May 25 issue of The Signature

Armed ForcesKids Run

Page 3 Page 7

Asian-PacificIslanders Heritage

Month

NASSIG celebrates.

Page 11

Project Armor

Sigonella teens andtweens help

SAWS animals.

Kids get out and active.

Scan for direct linksto NAS Sigonella

MAY 25, 2012VOL. 29 NO. 20 cnic.navy.mil/sigonella

SIGNATURETHE

SIGONELLA, SICILY

Members of Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigo-nella united for the second annual Relay For Life(RFL) event, May 19-20. This year's event, ho-wever, was the first 24-hour event ever held onbase, and the first 24-hour event held in Sicily.

The concept of the 24-hour run/walk event isthat “cancer never sleeps.” Holding this eventthroughout the night shows support for thosewho have to battle cancer on a daily basis, 24-hours a day, often being unable to sleep or restdue to the pain associated with the disease andthe treatment process. Through the generouscontributions donated to RFL, the AmericanCancer Society is able to help people fight backagainst cancer, creating a world with more cancersurvivors.

The first RFL was held in 2011 and organizedby Engineman Chief Adam Miller as a six-hour

event. He hoped to generate enough support tohost a future 24-hour event like those held in ci-ties all over the United States.

Sigonellans answered the call. More than 162people signed up to participate. Sixteen teamsformed and began to find creative ways to raisemoney to support the cause.

Unfortunately, permanent change of station or-ders prevented Miller from seeing his vision comeinto fruition. But in true relay fashion, he passedthe baton to Rachel Kelly. She then enlisted thehelp of Master-at-Arms Chief Gabriel Harley ofNCIS to make the 24-hour relay a reality.

"I am amazed by the outpouring of commu-nity support, from the RFL team members whohelped organize the event to those that voluntee-red and participated, everyone has been dedica-ted to this great cause," said Electronics

Technician 3rd Class Jacob Balesi, publicitychairman for the RFL Leadership Committee.

Opening the relay, courageous survivors cir-cled the track together to celebrate the victoriesthey’ve achieved over cancer. They were then joi-ned by caregivers and together they completedthe second lap. On the third lap, the teams joinedin. After the fourth lap, which included all eventparticipants, RFL officially began.

Lt. Rick McCallister, a nurse with U.S. Naval

NAS Sigonella unites in support of Relay For Life

To help raise funds in support of Relay For Life, Maj. Jeff Lamport, executive officer (pictured above) and Lt. Col. Pauk Wojtowicz, commanding officer of Global Hawk used their heads, literally. Thinkingoutside the box, they volunteered to have their heads shaved, raising a whopping $1,500, the most money raised by two people. (Photo by Shakyra Canchaney Banos)

BY MR2 GARY SPENCENAS Sigonella Public Affairs

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

"No matter what happens ... the important thing is thatthe days that you have had, you will have lived."

– Gilda Radner

Continued on page 8

More than 162 people participated inthe 24-hour Relay For Life event. (U.S.Navy photo by MR2 Gary Spence)

THE SIGNATURETHE SIGNATURE MAY 25, 2012PAGE 2

THE SIGNATUREU.S. Naval Air Station Sigonella

Capt. Scott Butler, Commanding Officer

Cmdr. Eric Vosler, Executive Officer

CMDCM David Graham, Command Master Chief

EDITORIALLt. Tim Page, Public Affairs Officer

[email protected]

Dott. Alberto Lunetta, Community Relations Officer

[email protected]

Jackie Trembath, Editor

[email protected]

STAFFWriters/Photographers

MC1 Christopher Delano

[email protected]

MM2 Johnnathan Archbold

[email protected]

MC2 Gary Prill

[email protected]

MR2 Gary Spence

[email protected]

MCSN Cameron Bramham

[email protected]

MCSN Brian Glunt

[email protected]

CONTACT USNaval Air Station Sigonella, [email protected] 624-5440; 095-86-5440

PSC 812 Box 3020, FPO, AE 09627

CONTRIBUTINGWriters/Photographers

Shakyra Chanchaney Banos

Nikol Black

David Brown

HM3 Matthew Clutter

Ann Forrest

Chelsea Humphrey

Ed Lucio

Nathan Wittkamp

PUBLISHERStampa Generale S.r.l.,Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher,Naval Support Activity Capodichino (Naples), [email protected]

Tel. 081-568-7884 – Fax 081-568-7887

This civilian enterprise (CE) newspaper is anauthorized publication for members of themilitary services overseas. Contents ofThe Signature are not necessarily the officialviews of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government,the Department of Defense (DoD), or theU.S. Navy. The appearance of advertising in thisnewspaper, including inserts or supplements,does not constitute endorsement by the DoDor Stampa Generale S.r.l., of the products orservices advertised. Everything advertised inthis publication shall be made available forpurchase, use or patronage without regard torace, 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 thisequal opportunity policy by an advertiser willresult in the refusal to print advertising from thatsource until the violation is corrected.The Signature is published weekly by StampaGenerale 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 allNaval Air Station Sigonella departments,divisions and tenant commands. Editorialsubmissions should be sent to the Public AffairsOffice via [email protected], guard mail stop#68 or hand-delivered to our office no later thanthe close of business on the Friday proceedingthe expected publication date. All articlessubmitted by non-staff members will beconsidered contributing writers.

The Signature will not publish any anonymousarticles. All advertisements in this publication arethe property of Stampa Generale S.r.l. Anyreproduction of advertisements in The Signatureis unauthorized without the written consent ofthe publisher.

cnic.navy.mil/sigonella

Memorial Day, originally known as Decoration Day, is morethan simply the unofficial opening of the summer season; it is theday that we Americans set aside every year to remember those whohave paid the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms that we continueto enjoy.

So this year, while taking the time off to take advantage of allthat Sicily and Europe has to offer, I hope that you also take sometime to reflect on the true meaning of Memorial Day and honorthe service members who have come before you.

With the four day weekend upon us, here are a couple items tothink about to ensure a fun and safe holiday:

Fire Safety: For many of us this weekend marks the beginningof barbecue season. Prior to firing up your grill, please take the timeto ensure that the grill is well maintained and in good workingorder by checking for cleanliness and ensuring that there are nocracks in the propane line. For those chefs cooking over coals,please keep in mind that it is never safe to pour lighter fluid on litbriquettes. Last but not least, no matter what type of grill you areusing, please do not leave your fires unattended.

Driving Safety: Before you decide to hit the road and go explo-ring this weekend, remember to inspect your car prior to drivinglong distances. When on the road, allow plenty of distance bet-ween you and other drivers, obey the speed limits and buckle up.In just the last week we have had 12 accidents, so slow down, takeyour time and pay attention.

Recreational Safety: Warmer weather means more outdoor ac-tivities. Ensure when using ATV’s, JetSki’s, or other recreationalvehicles, you utilize the proper safety gear. The simple use of a hel-met can prevent minor accidents from becoming fatal.

