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The American Red Cross:

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National Night Out:

Americans and Italians coming

together for community security!

SIGONELLA, SICILYAugust 8, 2014 cnic.navy.mil/sigonellaVol. 31 No. 31

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - Service and community members at Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella joined together at the Marinai Base Housing complex Aug. 5, for the annual National Night Out (NNO) event.

Sailors from NAS Sigonella’s Security Department invited Marines from Special Purpose Marine and Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) Africa 14 and multiple Italian military and police forces on base to remind everyone at NAS Sigonella how important security is for the community while building closer ties with our Italian community.

“This event is for Americans and Italians to come together because in many ways we all have the same purpose which is safe streets for Americans and Italians,” Capt. Christopher Dennis, NAS Sigonella commanding officer said. “Our police come together with Italian police in the spirit of cooperation and brotherhood.”

The NNO event began with a parade through the Marinai streets displaying law enforcement, safety, fire prevention, Marine, and Italian police force vehicles. The parade concluded at the Marinai soccer fields and also included military working dogs and their trainers, as well as Italian horse-mounted police units.

“It’s extremely larger from last year and we’ve got more local law enforcement out here this time and it’s definitely a blessing,” Chief Master-at-Arms John Carel, NNO coordinator said. “It’s bringing us closer together because we really don’t get to participate with them that much.”

At the soccer fields, attendees were able to see weapons and equipment on display from NAS Sigonella security forces, Special Purpose MAGTF Africa 14 forces, and Italian 41st Stormo security forces. Other events during the evening included military working dog displays by NAS Sigonella security and Italian Carabinieri forces, informational booths, and a free bicycle raffle for two free bikes.

Preparedness tips for all seasons in Sicily

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - The Sigonella community is adjacent to an active volcano, situated atop active fault lines and is on an island in the middle of a large ocean area. Each of these truths brings its own unique environmental challenges and potential hazards. In the recent past NAS Sigonella (NASSIG) has been subject to significant ash fall from Etna’s eruptions, experienced earthquakes and has been inundated by large rain storms, sometimes causing flooding in the NAS 2 and Marinai Housing areas. Each hazard may result in blocked roadways, power and water outages, uninhabitable living conditions or traffic jams on local highways. There are a number of local weather and volcano watch sites available on the web. These are not official government sites but provide a wealth of information concerning our local conditions. Before we get to those issues specific to Sigonella, here are some general tips:

Have a Plan: Another important tool you and your family need to prepare for possible emergencies is a family preparedness plan. Everyone in the family should understand what to do, where to go, and what to take in the event of an emergency. Your emergency plan should include how your family will communicate with each other, particularly if normal communication methods, such as phone lines or cell towers, are out. Have a contact person outside the area that each member of the family can notify that they are safe. Also, plan ahead for how you will evacuate the area and where your family will meet if you are evacuated separately.

Drive Safely: One of the biggest hazards we face at Sigonella is dangerous driving conditions. Two words of caution: SLOW DOWN! Most accidents are caused by excessive speed coupled with inattention and unfamiliarity with Italian roads. During fall and winter

see "tips" page 12

THE

BY JEff KINSmANNAS Sigonella Emergency Management Officer

Sigonella celebrates National Night OutBY mC3 CAmErON BrAmHAmNAS Sigonella Public Affairs

Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella community members walk with Italian horse-mounted police units during the National Night Out event, Aug. 5, at Marinai Base Housing Complex. More photos can be viewed on pages 8 & 9. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Cameron Bramham/Released)

Quick reference emergency guideEmergency numbers: NAS Sigonella Security Dispatch: 624-1911 (DSN) or 095-86-1911 (off-base)U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella Quaterdeck: 624-3842 (DSN) or 095-56-3842 (off-base)Local Italian Police, Fire, and Hospital numbers: _______________________

Have a Plan: When a disaster happens, your family may not be together in one place. You need to pick places to meet, have contact information for everyone, and discuss in advance what you will do during various types of emergencies. Making a plan includes two main components: (1) a written emergency plan and (2) a written communication plan.

Emergency Kit Necessary Items:Water—at least one gallon per person per day for 3-7 daysFood—nonperishable food to support everyone in the household for at least 3 days (Include canned goods with low salt and high liquid content)-Manual can opener-First aid kit-Prescription medications—enough for at least three days-Dust masks or cotton t-shirts for every member of the household to help filter the air-Personal sanitation supplies—items such as moist towelettes (one container for every two people in the household), garbage bags, and plastic ties-Flashlight—one flashlight for every two people in the household-Battery-powered or hand-crank radio-All-hazards NOAA weather radio-Extra flashlight and radio batteries -Money (at a minimum, $100 in local currency, small denomination bills)-Wrench or pliers for turning off utilities-Local maps and your family emergency plan-Your command muster information-Important personal and financial documents—printed copies or electronic copies on a durable storage media such as a thumb drive and stored in waterproof container

NASSIG media outlets to inform our community:• Register on CDNS to get emergency bulletins sent to your media devices • AFNRadio(FM105.9)• The Signature newspaper • NASSIGFacebeook:https://www.facebook.com/nassigonella• NASSIGRedCross:https://www.facebook.com/ARCSigonella

see "NNO" page 8

SIGNATUrESPECIAL EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS EDITION

THE SIGNATUrEPAGE 2 August 8, 2014 THE SIGNATUrE PAGE 3August 8, 2014

DRIV

E SA

FELY

SIGO

NELL

A

NASSIG WORSHIP SERVICESROMAN CATHOLICSunday■ 9 a.m. Catholic Mass (naS I Chapel)

