Month: August 2023

Source: United States Navy

NAVFAC Atlantic has honored a Resident Officer in Charge of Construction (ROICC) Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) team with the title of “2022 Team of the Year (Product & Service) – Gold” for their remarkable management and execution of the P653 NNSY Flood Wall Project. This extraordinary achievement, which saw the completion of the military construction project an incredible nine months ahead of the Contract Completion Date (CCD), is a testament to their unwavering dedication and meticulous attention to detail.

The honor was accompanied by praise from Rear Adm. Lore Aguayo, Commander of NAVFAC Atlantic and Fleet Civil Engineer and Director of Fleet Installations and Environment at US Fleet Forces Command, who said, “It brings me immense pride to commend William, Keith, and Michele. Their outstanding management and execution of the P653 NNSY Flood Wall Project not only underscore their unwavering dedication and meticulous attention to detail but also exemplify the remarkable synergy and collaborative spirit that epitomize the success of a cohesive team.”

The team’s exceptional ability to collaborate effectively with various NNSY entities allowed them to modify the construction schedule, enabling multiple locations to be worked on concurrently. This strategic move ensured that operational impacts were minimized, culminating in the project’s completion significantly ahead of schedule.

The project involved overseeing the excavation of over a mile of footings around the NNSY’s north dry dock area, a task fraught with potential challenges. However, the team’s rapid engineering solutions and adept response to unforeseen conditions and changes to Shipyard operations resulted in a flawless execution with no significant incidents.

Perhaps the most significant achievement of this project is the comprehensive flood protection system it delivered, specifically designed to combat the effects of storm surge and waves. This system now safeguards the submarine dry docks and associated support facilities, extending protection to the 500-year floodplain.

The early completion of the project allowed NNSY to enhance their emergency management plans before the winter Nor’easter season, a crucial measure as they conduct overhauls on some of the nation’s most strategically vital assets.

The NAVFAC team responsible for this remarkable success included key members, such as William House, the project’s Construction Manager, who remarked, “I am honored to be part of the Gold Team and the partnership that was forged between the Contractor (MEB) and NAVFAC on the P653-Flood wall project. I don’t think there was any challenge that could not be successfully overcome. Everyone, from leadership to laborers, exhibited a can-do spirit. It was a humbling experience.”

Keith Pope, the project’s Engineering Technician, emphasized, “Building relationships is essential in developing a high-performance team. I would give just as much credit to the contractor team. My personal goal on any construction contract is to resolve issues at the lowest level possible while keeping the chain of command informed. I’m not out there to point out contractor faults but to identify and resolve issues to deliver a project on-time, within budget, and safely.”

And, Michele Friedlein, the project’s contract specialist, added, “It’s an honor to be recognized as a Gold Team member, and this project was a team effort. The Government and Contractor camaraderie made the floodwall project a success, and I was blessed to be assigned to the project.”

The team’s exemplary dedication and expertise have established a new benchmark for project management and execution, solidifying their well-deserved position as the 2022 Team of the Year (Product & Service) – Gold.

Source: United States Navy

In a heartwarming tale of dedication and teamwork, Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command (NAVFAC) Atlantic’s Richard Seeloff, Support Systems Specialist, and Jose (Joe) Goncalves, Mail & File Assistant, have been awarded the honor of “2022 Team of the Year (Product & Service) – Silver” for their exceptional contributions to the Lafayette River Annex (LRA) consolidation.

Rear Adm. Lore Aguayo, Commander, NAVFAC Atlantic and Fleet Civil Engineer and Director, Fleet Installations and Environment, US Fleet Forces Command, praised Seeloff’s and Goncalves’ achievements, stating, “I am truly delighted to commend Rich and Joe for their exceptional work. Amidst the intricacies of a significant administrative transition, the entire team admirably upheld our standard commitments to our valued customers, and their steadfast reliability proved to be an invaluable asset in keeping us firmly on course.”

Richard and Joe emerged as the Move/Build Team for the LRA consolidation, a project that involved furniture builds, moves, reconfigurations, and catering to the needs of employees during and after the campus consolidation. Their tireless efforts and willingness to assist anyone in need provided a glimmer of hope and comfort to employees navigating the challenging transition.

The consolidation of the LRA campus, from three buildings to one, posed significant challenges, compounded by the increase in telework and a reduction in operations and maintenance funds. Despite holding full-time positions, Richard and Joe became indispensable to the consolidation process.

