Ouch! PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 14, 2010) Ensign Jessica Alabata gets her eyes and face washed after she was sprayed with oleoresin capsicum (OC) during qualifications aboard the amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18). New Orleans is participating in Southern Partnership Station 2010. Southern Partnership Station 2010 is a deployment of various specialty platforms to the U.S. Southern Command area of responsibility. U.S. Navy photo by MC1 Brien Aho

Surface Line Week San Diego SAN DIEGO (Aug. 18, 2010) Seaman Semanya Lowe, assigned to the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4) tries to intercept a pass during a flag football game versus the amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) as part of Surface Line Week. Surface Line Week, is a 10-day contest sponsored by Commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet, features a series of activities dedicated to friendly competition in a variety of seamanship and sporting events.(U.S. Navy photo by MC2 John J. Siller

Gates asks troops, employees to submit ideas to increase efficiency, savings
8/19/2010
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- In a video message released Aug. 12, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates announced the Defense INVEST Program, launched to encourage service members and department employees to submit their ideas on ways to cut overhead costs and promote efficiency.
During an Aug. 9 briefing, Gates said he wants military personnel and civilians to think outside the box. He wants them to submit their ideas for saving resources, reducing the layers of the organizations and eliminating duplication and overhead.
"Within the department, we are launching an online contest for the purpose of soliciting and rewarding creative ideas to save money and use resources more effectively," he said. "I would encourage all DoD employees to visit 'www.defense.gov' on the Web to learn more."

Continuation Board keeps best Sailors in the fleet
8/21/2010
by MC1 (AW) LaTunya Howard, Navy Personnel Command Public Affairs
MILLINGTON, Tenn. (NNS) -- The Navy announced the fiscal year 2011 (FY-11) performance-based board for continuation, which will convene Sept. 20 to review senior enlisted (Active/Reserve) personnel with more than 19 years of service.
The focus is performance within the last five years or since advancement to current grade (E-7 through E-9), whichever is later. According to NAVADMIN 276/10, an amplified update to NAVADMIN 180/10, documented misconduct, sub-standard or marginal performance will be the primary reason board-eligible Sailors will not be continued in the Navy past the 20-year mark. Among the specific performance indicators the board will consider are:
* Documented misconduct involving either Uniform Code of Military Justice (non-judicial punishment) or civilian offenses.
* Moral or professional dereliction such as relief for cause or detachment for cause.
* Continuity gaps in evaluation/fitness report of greater than 90 days.
* The Sailor's evaluation/fitness report during the period reviewed includes marks showing sub-standard or marginal performance of duty.
The board will consider these factors and others within the entire record and use its judgment to select Sailors for continuation whose service is in the best interest of the Navy. NAVADMIN 276/10 contains the complete list of board consideration factors.
"This is a performance-based board, and I have extreme confidence that the senior enlisted leadership who sit the board are focused on fairness and proper adherence to standards," said Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON)(SS/SW) Rick D. West. "This is a move in the right direction, so we are retaining the best people possible for our Navy."
Commands may re-verify their FY-11 enlisted continuation board eligibility listings weekly until Sept. 1.
For Sailors being reviewed, the board correspondence submission deadline has been extended to Sept. 1. Board-eligible Sailors must submit any correspondence to the board with a postmark by this date.
West said this is the second year of the Senior Enlisted Continuation Board, but the first year Reserve chiefs will be looked at.
"The continuation board has expanded from last year," West said. "More people are being looked at across the Navy's Total Force including reserves and some communities that were exempt last year."

Navy Working Uniform Type II/III website launched
8/18/2010
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) launched a Web site for the Navy Working Uniform (NWU) Type II/III Aug. 9.
The website is intended to provide detailed information about the new uniforms, including development history, conformance testing data, frequently asked questions and answers, news and updates, photographs, and contact information.
"We want to provide the best Web site possible to inform our expeditionary Sailors about the new uniforms," said Andy Hu, NAVFAC NWU Type II/III program manager.
NAVFAC also has a Facebook page so the program manager can receive additional feedback, and visitors are encouraged to join or start a dialogue about the NWU Type II/III.
These new tactical uniforms are undergoing conformance testing this summer and are scheduled to be issued to the expeditionary Navy in spring 2011.
Visit the NWU Type II/III website at http://www.navfac.navy.mil/nwu, and the Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/pages/NWU-Type-II-II/147583515252522?v=wall.

