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The Battle of Midway RememberedThe Battle of Midway RememberedThe Battle of Midway Remembered

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W W I I r e m e m b e r a n c e

Retired U.S. Navy officer Lt. George Bernstein gives a salute during the playing of the National Anthem at the 71st Battle of Midway commemoration ceremony. (U.S. Navy photo by MC3 Bradley J. Gee/Released)

Naples honors Battle of Midway Story and photo by MCSN Luis R. Chavez, NPASE East Detachment Europe

Captain Scott Gray, commanding officer of NSA Naples, NSA Command Master Chief Charles A. Collins and Cmdr. Phillip Pelikan, command chaplain, salute a wreath in honor of those lost in the Battle of Midway.

NAPLES, Italy (NNS) -- Service members, Department of Defense civilians and their families attached to Naval Support Activity (NSA) Naples attended a memorial ceremony in honor of those who lost their lives during the Battle of Midway, June 4. The ceremony marks the 71st anniversary of one of the most prominent naval battles of World War II, which created a shift of power between the Japanese and U.S. Naval forces.“The Battle of Midway is considered the very paradigm of the spectacular reversal of mili-tary force by a weaker force,” said Gray. “The Midway victory was a pivot point. It placed the United States in a position to check the growth of Japan in the Pacific.” During June 4-7, 1942, nearly six months after the attack on Pearl Harbor, a small fleet of U.S. forces defended against and defeated four carriers of the Japanese navy during the Battle of Midway, which issued the Japanese one of their most prominent losses in naval history.“Though the Japanese force was on the move, though it had the momentum, American forces had what mattered most,” said Gray. “Selfless warriors of character and courage.

These were desperate times for our coun-try and they stepped up and steeled their resolve.”Through memorial and commemoration cere-monies people can remember those through-out history who gave their lives through selfless acts of honor, fidelity and integrity that

have shaped our nation.“This celebration is important to make sure that we always remember where we came from, those who came before us, and to honor their memory and keep track of the significant events that make us who we are today,” said Cmdr. Robert Barbee, NSA executive officer.

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Active duty, retired service members and civilians observed the heroism of World War II veterans at the 71st Anniversary Battle of Midway commemoration aboard the USS Midway Museum, June 1. The Battle of Midway took place June 4-7, 1942, where U.S. Navy carrier strike forces prevented the Japanese from capturing control of Midway Island in the Pacific. The victory proved to be a pivotal point of World War II and is an important marker in naval heritage. “History has shown that the Battle of Midway was absolutely the turning point in the war in the Pacific and probably the entire war of World War II,” said Vice Adm. Thomas H. Copeman III, commander, Naval Surface Forces, commander Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet. “It was the end of the Japanese offensive six months into the war.” During the ceremony, 13 surviving veterans, along with family and friends of those who gave the ultimate sacrifice during the Battle

Battle of Midway: 71st Anniversary CommemorationBy MC3 Bradley J Gee, NPASE West Public Affairs

The commemoration included a special video presentation that was voiced by World War II veterans involved in the historic battle. “The video gives us an idea where our veterans are coming from,” said Damage Controlman 1st Class Mike Minotti. “We got to see the veterans perspective of what happened, and it ties us closer to our heritage.” The observance also included several speakers. Retired U.S. Marine Corps officer Lt. Col. Jerry Coleman, who also served during World War II, gave the keynote speech. “If every Sailor gets a chance to interact with these veterans, they need to,” said

Minotti. “It instills a sense of pride and makes the Sailor proud.”

For more information about the Battle of Midway visit www.history.navy.mil/midway/midwaybattle-index.htm

of Midway, were honored by current military personnel and civilians, for their extraordinary service 71 years ago. “The event is to honor the veterans of Midway,” said Copeman. “It’s to make sure that the memory of the Battle of Midway and the heritage of what it stands for is not lost upon the younger generation of Sailors.”

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W W I I r e m e m b e r a n c eHeroes of Midway Remembered 71 Years Later

Lt. Cdr. George Henry Gay 1917 - 1994

Chester Nimitz, of Fredericksburg, Texas, served as Commander-in-Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet during the Battle of Midway. Due to intercepted and decrypted Japanese messages, Nimitz was able to counter offensive attacks. On June 4, 1942, under Nimitz’s order US aircraft from the USS Enterprise, USS Hornet and USS Yorktown attacked and sank four Japanese carriers; changing the course of WWII.

