VO LU M E 5, IS S UE 1 Sp ring 2015 N AVY LEAG U E O F T H E U N I T ED S TA TE S w w w . nav y l eague.org TH E NAVY LEAGUER CNO Speaks at Hampton Roads T he Hampton Roads Council kicked off the year with its Annual Dinner Jan. 28. The event had outstanding representation from all of the sea services that included political, business and community leadership. ADM Jonathan W. Greenert, the chief of naval operations (CNO), was the distinguished guest speaker. In Greenert’s opening remarks, he stated that in his four years as serving in this honorable position he has been consistent in two things: “The first is that I have attended every State of the Union Address and the second that I have attended every Navy League Hampton Roads Annual Dinner,” according to a report from Council Executive Director Mary Ellen Baldwin. The council’s newly elected president, Bill Crow, welcomed the guests that included service members from PreCommissioning Units (PCUs) John Warner and Gerald R. Ford, U.S. Coast Guard Atlantic Area and U.S. Marine Corps Forces Command. ADM Philip S. Davidson, commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command, and his wife, Tracy, were welcomed to their first event since taking his new post. Greenert highlighted several issues during his remarks, including the balancing act between ship construction costs and the number of ships in the Navy in an era of shrinking federal budgets; looking into the future through a lens of increased automation for effective warfighting campaigns; and forward operations in the littorals, making sure the Navy and Marine Corps have ample capability to carry out power projection from the sea, across any shoreline where necessary. He also noted the role the U.S. Navy plays as an engine of the global economy, saying keeping our sea lanes open is a global issue. U.S. Navy photo Chief of Naval Operations ADM Jonathan Greenert speaks at the annual Hampton Roads Navy League Dinner where he provided the group with a status update on the Navy. Greenert spoke with ADM Philip Davidson, commander of U.S. Fleet Forces Command (USFF) at the USFF headquarters building for an office call and USFF all-flag officers meeting. In 2016, Hampton Roads will have supported its 25th commissioning. Council members are engaged with the PCU Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) and PCU John Warner (SSN 785), the latter to be commissioning Aug. 1. Information on commissioning activities for each ship is available at www.ussgeraldrfordcommissioning.org and www.ussjohnwarnercommissioning.org. Navy League Hampton Roads continues to support our sea services, hosting, planning and implementing myriad programs that enhance our citizenry’s understanding of the continuing need for a strong maritime defense, now more than ever. “I have attended every Navy League Hampton Roads Annual Dinner.” – ADM Jonathan W. Greenert In this issue... 2 President’s Message 3 4 5 7 NOVA Blue Angels Pacific MM Bremerton Council Night Council Council 8 Sea Cadets 9-10 11-12 Council Council Update Alert 12-13 From HQ President’s Message Dear fellow Navy Leaguers, The Navy League has deep international roots. I attended the European Region meeting in Barcelona, Spain, and had the opportunity to visit with our members from the region. What a dedicated group. The majority are nationals of the country in which they live. They support the U.S. sea services any way they can. They want more opportunities to do so, which means they want increased ship and unit visits to their countries. We held training for attendees, covering areas such as council organization, officer and Board of Director responsibilities, membership recruiting that is unique to international councils, and other topics basic to council operations. We had briefs from the Madrid Council, in operation since 1965, and from the Romania Council, which started in 2013. Both are highly successful councils. Other council presidents talked about their operations, and two themes emerged: They were recruiting new members and getting existing members to become more involved. These are familiar themes that I hear at our domestic region meetings. The Navy League is building a great foundation for international shows, most recently hosting the USA Pavilion at NAVDEX Feb, 22-26 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. With our international program, we provide meeting space and support to American government organizations, and exhibiting opportunities for U.S. companies in the Middle East/North Africa, South America and the AsiaPacific region. The events fulfill the Navy League’s mission to support the international engagement strategies of the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard. Outreach at these shows helped us attract more business to the upcoming Sea-Air-Space exposition, April 12-15, including several official international delegations; a panel that will see our own Chief of Naval Operations ADM Jonathan W. Greenert joined by his counterparts from the United Kingdom, Italy, Singapore and elsewhere; and, for the first time, a U.K. Industry Pavilion on the show floor. This program has increased the Navy League’s profile abroad and at home, and drawn attention to the amazing work our councils do on behalf of the sea services. Speaking of Sea-Air-Space, 2015 marks the 50th year that the Navy League has put on this exposition. It has grown to be the largest maritime show and professional development program in the United States. If you can make it to the Washington, D.C., area April 12-15, you ought to come and have a look. Admission is free to Navy League members. Visit Molly Long, president of the Madrid Council; Admiral Jaime Muñoz-Delgado, chief of the Spanish Navy; Navy League National President Jim Offutt; and Nick Hayes, president of the European Region, at the Madrid Council Board of Directors holiday dinner. 2 TH E N A VY LEAGUER / Spring 2015 www.seaairspace.org for complete details. Hope to see you there or at a meeting in the near future. Registration for National Convention, June 16-21 in Tampa, is open. Visit http://navyleagueconvention.org/ for more information. Remember, we have to continue to earn our position as the “Trusted Partner of the Sea Services,” and we need all hands on deck to execute our mission. My best to all of you, James H. Offut National President Navy League of the United States Frank Kendall III, undersecretary of defense for Acquisition, Technology and Logistics (center), and National President Jim Offutt pose with the aircrew of the MH-60R from the USS Carl Vinson at the NAVDEX 2015 Exposition at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre. RADM Harris Returns to NOVA Council RADM Sinclair M. Harris, vice director for Operations, Joint Chiefs of Staff (J3), made a return engagement before the Northern Virginia (NOVA) Council during its February meeting at Navy League Headquarters in Arlington. A Washington native, he spoke at the March 2011 meeting of the NOVA Council. This time around, Harris was accompanied by his wife, Cora, who is a life member of the Navy League, and a member of the NOVA Council. The admiral’s informative slide presentation amazed the gathering with just how many Combatant Command actions the