TuESday - FRIday■ 11:30 a.m. Catholic Mass (naS II Chapel)Sacraments of Reconciliation/Penance precede each Mass

FRIday■ 11:30 a.m. Catholic Mass (naS I Chapel)

PROTESTANTnaS I ChapelSaTuRday■ 6:30 p.m. Contemporary Worship Services

Sunday■ 10 a.m. Sunday School■ 11 a.m. Traditional Worship

naS II ChapelSunday■ 5 p.m. Protestant Evening Service

LATTER-DAY SAINTS Sunday at 1:30 p.m. (naS I Chapel)Contact: sigonellalds@gmail.com or 624-9049

JEWISH SHABBAT LAY SERVICEFRIday at 5:30 p.m. (naS I Chapel)

NIGHT STUDYWEdnESday at 5 p.m. (naS I Chapel)

■ Italian Class Tuesday at 7 p.m (Classroom at naS 1 Chapel)

■ aa Meetings: MOnday at 5:30 p.m. (naS I Chapel) second deck; THuRSday at 7 p.m. (naS II Chapel)

naS Sigonella Religious Ministries department Facebook page:https://www.facebook.com/navalairStationSigonella Chapel

Chapel Offices: naS I 095-56-3975, naS II 095-86-9049, dSn: 624-3975, CHAPLAIN DUTY: 335-831-4493 RP DUTY: 335-786-1950

Executive Officer, Cmdr. Charles G. McKinney IIDirect Line

THE SIGNATUrEU.S. NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLACommanding OfficerCapt. Chris DennisExecutive OfficerCmdr. Charles G. McKinney IICommand Master ChiefCMDCM David Graham

EDITORIAL

Public Affairs Officer Lt. Paul Newellpaul.newell@eu.navy.mil

EditorM. Todd Butlermichael.butler@eu.navy.mil

Community Relations Officer Dott. Alberto Lunettaalberto.lunetta.it@eu.navy.mil

PAO Staff Writers \ PhotographersMC1 Tony D. Curtisanthony.curtis@eu.navy.mil

MC3 Cameron Bramhamcameron.bramham@eu.navy.mil

CONTACT USNaval Air Station Sigonella, Sicilythesig@eu.navy.milDSN 624-5440; 095-86-5440PSC 812 Box 7, FPO, AE 09627-0001

PUBLISHERStampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher,Naval Support ActivityCapodichino (Naples), Italystampagenerale@tin.itTel. 081-568-7884Fax 081-568-7887

This civilian enterprise (CE) newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services overseas. Contents of The Signature are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense (DoD), or the U.S. Navy. The appearance of advertising in this newspaper, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the DoD or Stampa Generale S.r.l., of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factorof the purchaser, user or patron. A confirmed violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected.

The Signature is published weekly by Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity, Capodichino (Naples), Italy. Tel. 081-568-7884. Fax 081-568-7887. E-mail: stampagenerale@tin.it.

Editorial submissions are welcomed from all Naval Air Station Sigonella departments, divisions and tenant commands. Editorial submissions should be sent to the Public Affairs Office via thesig@eu.navy.mil, guard mail stop #68 or hand-delivered to our office no later than the close of business on the Fri-day proceeding the expected publication date. All articles submitted by non-staff members will be considered contributing writers.

The Signature will not publish anyanonymous articles. All advertisements in this publication are the property of Stampa Generale S.r.l. Any reproduction of advertisements in The Signature is unauthorized without the written consent of the publisher.

cnic.navy.mil/sigonella

Imagine you are home eating breakfast with your oldest child while the nine-month old baby is napping in her crib. Your spouse just left for work 15 minutes ago. While filling a second cup of coffee you are violently thrown to the ground by an intense movement almost immediately followed by a thunderous boom. In a matter of seconds a large crack runs through the kitchen wall as plates crash to the ground, followed by the plummeting of the cabinet they were stored in. The cabinet settles near where your eldest was sitting, and all you can sense now are his screams for help. Still paralyzed by the violent shaking, there is nothing you can do except scream to him for a response – a scream muffled by the clamor all around. What was moments ago a beautiful, sunny Sicilian morning has been eclipsed by chaos and terrifying uncertainty. The only question you can answer at this time is whether your family made preparations to properly respond and survive such a catastrophe?

Despite major eruptions that occur once every three to five years, Mt. Etna is a strombolian volcano, which means it constantly vents. Etna has not claimed a life for nearly 400 years (as opposed to mainland Vesuvius, which builds energy until it erupts violently). However, the complex convergent boundary that formed Etna is a source of great seismic activity. Not far from our workplace and homes throughout this area is where the African and Eurasian Plates meet. In a nutshell, this area lies near a major fault line that has been cause to major earthquakes here in the past – quakes that have caused great death and destruction. In addition, NAS Sigonella lies in a major flood plain. You’ll hear firsthand the devastation a bad flood can cause if you have spoken to anybody who was here in December 2005 when NAS 2 and Marinai were covered in several feet of water that disrupted operations and peoples’ lives, and cost the government millions in damages.

Aside from the fact that most tours of duty go by without incident, there have been precedents set and we would be fool-ish not to be prepared if something were to happen. The reality is that for this area, it is not “if ”, but “when.” Two things should be mandatory during your time here, and really anywhere you live: 1) A plan for you and your family members to follow in the event of natural disaster. Places to meet and protocols to follow

will help your loved ones effi-ciently respond when disaster strikes. 2) An emergency re-sponse kit. In the scenario above, a big cabinet fell on that person’s child. Assum-ing that the boy suffered lacera-tions, a nearby emergency kit close to the home’s exit(s) stocked with quick-access bandages might have a huge influence on how the rest of your life plays out. By not having the bandages in a central location, and rely-ing on access to a room that might be unreachable, that child’s life may now be in danger if the bleeding is heavy enough. This all sounds dramatic - because it is. Flip through this edition of The Signature, and you will read some great articles and tips on how we can best respond to emergencies, both personally and as a community.

