Patrol squadrons return to NAS Jax VP-16 'War Eagles' VP-26 'Tridents' - DVIDS

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Patrol squadrons return to NAS Jax VP-16 'War Eagles' VP-26 'Tridents' - DVIDS
November
                                                                                                                    2020

Patrol squadrons return to NAS Jax
VP-16 ‘War Eagles’ VP-26 ‘Tridents’

                                                    Photos by Kaylee Larocque  Lt. William Fitts of Patrol Squadron 26, hugs his children, from
AWO2 Justin Bilbrey meets his daughter Aaliyah for the first time              left, Crawford, Campbell and William after returning from a seven-
as his wife Brandi holds a welcome home sign. Bilbrey, attached to             month deployment to Japan and El Salvador.
Patrol Squadron 16, returned home from Bahrain after a seven-month From VP-26 Public Affairs
deployment.
From VP-16 Public Affairs                                                        The first of five P-8As with aviators and Sailors from Patrol Squadron
                                                                               (VP) 26 are returning home to NAS Jacksonville following a seven-
 The “War Eagles” of Patrol Squadron (VP) 16 and the “Lightning Riders”        month deployment to Japan and El Salvador in support of U.S. 4th and
of Mobile Tactical Operations Center-1 begin their transition back to Naval    7th Fleets.
Air Station Jacksonville Nov. 2 after a pioneering seven-month deployment        In April 2020, in the midst of the challenges associated with COVID,
to the 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility (AOR). The War Eagles were
                                                                               VP-26 safely departed for an operational deployment to the U.S.
attached to Commander, Task Force (CTF) 57 and 67 providing widespread
                                                                               4th Fleet area of responsibility (AOR), spearheading the president’s
intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance and anti-submarine warfare
                                                                               initiative for an increased commitment against elicit narcotics. Shortly
capability to the fleet.
                                                                               thereafter, the rest of the squadron reported to the U.S. 7th Fleet AOR.
 Squadron elements assigned to CTF-57 operated out of Bahrain in the
Middle East. Squadron elements assigned to CTF-67 primarily operated out of During this deployment, VP-26 flew a wide variety of airborne
NAS Sigonella, Italy. Altogether, VP-16 deployed across five detachment sites anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare, intelligence, surveillance,
spanning three continents and over 7,400 miles flying missions in support of and reconnaissance, maritime domain awareness, search and rescue,
operations Freedom’s Sentinel, Sentinel Sentry (5th Fleet), Sea Guardian, and and theater security cooperation missions. Overcoming the ongoing
Assurance Measure (6th Fleet).                                                 pandemic specter, they supported multiple exercises, including Valiant
 The War Eagles worked relentlessly to maintain mission readiness and          Shield, where they were the first VP squadron to complete multiple air-
provide theater security for the Joint Force Air Component Commander.          to-air refueling evolutions in a single flight. VP-26 expertly conducted
During their deployment, VP-16’s maintenance professionals, maintained         air-to-air refueling during ASW missions in the Pacific Command AOR
seven P-8A Poseidon aircraft requiring over 20,000 man hours. These flights supporting the theater anti-submarine warfare commander. VP-26 also
included the Poseidon’s air-to-air refueling capability and supported over     provided critical direct support to the USS Ronald Reagan and Nimitz
200 maritime navigational transits through major global chokepoints for six    Carrier Strike Groups in the Pacific AOR.
different countries and two U.S. carrier strike groups.                          “Only through the steadfast dedication and unwavering commitment
 “I am proud of every single War Eagle and Lightning Rider for their           of every Trident were we able to have such a successful deployment
dedication, perseverance, and resiliency during this challenging and dynamic across the entire globe,” said VP-26 Commanding Officer Cmdr. Mike
deployment,” said Cmdr. Kevin Kraemer, commanding officer of VP-16.            Steffens. “Backed by the service and sacrifice of our families and
Jacksonville will be a welcoming sight for the War Eagles, eight of which will friends back home, thank you to all who made the last seven months’
be returning as new fathers. The VP-8 “Fighting Tigers” are relieving the War accomplishments possible.”
Eagles in Bahrain.

                              ó          Sustain • Enable • Support ó
Patrol squadrons return to NAS Jax VP-16 'War Eagles' VP-26 'Tridents' - DVIDS
Fleet Readiness Center
Southeast breaks ground
on new avionics facility
By Ben Hayes and Ashley Lombardo
Fleet Readiness Center Southeast Public Affairs

 Leadership from Fleet Readiness Center Southeast (FRCSE),
Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Naval Facilities Engineering
Command Southeast (NAVFAC SE) and contractors, broke
ground on a new avionics facility.
 Recently approved for a military construction (MILCON)
project to build a new Targeting and Surveillance System
Facility, FRCSE Commanding Officer Col. Fred Schenk stated                                                                             Photos by Ashley Lombardo
his vision for the innovative new building.                          The Naval Facilities Engineering Command Southeast and Fleet Readiness Center
 “We are enthusiastic about the future of this facility and          Southeast (FRCSE) team break ground for the new P672 Targeting & Surveillance
                                                                     System Facility during a ceremony held at Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Nov. 18.
the technology it will hold,” he said. “Our ability to support
                                                                     The facility is designed to provide state-of-the-art technology and will greatly increase
the latest and greatest in military advancement cannot be
                                                                     the capacity of avionics work at FRCSE.
understated. It’s a tremendously exciting time for us as this is
the first major MILCON project awarded to FRCSE in nearly
30 years.”
 NAVFAC SE awarded the contract to Archer Western earlier this year and
excavation is already underway.
 The new building is intended to support the F-35 Lightening II, P-8A Poseidon,
and other state-of-the-art aircraft. It will greatly increase the capacity of avionics
work at the command – streamlining existing product lines and preparing for future
systems.
 “FRCSE’s ability to perform maintenance on the avionics systems of the F-35 has
been a substantial determining factor for the justification to erect this facility,” said
Danny Simon, FRCSE’s director for facility and plant planning. “While the F-35 is
just one of the programs that will be supported in the new building, it will likely be
the most predominant.”
 While most of the infrastructure across FRCSE ranges between 60 to 80 years old,
to include the current avionics facility, creating a new high-tech facility capable of
maintaining avionics systems for the F-35 will be a major factor on whether FRCSE
will be awarded future workload. The F-35, also known as a Joint Strike Fighter, has
one of the most complex avionics systems in service.
 This state-of-the-art facility is being designed purposefully with input from the
avionics professionals who are also the end users of the facility.
 Cody Stepko, a FRCSE avionics process engineer and project lead for planning
and construction, is working hand-in-hand with architects and planners to ensure the
building is thoughtfully designed.
 “Through modernizing our infrastructure and pioneering new technology, this
facility will help bring us in line with the industry standard,” said Stepko. “This
building will be a new breath of life for avionics maintenance at Fleet Readiness          NAS Jacksonville Commanding Officer Capt. Brian Weiss speaks
                                                                                           during the groundbreaking ceremony for the Fleet Readiness
Center Southeast.”
                                                                                           Center Southeast P672 Targeting & Surveillance System Facility
 The 50,000-square-foot, $26.5 million facility is expected to be completed in late
                                                                                           Military Construction Project, Nov. 18.
2022.

