NAS Meridian Sailors of the Year - University of Florida

What’s Inside

Volume 58, Number 1 January 9, 2020https://www.cnic.navy.mil/meridian ~ www.facebook.com/NASMeridian ~ Twitter: @nasmeridianms

Follow us on www.facebook.

com/NASMeridian and Twitter:

@NASMeridianMS

~ page 2 ~

Area Happenings

~ page 7 ~

Crime Tips

~ page 5 ~Electrical Safety

~ page 9 ~Fresh Look on a

New Year

On Base ]Financial Education

Jan. 11 at 11 a.m. in the Library

conference room. Call 679-2379

]Cosmic Liberty Bowl & Putt-Putt Jan. 12 at 6:30

p.m. at the McCain Rec Center. Call

679-2360

]Racquetball Open League

Sign up now at the Fitness Center.

League plays starts Feb. 3. Call 679-2567

]Cupid’s 5k Color Run

Feb. 8, 9 a.m. at Ponta Creek Complex. Call

679-2379

From Public Affairs Staff

Starting Jan 1, 2020, Naval Air Station Meridian will join all mili-tary installations in the United States allowing authorized veterans and their caregivers to shop at base Commissaries, Navy Exchange stores, and enjoy certain Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) programs.

Eligible patrons include:• PurpleHeartrecipients• FormerPrisonersofWar• VeteranswithaDepartmentofVeteransAffairs(VA)-documentedservice-connected disability• PrimaryfamilycaregiversforveteransenrolledintheVA’sPro-gramofComprehensiveAssistanceforFamilyCaregivers.

This expanded access for authorized veterans and caregivers is specifiedinthePurpleHeartandDisabledVeteransEqualAccessActof2018andincludedintheJohnS.McCainNationalDefenseAuthorizationActforFiscalYear2019.

Installation access for NAS Meridian Priortoobtainingexpandedprivileges,patronsmustapplyforandpass a background check. This procedure can be completed at NAS Meridian’s Visitor Control Center. The process takes on average 20minutes to complete depending on numbers of customers and extent of backgroundreport.TheVisitorCenterisopenMonday-Fridayfrom6a.m.-3:30 p.m.; closed all federal holidays. “I have to stress that all veterans must pass the background check beforetheyobtainaccesstotheinstallation,”saidCapt.BrianHorst-man,commandingofficerofNASMeridian.“Wecontinueto focusonour number one priority of ensuring the safety of our people and the security of our installation, at the same time we are dedicated to pro-viding top-notch customer service to our veterans as they come in to process their base access.” The next step is for the veteran or caregiver to register their Vet-eranHealthIdentificationCard(VHIC)fromtheVAthatdisplaystheireligibility category. Veterans must also produce a current state issued driver’slicenseorREAL-IDcard,andproofofinsuranceandregistra-tion on their vehicle. =Veterans, page 10

Access expanded for veterans

~ page 4 ~

President signs law establishing

U.S. Space Force

NAS Meridian Sailors of the Year

Randall BensonSenior Civilian of the Year

Ground Electronics

Thomas CarlsonJunior Civilian of the Year

Fire & Emergency Services

AC1 Nathan WoodleeSenior Sailor of the Year

Air Operations

MA2 Michael GinleyJunior Sailor of the Year

Security

ET2 Kyle PianaltoBlue Jacket of the Year

Ground Electronics

Civilians of the Year

Gunnery Sgt. Chandra DraytonInstructor of the Year

Marine Aviation Training Support Squadron One and Marine Aviation Training Support Group 21

CongratulationsFrom Naval Aviation Enterprise

Public Affairs

Naval Air Stations Lemoore andNorth Island, California (NNS) (NNS) -- The Naval Aviation Enter-prise (NAE) hosted a two-day “Boots onGround”(BoG)eventhereDec.17-18 to follow up on more than a year of implementing the Naval Sustain-ment System-Aviation (NSS-A). A collaboration between military and idustry leaders to remove barri-ers, accelerate actions and improve processes, NSS-A encourages the adoption of commercial best practices and empowers commands to make changes. BoGs provide opportunities for senior Naval Aviation leadership to meetteamsacrossthefleetinperson,creating more visibility into activities or needs across the NAE. This par-ticular event covered two locations toallowleaderstoseeandhearfirst-

hand how the NSS-A has affected two of the facilities most involved in and affected by the initiative. Through NSS-A, Naval Aviation reached its goal of 80% mission ca-pable strike fighter aircraft in Sep-tember and has since rededicated its focus on sustaining those gains while also using them as a foundation to increase the lethality and surviv-ability of those aircraft and aircrew. Vice Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Robert Burke joined the BoG at NAS Lemooreandnotedthatthesuccessesin Naval Aviation can be applied and shared in other communities to im-prove readiness across the board. “2019 was a year of success for aviation maintenance improvements and readiness, thanks to immense work by both Navy Sailors and ci-vilians, as well as our contracting and industry partners,” said Burke. “While naval aviation works to =Aviation, page 8

Aviation leaders engage Sustainment Teams in West Coast ‘Boots on Ground’

Local HappeningsJanuary18: Meridian Symphony Orchestra Winter Classical featuring Jenny Gregoire from 7-9 p.m. at the MSU Riley Center. Tickets range from $35-$10; call 601-693-2224.

February1: Fearlessly Funny Comedy Tour Featuring Don DC Curry and Friends from 8-11:30 p.m. at the Historic Temple Theater. Curry, from ‘Next Friday’ and ‘Friday After Next’ as Uncle Elroy, headlines an evening of stand-up comedy. Tickets are $20; Call 229-588-2323 or visit www.makeyoufamousentertainment.com.6: Lyle Lovett and his Acoustic Group at 7:30 p.m. at the MSU Riley Center. You can’t fit Texas singer-songwriter Lyle Lovett into a single musical genre. Anchored in country music, he ventures into blues, folk, jazz, swing, and gospel. The best description for him is simply this: authentic. Tickets range from $43-$100; call 601-696-2200.8: Aquila Theatre in George Orwell’s 1984 at 7:30 p.m. at the MSU Riley Center. Technology threatens privacy. Government bureaucrats invent “facts.” Truth becomes elusive. The ever-innovative Aquila Theatre presents a bold, highly physical staging for this classic tale of political repression versus personal freedom. Tickets range from $15-$60; call 601-696-2200.18: Carlota Santana presents Reflejos Flamencos at 7:30 p.m. at the MSU Riley Center. 6 p.m. Pre-show dinner; $25 advance dinner purchase required. Flamboyant, percussive, and emotionally breathtaking, the art form known as flamenco is coming to the MSU Riley Center stage. Tickets range from $17-$70; call 601-696-2200.

Area HappeningsJanuary18: Miranda Lambert: Wildcard Tour 2020 at 7 p.m. at the Legacy Arena at the BJCC, Birmingham, Ala. Contact online ticket vendor.25: Miss Saigon at 2 p.m. at the Saenger Theatre, New Orleans. Contact online ticket vendor.28: Tool at 7:30 p.m. at the State Farm Arena, Atlanta. Contact online ticket vendor.

The Skyline ~ January 9, 20202

The Skyline ~ Naval Air Station Meridian, Miss.

