The Signature, December 19, 2014

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Christ-mas lights décor, a wide-selection of catered dishes, live deejay and festive ambiance surrounded the Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella community

in the heart of NAS 1, Midtown, for the 2014 holiday party, Dec. 12.

Three hundred and eight service members, families, and friends gath-ered to celebrate the winter-time

holiday festivities with one another while dancing, eating, and enjoying entertainment that included oppor-tunities to win a prize.

“The Christmas party is so color-

ful and vibrant, that it helps me have an easier time dealing with my first ever Christmas away from home,” said Yeoman Seaman Apprentice Maria Barron, a prize-winner.

The holiday party committee raised more than $6,000 for food and gifts to be given away at random.

All throughout the night the mas-ter of ceremonies and party organ-izer, Navy Counselor 1st Class Gary Coumbe, kept the crowd on the edge of their seats by drawing names for prizes every 15 minutes.

“Our goal for the 2014 holiday party was to fundraise $2,500 and give away 12 gifts to the prize win-ners, but we actually raised more than $3,700 from bake sales, car wash and a golf tournament,” said Coumbe. “The fundraise events turned out so well, including ticket sales, that we were able to give away 35 gifts.”

“I’m having such a great time to-night and this is exactly what I want-ed,” said the proud winner of a tablet, Master-at-Arms 2nd Class Darlene Nu’usolia. “I wanted to buy this at the store yesterday but it was too expen-sive, so I am very happy and grateful.”

The grand prize of a $1,000 travel

Working at Sea

Rewarding Risk of

Maintaining Maritime Activity

PAGE 14PAGE 12

OutstandingService

Members

SIGNATURESIGONELLA, SICILY

December 19, 2014 cnic.navy.mil/sigonellaVol. 31 No. 48

THE

Sigonella's best of 2014

See "Christmas party" on Page 10

HAPPY HOLIDAYS! Due to the holiday period in Dec.,

The Signaturewill be on a two - week break after our Dec. 19 issue. Don't miss our next issue available on January 9. Stay up to date by visiting us on

the NAS Sigonella Facebook page.

BY mC3 RAmON GONAS Sigonella Public Affairs Staff

NAS Sigonella celebrates holidays with Midtown party

Naval Air Station Sigonella community members dance the "Cha-Cha Slide" during the 2014 Christmas party held at Midtown, Dec. 12. (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Ramon Go/Released)

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Two-Thousand Fourteen was a demanding, fast-paced, and ultimately a highly-successful year for the civilians and service members (representing all military branches) supporting the missions of the 24 commands stationed here. The good was actually great: more than 100 petty officers were advanced to include 17 chief petty officers; the community came together to help save two lives and clean up a city severely damaged by a bad storm; and grand openings of the NAS 2 Gym, and later on, the base galley, were a small sampling of the accomplishments made by this community. But the year contained moments of tragedy as well when we unexpectedly lost dear friends and shipmates. In honor of their memory, and to recap the highlights throughout the year, The Signature recaps our Top 10 stories from 2014, listed chronologically from when each took place. Before we get to the list, our staff would first like to express what an absolute privilege it has been to report all you have done to make Sigonella the special community it is.

1. NAS Sigonella loses one shipmate; one communi-ty icon – It may have been a great year overall, but 2014 began on a very sad note with the tragic loss of 23-year-old LSSN Janay Harris, who unexpectedly passed away in early February. Harris, a Southern California native, wor-ked in Base Dispatch, serving in Sicily 10 months befo-re leaving us. NAS Sigonella Commanding Officer Capt. Christopher Dennis remembered Janay in his Direct

Line that month, commenting how “she loved others and through her example was a servant to others around her, and in humility valued others above herself.” In Septem-ber, Sigonella was mourning once again, this time after the sudden loss of the well-known restaurateur, Umberto Sciacca, 41. Owner and originator of three local establi-shments – Mojito, Casale del Sole, and Umberto’s – Sciacca was known for his kindness and unrelenting work ethic. Former NAS Sigonella Emergency Operations Center manager Jeff Kinsman knew Sciacca since 1996, remem-bering him as “outgoing, gracious, and a good host who remembered everyone’s name.”

2. Hospital points the “Weigh” to Healthy – In March, US Naval Hospital Sigonella unveiled the Navy’s first-of-its-kind “Healthy Weigh” program aimed at helping overweight members not only lose poundage, but gain control of their lives. From full physicals, to consultations with the nutritionist, mental health, and a personal wellness-coach, this revolutionary 12-week program is a multi-disciplinary approach aimed at helping Sailors achieve much more than simply squeaking by another PFA cycle. “The focus of this program is not weight loss,” said “Healthy Weigh” developer Lt. Cmdr. Kimberly Broom. “The focus is making sustainable changes for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.”

3. NAS 2 Gym, Galley complete renovations – The pursuit to provide better quality of life for all community

members was well-expressed during two major “grand openings” this year. Following a ribbon-cutting ceremony, April 18, the NAS 2 gym opened its doors to the public for the first time in 10 months after a much-needed overhaul. The renovated fitness center – completed through much MWR and contractor labor – was updated with several new amenities to include: new cardio-vascular exercise equipment, improved air conditioning, enlarged workout areas, a new gym scoreboard, and energy-efficient lighting. On Nov. 12, a community picnic hosted by Ristorant Bella Etna underneath their new gazebo marked perhaps the most visibly noticeable improvement to the galley, but not the only. WiFi for patrons, and several large screen televisions with AFN programming had been in place prior to the gazebo unveiling while future plans include better lighting and updates to the serving line.

4. Sigonella Sailors move up the ranks – Thirty Sailors were promoted to third –, second –, or first-class petty officer May 28 during a frocking ceremony held near the NAS 2 fountain. Throughout the year 85 NAS Sigonella Sailors earned chevrons during the year’s two advancement cycles, symbolic of several promotion ceremonies carried out throughout installation tenant commands. The ultimate enlisted honor for 17 of Sigonella’s finest – promotion to the chief ’s mess – culminated during the chief ’s pinning ceremony, Sept. 16.

See "2014 in Review" on Page 17

BY NAS SIGONELLA pUBLIC AffAIRS STAff

Sigonella's "Top 10" stories from 2014

THE SIGNATUREpAGE 2 December 19, 2014 THE SIGNATURE pAGE 3December 19, 2014

RAGUSA, Italy - After a request to the Naval Air Station Sigonella Public Af-fairs Office from the lead ar-cheologist at the University of Catania Ancient Greek Archaeology department, Marines and Sailors from SPMAGTF Crisis Response-Africa helped excavate cave openings to an ancient bur-ial site in Parco Forestale Di Calaforno (Park Forestry of Calaforno) in Ragusa, Sicily, Dec. 12.

The Parco Forestale Di Calaforno was originally discovered in 1974, but due to lack of resources was not explored. Professor Piertro Militello, from the Univer-sity of Catania, and his team of students have been exca-vating the burial site since 2013 and hypothesized that it was a burial site. Once they started exploring they found various skeletons and bones, confirming that it was a cem-etery potentially dating back thousands of years, poten-tially to 2200 BC.

“The site is very impor-tant for two reasons; first because a burial site like this one is ancient, it’s unique, this is the only one in Sicily,” said Militello. “Number two is because the burial site is part of a park. A place where you have deer and other ani-mals that are not easy to find in the city, the combination of those two elements make this a unique place.”

Under the supervision of the archeologists, the group of Marines and Sailors spent five hours digging with pick-axes and shovels, carrying rocks, and buckets full of dirt from underground caves. Those in the caves worked crouched over in cramped spaces, relying on flashlights to see their workspace. The service members on the out-side formed lines and passed buckets of dirt and rocks from the caves to designated areas where archeological students, Marines, and Sail-ors examined the contents for additional artifacts.

