reflective gear. Providing traffic direction at that location allows less traffic buildup outside the installation, and generally safer approaches to the gate. Our off-base traffic directors do have limited jurisdiction (to U.S. and U.S. base pass holders) but their real purpose is to provide order out of chaos. We share many challenges with Host Nation Law Enforcement and I could not be more pleased with the support and collaboration between us - much unseen by our Sigonella American public. This is why we presently shoulder NAS 2 traffic directing. Still, our relationship is dynamic, and in the future roles and responsibilities may adjust toward a more natural situation. One final point, as a base we are pursuing FY-18 funding to upgrade our entry control points for both NAS 1 and NAS 2. Again, thank you for your commitment to our community. If you have other comments or suggestions regarding this or other security issues, please contact my Security Officer, Lt. Chuck Cranston, at 624-6392 or [email protected].

tHe SignaturePage 4 March 27, 2015 tHe Signature Page 5March 27, 2015

U.S. Marines and Tanzanians work to fight illicit trafficking

SELOUS GAME RESERVE, Tanzania – Tanzanian park rangers worked with U.S. Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa to help counter illicit trafficking throughout the country.

A team of approximately 15 Marines and Sailors taught the park rangers operation orders and land navigation skills at the Selous Game Reserve in Matambwe, Tanzania, March 9-11. The park rangers learned how to write operation orders and rehearsed writing their own orders, ultimately leading them through a simulated reconnaissance patrol and land navigation exercise.

“We wanted to teach a concise way to convey all the information in order to complete a mission,” said Staff Sgt. Frederick Volz II, the staff-noncommissioned officer in charge of Security Cooperation Team-6, the group tasked with conducting these courses.

The park rangers broke into five squads and wrote their order together before briefing a Marine who acted as a squad advisor during the patrol.

“One of our most important methods is

breaking down the large group of Tanzanians into eight or nine-man squads per one or two Marines. This allows more of a collaboration of ideas to flow back and forth, rather than just having a Marine teaching,” said Volz.

After, the park rangers received a class on land navigation. Marines, Sailors and park rangers then applied their knowledge by conducting a land navigation exercise, patrolling their way from one objective to the next, utilizing training from earlier courses.

“Not only were they conducting land navigation, but they had the opportunity to practice the patrolling skills we taught last week. Throughout our training, they are reinforcing techniques they have learned previously,” said Volz.

The training, scheduled to end on March 27, not only offers the Tanzanians an opportunity to learn from the Marines and Sailors, it allows the rangers to show the U.S. service members a new culture and enhance their own proficiency as leaders and mentors.

“Even though we’re here to teach the park rangers our methods, we’re still learning a lot from them, too,” said Volz. “We don’t expect them to take our methods and copy them exactly, but we hope they can adjust them as needed to fulfill their own obligations.”

U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Kyle McAuliffe, a rifleman and squad advisor assigned to the Theater Security Cooperation team with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, helps a team of Tanzanian park rangers shoot an azimuth on a compass before conducting a simulated reconnaissance patrol and land navigation exercise at the Selous Game Reserve in Matambwe, Tanzania, March 11. McAuliffe was one of approximately 15 Marines and Sailors teaching the park rangers mission analysis, order writing, and land navigation skills. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Lucas J. Hopkins/Released)

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Making money isn’t the only telltale in whether a venture has been successful; but it’s a pretty good one – especially for a business. In the five months since the Navy Exchange (NEX) here finished its NAS 2 mini-mart renovations the substantial uptick in product moving off its shelves validates the suspicions that led to the overhaul: that those living on NAS 2 needed both healthier selections and an overall increase of food products from which to choose.

"Because of the operations on that base, we needed to make sure that there were more food options over there for people to choose from," said Julie Herring, NEX general manager. “You can definitely see it in our sales. We have double-digit increases in the food and drink categories since we've expanded, so I think the customers are reaping the benefits."

The increase in mini-mart sales floor square-footage has allowed a large influx in drink and food items from which patrons can choose. From a broader variety of cereals, to the new addition of ready-made sandwiches, shoppers now have a larger selection of choices to get them through their daily hunger pains.

"I've noticed a lot more nutrition bars, which is great when you're just looking for a healthy little snack to get you to lunch or through the end of your work day," said Yeoman 2nd Class Chad Grant, a NAS 2 resident who has taken advantage of the mini-mart changes. "The deli sandwiches are another good addition. I mean, who doesn't like a good sandwich for lunch? And the best part is they're already made for you."

In the end, it appears that all are benefitting to include NAS 2 shoppers who can now make a quick stop by the mini-mart to pick up some sour cream, crackers, and Mexican cheese, adding those needed finishing touches to a chili dinner. Before the changes those items had to be purchased at the NAS 1 commissary.

"The mini-mart may not have everything you need, but when it does, it makes life so much easier," said Marinai resident Hannah Butler. "There have

been several occasions when I've needed something as simple as soy sauce, for example, and it's so nice to know I don't have to drive all the way to NAS 1 to get it. The fact that they've added so much to the store tells me they're trying to make things even more convenient for their customers."