On a final note, we still have August to enjoy (with plenty of hydration, please!). However, that’s it before our children are back to school absorbing what their teachers have in store for them. A couple of reminders as we make our return preparations. First, have you registered your child for school? Whether you plan to send them to DoDDS, or out on the economy, they should be registered by now. Please take the time to set them up for success by doing so. Second, you may want to gradually ease children back into their schooltime routines so that it isn’t such a shock when school begins. Finally, as a reminder, I strongly urge you to promote reading and working on some refresher math skills if they have not done so in a while. I know plenty of you have had your children reading and writing since school let out, but for those who have not, you may want to consider doing so. Not a lecture, just a suggestion!

Enjoy your last few weeks of summer, Sigonella!NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - Sailors from Coalition

of Sailors Against Destructive Decisions (CSADD) at Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella and U.S. Navy Hospital (USNH) Sigonella joined forces for a “Keep What You Earned” challenge at NAS 2, July 30.

“We’re trying to raise the awareness of alcohol, alcohol use, and the responsible use of it,” Hospi-tal Corpsman 2nd Class Cuinn Poole said. “To-day’s event was a way to raise morale and let people have fun while incorporating smart decisions when drinking.”

Five teams of six members each competed in the challenge which was made up of five different stag-es, each one pertaining to a theme which simulated the effects of alcohol within the Navy lifestyle. Each team was also required to have two E-7s or above and one female on the team.

The challenge began with a knowledge check of different scenarios involving alcohol. Each correct response subtracted 50 sit-ups from a total of 500 that had to be completed by the team as a whole be-fore being allowed to move on to the next station. With a total of five questions being asked, each team had the opportunity to do 250 sit-ups as oppose to 500.

“We do events like this at the hospital but this was the first time all of the other command CSADDs got together,” said Poole, USNH Sigonella CSADD Hospital President,

For those involved, the challenge was a way to learn about the effects alcohol can have on their bod-ies and minds while simulating scenarios on how to help each other while being intoxicated.

Another station included a tricycle challenge where team members had to guide their teammates while they maneuvered the tricycle around cones

while wearing beer goggles, which gave off the view of what a driver is seeing when they drink and drive. The beer goggles were also used in another station where team members had to pin a rank insignia on a Navy uniform while wearing the goggles.

“It was obviously a teamwork oriented chal-lenge and we had to help each other,” Wolverines' team member and Hospitalman Carly Gish said. “I thought of the buddy system when you go out drink-ing you need someone there to have your back and guide you.”

Gish added that she learned a lot participating in the challenge and hopes to spread the word about how much someone’s body is affected if they drink too much alcohol in one sitting.

“Our ultimate goal today was to get the word out about how to make better decisions, especially with alcohol,” Gish said. “People don’t realize that your mind really is altered when you’re drinking alcohol. The beer goggle game really puts it in perspective on how much your vision can be altered.”

Although the main theme for the event was to raise awareness about the effects of alcohol, Poole hopes that everyone involved was able to enjoy their time with their teammates during the challenge.

“There are other options out there and one of them is by raising morale,” Poole said. “Teams out here today looked like they were having a good time, laughing, trying to figure stuff out together. It was a lot of fun!”

Poole believes the challenge was successful and wants to do another one real soon. He says that he would like to make it bigger and have more teams involved as well. “This was our first one together, we probably planned it for a month and a half, and we hope to do another one real soon,” Poole added.

CSADD hosts challenge competition at Sigonella

Chief Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Equipment) Jason Slama (right) guides Logistics Specialist Seaman Cierra Lovell during a tricycle challenge station as part of the “Keep What You Earned” challenge Aug. 4 on NAS 2. This event was hosted by Sailors of the Coalition of Sailors Against Destructive Decisions (CSADD) at Naval Air Station Sigonella and U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Cameron Bramham/Released)

BY mC3 CAmErON BrAmHAmNAS Sigonella Public Affairs

Fleet Engagement Team visits base

Capt. Bruce Deshotel, Head Enlisted Community Manager at Military Community Management in Millington, Tenn., speaks to E-6 and below Sailors, Aug. 4 at Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella. During his two-day visit Deshotel provided insight, background, and in-depth information on Navy programs and policies and also answered questions the Sailors had about their Navy careers. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Cameron Bramham/Released)

U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella Executive Officer Capt. John Lamberton, the "most experienced" Medical Service Corps (MSC) officer, and Lt. Nicole Martin, the "least experienced" MSC officer, cut the ceremonial cake at the MSC birthday celebration on Aug. 4. MSC officer's are a diverse officer corps which includes Physician Assistants, Industrial Hygienists, Medical Technologists , Dietitians, Aerospace Psychologists and many other professionals in fields endeavored by Navy Medicine . (U.S. Navy Photo by Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Matthew Clutter/Released)

Medical Service Corps celebrates 67 years

THE SIGNATUrEPAGE 4 August 8, 2014 THE SIGNATUrE PAGE 5August 8, 2014

C A L E N D A R

August

2014

Friday

8 Arrivederci Class8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

FFSC

Aromi and Scicli by Night

1:15 p.m. - 12 a.m.ITT

Saturday9

Etna South Tour & Barone di Villagrande

Winery8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

ITT

Tandem Sky Diving7 a.m. - 3 p.m.Outdoor Rec

Sunday10Saint Lorenzo's Night: Shooting Stars & Din-ner at Borgo Antico

6:30 - 11:30 p.m.ITT

1/2 price Bowling11 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Sparetime Bowling*Every Sunday

Monday11

You and Your Kids: Financial Literacy in

Action9 - 11:30 a.m.