George Henry Gay, of Waco, Texas, was a TBD Devastator pilot in the U.S Navy Torpedo Squadron 8, operating from the USS Hornet. Of his squadron’s 30 pilots and radiomen, who courageously fought in the Battle of Midway, Gay was the only survivor. For his part in the Battle of Midway, he received the Navy Cross, Purple Heart Presidential Unit Citation.

C. Wade McClusky, Jr., of Buffalo, New York was a U.S. Navy aviator during the Battle of Midway. As USS Enterprise air group commander McClusky was credited with sinking two of Japan’s fleet carriers, Kaga and Akagi. McClusky served 1926-1956 during which he was awarded the Navy Cross.

Rear Adm. C. Wade McClusky 1902 - 1976

Fleet Adm. Chester W. Nimitz1885-1966

Rear Adm. John Ford 1895-1973

John Ford, of Cape Elizabeth, Maine, served as head of the photographic unit for the Office of Strategic Services, making documentaries for the Navy Department. During the Battle of Midway, he obtained and observed photographic record from atop the Midway Island power plant. While photographing the battle, he was wounded but continued to report battle action verbally; thus aiding the Commanding Officer in the disposition of the defending American forces.

Commodore Dixie Kiefer 1896-1945

Dixie Kiefer, of Blackfoot, Idaho, was the Executive Officer of the USS Yorktown during the Battle of Midway. The Yorktown was lost as a result of enemy action during the battle. Kiefer was injured while directing the abandonment of ship and was awarded the Navy Cross for his heroic acts during the war.

NAS Sigonella Sailor Receives Purple Heart Story and photos byMC3 Cameron Bramham

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F e a t u r e d S t o r y

Sigonella, Sicily--Master-at-Arms 1st Class Leroy Williams Jr., was one of 33 Sailors who were frocked during the Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella base frocking ceremony on NAS II, May 30.However, Williams received much more than a frocking certificate and a new set of chevrons as NAS Sigonella Commanding Officer, Capt. Chris Dennis presented Wil-liams with the Purple Heart after he was injured from an improvised explosive device (IED) while deployed in Af-ghanistan. “This award is a representa-tion of a lot of things,” Dennis said. “It’s a representation of a lot of professionalism and a lot of devotion to duty, and love. I just want to make sure that we all understand that and take time to appreciate [Petty Officer] Williams, the dog han-

dlers, and all of the fine folks at [NAS Sigonella] Security.”Williams, attached to NAS Sigonella Military Working

Dog Divi-sion, was downrange where he was tasked to the front with his canine “Dinomt,” to search for hidden explosive devices. “We were looking for a couple of high valued targets, con-sidered to be terrorists,” Williams said. “When we got close to a Taliban check point,

a remote detonation was set-off that killed my dog.”Williams said the eight pound explosive device detonated three feet away from him. Dinomt was in between the bomb, Williams and an Ex-plosive Ordinance Disposal Technician.“He actually saved my life; saved both [EOD Tech] of our lives” he added.Williams did suffer TBI (Trau-matic Brian Injury) and shrap-nel in his leg, but realizes that if it wasn’t for Dinomt, he would not have been able to receive the Purple Heart or his 1st class crows (chevrons). “Fortunately we’re both [EOD Tech] still here,” Williams said. “Every day forward, I take my dog with me. We don’t leave our dogs, no matter what. When he was killed, I picked him up, put him in my sleep-ing bag and carried him about 500 meters in order to get to a medevac.”

As humbled as Williams is for receiving the Purple Heart, he says he is very grateful for the award.“It means a lot to me,” Wil-liams said. “If you receive this award you’re not normally alive to hold it. Because I’m still here, I’m able to move forward, teach future dog han-dlers, and continue to do my job, which means a great deal to me. I’ll carry it with honor, pride, and the memory of my dog.”Although receiving a Purple Heart is a tremendous honor for Williams, he did not want the spotlight of the day to shine only on him. He was af-ter all, frocked with other NAS Sigonella Sailors.“Congratulations to everybody that’s here,” Williams said. “This is a huge and great accomplishment. I always love to see people advance to whatever pay-grade. Good luck to your future endeavors!”