With renovations complete and shelves stocked, Herring said they are now fine-tuning future products to satisfy their customers’ needs. "When we review sales by item, we can see where changes can

be made," she said. "If we see a particular product isn't selling, we can stop carrying it and add more of an item we're selling out of."

The only remaining change left to be made is the overall store aesthetic, a process Herring said will give the store the same look and feel of other NEX locations around the world. Until that time, those who visited the mini-mart in the last five months, or at all, might do so and take inventory of all the new selections there to better serve their patrons.

Mini-mart renovation creates win-win situationby MC2 Donavan K. PatuboNAS Sigonella Public Affairs Staff

Need an appointment at the hospital? Call DSN

624-CARE (2273) or commercial 095-56-2273,

M-F: 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. For non-emergent

medical questions that arise over the weekend, holidays, or after office

hours, please call 335-578-8077 if you are normally seen

at the hospital or 335-578-8150

if you are normally seen at the Flight Line Clinic.

Navy Exchange (NEX) employee Filippo Nicotra stocks shelves in the mini-mart at Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella, March 19. The recent remodel of the NEX Mini-mart has allowed an increase in the amount and variety of food and drink items resulting in higher sales at the NAS 2 location. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Donavan K. Patubo/Released)

by lanCe CPl. luCaS HoPKinSU.S. SPMGTF-CR Africa Public Affairs


WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Navy leaders announced March 20 an update to the instruction governing the Post-9/11 GI Bill Educational Assistance Program which outlines specific steps for Sailors to follow to properly transfer their benefits to family members.

OPNAV Instruction 1780.4 was updated March 2 and consolidates policy detailed in NAVADMINs 187/09, 203/09, 354/09, and 235/11. A naval message is planned announcing the instruction update and

cancelling those NAVADMINs.Qualified active duty and Re-

serve Sailors may elect to trans-fer benefits to a spouse or chil-dren, with some or all benefits allocated to those named.

The instruction includes the Transfer of Benefits (TEB) steps in order to create a simple check-list that Sailors can follow to en-sure they successfully complete the process.

It outlines everything from verifying their family mem-bers are enrolled in the Defense Eligibility Enrollment System (DEERS) to eligibility require-ments, service obligations and what to do if a request is rejected.

Good Friday religious festival in Pietraperzia on Apr. 3U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa Fleet Master Chief Retires After 33 Years of ServiceMC2 CHriStoPHer HurD, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/U.S 6th Fleet Public Affairs

U.S. Navy HEADLINESPIETRAPERZIA, Sicily - Can you imagine your

entire hometown showing up at your son's Bar Mitzvah, taking Communion in the town square, setting up stations of the cross along Main Street or preparing a Ramadan feast in the public park? Probably not. In the United States, a country with a diverse religious background and a separation of Church and State, religious ceremonies are generally celebrated privately, within the walls of the homes or houses of worship. In Italy, in contrast, the long predominance of the Roman Catholic Church has allowed an intertwining of religious and civic life, with important religious celebrations spilling out into the streets and becoming public events in which everyone participates. As a result, over the centuries many Italian towns have developed distinctive ceremonies that are not just personal religious observances but expressions of community spirit and unity as well.

A good example is the observance of Good Friday in the town of Pietraperzia which this year falls on Friday, April 3.

Good Friday commemorates the day Jesus was crucified, suffered and died. It is an important and very solemn Christian holiday. Many Sicilian towns hold Good Friday observances, but the tradition of Pietraperzia, located in the province of Enna near Caltanisetta, is unique. The name of the observance is "Lu Signuri di li Fasci," which is Sicilian for "Our Lord of the Bands." The bands, or " fasci," are long strips of white linen cloth which are attached to the end of a tall, wooden mast; a crucifix is then mounted onto the mast. The entire assembled construction, called a " fercolo," is then raised upright in a dramatic moment and carried through the town at the head of a procession. Pietraperzia currently has about 7,300 residents. Its population has shrunk over the past century; many "pietrini," as the residents of Pietraperzia are called, emigrated in the early years of the 20th century. But each year some of those who have moved away return to Pietraperzia to participate in their hometown ceremony. And some of those who cannot be present will call a family member or friend and listen to the raising of the " fercolo" over the phone.

Pietraperzia has held a procession of the crucifix on Good Friday for well over 200 years.

After hours of busy preparation, the spectacular procession of the cross begins around 8 p.m., March 29 and lasts through late night crossing all the main road of the town’s historic center.

A fascinating century-old traditionLast year , the ceremony began as it has for

centuries, in the Church of the Carmine, home church of the Confraternity of Maria Santissima del Soccorso, the fraternal organization in charge of the event. Members of the confraternity were there dressed in their ceremonial regalia - a long-sleeved white robe, a light blue tunic or cape and a white headdress.