“It was a great experi-ence getting to work at such a historic place,” said Lance Cpl. Dylan Fosler, a War-ren, Ill., native and Marine with SPMAGTF CR-AF. “I was able to be part of a small team of Americans working

at one of the oldest burial sites in Sicily … I think that’s pretty awesome.”

Towards the end of the day the group took a break to enjoy a meal put on by the Sigonella Morale Wel-fare and Recreation depart-ment. They also were able to explore the park and see the inner workings of an antique watermill.

Militello said that the plan for Parco Forestale Di Calaforno is to eventually open it for tourism, so fami-

lies can visit the park and walk through the caverns. He also expressed his thanks to the Marines and Sailors of SPMAGTF CR-AF on behalf of the Archaeological Her-itage Office for their hard work.

The Marines and Sailors of SPMAGTF-CR-AF strive to be good shepherds in their local communities, all while conducting theater security cooperation and military-to-military engagements with partner nations in Africa.

What makes the holidays special? Most agree it’s the time for lasting memories with loved ones and time-honored traditions. Yet here, in Sigonella, so many community members are far from their families. In fact, many Sig' Citizens are single service members or deployed, and these women and men will answer our nation’s call by standing watch and continuing operations during the holidays. As base commander, a husband, father, and mostly, a grateful American, my heart wants for our watch-standers and operators and for how they will mark this holiday season separated from their families back home.

And then I am moved when I receive report after report of how kind and generous our community is. Countless thousands of hours served and dollars given year after year helping those in need. You encourage one another, you offer helping hands, and you simply demonstrate kindness and a cheerful spirit somehow unique to this base community. I am amazed by the compassion and consideration that is Sigonella. Regardless of uniform, affiliation, gender, creed, or nationality, Sigonella is a community like no other place I have lived.

Just this week, a young father of two was at our Navy Exchange to purchase a Christmas tree for his family. Stopping to speak with a colleague, he quietly voiced his frustration because all the less-expensive trees were gone and he had to decide whether or not to spend $130 for a live tree - much more than he had budgeted. Thinking about how disappointed his kids would be should he return empty-handed, he told the acquaintance he was compelled to make the steep purchase. At the register, he was confused and then overcome when the cashier told him Santa Clause bought the tree for him. While his

children shouted excitedly at the sight of him hoisting the dark green pine atop the car, tears of joy ran down the cheeks of his wife as he stood in the NEX parking lot, a bit shocked, retelling the act of kindness. In Sigonella, this holiday spirit happens all the time.

But this generous spirit doesn't just happen; it is intentionally kindled in your hearts. People like ABH2 Gabriel Vielma, a Base Dispatch supervisor from Cancun, Mexico explained that despite working on Christmas Day, he is grateful to spend the special day with new family members ABH2 Edmond, and ABHAN Gomez. While that trio stands the “yuletide watch,” ET1 Rodger Dormeil, a technician at Naval Radio Transmitter Facility-Niscemi, and a Florida native with a keen recollection for his mother’s holiday Haitian cooking, volunteered to work the Christmas and New Year’s shifts so his colleagues with family here may enjoy that time at home.

Similarly, our Global Hawk, Predator, VP-4, VR and Special Marine Air Ground Task Force Marine brothers and sisters are serving here on multi-month rotations, and will be spending the holidays away from family. And while they’ve expressed although the distance from home is not easy, it does offer an opportunity to forge stronger bonds within. One SPMAGTF member, GySgt. Lance Robinson, said he is using his memories of annual Christmas Eve family barbecues from his beloved home in New Orleans, and will, along with other senior NCOs, give fellow Marines a special Christmas Day brunch. In this group will be 1stLt. Maida Kalic, SPMAGTF's public affairs officer whose first Christmas experience was at the Naval Academy with her sponsor family a few years ago. A native of Brcko, Bosnia, Kalic grew up in an Islamic community and

doesn't celebrate Christmas. But this year, much like with her sponsor family, she said she looks forward to spending time with Marines who’ve become “family.”

So despite the thousands of miles from the places where your holiday traditions became familiar; and the distance from those who made them so unique, you continue to remind me what's true about spending the holidays here: they're special because they are celebrated amongst members of the tight-knit tapestry we’ve all come to know as Sigonella.

For the shining examples mentioned, and for the too many more to include in this column, I want to thank you for giving me so many reasons to celebrate this season. Your caring, hard work, and dedication – qualities you demonstrate every day – make NAS Sigonella an exceptional and fulfilling place to live and work. I apologize for being longwinded, but want each of you to know what an honor it is to live and serve as part of Famiglia Sigonella.

Sharyn and I, along with the entire Dennis family, send our warmest wishes for a peaceful and memorable holiday season.

Happy Holidays Sigonella!

DRIV

E SA

FELY

SIGO

NELL

A DRIVE SAFELY

SIGONELLA

NASSIG WORSHIP SERVICESROMAN CATHOLICSunday■ 9 a.m. Catholic Mass (naS 1 Chapel)

TuESday, WEdnESday & FRIday■ 11:30 a.m. Catholic Mass (naS 2 Chapel)Sacraments of Reconciliation/Penance precede each Mass

FRIday■ 11:30 a.m. Catholic Mass (naS 1 Chapel)

PROTESTANT (NAS 1 CHAPEL)SaTuRday■ 6:30 p.m. Contemporary Worship Services

Sunday■ 12 p.m. Sunday School■ 11 a.m. Traditional Worship

LATTER-DAY SAINTS Sunday at 1:30 p.m. (naS 1 Chapel)Contact: [email protected] or 624-9049

JEWISH SHABBAT LAY SERVICEFRIday at 5:30 p.m. (naS 1 Chapel)

NIGHT STUDY■ Italian Class Tuesday at 7 p.m (Classroom at naS 1 Chapel) ■ aa Meetings: MOnday at 5:30 p.m. (naS 1 Chapel) sec-ond deck; Thursday at 7 p.m. (naS 2 Chapel)■ Glee Club Tuesday at 12 p.m. (naS 1 Chapel) ■ awana Club Tuesday at 4:45 p.m (naS 1 Chapel)

HOLIDAY WORSHIP SCHEDULE

CATHOLIC:Catholic Christmas Eve Mass at 5 p.m. at the naS 1 ChapelCatholic Midnight Mass at naS 1 Chapel Christmas Eve, Caroling starts at 11:30 p.m.Catholic Mass on Christmas day at 11 a.m. at naS 2 Chapel

PROTESTANT: Christmas Cantata at 6:30 p.m.at the naS1 Chapel Christmas Eve Protestant Christmas Eve service at 7 p.m. at the naS 1 Chapel

Chapel Offices: naS I 095-56-3975, naS II 095-86-9049, dSn: 624-3975, CHAPLAIN DUTY: 335-831-4493 RP DUTY: 335-786-1950naS Sigonella Religious Ministries department Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/navalairStationSigonellaChapel

Commanding Officer Capt. Chris DennisDirect Line

THE SIGNATUREU.S. NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLACommanding OfficerCapt. Chris DennisExecutive OfficerCmdr. Charles G. McKinney IICommand Master ChiefCMDCM Mike Kaszubowski

EDITORIAL

Public Affairs Officer Lt. Paul [email protected]

EditorM. Todd [email protected]

Community Relations Officer Dott. Alberto [email protected]

PAO Staff Writers \ PhotographersMC1 Tony D. [email protected]

MC3 Ramon [email protected]

CONTACT USNaval Air Station Sigonella, [email protected] 624-5440; 095-86-5440PSC 812 Box 7, FPO, AE 09627-0001

PUBLISHERStampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher,Naval Support ActivityCapodichino (Naples), [email protected]. 081-568-7884Fax 081-568-7887

This civilian enterprise (CE) newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services overseas. Contents of The Signature are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense (DoD), or the U.S. Navy. The appearance of advertising in this newspaper, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the DoD or Stampa Generale S.r.l., of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factorof the purchaser, user or patron. A confirmed violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected.