Their collaborative approach resulted in the completion of more than twenty-three interior furniture reconfigurations, knock-downs, and builds within tight timelines, often with mere days’ notice. Every challenge was met with determination and an unwavering commitment to delivering results on time, within budget, and safely.

Richard and Joe went above and beyond by cleaning up existing inventory, removing damaged furniture, and paying meticulous attention to details, enhancing the comfort of their colleagues during the transition.

The consolidation project included phased moves, all of which were completed on schedule, thanks to their relentless efforts. They not only adhered to schedules but also improved designs to better serve employees. Their dedication extended to volunteering for additional tasks, such as shred days, coordinating with movers, and replacing existing equipment or furniture with betterments from the abandoned buildings.

Their camaraderie and positive attitudes transformed what could have been a daunting experience into a positive one for all involved.

Even though the consolidation was completed in the summer of 2022, Richard and Joe’s commitment has not waned. Throughout the year, they continued to fine-tune, move, adjust, and assist employees as they settled into the new environment. Their forward-thinking and planning have laid a solid foundation for the future.

Goncalves remarked, “To me, it means I am doing the best I can to help all the customers. Even if I can’t make everyone happy, I’m pleased to help everyone I can.”

Seeloff added, “Being recognized meant a lot to Joe and me. It also made me aware that the work we do doesn’t go unnoticed. I realized that management took note of what we were doing above our normal duties and gave us recognition for it. Once again, very much appreciated.”

Richard and Joe’s exceptional dedication and unwavering commitment have left an indelible mark on NAVFAC Atlantic, making them worthy recipients of the “2022 Team of the Year (Product & Service) – Silver” award.

Source: United States Navy

Riders from the Navy, Marine Corps, Army and Air Force recently traveled to Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, to work together toward one common, critical goal: making their motorcycle riders safer.

Hosted by the Commandant of the Marine Corps Safety Division (CMC SD) on Quantico, nearly 30 active-duty and civilian motorcycle riders participated in the Department of Defense (DoD) Motorcycle Mentorship Program beta test Aug. 14-18, which was facilitated by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF).

Unlike other riding courses, which focus primarily on learning and mastering the technical skills required to operate a motorcycle, the mentorship program is focused more on decision-making and relationship-building rather than skill-building, said Dale Wisnieski, traffic safety manager for the Commandant of the Marine Corps Safety Division and beta test event facilitator.

“Within the military services, we all have issues with certain behaviors and poor decision-making when it comes to riding our motorcycles,” Wisnieski said.

As of Aug. 23 this fiscal year, the Navy and Marine Corps have lost a total of 25 service members, with the Navy losing 19 Sailors – the highest number of motorcycle fatalities for the service in six years, according to Naval Safety Command data. Many of these fatalities were caused by poor decision-making such as excessive speed and improper maneuvers.

“While other training courses focus on skills, the mentorship program covers all aspects of riding and provides valuable information to riders to help them make the best decisions possible while out on a ride,” Wisnieski added.

The beta test mentorship program also differs from other courses in the way information is presented – and who presents the information. Instead of instructors providing lessons and administering and grading tests on skill-based knowledge, this program encourages trained, volunteer mentors to meet with one to three junior riders on a recurring basis in a more relaxed environment. Here, the mentor can evaluate the junior riders’ skill and knowledge levels while addressing different aspects of riding during each session.

Although mentorship programs have been around – and been required in one form or another by all services for roughly a decade, the lack of standardized, consistent training material or guidelines for motorcycle mentors within DoD is an ongoing challenge.

“The Marine Corps has had the requirement to meet on a quarterly basis, and riders have conducted group rides, but they’re not coordinated to evaluate the skills of newer riders,” Wisnieski said. “And that’s what this training may provide – it can give mentors the direction and skills they need to evaluate new riders and determine how they can help correct and guide them. It’s not meant to be a skills test; it really is meant to be mentoring.”

The mentoring material provided during the beta test offered suggested topics, quizzes and motorcycle exercises mentors could use to gauge the knowledge and skill levels of their junior riders – and that’s exactly what the test volunteers did.

The first group, 16 trainer rider-mentors, began in the classroom Aug. 14 to learn not only how to prepare to teach other riders how to become rider-mentors, but also to become familiar with more than 50 topics that will be available to the new mentors to use in discussions with their junior rider mentees.