FFSC

Missoula Children's Theater Auditions: Hansel and Gretel10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Knights Hall, Sigonella Elementary

Tuesday12Etnaland Water Park

9 a.m. - 5 p.m.Youth Complexc

Wednesday13

Sponsor Training9 - 11 a.m.

FFSC

Thursday14

Sig Safe9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

FFSC

15Relocation Fair

1:30 - 3 p.m.FFSC

Missoula Children's Theater presents Hansel and Gretel

6 p.m.Knights Hall, Sigonella

Elementary

16Palermo and Mondello

Beach6:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.

ITT

Beach Day10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Liberty

17Fireworks at Elephant Square & St. Agatha

Festival4 - 10:30 p.m.

ITT

18Transition GPS8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

FFSC

19 Transition GPS8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

FFSC

20Transition GPS8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

FFSC

21Transition GPS8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

FFSC

22Transition GPS8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

FFSC

VA Representative8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

FFSC

23Lipari Express

6:30 a.m. - 9:30 p.m.ITT

Marzamemi Boat Tour7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Liberty

24Agrigento: Valley of the Temples & Wine

Tasting8 a.m. - 6 p.m.

ITT

FFSC: x4291ITT : x4777, x4396

Liberty/Connections/Take 5: x4246, x5602Outdoor Rec: x4777, x4396 Fitness: x4483, x5243

Midtown 2 Theaters: x4248American Red Cross: x4900

Does your command or organization have an event you’d like to see on the Community Calendar? Email us at thesig@eu.navy.mil and let us know!

IMPORTANT EXTENSIONS:

Concern regarding fitnes center dress code:Respectfullyrequestingthatthedresscodeatthefitnesscentersbeenforcedmorevigorously.Itis distasteful to see females in there in nothing more than glorified swimsuits and males grunting their way through workouts in sleeveless rags. The regulations are duly posted in both complexes yet sadly not enforced whatsoever.

Response: Thank for your inquiry. Both fitness centers do have proper attire posters posted at each facility. These dress codes are established by CNIC for all Navy Fitness programs. Accordingly, our fitness management team and staff are aware of this challenge and we are watching to ensure that all patrons abide by the policies set forth. However, if you observe any further infractions of the CNIC dress code policy, then please feel free to report it directly to the on-duty staff so they (we) cancorrect/informtheuser.Otherwise,atyourconvenience,pleasecontact theMWRAthleticDirector, Mr. John Lenz, at fitness_sigonella@eu.navy.mil or 624-0504.

Once again, thank you for your valued feedback.

Are you ready for the Zombie Apocalypse? BY D. LEA HAYESNaval Air Station Sigonella Fire Chief

*This article previously ran in our April 18, 2014 edition. Because It provides some excellent tips on emergency preparedness we are running it again for yor enjoyment.

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - Chances are that while you think you may be ready, you are not! The Center for Disease Control has published on their website a cute and funny comic with a general listing of supplies you may need in case of the zombie apocalypse. But wait!? What are they trying to tell me? Are zombies real?? Is this a real threat? The answer to this question is a re-sounding NO but if you are ready for the zombie apocalypse you will most certainly be ready for any other emergency because the same emer-gency preparedness kit you would make for the apocalypse is also the one you would need for all hazards! What types of hazards do we mean?

Hurricanes, floods, earthquakes, volcano eruptions, tsunami, wild fire, etc are just some of the hazards that you could face. What if you had to evacuate your home quickly and go to a near-by shelter? Are you ready for that? Do you have everything you need? The best way to know is to prepare a kit. I know, I know, that sounds crazy and expensive. Where would I store it? How do I know what I really need? Creating your kit is easier than you think.

Lists of common items for your emergency kit are available on the Center for Disease Con-trol’s Website (http://www.cdc.gov/phpr/zom-bies.htm) and the Federal Emergency Manage-

ment Ready.Gov Website (http://www.ready.gov/build-a-kit).These lists are guides to helpyou prepare a kit that will help you and your fam-ily prepare for at least the first 72 hours after an emergency until first responders can reach you or if you are evacuated the kit will have essentials you will need in the shelter to help your family feel more comfortable. So where do I start?

Use a large suitcase with wheels and make a scavenger hunt around the house for items that you want to put in your kit. Get the kids involved!! Remember those old faded jeansyour husband or wife wanted you to throw away? Well make those your extra clothes in your kit. How about an old set of sheets and blankets? Make sure everyone has a set in the kit ready to go so you aren’t searching when the emergency happens. Put a small travel game or two in the kit that you can play as a family at a shelter site. Video games may not be able to be charged so having something fun for all to do will help ease the anxiety of a strange location in a difficult time.

The important thing is to make a kit today. Have your family help create the kit and make sure they know where it is if you are not there. Ask your doctor to allow for 10 days of medica-tion, put a spare set of house keys in your kit, ex-tra batteries, a small radio and some simple food items such as tuna packets, salt free crackers and always a supply of water. You will be ready not only for the zombie apocalypse but all hazards inyourcommunity.BeReady!!!!

Need an appointment at the hospital? Call DSN

624-CARE(2273)or commercial 095-56-2273,

M-F: 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

For non-emergent medical questions that arise over the weekend, holidays, or after

office hours, please call 335-578-8077 if you are normally seen

at the hospital or 335-578-8150

if you are normally seen at the Flight Line Clinic.