The Signature is published weekly by Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity, Capodichino (Naples), Italy. Tel. 081-568-7884. Fax 081-568-7887. E-mail: [email protected].

Editorial submissions are welcomed from all Naval Air Station Sigonella departments, divisions and tenant commands. Editorial submissions should be sent to the Public Affairs Office via [email protected], guard mail stop #68 or hand-delivered to our office no later than the close of business on the Fri-day proceeding the expected publication date. All articles submitted by non-staff members will be considered contributing writers.

The Signature will not publish anyanonymous articles. All advertisements in this publication are the property of Stampa Generale S.r.l. Any reproduction of advertisements in The Signature is unauthorized without the written consent of the publisher.

cnic.navy.mil/sigonella

Active duty Roth TSP deductions need to be updated by Jan. 31

Marines and Sailors assist local archeologists in excavation project

An upcoming change in MyPay requires users to designate Roth contributions as a percentage of your pay, instead of a dollar amount. If you don’t comply with the change, the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) will not be able to process your Roth contributions until you make the update. Active duty members of the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) are encouraged to log into MyPay and click on the section called "Traditional TSP and Roth TSP.” In the "Contribution from Roth TSP" section, enter your desired percentage of your pay and click "save." For questions or additional information, contact your command financial specialist or the FFSC.

BY 1ST LT. mAIDA kALIC AND CpL. SHAwN vALOSINU.S. Marine Corps Forces Europe and Africa

Petty Officer 3rd Class Derek Nappi empties a bucket full of dirt into the back of a trailer to be sifted for artifacts at the ancient burial site Parco Forestale Di Calaforno in Ragusa, Sicily, Dec. 12. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Shawn Valosin)


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

December 2014January 2015

Friday19

Arrivederci Class8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

&Sig Safe

7:45 a.m. - 4 p.m.FFSC

Sunset Horseback Ride in Motta Sant'Anastasia

3 - 7 p.m.Outdoor Recreation

Saturday20Mountain Bike Ronza Park

with Agriturismo Lunch7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Outdoor Rec

Palermo6:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.

ITT

Siracusa11 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.

NAS 2

Sunday21Caltagirone Nativity Scene

and Ceramics Shopping9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

ITT

Monday22

Intercultural Relations8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

FFSC

Tuesday23


&Infant/Toddler Playgroup

9 - 10 a.m.FFSC

Free Guitar Lessons6 p.m.Take 5

Wednesday24


FFSC

Christmas Movie Marathon11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Take 5

Thursday25

Christmas Dinner 5:30 p.m.

Take 5

26Nativity Scene in the Province of Ragusa3 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.

NAS 2

Paintball in Motta12-18 years old9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Youth Complex

27Day Spa at Taormina’s

Hotel Olimpo7:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

NAS 2

28Cefalú & Castelbuono

(Castle) 7:30 a.m. - 8 p.m.

NAS 2

Dominoes Game Night6 p.m.Take 5

29Missoula Children's

Theater Auditions for RAPUNZEL

9:45 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Knights Hall

Borgo Cooking Class & Lunch

9 a.m. - 5 p.m.Youth Complex

30Infant/Toddler Playgroup

9 - 10 a.m.FFSC

Ropes Course & Archery9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Youth Complex

31Ice Skating & Shopping at

Centro Sicilia Mall 9 a.m.

Youth Complex

Catania History and “Ciao” to 2014!

8 a.m. - 4 p.m.NAS 2

1 2 3

Orange Harvesting & Borgo Antico Agriturismo Lunch

8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.NAS 2

Kelly Bell Band9 p.m.

Jox Pub

4

FFSC: x4291ITT : x4777, x4396

Liberty/Connections/Take 5: x4246, x5602Outdoor Rec: x4777, x4396 Fitness: x4483, x5243

Midtown 2 Theaters: x4248American 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!

IMPORTANT EXTENSIONS:

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

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

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

Commanding Officer's Suggestion Box

Comment regarding Theater National Anthem:Before each movie the National Anthem is played I love that we are able to stand and show our patriotism. Many of the wonderful things that our Sailors do on a daily basis are highlighted throughout the song. The problem is that there are only MEN highlighted throughout the two-minute anthem. There are currently 62,000 women serving in the U.S. Navy, many of whom serve here at NAS Sigonella. Can we create a different version here to showcase all the extraordinary accomplishments that both the men AND women do within the U.S. Navy?

Response: Thank you for pointing out this clear flaw and misrepresentation. Our AFN station manager, Jack Martin, has already produced a new "balanced" National Anthem video product for our local community to honor the many faces, uniforms, and genders whom deserve credit for their service. You may have noticed that the new montage is currently playing in our base theaters. Jack and our AFN team will continue to refresh the new National Anthem video so we may capture a better representation of women as well as the many rates and faces that comprise our armed forces.

Comment regarding NEX beer selectionI would like to recommend that our NEX carry Stella Artois beer. It is growing in popularity in the U.S. and I believe it would be a popular choice here in Sigonella.

Response:Great suggestion! I've since spoken to the NEX Manager who "hopped" to it and reached out to our beer distributor in Germany to bring our two NEX locations a new assortment of brews. The below list is identical to the one you may have seen on our NAS Sigonella Facebook page. If you haven't seen that post, here's the deal: We are polling our beer-drinking patrons to choose a maximum of five beers from the list. Using your feedback, as well as whether or not the top choices are available from the distributor, the NEX will add new selections to the community with the possibility of bringing aboard more varieties at a later date. One caveat worth mentioning: We expect the same people who vote for the new arrivals to likewise purchase the beer after it is made available at the NEX Main Store and Mini-Mart. If the NEX is left with the new varieties on its shelves, they will promptly discontinue this new method. To submit your choices (maximum of FIVE), send your e-mail to our NEX Manager, Julie Herring, at: [email protected]. Please include in your subject line "Beer Vote" and rank the order you want. Thanks again for your recommendation. I hope that this new system is successful, and continue to encourage all members to drink responsibly!

January_2015

Beck's BeerBecks Blue Alcohol FreeBeck's PilsBelgian KriekBenediktiner WeissbierBitburgerBitburger PilsBudweiser BudvarBudweiser Budvar Alcohol FreeBudweiser Budvar DarkBulldog English Strong AleBulmers Original CiderBulmers Pear CiderCarlingCarlsberg ElephantCarlsberg Green LabelCharles Quint Golden BlondCharles Quint Ruby RedCharles V GoldCharles V RubyChimay Gran Reserve Chimay Premier RedCrabbies Ginger BeerDesperadosDuvel BierErdinger Weissbier Alcohol Free

Erdinger Wheat BeerFostersGrolsch SwingtopGuiness Beer Hacker Pschorr Munich Lager GoldHacker Pschorr Sling Cap Hacker Pschorr WiessenHolsten PremiumJohn SmithsJudas BeerKonig PilsenerKrombacher PilsKronenbourg 1664Kronenbourg BeerKronenbourg R/WKwakLicher PremiumMalheur 10 PercentMalheur 12 Percent Marstons Old Empire IpaMystic Cherry BeerMystic Peach BeerNewcastle Brown AleOhara Curim GoldOhara Irish RedOhara Irish StoutOmmegangPaulaner Dunkel Weiss

Paulaner Hefe-WeissPaulaner Hefe-Weissbier Alcohol FreePaulaner Hefe-Weissbier DunkelPaulaner Hefe-Weissbier HellPaulaner Lemon WeissPaulaner OriginalPaulaner Original MunchnerPaulaner SalvadorPeroni Nastro AzzurroPilsner UrquellRingnes PilsenerSlalomscottish Strong LagerSolStella ArtoisTheakstones LightfootTheakstones PeculierTheakstones XpTiger BeerTongerlo Brown AleTongerlo PriorTongerlo PriorWarsteiner Premium Wernesgrüner Pils

Need an appointment at the hospital? Call DSN

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

M-F: 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

For non-emergent medical questions that arise over the weekend, holidays, or after office

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

at the hospital or 335-578-8150

if you are normally seen at the Flight Line Clinic.