Do not drink and drive: This is a common message in

Sigonella, yet westill have seenan increase inDUI/DWI inci-dents this month.It’s simple. If youdrink, do not drive.When going out atnight have a planfor the evening. Ifyour plan fallsthrough, use thelocal taxis or callyour chain of com-mand, or security.Most important,remember to lookout for friends andyour shipmates. Bytaking care of each other you may prevent your friend from beco-ming the next years’ statistic.

Once Memorial Day is behind us, we all need to remember thatwe’ve entered the 101 Critical Days of Summer. The period fromnow until Labor Day is typically the most dangerous period of theyear, and it is a time when we all need to exercise increased vigi-lance in our surroundings and our activities. It is, unfortunately,the highest risk period of the year; however, many of the accidentsthat occur throughout the summer are entirely preventable. Pleasetake a moment out of your day to consider the safety of yourself,your family and Shipmates around you.

NAS Sigonella Acting Executive Officer Lt. Cmdr. Donald Crumpacker

DR

IVE

SA

FELY

THE SIGNATURETHE SIGNATURE PAGE 3MAY 25, 2012

Around NAS Sigonella ...

NAS Sigonella SAPR Victim Advocate Hotline: 335-642-8312DoD SAFE Hotline: 001-877-995-5247 (from cell phones and off-base telephones)19020 (toll-free access code) 877-995-5247 (From DSN lines)

On May 18, American Red Cross (ARC) Sigonellaand Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) sponso-red Sigonella's first Bike to Work Day. It was a great op-portunity to take advantage of a beautiful springmorning and get to work with pedal power. Riders mo-stly rode in from Motta and Marinai, but one stronggroup rode all the way from Acitrezza! Coffee andsnacks awaited the riders at "pit stops" near the gatesof NAS I and NAS II.

National Bike to Work Day was started by the Leagueof American Bicyclists, who also promote Bike Week andBike Month during May. Since its origin, this day hasdeveloped into a nationwide event. Local, regional, andnational bicycle advocacy groups participate to encou-rage people to commute to work using a bicycle.

Whether you are environmentally conscious or justlove the exercise, biking to work is a great way to avoidthe commuter traffic and stay in shape!

Pedal power: Sigonellans bike to workBY NATHAN WITTKAMPAmerican Red Cross Sigonella

Sigonellans participated in Bike to Work Day, May 18. One group of bikers (pictured above) rode in from Acitrezza!(Photo by Nathan Wittkamp)

Kids from the Sigonella community got together at the school track onNAS I to participate in the annual Armed Forces Kids Run.

As part of Armed Forces Day activities in May, military dependants onbases around the world participate in the annual run. Approximately 48kids took part in the event in Sigonella, which was organized by Sean Hol-land, youth sports coordinator of Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR).

“[The run] gives kids a chance to get out from in front of the TV andvideo games or away from the computer." said Holland. "MWR is very sup-portive of this event and we’ve done it for several years now.”

Armed Forces Kids Run gets kids movingBY MR2 GARY SPENCENAS Sigonella Public Affairs

Kids of all ages from the Sigonella community gathered on the school track atNAS I to participate in the annual Armed Forces Kids Run May 17. (U.S. Navyphoto by MC2 Gary Prill/Released)

More than 150 service and community members from Naval Air Station(NAS) Sigonella packed the Midtown Theater to see Comedian BernieMcGrenahan and his acclaimed ‘Happy Hour’ comedy show May 17.The ‘Happy Hour’ comedy show educated the audience about topics in-cluding alcohol and drug abuse, sexual assault and harassment and suicideprevention, while mixing in jokes and comedy sketches which made theaudience laugh time and time again. (U.S. Navy photo by MCSN CameronBramham/Released)

Comedian Bernie McGrenahan shareslaughs and lessons learned

Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella chapel held its first spring concert on May 17. The concert was performedby pianist Eleonora Trobia and violinist Isidoro Cavallaro. Trobia and Cavallaro are chapel musicians who re-gularly perform during worship services. The concert is one of the many events sponsored by the ReligiousMinistries Department. The next concert is planned for June 14. Also coming soon: The Vacation Bible School,June 18 - 22. Those interested in volunteering or having their child participate should contact the chapel officeat 624-3975. (U.S. Navy photo by MR2 Gary Spence/Released)

Religious Ministries hosts Spring Concert

Need an appointment at thehospital? Call DSN 624-CARE (2273) or commercial095-56-2273, M-F: 7:30 a.m.- 4 p.m.

For non-emergent medicalquestions that arise over theweekend, a holiday or afteroffice hours, please call 335-578-8077 if you are normallyseen at the hospital or 335-578-8150 if you are normallyseen at the Flight Line Clinic.

THE SIGNATURE MAY 25, 2012PAGE 4

FFSC: x4291American Red Cross: x4900

Does your command or organization have an event you’d like to see on the Community Calendar? Email us at [email protected] and let us know!

C O M M U N I T Y C A L E N D A RFRIDAY

25

Family Fitness Centeron NAS I in Midtown

opens

Splashers Poolopens

ITT Siracusa

26 27

SATURDAY SUNDAY

JUNE 1

ITTSwan Lake Ballet by

TchaikovskyDepart NAS 1 at 4 p.m.

Cosmic bowling

2 3

87

Bowling2 for 1

BingoConnections

KaraokeJox Pub

6

Inner tube water poloSplashers pool

6 p.m.

Texas Hold EmJox Pub6 p.m.

54

$1 DayBowling

Cosmic bowling

9 10

MONDAY

28

Memorial Day

BBQConnections

$1 DayBowling

Alcantara GorgeITT

ConnectionsArmed Forces BBQ

6:30 p.m.

Take 5Outdoor Movie & BBQ

Texas Hold EmJox Pub6 p.m.

29 30

TUESDAY WEDNESDAY

World No Tobacco Day

Bowling2 for 1

BingoConnections

KaraokeJox Pub

31

THURSDAY

May2012

Liberty/Connections/Take 5: x4246, x5602Outdoor Rec: x4777, x4396

Fitness: x4483, x5243Midtown 2 Theaters: x4248

THE SIGNATUREMAY 25, 2012 PAGE 5

Whether you spent four years or 25 years in themilitary, leaving is emotional and involving. One si-gnificant consideration when you decide to leave themilitary is your final permanent change of station(PCS) move.

Similarities between regular-duty moves andthe final move

Sailors and Marines must contact the Traffic Ma-nagement Office (TMO) before any PCS move. TMOthen assigns you a contact person who oversees theentire move process. Because all PCS moves are madethrough the government, the same standards apply forthe Navy and Marines.

The same protocol exists for regular PCS movesand final PCS moves, including the claims process. Forexample, the same weight entitlements apply, as wellas items eligible for shipping. The same type of prepa-ration applies, also. It’s important to make a clear in-ventory of household goods and, if possible, avideotape of furniture and other valuable items. Get-ting appraisals for expensive items such as antiquesand jewelry is always a good idea.