Command StaffCommanding Officer ~

Capt. Brian S. HorstmanExecutive Officer ~

Cmdr. J.P. FalardeauCommand Master Chief ~

CMDCM Maurice Sutherland

Editorial StaffPublic Affairs Officer ~

Penny Randall

Public Affairs Specialist~Adam Prince

This DoD newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the Department of Defense. Contents of The Skyline are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense, or NAS Meridian, Mississippi. The Skyline is pub-lished every other Thursday by The Meridian Star, a private firm in no way connected with the U.S. Navy, under exclusive written contract with the commanding officer of Naval Air Station, Meridian, Mississippi. The editorial content of this publication is the responsibility of the NAS Meridian Public Affairs Office. The Skyline solicits news contributions from military and civilian sources. It reserves the right to edit material selected for publication. The deadline for material is 4:30 p.m. the Thursday before publication. Send submissions to: The Skyline, 255 Rosen-baum Ave., Suite 163, Public Affairs Office, Naval Air Station, Meridian, MS 39309-5003 or e-mail: [email protected] or [email protected]. For more information, call (601) 679-2318 or (601) 679-2809. The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the Department of Defense or The Meridian Star of products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without re-gard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handi-cap, political affiliation, or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user or patron.

Hotlines & Helpful NumbersSAPR Victim Assistance: 601-604-3037

SAPR Civilian Victim Assistance: 601-486-3122SARC: 601-481-4274

SAFE Helpline: 877-995-5247Suicide Hotline: 800-273-8255

Military OneSource: 800-342-9647CEAP (DoN Civilian): 844-366-2327EAP (NAF Civilian): 800-932-0034

FFSC Meridian: 601-679-2360Chaplain: 601-604-2015

NMCRS Duty Cell: 601-604-2206EEO (NAF): 866-295-0328EEO (GS): 904-542-2802

Photo of Week

Photo by MC1 Derek Harkins A Sailor fires a .50-caliber machine gun aboard the submarine tender USS Frank Cable as the ship conducts sea trials in the Pacific Ocean.

Navy News Briefs

A Day in Naval History

~ Jan. 12, 1953 ~

Aircraft landings begin operational tests, day

and night, onboard USS Antietam (CVA-36), the first angled flight deck carrier.

~ Jan. 10, 1917 ~

The first U.S. Navy production order for aerial photographic equipment is initiated when the Naval Observatory

issued requisitions for 20 aero cameras and accessories to be

manufactured by Eastman Kodak Company.

Naval History and Heritage Com-mand(NHHC)hostedaceremonyattheNationalMuseumoftheU.S.NavyDec.17,honoringthemuseumforitsreaccred-itation by the American Alliance of Mu-seums (AAM), joining the ranks of muse-ums such as the Smithsonian American ArtMuseumandtheWhiteHouseOfficeof the Curator. Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Mi-chael Gilday acknowledged the achieve-ment by NMUSN in a tweet last week, statingthatitisasignificantaccomplish-ment. “Bravo Zulu to the National Museum of the United States Navy on their recent accreditation,” Gilday said. “Based on a rigorous peer review, accreditation means the NMUSN meets the highest standards and best practices for museums in the U.S.” During the ceremony, Mark Weber,managing director at the museum, shared that the museum was singled out for ex-emplary practices in long-range planning, as well as its educational outreach pro-grams and guided tours. “The process involves a very detailed self-study and report, followed by a site visit,” Weber said. “I would like to thank Mr. Jeff Barta of the Navy Museums divi-sion, an AAM peer reviewer, for his expert guidance during our reaccreditation pro-cess. I would also like to thank everyone

atNHHCwhoplayedarole inthispro-cess,particularlyRearAdmiralCox,PatBurns,DaveAdams aswell as the sup-portoftheNavalHistoricalFoundation.” “When you think of accreditation you think of Smithsonian standard,” said Barta, assistant director for NHHC’sNavyMuseums division. “NHHC is theNavy’sonlyhistoryorganizationandwearethekeepersoftheNavy’shistoryandheritage. These museums are the prop-erty of the American people and we want to make sure we are taking care of our priceless heritage assets using the best practices possible.” According to AAM, accreditation brings national recognition to a museum for its commitment to excellence, account-ability, high professional standards and continued institutional improvement. Developedandsustainedbymuseumprofessionals for over 45 years, the Alli-ance’s museum accreditation programis the field’s primary vehicle for qualityassurance, self-regulation and public ac-countability. It strengthens the museum profession by promoting practices that enable lead-ers to make informed decisions, allocate resourceswisely, and remain financiallyand ethically accountable in order to pro-vide the best possible service to the pub-lic. --From Navy Region Southeast Public Affairs

Navy Museum receives national recognition

Seven months after reaching initial operational capability, U.S. 2nd Fleetachieved full operational capabilityDec.31. Since its reestablishment in August 2018,ViceAdm.AndrewLewis,2ndFleet(C2F)commander,hasledtheresurgenceof the Navy’s newest numbered Fleet,amid a return to great power competition asoutlinedintheNationalDefenseStrat-egy. “Within an increasingly complex global security environment, our allies and com-petitors alike are well aware that many oftheworld’smostactiveshippinglanesliewithintheNorthAtlantic,”Lewissaid.“Combined with the opening of water-ways in the Arctic, this competitive space willonlygrow,and2ndFleet’sdevotiontothe development and employment of ca-pable forces will ensure that our nation isbothpresentandreadytofightinthe

region if and when called upon.” Headquartered in Norfolk, Virginia,C2F exercises operational authoritiesover assigned ships, aircraft and landing forces on the East Coast and the North Atlantic. The achievement of FOC signifies2nd Fleet has reached sufficient capac-ity to sustain command and control over assigned forces using the operational functions and processes of the Maritime Operations Center andMaritime Head-quarters, in accordance withNavy Doc-trine. C2F will primarily focus on forwardoperations and the employment of combat ready naval forces in the Atlantic and Arc-tic, and to a smaller extent, on force gen-erationandthefinaltrainingandcertifi-cation of forces preparing for operations around the globe. --From U.S. 2nd Fleet Public Affairs

2nd Fleet declares full operational capability

The Navy/Marine Corps Thrift Store now accepting

school uniformsIf you have any uniforms that you would like to

get rid of, please drop them off during store hours. We just received a lot of military uniforms and are

processing them for sale.

We are taking the following: all in service uniforms; school uniforms; ribbons/medals; devices;

covers/ball caps.We are in need of volunteers as well. If you are

interested, please email [email protected]

NORTH ARABIAN SEA (NNS) --The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS HarryS.Truman (CVN75), theCar-rierStrikeGroupEight (CSG-8)flag-ship, conducted maritime security and flightoperationsintheU.S.5thFleetareaofoperations(AOO)Dec.20,con-tinuing carrier presence in the region. Deployingshipsandaircraftofthestrike group, commanded by Rear Adm.AndrewJ.Loiselle,includeTru-man,commandedbyCapt.KavonHa-kimzadeh; the eight squadrons andstaff of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1, and

staffs of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 8 and Destroyer Squadron (DESRON)28. Truman and its accompanying units providearangeofflexiblecapabilitiesin support of theater security coopera-tionandmaritimesecurity.TheHarryS.TrumanCarrierStrikeGroup(HST-CSG)addssignificantcombatstrikingpowerto5thFleetinsupportofamyr-iad of U.S. Central Command contin-gency plans.