                                                                The Jax A ir News is a bi-weekly digital
                                                              publication for members of the military
                                                              services. Contents of the Jax A ir News do
  Commanding Officer             Public Affairs Officer       not necessarily reflect the official views
    Capt. Brian Weiss              Kaylee LaRocque            of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government,
                                                              Department of Defense or Department of the
    Executive Officer
                                Public Affairs Specialist     Navy.
      Capt. Jeff Hill                Julie M. Lucas             The deadline for all story and photo
       Command                           Editor               submissions is close of business the Friday
      Master Chief                    MC2(SW/IW)              before publication.
                                      Nick A. Grim              Questions or comments can be directed
     CMDCM(AW/SW)
       Dylan Inger                   Staff Writer             to the editor at (904) 542-3531 or email
                                  MM2 Symonne Patrick         JaxAirNews@gmail.com.
Patrol squadrons return to NAS Jax VP-16 'War Eagles' VP-26 'Tridents' - DVIDS
Bintz takes command of the ‘Proud Warriors’

                                                                                    Two MH-60R helicopters piloted by Helicopter Maritime
                                                          Photos by Kaylee LaRocque Strike Squadron 72 Commanding Officer Cmdr. John Nadder
Capt. Richard Whitfield, commander, Helicopter Maritime Strike (HSM) Wing, and HSM-72 Executive Officer Cmdr. Derek Bintz hover over
Atlantic, left, rips Cmdr. Derek Bintz’s HSM-72 executive officer patch off after the St. Johns River as part of the squadron’s change of com-
he assumed command of the squadron, Nov. 10. The change of command was              mand ceremony, Nov. 10. Bintz relieved Nadder as HSM-72’s
conducted in MH-60R helicopters hovering over the St. John’s River.                 30th commanding officer.
From HSM-72 Public Affairs

  Cmdr. Derek Bintz relieved Cmdr. John Nadder
as commanding officer of the Helicopter Maritime
Strike Squadron (HSM) 72 “Proud Warriors”
aboard Naval Air Station (NAS) Jacksonville,
Nov. 10.
  The ceremony, held inflight over the St. Johns
River, marked the conclusion of a successful tour
for Nadder, under whose leadership the squadron
continued its award-winning tradition by earning
the Navy Battle “E” Award, CNO Safety Award,
Squadron Blue “M” Award, and the Golden
Wrench award.
  Bintz’s 16 months as HSM-72’s executive
officer, along with the knowledge and experience
gained throughout his career, have prepared him
for the demanding roll of commanding officer. In
his remarks, Bintz thanked the many people who
have supported him and helped shape him for his
time in command.
  A native of Naperville, Illinois, Binz graduated    Capt. Richard Whitfield, commander, Helicopter Maritime Strike (HSM) Wing, Atlantic, right,
from the University of Illinois in 2003 with          presents the Meritorious Service Medal to Cmdr. John Nadder, former HSM-72 commanding
a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical            officer, during the squadron’s change of command ceremony, Nov. 10.
Engineering and holds a master's degree in            Air Training and Operating Procedures               Strategic Command at Offutt Air Force Base,
National Security and Strategic Studies from the      Standardization officer. He was named the 2010      Nebraska, as the executive assistant to the director
Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island.           Training Wing 5 and VT-2 Instructor Pilot of the    of global operations.
Following commissioning, Bintz was designated
                                                      Year for 2010.                                       Bintz's personal awards include the Defense
a naval aviator in April 2005 and selected to serve
                                                        Bintz then reported to USS George H.W. Bush       Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation
as an SH-60B “Seahawk” helicopter pilot with
                                                      (CVN-77) in 2011, where he was assigned as a        Medal (four awards), Navy Achievement Medal,
Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light (HSL)
                                                      catapult and arresting gear officer. He also served and various unit and campaign awards.
44 in Mayport, Florida.
  Bintz’s operational tours include HSL-              as the arresting gear branch officer, V-1 division   “We will continue the tradition of excellence
44 as quality assurance officer, detachment           officer and the air department training officer.    that HSM-72 is known for around the world and
maintenance officer and detachment operations           In June 2014, Bintz reported as a department      we will continue to live up to the Proud Warrior
officer in support of Operation Enduring              head to HSM-70 at NAS Jacksonville, Florida.        motto, ‘Everyone Succeeds,’” said Bintz.
Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and                 He first served as the safety officer while          HSM-72’s new executive officer is Cmdr. Patrick
multinational exercises including BALTOPS and         deployed on USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-              Blind. A native of Virginia Beach, Virginia, Blind
Neptune Warrior. In 2008, Bintz was selected as       77) in support of Operation Inherent Resolve.       graduated from the United States Naval Academy
Pilot of Year.                                        Additionally, he served as the Detachment 4         in 2003 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in
  He then transferred to VT-2 serving as an           officer in charge, assistant maintenance officer    History. His last assignment prior to reporting to
instructor pilot flying the T-34C Turbomentor         and maintenance officer.                            HSM-72 was with United States Cyber Command
and as the safety department head and Naval            In September 2016, Bintz reported to U.S.          in the J7, Training and Exercises directorate.
Patrol squadrons return to NAS Jax VP-16 'War Eagles' VP-26 'Tridents' - DVIDS
NAVFAC Southeast announces
                                                                                                         reflection of simply doing your job. Every single
                                                                                                         day presents opportunities for learning and
                                                                                                         you must use them to continue enthusiastically