Member Andrea Rapisardi stated that his confraternity, one of three in Pietraperzia, has been in existence since 1306 and that there has been a Christian church on this site for even longer - the first was built around the year 1000. The current building retains the outer walls of the structure built in the 14th century. The rest of the church has been extensively rebuilt, but portions of the floor were recently replaced with plexiglas so that visitors can see some of the remaining crypt and flooring of the earlier church below. But on the afternoon of Good Friday the focus of attention was the church's crucifix with its life-sized figure of Christ carved in the 14th Century of sorbo wood. This crucifix would be carried out of the church and become the starring element in the evening procession through the town. But first, at 3 p.m., it was taken down to lie in state; throughout the afternoon the faithful came to participate in a unique tradition. Upon entering the church, participants made a small donation and were given a length of red ribbon.

These red ribbons are called "misureddi," meaning little measures. Each ribbon was placed upon the crucifix, stretched first across the shoulders of the Christ figure and then the length of the body, thus making the sign of the cross. The ribbon was then tied around the participant's arm. The "misureddi" represent the connection between the believer and the suffering Christ and are a symbol of divine protection.

Outside in the crowded piazza another important element of the " fercolo" was prepared. The Cross - actually a thick mast of cypress wood nine meters in length--was carried from the church at 6 p.m. and laid in the piazza. It was attached to the "vara"—a square base of oak with two long thick poles which will be used to carry the entire " fercolo." Then the members

of the confraternity began to direct the tying of the " fasci". These bands or strips of white linen, 33 meters in length and about a half a meter in width, were tied in the middle around a large iron ring at one end of the cypress mast. The linen bands are owned by individual families of Pietraperzia. As an act of devotion and gratitude the owners make a donation and register the band to be used for the ceremony. They do not just provide the linen bands but also actively participate in the procession. A family member is assigned to hold each end of the attached band. The holders will pull on the bands to raise the " fercolo;" throughout the procession they must keep the bands taut to help balance and steady the " fercolo."

One of those holding the rolled end of a band in the Piazza del Carmine was Marco Tragno. He explained that the approximately 300 linen bands owned by the families of the town exceeded the capacity of the " fercolo." And so the confraternity established a rotation system; the bands are numbered and registered and each year one third of the bands are excluded. This way each family participates for two years and then sits out one year. The family's name and the year of purchase are embroidered on the band in red. Tragno said that his family had purchased their linen band as an act of gratitude after he recovered from a serious illness as a child. Between Good Friday festivals they keep the band at home. The bands are handed down from father to son. One of the oldest bands still in use bears the date 1888. At 8 p.m., the third element of the " fercolo" appeared. A large globe representing the world and constructed of ribs of gold-painted wood and squares of colored glass was carried

NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY NAPLES, Italy (NNS) -- The U.S. Na-val Forces Europe-Africa (NAVEUR-NAVAF) fleet master chief retired March 20, 2015, during a ceremony at the base theater on Naval Support Activity Naples, Italy.

Family, friends and shipmates throughout the region gathered to honor and pay tribute to the 33-year naval career of Fleet Master Chief JoAnn Ortloff.

"I am proud to have been a part of this great Navy and shaping its future," said Ortloff during the ceremony. "Hopefully I'm leaving it better than when I came in. It was great when I came in, I just hope it's a little bit better now."

To help honor Ortloff, Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy Mike Stevens (MCPON) was on hand to provide his praise.

"U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Naval Forces Africa encompasses more than 14 million square miles, 105 countries and one billion people," said Stevens. "As fleet master chief, you made a resounding impact affecting key leadership decisions. Many Sailors and families have and will con-tinue to benefit from your innovation, passion and professional courage."

Until her retirement, Ortloff was the most senior active duty enlisted female Sailor in the Navy, beginning her naval career Nov. 10, 1982.

She began her career as an air-traffic controller and was selected to the command master chief program in 2003. Since then, she has served as command master chief aboard USS Milius (DDG 69), U.S. Naval Hos-pital Guam and U.S. 3rd Fleet.

In May 2012, Master Chief Ortloff was selected as the NAVEUR-NAVAF Fleet Master Chief, where she continued to help lead young Sail-ors and set them up for success.

"You embodied excellence and your leadership will continue to guide us for many years to come," said Adm. Mark Ferguson, commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa. "More importantly, the people you have touched, the people you have mentored for decades will look back on the fact that they know you, and will ask themselves 'what would Fleet Ortloff have done in this situation? How would she have handled it?' That is the legacy that you leave for all of us."

As Ortloff begins a new chapter of her life, the Navy will always have a special place in her heart.

"I will always stay involved wherever Sailors are, whatever they need," said Ortloff. "But I am going to put my anchor on my door; I am going to hang up my hat. It's time."

U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa, headquartered in Naples, Italy, oversees joint and naval operations, often in concert with allied, joint, and interagency partners, in order to advance U.S. national interests and security and stability in Europe and Africa.