--From USS Harry S. Truman Public Affairs

Truman begins operations in U.S. 5th Fleet

The Skyline ~ January 9, 2020 3

TherewasanavalaviatordesignationceremonyDec.20, intheChapelonboardNaval Air Station Meridian. TwoU.S.Navy,oneMarineCorpsandtwoFrenchNavyaviatorswillreceivetheir“Wings of Gold” during the ceremony. The naval aviator designation ceremony is not prescribedspecificallybyU.S.Navyregulations,buthasemergedasanhonoredprod-uct of the rich heritage of naval tradition. It marks the culmination of nearly two years ofspecializedtraining,whichhaspreparedtheseofficersfortherigorousdemandsofaerial combat and carrier operations -- earning each the title of “Naval Aviator” and the right to wear the coveted “Wings of Gold.”=Winging, page 7

Five aviators earn ‘Wings of Gold’ in December pinning ceremony

Madden Maillard Rogers

Shuey Vidall

Navy League President Rick Justice presents 1st Lt. John Carl Rogers with the Golden Stick during a winging ceremony at the Chapel on board NAS Meridian, Dec. 20.

Photo by Adam Prince

Golden Stick

Photos by Penny RandallCmdr. J.P. Falardeau, NAS Meridian executive officer, presents Alyson Cagle with hter 30-year civilian service award.

Civilian Service Awards

Barbara Watson receives her 25-year civilian service award from Cmdr. Falardeau.

Civilian Service Award

Jerry Snow receives his 10-year civilian service award from Cmdr. Flardeau.

Photo by Dave KlutzCmdr. Michael Poe, VT-7 commanding officer, presents a 10-year civilian civil service certificate and pin to Bonnie DuBose.

NAS Meridian Civilians of the Quarter

Bryant GibsonSenior Civilian of the QuarterFire & Emergency Services

Courtney SchimelpfeningJunior Civilian of the Quarter

MWR

Darlene Maes receives his 10-year civilian service award from Cmdr. Flardeau.

NAS Quarters

Photos by Penny RandallMultiple Sailors are recognize for their achievements during an awards quarters at Air Operations onboard NAS Meridian, Dec. 19.

Farewell Senior Chief

Photo by Adam PrinceSenior Chief Braulio Galvan receives his End of Tour award from Capt. Brian Horstman.


Ifindthattheoptimaltimeforoneto muster motivation for self-improve-ment is right after one has polished off an entire pint of ice cream. “Okay,that’sit!” I recently bellowed to my college-aged daughters after tossing an empty carton into the kitchen trash can.“I’mdeadserious this time — In 2020, Iamfinallygoing to become mybestself!”Iwasn’texactlysurewhat that entailed, but the pint of ice cream had triggered an all-too-familiar level of personal disgust that I had experienced many times before. The mudslide of rocky road slosh-ing in my stomach had brought me to rock bottom, and I was ready for something new. Not a new ice cream flavor,butanewpath.Anewwayofdoing things. A new attitude. A new and improved me. “Idon’tcareifI’mfifty-threeyearsold!” I ranted, dropping my spoon into the sink with a repugnant clank. “I’mfinallygoingtolearnportioncontrol,forcriminy’ssake.And…andalso…I’mgoingtostopstayingupsodamnedlate,I’mnotgonnabitemynailsanymore,I’mgoingtotakemyvitamins,I’mgoingtostayorganized,” I counted dramatically oneachofmystickyfingers,“I’mnotgoingtomakeexcuses,andI’mgonnado things right, once and for all!” “Glow up, Mom,” my daughter Anna said from her seat at the kitchen island, nonchalantly smirking at her sister.SheandLillywereaccustomedto my hormonal mood swings. They stared blankly at reruns of “Below Deck”onthecountertoptelevisionasif I made such dramatic proclama-tions every day. “Wait. What do you mean ‘glow up?’”Iasked,stoppinginfrontofAnna. She craned her neck to see her show around me, and responded with-outlooking,“Youknow,Mom—youdoyou,beconfident,don’tletanyoneget you down.” “Hmm,”Ithoughtforaminute,“Ilikethat…Yeah,that’sexactlywhatI’mgoingtodo.I’mgoingtoglowupin 2020!” Mildly amused, my daughters

eggedmeonwithwootsandfistpumps, their eyes only temporarily deviating from their reruns. “Giddyup, Big Mamma!” “Go on wit ya bad self!” “Popoff,sis!” “No cap!” IhadnoideawhatAnnaandLillywere shouting at me, but apparently, theywereofferingmoderncolloquialphrases of support and encourage-ment. And I knew I would need all the help I could get. Despitethefactthatself-disciplinehad never been my strong suit, that afternoon in the kitchen with my daughters, I felt a true sense of deter-mination to change. As a middle-aged woman, I knew I would need to buck the “old dog” stereotype. Could I learn new tricks at my age? I reminded myself that I had spent 23 years as a Navy wife and mother of three — I had tackled challenges be-fore.Deployments,loneliness,careerchallenges, managing the household alone, trying to make new friends, elevenmoves,financialworries,mili-tary retirement, feelings of isolation, longing for the comfort of military culture. Memories of our military life seemedtowootandfistpumpatme,just as my daughters had. My determination to succeed at self-improvement seemed more real than ever before. But I was still fac-ing at least a week of seasonal festivi-ties, houseguests, chaos and clutter. I knew I would need to put some safeguards in place to minimize the risk that my motivation would wither and die like our Christmas tree. First,Igoogledthetermtomakesuremygirlsweren’tpunkingme.To them, nothing was more hilari-ous than to hear their middle aged mother misuse modern phrases. To my relief, the pop culture blogs confirmedthat“glowup”wasgener-allydefinedas“apersonaltransfor-mation” that includes “increased self confidence”and“apositivechangeinone’slifestyle.” Perfect.Next,Imadeacalltothebase gym to book personal training sessions, listed my 2020 goals in a new organizational calendar, and painted my nails. “Glow up, Big Mamma,” I told my-self,confidentthatin2020,Iwoulddo whatever I set my mind to.Lisa Smith Molinari’s self syndicated columns ap-pear on her blog, www.themeatandpotatoesoflife.com and she recently co-authored Stories Around the Table: Laughter, Wisdom, and Strength in Military Life Follow Lisa@MolinariWrites.

Glowing up in 2020

Molinari

COLUMN

By Jim GaramoneDoD News, Defense Media Activity

PresidentDonaldJ.Trumpsignedintolawlegislationcreatingthefirstnewarmedservicesince1947—theU.S.SpaceForce.TrumpsignedtheNationalDefenseAuthorizationActduringacer-emonyatJointBaseAndrews,Md,today.The$738billionfiscalyear2020 authorization funds military and civilian pay raises, new air-craft, ship construction, tanks and armored vehicles and more. SinceTrumptookoffice,therehasbeenalmost$2.5trillioninde-fense spending. A provision of the voluminous law created the service that will be totally focused on organizing, trainingand equippingSpaceForce,saidAirForceSecretaryBarbaraBarrettduringanearlierPentagonbriefing.“Spaceistheworld’snewestwarfightingdomain,”TrumpsaidatAn-drews. “Amid grave threats to our national security, American superi-orityinspaceisabsolutelyvital.We’releading,butwe’renotleadingbyenough,andveryshortly,we’llbeleadingbyalot.” SpaceForcewillhelptheUnitedStatesdeteraggressionandcon-trol the ultimate high ground, the president said. The new service will immediately amalgamate all members of the AirForceSpaceCommand into thenewservice,Barrett said. “Weare moving forward with alacrity and in accordance with presiden-tialdirection,congressionallegislationandDODguidance,”shesaid.“PersonnelassignedtotheinitialSpaceForceheadquarterslocatedwithinthePentagonwillnowtakeovertheSpaceForceplanning.” AirForceGen.John“Jay”Raymond,thecommanderofU.S.SpaceCommand, will direct the effort. The president named Raymond the chief of Space Operations, and the general will be a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. The new service emphasizes the importance the nation places on space to U.S. and allied security, Raymond said. The Space Command, a combatant command, will not go away. ItwillbeDOD’swarfightingarminspace.TheSpaceForce,liketheservices in other domains, will be responsible for organizing, training andequippingthemission. “U.S. Space Command will only be as strong as the capabilities it isprovidedbytheUnitedStatesSpaceForce,”Raymondsaid.“Letthere be no mistake, the United States is the best in the world in spacetoday.ConsistentwithourNationalDefenseStrategy,theUnit-edStatesSpaceForcewillensurewecompete,deterandwinfromaposition of strength, securing our way of life and our national secu-rity.” ThenewserviceissmallbyDODstandardswithabout16,000AirForcepersonnel—activedutyandcivilian—tostart.“Theywillef-fectivelybetheSpaceForceimmediately,”Barrettsaid. Raymond said there are many actions that are going to have to takeplace—fromuniform,toalogo,towho’sintheSpaceForceandwho’snotintheSpaceForce.TheywillalsorenamesomeAirForcebasestoreflectthenewmis-sions, he said.