2021 Engineers of the Year
                                                                                                         striving and moving forward.”
                                                                                                           Hernandez is the facility sustainment branch
                                                                                                         head within the NAVFAC Southeast Core
                                                                                                         Public Works Business Line. He manages the
                                                                                                         inspections and certifications of over 2,800
                                                                                                         elevators, escalators, auto lifts, boilers and
                                                                                                         Unfired Pressure Vessels.
                                                                                                           “It is a great honor to be selected as NAVFAC
                                                                                                         Southeast’s Civilian Engineer of the Year since
                                                                                                         there are so many talented professionals in our
                                                                                                         command,” said Hernandez. “I would like to
                                                                                                         thank all of the public works supervisors, my
                                                                                                         team, my wife and daughter, and also my parents
                                                                                                         who encouraged me to become an engineer.”
                                                                                                           Over the past three years, he has designed or
                                                                                                         managed over 250 facility projects worth over
                                                                                                         $40 million including roofing and heating,
                                                                                                         ventilation and air-conditioning projects. He
                                                                                                         specializes in retro-commissioning, a process
                                                                                                         of improving efficiency in existing mechanical
                                                                                                         systems.
                                                                                                           Most recently, Hernandez and his team
                                                                                                         completed a phased Naval Station Guantanamo
                                                                                                         Bay, Cuba housing improvement project that
                                                                                                         determined the root cause of high humidity
        Military Engineer of the Year                       Civilian Engineer of the Year                problems and then developed a schedule to repair
   Ens. Laura Burnett                                    Omar Hernandez                                  over 420 military family housing units with over
                                                                                                         $1 million in design cost avoidance. His actions
From NAVFAC Southeast Public Affairs                of the $19.8 million Chief of Naval Air Training     directly contributed to improving the quality of
                                                    Headquarters renovation project. She negotiated      life for hundreds of Navy families.
  Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command $450,000 of outstanding contract modifications,             Additionally, he has supported hurricane
(NAVFAC) Southeast Commanding Officer Capt. and drove the project to substantial completion              recovery efforts in Key West, Texas, and Panama
Jorge Cuadros announced his selections for the      by managing commissioning of critical building       City, providing damage assessments for over 400
2021 NAVFAC Southeast Military and Civilian         systems. Accomplishing it all virtually to prevent
                                                                                                         facilities and executing joint scoping of projects
Engineer of the Year awards, Oct. 28.               potential COVID-19 delays.
                                                                                                         with the contractor valued at over $150 million.
  NAVFAC Southeast’s Military Engineer of             Burnett led the challenging $44.2 million
                                                                                                           Hernandez is a member of the National
the Year was awarded to Construction Manager        design-build contract of a three story, 117,000
Ensign Laura Burnett and Omar Hernandez,            square foot, state-of-the art facility for           Organization of Remediators and Mold Inspectors.
facilities sustainment branch supervisor, was       Training Wing Four, which directly supports            “Be passionate on what you do, always give
selected as the Civilian Engineer of the Year.      the increased readiness of the naval aviation        your best and be customer oriented,” said
  “I congratulate both of these individuals         community. Coordinating with several                 Hernandez. “Never say you can’t achieve
for their hard work in earning this most            key stakeholders, she identified missing             something. Be proactive and leverage from those
prestigious achievement,” said Cuadros. “Their      information in a site survey that led to the         that can mentor you.”
accomplishments continue to show the dedication discovery of additional communications                     Hernandez encourages other engineers to
to service and great work our command does day infrastructure that was required to complete              evaluate where they best fit in the organization,
in and day out to support the nation’s warfighter.” the project.                                         which will ultimately lead to a successful and
  Burnett is a military construction manager         Burnett is a member of American Society of          rewarding career.
stationed at Public Works Department (PWD)          Civil Engineering, Society of American Military        NAVFAC Headquarters selects a civilian and
Corpus Christi, Texas.                              Engineers, and the Envision Sustainability
                                                                                                         military engineer of the year from the award
  “Being recognized as NAVFAC Southeast’s           Professional – Institute for Sustainable
                                                                                                         winners of each regional NAVFAC command.
Military Engineer of the Year was, first and        Infrastructure. She also volunteers for a non-
                                                                                                         These two individuals are then nominated as the
foremost, a validation of my efforts and that is    profit, all volunteer organization dedicated to
                                                                                                         NAVFAC candidates for the prestigious National
priceless,” said Burnett. “Most of all, this award  improving the lives of Siberian Huskies and
is a down payment on my future efforts as a Civil owners through advocacy, education and support.        Society of Professional Engineers Federal
Engineer Corps officer, and I cannot think of any    When asked to provide advice to fellow              Engineer of the Year award.
better encouragement and inspiration to continue shipmates, Burnett stated everyone has unique             Both engineers have proven to be truly among
forward with the opportunities that will become     strengths and the key is to keep your professional   the elite in the Navy and the federal government
available.”                                         and personal self-esteem intact.                     and will now compete for the NAVFAC
  Upon reporting to the PWD, she took control        “At the end of the day, being outstanding is a      Headquarters Engineer of the Year award.
Patrol squadrons return to NAS Jax VP-16 'War Eagles' VP-26 'Tridents' - DVIDS
NAS Jax names Civilians of the Quarter                                                                         hard work each and every day. From standing
                                                                                                               watch at the entry control points in all kinds of
                                                                                                               weather, to responding to calls, and conducting
                                                                                                               patrol operations.”
                                                                                                                 Glass states that all this would not be possible
                                                                                                               without the backing of his wife, Sherry. “I want to
                                                                                                               thank her for always supporting me and pushing
                                                                                                               me to achieve my goals. Without her, I am sure I
                                                                                                               would not be where I am today. Secondly, I want
                                                                                                               to thank all of the men and women in the NAS Jax
                                                                                                               Security Operations. They are the ones who do all
                                                                                                               of the hard work every day,” he said.
                                                                                                                 His future goals are to retire in about 10 years
                                                                                                               and travel. “Right now, that’s a bit limited but I
                                                                                                               enjoy visiting the different springs in the area,”
                                                                                                               he said.
                                                                                                                         Junior Civilian- Rebecca Munro:
                                                                                                                 Rebecca Munro, bingo manager at Dewey’s
                                                                                                               Restaurant at Naval Air Station Jacksonville
                                                                                                               is recognized as Junior Civilian of the Quarter
                                                                                                               (3rd quarter).
                                                                                                                 A native of Jacksonville, Florida, Munro started
                                                                                                               working for the NAS Jax Morale, Welfare and
                                                                                                               Recreation (MWR) Department 21 years ago. “I
        Senior Civilian of the Quarter                         Junior Civilian of the Quarter                  take care of all invoices to make sure they are
Lt. Col. Michael Glass                                        Rebecca Munro                                    paid on time, keep the Dewey's staff members
                                                                                                               up-to-date on mandatory training, and managed
By Kaylee LaRocque                                      October 2018,” said Glass.
                                                                                                               the Bingo Hall when another employee was
NAS Jax Public Affairs Officer                            As chief of police, Glass manages the Security
                                                                                                               unable to work.”
                                                        Operations Division. I review and approve police
                                                                                                                 Munro was selected for the award for stepping in
           Senior Civilian- Michael Glass:              summaries, desk journals, traffic citations and
                                                                                                               to assist the River Cove Catering and Conference
 Naval Air Station Jacksonville (NAS Jax) Chief         police reports,” he said. “I draft detailed security   Center food operations during leadership
of Police Michael Glass has been selected as            planning measures and provide security protection      changes within MWR. She also oversees
Senior Civilian of the Quarter (3rd quarter).           for special dignitaries who visit the installation.    training and payroll for staff members. And, she
 A native of Warsaw, Indiana, Glass is a 20-year        My job consists of everything from checking IDs        was instrumental in reopening Dewey’s while
Navy veteran. “I retired in December 2006 as            at the gates to responding to an incident.”            following strict COVID restrictions ensuring
an aviation structural mechanic first class. My         He also oversees the civilian work force               customers and staff were protected.
last four years were spent working at the Naval         administrative details and is a hiring manager for       “It is amazing to know that what I do is
Support Activity Mid-South Security Department          the department.                                        appreciated,” said Munro. “It’s a true honor to be
in Millington, Tennessee,” he said. “After I              Glass was selected Senior Civilian of the Quarter    recognized. I would really like to thank my former
retired, I started working there as a civilian police   for coordinating security measures for several         boss and friend John Duncan III for giving me the
officer. Over the years, I worked my way up and         NAS Jax VIP visits, the Republican National            opportunity and teaching me almost everything he
was promoted to sergeant and lieutenant.”               Convention and the president’s rally at Cecil          knows. I also appreciate our business office staff
  Glass also continued his education earning            Field. He also revamped departmental procedures        and human resources for helping whenever I call
Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice/Police            to adapt to COVID-19 restrictions keeping his          them. And, a special thanks goes to the crew of
Administration. In October 2015, he was                 team 100 percent operational.                          Dewey's - my second family.”
promoted to chief of police.                              “I am very appreciative on just being                  In the future, Munro plans to retire from
  “After 15 years in Millington, my wife and I          nominated, let alone being selected,” said Glass.      MWR. When she’s not hard at work, Munro
were looking for a change so I accepted the chief       “I supervise the Security Operations Division but      spends time with her daughter, grandchildren
of police position at NAS Jax and reported here in      it’s the people in the division who do all of the      and her fur babies.

                                                                                     NAS Jax leaders participate
                                                                                       in City of Jacksonville’s
                                                                                        Veterans Day Parade
                                                                                                                                                  Courtesy Photo
                                                                                    From left, Naval Air Station Jacksonville (NAS Jax) Command Master
                                                                                    Chief Dylan Inger, NAS Jax Security Manager Jerry Yost and NAS
                                                                                    Jax Commanding Officer Capt. Brian Weiss participated in the City
                                                                                    of Jacksonville's annual Veterans Day Parade, Nov. 11. Yost was
                                                                                    recognized as the NAS Jax Senior Civilian of the Year.
Patrol squadrons return to NAS Jax VP-16 'War Eagles' VP-26 'Tridents' - DVIDS
Fleet and Family
                                                                                                                                            Support Center
                                                                                                                                            Education Services
                                                                                                                                            Facilitator Jodi
                                                                                                                                            Arden unpacks
                                                                                                                                            some of her items
                                                                                                                                            while moving
                                                                                                                                            into her office in
                                                                                                                                            Building 27, Oct.
                                                                                                                                            29.
                                                                  Courtesy photo
Naval Air Station Jacksonville Sailors work to unload furniture
and supplies into the new Fleet and Family Support Center (FFSC)
                                                                                                                 Photo by Kaylee LaRocque
location at Building 27. The FFSC has relocated to Building 27 on
Enterprise Avenue.

