Volume 11, Number 272 Naval Support Activity Bahrain October 29, 2014

INSIDE THESE

STORIESA N DMORE...

NERF WAR, P. 2 MOM’S HOME!!, P. 4 OCTOBER 2014 IS NATIONAL ENERGY ACTION MONTH!, P. 5

3 - CHAPLAIN’S CORNER - FROM THE DESK OF THE PRINCIPAL - SAFETY4 - NAVY CONDUCTS SIZING CORRELATION STUDY - WEEKLY WARRIOR6 - MWR EVENTS & INFO

New SAC Facility Opening SoonBy MC1 (SW) Steve Smith Staff Writer

NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain — Child and Youth Programs (CYP) Bahrain’s School-age Care (SAC) facility, onboard Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain, is relocating to a new building at the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) Bahrain School campus within the next few months.

Construction is already well underway on the new 4,025 square-foot building, which will be able to hold up to 75 children in grades K-6. The space is specifically designed for the SAC program requirements. The facility is scheduled to have its Grand Opening on Jan. 3., which will include an Open House. The new program will then be open for business on Jan. 4, 2015.

“All program areas have seen a steady rise in enroll-ment since October 2011,” said Ann Leach, CYP Director. “With this growth came waiting lists in Child Development Center (CDC) and SAC programs. Because of the steady increase and the unpredictable nature of projecting future need for families, we put a few solutions in place.”

Leach said one short term fix was to relocate the Teen Center to a different building, which allowed the SAC pro-gram expand by 26 spaces, increasing capacity from 30 to 56 children. This move cleared the SAC waiting list for the time being. At the same time, it also jumped the number of teen spaces from 26 to 41.

Photo by MC1 (SW) Steve Smith

Completion of the new SAC program facility on the DoDDEA Bahrain School campus will provide convenience to working parents and use of additional facilities for the kids.NEW SAC FACILITY Page 4

Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group Checks in to US 5th Fleet

Photo by MC2 Korrin Kim

The aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), bottom, relieves USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) in the Arabian Gulf. George H.W. Bush will soon depart the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility for its homeport at Norfolk, Va., and Carl Vinson will take over support of maritime security operations, strike operations in Iraq and Syria as directed, and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.

By MC2 James P. Bleyle USS Carl Vinson Public Affairs

USS CARL VINSON, At Sea — The Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group wrapped up operations in the Western Pacific and reported for duty in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of respon-sibility Oct. 15.

The strike group consists of USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) with embarked Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 1, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17 and Destroyer Squadron 1, along with guided-missile cruiser USS Bunker Hill (CG 52), guided-missile destroyers USS Gridley (DDG 101), USS Sterett (DDG 104), USS Dewey (DDG 105), and elements of Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit 3.

“All of our hard work and effort through the workup cycle was done with operations in this part of the world in mind,” said Rear Adm. Christopher Grady, commander of the Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group. “We are ready on arrival to execute the tasking of our leadership.”

On the way to the 5th Fleet area of responsibility the strike group took part in Valiant Shield 2014, which was a rare opportunity to conduct integrated joint training exercises with two carrier strike groups. Valiant Shield involved 19 ships and more than 200 aircraft from Carl Vinson and George Washington Carrier Strike Groups, the U.S. Marine Corps, and U.S. Air Force.

The exercise took place less than a month after the Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group participated in an Undersea Warfare Exercise (USWEX) off of the coast of Hawaii. The USWEX tested the strike group’s ability to detect, evade, and fight undersea threats.

The strike group deployed from San Diego Aug. 22 and recently completed a port visit to Singapore, Oct. 7. During the port visit, the Carl Vinson hosted a reception in conjunc-tion with the U.S. Embassy Singapore for local and regional dignitaries, and Bunker Hill held a change of command ceremony during which Capt. Sterling Dawley relieved Capt. Yvette Davids.

2 The Bahrain Desert Times October 29, 2014

The Bahrain Desert Times is an authorized publication primarily for members of the Navy and Marine Corps military services in Bahrain.

Its contents do not necessarily reflect the official views of the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense, the U.S. Navy or Marine Corps and do not imply endorsement thereof.

All editorial content is prepared, edited, provided and approved by the staff of the NSA, Bahrain, Public Affairs Officer.

The appearance of advertising in this newspaper, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the DoD, the U.S. Navy or Marine Corps and Commanding Officer Naval Support Activity Bahrain of the products and services advertised.

Everything advertised in this newspaper shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user or patron. If a violation or rejection of this policy by an advertiser is confirmed, the publisher shall refuse to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected.