President signs law establishing U.S. Space Force

Photo by Airman 1st Class Spencer Slocum President Donald Trump signs S.1790, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020 as senior leaders look on, Friday, Dec. 20, 2019 At Joint Base Andrews. The act authorizes a budget that supports the U.S. armed forces and postures the Air Force to meet the requirements of the National Defense Strategy.

“Consistent with our National Defense Strategy, the United

States Space Force will ensure we compete, deter and win from a position of strength, securing our way of life and our national

security.”

-- Air Force Gen. John “Jay” Raymond, Commander of U.S. Space Command

Lance Cpl. Brennan BeautonMarine Corps Installations Pacific

U.S. Marines and sailors aboard Marine Corps Base-CampSmedleyD.Butler took part in the SecurityAug-mentationForceTrainingfromDec.2toDec.12onCampFoster,Okinawa,Japan. CampsFoster,PlazaandLesterrequiresaSAFinor-der to adequately protect the installation, personnel andinterestsduringperiodsofincreasedForceProtectionCon-ditions.TheProvostMarshal’sOfficeconductsSAFtrain-ing in order to maintain a force with the ability to increase CampFoster, Plaza andLester’s security posture as themissionrequires. Thefirstweekoftrainingtakesplaceintheclassroom.SAFtraineeswill thenpracticallyapplytheirtrainingtohelp validate the knowledge learned in the classes.To carryOC spray,Marinesmustfirst be sprayed them-selves then complete a course designed for them to operate under the effects of OC.

“ThepurposeofthistrainingistoqualifyustouseOCspray on a subject that is non-compliant,” said Cpl. Ab-dul Zhaiya, a water support technician with Marine Wing SupportSquadron172andanativeofMosul, Iraq. “Thecourse’spurposeissoifwedoencounterOCwhiletryingtosubdue that subject, we know the effects of it and the way

it works.” The effects from OC spray are temporary, but it should not be taken lightly. “It feels like someone poured hot sauce all over your face, andthenrubbeditin,”saidPfc.AlexisChavez,anadmin-istrativespecialistwiththeInstallationPersonnelAdmin-istrationCenteronCampFosterandanativeofWheeler,Texas. “When a subject is approaching you, it is so easy to just grab yourOCand spray them.Youwon’t think thatmuch about it until you have actually gone through what it is like and experience how bad it burns.”UponcompletionoftheOCcourse,theone-weekSAFtrain-ing course concludes. However,theMarinesmustprovetheycanhandleandeffectivelyemploytheM1014shotguntoearntheircertifi-cates. “They will shoot from the kneeling, standing positions while executing combat loads and patrol loads,” said Garcia. “SAFMarines carry theM1014 shotgunwhen activated,andtheyhavetobeproficientwithitinordertocarryit.”


Safety & Energy Efficiency is Our Duty

OOORAH! Pfc.FilipeCamposMATSS-1 Student

Hometown:Bridgeport,Conn.

Pvt.AdriannaGuerreroMATSS-1 Student

Hometown:Menomonie,Wisc.

Pfc.CamposjoinedtheMarineCorpsAug. 19, 2019, wanting to serve our coun-try and have stablility. Hismostmemorableexperiencefromboot camp was the gas chamber. “It really challengedrecruitsmentally...it’soneofthehardestthingsI’vedone,”Campossaid. Heismostlookingforwardtogainingmilitary experience and professionalism,” he said. “Those skills will serve me well in the future.” Duringhisfreetime,Camposenjoyssnowboarding, playing soccer and is working towards earning a student pilot license.

Pvt.GuerrerojoinedtheMarineCorps Aug. 19, 2019, wanting to do something meaningful and something that not a lot of people are willing to do. Hermostmemorableexperiencefromboot camp happened near the end. “Earning my EGA was important to me,”shesaid.“It’ssomethingIaccom-plished for myself and no one can take that journey away from me.” Duringherfreetime,Guerreroenjoysplaying basketball and volleyball, and she likes playing the violin. After graduation, she hopes to receive orderstoJapan.“I’veheardthatit’sagreat experience from other Marines,” she said.

Marines, Sailors aboard MCB-Camp Butler take part in Security Augmentation Force Training

U.S. EMBASSy, BAghDAD, iRAq

Photo by Sgt. Kyle Talbot A U.S. Marine posts security at an M240-B medium machine gun post in response to protests at the Baghdad Embassy Compound in Iraq, Jan. 1.

MARiNE CORPS RECRUiT DEPOT PARRiS iSlAND, S.C.

Photo by Gunnery Sgt. Tyler Hlavac Marine Corps recruits practice basic fighting stances during a martial arts training session at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C.

“The Marines get trained in the use of force, interpersonal communication skills, how

to conduct a vehicle search, as well as the use of a M1014 shotgun, flexy cuffs and

oleoresin capsicum spray.”

-- Sgt. Clarix Garcia,Camp Foster PMO training NCO in charge

6 The Skyline ~ January 9, 2020

NAS Meridian, MS • Morale, Welfare and Recreation

Facility Phone Numbers

On the Web: www.navymwrmeridian.com Facebook: www.Facebook.com/MWRMeridian

Fitness Center 679-2379 Liberty Center 679-3760 Tickets 679-3773McCain Rec Center 679-2651Equipment Rental 679-2609

Library 679-2326Rudders Pub & Grill 679-2780CDC/CDH 679-2652SAC 679-5252SLO 679-2473

P.C. Golf Course 679-2526 MWR Admin. 679-2551MWR Jobs Line 679-2467

Coming Attractions

McCain Rec Center

Thursday, January 95 p.m., Playing with Fire, PG7 p.m., Terminator: Dark Fate, R

Friday, January 105 p.m., Gemini Man, PG137 p.m., Zombieland: Double Tap, R

Saturday, January 111 p.m., Maleficent, PG5 p.m., All Eyez on Me, R7:30 p.m., Zombieland: Double Tap, R

Sunday, January 121 p.m., Playing with Fire, PG5 p.m., Terminator: Dark Fate, R7:15 p.m., All Eyez on Me, R