Office of Naval Research hosts Program 38 Conference in San Diego
8/17/2010
by MCSN Shawnte Bryan, Navy Public Affairs Support Element West
SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- The Office of Naval Research (ONR) hosted its Navy Reserve Science and Technology (Program 38) Summer Leadership Conference Aug. 13-15 at the Admiral Kidd Catering and Conference Center aboard the Naval Base Point Loma Mine and Anti-Submarine Warfare Annex.
The event is held twice a year on each coast for active duty and Reserve service members to share and update various science and technology programs.
This year, the three-day conference was attended by more than 100 personnel and featured several briefings from individuals such as Chief of Naval Research Rear Adm. Nevin Carr, Jr., and Air Force Brig. Gen. Peter Sefcik Jr., mobilization assistant to the Commander, Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL). Sefcik is the Air Force's first guest speaker at a Program 38 Conference.
According to Air Force Lt. Col. Eric Butter, AFRL command representative to ONR, these conferences allow the Air Force and Navy to exchange information and open opportunities for collaborations, especially in a time of budget constraints.
One brief examined recent testing by ONR to determine whether seals can track submerged wakes using their whiskers. Office of Naval Research officials said they hope to use technology based on the seals' behaviors to similarly trade wakes.
"The cool thing is that we are taking something that an animal does in real life and adapting it for uses in the Navy," said Cmdr. Chris Gregg, a member of ONR.
Since the program is in its first of three years of development, ONR is helping with basic engineering, scientific tasking, computer programming, sensor design, and modeling and testing of devices.
Gregg said the long-term goal is to help the Navy track where a boat, submarine, ship, swimmer or an unmanned vehicle has been.
Other programs included changing the battery system in a Class II unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) to a rechargeable and reusable lightweight fuel-cell battery hybrid with external fuel canisters to potentially double the payload runtime.
Lt. Teng Ooi, project leader of Lightweight Fuel Cells for UAV Applications, said the fuel cells will serve as a tool for the Navy to build its fleet for the future and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
The annual conferences serve to better uphold the mission of Program 38, which is to provide and train a uniquely qualified and mobilization-ready cadre of reserve personnel with advanced scientific and technical skills and experience in fleet operations and technical program management.

Navy iTunes app released for iPhone
8/12/2010
by MC2 (SCW) Michael B. Lavender
MILLINGTON, Tenn. (NNS) -- The Navy released the "America's Navy" app for the iPhone and iPod Touch the week of Aug. 12.
The app is available to download for free through the iTunes App Store or the Navy's recruiting website, Navy.com.
"With the new generation of youth and advancements in social media, we believe that the application will be of great use for our recruiting efforts," said Lt. Cmdr. Garth Gimmestad, Navy Recruiting Command's (NRC) director of Marketing Plans Division. "This application will allow us to transmit data to a customer who desires information immediately. With the new generation that wants instant gratification for information, we'll now be able to cater to them through this technology medium."
The application will bring a host of information about the Navy, including job descriptions, career information, videos, photos and the latest news from Navy.mil.
"This is meant to provide Navy's multiple and varied audiences the opportunity to learn more about, and engage with the U.S. Navy in an informative and entertaining, not to mention convenient, manner," said Gimmestad. "Not only can someone look up information about the Navy, but they can even locate a recruiter in their area as well."
"NRC, along with our independent advertising agency, Campbell E-Wald, developed and launched the application through a variety of social media sites, including Facebook, Navy.com, the 'Navy for Moms' website and Twitter," explained Gimmestad. "We'll be able to enhance our capabilities to effectively communicate with a technologically savvy population."
NRC consists of a command headquarters, two Navy recruiting regions and 26 Navy recruiting districts, which serve hundreds of recruiting stations across the country. NRC's mission is to recruit the best men and women for America's Navy to accomplish today's missions and meet tomorrow's challenges.

H&R Block offers free tax prep course to military spouses
8/12/2010
by Bruce Moody
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- H&R Block is offering a free income tax course for spouses of uniformed service members and wounded warriors.
Military spouses of active, retired or Reserve military service members and wounded warriors are eligible.
"A tax preparation career is ideal for spouses who move every few years or stay at home with children," said Panshella Cole, Family Employment Readiness Program (FERP) manager. "Although employment is not guaranteed, the course offers valuable training."
No experience in tax preparation is necessary to enroll. Topics covered include tax theory, the latest tax laws and easy step-by-step skills for preparing tax returns.
The 11-week course is offered at flexible times and convenient locations. Spouses who move while enrolled in the course may continue their training with another of the more than 11,000 H&R Block offices worldwide.
The course is also offered in Spanish at several locations.
"The first step is to contact your nearest Fleet and Family Support Center (FFSC)," Cole said. "The FFSC will verify your eligibility with your military ID. If you can't get to a center, call the one nearest you, and they'll verify you over the phone."
To locate an FFSC, visit http://www.ffsp.navy.mil and select "Find your local Fleet and Family Support Center."
Once eligibility is verified, a confirmation number will be sent. To register with H&R Block call 800-472-5625 (1-800-HRBLOCK) or visit http://www.hrblock.com/class.
The offer of free courses is the result of an official partnership between the Department of Defense and the world's largest tax preparation business.