Pre-separation briefSeparating service members are required by law to

attend a pre-separation brief. This brief lasts all day andcovers everything from finances and moving to finalmilitary responsibilities. Spouses, though not requiredto attend, are strongly encouraged to because of theamount of important and useful information that ispresented.

Home of recordAll service members have a home of record, which

is the location where they joined the military. When

making the final move, the movers will take you any-where in the country as long as it does not exceed thedistance of your home of record. Your TMO represen-tative will clear up any mileage discrepancies, and anyadditional costs will be taken from either the last re-gular paycheck or the first retiree paycheck.

Permanent residenceDeciding where to set up your permanent resi-

dence takes much time and thought. If you are livingon base and find yourself undecided about your finaldestination, you can vacate base housing and live intown for up to a year. The government will pay for re-locating you to town and the final destination move.You can also use temporary storage for up to a year. Itis common for former military personal to attend po-lice, DEA, or FBI academies, in which case they maynot know their final destination for months. The formerservice member can keep all household goods in tem-porary storage and then move according to the new as-signment, all of which is paid for by the government.

Important issuesWhen you decide to leave the military, you should

notify the TMO as soon as possible. Unlike a servicemember responding to new orders, a person leavingthe military has a little more control concerning themove time. Those leaving usually choose summer,especially if they have children who might be finishingthe school year. Because summer is a popular moveseason, separating service members should contact theTMO as much as 18 months in advance. If you or so-meone you know has questions regarding an upco-ming PCS move, please contact the FFSC at624-4291.

Fleet and FamilySupport CenterAdministrationBuilding Bldg. 319 (NAS I)

Monday–Friday7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. DSN 624-4291 Commercial095-56-4291

Making your final PCS moveBY VALERIE GROSZLIFELines


JUST SAY IT!

Practice your Italian

English: Milk chocolateand hazelnutItalian: Gianduia

English: Chocolate Italian: Cioccolato

English: PistachioItalian: Pistacchio

English: HazelnutItalian: Nocciola

English: VanillaItalian: Vaniglia

English: AlmondItalian: Mandorla

English: Ice creamItalian: Gelato

English: StrawberryItalian: Fragola

English: LemonItalian: Limone

Imagine a quiet, shining beach inthe south of Sicily suddenly turninginto a bloody medieval battlefield. Inthe spring of 1091, Norman CountRoger was ready to drive out the Sa-racen invaders from Sicily. Led bythe powerful Egyptian Emir Badr AlGamali, the Moors were determinedto land on the shore of Donnalucatanear Scicli (Ragusa province) andfight against the Christians for con-trol of the area. According to legend,they boasted a fleet of 400 ships and60,000 troops. A scenario which waspretty common at that time as the is-land was constantly raided by Moo-rish pirates and barbarians.

In the Italian language, there arestill idiomatic expressions recallingthe fear that the local population hadtowards those Saracen invasionssuch as “Mamma li Turchi!” (Mom,the Turks are coming!), or “SugnuPigghiatu de tucchi" (The Turks gotme), an exclamation which Siciliansutter when they are very confusedabout something. Those expressionsshould not be taken verbatim; theyare just a cultural legacy of a losttime during which the OttomanEmpire tried to expand its territoryto the West by conquering Italianports.

According to legend, during thebattle, Scicli townspeople and Rogercould not even imagine who was

about to help them against such apowerful enemy. His troops were re-portedly outnumbered and he ri-sked suffering a crushing defeat.However, it should be pointed outthat the number of the Moorish tro-ops was usually greatly inflated byNorman historians to sensationalizethe victory of the Christian army,which was typically “supported” bysupernatural forces.

In the middle of the fight, theVirgin Mary suddenly appeared, ri-ding a white horse and wielding aflaming sword, which shone sobright that it blinded the Moorishtroops, pushing them back to seaand paving the way for the Chri-stians’ victory. Even though there isno historic evidence that the VirginMary actually appeared in the battle-field, Scicli townspeople still havefaith in it and they made her the pa-tron saint of their town, giving herthe name “Madonna delle Milizie”or Virgin Mary of the Armies.

Besides St. George, there is norecord of any Catholic saints whoare depicted on horseback holding aweapon, which makes this is a ratherunique tradition which can only beseen in Scicli.

A few years after the battle, a san-ctuary was erected on the site cele-brate the miraculous apparition ofthe beloved Madonna who rescued

the community from the invaders.The sanctuary, which hosts a holyrock on which the Virgin Mary’shorse is said to have left a hoof-print,was then enlarged in 1391 and fur-ther restructured in 1721 after a ter-rible earthquake that had destroyedthe town in 1693. Later, in 1736, thereligious authorities ruled that a fe-stival honoring the Madonna wouldbe held every year on the Saturdaypreceding Passion Sunday. Eversince, the festival has been Scicli’smost anticipated religious event ofthe year, which draws thousands ofvisitors.

Today, the prodigious eventsthat occurred during the battle arebrought back to life through a spec-tacular historic re-enactment that isstaged tomorrow night (Saturday,May 26). The performance is amust-see because it features elabo-rate medieval costumes and a brea-thtaking background setting. Itbegins around 8 p.m. in Piazza Italia,the main square.

A precious 19th century papier-mâché statue depicting Virgin Maryon a horseback is undoubtedly thehighlight of the show. The statue iskept in Scicli’s cathedral. The showalso features the landing of the Sara-cen pirate ship named “Stambul,” aswell as spectacular battle scenes.

Scicli is a beautiful picturesque

Madonna delle Milizie Religious Festival in Scicli

Caltagirone spring events offer a variety of arts, outdoor activities, good Sicilian food and religious festas (festival) celebrating theMadonna di Conadomini, the town’s patron. (Photo by http://amedit.wordpress.com )

Baroque town located in a valley inthe Ragusa province.

At the end of the performance,the statue depicting Virgin Mary iscarried throughout the streets of thehistoric center during a touching pro-cession. Arts, crafts and food standswill be set up during the event.

For more information, direc-tions and detailed schedules visithttp://www.comune.scicli.rg.it

Scicli can be easily reached bytaking SS 194 (Catania-Ragusa).Once in Ragusa, continue sou-thward following directions for Mo-dica and then Scicli.


May is Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month(APAHM) and members of the Naval Air Station(NAS) Sigonella Filipino American (Fil-Am) Asso-ciation and NAS Sigonella Heritage Committee cametogether May 20 at Knight’s Hall to celebrate all Asianand Pacific island service members and descendants.

“[APAHM] foster’s a sense of pride and accom-plishment,” APAHM Event Coordinator Vicky Taezasaid. “I think it is very important that our servicemembers know that they play a key role in shaping thefuture of our military and our nation.”