Monday, January 135 p.m., Hotel Transylvania 3, PG7 p.m., 300, R

Tuesday, January 145 p.m., A Bug’s Life, G7 p.m., Act of Valor, R

Wednesday, January 155 p.m., Aladdin (2019), PG7:10 p.m., Blair Witch, R

Thursday, January 165 p.m., Hotel Transylvania 3, PG7 p.m., 300, R

Coming Attractions

McCain Rec Center

Friday, January 175 p.m., A Bug’s Life, G7 p.m., Act of Valor, R

Saturday, January 181 p.m., Aladdin (2019), PG5 p.m., Blair Witch, R7 p.m., Act of Valor, R

Sunday, January 191 p.m., Hotel Transylvania 3, PG5 p.m., 300, R7 p.m., Blair Witch, R

Monday, January 205 p.m., Beauty & the Beast (2017), PG7:15 p.m., Black Panther, PG13

Tuesday, January 215 p.m., Brave, PG7 p.m., Face/Off, R

Wednesday, January 225 p.m., Captain Underpants, PG7 p.m., Fantastic Beasts..., PG13

Thursday, January 235 p.m., Beauty & the Beast (2017), PG7:15 p.m., Black Panther, PG13

Friday, January 245 p.m., Brave, PG7 p.m., Face/Off, R

SPONSORED BY:

GARRETT’SHUNTING & FISHING

OUTFITTERS

ROCK HOUSEGUN & PAWN

*NO NAVY ENDORSEMENT IMPLIED

OVER $800 IN PRIZES!

RUDDERS CHALLENGE COINSARE AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE AT RUDDERS PUB & GRILL AND THE PONTA CREEK COMPLEX!

30+ years of service

Joyce Grace, who is retiring from the Child Development Center after 32 years of service, was presented with a 30-year pin and a Certificate of Retirement by NAS Meridian Commanding Officer Brian Horstman last week. Grace said she was grateful to parents for “allowing [her] to be a part of their children’s lives.” She will miss her “family” of co-workers and children at the Child Development Cen-ter, and looks forward to “checking in from time to time.”


Listings in the “Sale...Or” column are free for anyone who works at NAS Meridian. You can purchase an ad for a business or organization in “The Skyline,” by calling The Meridian Star at 601-693-1551 -- ask for Advertising or email: [email protected]

7

Sale... Or2018 Mallard M185

Travel Trailer. Sleeps 4 with 1 queen bed/2 bunks. Easy to tow at 3,575 lbs; only selling because mili-tary member is moving overseas. Great living quarters with lake view. Hooked up and ready to live in, including cables, hoses, septic lines, plus the $500 towing kit. Ask-ing $17,000. Call 360-434-3035.

2010 Polaris Ranger 800XP Browning Edition, camo color. roof, wind-shield, winch, extra set of wheels/tires, and dual gun scabbard. Asking $7,800. Call Pete at 601-678-3458.

2013 Harley David-son Switchback, Asking $8,000; only one owner; still under warranty; all maintenance done by Har-ley Davidson. Call 505-658-1675.

1982 Harley Davidson FLHS, 80 C.I. Shovel-head Engine w/4-speed Transmission. Nice An-tique Bike -- just can’t ride anymore. Call 601-527-9756/601-986-8378.

2018 Subaru Outback 2.5 limited, 12k miles; Subaru safety features and warranties included. Asking $29k. Call 601-

480-5100.2017 Dodge Challeng-

er, grey with racing stripe. $24k. Call 601-880-3237.

2017 Camaro Gen6, 4k miles, 50th anniversary limited addition; like-new condition. $38,500. Call 601-686-1027.

2012 Honda Civic, 47k miles, $9,200. Call 601-490-3835.

For Rent: 3BD/3BA fur-nished home, includes wa-ter, trash, electric, gas, ba-sic monthly maid service dusting, bathrooms and kitchen and lawn mowing. 20 Miles to NAS Meridian. Rent $1800 w/ $1k depos-it. Call Michelle Carlson

601 507-9238.For Rent: 2BD/1BA

Refurbished barn in quiet country setting. Two out-door decks. Small yard. W/D hookups. Propane gas stove. Electric H/AC. West Lauderdale School District. 20 miles from NAS. Call 601-681-4482.

For Rent: 3BD/3BA fur-nished home on 3.2 acres. Washer and dryer and pool table included. Two-car garage. $1800 per month includes water, garbage, gas and electricity. $1000 deposit required. 20 min-utes to base. Will rent to 3 single military members or a family. Owner is retired military. Call Michelle at 601-679-2824 or 601-507-

9238.For Rent: 2BD/1BA on

Rabbit Rd from Lauder-dale. 1000 sq.ft. home, one area, car porch, Pro-pane heat, window unit air. $400/month. Call Beaty at 601-527-0739.

15ft Tripod swivel seat deer stand new in the box. Asking $300; call Willy at 601-880-3237.

Primos 360 Ground Blind new in the box. Ask-ing $300; call Willy at 601-880-3237.

Bose A20 Aviation Headset w/Bluetooth like new barely used (2 hrs max usage) in perfect

working condition. Paid $1,103.90 have original receipt and all original boxing and case. Asking $700 OBO. Call Kim at 601-480-7181.

Two Black storage trunks all brass closures; $10 each. Call 601-482-2276.

To submit an item to the “Sale...Or” column, e-mail adam.prince@

navy.mil. Deadline is the Thursday prior to

publication.

MOTORCYCLES/GEAR/ATV

AUTOMOBilES, ETC.

HOMES/APARTMENTS

MiSCEllANEOUS

BOATS/CAMPERS/TRAILERS

Fitness

navymwrmeridian.com

Contact Tim Lockey @ (601) 679-2367 for registration.

RACQUETBALLLEAGUE PLAY: February 3 - April 30REGISTRATION: January 1-31

OPEN LEAGUE/30+ LEAGUE

Captain’s Cup leagues are open to Active Duty personnel, Retirees, Reservists, DoD Civilians, Dependents and Contractors working full-time on the installation.

Participants must be 18 or older.

SPONSORED BY:

*NO NAVY ENDORSEMENT IMPLIED

SHRED COMPETITIONJANUARY 1 - MARCH 25 AT THE FITNESS CENTER

THIS RACE IS OPEN TO ALL ACTIVE DUTY PERSONNEL, RETIREES, RESERVISTS, DOD CIVILIANS, THEIR DEPENDENTS AND GUESTS, AND

CONTRACTORS WORKING FULL TIME ON THE INSTALLATION.

REGISTER AT THE FITNESS CENTER OR AT THE EVENT. CALL (601) 679-2379 FOR MORE INFORMATION.

navymwrmeridian.com

MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY

Group Exercise ScheduleGroup Exercise Classes are held in the Multi-Use room (or outside, weather permitting).

All classes are FREE to Active Duty personnel, Retirees, Reservists, DoD Civilians, their Dependents and Guests, and Contractors working full-time on the installation. For more information call (601) 679-2379.

PERSONAL TRAINING AND NOFFS/COMMAND PT SESSIONS ALSO AVAILABLE. CONTACT FITNESS CENTER FOR MORE DETAILS.

Spin1100 w/ Kristen

HIIT1100 w/ Kristen

HIIT1100 w/ Kristen

TRX1645 w/ Kristen

Spin1100 w/ Kristen

TRX1645 w/ Kristen

HIIT1645 w/ Kristen

HIIT1100 w/ Kristen

HIIT1545 w/ Kristen

HIIT1645 w/ Kristen

Crime tips

Crime Prevention Surveys of living quarters, non-appropriated fund/retail activities and at Morale, Welfare and Recreation facilities are conducted by

Physical Security Division (PSD) or the Crime Prevention Coordinator (on request). Contact PSD at

[email protected] to schedule.