Elimination of field service record approaches
8/12/2010
by MC1 (AW)LaTunya Howard
MILLINGTON, Tenn. (NNS) -- Navy Personnel Command (NPC) is reminding Sailors that paper enlisted field service records (FSR) will closeout Sept. 30.
Service record information will be generated and maintained electronically through a secure Internet connection to the Navy Standard Integrated Personnel System (NSIPS) Electronic Service Record (ESR).
Chief of Naval Personnel announced in 2009 the requirement for all active-duty and Reserve personnel to establish and maintain a self-service ESR account. These accounts allow Sailors to review all personnel, training, and awards data. Sailors also have limited self-service update capability within their ESR.
"Sailors should maintain a hard copy of all documents used to update their ESR or any other record such as reenlistment contracts, award certificates, designation letters, etc.," said B. J. Price, Records Management Policy Branch, NPC. "The Sailor's ESR cannot be updated without appropriate source documentation."
As the Navy moves forward with plans to eliminate the enlisted FSR, nearly 60,000 Sailors still need to establish a self-service ESR account that will allow them anytime access to their records.
Self-service accounts can be created at https://nsips.nmci.navy.mil or on the Navy Standard Integrated Personnel System (NSIPS)/ESR server on board ships.
Commanding officers, executive officers and command master chiefs can obtain command-level "view only" access by completing the NSIPS/ESR system access authorization request, or SAAR, and forward it to NPC's Record/Data Maintenance Quality Division. The yare available at www.bupers.navy.mil/ AboutUs /NPC/Information+ Management. This access provides the user "view only" capability for all ESR accounts within their unit identification codes.
All commands responsible for service record entries are required to initiate updates in NSIPS/ESR. Sailors are ultimately responsible for the accuracy of their ESR and must contact the servicing personnel office if any information is incorrect.
The Navy began eliminating enlisted FSRs in January 2010. Officer service records were eliminated in 2000. Personnel Support Detachment Memphis began closing out records for Sailors at Navy Personnel Command (NPC) last year as part of a successful field test.
For more information on the elimination of FSRs read NAVADMIN 040/10 or visit https://nsips.nmci.navy.mil or call NPC Customer Service Center at 1-866-U-ASK-NPC.

MOMAU 1, 15 consolidate into Navy Munitions Command
8/18/2010
by MC2 Eva-Marie Ramsaran, Navy Public Affairs Support Element West
SEAL BEACH, Calif. (NNS) -- Mobile Mine Assembly Units (MOMAU) 1 and 15, the last two mobile mine units in the Navy, disestablished Aug. 17 and consolidated into a single ordnance support capability at Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach, Calif.
Both units merged into the Navy Munitions Command, helping to streamline the command's mission of ordnance management for shore duty stations worldwide by operating explosives and ordnance handling and shipping.
"Today marks the end of an era," said Capt. Terry Auberry, commanding officer of Navy Munitions Command CONUS West Division. "These are the last of the mine assembly units disestablishing in the Navy."
According to Auberry, the command is looking for efficiencies to improve the overall performance, reduce costs and improve service.
"It makes sense to combine commands that are so similar," said Lt. Cmdr. Drew Martinez, commanding officer of MOMAU 1 and MOMAU 15. "All three of the commands here perform similar functions with ordnance handling, receiving and shipping; merging does away with a lot of redundancy."
The decision to merge the units has been in the works for nearly a year. Navy Munitions Command will retain all current capabilities with a stronger organization and provide greater opportunities for the minemen.
"I think it's an opportunity for them to learn more about the ordnance community other than just mines," said Jack Harris, director of Navy Munitions Command CONUS West Division, Unit Seal Beach. "We support all areas of the ordnance community for the Navy and Marine Corps. We see this as a way to give the minemen an opportunity to increase their ordnance skills."
"This is a great organization and we have taken the first step to improve on it," said Martinez.

NHCP participates in mass casualty exercise
8/17/2010
by MC1 (SW) Michael R. McCormick, Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton Public Affairs
CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. (NNS) -- Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton (NHCP) participated in the Vector West 10 base-wide emergency management exercise Aug. 11-12.
The exercise tested the hospital's command center as well as assessed its ability to perform secondary decontamination and establish security entry control points to the hospital.
The scenario for this training was related to a terrorist threat and an incident at the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station located near the base.
When the hospital received information about the crisis, it set up the Decontamination Incident Response Team to decontaminate and triage patients.
"Once the patients arrive, they go through a scanner to see if they have been contaminated," said Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Alex Isenhour, Decontamination Incident Response Team leading petty officer. "If they have, we determine if they are ambulatory or non-ambulatory, we're equipped to treat both.
"If they're non-ambulatory they are put on a stretcher, we remove their clothing and scrub them down. They are then scanned again for contamination. If the patient is decontaminated, he is then sent to the triage tent to determine their treatment priority based on the severity of their condition."
The hospital also activated its auxiliary security force to ensure contaminated or unauthorized personnel did not enter the hospital and spread contamination.
All activities of the exercise were monitored, coordinated and supervised by the Hospital Command Center.
"Exercising our mass casualty procedures can never be practiced enough," said Capt. Jeff Plummer, NHCP executive officer and Vector West 10 hospital incident commander. "The naval hospital is ready for when a real event occurs and Vector West (10) helped make us better."