“The information is there – MSF developed 52 topics that will provide riders the education they need in all aspects of riding,” Wisnieski said, “And the goal is to decrease poor decisions through better education and guidance.”

Monday afternoon, the trainers-in-training headed to the motorcycle range to run the exercises they would be conducting with the incoming rider-mentors later in the week. For the next two days, the volunteers honed their skills as trainers, alternating between the classroom and the motorcycle range at Camp Upshur while working together to determine the best way to present the information to new rider-mentors.

Aviation Structural Mechanic 1st Class Matthew Sharp, an instructor at the Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training Unit Oceana, Virginia, and one of the trainer rider-mentors, said although he thinks the mentorship program will help, Sailors, specifically junior riders, also have to be receptive to the program.

“We can do everything in our power to help them hone their skills and make smarter choices, but really, when they leave, it’s going to be up to them to use that information,” Sharp said. “I think that’s the biggest issue we’re having – losing service members over poor judgement.”

The 10 rider-mentors began class Aug. 17, which was now being taught solely by the trainer rider-mentors, with the MSF staff observing and suggesting course corrections as needed. Later that afternoon, the trainers headed back to the range, only this time running exercises with their rider-mentors in training.

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. David Cook, an intelligence analyst at Marine Forces Command, Virginia and one of the rider-mentors in training, said although he was looking at the mentoring program through a more critical lens, it was because he wants the program to be as good as it possibly can – especially for young Marines.

“For being a beta test, I think it’s going well, but there is room to grow,” Cook said. “I hope they take all the things we critique and make it better, but I’m excited to see where that goes.”

Cook added that he’s happy the DoD is looking to enhance motorcycle programs, which sends a clear message to all services and their motorcycle riders.

“There are individuals at the top that continue to want to make these programs better because that hammers it home for a lot of young [riders] that you’re not just a number; you’re a person with a family, and your service – Marines, Navy, Air Force, Army – they want you to get home safe, and they’re giving you the tools to do so.”

The last day of training for both groups included a morning on the range, and just before one final trip to the classroom, Matt Gentile, one of the two MSF staff members leading the beta test, gave some feedback on how he thought the test was going and how the program could improve.

“I think it’s going fantastic,” he said. “We’re finding areas we can improve the content and its delivery. Based on what we have seen here, we will add more information to our mentor trainer guide so the trainers can facilitate an even better process to the rider-mentors.”

Feedback from test participants and service-specific safety representatives who observed the test program will determine updates to the program and whether another beta test is needed before completion.

Once the program is completed and released, Wisnieski said the Joint Safety Council and Defense Safety Oversight Council will assess the way ahead for the DoD motorcycle mentorship program.

“Leadership support is critical in moving forward,” Wisnieski said. “As a collective service, our goal is to roll this out as a joint initiative, and leadership support is critical in implementing a program that can reduce the number of motorcycle mishaps and potentially save the lives of our service members and civilians.”

References to non-federal entities do not constitute or imply Department of the Navy endorsement of any company or organization.

Source: United States Navy

Please continue to monitor the NAS Jacksonville Facebook page for updates when the station will reopen on Thursday.

The Visitor Control Center (Pass and ID office) will remain open until 4 p.m. today, Aug. 29. Yorktown (Main) Gate will be the only gate open on Wednesday.

Only mission essential personnel will have access to the station on Wednesday, Aug. 30 until the installation returns to normal operations. This day will be considered administrative leave for all civilian personnel assigned to the station.

All Morale, Welfare and Recreation facilities including the Child Development Center and Youth Activities Center will be closing today at 5 p.m. until the base is reopened.

All Naval Hospital Jacksonville outpatient clinics/services (including immunizations, pharmacies, lab, radiology), Naval Branch Health Clinic Jacksonville, and Naval Branch Health Clinic Kings Bay & Mayport are closed Wednesday, Aug. 30 due to Hurricane Idalia. The estimated reopening time will be 10 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 31 however this could be later depending on the level of damage the base receives. If you have any type of appointment (or surgery) scheduled, staff will call to reschedule. Please check official Facebook pages for reopening schedules. The hospital emergency room is available for on-base emergencies. As always, in an emergency, call 911 or go the nearest emergency room.