J3 works on a day-to-day basis, according to a report from Council National Director Duane Wills. His remarks were entertaining as well as very informative, and attendees came away from that meeting with a deeper appreciation of the work of the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff. Harris fielded a great number of questions and comments from the group. Harris was introduced by Roger Camp, NOVA Council vice president for programs. Council President Eugene Godwin was on business travel, so Council Executive Vice President Nancy Gorell presided over the evening’s activities. As is the council’s tradition, the meeting began by recognizing several outstanding men and women from NOVA Council adopted ships and units. These included two Marines from Headquarters Marine Corps Service Battalion, Henderson Hall. LCpL Manuel Barragan-Rodriguez and Cpl Alan Flores were recognized, respectively, as Marine of the Quarter and Noncommissioned Officer of the Quarter. A special Bravo-Zulu to Flores, who had been recognized in October 2014 as Noncommissioned Officer of the Quarter. These young men were highly praised and complimented by their superiors, as emphasized by Battalion SgtMaj Craig Cressman. The NOVA Council also recognized three crew members of the USS Gunston Hall, which currently is moored at General Dynamics NASSCO-Earl Industries shipyard in Portsmouth, Va., for repairs and alterations. The awards were presented in absentia, and will be personally presented in Portsmouth by Gorell. Sailor of the Quarter was Engineman 1st Class Roberts, Junior Sailor of the Quarter was Yeoman 2nd Class Stern and Blue Jacket of the Quarter was Electrician’s Mate Fireman Hertz. After the awards, NOVA Council Vice President for Legislative Affairs Jon Kaskin reported on a successful campaign to defeat an amendment that would have harmed the U.S. shipbuilding industry. The amendment, filed by Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., as part of the Keystone Pipeline legislation, sought to repeal the U.S.-build requirement of the Jones Act. It was not attached to the bill that was approved by the Senate in late January. The pipeline bill was was vetoed by President Barack Obama in February. Dozens of NOVA Council members used the “Navy League Voice to Congress” website application to easily communicate with their U.S. senators and representatives about their opposition to McCain’s amendment, according to Wills. Photo Courtesy of Duane Wills At left, Headquarters Marine Corps Service Battalion SgtMaj Craig Cressman and Northern Virginia Council Executive Vice President Nancy Gorell, and, at right, RADM Sinclair M. Harris, vice director for Operations, Joint Chiefs of Staff, stand with Cpl Alan Flores and LCpL Manuel Barragan-Rodriguez, who were recognized as Noncommissioned Officer of the Quarter and Marine of the Quarter, respectively, during the council’s February meeting at Navy League Headquarters in Arlington. T HE NAVY L EAG UER / S p r i n g 2 0 1 5 3 Blue Angels Night at Imperial Valley Photo courtesy of NLUS Life Member John Kline The Imperial Valley, Calif., Council hosted the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron — the Blue Angels — at its monthly dinner Feb. 3 at the Mirage Club. This was the Blue Angels’ first public engagement during their training season at Naval Air Facility El Centro. The Imperial Valley Council, chartered in 1949, immediately adopted the Blue Angels when they made the decision to make El Centro their winter training home in 1967. Since that time, the council continues to sponsor the Blue Angels, and host a yearly “Blue Angels Night,” where the newly formed team is officially introduced to the Imperial Valley community. The council serves up a locally raised and hand-cut 16-ounce T-bone steak dinner to the guests. Blue Angels “Boss” CAPT Tom Frosch introduced the 2015 Flight Demonstration Team, which consists of flight officers and the support team of non-flight officers that serve as events coordinator, maintenance officer, flight surgeon, administrative officer, public affairs officer and supply officer, as well as their two Boeing technical representatives. During the dinner, Frosch presented Council President Steve Benton with the first Blue Angels lithograph of the year. The Blue Angels represent the finest from the Navy and Marine Corps. Each member, whether officer or enlisted, is hand-picked from the fleet to be part of the team. Every year, this select group begins a two- or three-year rotation traveling across the country and around the world to perform for millions of spectators. In addition to the flight officers, the team consists of approximately 100 enlisted Sailors and Marines. Alternating crews of about 45 team members travel to each show site. All career-oriented enlisted Sailor or Marine applicants come recommended for Blue Angel duty by their current commanding officer. Applicants go through extensive screening, including interviewing with the members of each of the 15 squadron work centers. The selection process 4 TH E N A VY LEAGUER / Spring 2015 Photo courtesy of NLUS Life Member John Kline secures the squadron’s tradition of excellence, ensuring the Blue Angels are a direct reflection of the professionalism of today’s Sailors and Marines. After completing their Blue Angel tour, individuals return to the fleet to continue their naval careers. Selected enlisted personnel volunteer for a three-year tour with the squadron. Though every team member brings skills in a distinct job specialty, each is expected to work beyond that specialty, contributing to the overall effectiveness of the Blue Angels. The squadron consists of seven distinct departments, jointly responsible for guaranteeing command readiness. A tribute to this dedicated team is the fact that the Blue Angels never have canceled an air show due to a maintenance problem. Imperial Valley Council Photo The Imperial Valley Council celebrated its 66th birthday with the 2015 Blue Angels Flight Demonstration Squadron on Feb. 3, with over 100 members, Blue Angels officers and Naval Air Facility El Centro personnel in attendance. CAPT Tom Frosch introduced the 2015 Team and Council President Steve Benton received the Blue Angels’ first lithograph of the season. Pacific Merchant Marine Council Engaged Besides its Navy League affiliation, the Pacific Merchant Marine Council and its members are engaged in several additional maritime organizations and events. Such is the case with the California Maritime Leadership Symposium, which meets annually, most recently Feb. 24-25 in Sacramento. Three members are instrumental in staging the event. Others are featured speakers, and still others have been recognized with awards. In fact, the lifetime achievement award has a member’s name attached to it, Gary Gregory. This year, member Norman Fassler-Katz, now retired, was recognized for his efforts as Senior Consultant, Senate Transportation Select Committee on California Ports and Goods Movement. A few years ago, networking was a Navy League buzzword and the Pacific Merchant Marine Council took it to heart. Commissioned in 2006, it immediately reached out to a maritime community frequently neglected by other councils. Bonds were formed with: ■ American Maritime Partnership, www.americanmaritimepartnership.com ■ Bay Planning Coalition, www.bayplanningcoalition.org ■ California Marine & Intermodal Transportation System Advisory Council, www.calmitsac.org ■ Coalition for America’s Gateways and Trade Corridors (“Ally” status), www.tradecorridors.org ■ FuturePorts (“Strategic Partner” status), www.futureports.org ■ Los Angeles Maritime Museum Foundation, www.lamaritimemuseum.org ■ Marine Exchange of the San Francisco Bay Region, www.sfmx.org ■ San Francisco Maritime National Park Association, www.maritime.org The executive directors of these organizations are also members of the council. Good fortune occurred when the council was seeking a Sea Cadet division to sponsor and support. The Arkansas Division, based at U.S. Coast Guard Sector San Francisco facilities on Yerba Buena Island in the middle of the bay, lacked recognition by the many councils nearby. So in 2009, the council and the division teamed up. By coincidence, the division has a maritime industry leaning. Both the previous and current commanding officers were maritime employed. A few years ago, Council President Phelps Hobart was able to arrange for a year of Seafarers International Union training for a cadet chief. With his new U.S. Coast Guard licenses, the cadet has served aboard U.S. ships and may apply to attend the Naval or Merchant Marine Academy. He paved the way for more cadets to get similar training scholarships. Photo courtesy of Phelps Hobart Phelps Hobart, president of the Pacific Merchant Marine Council, with the council’s adopted National Liberty Ship Memorial SS Jeremiah O’Brien, Pier 45 (Fisherman’s Wharf), in San Francisco. The Rosie the Riveter/WWII Home Front National Historical Park is located on the waterfront in nearby Richmond. The Band of the West Sea Cadet Division became a part of the Arkansas Division and then, two years ago, branched out on its own. In addition to presenting youth awards for the Arkansas Division, the council has provided awards for the band. The Band of the West Division would welcome Navy League council sponsorship and support. A number of members are members of other councils. Others served in the Merchant Marine. Their support is greatly appreciated. Social media is used extensively for informational and recruiting purposes. Ahead, the council will further engage within the maritime industry as well as advise elected officials and the public that the fourth sea service, the U.S.-flag Merchant Marine, is essential for our nation’s defense and prosperity. Photo courtesy of Phelps Hobart Member Norman Fassler-Katz was recognized for his efforts as Senior Consultant, Senate Transportation Select Committee on California Ports and Goods Movement. T HE NAVY L EAG UER / S p r i n g 2 0 1 5 5 Coast Guard Enlisted Standouts Recognized The Bremerton/Olympic Peninsula Council recognized the U.S. Coast Guard Air Station/Sector Field Office (SFO) Port Angeles 2014 Enlisted Person of the Year (EPOY) and the Fourth Quarter 2014 Enlisted Person of the Quarter (EPOQ) during a recent Command All-Hands gathering. At the ceremony, Navy Leaguer Ken Sweeney presented 2014 EPOY, Aviation Electrical Technician 1st Class (AET2) Trevor Sly, and the Fourth Quarter 2014 EPOQ, Machinery Technician 2nd Class (MK2) Shaine Wells, with soaring eagle statuettes engraved with their names following an introduction by the station’s commanding officer, CDR Andrew Eriks, who also detailed their achievements that led to their selection as key unit leaders in 2014. According to his citation, as the Avionics Shop supervisor, Sly led six avionics technicians and two maintenance mechanics through the successful completion of more than 4,000 aircraft maintenance labor hours. In doing so, he enabled the unit to successfully support more than 2,000 flight hours (well above the fleet average), 203 search-and-rescue cases, as well as all mission readiness requirements. When assigned as the Night Shift Primary Quality Assurance Inspector, he monitored complex maintenance practices and ensured all work was completed in compliance with manufactures specifications. His pursuit of perfection resulted in all aircraft receiving safe for flight certification after the completion of eight heavy maintenance evolutions. Sly’s fleet-wide reputation of possessing and demonstrating excellent communication skills, mountaineering experience and weapons expertise also resulted in him being hand-picked by the Coast Guard Office of Aviation Forces to participate as a recent member of a U.S. Army’s Bremerton/Olympic Peninsula Council Photo Ken Sweeney (right), representing the Navy League of the United States Bremerton/Olympic Peninsula Council, helps recognize U.S. Coast Guard Air Station/Sector Field Office Port Angeles 2014 Enlisted Person of the Year, AET2 Trevor Sly (center), along with the station’s commanding officer, CDR Andrew Eriks (left). 6 TH E N A VY LEAGUER / Spring 2015 Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command team conducting a search for two Coast Guard members missing in action since 1943 near Koge Bay, Greenland. MK2 Wells, the 4th Quarter 2014 EPOQ, Wells was cited for demonstrating superior knowledge and skills while assisting six cutters, supporting three stations, and maintaining the unit’s facilities and equipment. His efforts greatly contributed to the station attaining an unusually high Ready-for-Operations score of 97.5 percent. He also managed the work list of the Machinery Technician Shop, ensuring the completion of more than 150 Preventive Maintenance Procedures and 15 casualty repairs aboard five cutters and 14 small boats. During a busy autumn search-and-rescue season, he was able to conduct maintenance on all SFO-supported assets and facilities assets without a lapse in service, thereby ensuring that Western Sector Puget Sound vessels maintained a high state of operational readiness throughout the season. The Coast Guard has been present at Port Angeles for more than 150 years. The current Air Station/SFO Port Angeles is a dual-mission unit charged with both operational and support responsibilities. Operational responsibilities include conducting search and rescue, law enforcement/ homeland security and resource protection activities in an area that includes the Strait of Juan De Fuca and the northwestern coast of Washington around the Olympic Peninsula to the mouth of Puget Sound. The unit also provides logistical support to other Coast Guard Sector Puget Sound units located on the Olympic and Quimper Peninsulas and the northwest coast of Washington. Bremerton/Olympic Peninsula Council Photo Sweeney (right), also helps recognize U.S. Coast Guard Air Station/Sector Field Office Port Angeles Fourth Quarter 2014 Enlisted Person of the Quarter, MK2 Shaine Wells (center), along with Eriks (left). NAVY LEAGUE NATIONAL CONVENTION SCHEDULE OF EVENTS (SUBJECT TO CHANGE) TUESDAY, JUNE 16 THURSDAY, JUNE 18 FRIDAY, JUNE 19 SATURDAY, JUNE 20 4:00PM – 5:00PM Steering Committee Meeting 7:30AM – 11:30AM Nominating Committee (CLOSED) 5:00PM – 6:00PM Regional Presidents Meeting 8:00AM – 9:30AM Investment Committee Communications Committee 8:30AM – 9:30AM Town Hall Meeting with National President & President-Elect 7:30AM – 9:00AM Council President’s Breakfast and Training 8:30AM – 9:30AM Award Winner Briefing 9:00AM – 2:00PM Ship Commissioning of the USCG Cutter Richard Dixon (WPC-1113) WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17 8:00AM – 9:00AM Meetings Committee Meeting 8:00AM – 9:30AM Financial Presentation & Audit Overview 8:00AM – 9:30AM Proxy Committee Meeting 9:30AM – 11:30AM Executive Committee Meeting 12:00PM – 5:00PM Hospitality Suite 1:00PM – 4:00PM Board of Directors Meeting 5:00PM – 7:30PM Welcome Aboard Reception EVENING Dinner on Own 8:00AM – 5:00PM Hospitality Suite 8:00AM – 5:00PM Hospitality Suite 10:00AM – 11:30AM Navy League Foundation Communications Workshop Legislative Affairs Committee 10:00AM – 11:30AM Sea Services Panel 12:00PM – 1:30PM Hall of Fame & Honors Luncheon 2:00PM – 3:30PM Awards Committee Membership Committee STEM Information Exchange 2:00PM – 5:00PM Spouse Event 2:00PM – 5:00PM NSCC Board of Directors Meeting 3:45PM – 5:15PM International Committee Development Committee Coast Guard Affairs Committee 5:30PM – 6:30PM Speaker Series/ USAA Wealth Management Seminar 11:45AM – 1:30PM Sea Services Luncheon 2:00PM – 3:30PM NSCC Foundation Mentor Program Update Automated Council Annual Report Demo Maritime Policy Committee IT Committee 3:45PM – 5:15PM Youth Committee Merchant Marine Affairs Committee 5:30PM – 6:30PM Speaker Series/USAA Wealth Management Seminar 3:00PM – 4:00PM Annual Meeting of Members 4:00PM – 5:00PM New Board of Directors Meeting 5:00PM – 6:00PM New Executive Committee Meeting 6:00PM – 7:15PM President’s Circle/ 1902 Society Reception 6:30PM – 7:30PM Final Night Reception 7:30PM – 9:30PM Final Night Banquet SUNDAY, JUNE 21 9:00AM – 10:00AM Interfaith Service EVENING Dinner on Own EVENING Dinner on Own JUNE 16–21, 2015 GRAND HYATT TAMPA BAY TAMPA BAY , FL WWW.NAVYLEAGUECONVENTION.ORG T HE NAVY L EAG UER / S p r i n g 2 0 1 5 7 Many Opportunities for Navy League Cadets By Petty Officer 2nd Class Jack Hixson, NLCC Training Ship Orion, Mountain View, Calif. Many Navy League cadets struggle to figure out their place in the Cadet Corps. There are a lot of older cadets who seem to have access to better training and leadership positions. But I’m here to tell you the ways that League Cadets like me can take full advantage of all our program has to offer. I have been promoted to Petty Officer Second Class with a goal to become a Ship’s Leading Petting Officer. Being a Petty Officer means I can lead marches, staff trainings and lots more. I am able to attend various trainings, and I can choose from a huge variety of training types. I have been able to learn about the Navy and other branches of the military and their rates. I also have visited many places, such as Camp Pendleton and Camp San Luis Obispo. We are able to spend the night on various ships including the SS Lane Victory, the SS Gem State and USS Callaghan. You earn ribbons and are recognized for things you learn. I have made many new friends from all over the country. In each of the trainings I have attended I was able to learn fun and interesting things I did not know before. At my first training, League Orientation, we learned all about the Sea Cadets and military life. The fun part was making new friends. I attended Navy SEAL training, which has been my favorite so far. We learned about weapons and shooting. I received some medical training and I was able to scuba dive, which I had never done before. I built an underwater SeaPerch at STEM training. I also attended leadership training where we learned how to be leaders and take charge. I am looking forward to my next training and seeing the friends I have made. I attend bi-monthly drills where we learn naval history and marching drills. We have tied knots and have had different visitors sharing their military experiences and what they do. I have gone to different community events like Photo courtesy of PO2 Hixson, NLCC Petty Officer 2nd Class Jack Hixson (second from left) with some of his shipmates at NLCC SEAL training. the commissioning of USS America during San Francisco’s Fleet Week. We visited Coast Guard Island Alameda and were able to spend the night aboard a ship. I attended a memorial service honoring veterans who have served. We also get together with other units for challenges and trainings. Because of this program and these trainings, I am learning things I would not have known as a normal middle school student. Younger League Cadets can also select trainings just like the older cadets do. I now feel like I know more about military life. It has been an amazing experience and I am excited to attend trainings and drills. I encourage all League Cadets to join early and take advantage of all the program has to offer and don’t be afraid of trying new things! This article has been reprinted from the March 2015 “Sea Cadet Quarterly.” For more articles about teamwork, growing as a leader and an interview with Rep. Madeleine Z. Bordallo, D-Guam, check out the latest “Sea Cadet Quarterly” at www.seacadets.org/scq. Or connect with the Sea Cadets Online. http://www.seacadets.org/ www.facebook.com/usnscc https://www.twitter.com/seacadets 8 TH E N A VY LEAGUER / Spring 2015 Council News and Updates BREMERTON/OLYMPIC PENINSULA Again this year, in alignment with the national Navy League objective of supporting initiatives in science, engineering, technology and math (STEM), the Bremerton-Olympic, Wash., Council is sponsoring multiple awards at all grade levels at the Washington State Science & Engineering Fair (WSSEF). They also are assembling an esteemed judging team to help with general judging and to identify the Navy League award recipients. The fair runs March 27-28 at Bremerton High School. An estimated 600 students and 100 teachers from across the state will be in attendance, and there will be a concurrent science film festival. There will be two awards ceremonies hosted by Mayor Patty Lent. For more information visit https://wssef.org. DENVER The Denver Council held its January Council dinner at the Hilton Garden Inn on Jan. 23 in Aurora, Colo. CDR Matt Savage of Naval Recruiting Command Denver provided a presentation on the global operations of today’s naval forces. The council also presented awards to active-duty Sailors from the Naval Recruiting District Denver. Chris Puleio received a gift in recognition of her longtime support of the Denver Council. And outgoing Council President, Dan Puleio, was presented a gift clock by 2015 President Linda Morris. Commanding Officer of the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps (USNSCC) Lexington Division, LCDR David Fong, USNSCC, was presented with a check by Puleio. The Council supports the Lexington Division of the USNSCC and the Blue Ghost Training Division of the Navy League Cadet Corps. SAN DIEGO The guest speaker for the January monthly meeting of the San Diego Council was CAPT Robert A. Hall Jr., commanding officer of the USS America (LHA 6). Hall thanked the Navy League for all that they do for the Navy and its personnel. His presentation began with the statement that “he is the first commanding officer of a great ship and it gets better as it is named the USS America after our great a country.” Hall started his career as a Merchant