Naval Academy college ranking announced
8/18/2010
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (NNS) -- The U.S. Naval Academy has been ranked among the top schools in the country by the U.S. News & World Report's 2011 edition of "America's Best Colleges."
The Naval Academy was ranked 16th overall for "Best Liberal Arts Colleges" and ranked fifth for "Best Undergraduate Engineering" programs.
The academy was also ranked fifth for "Best Aerospace/Aeronautical/Astronautical Engineering" program and fifth for "Best Electrical/Electronic/Communications" program.
"The Naval Academy is pleased that our educational program continues to be recognized among the top colleges in the country," said Dr. Andrew Phillips, Naval Academy academic dean and provost. "While remaining focused on developing our students morally, mentally and physically to become ethical leaders of Sailors and Marines, our world-class faculty and exceptional students work hard to balance the highly technical demands of a rigorous engineering education with the critical thinking, communication skills and global awareness associated with a fine liberal arts education."
Additionally, the academy was ranked first by high school guidance counselors in the report.
"It is a privilege for the U.S. Naval Academy to receive such high recognition from those who are so influential in advising young men and women. We think this is reflective of the great opportunity that the Naval Academy affords our nation's most talented and well rounded young Americans," said Dean of Admissions Bruce Latta.
U.S. News & World Report's 2011 edition of college rankings will be published in the September 2011 issue.

Special Duty Assignment Pay deadlines approach
8/9/2010
MILLINGTON, Tenn. (NNS) -- Approximately 8,000 Sailors were impacted by revisions to the Special Duty Assignment Pay (SDAP) and the deadline for certification is Aug. 31.
While the revisions adjust SDAP levels for active and Reserve component full-time support (FTS) Sailors, the majority of SDAP pay remains unchanged from 2009.
"This process is critical to ensure that the Navy is accurately compensating Sailors for serving in uniquely challenging assignments," said Operations Specialist 1st Class (SW) Ace Sutton, Navy Personnel Command (NPC) Career Progression SDAP program manager. "Out of 133 line items, one single-level line item was deleted, one single line item was reduced. Twelve single line items were increased and 199 remain unchanged."
According to NAVADMIN 234/10, commanding officers are required to annually review and certify each Sailor's SDAP entitlement and that review is due by Aug. 31.
"Commands and Personnel Support Detachments are responsible for verifying each member is still eligible to receive SDAP and that each member is receiving the correct level," Sutton said. "Once the command has verified that everything is correct, they must submit their verification, signed by the commanding officer or officer-in-charge only to NPC's Active Enlisted Advancement/Conversions/Incentive Section (PERS-811). Failure to submit the annual recertification on time will result in the command having their members' SDAP shut off."
More than 26,000 Sailors receive SDAP each month. Those whose entitlements will be eliminated will receive half of their previous SDAP entitlement for 12 months, or until the Sailor completes their current tour, whichever comes first.
For more information on SDAP, visit www.npc.navy.mil, click on "Messages" and read NAVADMINs 230/10 and 234/10.

Rainbow sideboys PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 10, 2010) Vice Adm. Richard W. Hunt, commander of U.S. 3rd Fleet, crosses the rainbow sideboys during an arrival aboard the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Hunt is visiting the Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group to check on progress during the strike group's composite training unit exercise (COMPTUEX). U.S. Navy photo by MC3 Lex T. Wenberg

USS Green Bay training with CG PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 10, 2010) Landing signal enlisted Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 3rd Class Troy Palomino directs an H-65 "Dolphin" short-range recovery helicopter assigned to Group/Air Station Port Angeles, Wash. onto the flight deck of the amphibious transport dock ship USS Green Bay (LPD 20). Green Bay is assisting the Coast Guard with training exercises in the western Pacific Ocean. U.S. Navy photo by MC1 Larry S. Carlson