Italian Christmas treats to tempt taste buds If you want to satisfy your sweet

tooth and live Italian Christmas tradi-tions to the full, make sure you taste the most popular Italian and Sicilian Christmas sweets.

“Buccellato” (from the Latin word Buccellatum that means bread in mor-sels) or “Cucciddatu” (as it is called in Sicilian), is among the most popular cakes that are prepared during this holiday season. It is a short crust ring shaped cake filled with dried fruits, or-ange peels, plain chocolate, honey and spices and sprinkled with pistachio.

Buccellato also includes a mignon version called “Buccellatino” that is sprinkled with sugar and covered with a white frosting. Other traditional cakes include “Mustazzoli” (sweets made from majorca flour and filled with cooked wine mixed with al-monds, pine-seeds and nuts), “ravioli” (fritters filled with sweetened ricotta) and crispelle (rice fritters covered with honey).

Other traditional Sicilian sweets include “Cedrata” and “Aranciata,” two mouthwatering specialties made with orange or cedar peel cooked with honey, vanilla and cinnamon.

Besides the traditional Buccellato, the classic Italian Christmas cakes such as “Panettone,” “Pandoro” and “Torrone” are also very popular in Sic-ily.

As many stories say, the “Panet-tone” was first prepared in Milan in the 15th century at the bakery of Tony, a grumpy man who used to boss both his workers and his beautiful daughter Adalgisa. Since Tony had such a bad temper, Ughetto, one of his assistants, was afraid to ask him the permission to marry his daughter with whom he was in love. Thus, he decided to im-press Tony by baking a special cake. Ughetto worked round the clock un-til he created special bread containing flour, sugar, candied fruits and raisins. Soon this cake became very popular and Tony made a lot of good bargains as everybody in Milan asked for “Pan di Tony” (in Italian, Tony’s bread) which was later named as “Panettone.”

In the wake of this popularity, Tony decided to reward his employee by giving him permission to marry Adal-

gisa. Another tradition says that Panet-tone was served for the first time at the table of Ludovico Sforza, called “The Moor,” the Duke of Milan (1494–99) during a lavish banquet as a replace-ment of a cake baked by the Leading Chef. Since that cake unfortunately wilted, Tony, a bold scullery boy, pre-pared another one by hastily mixing flour, eggs, butter, sugar and candied fruits to save the chef ’s reputation. As the fellow guests tasted this new cake, they found it delicious. Thus, the duke of Milan decided to name it after Tony.

Today, in addition to the tradition-al candied fruits and raisin fillings, Panettone is enriched with chocolate drops, frosting, almonds and fruit creams.

According to legend, “Pandoro,” (in Italian, “bread of gold”) was named so because of the delicate yellow color of the dough as eggs are also mixed with the other ingredients. It seems to be originated in Verona, an elegant Re-naissance city located in the north of Italy that was also chosen as a setting by Shakespeare for his masterpiece “Romeo and Juliet.”

Yet another tale says Pandoro was first prepared in Venice in the 16th century, when this maritime republic was wealthy and powerful. Chroni-cles of the time tell that Pandoro was presented at the tables of the Venetian aristocrats all covered with gold leaves.

According to other historians, Pandoro was baked for the first time by Austrian Em-pire’s pastry chefs of the Royal House of Vienna who named it "The Bread of Vienna.”

Today, Pandoro is enriched with fruit cream filling and frost-ing such as lemon or orange and chocolate. “Torrone” or nougat is made with sugar, honey, egg, whites, al-monds and hazelnuts. It was first prepared for the wedding ban-quet of Bianca Ma-

ria Visconti and the duke of Milan, Francesco Sforza that took place in Cremona in 1441. The chefs shaped the Torrone as the 13th century tower, which still flanks Cremona’s cathedral, because it was included in bride’s dow-ry. The tower was named “Torrione” (in Italian, big tower), so the dessert

was given the name “Torrone.” Histor-ic sources say the guests of the wed-ding banquet, who came from every part of Italy and Europe, were so im-pressed by the savory taste of Torrone that they praised its delicacy as they went back home earning the Torrone a worldwide reputation.

Panettone, a tall-dome shaped cake filled with candied fruit which was first prepared by accident in Milan in the 15th century is one of the most popular Italian Christmas cakes.

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (NNS) -- The U.S. Navy completed tests on the GhostSwimmer unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story (JEBLC-FS), Dec. 11.

GhostSwimmer is the latest in a series of science-fiction-turned-reality projects developed by the chief of naval operations' Rapid Innovation Cell (CRIC) project, Silent NEMO.

Silent NEMO is an experiment that explores the possible uses for biomimetic, unmanned underwater vehicles in the fleet.

Over the past several weeks, Boston Engineering's tuna-sized device has been gathering data at JEBLC-FS on tides, varied currents, wakes, and weather conditions for the development of future tasks.

"GhostSwimmer will allow the Navy to have success during more types of missions while keeping divers and Sailors safe," said Michael Rufo, director of Boston Engineering's Advanced Systems Group.

The GhostSwimmer was developed to resemble the shape and mimic the swimming style of a large fish. At a length of approximately 5 feet and a weight of nearly 100 pounds, the GhostSwimmer vehicle can operate in water depths ranging from 10 inches to 300 feet.

"It swims just like a fish does by oscillating its tail fin back and forth," said Rufo. "The unit is a combination of unmanned systems engineering and unique propulsion and control capabilities."

Its bio-mimicry provides additional security during low visibility intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) missions and friendly hull inspections, while quieter than propeller driven craft of the same size, according to Navy Warfare Development Command (NWDC).

The robot is capable of operating autonomously for extended periods of time due to its long-lasting battery, but it can also be controlled via laptop with a 500-foot tether. The tether is long enough to transmit

information while inspecting a ship's hull, for example, but if operating independently (without a tether) the robot will have to periodically be brought to the surface to download its data.

"This project and others that we are working on at the CRIC are important because we are harnessing the brainpower and talents of junior Sailors," said Capt. Jim Loper, department head for Concepts and Innovation, NWDC. "The opportunity for a young Sailor who has a good idea to get that idea heard, and to get it turned into action, is greater [now] than any other time in our Navy's history."

The CRIC was established in 2012 to provide junior leaders with an opportunity to identify and rapidly field emerging technologies that address the

Navy's most pressing challenges and aims to find ways to quickly employ them in the fleet.

"Our mantra is 'you have permission to be creative.' We want our people to go out there and dream big dreams and put them into action," said Loper. "We want to see projects like this replicated throughout the fleet. The fusion of the deckplate brainpower with support of the most senior leadership in the Navy is going to keep us moving forward throughout the 21st century."

For more information on the CRIC, visit www.facebook.com/NavyCRIC.

For more news from Navy Public Affairs Support Element, East, visitwww.navy.mil/local/pacennorfolk/.