A confirmed violation of this policy of equal opportunity by an advertiser will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source.

The Bahrain Desert Times is published bi-weekly by Red House Marketing, P.O. Box 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain, a private firm in no way connected with DoD, the U.S. Navy or Marine Corps.

Red House Marketing, is responsible for commercial advertising, which may be purchased by calling: (973) 1781 3777 or send in a Fax to (973) 1781 3700.

439-4520www.cnic.navy.mil/bahrain

Commanding OfficerNaval Support Activity Bahrain Capt. David Meron

NSA Bahrain Executive OfficerCmdr. Leif Hammersmark

Public Affairs OfficerJennifer L. Stride

Staff PhotojournalistMC1 (SW) Steven SmithMC2 John Benson

Photos by MC2 John Benson

October 29, 2014 The Bahrain Desert Times 3

By Chaplain (LT) Kevin L. Johnson

You may have noticed in the news lately that 9 November this year is the 25th anniversary of the opening of the Berlin Wall. I was in college at the time, and it seems to me like just yesterday. If the fall of the Wall truly was 25 years ago, that officially makes me old. I had the opportunity shortly afterwards to visit Berlin, and still have a few small pieces of the Wall that I chipped out myself with a hammer.

However, just because the Wall came down, and German political reuni-fication followed soon afterwards, it doesn’t mean that the almost half centu-ry of division went away immediately. In fact, differences between the two halves of Germany in lifestyle, wealth,

and political matters still remain. The time apart was not overcome in a single, joyous moment.

That can be a timely lesson for all of us. We’re here in Bahrain, separated from the familiar things of home. Whether or not that’s family, or a favor-ite meal, or just simply snow on the ground, we’re all separated from some-thing. We all know the day will come we’ll see the wife and kids again, or eat mom’s lasagna, or have to shovel out the car. But our time apart here in Bahrain will change us. And when all of us get back, we’ll have to be conscious of that fact. Your family and friends will have had to get along with you over here. And that changed them.

Eating here expanded your food experience. Mom’s lasagna will still be delicious, but you discovered something new here to tickle your palate. You haven’t had to drive in snow in over a year, and now you know what HOT actually is. You’ve been living over here on a paycheck without taxes. When you get back home, things will not be as they were.

German reunification occurred quickly, and perhaps, as a people, they didn’t get the time to plan as much as they could have. You, as servicemem-bers, have the time to plan. Talk openly to your loved ones. Ask people who’ve been overseas before, find out what they did that worked. And of course, as always, your chaplain is ready to help.

Chaplain’s CornerComing Back Together

 

Spooktacular!!!! Oct 30th &31st from

6:00pm-9:00pm It’s going to be a

No Classes Nov. 2-3 Ashoora

No Classes Nov 9th Teacher Workday

No Classes Nov 19-20th Parent Teacher Conferences

Nov. 26th Reading Event 4:00-6:00

Nov. 27th Teacher Training day! No Classes Thanksgiving!  

Dec. 10th Family Math Night 4:00-6:00

Dec. 15th Holiday Sing-A-Long @ 2:00

Dec. 16th – Jan.3rd Winter Recess! No Classes

Jan. 4th Classroom Instruction Resumes!!

Driving  in  Rain      

ü  Skidding  -­‐  Occurs  due  to  slick  condi5ons  on  the  road  whether  do  to  rain.  In  the  periods  between  rainfalls,  oil  and  grease  build  up  on  the  roads  and  the  warm  sun  keeps  the  oil  and  grease  in  a  liquid  state.  The  most  dangerous  5me  for  slick  roads  in  rain  is  shortly  aBer  the  rain  begins  and  there  is  a  thin  layer  of  water  on  the  roads.  Once  it  starts  to  rain,  the  oil  and  grease  float  on  top  of  the  water  crea5ng  a  very  slick  surface.  The  roads  are  most  slippery  in  the  first  half  hour  aBer  it  starts  to  rain.  Eventually,  the  oil  and  grease  will  be  washed  down  the  drains  and  the  roads  will  lose  that  slick  coa5ng  of  oil,  but  that  is  not  the  5me  to  relax  because,  as  the  rains  increase,  the  condi5ons  for  hydroplaning  increase.  

ü  Hydroplaning  -­‐    •  Vehicle  speed.  As  speed  increases,  wet  trac5on  is  considerably  reduced.  