Mariner, graduating from the Massachusetts Maritime Academy, and then transferred over to the Navy and receiving his commission from Officer Candidate School. Hall’s infectious attitude was received with laughter and awe as he told the group about the eight phases of building the ship. Hall answered several questions from our members and was presented a Navy League History book for being guest speaker. ORANGE COUNTY The Orange County Council was in San Diego on Feb. 6 to present awards to its adopted Submarine Squadron 11. The council joined Commodore Gene Doyle in presenting the Junior and Senior Sailor of the first Quarter, fiscal 2015, and the Junior/Senior Sailor of the Year Award 2014. The council presented a certificate and a cash stipend to each Sailor. Congratulations to MM1 Mitchell Gatton, YN2(SS) Mark Cardenas, EM1(SS) Jonathan Isaac and YN2 Benjamin Stone. Orange County Council Photo Orange County Navy League member Brett Nelson congratulates EM1(SS) Jonathan Isaac on his selection as Sailor of the Quarter, 1st Quarter 2015. SARASOTA-MANATEE At its annual joint meeting with the Port Manatee Propeller Club, held on Feb. 12 at the Bradenton Yacht Club, Carlos Diaz of World Direct Shipping spoke about the new service that his company recently inaugurated between Mexico and Florida. World Direct shipping operates a container ship service that provides direct, door-to-door sea cargo transport between Coatzacoalcos, Mexico, and Port Manatee, Fla. The service connects the key central and southern markets of Mexico, including Mexico City, to west Florida and the eastern United States, and vice versa. According to Diaz, their short transit times and trip frequency are ideal for perishable cargo, and for those customers that need more reliability and less handling than conventional over-the-road-trucks can provide, and they offer service for refrigerated and oversized cargo. Their service is once-per-week, with a two-and-a-halfday transit in each direction. Diaz’s presentation was very interesting, and another reminder of the economic importance of Port Manatee to the community. SAVANNAH CDR Todd Figannbaum, commanding officer of the Ohio-class ballistic-missile submarine USS Alaska Blue Crew, was the featured speaker at the February dinner meeting held at Carey Hilliard’s Banquet Center. T HE NAVY L EAG UER / S p r i n g 2 0 1 5 9 Council News and Updates The Alaska is the official adopted ship from Kings Bay, Ga., Submarine Base. The Savannah Council has gotten to know the Alaska quite well over the last several years at many events and activities with the ships officers and crew. Figgebaum reflected on the submarine service and its relationship with the Savannah Navy League, as well as discussing his boat, the way ahead and his great crew. He then presented a USS Alaska (SSBN 732) plaque to Tom Latham and Pat Yovich for the Savannah Council and the NJROTCU from Jenkins High School presented the colors. TAMPA The Tampa Council hosted the Florida Region Meeting at the Grand Hyatt in Tampa on Feb. 6-7. The nominating committee also met. National President James H. Offutt was on hand to share points of interest for the Navy League’s direction and energy. President-elect Skip Witunski presented the Scroll of Honor to Dave Sullivan, region vice president of Legislative Affairs and a National Director, for his years of leadership in the Navy League. Photo Courtesy of Skip Witunski Tampa Council President Jason Allen accepts the award for the council with the most new members from President-elect Skip Witunski WESTERN CONNECTICUT On March 19, the Western Connecticut Council was scheduled to convene for its delayed annual meeting and holiday dinner at the Riverside Yacht Club. Special guest speaker will be CAPT Carl Lahti, commanding officer (CO), Naval Submarine Base, New London. Lahti became the 50th CO of the Submarine Base in May 2013; it totals more than 680 acres and is home to 15 attack submarines. A native of Buffalo, N.Y., Lahti is a 1989 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and holds graduate degrees in Electrical Engineering and National Security and Strategic Studies. In addition to many operational assignments, Lahti served as an Associate Fellow on the Chief of Naval Operations Strategic Studies Group, a division chief on the Joint 10 TH E NAVY LEAGUER / Spr ing 2015 Staff, and as CO of the ballistic-missile submarine USS Nebraska, completing four deterrent patrols. The captain anticipates focusing on two areas in his presentation: first, the Submarine Force and the significant role submarines play in our national defense; second, the Submarine Base, its operations, its continuing transformation, and its impact on Connecticut and the local economy. With the New London Submarine Base being the oldest and largest military operation in Connecticut, this will be a timely and informative evening. The event will also include the annual election of council officers. WILLIAMSBURG-YORKTOWN CAPT John F. Meier, prospective commanding officer of the aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), spoke at the Jan. 14 meeting of the Williamsburg-Yorktown Council, held at the Port of York Club on the U.S. Coast Guard Training Center Yorktown, Va. He discussed the ship’s motto, “Integrity at the Helm,” which characterizes the life and leadership of the former president. Meier also reviewed the technologies and design features that will be aboard the Navy’s newest aircraft carrier, including a larger flight deck, electromagnetic catapults, advanced weapons systems, and a command culture that is founded on “character and quality of work.” FLORIDA Navy League Southern Region President Tom Pruter and Gulf Coast East Area President Mark Harden conducted a training session for the new officers and new board members (all pictured below) of the Mobile, Pensacola, and Santa Rosa Councils in Pensacola, Fla., on Feb. 21. The workshop provided an opportunity to better understand the tools and resources available on the Navy League national website and to set plans for the coming year. It also offered the participants a venue to brainstorm membership ideas as well as to share best practices among the councils. Summer Navy Leaguer - Coming in June 2015 Deadline for copy is Wednesday, May 20. Please send photos as separate, high-quality jpegs. Do not embed photos in Word documents or emails. Send submissions to [email protected]. Council Alert Council Alert Provided by William Waylett, Consultant for Regional Programs Grassroots Legislative Initiative This year we celebrate the 10th anniversary of our grassroots legislative initiative. This important program is managed in the field by region leaders – Region Presidents, Area Presidents and Region Vice Presidents-Legislative Affairs (RVP-LA). Is your council participating? If not, here’s the pitch: The Grassroots Legislative Initiative (GLI) fulfills the Navy League mission of educating the public and our leaders about the importance of strong U.S. sea services for both our national defense and sustaining U.S. participation in the global economy. Every member of Congress (MOC) depends on global trade to sustain the economy in their district since most business entities prosper by participating in the global