FFSC gets new director, moves to new facility
By Staff                                                “I left the farm in Missouri at 18 – the Navy is     one of the most important offered.
                                                       all I’ve known my entire adult life. So when the       “Young families starting out traditionally have
 After spending nearly 25 years in Building 554,       opportunity came up to continue my naval service      family close by to assist and provide support such
the Naval Air Station Jacksonville Fleet and Family    as a civilian, it was a blessing and again a no-      as parents or grandparents. Military members
Support Center (FFSC) is moving into a newly           brainer,” Downs said.                                 rarely get assigned near any family members
renovated facility. The new location is Building 27     Downs arrived in October and his first order as      who could mentor and provide support to young
on Enterprise Avenue behind Public Works.              director was to pack up the numerous offices and      parents,” said Downs.
 “The old building was one of the original base        change locations.                                      Downs remains hopeful, as his staff’s goals are to
buildings and gave more than 70 years of service        “Our customers and staff deserve better and          mentor future Navy leaders.
to the installation,” said Ron Downs, the new          Building 27 has turned out fabulously,” he said.       “As the new director here, our focus is to export
FFSC director. “Also, being an older facility, it       According to Downs, due to COVID-19, all             as many of our trainings and services as we can.
was constantly in need of upkeep. We can provide       programs will continue online, via telephone or       The workload and manning shortfalls levied on our
a better service to clients in this beautiful newly-   virtually.                                            Sailors and commands makes it a real challenge to
renovated facility.”                                   “Our plan going forward is to slowly integrate        drop everything and come over to our facility for
 Downs is not new to the Navy. After serving           more face-to-face classes and counseling services.    a class or training, so we continue to standby and
                                                       There is no substitute for face-to-face service and   support when we can,” he said.
25 years of active duty and retiring as a master
                                                                                                              The new facility will start seeing clients Nov. 30.
chief, Downs took a job with Commander, Navy           interaction with staff and clients,” Downs said.
                                                                                                             For questions or to enroll in a program, call 542-
Installation Command in Washington, D.C.,              Downs said one of the most underused programs is
                                                                                                             5745 or email JAXS_NAS_FamilyServiceCenter@
working in Fleet and Family Readiness.                 the New Parent Support program, which he feels is
                                                                                                             navy.mil.

          USO holiday
       program continues
   The NAS Jacksonville and NS Mayport USO
 offices are collecting donations of holiday
 food items (canned pumpkin, cranberry sauce,
 stuffing, canned veggies, etc.), commissary/
 grocery store gift cards, and monetary donations
 to support their Holiday Food Basket program.
 If you’d like to help military families in need,
 contact Joyce Schellhorn (jschellhorn@uso.org)
 at NS Mayport or Yolanda Coakley (ycoakley@
 uso.org) at NAS Jacksonville. Both centers are
 also accepting donations of new, unwrapped toys
 for the USO Giving Tree program benefitting
 military children this holiday season. The USO
 Giving Tree tags will be located at the NAS
 Jacksonville and NS Mayport Navy Exchange
 Stores soon. Donations for either program can
 be made in person or online at: http://jaxuso.org.
Patrol squadrons return to NAS Jax VP-16 'War Eagles' VP-26 'Tridents' - DVIDS
NAS Jax Chapel and USO
                                                        host annual Thankgiving
                                                              Food Drive-By
                                                        Photos by MC2 (SW/IW) Nick A. Grim

CSCS John Carter (left), and ADC Josh Doss,
of Fleet Readiness Center Southeast, load food                                                           Gerry Warren, director of Jacksonville
onto a truck to take to Sailors in need at their    Naval Air Station Jacksonville Chapel staff          Internation Airport USO, loads food into a
command, during the annual NAS Jacksonville         and NAS Jax USO volunteers load food into            truck during the annual NAS Jacksonville
Thanksgiving Food Drive at the base chapel,         cars during the annual NAS Jacksonville              Thanksgiving Food Drive at the base chapel,
Nov. 17. The food drive, hosted by NAS Jax          Thanksgiving Food Drive at the base chapel,          Nov. 17. The food drive, hosted by NAS Jax
Chapel and the USO is to help military families     Nov. 17. The food drive is to help military          Chapel and the USO is to help military families
in need during the holiday season.                  families in need during the holiday season.          in need during the holiday season.