Since  hydroplaning  can  result  in  a  complete  loss  of  trac5on  and  vehicle  control,  you  should  always  reduce  speed,  paying  aJen5on  to  the  traffic  around  you.    

•  Tire  tread  depth.  As  your  5res  become  worn,  their  ability  to  resist  hydroplaning  is  reduced.    

•  Water  depth.  The  deeper  the  water,  the  sooner  you  will  lose  trac5on,  although  even  thin  water  layers  can  cause  a  loss  of  trac5on,  including  at  low  speeds.  

 

The U.S. Naval Academy and Naval Academy Preparatory School (USNA / NAPS), Officer Candidate School (OCS), Medical Enlisted Commissioning Program (MECP),

Medical Service Corps In-service Procurement Program (MSC IPP), Seaman to Admiral Twenty One (STA-21), and Limited Duty Officer / Chief Warrant Officer (LDO/CWO) programs will be discussed in detail by Naval Officers who were commissioned under those programs. There will also be a

presentation of the selection board process. Navy Mustangs will be available for questions at the end of the event.

United States Navy “Mustang Round Up”

Monday, 17 November 14, 1300-1600 NSA Bahrain Base Chapel

Hosted and Presented by: The Bahrain Chapter Navy Mustang Association

Enlisted to Officer Commissioning Programs

4 The Bahrain Desert Times October 29, 2014

For more information on visas and CPR cards contact Immigration at 1785-4258.

By Kristine M. Sturkie Navy Exchange Service Command Public Affairs

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (NNS) — The Navy Clothing and Textile Research Facility (NCTRF), a Navy Exchange Service Command (NEXCOM) and Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) activity, is currently conducting a Navy sizing correlation study to gather data to get an up-to-date snapshot of the size and shape of today’s Sailors.

“U.S. Navy body dimensions were last measured in 1997 for males and 1988 for females,” said Capt. Robert Gantt, NEXCOM’s Deputy Commander, Uniform Programs. “Based on a recent Army Anthropometric Study, it was shown that the average height, weight and dimensions of servicemen and women have changed over the past 20 years. So, updating sizing data in U.S. Navy patterns for uniforms and organizational clothing would help improve fit and comfort for Sailors.”

NCTRF has begun collecting 30 noninvasive body dimensions of Sailors at Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia. In total, NCTRF will gather the measurements of 4,000 Sailors (2,000 men and 2,000 women) throughout the Hampton Roads, Virginia area during the study, which will last through March 2015.

“We received information from the Navy Personnel Research, Studies and Technology on the demographics of all Sailors,” said Louise Caulfield, NCTRF Business Development Manager. “From that, we are taking a statistically valid sample of Sailors based on race, gender and age to ensure that we have measurements of all the demographics repre-sented in today’s Navy. This will ensure we get a true representation of those serving in the Navy.”

Aviation Machinist’s Mate 2nd Class Kelley Ward, assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 26, participated in the sizing study. “I love the idea of better fitting uni-forms,” said Ward. “With the higher number of females in the Navy now as compared to the 1980s when the last sizing study was done, it makes sense to do another study. I didn’t think the measurements would be as in depth, but I’m glad it was. They got all the mea-surements they needed to improve the fit of our uniforms.”

Once the study is complete, NCTRF will determine if the sizing of military members in the U.S. Navy and U.S. Army are similar enough to use the data the U.S. Army gathered in 2010 in lieu of conducting its own full scale scientific sizing study.

“The sizing information we are gathering today could, in the future, lead to new updated sizing patterns for uniforms, organizational clothing and personal protective equipment, which will improve fit, appearance and comfort for Sailors,” said Caulfield.

At the Child Development Center, a specially wrapped package was secretly delivered to a certain classroom while the children were having some fun outdoors.

As the kids returned to the classroom they were seated and waited patiently to find out what could be inside. For two boys in the front row, the surprise was beyond belief as Mom appeared from the top of the box!

CTI1 (IDW/SW) Heather Owens, assigned to Navy Information Operations Command Bahrain, recently returned from a 112-day deployment aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS O’Kane (DDG 77), providing linguistic support.

Mom’s Home!!