For more news from Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/local/naveur/.

by rebeCCa taylor

The Good Friday procession held annually in the Pietraperzia to remember the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross. This must-see religious festival will be held on Friday, Apr. 3. (Photo by Mike Scott)

"GOOD FRIDAY" continued on Page 12

Post-9/11 GI Bill instruction updated, gives easy steps to transfer benefitsFrom Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs

For more information, visit https://www.navycollege.navy.mil/pdfs/OPNAVINST_1780.4_Post_9_11_GI_Bill.pdf


Photo credit to Sammie McManus

Sigonella Swordfish light up Eindhoven

The Sigonella Swordfish traveled to Eindhoven, Netherlands to compete in the European Forces Swim League (EFSL) Championships meet, Feb. 28 - March 1. Twenty-five Sigonella swordfish swimmers competed at the Pieter van de Hoogenband Aquatics Center.

The weekend kicked-off with the parade of champions, where 18 teams represented their country and region with costumes and a song. This year, the Swordfish wore black fedoras representing Sicily; however, their theme was based around our majestic lady, Mt. Etna. The team wore a volcano themed t-shirt designed by team captains and coaches. The team song was “Light ‘em Up” by Fall Out Boy. After the parade, the swimmers warmed up for upcoming events of 130 individual swims and seven relays that took place over a two-day event.

Overall, the Swordfish swam away with 46 medals and two new EFSL records. The Swordfish won seven gold medals, three silver medals, 11 bronze medals, five fourth places, 10 fifth places, and 10 sixth places. Gold medal winners included CJ Davis (with seven). Silver medalists were Camila Cardona, Alyah Perkins, and Tommy McManus. CJ Davis broke the 50 meter freestyle and 50 meter backstroke records for nine year old boys. Davis claimed top high points honors at the meet for the nine year old boys’ category. He was also awarded season’s overall pentathlon winner. To determine the pentathlon winners, all times are tallied from September through February in butterfly, backstroke, breaststroke, freestyle and individual medley.

The Swordfish closed their season last Friday with a banquet honoring all swimmers and their dedication to the sport. These athletes swam for nine months out of the year through many seasons and weather changes. Their drive and commitment is impeccable. In addition to all swimming honors, special coaches’ awards were also given out at the banquet in each age group:

Most Valuable Swimmer: Malia Puerto, CJ Davis, Alyah Perkins, Hannah Davis, Tommy McManusMost Improved: Ezra Andres, Caleb Cross, Ethan BowlingCoaches’ Award: Brendan Fahey, Gabrielle Andres,Mary Kate Jones

Congratulations Swordfish on a successful and memorable season! Keep Swimming Fast!

by SaraH buCKSigonella Swordfish Head Coach


Breakfast: $3.45 Lunch: $5.55 Dinner: $4.85As a reminder to everyone:

Reminder - there are no PTUs allowed at the Galley. Appropriate athletic gear is authorized at the discretion of the Galley staff. Please remember that for sanitation purposes and for the consideration of other customers, if you have been out for PT, been working out at the gym, or have just been engaged in any physical activity where you and or your clothing has become soiled or sweaty you will be asked to turn around.

Friday, March 27Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven fried Bacon, Turkey Sausage Lunch: Roast Turkey, Baked Fish w/Cherry TomatoesSpeed Line: PizzaDinner: Chicken Parmesan, Meat Loaf

Saturday, March 28Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven fried Bacon, Corned Beef HashBrunch: Eggs to Order, Oven fried Bacon, Corned Beef Hash, Baked Chicken Nuggets Dinner: Pizza and Wings Night

Sunday, March 29Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Turkey Sausage, Oven Fried BaconBrunch: Eggs to Order, Turkey Sausage, Oven Fried Bacon, Chicken Fried Steak and GravyDinner: Spaghetti with Meatballs, Baked Chicken Fillet

Monday, March 30Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Minced Beef, Oven Fried BaconLunch: Baked Herbed Chicken, Home Made LasagnaSpeed Line: Freshly Made PizzaDinner: Salisbury Steak, Chef Mario’s Homemade Lasagna

Tuesday, March 31Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Biscuits and Gravy, Oven fried BaconLunch: Chicken Adobo, Tempura FishSpeed Line: Meat Ball Subs with French Fries Dinner: Ham and Cheese sandwich, Roast Pork Tenderloin with Gravy

Wednesday, April 1Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Creamed Ground Beef on Toast, Oven Fried BaconLunch: Cajun Roast Beef, Lemon Baked FishSpeed Line: All American Grilled Burgers Dinner: Chef Russo’s Home Made Meat Loaf, Baked Chicken sandwich

Thursday, April 2Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Corned Beef Hash, Oven Fried BaconLunch: Beef Yakisoba, Turkey Pot Pie, Pasta Bar with choice of Freshly Made PastaDinner: Spaghetti with Meat sauce, Savory Baked Chicken

Friday, April 3Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven fried Bacon, Chicken Tocino with Garlic Rice Lunch: Sauerbraten, Barbecued ChickenSpeed Line: Chef Gigi’s Freshly Made PizzaDinner: Chili Macaroni, Grilled Cheese Sandwiches w/ Hot Tomato Soup

BREAKFASTMon-Fri

6:30-8 a.m.Weekend/Holiday

7 -9 a.m.