MA1 Leroy Williams Jr. speaks to Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella service members after being awarded the Purple Heart. (U.S. Navy photo by MC3 Cameron Bramham)

MA1 Leroy Williams Jr. shakes hands with Capt. Chris Dennis, commanding officer, Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella after Dennis awarded Williams with the Purple of Heart (U,S, Navy photo by MC3 Cameron Bramham)

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A r o u n d T h e R e g i o nUSS Florida Visits NATO Pier Augusta Bay

NSA Naples, Security Force Gaeta Take Part in Active Shooter Exercise

(VIDEO)

Rota Sailors Compete in Multi-National Triathalon

(VIDEO)

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New SACEUR Visits Sailors in Naples

AFRICOM Commander Visits USS Samuel B. Rob-

erts Sailors (VIDEO)

Sailors from NAVSUP Fleet Logistics Center (FLC) Sigonella provided high priority Casualty Repair (CASREP) parts for the USS Florida (SSGN 728) during a recent Brief Stop for Passenger (BSP) to NATO Pier, Augusta Bay, May 29.Logistics Specialist 1st Class (AW) Richard Fox, leading petty offi cer for the Logistics Support Center (LSC) division within NAVSUP FLC Sigonella, says it’s important for him and his Sailors to embark at Augusta Bay when fl eet units come in for port visits because it’s the easiest way for the ships to take on provisions, mail and parts if needed.“When ships are transiting through the Med., to wherever it is that they’re going, they need to resupply,” Fox said. “Sigonella is the hub out here for providing materials to the fl eet and without that support they won’t get their required items to conduct their operations. Our mission is to support the fl eet units when called upon.”Logistics Specialist Seaman Kristan Marks, also from the LSC division has

Story by MC3 Cameron Bramham

made numerous trips to the NATO Pier, August Bay since arriving at NAVSUP FLC Sigonella two years ago. Marks say it’s always an experience when she travels to Augusta Bay for a replenishment evolution.“I always love the trips to A-Bay [Augusta Bay],” she added. “Just knowing that we are able to assist other Sailors who are traveling around the Mediterranean makes my job a lot easier. We get to ride out on the water taxi’s and sometimes

I feel like I’m actually headed underway and a part of the fl eet side of the Navy.” “We are an extension of the Supply Department onboard those ships and submarines”.Logistics Specialist 2nd Class (SS) David Outlaw of Priority Material Offi ce (PMO) Det Sigonella also enjoys the trips to Augusta Bay and thinks that providing CASREP parts to the Florida was an important part of NAVSUP FLC Sigonella’s mission to the fl eet.“Our mission is to track all high priority material to the

units deployed to the 6th Fleet area of operations,” Outlaw said. “I’m excited about today’s trip because it gives me an opportunity to interact with the fl eet customer while delivering critical materials to support their day to day missions.” Home ported in Kings Bay, Ga., the Florida is currently deployed, conducting maritime operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet of responsibility.

Gen. Phillip Breedlove, commander of U.S. European Command and NATO Supreme Allied Commander Europe is greeted by Adm. Bruce Clingan, commander of U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa and com-mander of Allied Joint Force Command Naples. (Photo by MC2 Jacob Moore)

NAPLES, Italy (NNS) -- U.S. Air Force Gen. Philip M. Breedlove made his fi rst visit to Naval Support Activity Naples as commander, U.S. European Command and NATO Supreme Allied Commander

Story by U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet Public Affairs

Europe (SACEUR), May 30. During the visit, Gen. Breedlove met with senior leadership from U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet (CNE-CNA/C6F) and spoke about the growing need for joint forces and the importance of the military in the region.

“Thank you for what you’re doing,” said Breedlove. “It’s working in Afghanistan and in other places. You are a part of that. The sacrifi ce of our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines is working and you should take pride in that.”Gen. Breedlove spoke to offi cers and enlisted leaders about issues concerning today’s military, inter-service and international interoperability and cooperation, and answered questions from those in attendance.

BM2 Ronnie Davis throws a bag of supplies to crew members of the Ohio-class guided-missile submarine USS Florida (SSGN728), gold crew, during a replenishment evolution (U.S. Navy photo by MC3 Cameron Bramham)

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B i g N a v y N e w sHagel: Defense

Department Welcomes Supreme

Court Decision

BALTOPS ‘13 Culminates at Kiel Week

USS Enterprise (CVN 65) Makes Her Final Voyage

(VIDEO)

MCPON SAPR MESSAGE(VIDEO)

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Defense Department officials will move forward in making benefits available to all military spouses, Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel said in a statement issued after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down the Defense of Marriage Act. The law had prevented federal agencies from offering all of the same benefits to spouses in same-sex marriages that they provide to other spouses. Here is the secretary’s statement: The Department of Defense welcomes the Supreme Court’s decision today on the Defense of Marriage Act. The Department will immediately begin the process of implementing the Supreme Court’s decision

in consultation with the Department of Justice and other executive branch agencies. The Department of Defense intends to make the same benefits available to all military spouses -- regardless of sexual orientation -- as soon as possible. That is now the law, and it is the right thing to do. Every person who serves our nation in uniform stepped forward with courage and commitment. All that matters is their patriotism, their willingness to serve their country and their qualifications to do so. Today’s ruling helps ensure that all men and women who serve this country can be treated fairly and equally, with the full dignity and respect they so richly deserve.