Honoring Asian-Pacific American Heritage datesback to 1977 when two House of Representativemembers introduced a resolution proclaiming the firstten days of May as Asian Pacific Heritage Week(APHW). The following year, President Jimmy Cartersigned a joint resolution designating APHW as an an-nual celebration. In 1990, the holiday was expandedto a full month by President George H. Bush.

“It means so much to see a turn out like we had,”Personnel Specialist Seaman Phyo Myo said. “Weworked really hard over the past few weeks and it wasawesome to see everyone come out and support ourcustoms and traditions!”

Overall there were 16 performances including aMuay Thai martial-arts display and a Maori Haka

dance, originally from New Zealand. The celebrationalso included remarks from guest speakers Cmdr.Raoul H. Santos and Capt. Robert Gantt. After the

performances, attendees were invited by the Fil-Amto try several different Asian and Pacific island-stylecuisines including homemade sushi and lumpia.

NAS Sigonella Commanding Officer, Capt. ScottButler said it’s events like the APAHM celebrationthat make NAS Sigonella a strong, community-drivenbase.

“This is a great event that really shows the com-mon heritage that we all share,” Butler said. “It’s greatto see [NAS] Sigonella come together and celebrateour diversity, which builds a stronger community.”

NASSIG celebrates Asian-Pacific Islanders Heritage Month

BY MCSN CAMERON BRAMHAMNAS Sigonella Public Affairs

Command Challenge

Performances showcased Asian-Pacific American heritage during the Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month event onMay 20. (Photos by Ed Lucio)

BY MC2 GARY PRILLNPASE - East Detachment Sigonella

Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella’s Morale Welfare and Recreation(MWR) celebrated Armed Forces Day with a Command Challenge, May18, allowing commands from around the base to test their endurance andskills at team events designed to build unit morale and team working skills.

“This event is about a celebration of the armed forces. It brings the com-mand together to participate as a team in a fun environment, in some outof the ordinary events,” said John Lenz, MWR athletic director.

Ten teams and more than 150 Sailors, Marines, and civilian employeesparticipated this year in events testing strength and stamina including theDon’t Tread on Me challenge relay race, Skid Marks Slip-and-Slide distancecompetition, the Not So Amazing Race, Bridges for Inchworms and the Eli-minator Relay Obstacle Course.

“The turn out this year was great. It’s the first year Navy-Marine CorpsRelief Society had a team, and the 41st Stormo was out scouting the eventto set up a team next year,” said Lenz. “We had a lot of military family andcivilians out there. It brought a different element to the competition. It isso nice to be able to bring the whole community together for these kindsof events.”

Awards for the event included Navy Exchange gift cards for first, secondand third place along with a gift card for the team with the best spirit andsportsmanship. Teams placed on a point system for events along with anadditional score for a team banner.

Ultimately Ops Team #2 consisting of a mix of Sailors from NAS Sigo-nella Operations Department and Marines from Special Purpose MarineAir Ground Task Force (SPMAGTF) 12.2 showed their team spirit andskills with a first place win.

“It was awesome to participate in the events. We didn’t know our teamprior to the event. The team needed female participants so we volunteered,and went out there and dominated” said Cpl. Melanie Molano.

Sailors from Naval Air Station Sigonella's Aviation Intermediate MaintenanceDepartment and Public Works Department participate in the Don't Tread on MeRelay as part of the Sigonella Command Challenge 18 May 2012. The commandChallenge involved 10 teams challenging each other in 5 events as part of a cele-bration of Armed Forces Day. (US Navy photo by MC2 Gary Prill)

WORLD NO TOBACCO DAYMay 31

Come to the Commissary for tobacco cessationinformation. For one-on-one appointments,

contact the Health Promotion office at 624-4710.


Hospital Sigonella, challenged himself to walk or run forthe complete 24-hours. Although not having had any fa-mily members affected by cancer, McCallister has expe-rienced firsthand the pain cancer can cause.

“I worked in the oncology ward for three months priorto getting my training and in that three months I assistedfamilies through three departures of family members," saidMcCallister. "I’ve also seen a very young service member,who’d been in the service only six months on active duty,get diagnosed with terminal cancer. Now I’m in Women’sHealth as part of our annual screening process. Fortunatelyat this point in my career I haven’t had to make that phonecall to give someone that message."

During his 24-hours on the track, McCallister comple-ted 52.5 miles in 263 laps.

“To me, the past 24-hours, no matter what I put myselfthough, is nothing compared to what this disease does topeople, their friends, their family, their caregivers," saidMcCallister. "If I can put myself through a little discomfortto benefit stopping that from happening, then I’ll put my-self through that every day.”

McCallister was not the only participant to push himself

to the limit in support of the fight against cancer. Membersof the Seabee team of Naval Mobile Construction Batta-lion 3 ran the entire 24-hours. Using the Seabee flag as abaton, they passed it from member to member as each per-son took their turn on the track. Their distance totaled ap-proximately 130 miles!

"Last year, RFL raised approximately $10,000, and thisyear we were hoping to break the $20,000 mark," said Ba-lesi. "We did it! Thanks to the efforts of the Sigonella com-munity, more than $30,000 was raised - $3,500 of it at theevent itself."

Out of all the teams, Aircraft Intermediate MaintenanceDetachment (AIMD) Spouses Team led by Team CaptionLisa Marshall, raised the most money with their creativefundraising.

"From hosting a 5K Poker Run in early May, to settingup slushie, popcorn and cotton candy machines at therelay, AIMD spouses really pulled together for this cause,"said Balesi. "They even sold necklaces that one could addbeads to after every lap to help walkers keep track, whichwere really helpful considering how many laps were com-pleted."

Runners and walkers combined covered more than1,454 miles throughout the Relay for Life 24-hour event -

approximately the distance from New York City to KeyWest, Florida!

"This event really gave everyone in the community achance to show their support all together in a great way," saidmelanoma survivor and event participant Lisa Ventura.

As the morning dawned on Sunday, everyone gatheredon the track to complete one final lap - the Fight Back lap,which is a show of united support in the fight against can-cer. Afterwards, the small encampment dispersed, eachparticipant heading home for some much deserved rest.But as Chief Harley pointed out, this was not the end.

“All of us have the ability to walk away with a great senseof pride of how we honored and celebrated ourselves andthe ones we love," said Harley. "However, there are thoseamong us and those in our community that can’t simply justpick up and walk away after 24-hours. That battle continues.”

Naval Hospital Sigonella Health Promotion department conducted their annual Wellness Fair during this year’s RelayFor Life. The purpose for the Wellness Fair is to promote healthy living as research is finding is that some cancers arerelated to diet and lifestyle. The Wellness Fair included almost 20 tables covering a wide range of health topics, fromtobacco cessation to choosing healthy food options. The hospital was joined by the Navy Exchange, Commissary andMorale Welfare and Recreation to make this year’s event a success. Pictured above, Lt. j.g. Aspen Alu (center), healthpromotions coordinator shared healthful information with event attendee. (U.S. Navy photo by MR2 GarySpence/Released).