113 Nease NJROTC cadets promoted at fall ceremony

                                                                                                 Cadet Miles Mitidieri receives a special trophy from
                                                                                Courtesy Photos Capt. Scott LaRochelle during the Nease High School
Bravo Company renders honors for the presentation of colors during the Nease High School Navy Junior Reserve Office Training Corps Fall
Navy Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps Fall Promotions and Awards Ceremony, Nov. 10. Promotions and Awards Ceremony at Nease High
                                                   Cadet company commanders directed             School, Nov. 10. Mitidieri received the trophy for
From Nease High School NJROTC
                                                                                                 skillfully crashing the unit’s drone into a brick wall the
                                                  formal military ceremonies during their
                                                                                                 day prior to its first official drone competition of 2020.
  Under a COVID environment of small crowds,      respective class periods. As part of their
social distancing and masks, Nease High School    hands-on leadership training, cadets                     Proud parents pinned the new ranks on their
Navy Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps        organized, planned and executed the entire              cadets  during the ceremony. “Nease NJROTC is
(NJROTC) held four separate promotion and         ceremonies.                                             a living, breathing leadership lab,” said Senior
award ceremonies across two days recognizing       “Attending (Area-12) Leadership Academy last           Naval Science Instructor Capt. Scott LaRochelle.
the cadet corps for exceptional performance       summer helped me prepare for moments like               “Watching these cadets shine under the spotlight
during the first quarter.                         this,” said Charlie Company Commander Kaitlyn           makes this job all the more worthwhile.”
 Of the 236 cadet battalion, 113 cadets earned    Boggs. “Sitting in a classroom and learning how          The most prestigious awards presented during the
promotions for successfully passing a rigorous    to put together a major ceremony on paper is            day were the Sailors of the Quarter awards – given
promotion exam as well as meeting conduct and     one thing, but actually leading one in front of the     to the top performers from the past quarter. Cadets
performance requirements.                         parents and school administrators was both nerve- Hailey Pitches and Alaina Hussung received these
 Additionally, cadets received more than 650      racking and exhilarating.”                              esteemed awards.
individual awards for exceptional performance and  In addition to Boggs, Company Commanders                 Nease NJROTC has been recognized as the #1
achievement in the areas of community service,    Brandon Donovan, Jamila Rodriguez and Donovan NJROTC unit in Area-12 (northern Florida and
school service, aptitude, personal appearance and Chapman led their cadets in ceremonies replete          state of Georgia) for three consecutive years, and
participation on one or more of the program’s     with the formal customs and courtesies seen in          was the #5 Most Outstanding Unit in the Nation
competitive teams.                                active duty events.                                     in 2018.
Patrol squadrons return to NAS Jax VP-16 'War Eagles' VP-26 'Tridents' - DVIDS
NAVFAC updates name
      to reflect technical and
      acquisition mission
      requirements                                                      the Assistant Secretary of the Navy (Energy,
                                                                        Installations & Environment) as the Navy and
                                                                                                                                 Command, and their associated warfare centers and
                                                                                                                                 field activities."
      From NAVFAC Southeast Public Affairs                              Marine Corps real estate acquisition, management,          The name change commenced Oct. 26 with an
                                                                        and disposal authority, NAVFAC also aligns with          official announcement to the command's leadership
                                                                        the Assistant Secretary of the Navy (Research,           and is being implemented as quickly as possible
        Naval Facilities Engineering Command changed
                                                                        Development & Acquisition) as the Navy and               across the enterprise.
      its name to Naval Facilities Engineering Systems
                                                                        Marine Corps acquisition and technical authority           NAVFAC is the oldest of the Navy’s systems
      Command (NAVFAC) Oct. 26 to more accurately
                                                                        for construction and facilities engineering programs,    commands, having been established as the Bureau of
      reflect its well-established nature and mission as the
                                                                        developing, procuring, and sustaining shore facilities   Yards and Docks (BuDocks) in August 1842. At its
      naval shore facilities, base operating support, and
                                                                        and environmental solutions in order to enable           creation, BuDocks supported a shore establishment
      expeditionary engineering systems command that
                                                                        warfighter lethality.                                    of seven ship repair yards, four ordnance magazines,
      delivers life-cycle technical and acquisition solutions
                                                                          "This change better reflects the full spectrum         and five naval stations. Its officers are commissioned
      aligned to Fleet and Marine Corps priorities.
                                                                        of critical work that NAVFAC does to enable              in the Navy Civil Engineer Corps, which came
        The name change includes the NAVFAC Southeast
                                                                        warfighter lethality, and it helps current and           into being in March 1867. During the 1966
      office located in Jacksonville, Florida. This
                                                                        potential future supported activities understand the     reorganization of the Department of Navy, BuDocks
      office provides services throughout the southeast
                                                                        technical and procurement authority assigned to          became NAVFAC.
      from Texas, east to South Carolina, and south
                                                                        NAVFAC," said Rear Adm. John Korka, commander              The Navy’s systems commands are materiel
      to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. NAVFAC Southeast
                                                                        of NAVFAC and chief of Civil Engineers. "In              agencies who are responsible for the design,
      delivers and maintains quality, sustainable facilities,
                                                                        addition, this name change brings NAVFAC in              construction and maintenance of assigned military
      acquires and manages capabilities for the Navy's
                                                                        line with the naming convention of other Navy            systems. Systems commands provide full life-cycle
      expeditionary combat forces, provides contingency
                                                                        systems commands, including Naval Sea Systems            support for a specific category of military hardware
      engineering response, and enables energy security
                                                                        Command, Naval Air Systems Command, Naval                or software, including research and development,
      and environmental stewardship.
                                                                        Information Warfare Systems Command, Naval               design, procurement, testing, repair and in-service
        In addition to NAVFAC's alignment with
                                                                        Supply Systems Command, Marine Corps Systems             engineering and logistics support.

                           2020-2021 SY Federal Impact Aid (FIA)
                       2020-2021  SY Federal Impact Aid (FIA)
                                   Survey Announcement
                                Survey Announcement
      Dear Community Stakeholder/Partner,