****CRIME TIPS is a new program from NAS Meridian’s Physical Security department - highlighting tips and other important information to help maintain the safest living and working environment possible onboard the installation. If you have questions or suggestions, call Jodie Hurlbut, Physical Security Specialist, at 601-679-2566

Photo by Penny RandallSenior Chief Jesse henson, left, joins AC3 hall and ACAN Kelly who are the team who won the Door Decorating Contest at Air Operations. The creative door includes funny photos of various military members on elf bodies and other holiday creations from movie scenes.

Holiday Door Decorating 1st place


By Shannon Collins DoD News, Defense Media Activity

MarineCorps Sgt.AshtynHammersays she grew up on the back of a horse. Now she spends her days riding and caring for them, as a member of the Ma-rine Corps Mounted Color Guard — the only remaining mounted color guard in the Corps.

How does it feel to be a member of the last mounted color guard in the Marine Corps?

It’s such an incredible opportunity,andI’msogratefultobeabletorepre-sent theMarineCorps inaway that’sincredibly special to me. I grew up on the back of a horse, so being able to ride horses while in the signature dress blue uniformislikeadreamcometrue.I’mhonored to be one of the few Marines that get the prestigious honor to be a part of the team and present the colors while on horseback.

What’s it like going from working on attack helicopters to working with horses?

Working on attack helicopters was a challenging, yet rewarding field. ...Workingwithhorseshasitsownuniquechallenges.It’sjustasrewardingandisverydeartomyheart.It’ssupercooltome that I went from working on some of thebestwarfightingtechnologyandequipment we have today to workingwith what was considered the peak of maneuver warfare [horses] from over a hundred years ago.

How do people react when people see the mounted color guard?

Well, as someone who has seen them in action as a civilian — from before my time in the Marine Corps — it is a mesmerizing experience. I was compet-ingatthe[ColoradoProfessionalRodeoAssociation] finals in Grand Junction,Colorado, when I saw them. Everyone was transfixed on their every move asthey entered the arena. Before the an-nouncer could even ask people to stand for the national anthem, everyone was already standing, hats removed and handsovertheirhearts.Youcouldheareach step the four palomino mustangs took ... [as they] headed to the center of the arena. After the national anthem played, the mounted color guard started to exit the arena with every eye still on them, showing every ounce of respect with hats still removed until they were completely out of the arena. It is still one of my favorite memories, and I believe that those people who get to witness the Marine Corps’ last remainingmountedcolor guard have experienced similar moments.

What do you hope to accomplish with the mounted color guard?

Coming from a unit that not many people had heard of, I want to help broaden the public’s knowledge. ... Themounted color guard is an incredible recruiting tool that has limitless poten-tial, which I look forward to expanding. I believe the mounted color guard is one of the best ways to interact with the public and create phenomenal relation-ships and connections with prominent

members of the community throughout the United States. I just hope that I can have a small part in getting the word out

that such a special unit exists. I can’twait to come to a town near you!

Photo by Rob Jackson, Marine Corps Sgt. Ashtyn Hammer, with the Marine Corps Mounted Color Guard, rounds the arena during the opening ceremony of the Marine Corps Rodeo, held at Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, Calif., Sept. 21, 2019.

By C. Todd LopezDoD News

U.S.forcesinIraqwereattackedDec.27near Kirkuk by Kataeb Hezbollah, a groupwith links to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard’s Quds Force. The attack, which in-volved31 rocketsfired,killed oneAmericancivilian contractor and injured four American service members as well as two partners in the Iraqi security forces, Defense SecretaryDr.MarkT.Espersaid. “The U.S. military responded, and took de-fensiveactionsbystrikingKHbasesinwest-ern IraqandwesternSyria, strikinga com-bination of the command and control [center] or weapons caches with considerable effect,” EspersaidduringapressgaggleinthePen-tagontoday.“Theattackswerequitesuccess-ful.” InthewakeoftheKHattack,thedefensedepartment has deployed an infantry bat-talion—about750soldiers—fromtheIm-mediateResponseForceofthe82ndAirborneDivision to theU.S.CentralCommandareaofoperations.AdditionalforcesfromtheIRFprepared to deploy over the next several days, the defense secretary said. “They are deploying to the region to, on or-der, reinforce our facilities and to protect our personnel in the region as called upon, and obviously they have the capability to perform other missions as well, as need be,” Esper said.

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Army Gen. Mark A. Milley described the forces from the 82nd Airborne as a “general-purpose unit,” on a defensive mission, adding that such a unit exists precisely for the types of situations it was called upon to respond to. “It’sgoingoverthere,it’sgoingtobeinKu-wait, and they may have follow-on missions in other places,” Milley said. “But their purpose is defensive in nature, to defend U.S. person-nel,equipmentandfacilities.” The chairman said other U.S. forces have been alerted, though no decision has yet been made to deploy those forces. “But there are a variety of forces that are alerted and prepared if necessary depending on the situation, as we move forward,” Milley said. Esper said “provocative behavior” by Irani-an-backed Shia militias has been ongoing for severalmonths.TheDec.27attackwas thelatest, he said, adding that while he believes the attacks may continue, the U.S. is ready. “They’ve been shooting rockets, indirectfire, any type of things, attacking ourbasesfor months now,” the defense secretary said. “Inthelasttwo[months]alonewe’ve[had]nearly a dozen attacks against U.S. forces, against our coalition partners. So do I think theymaydosomething[else?]Yes.Andtheywill likely regret it. And we are prepared to exercise self-defense, and we are prepared to deter further bad behavior from these groups, all of which are sponsored, and directed and rescued by Iran,” Esper said.

Esper: Kataeb Hezbollah will ‘likely regret’ further provocative behavior

=Aviationsustain record readiness levels, we con-tinue to learn not just here, but every-where.” From the beginning of NSS-A lastyear, changes were made in the process-es in aviation maintenance that reaped many rewards, including centralizing the production control centers in squadronsand at maintenance depots, improving communication across the enterprise to remove barriers at all levels, and build-ing a culture of solving problems and con-stantly driving to solutions. “It’s beena total teameffort fromallthemenandwomenatFRCWestandev-eryoneatNASLemoore,”saidCapt.BretWashburn, commanding officer of FleetReadiness CenterWest (FRCW). FRCWwas one primary focus in the efforts to streamline aircraft maintenance as it is located at the West Coast master jet base ofF/A-18HornetsandF-35s,inLemoore,California. Lt.Gen.StevenRudder,deputycom-mandant of the Marine Corps (Aviation), was especially impressed with how things are moving and that things just keep get-ting better.“There is great work being done here at Lemoore,anditishistoryinthemaking,”Rudder said. AtFRCSouthwest atNASNorth Is-land, there was a clear indication of what can be accomplished through improving maintenance processes and communica-tion in the system; in the V-22 Osprey section they have all the supplies and parts on station they needed to perform necessary maintenance on the aircraft anytime, serving as a model for future ef-

forts. Bill Taylor, assistant deputy comman-dant for aviation, HeadquartersMarineCorps, emphasized the importance of fo-cusing on the long term viability of NSS-A, and how it will remain successful going forward. “What has made the difference is not the leadership, it’s the deckplate,” saidTaylor. “True process improvement has to outlive leadership.” ViceAdmiralDeWolfeMiller,III,com-mander Naval Air Forces, emphasizedthat Naval Aviation worked hard and changed the way it does business. “We watched this grow from the begin-ning and we should feel good about what we see here around us,” said Miller, the Navy’s8thAirBoss. “Everyone involvedin this effort had a hand in a major win for naval aviation and our nation.” Miller also emphasized that the mis-sionisn’tcomplete,andthatit’scalledtheNaval‘Sustainment’Systemforareason. “NSS-A is about long term success,” he said. “We have proven that we can not only sustain increased mission capable rates, but surge to unprecedented levels whenaskedtodoso.Weflyandfightasa team, and we will work together every day toensureour force is ready tofightand win.” BoGs provide opportunities for senior Naval Aviation leadership to visit loca-tionsacrossthefleetandhavein-personconversations with the teams who work there, creating more visibility into activi-ties or needs across the NAE. They al-low NAE members to raise issues some of which are solved on site and some of which are taken for additional action.