The Call Center will also be closed on Wednesday, Aug 30 with an estimated reopening on Thursday, Aug. 31 at 10 a.m. however this could be later depending on the level of damage to the station.

The Nurse Advice Line is open 24/7 for advice and help finding urgent care at 800-874-2273 (by phone) and
www.mhsNurseAdviceLine.com (for chat and video chat).
Check www.TRICARE.mil/Disaster for updates on getting care and medication refills during the storm. If you have an appointment at a local hospital out-in-town, please check with them for their status.

Dewey’s will remain open to serve all military and civilians personnel who remain on station for storm support based on weather conditions.

Fleet Readiness Center Southeast (FRCSE) will be closed tomorrow with mission-essential personnel only reporting to work. All telework eligible employees shall telework on Wednesday. FRCSE is expected to resume normal operations on Thursday and all personnel should report to work for your normal shift. In the rare circumstance the base has not shifted to COR 1 by start of the first shift on Thursday, please check the various communication mechanisms for instructions:
FRCSE’s operational status phone number (904-718-8920). Please save this number to your contacts list in your cell phone. FRCSE hearing impaired members should call the Florida Relay Service 800-955-8771 or 711 and have them call 904-718-8920 for FRCSE’s operational status.

Once the CO has determined that the installation is safe to the extent that basic services can be provided, and the City of Jacksonville Emergency Management has cleared the major roadways for re-entry, the installation will be opened to non-essential personnel.

For updates on base conditions, continue to monitor local media affiliates or go to https://www.facebook.com/nasjacksonville, Instagram at www.instagram.com/nasjacksonville or the NAS Jacksonville App.

Source: United States Navy

Nearly 200 former crew members returned to the ship, which is now the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum located at Pier 86, 12th Avenue and 46th Street in New York City. The ceremony featured a special presentation to the World War II crew members, a moment of silence, and a performance of Taps to honor the fallen.

“Throughout World War II, USS Intrepid endured aerial torpedo and kamikaze attacks, her crew never faltering in their damage control duties to keep the ship in the fight,” said SECNAV Del Toro during remarks at the ceremony. “Intrepid preserves the legacy of the men who served onboard, including members of our ‘Greatest Generation, who bravely fought for our Nation’s freedom.”

  

Former crew members from World War II, the Cold War, and the Vietnam War, as well as many of their family members, attended the ceremony at the museum. 

“This museum, along with several others like it around our country, serves as a poignant reminder that we are indeed a maritime nation, and that a strong Navy has always been the cornerstone of our ability to preserve the peace, both near and afar,” said SECNAV Del Toro.

“Having the heart and the soul of Intrepid from all around the country (here) and having the opportunity for all of us to personally interact with all of you is an honor,” said Intrepid President Susan Marenoff-Zausner. “It’s because of you, literally, that I and you have the privilege to be here today.”

Intrepid’s history includes becoming the first aircraft carrier in our fleet to launch aircraft with steam-powered catapults. After a modernization period, Intrepid sailed in the US Sixth Fleet, deploying multiple times throughout the Atlantic Ocean, Mediterranean Sea, and throughout the Caribbean.

Intrepid also played an integral part in our nation’s space program, serving as the principal recovery ship for Project Mercury Aurora 7 space capsule in 1962 and for the first Gemini mission in 1965.

Intrepid was decommissioned in 1974 and was set to be scrapped. New York City developer and philanthropist Zachary Fisher spearheaded a campaign to save Intrepid from the scrap yard. The ship opened as the centerpiece of the Intrepid Museum in 1982.

SECNAV Del Toro praised the crew members who returned to the ship for the ceremony.

“These Sailors continue to serve our Nation long after taking off their uniforms, inspiring and guiding our next generation of Sailors, just as their former ship continues to do today,” said SECNAV Del Toro.

Raised in the Hell’s Kitchen neighborhood of New York City, SECNAV Del Toro was sworn in as the 78th Secretary of the Navy on Aug. 9, 2021. Born in Havana, Cuba, Del Toro immigrated to the U.S. with his family as refugees in 1962. He attended public schools and received an appointment to the United States Naval Academy, where he earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering. Secretary Del Toro was commissioned as a Surface Warfare Officer upon his graduation in 1983. 

As Secretary, he is responsible for nearly one million Sailors, Marines, and civilians and an annual budget exceeding $210 Billion.