 ommunity  Stakeholder/Partner,
   The federal presence in our community and the significant tax exemptions available to federally
    connected personnel, businesses, and agencies identifies Duval County Public Schools (DCPS) as
deralanpresence     in ourforcommunity
        eligible applicant                  and the
                              the Federal Impact      significant tax exemptions available to federally
                                                 Aid grants.
cted As
     personnel,
        you may know,businesses,      andaid
                           federal impact  agencies
                                              programsidentifies
                                                         and grants Duval   County
                                                                     are designed      Public
                                                                                   to assist    Schools
                                                                                             local  school (DCPS) as
ible applicant for the Federal Impact Aid grants.
     districts that enroll federally connected students. The grants from  these programs   are critical for
      ensuring that all children in Duval County receive an excellent education.
u mayEach
        know,    federal impact aid programs and grants are designed to assist local school
          year, the district uses the Student-Parent Survey for Federal Impact Aid to identify our
ts that enrollconnected
     federally   federally    connected
                           students          students.
                                     and to support       The grants
                                                    our request          from
                                                                 for Impact  Aid these
                                                                                 funding.programs     are critical for
                                                                                          This year Duval
ng that all children in Duval County receive an excellent education.
     County  is participating in the DOE’s Electronic Data Collection Pilot program.  The transition from
      paper surveys to the electronic surveys will allow parents/guardians to complete one survey per
 ear, household
       the district
                 ratheruses    theform
                         than one   Student-Parent
                                         per child.      Survey for Federal Impact Aid to identify our
lly connected      students
      We are excited            andnew
                        about this    to collection
                                         supportprocess
                                                    our request
                                                           and ask for
                                                                    thatImpact   Aid funding.
                                                                         a Parent/Guardian        This year Duval
                                                                                            from every
y is participating
      household takeina thefew DOE’s
                                moments Electronic   Data
                                           to complete  the Collection   Pilot
                                                            online survey.   To program.    The transition
                                                                                ensure all families are      from
      surveyed, our new electronic survey is smartphone friendly and allows respondents to
surveys to the electronic surveys will allow parents/guardians to complete one survey per
      electronically sign, date, and submit the survey by computer or from their cell phone.
hold rather than one form per child.
      The survey can be accessed either in a parent/guardians FOCUS account, the district’s website,
e excited
     or by about
               clicking this
                          here:new  collection process and ask that a Parent/Guardian
                                 https://dcps.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3vHnU0VIyw9JcBD.      *It isfrom every
     important to note that the survey does not collect sensitive information about our parents, it
hold take a few moments to complete the online survey. To ensure all families are
     only asks for basic federal employment and/or housing information necessary to determine
 ed, eligibility
      our new         electronic survey is smartphone friendly and allows respondents to
                 for aid.
onically  sign, date, and submit the survey by computer or from their cell phone.
     For questions about Impact Aid or the online Parent Survey process, please call (904) 390-2221
      or email kelleyj@duvalschools.org. Additional information about the Federal Impact Aid Program
 rvey can be accessed either in a parent/guardians FOCUS account, the district’s website,
      grants is available on the U.S. Department’s Education website at DoED Impact Aid Programs.
   clicking here: https://dcps.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3vHnU0VIyw9JcBD. *It is
tant to note that the survey does not collect sensitive information about our parents, it
      Thank
 sks for     for your
          basic       continued
                   federal       support of Duval
                              employment          County housing
                                               and/or    Public Schools!
                                                                    information necessary to determine
 ity for aid.
Patrol squadrons return to NAS Jax VP-16 'War Eagles' VP-26 'Tridents' - DVIDS
The Navy’s new fitness test is here – What you need to know
From MC1 Mark D. Faram                                                            Also, it did not prepare Sailors to better accomplish shipboard tasks. In fact,
Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs                                           curl-ups have been linked to an increased risk of creating or aggravating
                                                                                  lower back injuries.
  The Navy will hold a single, six-month physical fitness assessment cycle          The forearm plank, however, is a functional movement required in 85 percent
during calendar year 2021, allowing the service to resume fitness testing         of regular shipboard tasks, including pushing, pulling, lifting and carrying.
while limiting Sailor exposure to COVID-19.                                         The forearm plank uses isometric contraction to activate key abdominal and
  The cycle was announced in NAVADMIN 304/20, released Nov. 18. The               trunk muscles, mimicking the main function of the abdominal musculature
message also detailed rollout plans for the forearm plank, which will replace     - to act as stabilizers to resist the spine from moving while strengthening the
the curl-up, and the 2000-meter row as a new optional cardio event.               lower back.
  “Shifting the PFA cycle to March allows Navy to execute the PFA after             Training for the forearm plank strengthens the body’s core, improves posture,
the primary influenza season, leveraging outdoor venues as the weather            and reduces the risk of lower back injuries throughout a Sailor’s career.
warms,” Vice Adm. John B Nowell, Jr., the chief of naval personnel, wrote           Because there is overlap in the muscle groups used for the push-up and the
in the message.                                                                   forearm plank, the decision was made to conduct the push-up event first,
  The shift also “acknowledges the fact that while vaccines and therapeutics      followed by the plank and cardio portions.
are expected to be available, their timing and impact are unknown.”                 This sequence was used in the initial tests. Researchers found it allows
  July’s NAVADMIN 193/20 announced the spring 2021 restart of the                 for maximum performance on the push-ups while limiting residual fatigue
normally semi-annual Navy Physical Fitness Assessments, after two cycles          during the forearm plank.
were canceled due to COVID-19. Out of an abundance of caution, the Navy             The cardio portion’s new addition will be a 2000-meter row on the
decided to proceed with the single cycle option for 2021 as the COVID crisis      “Concept-2 Rower.” The other options remain as the 12-min stationary cycle,
shows no signs of abating yet.                                                    500-yd/450-m swim, and 1.5-mile run.
  The Navy will resume two testing cycles once conditions permit. The               A non-weight bearing, low impact exercise, rowing reduces stress on the
Department of Defense has long mandated all services conduct annual               legs, while providing a great full-body cardio workout as it works 80 percent
fitness testing.                                                                  of the body's muscles.
  However, COVID-19 mitigation measures in place since the spring allow             A big benefit of the Concept-2 Rower is that it’s space saving and thus able
services to waive the requirement as a force protection measure. The message      to be easily used on any naval vessel as well as at shore installations.
notes that permission will carry over to allow Echelon II Commanders to             A detailed description of how each of the new events will be conducted
waive the 2021 cycle if COVID 19 prevents its safe execution.                     can be found in NAVADMIN 304/20. As previously announced, the Navy
  Where conditions permit, the message said, all Sailors must participate in      will give Sailors a one-cycle grace period for the forearm-plank. Though
the single 2020 cycle, meaning exemptions for scoring excellent or above          the event will be conducted during the 2021 Cycle, it won’t officially count
from the previous cycle will not apply.                                           until 2022.
  Going forward, however, those who score excellent or outstanding on the           Initial performance standards for scoring the forearm plank and 2000-meter
2021 PFA will be exempt from participation in the first PFA cycle of 2022.        row were developed by the Naval Health Research Center (NHRC) and
  The message also details how the new plank and 2000-meter row optional          are available to both individuals and command fitness leaders on the Navy
cardio events will fit into the physical testing process as well as how they’re   Physical Readiness Program website at https://www.public.navy.mil/bupers-
expected to be accomplished and graded. It’s the first major change to the        npc/support/21st_Century_Sailor/physical/Pages/default2.aspx.
assessment since the Navy introduced fitness assessments in the early 1980s.        For more news from Chief of Naval Personnel, follow us on Facebook
  Sailors have long complained about the curl-up. As Navy researchers             at https://www.facebook.com/mynavyhr, Twitter at https://twitter.com/
studied the exercise, they found it was not a true test of abdominal strength.    mynavyhr or visit https://www.navy.mil/cnp.
Patrol squadrons return to NAS Jax VP-16 'War Eagles' VP-26 'Tridents' - DVIDS
Navy Exchange Service                                 regular hiring, seasonal hiring has begun.
                                                      NEXCOM is hiring at least 600 more positions       GO JUICE: Perspective
                                                      for the holiday season. Some locations for these
Command is hiring over                                seasonal positions include Whidbey Island, WA;     By Lt. Zachary C. Parker, Navy Chaplain
                                                      Pensacola, FL; San Diego; Hampton Roads, VA;        A detailer wiped down the windshield for a
600 positions                                         Navy Region Southeast; Guam and Japan.
                                                       NEXCOM is comprised of six different
                                                                                                         man and his wife after their automatic car wash.
                                                                                                          When he finished, the man said, “Terrible job!
From NEXCOM Public Affairs                            business  lines and personnel include civilians,   Redo this now! It looks just as dirty as before
                                                      military spouses, Veterans, reservists, retirees   we started!”
 The Navy Exchange Service Command                    and active duty Navy. Around half of all            The detailer wiped it again.
(NEXCOM) is hiring for an array of diverse            NEXCOM associates have some type of                  The man in the car looked it over and in
positions with varying work schedules among           military affiliation, and most military spouses    frustration said, “My goodness! Can’t you
all six of its business lines. In addition to the     who are employed with NEXCOM have the              even clean a windshield? This window has
full-time and hourly open positions, seasonal         ability to maintain their position at the next     not changed.”
staffing is also in full-swing, with the goal to fill duty station. In fact, NEXCOM is a founding         The detailer did it again.
600 positions.                                        member of the Department of Defense Military        The man’s wife was sitting next to him in the
 “A job with NEXCOM is like being part of a           Spouse Employment Partnership (MSEP).              car, fuming. She reached over, pulled off his
family 14,000 deep that stretches all over the        MSEP helps connects military spouses with          glasses, wiped off the smudges, and gave them
world,” said Tonia Morgan, Director of Talent         hundreds of partner employers who have             back to him. Problem solved.
Acquisition for NEXCOM. “We pride ourselves committed to recruit, hire, promote and retain                During this pandemic, we have all become a bit
on our mission to serve those who wear the            military spouses.                                  fatigued. We may find ourselves being more on
uniform, committed to the quality of life benefit,     With the onset of the worldwide pandemic,         edge, more agitated, and more judgmental than
and have a culture of inclusivity with a genuine NEXCOM’s Human Resources has had to                     we had been in the past.
interest to cultivate creativity.”                    get creative as they recruit for all available      Sometimes it is all in our perspective of things.
 Positions are currently available in                 positions. Most of their efforts are local with     We may actually be the problem.
merchandising, marketing, retail, hospitality,        a heightened uptick in virtual job fairs and        During this holiday season, let’s all find a new,
food services, textile design, distribution and       use of online job finding websites. For more       refreshing perspective.
so many more. In addition to the command’s            information on a career with NEXCOM visit           One of thanksgiving, one of hope, and one
                                                      www.navyexchange.jobs.                             of love.  