LUNCHMon-Fri

11 a.m. - 1 p.m.Weekend/Holiday

11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

DINNERMon-Fri

4:30 - 6 p.m.Weekend/Holiday

4:30 - 6 p.m.

DRIVE SAFELY SIGONELLA

Daylight Savings Time begins on Sunday, March 29, 2 a.m. Don't forget to set your clock one-hour forward before going to sleep this Saturday evening.

205 housing complex customers: The Base Communications Office will discontinue (Telephone/ADSL/IPTV) services to the 205 housing complex by March 31. The BCO is no longer permitted to be a fee for service entity and must be in compliance with audit readiness. You are welcome to coordinate your off base communication services with the NASSIG Base Housing department.

U.S. European Command Customs Public Affairs Office has released a notice informing residents who are thinking of sending Kinder Surprise chocolate eggs stateside this Easter should be aware of the U.S. Customs regulation banning these eggs from import to the U.S.

Scuba Certification: Learn to scuba dive and earn your Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) certification. The certification class includes knowledge development of the basic principles of scuba diving, confined water dives and open water dives to use your skills and explore! You will be required to provide your own transportation to the open water dive site.

Class Schedule/Info: April 1-3, 8-10, 15-17; (April 18-19 - Open Water Dives)Location: Midtown Classroom/Splashers Pool

Time: 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.; Ages: 15+Cost: $350 (Includes instruction, certification, books, and all dive gear)For more info, call ITT at 624-4777 to register or visit www.sigmwr.com.

NEX Offers Special Financing on Major Appliances: Now is a great time to replace that old refrigerator or washing machine. From April 15 - 28, customers can choose to either have no down payment, no interest and no payments for 12 months or receive five percent off the purchase price when using their MILITARY STAR® Card to purchase Whirlpool, Kenmore, Frigidaire, Maytag, LG and Samsung appliances priced at $799 or more. Or, for those customers who prefer, special orders are included in this offer.

All Hands News BulletinTo request publication of your message, please send it to [email protected]

NASSIG Worship ServicesROMAN CATHOLIC• Sunday - 9 a.m. Catholic Mass at NAS 1 Chapel• TuESday, WEdnESday & FRIday 11:30 a.m. - Catholic Mass at NAS 2 ChapelSacraments of Reconciliation / Penance precedeeach Mass• FRIday - 11:30 a.m. Catholic Mass at NAS 1 Chapel

LATTER-DAY SAINTS • Sunday - 1:30 p.m. at NAS 1 ChapelContact: [email protected] or 624-9049

JEWISH SHABBAT LAY SERVICE• FRIday - 5:30 p.m. at NAS 1 Chapel

PROTESTANT - NAS 1 CHAPEL• SaTuRday - 6:30 p.m. Contemporary Worship Services • Sunday - 11 a.m. Traditional Worship; 12 p.m. Sunday SchoolPROTESTANT / Non-Denominational - NAS 2 CHAPEL• Sunday - 6 p.m.

NIGHT STUDY• MOnday - AA Meetings - 5:30 p.m., seconddeck at NAS 1 Chapel; ThuRSday - 7 p.m. at NAS 2 Chapel• TuESday - Italian Class - 7 p.m. at Classroom at NAS 1 Chapel • TuESday - Glee Club - 12 p.m. at NAS 1 Chapel • TuESday - Awana Club - 4:45 p.m at NAS 1 Chapel

HOLY WEEK SCHEDULE 2015

JewishPassover Seder (April 3 & 4 at 6 p.m. NAS 2 Chapel) This is not limited to the Jewish community, but is open to all people of faith who share the common Passover tradition. If you plan to attend, please contact the Religious Minis-tries Department at 624-3975 for reservations purposes in preparing for the meal.

Roman Catholic Holy Thursday Mass (April 2 at 6 p.m. NAS 1 Chapel)Vigil in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel (April 2 at 7:30 p.m. NAS 1 Chapel)Good Friday Veneration of the Cross (April 3 at 6 p.m. NAS 1 Chapel)Easter Vigil (April 4 at 8:30 p.m. NAS 1 Chapel)Easter Sunday Mass (April 5 at 9 a.m. NAS 1 Chapel)

ProtestantGood Friday Service (April 3 at 11 a.m. US Naval Hospital Sigonella Chapel)Contemporary Easter Service (April 4 at 6:30 p.m. NAS 1 Chapel)Sunrise Service (April 5 at 6:30 a.m. outside Marinai Picnic Area) Traditional Easter Service (April 5 at 11 a.m. NAS 1 Chapel)Easter Service (April 5 at 6 p.m. NAS 2 Chapel)

Latter Day SaintsEaster Worship Service (April 5 at 1:30 p.m. NAS 1 Chapel)

Easter CantataEaster Concert (April 5 at 10:30 a.m. NAS 1 Chapel)

Ristorante Bel la EtnaRistorante Bel la EtnaRistorante Bel la Etna

Chapel Offices: NAS 1 095-56-3975, NAS2I 095-86-9049, DSN: 624-3975, Chaplain Duty: 335-831-4493 RP Duty: 335-786-1950 NAS Sigonella Religious Ministries Department Facebook page: www.facebook.com/Naval Air Station Sigonella Chapel


"GOOD FRIDAY" continued from Page 6

DIF

FICU

LT

gaMe Zone

MED

IUM

EA

SY

Find and circle all of the Stephen King Movies that are hidden in the grid.The remaining letters spell a secret message.

