THEARTOF

EXPRESSION

Story and Photos by MCSA Aiyana Paschal

Vol 2. Issue 52

s Sailors crowded the forward mess decks of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz, Personnel Specialist (PS) Seaman James

Jenkins from Harlem, N.Y. set up equipment for the ship’s first “poetry jam.” Equipment wasn’t the only thing Jenkins was preparing at the moment.

“I might read an introductory poem tonight, but I haven’t decided yet if I will,” said Jenkins. “I get nervous in front of groups, and haven’t fully memorized it.”

As Sailors filled the tables, others started to form along the wall, all waiting for either their chance to express themselves, or to view the poetry

Continued on page 3

A

June 27, 2013

Editor

MC2 (SW) Jason Behnke

Lead Designer

MC3 (SW) George J. Penney III

Nimitz News accepts submissions in writing. All submissions are subject to review and screening. ”Nimitz News” is an authorized publication for the members of the military services and their families. Its content does not necessarily reflect the official views of the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense, the Department of the Navy, or the Marine Corps and does not imply endorsement thereby.

Public Affairs Officer

LCDR Karin Burzynski

Commanding Officer

CAPT Jeff Ruth

Executive Officer

CDR John Cummings

Command Master Chief

CMDCM Teri McIntyre

2

Sailor of the Day

Story and Photos by MC3 Derek W. Volland

For his outstanding performance, Aviation Machinist’s Mate 3rd Class Derek Davis, a native of San Clemente, Calif., was selected as the Sailor of the Day aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) June 26.

“Awesome, rewarding, surprising,” said Davis, giving his reaction to being announced as Sailor of the Day. “I’m so busy that I never thought that someone would take the time to make this happen.”

Davis, a trouble shooter for the Maintenance Department of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 154, performed his demanding duties in an exemplary and highly professional manner.

“I joined the Navy in March of 2009,” said Davis. “ I always had a fascination with jets. When I talked to the recruiters they told me that there were jobs that handled nothing but jets, so I jumped at the chance.”

He displayed exceptional leadership and initiative, training and mentoring 15 personnel

resulting in the qualification of eight final checkers and troubleshooters.

“I’ve already reenlisted for another four years,” said Davis. “I’m going to play it by ear on whether I try for 20 yet.”

Additionally, he directly contributed to the flawless execution of more than 327 special inspections and more than 250 mishap-free flight hours.

“My advice for Sailors would be to try and relax,” said Davis. “Don’t be nervous about whether you make it or not, just work as hard as you can and you’ll make it.”

His vast knowledge of aircraft systems and his ability to repair equipment was directly responsible for VFA 154 executing more than 50 sorties, increasing the command’s overall mission effectiveness.

3

jam Jenkins worked hard to put together. Jenkins wasn’t alone in his efforts. Morale

Welfare and Recreation (MWR) provided the equipment that was used and the Junior Enlisted Association (JEA) helped advertise and put the poetry jam together. Other PSs even helped prepare the space by moving tables into place.

It turns out Jenkins decided to kick things off with his introductory poem he wrote for the jam. It was well received with a round of applause and snaps.

“I’m a social person, and I’ve noticed there’s a lot of verbal talent on this ship,” said Jenkins. “I thought this would be a good opportunity for people to share their talent and get what they need to off their chest. It’s a clean environment where people can speak without being judged.”

Jenkins said he would like to put on a poetry jam once a month if the first one went well, and it did. There were about 14 performers, and all the seats and spots on the walls in the forward galley were filled.

At the poetry jam, people performed using different forms of expression, all poetic. There was poetry reading, rapping and even guitar playing and singing. The crowd laughed when jokes about ship life were poetically put together. At other times, the crowd sat in silent respect until a poem was finished then snapped or clapped when the last line was read.

Machinist’s Mate 3rd Class Rebecca V. Meal

was one of the performers at the poetry jam. She read a poem entitled “Stone” about her experience with heart break.

“I’ve been writing poetry since the 7th grade,” said Meal. “I’ve been told I was good, so I want to see what other people think of my poetry. I’ve never performed in front of a large crowd before, but I think this is a good way to express yourself and what’s going on inside of you. These little functions people put together give us a chance to express ourselves and have fun. That’s why they’re always so good for morale.”

Continued from page 1

Sailors watch the Poetry Jam on the fwd mess decks.

4

In Focus

PROTECTING THE

ENVIRONMENT

Story by MCSA Andrew PriceLayout by George J. Penney III

Seven years ago, several garbage bags filled with plastics and clothes were thrown from a weather deck of the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Days later they were found strewn about the shores of Australia. Citizens were outraged and an investigation ensued.

Australians traced the trash back to the carrier, to the embarrassment of captain and crew. Several Sailors were found guilty for their part in the release of hazardous materials into the ocean.

Currently, pilots from the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) are supporting ground troops in the Middle East. Those still on the ship are now ambassadors of the United States to the surrounding countries, some of which have an already fragile relationship with the U.S. Hazardous materials or trash carelessly thrown overboard could put undue strain on an already delicate situation.