U.S. Navy HEADLINESNavy tests new Unmanned Underwater Vehicle at JEBLC-FSBY mC3 EDwARD GUTTIERREz IIINavy Public Affairs Support Element East

The "GhostSwimmer" vehicle, developed by the Chief of Naval Operations Rapid Innovation Cell project Silent NEMO, undergoes testing at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek - Fort Story. Project Silent NEMO is an experiment which explores the possible uses for a biomimetic device developed by the Office of Naval Research. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Edward Guttierrez III/Released)


The holidays are a time for us to gather with family and friends and celebrate. For better or worse, with celebration comes food. If you have been working very hard at eating healthy, losing or main-taining your weight, this may be a difficult time for you. The last thing we want to do is over-indulge in all the delicious food that surrounds us during the holiday season. What are some things you can do to avoid over-eating and sabotaging all your hard work?

Prepare Yourself Before the Party - One of the biggest mistakes made before heading to a party is skipping meals and arriving hun-gry. By eating a light, healthy snack before leaving your own house, you can set yourself up to make better choices. Try a low-fat yogurt, fresh fruit, or a small bowl of whole-grain cereal with skim milk.

Bring a Healthy Holiday Food - If you are hosting the party, you have control of the ingredients that are added to the favorite holiday recipes - but as a guest, it is not as easy. However, just because you are a guest does not mean you cannot offer to bring a healthy, low-fat dish to add to the selection. Most hosts will welcome an additional dish, and the other guests may enjoy having a healthier option to choose. Consider a simple dish like roasted string beans, or if you offer to bring dessert, consider a pumpkin pie without the crust or baked apples.

Be Mindful During the Party - The first thing you should do is re-member what the celebration is about. Your mind should be focused on enjoying the time with your family and friends. During mealtime, fill your plate up mostly with vegetables. Try not to over-indulge, but don't feel as if you must avoid any item. Choose unhealthy food in smaller portions, eat slowly, and savor every bite.

Avoid drinking beverages high in sugar and calories; or at least limit your intake to a single drink. Alcohol adds extra unwanted calo-ries, and if too much is consumed, it lowers inhibitions, which can lead to overeating. Try consuming water with a lemon or lime, skim milk, or diet / sugar-free beverages.

One great way to avoid snacking throughout the party is to plan fun activities to participate in with other guests, such as games or making crafts. If it is available, set up a tournament with a gaming system that is interactive. That is a great way to burn some calories and avoid the buffet of snacks sitting out on the counter or table.

Keep Moving - This time of the year should be enjoyable. How-ever, you need to keep physically active, maybe now more than ever. Physical activity reduces stress and gives us more energy. Try fitting in a workout before the party because, more likely than not, you will be tired from all the celebrating afterwards. During the party, go on a brisk walk with some of the other guests or, if there are children around, toss a ball outside. This can give you a burst of energy and a chance to catch up.

If you like participating in races, sign yourself up for a seasonal 5K run/walk or some other fitness event that will keep you focused and motivated to stay active.

Remember: The holidays are for celebrating with family and friends. If you must splurge one, two, or even three days during the holiday season, then that really is not going to ruin all of your hard work. It takes an extra 500 calories each day, or 3,500 calories a week, to gain a pound. All the extra snacking can really add up, but you can easily pass up all the treats in the office and keep goodies out of your own home. If you do this, you can feel good allowing yourself to enjoy the foods you look forward to every year.

Four ways to eat healthy during the holiday seasonBY AmY REIDENBACHU.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella


voucher went to Mass Communication Specialist 1st Tony Curtis. “I’m so ex-cited! I’m going to use this on a trip to Paris with my wife,” he said. Between gift drawings, Chief Warrant Officer 2 Ronan Basat, NAS Sigonella food service of-ficer and the deejay for the party, kept the music going for the crowd on the dance floor.

“The holiday ball committee started planning for this event in early October with three weekly meetings and spent an additional 10 hours a week on their roles for the party,” said Coumbe. “As the party approached, the holiday ball commit-tee spent more and more time with preparation that led a total of more than 100 hours of work.”

During closing remarks, NAS Sigonella Commanding Officer Capt. Christo-pher Dennis gave thanks to everyone who came to the party but even more so to those who made it all happen. “I want to give praise to the organizations that made this night possible: the holiday ball committee, first class petty officer association, junior enlisted association, wardroom, Bank of America, NAS Sigonella galley, and Navy Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps. You all did a wonderful job.”

Continued from Page 1

KAISERSLAUTERN, Germany - University of Maryland University College Europe (UMUC Europe) recently announced registration for Spring 2015's Session 1. On-site and online courses start Jan. 12, with registration open until Jan. 7 for online classes, Jan. 11 for hybrid, and the day each on-site class begins. Students are encouraged to register early. Military tuition assistance deadlines may be earlier than UMUC registration deadlines. View thousands of classes taking place online and on military bases throughout Europe and the Middle East at www.europe.umuc.edu.

To kick off the New Year, UMUC Europe is excited to offer $150 Military Book Awards for active duty servicemembers (all ranks). This special scholarship helps servicemembers save on textbooks for upcoming classes. Applications can be completed online within minutes (no FAFSA required) at www.europe.umuc.edu/bookaward.

For more information on registration and scholarships, contact a local UMUC Europe field representative, visit www.europe.umuc.edu, or call CIV +49-(0)631-534-800.

Get updates from UMUC Europe on Twitter and Facebook at www.twitter.com/UMUCEurope and www.facebook.com/UMUCEurope.

UMUC Europe begins classes Jan. 12, offers $150 book award for active dutyfROm UNIvERSITY Of mARYLAND UNIvERSITY COLLEGE EUROpE


UT1(SCW) Daniel GoodwinCommand: Public Works Department Sigonella

Hometown: Daytona Beach, FL "UT1 Goodwin is the type of Seabee who listens to others, but makes up his own mind. He consistently learns from the past, and focuses on the future while expecting the best from others and himself. He strives toward leaving the world better than he found it." -Cmdr. Deanna Carpenter, Department Head, Public Works Department Sigonella

GM1(EXW) Billy HawkinsCommand: Navy Munitions Command Detachment Sigonella Hometown: Wilkesboro, NC"GM1's bilitary bearing and personal demeanor are unsurpassed, and have fostered a positive environment for unlimited professional growth for subordinates. His unique ability to identify deficiencies and judiciously place measures to resolve them has been the cornerstone of the detachment's success." -Lt. Cmdr. Travis Scott, Officer in Charge, NMC DET SIG

YN1(EXW) Roman S. ClarkCommand: Defense Courier Station Sigonella

Hometown: Detroit, MI"YN1 Clark is a model leader, husband, and Sailor! He understands and executes above his pay grade! He is a humble leader of joint troops, a steadfast community/command volunteer, and a forward leaning leader. He is thorough, intelligent and efficient! His attention to detail and care for troops is an inspiration to emulate!" -Chief Petty Officer Clifton W. Kuykendall, Superintendent, Defense Courier Station Sigonella

SSgt Jonathan O. McKnightCommand: Detachment 2, Global HawkHometown: Baton Rouge, LA"SSgt McKnight epitomizes the Air Force Core Values and demands unwavering integrity and excellence from everyone with whom he comes in contact. His devotion led to his selection as Air Combat Command’s Security Forces Flight Level NCO of the Year." -Lt. Col. Brendan L. Halloran, Commander, Detachment 2

ET1(IDW/SW) Matthew P. Orlowski Command: Naval Telecommunication Station, SicilyHometown: Utica, NY"ET1 Orlowski demonstrated exceptional motivation and professionalism as N-9's Department LPO. He expertly led a team in the safety, security, and operations of a remote base which provides mission critical LF and HF broadcasts to U.S. and NATO operational units in 6th Fleet." -Chief Petty Officer Raymond Cabral, Senior Enlisted Leader, NCTS, Sicily