economy. Our advocacy for the sea services, the people in uniform and their families is a core strategy for growth in membership of the Navy League. Council participation in the program is supported by training programs: ■ Officers, board members and interested individuals can learn the basics elements of the GLI in the Field Leader Orientation workshop, held every month on the first Thursday. ■ RVP-LA selectees, as well as Council Vice PresidentLA selectees learn the basics requirements of their job in the monthly RVPLA workshop, held on the third Thursday. Presenter workshops are held four times per month as follows: Presentation One — Navy Shipbuilding is held on the first Tuesday every month. Presentation Two — Coast Guard Modernization is held on the second Tuesday every month. Presentation Three — U.S. Merchant Marine is held on the third Tuesday every month. Presentation Four — U.S. Marine Corps is held on the fourth Tuesday every month. Every two years (this year will be the next event) the Navy League conducts a Congressional Fly-in. Teams of Navy League volunteers visit MOCs and their staff members to provide an overview of our GLI and our concerns. Special training sessions are held to prepare these volunteers for their visits to The Hill. Any Navy League leader or member who wants to participate in the GLI or just learn about this core initiative should contact their RVP-LA to schedule themselves for a workshop. RVP-LAs by region are: Empire Region — Roger Bing, [email protected] Florida Region — Dave Sullivan, [email protected] Great Lakes Region — Bob Wilson, [email protected] Liberty Region — Harry Boyd, [email protected] Lone Star Region — Tim Hunsberger, [email protected] Mid-Atlantic Region — Michael Werbowetzki, [email protected] Midwest Region — Ward Cook, [email protected] New England Region — Tomi Olson, [email protected] Northwest Region — Scott Smith, [email protected] Pacific Region — Nora Ruebrook, [email protected] Pacific Central Region — Tom Winant, [email protected] Pacific Southwest Region — Jim Bras, [email protected] Rocky Mountain Region — Jim Bras, [email protected] South Atlantic Coast Region — Don Giles, [email protected] Southern Region — Walter Reese, [email protected] Online Community Field Calendar A calendar of upcoming field events and activities is now included in the Online Community. Council, Area and Region leaders can post their events on this calendar, which can be accessed by all members. Please add your important events to this calendar. IRS Information IRS resources available to councils. If you have a technical or procedural question relating to Exempt Organizations (EOs), visit the Charities and Nonprofits homepage on the IRS.gov web site: http://www.irs.gov/Charities-&-Non-Profits/Charitable-Organizations/Exemption-Requirements-Section-501%28c%29%283%29-Organizations Reminder Council Tax Returns (IRS Form 990) are due May 15. T HE NAVY L EAG UER / S p r i n g 2 0 1 5 11 Council Alert Other important resources (partially described below): ■ EO Select Check ■ A-Z Index ■ Calendar of Events ■ Stay Exempt ■ Life Cycle ■ Free articles for your publications ■ Subscribe to the EO Update If you have a specific question about exempt organizations, call EO Customer Account Services at (877) 8295500. The Life Cycle of an Exempt Organization external link is: http://www.irs.gov/Charities-&-Non-Profits/LifeCycle-of-an-Exempt-Organization The Life Cycle tool provides information on points of intersection between organizations and the IRS. Materials include explanatory information and links to forms an organization may need to file during the five stages of its charitable life. Existing Organizations Course Summaries (download at http://www.stayexempt.irs.gov/ResourceLibrary.aspx) Workshop 1 Summary: Tax-Exempt Status Learn the ABCs of 501(c)(3) tax exemption and how to avoid activities that jeopardize it. Workshop 2 Summary: Unrelated Business Income Identify income-producing activities that generate taxable income and learn how to report and pay taxes on it. Workshop 3 Summary: Employment Issues Learn the differences between employees, independent contractors and volunteers, and the different tax treatment required for each. Workshop 4 Summary: Form 990 Walk through the steps of filling out Form 990, and learn how good recordkeeping is essential for accurate completion. Workshop 5 Summary: Required Disclosures Learn your organization’s responsibilities to disclose certain types of information to the general public. Small and Medium-sized 501(c)(3) Organizations Workshop These downloadable PDF chapters come straight out of the Small to Mid-sized Workshop participant text books offered at Exempt Organization’s one-day workshops for small and mid-size section 501(c)(3) exempt organizations. These live workshops, presented by experienced Exempt Organizations specialists, explain what 501(c)(3) organizations must do to keep their tax-exempt status. This introductory workshop is designed for the administrators or volunteers responsible for an organization’s tax compliance. Pre-registration is required. Visit the Exempt Organizations Workshop Events Calendar external link for more information. Phone Forums and Webinars This list includes various presentations provided by the Exempt Organizations team. Many can also be found on www.irsvideos.gov. Recording of presentation topics available now are: ■ Unrelated Business Income and Exempt Organizations ■ Form 990N and Form 990EZ filing tips News from Headquarters Spotlight on 2015 National Convention Tampa, Fla., Convention Chairman Skip Witunski and his team are busy working on events for this year’s convention, June 16-21 at the Grand Hyatt - Tampa Bay. Here is a sneak peek of a few events in the works. USCGC Dixon Commissioning The commissioning of this Sentinel-class patrol cutter will be held on Saturday, June 20, at 10 a.m., at Port Tampa Bay Cruise Terminal 3, with a reception immediately following. There will be an ice sculpture of the ship’s crest and the attendance is FREE; 800 to 1,000 people are expected to attend. Named in honor of Boatswain’s Mate 1st Class Richard Dixon, who as coxswain of a 44-foot motor lifeboat was credited with saving lives in Tillamook Bay, Ore., during two incidents on the July 4 weekend in 1980, will be the first Sentinel-class cutter to be homeported in Puerto Rico. Dixon, who died in 2010, was a rare two-time recipient of 12 TH E NAVY LEAGUER / Spr ing 2015 the Coast Guard Medal, one of the nation’s highest noncombat honors. Welcome Reception On Wednesday, June 20, Navy League members will meet the local mayors and congressmen, along with World War II veterans, to honor those who serve, along with officials from U.S. Central Command and U.S. Special Operations Command. The event will start out with the Sea Cadets dancing to swing music of the World War II era, and the guest veterans will judge the talent and present an award. Attendees will be entertained by the Deacon Blues Band, made up in part by emergency room doctors from Tampa General. For more information on events, contact Skip Witunski at [email protected]. Be sure to check the Convention website at http://www.navyleagueconvention.org/ for information on registration, hotel