There are two ways to submit feed back to Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella Commanding Officer Capt. Chris Dennis.

Visit The Interactive Customer Evaluation (ICE) home page on a One-Net computer at: http://ice.disa.mil, All Sigonella services are found under the Navy Europe Listing in the scroll-down menu. Also, visit NAS Sigonella's website www.cnic.navy.mil/Sigonella, go to the "About" drop down menu and click on " CO Suggestion Box".

The Signature will anonymously publish comments and responses for the benefit of the Sigonella community. Please make sure your comments and suggestions are constructive. In other words, "BE NICE ON ICE."

Commanding Officer's Suggestion Box

THE SIGNATUrEPAGE 6 August 8, 2014 THE SIGNATUrE PAGE 7August 8, 2014

August Festivals & Events in SicilyBY mC2 COrEY HENSLEYU.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet Public Affairs

NAPLES, Italy (NNS) -- Adm. Mark Ferguson, commander, U.S. Naval ForcesEurope-Africa(NAVEUR-NAVAF),heldanall-handscallwithSailorsat Naval Support Activity, Naples, Capodichino's base theater, July 29.

Ferguson, who recently took command, kicked off the event by introducing himself to Sailors, and talked about his guiding principles, vision and guidance, and expectations going forward.

"We are in a strategic environment right now that is changing dramatically, and if you think about it, there are some big trends that concern us," said Ferguson. "So, as I think about coming into the theater, I think about 'what are the things that we have to focus on,' because we are one of the few areas that are growing. As a growing presence, we have to sustain the warfighting readiness of our forces."

Ferguson praised Sailors for their success in executing operations forward and challenged them to maintain their level of excellence.

"I expect you to be bold and empowered," said Ferguson. "Problems come with solutions. You have to be innovative and you have to think about the new challenges we face in this new security environment. We must approach this with a 'we are a team' attitude and I view that we succeed as a team."

The Chief of Naval Operations' Warfighting Tenets of 'be ready, warfighting first and operate forward' were highlighted by Ferguson in his own lines of effort, as he asked Sailors to think about how they could apply the tenets to dailyoperationsatNAVEUR-NAVAF.

Ferguson's lines of effort for NAVEUR-

NAVAF, in following closely with the CNO's Tenets, are as follows:1.SustainWarfightingReadiness.Provide readymaritime forcescapable

of conducting maritime operations in support of Combatant Commander tasking.

2. Strengthen Alliances and Partnerships. Strengthen alliances and partnerships through engagements, operations and training - individually and as a command.

3. Conduct Operations Forward. Execute the full range of naval operations by employing innovative approaches across the spectrum of warfighting capabilities. Conduct operational planning for current, future and contingency operations.

"We are the Navy forward, we have forces that need to be ready and we are ambassadors for the U.S.," said Ferguson. "It begins with us and how we take care of one another."

Ferguson also touched on what he and the command owed Sailors, including a responsible and professional work environment that values each and every Sailor and their families, while providing the tools for success.

"I have to give guidance that is clearly written and expressed in a way that you can understand and execute your mission," said Ferguson. "I am a great believer in collaborative discussions. We'll have the debate, make the decision and execute. My plan is to listen, learn and lead."

Ferguson concluded the all hands call by telling all those in attendance that each and every one of them, despite rank or whether they military or civilian employees, are important to the team's overall success.

"All of you sitting in this room make up the highest quality force that we have ever had in our history, period," said Ferguson. "You're more educated then generations of Sailors that came before you. You're the best force we have ever had, and I take great comfort in that."

NAVEUR-NAVAF Commander shares his vision and guidance during All Hands Call

Medieval Festival in Motta (Aug. 9/17) Bring the whole family for a trip back in time! The Motta Feste Medievali (Medieval

Festivals) bring to life the customs and spirit of the Middle Age. Travel back in time to revel in the atmosphere of medieval Sicily when this sunny island was under the Norman, Spanish and Muslim rules! Every summer, Motta is turned into a medieval village to honor an old tradition celebrating its past.

ThefestivaltakesplacewithinthethreecityRioni(districts):Panzera(locatedalongviaVittorio Emanuele and around piazza Umberto, southern part of the town), Vecchia Matrice, (castle area) and Giovani Maestri (upper part of Motta).

Each district has its own proud tradition and schedule of events that include medieval plays and performances. This year’s festival runs from Aug. 9 - 17 featuring a plethora of events such as medieval cooking, craft displays, music, jousting, jesters, minstrels and other street entertainers.

For more information and detailed schedules visit the following websites: http://www.comune.mottasantanastasia.ct.it; www.casanormanna.it; www.sbandieratori-maestri.it and www.rionepanzera

Opera : Puccini’s Tosca at Taormina Greek Theater (Aug. 9/11/13) Tosca is an opera in three acts by Giacomo Puccini to an Italian libretto by Luigi Illica and

Giuseppe Giacosa. It premiered at the Teatro CostanziinRomeon14January1900.Thework,based on Victorien Sardou’s 1887 French-language dramatic play, La Tosca, is a melodramatic piecesetinRomeinJune1800,withtheKingdomofNaples’scontrolofRomethreatenedbyNapoleon’s invasion of Italy. It contains depictions of torture, murder and suicide, as well as some of Puccini’s best-known lyrical arias, and has inspired memorable performances from many of opera’s leading singers. The dramatic force of Tosca and its characters continues to fascinate both performers and audiences, and the work remains one of the most frequently performed operas. Stage Director & Set Designer: Enrico Castiglione. Where: Greek Theatre, 9:30 p.m. – Saturday, August 9, Monday, August 11 and Wednesday, August 13.