AWO1(NAC/AW) Robert A. HallCommand: Commander Task Force 67

Hometown: Columbus, GA"AWO1 Hall is an exceptional Sailor because he owns and excels in everything he attempts completely independent of accolades or expected recognition. He works diligently and intelligently for the nation and Navy because for him it is naturally inherent." -Capt. Bryan Durkee, Commodore, CTF 67

MR1(SW) Stanley R. Peters IICommand: AIMD, SigonellaHometown: Troy, AL"MR1 Peters excels in every facet possible; his leadership is exceptionally impeccable, his motivation is contagious, and he exhibits amazing acts of selflessness for his Sailors, Navy, and country. He is undeniably inspirational to all who serve." -Master Chief Petty Officer Daniel Fernandez, AIMD Sigonella

PS1(AW) Jeni R. GrayCommand: Personnel Support Detachment (PSD) Sigonella

Hometown: Jacksonville, FL"PS1 Gray is a role-model Sailor that every junior Sailor should emulate! Her leadership and professionalism skills are superior. Simply put, she is a Leading Petty Officer that knows how to lead and is results-driven." -Lt. j.g. Bill Garcia, Officer-in-Charge, PSD Sigonella

AM1(AW) James WebbCommand: Patrol Squadron FOURHometown: Kailua, HI"A devoted husband and father, AM1 Webb is a selfless Sailor who puts others above himself and strives to make those around him better, regardless of rank or rate. I challenge you to find a more complete Naval professional and devoted on and off duty leader." -Cmdr. Eric Hanks, Commanding Officer, Patrol Squadron FOUR

ET1(SW/AW) Justine Pennel Command: Naval Air Station Sigonella

Hometown: Denver, CO"ET1 Pennel reported onboard in February of 2014. From the moment she arrived she quickly established herself as a go-getter and solid leader. She was hand selected to become the Operations Department ADMIN LPO. Her customer service, determination, and professionalism contributed to her selection as NAS Sigonella Sailor of the Year for 2014." -Chief Petty Officer Carlos Figueroa, NAS Sigonella Operations Department LCPO

2014 Best of the YearThe Signature salutes Sailors and Airman from commands aboard NAS Sigonella. Congratulations to all of the this year's winners!

HM1(FMF) Ian HarrisCommand: U.S. Naval Hospital SigonellaHometown: Peoria, AZ"HM1 Harris' administrative skills, information systems expertise, and instructor abilities truly and positively impacted the mission, and the professional development of his fellow Sailors. He consistently set the standard for others to emulate, which culminated in his selection." -Capt. William R.K. Davidson, Commanding Officer, USNH Sigonella


MEDITERRANEAN SEA – Military Sealift Command (MSC) fleet replenishment oiler USNS Leroy Grumman (T-AO 195) departed the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations Dec. 12 after spending more than five months as the Mediterranean Sea duty oiler; the sole platform responsible for the replenishment of fuel, cargo and store to U.S. and partner-nation ships in the Mediterranean Sea.

"We support all of the U.S. and NATO ships that operate here," said Capt. David Murrin, the ship's civil service master. "We support these ships through replenishments-at-sea, which includes connected replenishments for the transfer of fuel; vertical replenishment involving the transfer of cargo via helicopter; and the transfer of personnel and mail.”

Throughout the course of one weekend alone, the ship's crew transferred more than 800,000 gallons of fuel to seven ships. Although operations like this are the regular drumbeat for Grumman’s crew, safety remains the number one priority. Former U.S. Navy boatswain’s mate Robert Melendez, who has worked for MSC as a civil service mariner boatswain’s mate for the past 15 years, knows the hazards involved and the importance of being prepared should an emergency arise.

"I've seen a lot of stuff happen and it can happen quickly,” said Melendez with a snap of his fingers. "With this type of job, and especially with my work as a boatswain’s mate, you’ve got to be quick on your feet. There's no time for much thought, you have to act quickly and safely.”

As the leader of Grumman’s Delta rig replenishment team during UNREPs, Melendez always reminds his team members to watch where they’re standing.

“I tell them to make sure they’re not standing in the bite of a line, and watch out for each other. I tell them that each of them is responsible for observing safety. If they see anything that they think is unsafe,

they know to let me know, and that I will stop doing what we're doing, correct the discrepancy, and then go ahead and continue."

Despite the danger involved, Melendez says he enjoys what he does, and wouldn't be doing it if he didn't like it. He remembers his active duty days in the Navy, and the feeling of receiving letters and care packages from loved ones while deployed. Melendez says this makes the job of delivering mail to those currently serving that much more rewarding.

"Last time we replenished the USS Cole, we gave them their mail, and they brought it aft of the ship

to disperse it to the crew. They had it sorted and distributed before we pulled our replenishment lines away. Everyone had their mail in their hands waving at us and thanking us. They had big grins on their faces and they were thankful. And like I said, I've been in their shoes. I know exactly how that feels."

Grumman is one of MSC’s more than 110 non-combatant ships, and is conducting operations in the U.S. 6th Fleet Area of Responsibility, in support of the U.S. and NATO forces in Europe. For more information on MSC ships, visit the MSC website at www.msc.navy.mil.

The rewarding risk of maintaining maritime activityBY mC2 DONAvAN pATUBOAmerican Forces Network Sigonella

Civil service mariners aboard USS Samuel B. Roberts (FFG 58) receive cargo from USNS Leroy Grumman (T-AO 195) during a replenishment-at-sea in the Mediterranean Sea, Nov. 15. Grumman, the Military Sealift Command Mediterranean Sea duty oiler, is forward-deployed to the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations in support of national security interests in Europe and Africa. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ryan D. McLearnon/Released)


Over the Thanksgiving weekend, 12 Swordfish swimmers traveled to Lignano, Italy to compete in the Long Distance Championships. The 10-and-under swimmers competed in the 400-meter freestyle, while the 11 through 19-year-olds competed in the 400 individual medley, 800 meter freestyle and 1500-meter freestyle. The Swordfish swimmers competed with incredible will and determination. Overall, there were 12 Top-6 finishes captured by the Swordfish. These events were swam by CJ Davis, Hannah Davis, Tommy McManus, Ethan Naaktgeboren, Alyah Perkins, and Bailey Wilson. The Swordfish had two gold medal performances throughout the weekend. Ethan Naaktgeboren clinched the gold in the Boys 11-year-old 1500 meter freestyle. CJ Davis swam his way to a gold medal and a new European Forces Swim League record (Boys 9-years-old). Also turning in fast performances were Shannon Buckley, Matti Krug, Mia Naaktegboren, Zoey Perkins, Aiden Rosendahl and Alexis Rosendahl.

The last home meet for the Swordfish this competitive season is Jan. 10. Come out and support them as they swim their way to short course qualifying times.

Sigonella Swordfish compete in long-distance swimBY SALLIE DAvIS

Shannon Buckley, Matti Krug, and Hannah Davis cheer Aiden Rosendahl on during the boys 400-meter freestyle. (Photo by Sammie McManus)

5. SECNAV, Marine Commandant make stops to Sicily – The Honorable Ray Mabus, Secretary of the Navy, visited with Sigonella Sailors and Marines during an All Hands Call at the Global Hawk hangar, June 17. The Navy’s highest-ranking official discussed Tuition Assistance, current world events affecting the sea services, Navy manning, and the building of more amphibious ships to meet his intent for an increase of Marine presence on the high seas. “We are sending Marines back to sea as part of the Navy-Marine Corps team,” Mabus said. A few months later, General James F. Amos, commandant of the United States Marine Corps, paid his respects to Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force 14 Marines, Sailors, and Coast Guardsmen here, Sept. 3. “I don’t say it casually, or without meaning,” said Amos. “I know what you do for your country…what you’ve endured. So when I say ‘thank you for your service,’ I mean that from the bottom of my heart.”