Blue Angels return to MCAS Miramar
MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR, Calif., (August 11, 2010) – It’s confirmed! The U.S. Navy’s Blue Angels Flight Demonstration Squadron will be returning to San Diego Oct. 1, 2 and 3. As in years past, “The Blues” will have a supporting cast of performers guaranteed to thrill the whole family!
The U.S. Navy’s Blue Angels are among the most popular aviation acts in the world, entertaining more than 8 million people last air show season. Since they were formed in 1946, they have performed for more than 463 million people.
The F/A-18 Hornets used by the Blue Angels are 56 feet long, more than 40 feet from wingtip to wingtip, and weigh 56,000 pounds. at take-off. A Hornet can hit speeds of 1,200 miles per hour (Mach 1.7+). Blue Angels pilots hold their Hornets in formations just inches apart while performing complex maneuvers.
Their support aircraft, a U.S. Marine Corps C-130, begins each demonstration by exhibiting its maximum performance capabilities during a ten-minute performance. Known as “Fat Albert,” it carries 25,000 pounds of cargo, 45,000 pounds of fuel and transports the squadron’s support and maintenance crew to each show site.
The Blue Angels’ mission is to enhance Navy and Marine Corps recruiting and to represent the Naval Service to the United States civilian community, its elected leadership and foreign nations. The Blue Angels serve as positive role models and goodwill ambassadors for the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps.

Surface Line Week 2010 kicks off in San Diego
8/12/2010
by Lt.j.g. Allison Derr,
Naval Surface Force U.S. Pacific Fleet Public Affairs
SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- San Diego's 29th annual Surface Line Week began Aug. 12 with the commencement of the sailing competition in Fiddlers Cove.
Surface Line Week (SLW), a 10-day contest sponsored by Commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet (CNSP), will run through Aug 20. This marquee event features a series of activities dedicated to friendly competition in a variety of seamanship and sporting events.
"Surface Line Week is a great way to promote waterfront camaraderie, pride, and professionalism between Surface Warriors serving in both sea and shore commands," said Vice Adm. D.C. Curtis, commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet. "This is also a great chance to take a break from your everyday hard work and have some fun."
This year, more than 3,000 participants from 35 commands will compete in 38 events, including perennial favorites such as basketball, softball and golf, along with damage control, ship handling and marksmanship. New competitions include swimming; visual communications; visit, board, search, and seizure; call of duty; horseshoes; and a photo competition. Last year CNSP took home the overall "small command" title, while Afloat Training Group San Diego claimed the combined medium/large command category.
"I am excited to participate in the sailing competition for the second year in a row," said Cmdr. Yvette Davids, who competed in the kick-off competition for CNSP. "I am a big believer in excellence through competition and am proud to represent SURFPAC. Sailing is the perfect professional competition to showcase command pride, teamwork in action, while relying on our mariner skills and tactics. This is a great way to kick off Surface Line Week."
All across the waterfront, commands are gearing up for the events to come.
"The weeklong tournament is not just about supporting your own shipmates, but supporting shipmates across the waterfront," said Ensign Jennifer Malherek, Surface Line Week coordinator for USS Howard (DDG 83). "We are excited to have the opportunity to participate in the events and look forward to engaging in some friendly competition with neighboring commands."
For more information from Commander, Naval Surface Force, Pacific Fleet, visit www.surfaceforces.surfor.navy.mil or follow the Surface Force at www.facebook.com/surfacewarriors.

SECNAV, CNO announce flag officer assignment
8/12/10
Rear Adm. (lower half) John C. Sadler will be assigned as commander, Naval Air Forces Reserve/deputy commander, Naval Air Forces/deputy commander, Naval Air Forces, U.S. Pacific Fleet, San Diego, Calif. Sadler is currently serving as deputy reserve commander, Navy Region Southeast, Jacksonville, Fla.

NSWC Port Hueneme establishes Wounded Warrior partnership
8/12/2010
FORT BLISS, Texas (NNS) -- Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) Port Hueneme partnered with the Army's Warrior Transition Battalion Center at Fort Bliss, Texas, to support the employment needs of severely injured service members Aug. 6.
The partnership builds on a Jan. 13 memorandum of agreement between Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) and the U.S. Army's Warrior Transition Command to increase opportunities for meaningful internships and/or employment with the Navy's largest system command. NSWC Port Hueneme is a NAVSEA field activity.
"We are focused on hiring and providing employment opportunities for injured service members returning to civilian life," said Capt. Kimo Zaiger, NSWC Port Hueneme chief staff officer.
NSWC Port Hueneme representatives met with more than 60 injured Army service members at Ft. Bliss, the western regional location for injured service members returning from deployment in Iraq and Afghanistan. The personnel are being medically reviewed for continued military service or separation. The wounded warriors were briefed on the command's mission, given resume preparation training, and had the opportunity to discuss potential civilian employment options with command recruiters.
NSWC Port Hueneme integrates, tests, evaluates and provides life-cycle engineering and logistics for today's and tomorrow's naval surface warfare systems.