WEEKLY WARRIORMr. Abdul Rasheed Puthiyapurayil was born in Kerala, India and has been working for MWR Bahrain for 11 years. As the Recreation Assistant (Sports & Fitness facilities), Mr. Puthiyapurayil and his team are responsible for facility maintenance and upkeep within the Athletics Division. This includes gyms, ball fields, picnic areas, swimming pools and other facilities. Mr. Puthiyapurayil is an exceptional employee who is knowledgeable and has strong leadership characteristics. He is always willing to work any task or assignment as required. In the last 12

months alone, Mr. Puthiyapurayil and team have supported two Navy exam cycles, four all hands calls, and three change of command ceremonies requiring the use of this facility. Mr. Puthiyapurayil and team have assisted in all aspects of support whether it be supplying tables, chairs, PA systems, floor covering, etc. Without this support, these events would not be possible. We are proud to acknowledge him with the title of “Warrior of the Week” for his continued efforts.

Mr. Arumugam Sabapathy started working for MWR in March 2004. In his role in the Oasis restaurant, Mr. Arumugam is a hardworking and dedicated employee. His years of experience and strong work ethic make him a model for other employees. He takes on new tasks and initiatives without complaint. He can be found wiping down the outside of garbage cans in Mario’s courtyard on daily basis in the early morning hours before most people arrive at work. He is very dedicated to his job providing support to kitchen, frontline as well as extraordinary support during VIP parties and

other large events. We are proud to acknowledge him with the title of “Warrior of the Week” for his continued efforts.

Navy Conducts Sizing Correlation Study

Photos by MC1 (SW) Steve Smith

In addition to the increased capacity to the SAC and Teen programs, there are sev-eral other benefits.

“At present we are using a bus to trans-port children between the base and the school,” said Jarod Bailey, Youth Director. “The kids are typically spending 15 min-utes on the bus on the way to school and another 20 to 30 minutes after school. By eliminating the bus ride, we can use that time more effectively for the children. For instance, we will now be able to take the children to the playground or athletic field at the school for some activities after a long day in the classroom.”

Another benefit will allow kids to par-

ticipate in after school clubs and events without parents leaving work to pick them up afterward and taking them to the SAC on base. Children will be able to walk from their club to the SAC program.

Once the SAC program is moved out of the current location, the space left behind will be the new Teen Center and will increase capacity from 41 to 56 teens.

“As a parent of the program as well, I think there are going to be a lot of benefits to the move,” said Leach. “The program will be able to use the school playground, the school gymnasiums for indoor play and large group activities, and use of the fields for Youth Sports, which will benefit our program immensely.”

NEW SAC FACILITY from Page 1

October 29, 2014 The Bahrain Desert Times 5

October has been Energy Awareness Month in the U.S. since 1991. Each year, the U.S. department of Energy con-ducts energy awareness campaigns that promote the wise and efficient use of energy, especially in government offices and military installations. In the spirit of leadership and further achievement, now is the time to turn awareness into action and redouble our efforts to improve energy effi-ciency. Our theme for the Energy Awareness Month this October is:

“Energy Action = Mission Success”Turn Words into Action…Turn Action into Results

SAVE ENERGY…SAVE MONEY.In line with this, all federal employees should work

hard to integrate energy efficiency and conservation into their daily routines to improve operations and reduce cost. Wise energy attitudes, behaviors and organizational deci-sions will ensure results. This can also be done by active participation in the facilities energy action programs and aligning efforts with expanding activities. That is why NSA Bahrain is fully engaged in an active Building Energy Monitors (BEM) Program to ensure each one is involved in this campaign. In accordance with NSABAHRAININST 4100.1, each department shall appoint a Building Energy Monitor who is responsible for promoting awareness of energy/water conservation programs and serve as the cen-tral point of contact for energy and water conservation within the building.

SIMPLE ENERGY SAVING TIPS AT THE OFFICEAs the size and numbers of offices at NSA continues to rise every year, so does the amount of energy needed to run the machines and appliances needed in each facilities. This increase in office energy costs is not a new trend and prom-ises only to keep rising over the next several years.

Fortunately, whether you are sitting behind a desk or at the field, there are several simple steps you can take to help reduce the costs associated with your business environ-ment. While they all might not work in your particular office or workplace, see if any of these suggestions could help you and your command to reduce energy costs for your area. Many of these tips are not only easy, but also fast and free!Office EquipmentTurn off PCs, monitors, printers, copiers, and lights every night and when not being used. If you can’ turn off the whole computer, turn off the monitor and printers.

If appropriate, use laptop computers - they consume 90% less energy than desktop computers. Also, use ink-jet printers - they consume 90% less energy than laser printers. LightingTurn off nonessential and decorative lighting, especially in unoccupied areas. Consider removing excess fluorescent lights and installing reflectors. • Use task lighting to directly illuminate work areas instead of area lighting. • Color code or mark lights switches and circuit breakers that can be turned off when not needed. • Maximize natural lighting by opening skylights or win-dows. Air-conditioningFor optimal energy savings, set thermostats at 26 degrees C. This will save approximately 10-20% of electricity costs. Keep all doors and windows closed while building air-conditioning is on.WaterTurn off water faucet that may be dripping or while not necessary for use.