NEX offers new
buy online, in-
store pick-up
program
From NEXCOM Public Affairs

  The Navy Exchange Service
Command (NEXCOM) rolled out
its new buy online, pick up in store
program at several NEX locations                     myNavyExchange.com and look for items               customer who works on base and can pick up the
Nov 5. The Pick/Up Program currently allows          eligible for in-store pickup. After adding the      order on the way home,” he added,
authorized customers to order over 200 items on      item(s) to the shopping cart, select which store      The Pick/Up Program is currently available
myNavyExchange.com/PickUp and pick it up             to pick up the items from and then pay and place    at NEX Norfolk, NEX Oceana and NEX Little
inside their local NEX store.                        the order.                                          Creek – Ft. Story, Va.; NEX Pearl Harbor; NEX
   “More and more customers are looking for            The customer will receive an email                San Diego; NEX Bethesda, Md.; and NEX
the convenience, ease and safety of shopping         confirmation once the order has been received       Jacksonville and Pensacola, Fla.
from home, but don’t mind picking up their           and another when it is ready to be picked up.         In 2021, the Pick/Up Program will be rolled
merchandise inside a store,” said Roshella           Once the order is ready, head to the NEX with       out to other NEX locations, including overseas
Ricker, NEXCOM’s director, E-Commerce,               the email confirmation and CAC card. Park in        stores. Some products that will be eligible for
Merchandising & Marketing Strategy. “Our             a reserved Pick/Up parking space and go to the      purchase once the program is expanded include
Pick/Up Program is our latest initiative to          customer service desk or other designated pick      cleaning supplies, baby items including
allow customers to shop the way they are most        up area. Customers won’t be charged for the         diapers, formula and wipes, personal and
comfortable, either in person or online.”            merchandise until it is picked up from the NEX.     beauty care, health essentials, snacks.
   Currently, customers can purchase a variety of      “While we strive to have orders available as        NEXCOM also offers a secondary program
holiday gifts including items for the home, tools,   soon as possible, during the holiday season, we     to help with holiday shopping called the Drive/
toys, computers, wearable technology, personal       are promising orders to be ready for pick up        Up Program. This separate program allows
care items, jewelry, handbags and apparel.           within 48 hours,” said Ricker.                      customers to order merchandise online for
Throughout the holiday season, more items will         “However, as we continue to enhance the           curbside delivery at their local NEX. Customers
be added. There is no minimum purchase or            program, our ultimate goal is to have the order     can order products online and a NEX associate
surcharge for using the Pick/Up Program.             ready in two hours as we continue to expand the     will deliver the order to the customer’s vehicle
   To use the Pick/Up Program, shop                  offering online. This program is ideal for the      upon arrival.
Navy: ROM Is Official                                of duty, which is chargeable. Sailors who are on
                                                     leave are considered to be in a non-duty status as
                                                                                                           force health protection measures are in place.
                                                                                                           Commanders must also ensure sufficient

Duty Status                                          they are away from their place of duty.
                                                       Command Pay/Personnel Administrators
                                                                                                           command readiness and retain the authority to
                                                                                                           disapprove leave as appropriate.
                                                     (CPPAs) should have seen Pay and Personnel             Hardship Duty Pay-Restriction of Movement
From MCC Michael Russell
                                                     Information Bulletin (PPIB) 20-34, released           (HDP-ROM) is not authorized for Sailors in a leave
MyNavy HR
                                                     Nov. 4. This bulletin explains that ROM due to        status. However, a Sailor who is placed in ROM
                                                     COVID-19 is a mandatory, official duty function       due to COVID-19 exposure during leave may
 Since the COVID-19 pandemicbegan, the
                                                     performed by Sailors with their ROM location          receive HDP-ROM if all eligibility criteria are met.
Fleet has experienced someconfusion regarding
                                                     considered as the official duty location.              Members incorrectly charged leave while
placing Sailors ina Restriction of Movement
                                                       Sailors taking leave outside their designated       performing directed or ordered ROM should work
(ROM) statusand how that affects leave
                                                     permanent duty station area and directed to           with their command to have that leave restored.
 According to NAVADMIN 295/20, personnel
                                                     perform ROM upon their return from leave                For more information please review
executing a Restriction of Movement (ROM)
                                                     should not be charged leave for the ROM period.       NAVADMIN 295/20 at www.npc.navy.mil, or
are considered to be in a duty status and ROM
                                                       Commanders must conduct a risk assessment           contact MyNavy Career Center (MNCC) at
periods will not be charged as leave. Leave is
                                                     for service members requesting leave or liberty       1-833-330-6622, email - askmncc@navy.mil.
the authorized absence of a Sailor from a place
                                                     outside the local area to ensure appropriate

Open value commissary gift cards available at military exchanges
By Rick Brink                                                                   2018, and this past June, AAFES began selling them. Commissaries also sell the
DeCA Public Affairs Specialist                                                  NEX and AAFES gift cards.
                                                                                                 Here are some commissary gift card quick facts:
  During the holidays, giving and receiving commissary gift cards has never     -Gift cards are available at NEX and AAFES stores and at all
been easier with “open value” cards – the kind that lets you set your own       commissaries worldwide as well as through the DeCA website.
limit up to $300 – now available worldwide in commissaries, and at Navy         -Cards are good for five years from the date of purchase
Exchanges and Army and Air Force Exchanges.                                     -Cards purchased online incur a shipping and handling fee. There are no
  “Commissary gift cards are a very popular and generous means to give the      fees when the card is purchased in a store.
gift of groceries to authorized patrons – whether they are near or far,” said   -There is no limit to the number of gift cards that a purchaser can buy.
Bob Bunch, the Defense Commissary Agency’s gift card program manager.           It’s recommended that organizations and activities consider buying their
“In the nine years since the program began, nearly 1.1 million cards have       gift cards online if they plan to purchase more than 50 cards at a time.
been purchased and more than $37.8 million in groceries have been bought        -Cards can be shipped anywhere in the United States. When shipping
using them, for a nearly 94-percent redemption rate.”                           outside the United States, an APO, FPO or DPO address must be used.
  The program has improved within the last year. Last year, the open value      -To check a gift card’s balance, go online and then click the “Check your
cards were new and available at only 40 commissaries, while the standard        balance” box.
fixed value $25 and $50 cards were available worldwide. Now the open value      -There’s a phone number, 877-988-4438, on the back of the gift cards
cards that let purchasers put any amount between $5 and $300, are available     that can handle customer service questions. Customers can also use this
worldwide. The Navy Exchanges had been selling the gift cards as well since     number to check the balance on their card.

     Tips to ensure safe arrival of                                                         Sexual Assault Prevention
           holiday packages                                                               and Response Victim Resources
                                                                                            The Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) Program
 With more boxes, parcels, and packages being shipped than ever before, it’s important    provides training and education to reduce the risk of sexual assault.
for mailers to select boxes and packing materials that can withstand mechanical            The SAPR Victim Advocates (SAPR VA) are trained personnel
processing at post office facilities, transportation overseas and manual processing at    who provides immediate support to victims of sexual assault by
servicing military post offices,” said Tommie Tate, Deputy Postal Operations Manager,     explaining reporting options and assisting victims with getting
Naval Supply Systems Command.                                                             them the help they need.
 Tate asks mailers to remember three important words when deciding to ship a package:
                                                                                           Through the use of military and civilian advocates, the SAPR
                      1. BOX             2. CUSHION            3. TAPE
                                                                                          Program at NAS Jacksonville also provides confidential
                                                                                          information, assistance and advocacy to sexual assault victims on
 BOX -- Use a sturdy box to safely fit what you’re sending. Automated and personnel
                                                                                          a 24-hour basis.
handling of packages, long distance shipment, and other heavier packages may cause
damage to items sent in inadequate boxes. The importance of adequate packaging for
all mailed parcels is important throughout the mail stream.                                    If you are the victim of a sexual assault, please
 CUSHION -- Add plenty of cushioning to protect items and prevent them from                                        contact:
shifting. This can be in the form of air packs, packing peanuts, or crumpled newspaper.
When items bounce around in a box, there is an increased possibility they could be                  DOD Safe Helpline 1-877-995-5247 24/7
broken or damaged.                                                                                  for confidential support and resources.
 TAPE -- Tape your box so it closes flat on all sides. Reinforce the flaps with 2-inch
wide packing tape. Do not use cord, string, or twine because they can get caught in           NAS Jax Sexual Assault on-call Victim Advocate,
postal equipment                                                                                   at (904) 910-9075 or (904) 239-9291
 Sailors should also be mindful of holiday mailing deadlines, which can be found here:
https://www.navy.mil/Press-Office/News-Stories/Article/2371394/navsup-reminds-                          Victims of sexual assault may
sailors-of-2020-holiday-peak-mailing-season-deadlines/                                                   also contact the installation
 For more information, visit the U.S. Postal Service website: https://www.usps.com/             Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC)
ship/packages.htm or contact your local postal representative.                                                at (904) 548-7789.
MWR hosts Fall Fest for                                                                                                 Tonda Black of the NAS
Month of the Military Family                                                                                              Jacksonville Morale, Welfare
                                                                                                                          and Recreation Department,
                                                                                                                          helps Abby Kudla pick
           Photos by Kaylee LaRocque                                                                                      a ticket for a chance to
                                                                                                                          win Jacksonville Jaguars
                                                                                                                          memorabilia or tickets to
                                                                                                                          Catty Shack Ranch Animal
                                                                                                                          Sanctuary during the Month
                                                                                                                          of the Military Family Fall
                                                                                                                          Fest, Nov. 14.