RELAY continued from page 1

After 24 hours and 1,454 miles later, Relay For Life participants celebrate the end of a successful event. Together, the Sigonella community helped to raise more than $30,000 to support the fight against cancer. More than $3,500 was raised during the 24-hour event.(Photo by Shakyra Canchaney Banos)

Walking the entire 24-hours of the event, Lt. Rick McCallister,a nurse at U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella completed 263 laps.(Photo by Shakyra Canchaney Banos)Wellness Fair 2012 joins forces with Relay For Life

RR ee ll aa yy FFoo rr LL ii ff ee22 00 11 22

Most creative fund raising: AIMD Spouses

Most energetic team: NMCB Detachment 3

Best theme: Team Island Hawks

Most creative camp site: Tropical Tuskers

TEAM AWARDS


After 24 hours and 1,454 miles later, Relay For Life participants celebrate the end of a successful event. Together, the Sigonella community helped to raise more than $30,000 to support the fight against cancer. More than $3,500 was raised during the 24-hour event.(Photo by Shakyra Canchaney Banos)

Walking with other event participants, Rachel Kelley (left) and MAC Gabriel Harley (right) helped make the 24-hour RelayFor Life event a reality.(U.S. Navy photo by MR2 Gary Spence)

Walking the entire 24-hours of the event, Lt. Rick McCallister,a nurse at U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella completed 263 laps.(Photo by Shakyra Canchaney Banos)

Staff Sgt. Jeremy Thatcher of Global Hawk walkednon-stop for 12 hours of the event. (Photo by Shakyra Canchaney Banos)

A member of NMCB 3 completes his one-hour leg ofthe event. NMCB 3 team members ran the entire 24hours, passing their flag to each member taking thetrack. (Photo by Shakyra Canchaney Banos)

Lisa Marshall (right), captain of the AIMD Spouses Team made theevent a family affair completing 44 miles combined between her,her husband and daughter.(Photo by Shakyra Canchaney Banos)

As part of the event, the Luminaria ceremonyprovided a time of quiet reflection to remem-ber those who lost their battle with cancer andthose who are still fighting.(Photo by ShakyraCanchaney Banos)

Pictured above, local band Appaloosa Victor performed into the nightto keep runners and walkers motivated during the event. A DJ helpedprovide music throughout the entire event along with the band Keep The Wound who also performed. (U.S. Navy photo by MR2 GarySpence/Released)

Informational signs were placed in various locationson the track. (Photo by Shakyra Canchaney Banos)


Friday, 25 MAY 12*Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Sausage Links, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, RoastedPotatoes, Waffles, Asstd Doughnuts, Apple Fritters.*Lunch: New England Clam Chowder, Lemon Baked Fish, Grilled Pork Chops w/ Mushroom Gravy,Steamed Rice, Garlic Roasted Potatoes, Asparagus, Creole Green Beans, Sugar Cookies, CheeseCake, Vanilla Cream Pudding.Speed line: Grilled Hamburger/Cheeseburger, French Fries, Baked Beans.*Dinner: Vegetable Supreme Soup, Teriyaki Chicken, Oven Browned Potatoes, Spinach, OrientalStir Fry, Sugar Cookies, Cheesecake, Vanilla Cream Pudding.

Saturday, 26 MAY 12*Breakfast: Farina, Grilled Ham Slices, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, RoastedPotatoes, Buttermilk Pancakes, Asstd Doughnuts, Butterhorns.*Brunch: Breakfast Items, Cream of Mushroom Soup, Chicken Parmesan, Pork Fried Rice, CajunOven Fries, Steamed Broccoli, Glazed Carrots, Almond Cookies, Blueberry Pie.*Dinner: Logging Soup, Beef Stir Fry, Steamed Rice, Peas, Corn Whole Kernel, Almond Cookies,Blueberry Pie.

Sunday, 27 MAY 12*Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Grilled Minute Steak, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order,Roasted Potatoes, French Toast, Asstd Doughnuts, Kolaches.*Brunch: Breakfast Items, Bean & Bacon Soup, Cheddar and Chicken Broccoli, Rosemary PotatoWedges, Steamed Brussels Sprouts, Glazed Carrots, Hermits, Velvet Pound Cake.*Dinner: Pepper Pot Soup, Jaegerschnitzel, Rice Pilaf, Cauliflower Polonaise, Seasoned Succotash,Garlic Bread, Hermits, Velvet Pound Cake.

Monday, 28 MAY 12*Breakfast: Hominy Grits, Minced Beef w/ Toast, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order,Roasted Potatoes, French Toast, Asstd Doughnuts, Butterfly Rolls.*Lunch: Cream of potato Soup, Baked Fish, Spaghetti Carbonara,Yankee Pot Roast, SouthwesternRice, Parsley Buttered Potatoes, Calico Cabbage, Sprouts Superba, Almond Cake, Peach Crunch,Butterscotch Pudding.*Speed line: Sloppy Joe.*Dinner: Beef Noodle Soup, Salisbury Steak, Brown Rice w/ Tomatoes, Collard Greens, LyonnaiseWax Beans, Almond Cake, Peach Crunch, Butterscotch Pudding.

Tuesday, 29 MAY 12*Breakfast: Farina, Oven Fried Bacon, Baked Sausage Patties, Biscuits and Gravy, Asstd Omelets,Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, Waffles, Asstd Doughnuts, Butterfly Rolls. *Lunch: Arroz Caldo Soup, Chicken Adobo, Linguine w/scallops , Steamed Rice, Cut Green Beans,Steamed Carrots, Fruit Cocktail Upside Down Cake, Chocolate Chip Cookies.Speed line: Italian Sausage W/ Pepper & Onion, Oven Fried Potatoes.*Dinner: Manhattan Clam Chowder, Ribeye Roll Steak, Baked Potatoes, Cream Style Corn, Carrots,Fruit Cocktail Upside Down Cake, Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Wednesday, 30 MAY 12*Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Creamed Ground Beef, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order,Roasted Potatoes, Blueberry Pancakes, Asstd Doughnuts, Danish Diamonds.*Lunch: Mulligatawny Soup, Roast Turkey, Pasta al Forno, Steamed Rice, Mashed Potatoes, ChickenGravy, Peas & Carrots, Steamed Cauliflower, Sweet Potato Pie, Shortbread Cookies, Peach Gelatin.*Speed line: Grilled Cheese/Hamburger, Baked Beans, French Fried Potatoes.*Dinner: Chicken noodles soup, Fish Breaded, Steamed Rice, Lima Beans, Vegetable Stir Fry, SweetPotato Pie, Shortbread Cookies.