APT PUPILCARRIECAT'S EYECHILDREN OF THE CORNCHRISTINECREEPSHOW ICREEPSHOW IICUJODARK HALF DEAD ZONEDOLORES CLAIBORNEDREAMCATCHER

FIRESTARTERGRAVEYARD SHIFTGREEN MILEHEARTS IN ATLANTISLANGOLIERSMANGLER MAXIMUM OVERDRIVEMISERYNEEDFUL THINGSNIGHT FLIERPET SEMATARYQUICKSILVER

HIGHWAYROSE REDRUNNING MANSALEM'S LOT SHAWSHANK REDEMPTIONSHININGSILVER BULLETSLEEPWALKERSSTAND BY METHE STANDTHINNERTOMMYKNOCKERSTRUCKS

Stephen King Movies

out of the church. It was affixed to the end of the cypress mast, above the ring of white bands. Then there was an announcement asking for silence and a hush came over the crowd of bystanders.

The crucifix emerged from the church, passed from hand to hand by a line of confraternity members until it reached the " fercolo." The members cried out, "Pietà e misericordia Signuri!" which means, "Piety and mercy Lord!" The crucifix was placed at the top of the globe to symbolize Christ's reign over the world. A voice came over the loudspeaker again, reminding the crowd of the solemn meaning of the festival and requesting - in Italian, English and German-that there be no clapping when the " fercolo" was raised. As the tension mounted, the crowd was pushed back from the center of the piazza where the assembled " fercolo" lay waiting to be raised. As the band holders prepared for the lift, a confraternity member struck the oak base of the " fercolo" with a staff, making a sound like a drum roll. At this cue hundreds of bystanders raised their cameras and cell phones to capture the dramatic moment. And then, suddenly, the night sky above the piazza was dominated by a white mountain formed by the stretched bands radiating from the mast. This mountain was crowned with the globe and crucifix on its summit, 12 meters above the ground. As the procession began the " fercolo" became a moving work of art. The white bands hid the cypress beam from view and made the crucifix appear to float on them as it sailed majestically down the street. The cone shape formed by the bands expanded and contracted as the " fercolo" moved forward, changing shape to fit the confines of the streets. The fasci holders rolled and unrolled their fasci to maintain a constant tension as they changed their formation. Lights inside the multi-colored globe caused it to glow and cast an iridescent shimmer onto the snowy white of the bands below.

Unlike an American parade float which hides the machinery that propels it, the " fercolo's" human engine was an integral part of its performance. At its base, the two long carrier poles rested on the shoulders of dozens of porters lined up in close formation on both sides. Like those who hold the linen bands, the porters who carry the " fercolo" volunteer as an act of devotion. It required the carefully coordinated efforts of about 500 porters and fasci holders to raise and move the " fercolo." As they made their way forward the porters struggled to carry the nine tons of combined weight of the "fercolo;" their struggle represented a sharing in the suffering of Christ and echoed the suffering depicted on the cross above them.

It would have been easier to just display the " fercolo" in the piazza and have everyone come to view it there. As part of the preparation for the procession, the streets on the procession route had to be cleared of all obstacles. Electrical wires which were strung across streets had to be taken down to allow the " fercolo" to pass. But the parading of the " fercolo", its movement and its appearance throughout the town, was an essential part of its purpose. Catching sudden glimpses from afar of the glowing white "fercolo" as it appeared between the buildings of the dark town was a startling and surreal experience. At each main intersection, the "fercolo" stopped. This gave the porters a needed rest, but also gave the residents watching from their balconies a good look at the "fercolo." Even those unable to leave their homes were a part of the procession.

The " fercolo" of Our Lord of the Bands was followed by two others--"L'Urna de Cristo," a glass coffin containing a sculpture of the dead Christ, and "L'Addolorata", a statue of Our Lady of Sorrows. After its slow tour through the town, the procession returned to Piazza del Carmine about midnight where the " fercolo" was lowered and dismantled. The linen bands were taken home and the crucifix, globe, and mast were carried back into the Church of the Carmine until Good Friday next year.

This fascinating tradition will be renewed on Friday, April 3. For more information on this religious festival visit http://www.comune.pietraperzia.en.it/

U.S. Naval Hospital SigonellaYou're a winner when you make the

commitment to quit tobacco, and stay fit and strong, and you're a loser if you avoid gaining the weight that some smokers and chewers deal with when they decide to quit.

It's not magic. It takes a high level of commitment and stamina. The great news is that you already proved you have what it takes. It's what got you through boot camp, fitness tests, and military workouts. There is a Web site that is chock-full of military exercise regimens, diet and nutrition tips, and fitness pointers and blogs.