Nimitz is on the right track, however. In March of this year, Nimitz received the second annual Environmental Protection and Energy Conservation (EPEC) award. The award counts toward Nimitz’ Battle Effectiveness Award and is a representation of the ship’s ability to maintain environmental discharge standards within Navy regulations.

With constant inspections by safety personnel and quarterly trainings of department heads, it has been an all-hands effort spearheaded by Cmdr. Lisa Ketterman, the ship’s safety officer and EPEC

liaison. “All hands have been making a great effort

of being conscious of what we are putting in the water around us,” said Ketterman. “However, as we enter 5th fleet area of operations, we are going to need to be extra cautious.”

Due to our proximity to the shores of surrounding countries, an extra effort to maintain environmental efforts will be paramount.

“We have seven people in charge of 5,000 people’s trash every day,” said Electrician’s Mate 3rd Class, Ian Higgins, a trash collector on board. “It is important that the trash is sorted correctly so we don’t put anything dangerous in the ocean.”

Ketterman suggests that the proper handling of hazardous materials and trash is up to each individual on board, and is a daily concern.

“It only takes one spill or environmental issue to dismantle what we have worked so hard for,” said Ketterman.

Ketterman suggests a few helpful regulations while underway.

“Separate trash, report all leaks, and keep paint and HAZMAT materials from going overboard,” said Ketterman. “Absolutely no trash over the side.”

Ketterman and Higgins agree that it will take everyone on board to keep Nimitz’ environmental protection record spotless, but could only take one Sailor to pollute it.

It only takes one spill or environmental issue to dismantle what we have worked so hard for.

- Ketterman ”“ By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Andrea PerezNavy Personnel Command Public Affairs Office

5

Planning ahead can be one of the biggest stress relievers when it comes to a permanent change of station (PCS) move, Fleet and Family Service Center (FFSC) off icials said June 20.

“For a lot of people [who move], the pre-departure can be both positive and negative,” said Diane Brown, Work and Family Life specialist, Fleet and Family Support Center (FFSC). “You’re leaving what you’re familiar with, which can be very uncomfortable. But going on to something new can be exciting too, especially if it’s a location that you may have never been to. So it really depends on the person, on how up you are for change and how f lexible you are.”

After a Sailor receives their orders, the f irst thing they should do is visit their local FFSC and meet with a Relocation Assistance Program (RAP) specialist, then attend a Smooth Move class or Moving Overseas workshop to learn the basics about a PCS move and how to start the process.

Applications like Plan my Move on the Military OneSource website at www.militaryonesource.com will organize a Sailor’s to do list prior to their move. It provides a three-month calendar of steps a Sailor needs to take to ensure a smooth move for themselves and their family.

Brown says sponsors can also help reduce a Sailor’s stress by f inding answers ahead of time to any questions they have about their new location. Sailors who have not been assigned a sponsor can request one on the Military OneSource website with the Electronic Sponsorship Application and Training tool.

“Service members should ask their sponsor a lot of questions,” said Brown. “I think good questions that the incoming service member can ask the sponsor is your best bet to relieving stress.”

Other helpful websites include:* Housing Early Application Tool (HEAT) -

https://www.dko.mil/heat/apply* Housing Service Center locator - www.

cnic.navy.mil/HousingQuickReference* Schedule your PCS move - www.

smartwebmove.navsup.navy.mil “Families definitely want to take a team

approach to their PCS move, whether you divvy up whose going to do what each day, or what chores each person is responsible for prior to the move. The more information you share with your family, the smoother your move will be,” said Brown.

Don’t forget that moving can be especially stressful on children, said Brown.

“From a kid’s perspective, you’re leaving your house, your friends, you’re going to a new school...that’s hard, that’s really hard,” said Brown. “If you are struggling and are tense and stressed out, your children will notice that. The more positive you are, the more positive they’re going to be.

Brown suggests getting kids involved in learning about the new location and the new installation by doing research. Maybe even let them help pack and let them decide what items they may have outgrown and don’t want to bring with.

Preparation, communication and family involvement are key to a less stressful PCS move says Brown.

“Be aware that you and your spouse may handle things differently... and recognize differences in coping strategies,” said Brown. “Some people look at moving as a really fun experience and as something positive. Some people who may have made really good friends or are leaving family may dread moving. Listen to each other. Stay positive.”

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Andrea PerezNavy Personnel Command Public Affairs Office

From the TOP

STRESS LESS WHENYOU PCS

6

Through the Lens

GM1 Matthew Quave gives training on the disassembly of the M240 machinegun in the armory.- Photo by MC3 Derek W. Volland

An E-2C Hawkeye approaches the flight deck.- Photo by MCSN Derek Harkins

ABE3 Oluwarotimi Anigilaje speaks into a sound-powered telephone while standing watch.- Photo by MC3 Raul Moreno Jr.

Sailors conduct a no-load test on catapult four.- Photo by MC3 Chris Bartlett

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