                                                                                                                      Veronica Ortiz, left, of the NAS Jax
                                                                                                                      Morale, Welfare and Recreation
                                                                                                                      Department welcomes a military
                                                                                                                      family to the Month of the
                                                                                                                      Military Family Fall Fest as Stilt
                                                                                                                      Lady Julie Brush demonstrates
                                                                                                                      her stiltwalking skills, Nov. 14.
Glenda Howell of Art-Z-Faces, creates giant bubbles                                                                   The event offered entertainment
as a military family drives by during the Month of                                                                    and free arts and crafts gift bags.
the Military Family Fall Fest, Nov. 14. The event was                                                                 Guests also had the opportunity
organized by the NAS Jacksonville Morale, Welfare and                                                                 to win prizes. The event was
Recreation Community Recreation Department and                                                                        sponsored by Catty Shack Ranch
sponsored by Catty Shack Ranch Animal Sanctuary.
               Dine on the Go                       Community Recreation Tickets & Travel Office        Kennedy Space Center Annual Pass: $64.50 - $79.25.
  Order to go meals from Mulligan’s between         Call 542-3318 or email at nasjaxtickets@navy.mil    Sea World Orlando Military Special: $52.75 (limit 4
                                                                                                        tickets per member ID).
6:30 a.m. - 5:15 p.m. every day. Download the
                                                           VyStar Veteran;s Memorial Arena:             Spanish Military Hospital Museum: $5 - $8.75.
Dine on the Go Jacksonville app or visit https:// Michael Buble—March 25, 2021: $166.50.                St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zipline: $37, Park
www.dineonthegojacksonville.com/ to place your    Backstreet Boys— June 21, 2021: $115.                 admission $10.50 - $16.
order.                                            Impractical Jokers— July 11, 2021: $79 & $62.         St. Augustine Aquarium: $5 - $8. Snorkel Adventure
            Navy MWR ESPORTS                      Dude Perfect— July 31, 2021: $47.                     (Includes Admission) $32.
  Be part of the upcoming Navy MWR ESPORTS Jo Jo Siwa—Aug. 7, 2021: $58.                                St. Augustine Old Town Trolley: $12.25 - $23 BOGO.
                                                  Lit AF Tour ft. Martin Lawrence, Rickey Smiley &      St. Augustine Oldest Store Museum: $5.75 - $9.50.
Tournaments! Top winners receive gift cards.
                                                  more!- Oct. 1, 2021: $70.75.                          St. Augustine Pirates Museum: $4.50 - $8.25.
Cheer on Sailors & friends from around the        Jimmy Buffett—Dec. 7, 2021: $100.                     St. Augustine Potters Wax Museum: $5.75 - $9.50.
world as they compete in Navy MWR ESPORTS Elton John—Apr. 23, 2022: $78.50, $138, $246.                 Universal Orlando Military Special (Not available
events! Visit https://www.navymwr.org/programs/                     TIAA Bank Field:                    at the gate! Maximum of 6 tickets per valid military
esports to learn more.                            Hella Mega Tour ft. Green Day, Fallout Boy, and       ID): 2-Park, 5-Day Park to Park Ticket, Adult $208,
         Navy MWR Digital Library                 Weezer—July 31, 2021: $113.                           Child $203 (Redeemable through 12/31/20, ticket
                                                  Motley Crue, Def Leppard, and Poison w/Joan Jett &    expires on this date). Valid for 5 days of admission
  Offers thousands of free resources, including
                                                  the Blackhearts— Aug. 7, 2021: $121.25 & $186.        to Universal Studios Florida and Universal's Islands
printable activity sheets, feature films, music,                                                        of Adventure. “Eligible Service Members”-Active
hobbies & crafts, concerts, e-books, audio books,         Current Ticket Promotions Include:            or Retired U.S. Military, the National Guard or
documentaries, ancestry records, repair manuals   Adventure Landing Dry pass: $22.                      Reservists and the U.S. Coast Guard. Spouses of
& so much more! Open 24/7/365. Visit https://     Autobahn Indoor Speedway: $25 Gift Card - $20.        eligible service members also qualify with valid and
www.navymwrdigitallibrary.org to register.        $50 Gift Card - $40.                                  active U.S. Military ID. Department of Defense
                                                  Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanct.: $10.50 - $15.50.   (DoD) employees with valid U.S. Military/DoD IDs
              Navy MWR at Home                    Disney World Orlando Armed Forces 2020 Salute         also qualify. Visit the Ticket Office for further details.
  Stay active. Stay informed. Stay connected.     4-Day ticket with hopper option - $259.75; 5-Day      Universal Orlando Florida Resident Special: 2-Park,
Navy MWR compiled a list of resources to          ticket with hopper option - $277.75; 6-Day ticket     2-Day (one park per day) Ticket, Adult $163, Child
help keep you busy & entertained while you are    with hopper option - $294.75. Tickets must be         (age 3-9) $155. 2-Park, 2-Day Park to Park Ticket,
home. Explore fitness activities & resources,     purchased by Dec. 18, 2020 and are valid for          Adult $201, Child (age 3-9) $193. 2-Park, 3-Day
daily surprise videos from musicians, comedians, use NOW through Sept. 26, 2021. Only Active            (one park per day) Ticket, Adult $166.25, Child (age
                                                  and Retired U.S. Military Personnel (including        3-9) $158.25. 2-Park, 3-Day Park to Park Ticket,
magicians & other entertainers, recipes in the
                                                  Active or Retired members of the National Guard,      Adult $203.75, Child (age 3-9). Tickets are only
cooking section, or travel the world virtually    Reservists, the U.S. Coast Guard, the Commissioned    sold UNTIL 12/17/20 and are redeemable through
through online content from museums, theme        Corps of the Public Health Service (PHS), and         03/26/21. Blackout Dates 12/25/20 to 01/03/21. All
parks, & historic sites. Visit https://www.       the Commissioned Corps of the National Oceanic        Adults must provide proof of Florida Residency at
navymwr.org/navy-mwr-at-home/ to discover         and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) "or"            the gate to redeem tickets.
more.                                             their spouses are authorized to purchase Military     Velocity Air Sports – Flight Fit N Fun Jacksonville: 1
                                                  Promotional tickets. - Restrictions apply.            Hr: $15.50. 2 Hr: $26. (socks incl.)
Check the NAS Jax MWR Facebook page for
                                                  IFLY Jacksonville: $55 for two flights.               Wild Adventures (Valdosta, Ga.): Gold Pass – $81
more resources, events, and newly-reopened        Jacksonville Symphony: $31.                           Special—use now until the end of 2021.
facilities on base.                               Jacksonville Zoo, General admission: $13 - $17.50.
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