Using the Military.com Web site and other tools can help you from packing on the pounds while kicking the habit. Listening to our podcasts might also give you just the boost you need when you're starting an exercise and fitness program, or when your willpower hits a wall.

Since you don't want to sabotage your journey to a tobacco-free, fit, and healthier version of you, here are some tips and warnings for staying quit, avoiding sweets, and dealing with the cravings that may leave you feeling vulnerable:

- Remember withdrawal symptoms don't last long. You can conquer them!

- Symptoms are strongest the first week after you quit. The worst part is over after two weeks. As time passes, you'll feel better than when you smoked, dipped, or chewed. So be patient with yourself.

- Wait out the cravings. Deep breathing and physical exercise help you feel better right away.

- Remove yourself from tempting situations. Make a list of situations to avoid and have a plan ready when you can't. Eat regular meals. Feeling hungry is sometimes mistaken for the desire to smoke or chew.

- Reach for low-calorie sweet snacks. Keep these choices handy. Apples, sliced vegetables, sugar-free gums and candies, and even flavored toothpicks might help you get through the rough spots.

You can be mission ready and fit if you prepare yourself for the challenge. And, if you don't want to go it alone, contact your Health Promotion Department at 624-4710 to get started. When you're ready, we're here to help. Quit Tobacco — Make Everyone.

How can you be a winner and a loser at the same time?


As you separate from the military, you'll face many tough decisions, including where you and your family will live. You'll want to consider your family's wishes as well as career opportunities and cost of living. Do you want to live near a military installation or near your reserve unit? Many factors will go into your decision, and thinking care-fully about the options will help you make the best choice.

Searching for a jobFor you, as for many separating service

members, a new job may determine where you live after leaving the military. Searching for a job may begin months before you actu-ally separate from the military, but you may not find your dream job right away. Because you have as much as six months to a year to take advantage of your final relocation ben-efits, don't feel rushed into moving before you've found a job. Taking the following steps can help:

• Attend a Transition Assistance Pro-gram employment workshop. Offered by the installation transition office or, depend-ing on your service branch, by the Fam-ily Support Center, this workshop will help you find a job by providing information on job-search strategies, resume writing, inter-

viewing skills, job offers and salary negotia-tion. You can also check out the TurboTAP website for resources, need-to-know infor-mation and toolkits to help you with your new future.

• Research job markets. Read trade journals in your field and visit job search websites to help you find available positions in your area of expertise.

• Network. Talk with former service members or civilians in your line of work to get an idea of the job market. Military ser-vice organizations can also offer great net-working opportunities. For example, mili-tary organizations like the Military Officers Association of America offer job search re-sources and opportunities to connect with other former service members in your area.

Making the decisionNo decision is guaranteed, but careful

evaluation will help you choose the best op-tion for you and your family. Be sure to:

• Weigh your options. Write down the choices available, and weigh the pros and cons of each. This is especially important if your decision is being guided by emotions. Are you thinking of moving home because your parents want you to, even though the best job opportunities are in another state? Writing down the pros and cons will also help you prioritize the things that are most

important to you -- maybe moving back home is more important than a high-paying job.

• Prepare for mixed emotions. Even though you're excited about starting your new life outside the military, moving can be stressful for both you and your family. Be prepared for conflicting emotions as you say goodbye to friends and your military life.

• Visit the Transportation Manage-ment Office. As soon as you've made your decision, visit the Transition Management Office. Your installation office will schedule your final move, and the earlier you visit their office, the more likely you are to get the move dates you request.

Relocation assistanceYour relocation benefits include one fi-

nal move from your last duty station within the time and geographic limits listed below. If you live in installation housing, you may be allowed one move out of housing into the local community and another final move within these limits. Check with your instal-lation's TMO for details on benefits specific to your final move.

• Retirement. You may be moved any-where within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) or to your home of re-cord outside the United States within one

year of your retirement date. (This is called a home of selection.)

• Involuntary separation (honorable discharge). You may be moved anywhere within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) or to your home of record out-side the United States within one year of your separation date.

• Voluntary separation (honorable dis-charge). You may be moved to your home of record (or an equal or lesser distance) with-in 180 days of your separation date. If you choose a destination of greater distance, you will be obligated to pay the additional costs.

• General discharge (under honorable conditions). You may be moved to your home of record (or an equal or lesser dis-tance) within 180 days of your separation.

Homelessness Prevention ProgramsHomelessness can take many forms. If

you or a veteran you know are sleeping in a car, crashing on a friend's couch, staying at a family member's house, or facing eviction or fore-closure while transitioning out of military service, the VA can help. Make the call to 877-4AID-VET, or chat online to be connected to the homelessness prevention re-sources the VA offers. Learn about all the programs that can help you or a veteran you know overcome or prevent homelessness at the VA website.

For more information, please visit the Fleet & Family Support Center on NAS 1, bldg. 319 or call the FFSC at 624-4291.

WASHINGTON - The pro-posed defense budget is in line with fiscal year 2015 projections, halting the decline in defense spending and making available the resources needed to execute the nation's defense strategy, Defense Secretary Ash Carter told a House panel here today.