Three amazing opera performances, by world-renowned director Enrico Castiglione, that will be featuring the elegance of the costumes of Sonia Cammarata. Musi will be played by the Sicilian Opera Chorus and the Orchestra of the National Turkey directed by Cem Mansur, singerswill beElenaRossi asTosca,NesterMartorel asCavaradossi, Scarpia asFrancis Landolfi, John Di Mare as Sacristan, Andrea Lentini as Angelotti and Sciarrone, Giuseppe Distefano as Quill, M. Munafo Alberto in the Jailer and Antonella Leotta as Shepherd. A production produced by the Taormina Foundation in collaboration with Euro Mediterranean Festival Taormina Arte.

Tickets on www.boxol.it ; www.ticketone.com or Ticket Office in Taormina: +39 0942-628730.

Operetta Gala at Taormina Greek Theater (Aug.10)The most beautiful arias, romances and music of the most famous operettas, under the

directionof SalvoMiraglia. Formore information and tickets visit http://www.taormina-arte.it/

TwosymphonicconcertsattheGreekTheaterofTaormina(Aug.12/14)Two symphonic concerts will enrich the section Music & Dance of Taormina Arte,

masterfully directed by Maestro Enrico Castiglione. On August 12, an extraordinary orchestra, the Turkish National Orchestra (which last year just in Taormina has distinguished itself in a beautiful concert with Shlomo Mintz), directed by one of the most versatile conductors Turkey, Cem Mansur, for a Concert symphony for fascinating at the Teatro Antico inTaorminadedicated toRussia,withspectacularexecutionofpages likepicturesat an Exhibition by Modest Mussorgsky and the Concerto for violin and orchestra no. 1 of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, the prodigious solo Marianna Vasileva. On 14 August the Turkish National Orchestra, conducted by Cem Mansur, offers a second Symphony Concert at the Teatro Antico in Taormina entirely dedicated to German, with execution of pages of great importance such as the Concerto for piano and orchestra no. 1 by Ludwig van Beethoven, withAnthonyFiumaraat thepiano, the"Danceof theSevenVeils" fromRichardStrauss'SALOME (of which we celebrate this year the 150th anniversary of his birth) and "Prelude andIsolde'sdeath"from"TristanundIsolde"byRichardWagner.

Norman Palio in Piazza Armerina (Aug. 12/14) Since 1952, Piazza Armerina, an enchanting town in the Enna province, has hosted

the most ancient medieval event in Southern Italy, which takes place every year from Aug. 12-14 to pay tribute to Madonna Maria SS. Delle Vittorie, the town patroness saint. The event features a spectacular reenactment of the 1060 conquer of Sicily by the Normans led byKingRogerofAltavilla.Attheendoftheevent,thewholeprocessionparadesthroughthe main streets, triumphantly displaying the city flag along with its winners. The prize given to the winning District is the Banner of the Madonna. For more information and detailed schedulesvisithttp://www.comune.piazzaarmerina.en.it/

Onion Festival in Giarratana (Aug. 14) Here is a great chance for you to sample the savory sweet Giarratana onion that can weigh

up to nine pounds! The 36th edition of the annual Sagra della Cipolla (Onion’s Festival) takes place on Aug. 14 in the town’s historic heart. Festivalgoers will get a chance to taste this tasty bulb they way the Sicilians do and also to have some local vino. In this beautiful town of the Ragusaprovince,onionsareusuallygrilledanddressedwithoil,saltandvinegar.Onionsarealso used to stuff the scacce (sandwiches of pizza crust folded over spinach, ricotta cheese, broccoli, tomatoes or eggplants) or just to make fresh salads. For the ones with a sweet tooth, there is also the torrone bianco (Sicilian variety of nougat with pistachios and almonds), another local specialty. An amazing fireworks show will end the festival. For more info visit, http://www.comunegiarratana.gov.it/

A “Vara” Feast of the Assumption in Randazzo (Aug.15)OnAug.15,thecommunityofRandazzowillpayhomagetoitsco-patronsaint,Maria

SS. Assunta (Our Lady of the Assumption), through a spectacular religious festival. The highlight of the celebrations is the afternoon “Vara” parade. The Vara is a majestic three tiered allegoric 65-foot tall float depicting the dogmas relating to the Blessed Virgin Mary. It carries about 30 boys and girls dressed as angels, saints and the Holy Family, which is held in the historic center. This Festa dates back to the 16th century. The parade, which starts around 3:30 p.m., leaves from the back of the Chiesa Madre (Main Church) located in piazzadellaBasilica.Formoreinformationcontactvisithttp://www.comune.randazzo.ct.it

Medieval Festival Buccheri (Aug. 16/17)If you are infatuated by the past, make sure you attend the 2014 edition of “Medfest” an

exciting medieval festival running in Buccheri’s historic center (Siracusa province) on Aug. 16 and 17. “Medfest” is an annual celebration of Sicily’s medieval varied heritage. As festival organizers point out, medieval Sicily was indeed a “melting pot” of cultures.