Thursday, 31 MAY 12*Breakfast: Hominy Grits, Corned Beef Hash, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order,Roasted Potatoes, French Toast, Asstd Doughnuts, Pineapple Carrot Muffin.*Lunch: Corn Chowder Soup, Farfalle w/Lobster Sauce, Beef Sauerbraten, Orange Rice, MashedPotatoes, Steamed Asparagus, Summer Squash, Devils Food Cake, Fruit Nut Bar. *Speed line: Assorted Pizza, Chicken Drum.*Dinner: Beef Noodle Soup, Chicken Parmesan, Steamed Rice, Steamed Broccoli, Seasoned Carrots,Devils Food Cake, Fruit Nut Bar.

Friday, 01 JUN 12*Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Grilled Sausage Links, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order,Roasted Potatoes, Waffles, Asstd Doughnuts, Apple Fritters.*Lunch: New England Clam Chowder, Fried/Baked Pollok Fish, Pasta al Forno , Mushroom Gravy,Steamed Rice, Roasted Garlic Potatoes, Steamed Asparagus, Fried Cauliflower, Lemon Cookies,Cheese Cake, Chocolate Cream Pudding.Speed line: Grilled Cheese/Hamburger, Baked Beans, French Fried Potatoes.*Dinner: Cream Of Mushroom Soup, Cantonese Spareribs, Sandwich, Pork Fried Rice, Spaghettiw/Garlic & Oil, Steamed Whole Corn, Seasoned Spinach, Lemon Cookies, Cheese Cake, ChocolateCream Pudding.

More than 30 Sailors from the security de-partment and Navy Computer and Tele-communication Station (NCTS) at

Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella volunteered forcommunity relations (COMREL) projects May 9and 11.

The COMREL projects were organized bymembers of the two commands in order to showthe base’s participation and support to the localcommunity.

The members of the security department pickedup trash, pulled weeds and performed landscaping onthe community garden, May 9, at the Edicola Sacradel Calvario, a park and garden near the Motta Castle,which hosts a small alter with a religious statue.

“I really wanted to do this to show the commu-nity outside of base that we are here to help,” saidMaster-at-Arms 3rd Class Amber Schmock, secu-rity department COMREL coordinator. “We got alot done and that’s what is important.”

The second project was the first phase of a COM-REL gardening project promoted by NCTS aimed at

beautifying the Motta children’s park, May 11. Thisphase consisted of picking up trash and cutting over-grown grass and weeds throughout the park.

“I feel this is important because it shows the hostcountry that we are a part of the community thatwe share and respect their community and their cul-ture,” said Steel Worker 1st Class (SCW) RaymondCabral, NCTS COMREL coordinator. “This is forthe neighborhood kids. I think as long as this parkgets used, everyone will be happy with the work wehave put into it.”

The second phase of the project is to repair theplayground equipment throughout the park tomake it safe for children to play on.

The vice mayor of Motta Saint Anastasia, Anto-nio Zuccarello, also volunteered his time workingside by side with the security department andNCTS volunteers at both locations.

“This is a very nice gesture from the service mem-bers from Sigonella,” said Zuccarello. “All the workershave been working very hard with such professiona-lism. I thank all of them for their support.”

NAS Sigonella Sailors volunteer in local community gardening projectsBY MCSN BRIAN GLUNTNPASE - East Detachment Sigonella

(ABOVE) Antonio Zuccarello (left), vice mayor of Motta Saint Anastasia, rakes disgardedbranches as MA3 Amber Schmock (center) and MASN Tyler Christianson wait to load theminto a bucket at the Edicola Sacra del Calvario park and garden, May 9.

(RIGHT) Members of Naval Air Station Sigonella’s NCTS rake up grass and performlandscape maintenance in a children’s park, May 11, during a COMREL project. The COMRELgardening project promoted by NCTS was the first phase aimed at beautifying Motta SaintAnastasia’s Childrens Park. (U.S. Navy Photos by MCSN Brian T. Glunt/Released)


Friday, May 255:00 PM Mirror Mirror PG 5:30 PM Wrath of the Titans PG-137:30 PM The Hunger Games PG-138:00 PM 21 Jump Street R

Saturday, May 26 2:00 PM Mirror Mirror PG 2:30 PM The Avengers PG-13 4:30 PM Dark Shadows PG-13 5:30 PM 21 Jump Street R7:30 PM American Reunion R Sunday, May 27 2:00 PM Dark Shadows PG-132:30 PM Mirror Mirror PG4:30 PM The Avengers PG-135:00 PM John Carter PG-137:30 PM American Reunion R

Monday, May 283:00 PM Dark Shadows PG-133:30 PM Mirror Mirror PG5:30 PM The Avengers PG-136:00 PM The Hunger Games PG-13

Tuesday, May 295:00 PM John Carter PG-135:30 PM Wrath of the Titans PG-13 7:30 PM 21 Jump Street R8:00 PM American Reunion R Wednesday, May 30 5:00 PM Mirror Mirror PG 5:30 PM Dark Shadows PG-13 7:30 PM John Carter PG-138:00 PM Silent House R

Thursday, May 315:00 PM Mirror Mirror PG5:30 PM A Thousand Words PG-13 7:30 PM American Reunion R8:00 PM 21 Jump Street R

Friday, June 15:00 PM Men In Black 3 PG-13 5:30 PM Dark Shadow PG-137:30 PM Lockout PG-138:00 PM American Reunion R MIDNIGHT Battleship PG-13

Midtown Movie theaters

SCHEDULE & DESCRIPTIONS

Movie schedule is subject to change. Please call to confirm.

Movie Hotline: 624-4248

AMERICAN REUNION……………RSTARRING: Jason Biggs, Alyson Hannigan and Seann William Scott

The American Pie series comes full circle as the characters from the 1999comedy classic return to East Great Falls for their ten-year high-school re-union and experience a weekend they will never forget. (1 hr. 53 min.)

MEN IN BLACK 3………….PG-13STARRING: Will Smith, Tommy Lee Jones and Josh Brolin

Agent J travels in time to MIB's early years in the 1960s, to stop an alienfrom assassinating his friend Agent K and changing history. (1 hr. 43 min.)

DARK SHADOWS……….…PG-13STARRING: Johnny Depp, Michelle Pfeiffer and Eva Green

An imprisoned vampire, Barnabas Collins, is set free and returns to hisancestral home, where his dysfunctional descendants are in need of hisprotection. (1 hr. 43 min.)

BATTLESHIP………………….PG-13STARRING:Alexander Skarsgård, Brooklyn Decker and Liam Neeson

A fleet of ships is forced to do battle with an armada of unknown originsin order to discover and thwart their destructive goals. (2 hrs. 11 min.)

MWR’s Teen Summer Hire Program kicks off next week! Theprogram is for ages 14 – 18 and gives Sigonella’s youth the oppor-tunity to learn new skills and make some extra cash over the sum-mer!

There will be two orientation seminars next week. Teens whoare interested in working with MWR for the summer must attendone of the seminars on Tuesday, May 29 or Wednesday, May 30from 3 p.m – 5 p.m in The Compass Room above Connections onNAS I. Participants will learn resume-writing skills and interviewtechniques. Guest speaker Dr. Adam Saperstein will be talkingabout work ethic and making a good lasting impression. Navy Fe-deral Credit Union and Community Bank will also be there toteach teens about saving money.