Seamless integration prepares Lincoln and Nimitz Carrier Strike Groups for dual operations
8/11/2010
by Lt. Greg D. Raelson
ABOARD USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) and USS Nimitz (CVN 68) Carrier Strike Groups participated in dual aircraft carrier and strike group operations off the coast of Southern California Aug. 7-11.
"The opportunity to conduct large scale, multi-unit training such as this shows the Navy's inherent flexibility and scalability," said Rear Adm. Mark Guadagnini, commander of Lincoln Carrier Strike Group. "The presence of two aircraft carriers sends the message that the United States values peace and stability in every region around the world."
The two carriers joined to conduct numerous exercises. During a large force strike exercise Aug. 7, Carrier Air Wing 2 and Carrier Air Wing 11 aviators conducted bombing on various ranges in California and Nevada where all six critical targets were destroyed. Other missions will focus on the integration of aircraft, ships, squadrons and staffs to include mine exercises, air defense, surface warfare and theater anti-submarine warfare designed to both protect ships against simulated attacks and to project power in multiple dimensions.
Lincoln and Nimitz strike groups bring to bear more than 140 combat aircraft, hundreds of surface-to-air and land-attack missiles, and surveillance range of thousands of miles when working together.
The seamless integration of the two carrier strike groups builds a common tactical picture by linking dozens of ships and aircraft, including the shore-based P-3C Orion and shore facilities in California.
"Integrating both strike groups gives the air wings and ships a more complex set of training objectives to hone their skills and to prepare them to combat threats together anywhere in the world," said Rear Adm. Robert Girrier, commander of Nimitz Carrier Strike Group. "These are core capabilities intrinsic to our Cooperative Strategy for 21st Century Seapower."
"The exercises not only prepare Lincoln for possible future missions on her upcoming deployment, but also increase the interoperability between both carrier strike groups and consequently enhance our operational readiness," said Guadagnini.
The Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group is commanded by Rear Adm. Mark Guadagnini and consists of flagship USS Abraham Lincoln, embarked CVW-2, embarked Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 9 and the guided-missile cruiser USS Cape St. George (CG 71).
Nimitz Carrier Strike Group is commanded by Rear Adm. Robert Girrier and consists of flagship USS Nimitz, embarked CVW-11 and embarked DESRON 23.

Navy emphasizes zero tolerance on drug use
8/10/2010
by MC3 Kari R. Rodriguez,
Navy Region Southwest Public Affairs
SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Due to increased use in designer drugs, the Navy has added new guidelines to its existing drug policy that emphasizes zero tolerance of drug use by its Sailors.
NAVADMIN 108/10 states that Navy personnel determined to be unlawfully using, possessing, promoting, manufacturing, or distributing drugs and/or drug abuse paraphernalia shall be disciplined, as appropriate, and processed for administrative separation.
"We have the drug policy there to ensure the safety of Sailors and to make sure we can get our mission completed," said Chief Culinary Specialist (SW/AW) Jason Simmons, Navy Region Southwest regional drug and alcohol program advisor. "A person who is using drugs won't be able to perform a job 100 percent, and people can get hurt that way. That is kind of scary to think about when you're out at sea."
Designer drugs were created to get around existing drug laws and often can be deadlier. The new guidelines in the policy, which were released in March, now include products that contain cannabinoid synthetic compounds, such as spice, blaze and spark.
"We have had issues with designer drugs and what people don't understand is that they don't know what is being put into these drugs and the effects can be different on each person. Because of the different side effects the results can sometimes turn deadly," Simmons said.
According to NAVADMIN 108/10, more than 1,300 Sailors were separated from the Navy during Fiscal Year (FY) 2009, and 303 more were separated during the first quarter of FY 2010.
"The number of people being separated due to drug use has gone down over the last five years due to the increased number of random drug tests," Simmons said. "We have also implemented lots of programs to help Sailors make the right choices."
Simmons added that Sailors tend to make bad decisions due to not being able to handle their personnel issues.
"A lot of these Sailors who choose to use drugs are very young, and it's the first time away from their families. They're not quite sure how to handle the stress of their jobs," Simmons said. "I believe that commands should get involved with their Sailors so they know they have someone to talk to and they know where to turn for help."
For more information, visit www.npc.navy.mil to view the NAVADMIN.

USS Carl Vinson conducts ops PACIFIC OCEAN (July 23, 2010) An Evolved Sea Sparrow missile is launched from the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70). Carl Vinson is currently underway conducting operations off the coast of Southern California. U.S. Navy photo by MC2 Adrian White

Sub USS Missouri commissioned GROTON, Conn. (July 31, 2010) The crew of the Virginia-class attack submarine USS Missouri (SSN 780) mans the rails and bring the ship to life as the periscopes and antennas are raised following its commissioning at Naval Submarine Base New London. Becky Gates, wife of U.S. Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates, serves as the submarine's sponsor. U.S. Navy photo by MC1 Steven Myers