The festival kicks off on Aug. 16 at 6 p.m. with the 4th edition of the Medieval Drums festival featuring five groups of Sicilian drummers’ teams and medieval dinners. On Aug. 17, the festival will continue with a spectacular medieval parade followed by medieval music shows, fireworks, street artists’ performances and food booths. For more information and detailedfestivalschedulesvisithttp://www.comunedibuccheri.it

Summer Festival of St. Agata in Catania (Aug. 17)The summer edition of the St. Agata Festival is held on Saturday, Aug. 17. The summer

festival is a lowkey version of the breathtaking three-day festival, whose origin dates back to 1519, that is held in February. Even though it’s a smaller festival, the event nevertheless draws thousands of devotees and tourists of all ages who swarm the streets of the historic center to pay tribute to their beloved patroness and see the procession of its relics which starts around 8:30 p.m. The summer festival remembers the return from Turkey of the Saint’s relics that took place on the night of Aug. 17, 1126. According to an ancient, tradition, Saint Agata is considered a salvatrice (savior) because she has rescued Catania several times over the centuries, especially during earthquakes and lava eruptions. Legend has it that her holy purple-colored veil (named “limpia” in Sicilian) stopped two particularly dangerous eruptions, the first one which occurred in 251 AD, a year after her martyrdom and the second one in 1886, when the lava threatened Nicolosi. In both cases, the veil was brought in procession to the eruption site and the advancing lava flow miraculously stopped.

Peach festival in Bivona (Aug. 23/24) The annual edition of the Sagra della Pescabivona (Bivona Peach Festival) returns to the

picturesque town of Bivona in the Agrigento province on Aug. 23 and 24 in the historic center. The festival, kicking off in the evening of Aug. 23, will feature free peach tasting, arts and crafts displays and entertainment. For more information, directions and detailed visit www.comune.bivona.ag.it

U.S. Navy HEADLINES

THE SIGNATUrEPAGE 8 August 8, 2014 THE SIGNATUrE PAGE 9August 8, 2014

Free food and beverages were also given out by Sailors from NAS Sigonella security.

“I believe this event allows all of the security forces to gettogetherandbuildtiesthatwilllast,”Sgt.RyanShaak,Special Purpose MAGTF Africa 14 said.

For Dennis, NNO is one of the biggest events every year at NAS Sigonella and that the event is important not only because it creates positive comradery with our Italian hosts, but also because security of the community is one of the three branches on being a Sig Citizen.

“Security is a group effort, a neighborhood effort and a citizen effort and that’s what National Night Out represents,”

Dennis said. “It’s a reminder that it’s a community activity and that we do this together.”

NNO is a world-wide event celebrated every year that helps raise awareness about public safety and crime prevention. According to www.natw.org, the event began on Aug. 7, 1984 when the National Association of Town Watch Executive Director Matt Peskin felt that a high-profile and high impact type of crime prevention event was needed nationally. The first NNO was attended by 2.5 million Americans across 400 communities in 23 states.

“It gives the community awareness against crime and builds community relations,” Carel said.

"NNO" continued from page 1 (U.S. Navy photos by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Cameron Bramham/Released)

THE SIGNATUrEPAGE 10 August 8, 2014 THE SIGNATUrE PAGE 11August 8, 2014

As a reminder, all dependents are always welcome at the galley!Please provide any negative or positive feedback. There is a suggestion box near the entrance to the galley, next to the serving line.

Friday, August 8*Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Sausage, Bacon, Asstd. Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, French Toast.*Lunch: New England Clam Chowder, Chipper Fish, Meat Loaf, Roast Turkey, Mushroom Gravy, Mashed Potatoes, Cauliflower, Carrots, Cake.Speed line: Asstd. Pizza.*Dinner: Vegetable Supreme Soup, Barbecued Spareribs, French Fried Shrimps, Penne Alfredo, Steamed Rice, Cabbage, Cake.

Saturday, August 9*Breakfast: Farina, Grilled Ham Slices, Bacon, Creamed Sausage W/ Biscuits, Asstd. Omelets, Eggs to Order, Hash Brown Potatoes, Waffles.*Brunch: Breakfast Items, Cream of Broccoli Soup, Roast Turkey, Beef Balls Stroganoff, Chili Dogs, Hash Brown Potatoes, Green Beans, Squash, Cookies.*Dinner: Broccoli Soup, Yankee Pot Roast, Breaded Fish, Pasta Chef, Chili Dogs, Baked Potatoes, Peas, Corn, Cookies.

Sunday, August 10*Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Grilled Minute Steak, Canadian Bacon, Creamed Sausage w/ Biscuit, Asstd. Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, French Toast.*Brunch: Breakfast Items, Onion Soup, Roast Beef, Chili Dogs, Italian Roasted Potatoes, Baked Chicken, Asparagus, Corn.*Dinner: Pepper Pot Soup, Pepper Steak, Lasagna, Shrimps Scampi, Chili Dogs, Rice Pilaf, Cauliflower Polonaise, Asparagus, Cake.

Monday, August 11*Breakfast: Hominy Grits, Oven Fried Bacon, Minced Beef, Asstd. Omelets, Eggs to Order, Italian Roasted Potatoes, French Toast.*Lunch: Cream of Potato Soup, Chipper Salmon Fish, Beef Stroganoff, Manicotti Cheese, Egg Noodles, Oven Brown Potatoes, Carrots, Broccoli, Cake, Ice Cream..*Speed line: Pizza.*Dinner: Beef Noodle Soup, Spaghetti w/ Meat Balls, Chicken Florencia, Mashed Potatoes, Collard Greens, Peas & Carrots, Cake.

Tuesday, August 12*Breakfast: Farina, Creamed Sausage w/Biscuit, Baked Sausage Patties, Canadian Bacon, Asstd. Omelets, Eggs to Order, Hash Brown Potatoes, Waffles . *Speed line: Lasagna, Roast Beef Sandwich, Onion Rings.*Lunch: Asian Stir Fry Soup, Chicken Adobo, Sweet & Sour Pork, Egg Roll, Fried Shrimp, Chinese Fried Rice, Oriental Fried Cabbage, Corn Kernel, Cake, Pie, Ice Cream.*Dinner: Onion Soup, Pasta Al forno, Beef Pot Roast, Italian Sausage, Steamed Rice, Baked Hubbard Squash, Mix Vegetable, Cookies.