Carter and Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, testified this morn-ing before the House Armed Ser-vices Committee, whose members include 23 veterans.

The president is requesting a defense budget for fiscal year 2016 that is $36 billion above the caps, or sequester levels, of the Budget Control Act, Carter said. "And as the chairman noted," he told the panel, "strategy comes first and that's the appropriate way to think about the budget. But -- and I want to be clear about this -- under se-questration, which is set to return in 197 days, our nation would be less secure."

AUMF and the 2016 Budget Re-quest

The hearing focused on the au-thorization for the use of military force against the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant, or ISIL, and the fiscal 2016 budget request from the Defense Department.

On the AUMF, Carter said two things -- flexibility and wide-spread support -- are important for him as secretary of defense.

"One is that it gives us the flex-ibility to carry out our campaign," he added, "but the other is that it is passed up here on Capitol Hill in a way that says very clearly to our men and women who are conduct-ing the campaign against ISIL that the country is behind them."

On the AUMF provisions, the

secretary said the authorization doesn't try to say everything that is permitted. Instead, it wisely gives DoD leaders the flexibility to con-duct the campaign against ISIL the way that defeating that enemy re-quires.

Changing the Shape of the Mili-tary

The authorization's language does rule out an Iraq- or Afghan-istan-type long period of offen-sive combat operations, and that helps military leaders practically and geographically, Carter added, "because we don't foresee having to conduct another campaign like Iraq or Afghanistan."

On sequestration, Carter said that if the department is confront-ed with sequestration-level budg-ets and continued obstacles to re-form, it can't simply keep making incremental cuts.

"We would have to change the shape, and not just the size, of our military, significantly impacting parts of our defense strategy," he added.

On the TableCarter told the panel that as

secretary, "I will not send troops into a fight with outdated equip-ment, inadequate readiness or in-effective doctrine.

But everything else is on the ta-ble -- including parts of our budget that have long been considered in-violate."

By that, he said in written tes-timony, he means the department could be forced to consider pay cuts, not just cuts in the growth of compensation.

"We could be forced to consider all means of shedding excess infra-structure, not just working within the congressional [Base Realign-ment and Closure] process. We could be forced to look at signifi-

cant force structure cuts, not just trimming around the edges," the secretary explained.

And the department could be forced to ask the military services to do and be prepared to do signifi-cantly less than what traditionally has been expected and required of them, he said.

"This may lead to decisions that no Americans, including members of Congress, want us to make," Carter added.

Closing the Technology Gap"Other nations, among them

Russia, China, Iran and North Ko-rea, have been pursuing long-term, comprehensive military mod-ernization programs to close the technology gap that has long ex-isted between them and the United States," the secretary noted.

Such modernization programs are developing and fielding ad-vanced aircraft, submarines and longer-range and more accurate ballistic and cruise missiles, he said, and they're developing new and advanced anti-ship and anti-air missiles, and new counterspace, cyber, electronic warfare, under-sea, and air attack capabilities.

"One of the reasons we are asking for more money this year than last year is to reverse recent underinvestment in new weapons systems by making targeted in-vestments to help us stay ahead of emerging threats," he said.

The investments include "add-ing substantial funding for space control and launch capabilities, missile defense, cyber, and ad-vanced sensors, communications and munitions, all of which are critical for power projection in

contested environments," the sec-retary said.

Budget in PerspectiveCarter encouraged the panel

to keep the department's budget in perspective as they and their col-leagues in Congress evaluate the president's budget submission.

In the years since the fiscal 2012 budget request, the bench-mark for cuts prescribed under the 2011 Budget Control Act, he said, DoD's 10-year budget

projections have absorbed more than $750 billion in cuts, or more than three-quarters of the trillion-dollar cuts that would be required if sequestration is allowed to run its course.

"While some claim this is our biggest budget ever," the secretary added, "the fact is that as a share of total federal spending, DoD's

fiscal year 2016 budget is at a near-historic low, representing about 14 percent of total federal discretion-ary and nondiscretionary outlays."

Complicated WorldThe department's total budget

remains more than $100 billion below what it was at the height of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, he said.

"I think we can all agree that the world in 2014 was even more complicated than we could have foreseen," Carter added.

"Given today's security envi-ronment, which has over 200,000 American service members sta-tioned in over 130 countries con-ducting nearly 60 named op-erations," he told the panel, "our proposed increase in defense spending over last year's budget is a responsible, prudent approach."

Defense Secretary Ash Carter testifies before the House Armed Services Committee in Washington, D.C., March 18. Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, joined Carter to testify. (DoD screen shot)

Carter: Sequestration will make the U.S. less secure Deciding where to live when you leave the militaryFleet & FaMily SuPPort Center

Intl & foster care adoptions,home studies, post adoption services.

Hague accredited agency. www.adopt-abroad.com - US 1-888-687-3644.

by CHeryl PellerinDoD News, Defense Media Activity

tHe SignaturePage 16 March 27, 2015

the signature, march 27, 2015

Documents