Set domestic hot water heaters at lowest possible set-

point at 40° C (105°F).Report water leaks, running toilets, etc. to your building

managers/building energy monitors (BEM).Now is the time to redouble our efforts to achieve a

clean and secure energy economy and save money. Turn awareness into action; turn intent into investment; turn opportunities into outcomes. Leaders… do your part in making the difference!

For more information or if you have any suggestions to save energy, please contact us at Public Works Department Utilities and Energy Management Branch at Tel. Nos. 439-4236/439-9141 or email us at Rogelio.coronel.ph@me.navy.mil.

Roger CoronelUEM Energy ManagerNAVFAC EURAFSWANSA Public Works Department

October 2014 is National Energy Action Month!

6 The Bahrain Desert Times October 29, 2014

HR Classified AdsANNOUNCEMENT: NSA-14-157Position: Front Desk ClerkDepartment: Unaccompanied Housing, NSA BahrainClosing Date: 08 November 2014

ANNOUNCEMENT: NSA-14-093-RPosition: Material Handler SupervisorDepartment: MWR, NSA BahrainClosing Date: Open Until Filled

ANNOUNCEMENT: NSA-14-100-RPosition: Recreation AssistantDepartment: MWR, NSA BahrainClosing Date: Open Until Filled

ANNOUNCEMENT: NSA- 14-142RPosition: Telecommunications SpecialistDepartment: NCTS, NSA BahrainClosing Date: 04 November 2014

The mission of the Human Resources Office (HRO) is to administer Human Resources Management programs for U.S. civil servants and foreign national employees of the Naval Support Activity Bahrain. HRO provides consultative advice and guidance to various commands and activities in the following program areas: position management and classification; recruitment and staffing; labor management advisory services; Equal Employment Opportunity Program; employee development; employee relations matters; and benefit entitlements.

Questions? To speak to a Human Resources Specialist, please call: 1785-4763 or DSN (318) 439-4763.

Sunday, November 2Sunday Sundae!• Free ice cream while supplies last.

Monday, November 3Speedpool Monday!• Time: 1130; Free lunch for players! While supplies last.

Tuesday, November 4Poker Bowling• Time: 1100

Wednesday, November 5Happy Birthday November Babies!

Thursday, November 6Rock Climbing Competition• Time: 1130

Sunday, November 9Sunday Sundae!• Free ice cream while supplies last.

Monday, November 10Speedpool Monday!• Time: 1130; Free lunch for players! While supplies last.

Tuesday, November 11Dart Tournament• Time: 1130

Thursday, November 13Dodgeball Tournament• Time: 1600

Friday, November 14City Centre Trip• Time: Van leaves @ 1200; $5.00 transport

For more information, call the Liberty Center at 439-3192

NSA Bahrain@

Comments & SuggestionsAll are welcome to send comments or suggestions to MWR Bahrain. Please e-mail them to: MWRSuggestionBox@me.navy.milIf you would like to receive MWR Bahrain’s e-mail announcements, just send your official e-mail to the above address.

ITTHawar Island Resort Day TripFriday, October 31• Time: 0900-1630 • Min 5/Max 11 people; ITT Price: $67.00, Adult $54.00, Age 5-12 $27.00

Al Dar Island Day Trip Saturday, November 1• Time: 0900-1400 • Min 10 people; ITT Price: $17.00

Arabic Cooking Demonstration & Dinner Tuesday, November 4• Time: 1700 • Min 5/Max 10 people; ITT Price: $23.00

Horseback Riding Friday, November 7• Time: 0830-1100 • Min 8 people; ITT Price: $26.00

Lost Paradise Water Park Friday, November 7• Time: 0930-1730• Min 10 people; ITT Price: $35.00

Guided Cultural Tour Of Bahrain Sunday, November 9• Time: 0900-1600 • Min 14 people; ITT Price: $35.00

Tree Of Life Sunday, November 9• Time: 1000-1300 • Min 8/Max 11 people; ITT Price: $5.00

Holiday Shopping At Manama Or Muharraq Souq Tuesday, November 11• Time: 0930-1400 • Min 5/ Max 11 people; ITT Price: $5.00

For more information, call x-3531All dates and times are subject to change