information and the program. News from Headquarters Legislative Affairs Update Navy League Legislative Affairs has started 2015 with a sprint! The 114th Congress was sworn in on Jan. 3 and new and returning members of Congress and their staffs have been getting settled. The Navy League has been working to get them quickly informed on the needs of the sea services. The Navy House Liaison Office ran a hospitality table at the orientation for new members of Congress. The Navy League sponsored the table and supplied refreshments and Seapower Almanacs, which allowed new members to become acquainted with Navy legislative staff. Also, in coordination with the Navy legislative staff, the Navy League-sponsored informational brief series is again off and running and has been very well attended. They provide an opportunity for congressional staff to receive a brief on various topics from the officer in charge of the program to gain detailed information and ask the speaker in-depth questions. The Navy League’s Voice to Congress voter engagement program is off to a big start in the new year. An amendment from Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., in the Keystone Pipeline legislation that went before the Senate in January would have removed the critical U.S.-build requirement provisions of the Jones Act. The Jones Act requires vessels in domestic waterborne trade to be owned by U.S. citizens, built in the United States and crewed by U.S. mariners. These provisions keep American shipping companies, shipyards, mariners, maritime academies and thousands of people working. In a very short amount of time, Navy Leaguers sent more than 575 letters to their senators opposing the McCain Amendment. The prompt and enthusiastic efforts of Navy Leaguers had such an impact that the amendment was not brought to the Senate floor for consideration! The Navy League also helped the Coast Guard attain regular funding. There was a very real chance that there would be a Department of Homeland Security shutdown, meaning active-duty Coast Guard men and women would be working without pay, retirees would not receive their pay, and a number of programs and contracts would be delayed. More than 11,700 e-mails were sent to Congress to help the men and women who protect our coasts and save lives to receive their well-deserved pay. Thank you for helping the Coast Guard — your voice, actions and passion made a real difference. STEM Expo at Sea-Air-Space The Navy League STEM Institute is proud to announce that it will host the Naval STEM Exposition, a one-day event in partnership with the Office of Naval Research that will highlight the importance of careers in science, technology, engineering and math in the maritime workforce (civilian and military). This event will be held on Sunday, April 12, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Gaylord Convention Center in National Harbor, Md. Hands-on exhibits range from Marine Corps robotics to virtual flight simulators. Career exploration exhibits will allow students to understand the wide range of careers needed to support our maritime nation and inform students on the type of education needed to pursue fulfilling careers. Students in grades six to 12 are encouraged to attend and set the direction of their education today to have the naval career of their future! We want to hear from you on the STEM activities your council is doing. Please send your stories to [email protected]. If your council wants to start a STEM program, please visit the Navy League STEM Institute Tools and Resources at http://navyleague.org/stem/tools.html. For SAS program, registration and hotel information, visit the SAS website at http://www.seaairspace.org/. What Is STEM Education? Why Does It Matter? By Stacy McFarland Staff Vice President, Development and Programs Some Navy League members have recently asked “Why should the Navy League be involved in STEM and, if we are active locally, why should we care about any STEM activities at the national level?” Over the past 15 years, “STEM” has become a commonly used buzz word, even though it is an acronym for science, technology, engineering and math. There are several variations of the word, including STEAM and STEM-H, which extend to cover arts and health, respectively. The National Science Foundation is credited with T HE NAVY L EAG UER / S p r i n g 2 0 1 5 13 News from Headquarters starting the STEM education initiative in 2001 in an effort to address the lack of students from the United States qualified for high-tech jobs. The nation’s workforce pipeline of qualified personnel in STEM fields needs to be greatly increased to meet the growing demand of our sea services and the corporations that support them. Many corporations and government contractors do not have enough U.S. citizens with the appropriate skill sets required to obtain security clearance, which negatively impacts both workforce development and our national security. When discussing STEM, it cannot be a grassroots or national discussion solely. Navy League councils act locally to foster an interest in our nation’s youth into these career fields. Currently there are active discussions on the Navy League’s LinkedIn page as well as the Navy League STEM Working Group regarding STEM and why it matters. Members are encouraged to join these groups, learn more and participate in the discussions. The STEM Working Group is a network-sharing platform that exists for members to share their council/area/region experiences and post questions relating to STEM and outreach. The goal is to share and learn from each other locally and nationally. The STEM discussion is not cut and dry. It is a multifaceted and constantly evolving dialogue, as it has been over the last 14 years. Many Navy League councils around the world are actively engaged in outreach to local youth through informal learning and after-school activities, and have been for quite a while. The two most commonly used kits to engage with youth are SeaPerch and First Robotics. Jerry Clusen, director of Outreach for the NLUS Greater Green Bay Area Council in Wisconsin, stated that the council is partnering with the North Coast Marine Manufacturing Alliance (NCMMA) in the use of SeaPerch for STEM outreach. They are launching their initial SeaPerch effort with two area schools in Northeast Wisconsin and the VADM Flatley Sea Cadet unit in Green Bay with four SeaPerch kits. The Navy League Southern Region has 10 SeaPerch users ranging from Sea Cadets, 4H Club, NJROTC, Military/ Maritime Academy and base After School Programs, according to Tom Pruter, Region President. These are only two examples of our councils, but there are many more. Additionally, the Naval Sea Cadet Corps is actively leading the way with the cadets to ensure they have the necessary skills to help feel the workforce demands and partnering with our councils, where able. The Navy League National Headquarters is hosting a Naval STEM Exposition, co-sponsored by the Office of Naval Research (ONR), on April 12. This is the day before the Sea-Air-Space Exposition, which facilitates ease of participation by area labs and companies. The ONR support is covering the cost of the event, ensuring all exhibitors and attendees are able to participate