=Winging Those earning wings include: aLt. j.g. Shawn Keone Madden, USN,selected E-2/C-2 and underwent multi-engine training in Corpus Christi, Texas, before beginning training in Meridian. Madden will be continuing training in Norfolk, Virginia, and will fly either theE-2Hawkeyeor theC-2Greyhound. Hecarrierqualified in theT-45Caboard theUSS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) Dec. 12.Madden completed Advanced Jet FlightTrainingwithTrainingSquadronNine.aLt. j.g. Cyril Gilles Maillard, FrenchNavy, earned threeNavy “E’s” for bomb-ing accuracy duringAdvanced Jet FlightTraining.HecarrierqualifiedintheT-45CaboardtheUSSJohnC.Stennis(CVN74)Nov 1. Maillard completed Advanced Jet Flight Training with Training SquadronSeven.a1st Lt. John Carl Rogers, USMC, wasnamed to the Commodore’s List and re-ceived a Commendation for Outstanding Academic Achievement during PrimaryFlightTraining.HeearnedtwoNavy“E’s”for bombing accuracy during Advanced Jet FlightTraining.HecarrierqualifiedintheT-45C aboard the USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) Oct. 31. Rogers completedAd-vancedJetFlightTrainingwithTrainingSquadronNine.aLt.j.g.MichaelJamesSheuy,USN,wasnamed to the Commodore’s List duringPrimary Flight Training and earned twoNavy “E’s” for bombing accuracy duringAdvanced Jet Flight Training. He car-rierqualifiedintheT-45CaboardtheUSSJohnC.Stennis (CVN74)Nov. 1. Sheuycompleted Advanced Jet Flight TrainingwithTrainingSquadronSeven.

aLt.j.g.MartinVidall,FrenchNavy,aftercollege graduation Vidali, completed one yearasOfficerof theDeckof theFrenchDestroyerJeanBart.HewasnamedtotheCommodore’s List during Primary FlightTraining. During Advanced Jet FlightTraining, he earned four Navy “E’s” forbombingaccuracyandwasVT-7’sStudentoftheQuarterforThirdQuarterof2019.He carrier qualified in the T-45C aboardtheUSS JohnC. Stennis (CVN 74)Nov.1. Vidali completed Advanced Jet FlightTrainingwithTrainingSquadronSeven.

Photo by Army Capt. Robyn J. Haake Soldiers assigned to 2nd Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, deploy from Pope Army Airfield, N.C., Jan. 1. Elements of the Immediate Response Force mobilized for deployment to the U.S. Central Command area of operations in response to increased threat levels against U.S. personnel and facilities.

Face of Defense: Marine riding proud


FFSC BriefsTo register for any of the following workshops, please call the FFSC at 601-679-2360. The class may not be presented if no one registers, so make sure you call

if you’re interested! Can’t make the scheduled time? Call anyway - the workshop facilitator may be able to

work with you one-on-one, give you materials, or let you know when the class will be offered again. All classes held at FFSC (Building 405) unless otherwise noted

Sexual Assault Victim Advocate TrainingJan. 13-17 from 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.The Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program (SAPR) is seeking nominees from Commands to serve in the important and pivotal role of SAPR Victim Advocate. DOD 6495.02 requires a 24-hour, 7-day a week sexual assault response capability for all military installations. SAPR Victim Advocates (VAs) are trained to meet this requirement. Victim Advocates’ core responsibilities include: *Providing victims with an empathetic guide through the medical, legal and investigative procedures; *Minimizing the possibility that victims will be re-victimized by medical, judicial and military systems; *Avoiding duplication of advocacy efforts by using effective programs already in place. Victim Advocates are volunteers willing to be on call and available to respond to a sexual assault. VAs must participate in a minimum of 40 hours of initial training and obtain national certification as a Sexual Assault Victim Advocate. The training serves to provide well-informed, sympathetic support, to minimize further trauma by preparing victims for interviews and examinations, and to ensure victim safety. A highly responsible individual is sought for this duty due to the potential for harm if discretion and good judgment are not utilized. Please provide names to POC Diana Shields, SARC, 679-2360, or by e-mail: [email protected].

Transition SeminarJan. 27-31 from 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.Military personnel who are voluntarily or involuntarily separating or retiring and are within 180 days of separating are required to attend this seminar, held at the FFSC. You may also attend if you’re up to 24 months away from your separation or retirement date. The following topics will be covered: résumés, job search skills, job interviewing, employment (state & federal), veterans’ benefits, pay & travel, movement of household goods, TRICARE, emotional transition to separation, financial planning, forms & documents, benefits & services, military obligations, and more. You must see your command career counselor or Admin Officer before attending the Transition class to obtain several documents that are required for the seminar.

Boots to Business: Entrepreneurship TrackJan. 30-31 from 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.This 2-day entrepreneurial class, taught by a SBA Representative/SBA Resource Partner will educate participants on business fundamental and guide them through an initial feasibility analysis of their business concept. Spouses are invited to sign up for this class. Call 601-679-2360 to register.

LSSR Brandon GranbergNTTC Student

“Exceed expectations -- for myself and others.”

Pfc. Shanisse Mclain MATSS-1 Student

“To not slack off and keep my priorities straight.”

Larry HughesFacilities - Cleaning

“Focusonbeinghappy.”

IT’S YOUR TURN...

Fleet & Family Support Center

The week we asked, “What is your New Year’s Resolution?”By Adam Prince

Pvt. Christopher SalasMATSS-1 student

“To be more open to new things and getting better at my craft.”

LSSR Jennifer CanoNTTC Student

“To be at the top of my class.”

Thenewyearisatimeforreflectiononouraccom-plishments—both personally and professionally—inthe one just gone by. It is also a time to set new goals. Unfortunately, the goals set in January often become February’sbrokenpromises.Toavoid getting stuck in a pat-tern of setting resolutions that are doomed to fail year after year, try a new approach this year. Since the new year signifies aperiod of renewal, begin with a fresh outlook. We fre-quently are criti-cal of ourselves as we set New Year’sresolutions. By do-ing so, we start off on the wrong foot by send-ing a negative message to ourselves. Is it no wonder that we then fail to live up to our own harsh, and often unreal-istic, expectations? Startoffbytakingtimetoreflectonyouraccom-plishments from the past year. Even the smallest ofsuccessescount.Ifitwasadifficultyear,giveyourselfcreditforsurvivingit.Docountyourblessings.Therealways is someone less fortunate than yourself. Set goals for yourself Then, why not focus upon one primary goal? Make a commitmenttoyourselftoenjoyyourlifemore.That’sright. Rather than begrudgingly telling yourself once again that, “this is the year I will go on another diet and lose those 20 pounds,” perhaps a more positive ap-proach is to set a goal of changing your attitude about your life. This way, you will make lifestyle changes that will ultimately help you lose weight and keep it off for life! Certainly it is important to set goals in specificterms and have a step-by-step plan by which to accom-plishthosegoals.Yetresearchersalsohavefoundthatone of the most important characteristics common

to successful people is their ability to create a posi-tive mental picture of themselves accomplishing their goals! In other words, we can get bogged down in the details and lose sight of the big picture. So if your goal

is weight loss, you should first consciously devel-

op a mental picture of how you will look, feel and behave once you’ve reached yourideal weight. That im-age will then be what you strive for rather than solely focusing on the bathroom scale notches. It’scommonforhu-man beings to stub-bornly try the same approaches time and time again to reach a goal. That’s com-mendable. However,new approaches are

often what ultimately makes the difference.