6. WWII vet returns to Sicily 71 ye-ars later – On July 2, 71 years and 6,000 miles from last setting foot on Sicilian soil, 96-year-old Herb Tollefson made an emo-tional return to pay his undying respects to the people of Pachino. In June and July of 1943, Tollefson, then a fresh-faced Army Air Corps staff sergeant, was temporarily assigned with 14 Army aircraft mechanics to an area just outside Pachino. Their mis-sion: use whatever means necessary to fix a downed B-24 Liberator and return it to the fight. Tollefson said the locals put their lives at risk by aiding the Americans whi-le Sicily was still occupied by Nazis. Local farmers provided food, and helped the men transform a melon patch into a makeshift air strip. During a teary-eyed reunion in Pachino attended by the mayor and scores of residents, Tollefson fulfilled his life-long dream by thanking them for the kindness and graciousness of their ancestors.

7. Sigonella community works together to saves lives – Aviation Ordnanceman 2nd Class Marcus Toney was enjoying his Fourth of July, 96-hour

liberty weekend at the “Fusion Discoteca” pool across from NAS 1 when he heard screams coming from the water as guests were frantically pulling from the pool a young boy choking on food. Without hesitation the Navy Munitions Command (NMC) Sailor calmly breezed past the seemingly paralyzed crowd, assessed the situation, and then provided life-saving CPR until Italian paramedics arrived on scene. Weeks later Toney was awarded the Navy Commendation Medal for his heroic actions during an All Hands Call. Yet, this would not be the only life-saving event involving the Sigonella community this year. On Sept. 13, the Sig’ Citizens again came to the rescue when a woman driving just outside NAS 1 rushed to inform base security that an immobilized gentleman had just fallen from his bicycle, kicking off a chain of quick, life-saving events involving both U.S. and Italian community members. From the time of his fall to the moment the patient was transported from US Naval Hospital Sigonella to a Catania hospital took just 46 minutes, an expedient display of Italian-U.S. teamwork that likely made the “life or death” difference for the Italian cyclist. NAS Sigonella Commanding Officer, Capt. Christopher Dennis, who would later join Sigonella Base Commander, Col. Vincenzo Sicuso, for a visit to the recovering victim’s home, said the swift actions of an entire community were on display that day. “Good Samaritans, hospital emergency services, Security, Operations, the Italian Air Force; they all worked in spontaneous but fully-harmonious coordination and made a lifesaving difference,” Dennis said.

8. Sig’ Citizenship signing – On Sept. 30, roughly 200 civilians, military personnel, local nationals, and other Sigonella members gathered in front of the NAS 2 water fountain to sign Naval Air Station Sigonella’s “Commitment to Sig’ Citizenship.” The event encapsulated the vow made by the community to make the installation and surrounding areas safer, better places to work through deliberate, everyday choices. The Sig’ Citizenship initiative and its three main pillars –

Security; Health and Welfare; and Resource Conservation – began in 2013 to provide focal points for every man and women living or working here to strive toward, which in the words of MWR Marketing Director, Maria Dumanlang, provides an essential compass to guide Sigonella. “We are such a small community and we must rely on one another to make Sigonella a home away from home,” said Dumanlang.

9. Changes “in store” at Navy Exchange – On Oct. 20, the main exchange here opened its doors to customers at 10 a.m. For those not stationed in Sigonella, that would hardly qualify as news; but for community members the occasion was celebrated since Oct. 20 fell on a Monday, marking the first time in years the store opened the first day of the work week. The added day was consistent with NEX store manager Julie Herring’s promise to have the big exchange open seven days a week, just one of several changes – some still ongoing – for Sigonella NEX locations. Others have included shifting goods from NAS 2’s depot to the main store, extending store hours, designating the depot as a furniture store, and moving the bulk of uniform items from the mini-mart to NAS 1 to provide an increase in consumables and healthy food choices for NAS 2 residents. Perhaps

the biggest upgrade, a projected year-long remodeling of the main store, won’t begin until next summer. “It’s going to be a really nice store when it’s finished,” Herring said.

10. NAS Sigonella helps clean Acireale storm damage – Amidst broken branches, strewn clothing, and random debris caused by three days of incessant rain and driving winds that included a rare tornado, volun-teers from NAS Sigonella rallied to quic-kly form a cleanup crew to aid Acireale, by helping clean the Catania municipality. The Nov. 9 effort included more than 150 volunteers – 30 from Sigonella – who hel-ped scoop up and remove countless bran-ches, and all varieties of rubbish. Though members said they wished they could have done more, they were glad for the oppor-tunity to show support to their neighbors, many of whom work at Sigonella. “I am very impressed with the U.S. Armed For-ces and I want to thank the commanding officer and the entire Sigonella commu-nity for being here and supporting us in this time of need,” said Acireale mayor, Roberto Barbagallo. The cleanup was just one of more than 150 community relations projects executed by Sigonella in 2014, but likely the most significant display of a base community thankful for the warmth and support of their Italian hosts.

Two-thousand Fourteen was highlighted by several noteworthy events to include the Sept. 30 Sig' Citizenship Pledge signing. Pictured above, NAS Sigonella Commanding Officer, Capt. Christopher Dennis, left and Sigonella Base Commander, Col. Vincenzo Sicuso, sign the pledge while community members look on.

"2014 in Review" continued from Page 1


Friday, December 19Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Chicken Tocino on Garlic Fried RiceBrunch: Soul Food FridaySpeed Line: Temporarily ClosedDinner: Chili Macaroni, Grilled Cheese Sandwiches with Hot Tomato Soup

Saturday, December 20Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Corned Beef HashBrunch: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Corned Beef Hash, Oven Fried Chicken FilletDinner: SpaghettiwithMeatSauce,CornDogs

Sunday, December 21Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Grilled Turkey Sausage, Oven Fried BaconBrunch: Eggs to Order, Grilled Turkey Sausage, Oven Fried Bacon, Baked Tuna & NoodlesDinner: Savory Baked Chicken, Chef Melo’s Carbonara

Monday, December 22 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Minced Beef, Oven Fried Bacon Lunch: Roast Turkey, Hamburger YakisobaSpeed Line: Temporarily ClosedDinner: Chicken Fried Steak, Chef Franco’s Alfredo w/ Penne Pasta

Tuesday, December 23Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Grilled Turkey Sausage, Oven Fried BaconLunch: Taco TuesdaySpeed Line: Temporarily ClosedDinner: Oven Baked Chicken Nuggets, Chef Franco’s Home Made Meatloaf

Wednesday, December 24 (SPECIAL HOURS)Breakfast: (7 - 9 a.m.) Eggs to Order, Chicken Tocino on Garlic Fried Rice, Oven Fried BaconLunch: (11a.m.-1p.m.)PastaAlForno,FriedCatfishSpeed Line: Temporarily ClosedDinner: (4:30 - 6 p.m.) Oven Baked Chicken, Chef Melo’s Beef Ravioli

Thursday, December 25 (SPECIAL HOURS)Breakfast: (7 - 9 a.m.) Eggs to Order, Grilled Turkey Sausage, Oven Fried BaconSnack: (10 - 11 a.m.) Snack Dinner: (2 -4 p.m.) Merry Christmas Holiday Meal

Friday, December 26 (SPECIAL HOURS)Breakfast: (7 - 9 a.m.) Eggs to Order, Oven fried Bacon, Corned Beef Hash, and Hashed Brown PotatoesBrunch: (11a.m. - 1 p.m.) Turkey A La King, Eggs to Order, Oven fried Bacon, and Hashed Brown PotatoesDinner: (4:30 - 6 p.m.)Salisbury Steak, Chef Melo’s Penne Alfredo

NOTE: During the holiday stand down from 18DEC – 12JAN the speed line will be temporarilyclosedduetoshortstaffing,lesscustomersduetoholidayleave,andtheoverall costeffectivenessofgalleyoperations.Weapologize for the inconvenienceand thank you for understanding.