free of charge. The goal is to launch this first year without cost to the Navy League 14 TH E NAVY LEAGUER / Spr ing 2015 and seek corporate support for future years above and beyond the cost of the event. The excess future funds can then be used as grants to councils/areas/regions for support of STEM efforts. The Navy League STEM Institute is the umbrella under which STEM outreach can take place nationally. It was not created to supplant any local efforts; rather it was established as a way to pursue national grants and sponsorships to support local efforts. As with all programs the Navy League does to support the sea services, we are stronger as a combined unit than separate. Experiences and stories that help another council or national efforts should be shared in open forums for communication. Visit this LinkedIn site: https://www.linkedin.com/groups?home=&gid=673009 8&trk=anet_ug_hm. Talk with your local Sea Cadet unit to see what they are doing and how it could be expanded with support. Ask questions of national staff. (stem@ navyleague.org) Amazon Smile The Navy League is part of the Amazon Smile program. Amazon will make a donation to the Navy League for every purchase made under an account registered with Amazon Smile. Get your shopping done and support the great work of the Navy League at the same time. Click here to register today: http://smile.amazon.com/ ch/53-0116710 Facebook Tips Having trouble finding content for your council’s Facebook page? While original content is ideal, don’t overlook sharing. Visit pages like National Headquarters, Seapower Magazine, Sea Cadets, Sea-Air-Space or those of other councils. If you see a post you like, or think it would benefit your council, simply click the share button. Then you can either write an additional comment to go along with the post, or share the post as is. This is a fast, easy way to keep your page looking fresh and updated with content. Have a busy week? Don’t forget about the schedule function. After you type up your post, click the arrow next to “Post” and you will see the “Schedule” option. This is a great solution for anyone who needs a little help. If you ever have a question regarding Facebook, Twitter or other social media, feel free to send your question to [email protected] and we’ll try to help you out. Here are some useful Facebook pages to follow: Navy League National – www.facebook.com/NavyLeagueUS Seapower Magazine – www.facebook.com/SeapowerMagazine Sea Cadet Headquarters – www.facebook.com/usnscc News from Headquarters 50 Years of Sea-Air-Space By Kevin Traver Staff Vice President, Corporate Affairs This April the Navy League will celebrate the 50th anniversary of Sea-Air-Space. This is an amazing milestone considering the change our sea services and the trade show business have gone through in a halfcentury. In 1965, at the “new” Washington Hilton — we just held the Navy Ball at this location last year, so it is still going strong — was our first home and, if you review our current exhibitors you will notice some familiar names. We had Northrup and Grumman, we had Lockheed and Martin, Boeing, AT&T, IBM, General Dynamics and many others. We also had some companies that we would not consider as targets today, including Coca-Cola and Pepsi. We have changed venues (twice at least). We have updated our communications and infrastructure. But some things are much the same. In the 1965 program, you will see images that celebrate aircraft carriers, missile defense and shipbuilding, all major issues today. We have a professional development program that is similar and the invite list of military commands is very much the same 50 years later. The chairman 50 years ago was the venerable Morgan Fitch. As we approach the Sea-Air-Space 2015, every Navy Leaguer should be proud that our exposition is now the largest professional development platform for the Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard annually. Our Navy Reserve Celebrates Its Centennial March 3 Marked the Celebration of the U.S. Navy Reserve’s 100th Anniversary The Navy Reserve on March 3 began its year-long centennial celebration, with Navy Operational Support Centers (NOSCs) marking the Reserve’s 100 years with ceremonies around the nation. With nearly one-quarter of the Navy Reserve Force providing support to the active-duty Navy on any given day, today’s Navy Reserve is the most combat and operationally experienced force in decades. The 123 NOSCs located across the country also will mark the Navy Reserve Centennial with celebrations in their respective communities throughout the year. Local NOSCs would love the support of the Navy League if your council is able to do something as simple as provide a cake for their celebration. For more information on these celebrations, please visit http://navyreservecentennial.com/events/. Navy Reserve Sailors have deployed in every American conflict since the first World War. By World War I’s end, more than 250,000 Reserve Sailors, including 12,000 women, were on active duty. In the second Original 1965 Sea-Air-Space Invitation focus at Sea-Air-Space is to provide the best and most professionally run platform possible for the sea services to communicate with industry, the media and Congress on the needs of the naval forces. We are the largest naval exposition in the United States. We are the only exposition that can claim to support more than 22 military commands as exhibitors, the only one that can claim to be an international exposition with 15 international delegations attending in 2015 and the only one that can claim to have more than 100 flag and general officer and Senior Executive Service participants. We are the granddaddy of them all! Our show is healthy, growing and provides the Navy League with a huge communications and financial asset, providing us with a global platform from which to support the sea services and a healthy future. Please join me in saying happy 50th birthday SeaWorld War, the Navy Reserve contributed 84 percent of the Navy’s manpower, including five future U.S. presidents: John F. Kennedy, Lyndon B. Johnson, Richard M. Nixon, Gerald R. Ford and George H.W. Bush. In Korea, Navy Reserve aviators flew nearly 75 percent of the Navy’s combat sorties. Since Sept. 11, 2001, there have been more than 70,000 Reserve Sailor mobilizations. For information on centennial events, as well as the history and heritage of the Navy Reserve, please visit www.navyreservecentennial.com. To view the Navy Reserve history video, please go to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RasZBIPmouw. As part of the Navy League’s support of the Navy Reserve Centennial, March 3 — and the commemorative coffee-table book “Ready Then. Ready Now. Ready Always” — part of the proceeds from sales of the book benefit the Navy League. This book, priced at $34.95, would make a beautiful gift for the Reservist in your life, or anyone interested in maritime history. So, visit the NLUS-specific shopping portal https://upress. qg.com/nlus to get your copy today! You must register as a new user (scroll down to see that bit) so that the Navy League can get credit for the purchase. T HE NAVY L EAG UER / S p r i n g 2 0 1 5 15
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