While there are no guarantees you will be successful, considertryinganewangleonNewYear’sresolutions.Don’twastetimewaiting for inspiration.Begin,andthe inspiration will follow!

here are a few suggestions to help you enjoy the gift of life more:a Take up a new hobby.a Experience more sunrises and sunsets.a Turn off the TV.a Write more letters (preferably by hand rather than e-mail).a Volunteer (we do receive by giving to others).a Eat by candlelight as often as possible.a Letchildrenteachyouhowtoreallyplayandlaughagain.a Make something with your own hands.a Go on more picnics.a Give yourself a compliment every day.a Slow down and, oh yes, smell the roses.

--From FFSC

A fresh look on a new year

Sailors moving overseas are now eligible to use their Government Travel Credit Card (GTCC) as part of a pilot program launched this summer initially only forpermanentchangeof station (PCS)moves in theU.S. Theexpansionofthepilot,announcedinNAVAD-MIN 297/19, is part of theNavy’s ongoing transfor-mation efforts for a modernized pay and personnel system under Sailor 2025; the program is designed to reduce out-of-pocket expenses for Sailors and families whileexecutingPCStravel. The pilot program allows the Sailor to use their GTCCasanoptiontopayforarangeofPCSrelatedexpenses. These expenses include temporary lodg-ing, fuel for personal vehicles and meals en route to the new duty station as well as Dislocation Allow-ance(DLA)-relatedexpensesnecessarytoestablishahousehold.AllcommercialairfareforPCStravelwillcontinue to be booked through the Navy PassengerTransportationOffice(NAVPTO). Eligibility now includes Continental U.S. (CONUS) and Outside Continental U.S. (OCONUS) active duty

Sailors conducting PCSmoves with 45 days or lessTemporaryDutyUnderInstruction(TEMDUINS)enroute to their permanent duty station. The initial pilot program was launched Aug. 6,2019, for active-duty existing GTCC cardholders who were conducting PCS between two U.S. based dutystations with fewer than 30 days travel. Since the pro-gramlaunched,severalkeystosuccesswereidentifiedduringthefirstphase. Theseinclude:ensuringtheSailorverifiesthesta-tusoftheGTCCandthecard’sassignedpinpriortouse,workingwith theCommandPayandPersonnelAdministrator (CPPA) to understand entitlements,andverifyingwith theAgencyProgramCoordinator(APC) that theGTCChas been placed in amissioncritical status. Additionally, if any issues with the cardoccurduringthePCS,thecardholdercancontacttheirformerAPC,callMyNavyCareerCenterat833-330-MNCC (6622), email MNCC at [email protected], or call Citibank on the emergency numbers listed on the back of the card.

--From Navy Personnel Command Public Affairs

Sailors PCSing overseas now eligible for GTCC pilot program


=Veterans Access for Caregivers Caregivers must present an eligibility let-terfromtheVAOfficeofCommunityCarethatindicates they are the primary family caregiver for an eligible veteran under the Program ofComprehensiveAssistanceforFamilyCaregiv-ers and are eligible for these privileges, paired with an acceptable identification credential,suchasaREALID-compliantdriver’slicenseora U.S. passport. These credentials will need to be presented at MWR facilities and point-of-sale locations. Caregivers will be issued a DBIDScard given them access to shop for the veteran.NAS Meridian MWR programs This patronage expansion applies to Navy MWRCategoryC andB programs atDepart-ment of Defense (DoD) and Department ofHomeland Security (DHS) installations in theUnited States and in the U.S. territories and possessions.• Golf• MealsatRuddersPub&Grill• Bowling• Autoshopskills• Vehiclestorageandstorageunits• Ridingstables• Recreationequipmentrentalsandresale• Ticketsandtravel• Specialevents/entertainmentwhereopentoall rate categories. It does not apply to MWR Category A ac-tivities that are funded primarily with appro-priationsorotherwiserestricted,suchasfitnesscenters, liberty centers, outdoor recreational ar-

eas, libraries, and child development programs. Our newly eligible veterans also can use AmericanForcesTravel.com, MWR’s exclu-sive travel-booking website. Patrons can ac-cess the website at www.americanforcestravel.com/?refclickid=navyvetarticle.

Commissary and Navy Exchange stores Newly authorized veterans will be able to use the Commissary onboard NAS Meridian. TheDefenseCommissarySystemiscongressio-nally mandated to charge all current and new patrons a 5 percent surcharge on all purchases topayforcommissaryconstruction,equipmentand maintenance. Even with the surcharge, patrons receive an averageworldwidesavingsof23.7percentovercommercial grocery stores. Additional fees of the total transaction will be included for credit and debit card purchases, and a 1.9 percent on creditcardspurchasesand0.5percenton(PIN)debit cards purchases. In addition, veterans may shop at the Navy Exchange stores in Meridian. The only unau-thorized items will be military uniform related items. For more information about obtainingaVHICoraletterfromVeteransAffairs,visityourlocalVAmedicalfacilityorcall1-877-222-VETS (8387), Monday through Friday from 8a.m. until 8 p.m., Eastern Standard Time. Formore information aboutNASMeridianprocedures,callthePublicAffairsOfficeat601-679-2602/2318. For information about MWRfacilitiesonboardNASMeridian,call601-679-2551.

MWR Facilities 601-679-2551• Golf• Meals at Rudders Pub & Grill• Bowling • Auto shop skills • Vehicle storage and storage units • Riding stables • Recreation equipment rentals and resale • Tickets and travel • Special events/entertainment where open to all rate categories.

Rudders Pub & Grill601-679-2780Monday-Thursday: 6:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. / 5 p.m.-10 p.m.Friday: 6:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. / 5 p.m.-midnightSaturday: 11 a.m.-midnightSunday: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Commissary 601-679-2554/3320Sunday and Monday: CLOSEDTuesday-Friday: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.Saturday: 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Navy Federal Credit Union888-842-6328Monday-Friday: 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Navy ExchangeMain Store601-679-2665Sunday: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.Monday-Friday: 10 a.m.-7 p.m.Saturday: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Mini Mart601-679-2568Sunday: 10 a.m.-7 p.m.Monday-Friday: 9 a.m.-8 p.m.Saturday: 9 a.m.-7 p.m.

For Veterans:• Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC) that displays your eligibility category: (Purple Heart, former POW or service-connected)• State issued driver’s license or REAL- ID card• Proof of insurance • Registration for your vehicle

For Caregivers:• Eligibility documents from the VA• State issued driver’s license or REAL- ID card• Proof of insurance • Registration for your vehicle.

For assistance with VA-related documents, contact: Mississippi Department of Veterans Affairs at 601-362-4471; Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs at 205-933-8101 or visit www.va.gov/healthbenefits/vhic

Required Documents