Each teen that completes one orientation will receive a job ap-plication. They will be invited to attend MWR’s Job Fair on Tue-sday, June 5 from 3 p.m – 5 p.m in The Chart Room where theywill conduct speed interviews with MWR managers. Jobs will beavailable with the Fitness Centers, Aquatics, ITT, Marketing andChild Youth Programs.

Encourage your teen to take part in MWR’s Teen Summer HireProgram! For more information, contact School Liaison OfficerChris McKibbin at 624-3242.

Teens invade MWR for the summer!

Sigonella Animal Welfare Society (SAWS), the YouthComplex, Coalition of Sailors Against Destructive Deci-sions (CSADD) and Adolescent Substance Abuse Coun-seling Services (ASACS) are joining forces this summerin a unique service learning project in which teens andtweens will help the animals of Naval Air Station (NAS)Sigonella. With this project, students will apply their ado-lescent energy toward a proactive goal while making con-nections with peers, authority figures, and animals. Ouryouthful volunteers will gain experience in working andtraining with animals which will increase self esteem andempathy while reducing the risk of experimentation withdrugs and alcohol. Additionally, this project will provideyouths with experience with event planning and execu-tion of said events. This will give them the opportunityto learn more about organizing, marketing, public rela-tions, fund raising, and customer service—all wonderfulskills that will prove to be useful for them in their adult

life. All adolescents will be required to have a release si-gned by their sponsor and will be supervised by an adult.The youths will decide on which activities to use to pro-mote the public image for SAWS and animal welfare andhow best to help the animals in need at NAS Sigonella.Possible activities to be coordinated include dog walking,bake sales, SAWS adoption events, car washing, dog wa-shing, and making and placing collection cans around va-rious locations on base. One more goal for thestudents—a big one—is doing the educational groundwork to write a grant for a dog park for Sigonella. Lookfor signs and flyers about how to volunteer (through theYouth Complex) and when we will be meeting to planan event (at the Teen Center). If you have any questions,please contact SAWS at www.facebook.com/Sigonella.Animals, the Teen Center Director LillianChanning at [email protected], or ASACScounselor at [email protected].

Wondering how to keep your kids mentally stimulated and learningduring their break? Let the library help! To encourage kids toread we're opening a "reading nook" in the Commissary. Parents

can drop their kids off during designated hours with a book and volunteerswill hang out with them - or, if they are too young to read, volunteers willread to them. What we'd like to know is what days of the week and what hourswould be the most helpful to you parents? When do you most regularly shop?Please e-mail us your thoughts @ [email protected]. If you wouldbe willing to read to the younger kids, we'd love to hear that, too.

Project ArmorHelping the animals of Sigonella

BY ANN FORRESTSecretary, Homeschooling Support Group

Library provides summer activities for kids

Teens and tweens of Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella are participating in a service learning project, working and training animals.(Photo by Nikol Black)

BY CHELSEA HUMPHREYSigonella Animal Welfare Society

Battleship at Connections

Complete a list of “duties” found on the back of your ticket between9 pm to 11:30 pm on Friday before the premiere to be entered in a doorprize drawing.


GAMEFind the words!

Find the way!

AIRWOLF ALIAS BARETTABATMAN BONANZA BONESCHARMED DEXTER DINOTOPIAEMERGENCY ENTOURAGE ESPIONAGEFRIENDS GARGOYLES GATEKEEPERSGOOSEBUMPS GUNSMOKE +HEROES

HIGHLANDER HOUSE HUNTERICARLY JOURNEYMAN KOJAKLOST MACGYVER MAUDEPSYCH SCRUBSSEINFELDSERPICOSMALLVILLE TELETUBBIESTHUNDERBIRDS VEGAS WEEDS

One word television shows


Did you know?A "jiffy" is an actual unit of time

for 1/100th of a second.

Al Capone's business card said he wasa used furniture dealer.

Sudoku!

2009 SUZUKI GSX-R 1000 (K7) mo-torcycle, 11,000mi., 6.500 euro, callMajor Pugliese @ 3358407420.

2008 Ford Escape XLT. ExcellentCond, 76K Miles, Pwr windows, mir-rors, and locks. 6 disc cd changer,New Tires (March ‘12)$10k (BelowKBB) Will negotiate! Available mid -late June. Call Jim Fultz: 3383372960.

2007 Honda VTX1300 Motorcycle.12K miles, original owner, new wind-screen, new back tire, and severalspare parts. Garage kept and cov-ered. $5K OBO. Contact Don at 339-289-8823.

1999 BMW 318, 118 CV, 1800 cc en-gine, metallic grey, manual transmis-sion, all powered, ABS, airbags, AC,immobilizer. Very good condition.Asking 3, 000 euro. For more info callDante at 6245043.

2005 Renault Megane 134,000 km 6speed manual. 4 door. Dark blue.Diesel, A/C & heat. Radio/CD player.Asking $7,500 OBO. Pat: 624-1201 [email protected].

1997 Suzuki Marauder, custom 800cc black, (14.000 km) 5K euro, OBO,

Elsa at [email protected] Alfa Romeo Spider GTV 2000cc. grey, (139.999 km), 5K euro, OBO,Elsa at [email protected].

2000 Blue Ducati ST4 914cc. $2,000.Call Mason at 335.578.8124.

1993 Alfa 155, 1700 cc, green,(139.000 km) 5K euro, OBO, call Elsaat eringgenberg@ austin.rr.com.

2000 silver BMW 318i,4 doors, xenonfront lights, new brakes, a/c,airbags,17" wheels, alarm system.asking 4k euro (price negotiable) callTommy at 331-954-4486.

2007 Honda VTX1300 Motorcycle.12K Mi, new windscreen, back tire,and several spare parts. Garage keptand covered. $5000 OBO. ContactDon @ 339-289-8823.

1999 VW Golf, 200km, new battery,brakes, and oil change. $1750 obo.Contact Anthony at 3453461185 [email protected].

1999 BMW 318, 118 CV, 1800 cc en-gine, metallic grey, manual transmis-sion all powered, ABS, airbags, AC,immobilizer. Asking Euro 3,000. CallDante at 6245043.

1993 ALFA 155 1700 cc, green,

139.000 km, 5.000 euro. Contact [email protected].

2008 Ford Escape XLT, 76K Mi., Pwrwindows, mirrors, and locks. 6 disccd changer, New Tires $10k-will ne-gotiate! Jim Fultz-3383372960.

1997 Suzuki Marauder Custom 800cc, black, 14.000 km, 5,000 euro. [email protected].

1997 Alfa Romeo Spider GTV 2000 ccgrey, 139.999 km, 5,000 euro. [email protected].

Brown leather-like sofa, manufactu-re's tickets, $500. Wooden diningtable and four chairs (counterheight), $400. Call Jody between 3and 9 p.m. at 345-273-4045.