Mind training program helps service members focus
8/4/2010
by Lance Cpl. John Robbart III
Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. — Military training is known for being physically and mentally demanding. And although physical exercise is an everyday part of the armed forces lifestyle, specifically training the mind is not as routine.
Warrior Mind Training is a program sponsored by Camp Pendleton’s Marine Corps Community Services’ Semper Fit division that focuses on strengthening the mind.
According to the WMT website, the program is a self-funded, volunteer organization that teaches mind training tools and techniques that have been used by the samurai and other elite warriors for thousands of years.
“Similar to the way you would train your body at the gym, we work to help you focus better mentally,” said Monica T. Stygar, instructor, Warrior Mind Training.
The course has been available on base for the past three years, helping troops clear their minds and stay focused by using deep relaxation techniques, music, and group discussions. The instructor also provides participants with coping skills they can practice on their own.
“Specifically training the mind to focus is a new concept for some,” said Stygar. “Many are nervous about giving it a try, but it makes an enormous difference when you put forth effort.” The program has helped many service members by giving them something to fall back on during tough times, said Stygar.
“The training has really helped me focus on the things I need to,” said Mike J. Rall, a former sailor who attends the class every week.
Classes are held at base’s Paige Field house every Monday at 6:15 p.m., no appointment is necessary.
“(The military) have great weaponry and do intense physical training, but your mind is your greatest weapon,” said Stygar.
For more information on Warrior Mind Training, call Semper Fit’s Health Promotions department at (760) 763-3794.

Whooping cough vaccine at Camp Pendleton Naval Hospital
by Lance Cpl. Mike Atchue
Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. — Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton and the base’s branch health clinics are prepared to assist in the prevention of a recently declared epidemic. Commonly known as whooping cough, pertussis is a very contagious airborne bacterial infection, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Since January, the California Department of Public Health has confirmed 910 cases of the illness and warned that this epidemic may result in the largest amount of illness and deaths in more than 50 years.
While anyone can catch pertussis and become ill, infants are especially vulnerable to the disease.
To fight the illness, NHCP and all base clinics are stocked with the vaccine.
All children, family members and caregivers of infants who are enrolled at NHCP are highly encouraged to get vaccinated or get a booster shot.
In a growing family, pregnant women may be vaccinated before, during or after pregnancy. Fathers and other siblings may be vaccinated at any time, but before a newborn’s birth is best.
To receive a vaccination, NHCP beneficiaries can either call for an appointment or walk-in at their primary care clinics. Active duty service members should visit their respective Branch Medical Clinic.
For more information about pertussis, visit NHCP’s website at www.cpen.med.navy.mil.

Leaders want input from military and families on "Don't Ask, Don't Tell"
8/4/2010
by Lt. Cmdr. Erik Wells
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The Department of Defense is asking and it wants Sailors to share their opinions about repealing the law commonly known as "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" (DADT).
NAVADMIN 254/10 released Aug. 2 encourages personnel to participate in the 2010 Department of Defense Comprehensive Review Survey. The survey is designed to provide service members an opportunity to convey their views of the impact, if any, a change in the law would have on military readiness, military effectiveness, unit cohesion and recruiting and retention.
The survey results will be included as part of the Secretary of Defense's report due Dec. 1.
Approximately 400,000 active duty and Reserve service members have been asked to participate in the survey.
The recipients of the survey were chosen at random across a range of ages, ranks and specialties. Survey specialists from the Defense Manpower Data Center worked with Westat, a private contracting firm outside the DoD, to conduct the anonymous and confidential survey. Also available is the opportunity to conduct a confidential, "online chat" with a Westat specialist regarding the survey.
The survey will take approximately 30 minutes to complete.
Sailors and family members who did not receive a survey may still provide confidential feedback online to the DoD Comprehensive Review Working Group by accessing the following website http://www.defense.gov/dadt. This is a CAC-enabled site.

Department of Defense announces 2010 Maintenance Awards winners
8/4/2010
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The Department of Defense (DoD) announced Aug. 4 the 2010 winners of the Secretary of Defense Maintenance Awards for depot and field-level units.
These awards are presented annually to recognize outstanding achievements in weapon system and military equipment maintenance.
The 2010 Robert T. Mason Depot Maintenance Excellence Award recipient is the Navy's Emergent Repair Program at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard and Intermediate Maintenance Facility. The program provided extraordinary support to combat forces by meeting or exceeding operational force requirements in every measurable category. Through innovative solutions, their diverse team was able to repair numerous surface ships and submarines in a very short period of time.
The depot-level award is named in recognition of Robert T. Mason, a former assistant deputy under secretary of defense for maintenance policy, programs and resources. Mason served as the champion of organic depot maintenance for three decades and was instrumental in transforming DoD organic depot-level operations.
A total of six field-level awards are presented in three categories - large, medium and small. The recipients of the 2010 Secretary of Defense Field-level Maintenance Awards in the large category are the Army's Bravo Company, 615th Aviation Support Battalion, Fort Hood, Texas, and the Navy's USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) homeported in Norfolk.
Winners in the medium category are the Navy's Fleet Readiness Center Northwest, Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Oak Harbor, Wash., and the Marine Corp's Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 40, Marine Corps Air Station, Cherry Point, N.C.
Small category winners are the Army's Bravo Company, 307th Brigade Support Battalion, Al Asad, Iraq, and the Air Force's 3rd Component Maintenance Squadron, Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska.
The awards will be presented to the winners at the Secretary of Defense Maintenance Awards banquet Nov. 17 during the 2010 DoD Maintenance Symposium and Exhibition at the Tampa convention center in Tampa, Fla.
Additional information regarding the 2010 DoD Maintenance Symposium and Exhibition can be found at www.sae.org/dod.