American Forces Press Service

KIEL, Germany (NNS) -- Baltic Operations (BALTOPS) 2013, a multinational forces exercise, drew to a close June 22 in Kiel, Germany. In Kiel, BALTOPS’ events include a post exercise discussion; ship tours of the BALTOPS Maritime Force by local government officials, military members and the public; a reception aboard USS Mount Whitney (LCC 20); as well as participation in Kiel Week. Kiel Week is a nine-day sailing festival. The event has a history of more than 200 years, attracts many world-famous participants and draws more than 2,000 sail boats and 5,000 participants yearly. “As a complement to a successful

BALTOPS, we are able to participate in Kiel Week, which provides an exciting opportunity to continue developing and enjoying relationships with our coalition partners,” said Cmdr. Lance Lesher, acting afloat deputy commander,

Expeditionary Strike Group 2. Focusing on interoperability and team building, BALTOPS promotes and fosters maritime security and cooperation among regional partners. BALTOPS ‘13 began in Ronne, Denmark and Ventspils, Latvia

with pre-sail conferences followed by an at-sea phase that included exercises focused on maritime interdiction operations, mine countermeasures, undersea warfare and seamanship. This was followed by a wargame phase which placed participants in an asymmetrical threat environment, allowing them to showcase procedures, training and cooperative efforts honed during the exercise.Participating nations included Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Latvia, Lithuania, The Netherlands, Poland, Sweden, the United States and NATO. “No nation can confront today’s challenges alone,” said Lt. Col. David Bussel, director, Joint Training, Readiness and Exercises at U.S. European Command.

Story by Expeditionary Strike Group 2 Public Affairs

Amphibious command ship USS Mount Whitney (LCC 20) leads a formation dur-ing exercise Baltic Operations (BALTOPS) 2013. (Photo by MC2 Josh Bennett.

Family and Friends Pay Final Respects to Adm. Frank Kelso II, 24th CNO

Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Jonathan Greenert ceremoniously presents a national ensign to the widow of retired Adm. Frank Kelso, the 24th CNO, at Rose Hill Cemetery on June 29 in

Fayetteville, Tenn., where Kelso was laid to rest with full military honors. He served as CNO from 1990-1994. Kelso was 79 years old. (U.S. Navy photo by MC1 Peter D. Lawlor)

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T h e M o n t h I n P h o t o s

NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain (June 24, 2013) MN2 Colin McCormick, assigned to CRG-2, swims laps at the Naval Support Activity Bahrain Training Tank. (U.S. Navy photo by MC1 David R. Krigbaum/Released)

Naval Air Station Sigonella service and community members gathered on NAS in June for the Navy Heritage Run which focused on Navy fitness and Naval history. (U.S. Navy photos by MC3 Cameron Bramham/Released)

DJIBOUTI (June 5, 2013) Camp Lemonnier Commanding Officer Capt. Peter Van Stee, flanked by first class petty officers with the Camp Chief Petty Officer 365 training team, cuts the ceremonial ribbon to officially open the Combat Café (Photo by MC1 Jerome W. Mapp)

SOUDA BAY, Greece (June 11, 2013) Sailors on the forecastle of the guided-missile destroyer USS Gravely (DDG 107) prepare for mooring as they arrive in Souda Bay for a scheduled port visit. (U.S. Navy photo by Paul Farley/Released)

DJIBOUTI- Lewis Parish, a civilian business analyst with Camp Lemonnier, plays a trumpet solo at the Djibouti International Music Festival June 21. Parish and four U.S. military members deployed to Camp Lemonnier and Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa performed together as the jazz band Horns of Africa. (U.S. Navy photo by Lt. j.g. Lily Daniels, Camp Lemonnier Public Affairs)

NAPLES, Italy (June 20, 2013) Command Master Chief Richard Hatton, left, and NCCM Ellis “Fish” Picheloupe fire up the grill at the CNREURAFSWA command picnic at Carney Park. (U.S. Navy photo by MA2 Donyelle Davis )