A reminder to please adhere to our galley uniform rules below: •TherearenoPTU'sallowedattheGalley.AppropriateathleticgearisauthorizedwiththediscretionoftheGalleystaff.Pleaserememberthatforsanitationpurposesandfortheconsiderationofothercustomers,ifyouhave been out for PT, been working out at the gym, or have just been engaged

inanyphysicalactivitywhereyouandoryourclothinghasbecomesoiledorsweaty you will be asked to turn around.•Forpersonnelonnightduty,wehaveimplementedaseparatesign-insheettoallowyoutogeta"to-go"mealforlaterconsumption.Pleasekindlyinformthefrontdeskthatyouareonnightshift.Pleasebeinuniform.•Duetolimitedsuppliesfor"to-go"containerswearecurrentlylimiting"to-go" meals to personnel on duty in uniform only. We will inform everyoneonce"to-go"isavailableforpersonnelinappropriatecivilianattire.•Takingfoodoutofthegalleyisstrictlyprohibitedunlessitisforanauthorized“to-go”ticket.


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Research on how we form and behave in relationships (called "attachment theory") shows pretty much everyone falls into one of three catego-ries: anxious, avoidant, or se-cure. Here's the breakdown: About 20 percent of people are anxious, roughly 25 percent fall into the avoidant camp, and the remainder are con-sidered secure, according to a study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psy-chology.

Life experiences and genes play a role in how you form love connections, but your romantic MO mostly stems from your childhood. The way you learned to bond with your parents as a baby follows you into adulthood, affecting your romantic relationships, which, in turn, continue to shape your attachment style. Identifying your style (and your partner’s) tells you how to move into the secure group — and if you're already there, realizing it can help you make your relationship even stronger.

AnxiousPeople who have an

anxious attachment style crave intimacy and closeness. They love being coupled up, but they consider relationships fragile and are sensitive to even minor shifts in their partner's mood.

Little things their partner may do, such as not calling when they said they would, leave them feeling vulnerable and insecure. But because anxious people generally have a harder time telling someone what they want, they're more likely to mope, withdraw, or even lash out. They ignore the calls they so anxiously await or flirt with others to make their mate jealous. This method of reacting doesn't bode well for creating the communicative, stable relationship an anxious person needs to feel secure.

Your strategy: Speak up! When your partner says or does something that triggers insecurity, such as opting for a night out with friends when you were hoping for time together, take a deep breath and stop yourself from picking a fight or retreating. Then communicate how you feel rather than expecting mind reading. If you voice your needs in a calm, clear way, your partner will likely respond by being more available to you.

AvoidantAvoidant types tend to run

hot and cold. You may miss you’re your partner when they are gone, but then feel the need to do your own thing after the two of you have spent some time together. That's because avoidants equate intimacy with being stripped of their prized independence. When people in this category sense that someone is getting too close, they can feel uncomfortable or suffocated. Although avoidants may seem like prime candidates for eternal singlehood, they do crave intimacy beneath it all. But to protect themselves from potential heartbreak, they repress those feelings and create distance between themselves and their partner. For example, avoidants may feel annoyed or even angry if their partner seems "needy" and opt to keep them at arm's length. Or they may fixate on small flaws, like how their significant other chews or dresses, and allow those minor imperfections to mute their romantic feelings. These tendencies make it nearly impossible to achieve and enjoy real closeness.

Your strategy: Whenever your partner annoys you or makes you feel claustrophobic, ask yourself if this is really more about your need for space? If that's the case, resist the urge to get snippy and remind yourself that you care about this person.

If you feel the need to bolt, find a way to get your me-time while still being sensitive to your partner’s feelings (like, say, having a date night and then meeting up with your friends the next day). And as dicey as it sounds, you do have to explain your issues: It's important to underscore that your occasional space craving isn't a reflection of your feelings for him or her; it's a personal need you have in any relationship. Having this insight will help your partner feel more comfortable with the situation, especially if they are an anxious type who requires extra affirmation.

SecureDependable and loving?

Yep. Comfortable with intimacy? Totally. People who fall into the secure category are reliable, relationship oriented,

and pros at communicating what they want, as well as responding to their partner's needs. When disagreements crop up, secure people tend to stay calm and are ready to talk things out.

Your strategy: When it comes to love, you're pretty golden: You already get that it's crucial to be straightforward about what you want while being sensitive to your man's feelings. Got an anxious partner? Be receptive to their desire for security and allay the fears when he seems to be second-guessing or smothering you. If your

partner is the type to clam up and keep you at a comfortable distance, talk to him or her about how you can give him the space he may not even realize he wants. Once you get him talking openly, you'll be headed toward a stellar relationship.

The attachment style you developed as a child doesn’t have to define the way you relate to those you love in your adult life. Once you understand your attachment style, you can see clearly how you protect yourself from emotional intimacy. You can challenge your defenses

by becoming aware of your attachment style. Then both you and your partner can overcome your insecurities and fears and develop new styles of attachment for sustaining a satisfying, loving relationship.

The Fleet and Family Sup-port Center offers counseling to help individuals, couples and families develop healthy relationship skills and ad-dress common relationship challenges. Learn more about healthy relationships by con-tacting the Fleet and Family Support Center at DSN: 624-4291.

What’s my attachment style and how is it affecting my relationship?BY fLEET AND fAmILY SUppORT CENTERBy Amir Levine, M.D.

U.S. Naval Hospital joins (clean) hands for awareness week 2014

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - You can do a lot of things in 20 seconds. Tie your shoes. Send an email. Update your Facebook status. You could even sing Happy Birthday… twice. Twenty seconds is also the amount of time the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggest for washing your hands.

It’s a recommendation that’s part of a greater effort to keep a healthy community and something U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella was highlighting last week during National Hand Washing Awareness Week.

“Our goal is to increase the awareness that hand washing is important,” said LCDR Stuart Hitchcock, the hospital’s infection control officer. “It’s the number one thing you can do to prevent the spread of germs and stay healthy.”

With flu season upon us, maintaining health is becoming more and more important, and hand washing is the first and most important step in doing that.

The CDC suggests washing hands before, during and after food preparation; before and after caring for someone who is sick; after using the toilet; after changing diapers; after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing; after touching an animal or animal waste; and after touching garbage. And these practices are even more important for those in the medical field.

“Everybody in the medical field plays a role,” LCDR Hitchcock said. “Everyday we’re seeing sick patients and the last thing we want to do is spread germs to others.”

To help get the word out, LCDR Hitchcock has inundated the community with information in the form of posters and flyers and his staff has even visited the DoDDs school, where they spoke to more than 200 students about the importance of hand washing.

Make no mistake, though, this isn’t a one-week-a-year thing. Hand washing is vital to overall health and something that should be practiced daily to prevent the spread of germs.

“It’s an everyday thing we do throughout the hospital,” LCDR Hitchcock said, pointing to multiple hand sanitizing stations in the hospital lobby. “We educate the staff and patients to make sure they’re practicing proper hand washing procedures.”

For the hospital, that means random, monthly hand washing surveillances done in the different departments by infection control representatives. These representatives anonymously observe everyone from corpsmen to nurses to physicians to make sure proper hand washing is done.

Because after all, as LCDR Hitchcock reiterated, “Hand washing is the number one thing you can do to make a difference in your health.”

Come to think of it, that’s not a bad Facebook status.

BY U.S. NAvAL HOSpITAL SIGONELLA, SICILY

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THE SIGNATUREpAGE 24 December 19, 2014

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The Signature, December 19, 2014