37' Sanyo wide color swivel flatscreen TV, 220V (European), FullHD/LCD/3 HDMI, 1080 P, w/ wirelessheadset system. Paid 700 Euro, asking500 Euro. Call Jose @ 3400646615 oremail [email protected] photos.

Ramulus & Ramus, 8 week old kit-tens, male, white with stripes, litter-

box trained and eating solid food,seems pretty content to get alongwith everyone, plan to go to the vetsoon.

Fidel & Phillipo, 3 month old pup-pies, male, black and brown, shouldbe fine with everyone but hasn'tbeen exposed to cats yet, they havebeen picking up on training quickly,plans to go to the vet soon.

Damon, 2 month old puppy,brown/tan (beautiful and interestingmarkings), dog, good with everyoneand very smart and picking up ontraining very quickly. Will go to thevet soon.

To volunteer, adopt or foster, visit fa-cebook.com/Sigonella.Animals orhttp://sigonellaanimalwelfareso-ciety.webs.com/

Chomper, 2 month old puppy, black,dog, good with children, people,and other dogs but is still a little toorough with cats. Current on shots,microchipped.

AUTOMOB I L E S

FOR S A L E

S AWS AN IMA L S



It begins innocuously enough. A civilian man simplymutters “Ready, go” and 17 blue-and-yellow-clad Sailorsdisperse in different directions, much like fire ants at apicnic. What seems like near hysteria is actually a wellrehearsed system of proficiency.

In minutes, a tent is erected and those 17 blue-and-yellow-clad Sailors are now donning chemically resistanthooded suits, filtered respirator packs and fitted facemasks. A wall of pre-ripped duct tape awaits these hoo-ded trainees, seemingly miles of it, all representative ofliquid permeable chem tape. With suits secure and oneeach properly duct taped with a complete seal to protectagainst fluid ingress, these 17 trainees are now one unit,running through a scenario that will ultimately save lives.

This is DECON training. That civilian man is Charlie Jensen. He represents

DECON, LLC, a company that is contracted throughBUMED and Navy Medicine East to train Sailors in pro-per chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear decon-tamination.

“Our goal here is to provide first receiver operationstraining,” Jensen said. “We teach them how to protectthemselves and how to protect the facility.”

During the two-day training, Sailors learn just howto protect both. Eight hours of classroom training andanother seven of practical application prepares them forreal-world scenarios involving Chemical, Biological, Ra-diological, Nuclear and Explosives (CBRNE). The cul-mination is timed training evolutions during thepractical application portion.

While they learn background and theory in the cla-ssroom, Sailors are forced to put their knowledge to thetest on Day Two. A complete set-up and tear-down isperformed with full decontamination procedures in bet-ween.

“Everything taught here is about mission readiness,”said HM1 Jean-Pierre Turnier, Leading Petty Officer for

DECON training. “It’s not a matter of if, it’s a matter ofwhen something occurs. We want to be prepared. Espe-cially with the type of enemies nowadays, we need to beready at all times and ensure 100 percent mission readi-ness.”

DECON training ensures Sailors know how to set upa “warm zone,” as Jensen calls it. It’s a place where anyaffected individuals can be processed from a “hot zone,”or infected zone, to a “cold zone,” a clean area.

“They’re taught to set up that warm zone,” Jensensaid, “and to process casualties through the warm zoneso they’re able to enter the [Military Treatment Facility]clean.”

The success of such a process can save lives, which iswhy Jensen lets no detail go unnoticed. For instance,each trainee is inspected after donning the mask and suitand before entering the warm zone to ensure it’s wornproperly.

It’s also why Jensen’s company returns to NAS Sigo-nella every six to 12 months to maintain a continuity oftraining.

“The DECON team’s continuous training and sup-port allows us to always be at the ready for any CBRNEevent,” said Lt. Jaime Lee, officer in charge of DECONtraining. “Knowledge of our program will give under-standing of the procedures necessary to decontaminatevictims, equipment and fellow responders. This is a teameffort and each individual on this team puts out 100 per-cent to be at the ready to save lives and ensure the safetyof our hospital and its personnel.”

Jensen, too, puts forth that same effort to get NAS Si-gonella ready. His company has been training individualsfor five years in decontamination procedures. Jensen him-self has been doing it for two. Needless to say, when hevisits NAS Sigonella from his office in Fort Gratiot, Mi-chigan, he brings with him a wealth of knowledge.

Well, that and a whole lot of duct tape.

BY HM3 (FMF) MATTHEW CLUTTERGuest Writer HM3 Matthew Clutter

During the week of April 30 –May 4, Sigonella MS/HS was visi-ted by a four-member team fromAdvanceED, a nationally recognizedorganization that is the global leaderin advancing education excellencethrough accreditation and schoolimprovement. The purpose and roleof the Quality Assurance Review isto determine the extent to which theschool meets the AdvancED stan-dards, assess the efficacy of theschool’s improvement efforts, eva-luate the effectiveness of theschool’s methods for quality assu-rance, provide high-quality feed-back with clear required actions andnext steps, and make an accredita-tion recommendation.

The team’s findings are dividedinto “Commendations” and “Requi-red Actions.” Sigonella MS/HS re-ceived nine commendations,including those for its commitmentto shared leadership, professionaldevelopment, collaboration, posi-tive school culture and climate, op-portunities for the community toparticipate in the school’s music anddrama programs, access to academicofferings, and creating an environ-ment by which students, parents,and staff are mutually supportiveand cooperative in support of theschool’s vision and expectations.The team also gave six required ac-tions that will be monitored for fu-ture compliance. These actionsinclude the establishment ofSMART goals, identifying and ex-panding effective practices that arepositively impacting student lear-

ning, initiating more after-school ac-tivities for middle school students,insuring the infrastructure supportsthe effective use of technology, esta-blishing initiatives that support pro-fessional development andcollaboration, and supporting verti-cal articulation from grades K-12.The school then is evaluated onseven standards and is given ratingsfor each standard which include “hi-ghly functional,” “operational,”“emerging,” or “not evident.” Sigo-nella MS/HS received “highly fun-ctional” ratings in two standards,

and “operational” in five standards. Sigonella MS/HS’s accredita-

tion will be renewed. Accreditationis designed to help educational in-stitutions boost their ongoing per-formance efforts for the benefit oftheir students. Accreditation mat-ters because our students deservethe highest level of educational ex-cellence possible. Congratulationsto the Sigonella MS/HS administra-tion, faculty, staff, students, parents,and community for continually stri-ving to provide the best educationpossible for our kids.

Sigonella MHS quality assurance review successBY DAVID BROWNSigonella Schools, Public Affairs

DECON training helps ensuremission readiness

From blue to clean:

Documents

May 25 issue of The Signature