US Navy ships arrive at Seattle for Seafair 2010
8/4/2010
by MC2 Nardel Gervacio and MC2 Charles Whetstine
Navy Public Affairs Support Element West Det. Northwest
SEATTLE (NNS) -- USS Port Royal (CG 73), USS Kidd (DDG 100) and USS Green Bay (LPD 20) arrived in the Port of Seattle Aug. 3 for Seattle Seafair 2010.
Seattle Seafair is an annual summer celebration. The U.S. Navy, along with the Canadian navy and U.S. Coast Guard, participate in the event, during which selected ships sail into Seattle.
"Seafair is a great opportunity for Sailors to visit the great city of Seattle and interact with the public in a positive way," said Gas Turbine Systems Technician (Mechanical) 2nd Class (SW) Brian Macias assigned to the Kidd. "I'm really looking forward to some of the great events in Seattle that are open to Sailors, like the Mariners Military Appreciation Night."
There are various activities held throughout the week for the Sailors to participate in, but some plan to take advantage of being in the Seattle area and visiting with family and friends.
"I'm excited to see some of my friends from the area that I haven't seen in years," said Boatswain's Mate 2nd Class Richard Hinkson. "I'm also looking forward to the boat races and air show at Lake Washington."
For some, the arrival meant preparing for the next evolution, which would be the "Parade of Ships." This event involves the ships taking on groups and giving them tours while the ships pull out and cruise the Elliot Bay area.
The community is also invited aboard the ships from Aug. 2 - 5 at the downtown Seattle Waterfront.
Sailors said they were pleased to have the opportunity to visit Seattle and will get a chance to not only show the colors of the U.S. Navy, but to enjoy themselves while in port.
"It's a beautiful city and my first time here. It was kind of a long transit, but I'm ready to go out and eat some seafood," Electronics Technician 3rd Class (SW) John Polinard.
"I'm excited. I'm looking forward to getting out on liberty and seeing what Seattle has to offer. I might go find out what the Space Needle's all about," said Boatswain's Mate 1st (SW) Class John Cook.

Navy Recruiting District Los Angeles participates in X-Games
8/2/2010
by MCC (AW/SW) Anthony Briggs Jr.
Navy Recruiting District Los Angeles Public Affairs
LOS ANGELES (NNS) -- Navy Recruiting District (NRD) Los Angeles recruiters took part in the 16th ESPN Summer X-Games July 28 through Aug. 1 in Los Angeles.
More than 300,000 spectators descended upon Staples Center, Nokia Theater, L.A. LIVE and the Los Angeles Coliseum for the best in skateboard, BMX freestyle, Moto X and rally car events.
NRD Los Angeles recruiters, along with members from the special warfare community, promoted Navy opportunities at X Fest, a two-block area featuring interactive sponsor booths, musical performances, athlete appearances and family fun.
The SEAL Accelerator Challenge tested participant's fitness levels through push-ups, pull-ups, sit-ups and a cargo net climb. Prizes were awarded to each day's top male and female scores.
"I didn't think it would be that hard," said Ivan Rius, a 21-year-old from Hemet, Calif. "The cargo net wasn't as easy as it looked, but it was a lot of fun."
During the four-day event, the recruiters were visited by Dana White, president of the Ultimate Fighting Championship, and actors D.B. Sweeney, Michael Broderick and Gary Graham.
Graham, who starred as detective Matt Sikes in the television series "Alien Nation," toured the Navy's area and thanked the recruiters for their service.
"You guys do an outstanding job for our country, and I'm proud of each of you," said Graham. "I'm happy to support our military and all the things you do."
Members from the Navy's special warfare community brought out bomb suits, remote controlled robots and dive gear to answer questions of those interested in opportunities to serve in special warfare fields.
The 12-seat Navy simulator was also on hand to give guests an opportunity to be immersed in a full mission profile featuring Navy SEALs.
"The weekend was perfect," said Chief Navy Counselor Michael Drake. "Great weather, plus great people, made it a great time."