Wednesday, August 13*Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Creamed Beef, Bacon, Asstd. Omelets, Eggs to Order, Hash Brown Potatoes, French Toast.*Lunch: Mulligatawny Soup, Shrimp Scampi, Chicken Florencia, Lasagna, Steamed Rice, Chicken Gravy, Peas & Carrots, Cauliflower, Cake, Ice Cream.*Speed line: Grilled Cheese/Hamburger, Turkey Burger, Fried Bacon, Baked Beans, French Fried Potatoes.*Dinner: Chicken noodles soup, Roast Turkey, Beef Pot Pie w/ Biscuit Topping, Pasta Chef, Steamed Rice, Green Beans, Carrots, Cake.

Thursday, August 14*Breakfast: Hominy Grits, Corned Beef Hash, Bacon, Asstd. Omelets, Eggs to Order, Hash Brown Potatoes, French Toast.*Lunch: Cream of Broccoli Soup, Manicotti, Beef Rib Prime, Chicken Cordon Bleu, Fried Shrimp, Rice Pilaf, Baked Potatoes, Brown Gravy, Steamed Asparagus, Peas & Carrots, Cake, Ice Cream. *Dinner: Beef Noodle Soup, Steak Ranchero, Penne Alfredo, Fishwich, Steamed Rice, Seasoned Carrots, Corn, Cake.

Friday, August 15*Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Grilled Sausage Patties, Bacon, Asstd. Omelets, Eggs to Order, Hash Brown Potatoes, Waffles.*Lunch: New England Clam Chowder, Baked Salmon Fish , Salisbury Steak w/ Mushroom Sauce, Penne Alfredo, Roasted Garlic Potatoes, Steamed Asparagus, Cauliflower, Cookies Ice Cream.*Speed line: Asstd. Pizza.*Dinner: Cream Of Mushroom Soup, Cantonese Spareribs, Chicken in Orange Sauce, Spaghetti w/ Tuna, Rice Pilaf, Steamed Whole Corn, Cabbage, Cookies.

Disaster Action Team helps Sigonella get prepared

NASSIGONELLA,Sicily-Septemberisdisasterawarenessmonth,andtheAmericanRedCrossDisaster Action Team (DAT) has found ways to educate the community and get them involved in disaster-related events. The events in September will target both kids and adults, and focus on natural disasters relevant to Sigonella.

The first week of September, volunteers will host tables at the NEX 7day and the Commissary with details about the month’s events, and disaster preparedness tips. Electronics Technician 1st Class James Herring, DAT member, said, “This event is a great opportunity for the community to meet the Disaster Action Team and learn how to prepare themselves for any possible disaster they may encounter.”

The following week is a great opportunity for kids and adults to get involved together. During the weekofSeptember8,theRedCrosswillbehostingapoolpartytodemonstratetheimpactoffloods.“Sigonella is in a prime location for flooding. This event is important to teach the community how to preparethemselvesandtohavefunwhiledoingso,”saidHospitalmanMercedesRichey.

The next event will be a chili cook off on Thursday, September 18, (11 a.m. - 1 p.m.). The CO, XO, and CMC of NAS Sigonella as judges, participants will enter their chili for the chance to win a prize package valued at over $75. Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) 2nd Class Peter Obeng, the point of contact for the event, stated, “With Mt. Etna being a very active volcano nearby, this puts a fun spin on informing the people in our community more about volcanoes.”

Wrapping up the month’s events will be a fire safety demonstration in Marinai housing on Saturday, September 27, with the assistance of the base fire department. Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) 2ndClassRyanSteffeyexplained,“Wewanttoteachourcommunitymoreaboutfiresafetyandhowto prevent fires. With such a large portion of the Sigonella community residing in Marinai, it is the perfect place to educate the residents on this topic.”

Throughout the month kids will have the opportunity to fill up a “Masters of Disaster Passport” that willbeavailableateacheventandattheRedCrossoffice.Thesepassportswillgivekidsanopportunityto complete hands-on activities and obtain “passport stamps” for their accomplishments. Anyone that completes their passport will have the opportunity to win prizes including backpacks, first aid kits, and NEX gift cards!

Adults can get in on the action by tuning in to the AFN Eagle Morning Show on Thursdays at 8 a.m.fortheweeklyRedCrossinterview.Eachweektherewillbeanewtriviaquestionaskedandthefirst person to post the answer on Facebook will win a prize.

Formoreinformation,contacttheAmericanRedCrossat624-4900.

BY KATIE CONNOLLYDisaster Services Chair, American Red Cross - NAS Sigonella

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - One of the most difficult parts of being stationed at an overseas location is being so far away from family. This can be made even more challenging when a family member suffers from an illness or a serious injury, or if there is a death in the family. Coping with the news of the situation and then trying to get the necessary information to the command and make travel arrangements can be overwhelming for anyone.TheAmericanRedCrossisheretohelpinthesesituations.

Formore than 40 years theAmericanRedCross has been assistingthe Armed Forces by providing service members with Emergency Communication Messages (ECM). ECMs connect thousands of families to servicememberseveryyearduringemergencysituations.TheRedCrossworldwide emergency communication network operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. The ECM provides the service member and their command timely, reliable, verified information that can assist in helping make decisions regarding leave.

A Service member or their family can start an ECM if there is a death, illness, or serious injury involving an immediate family member (of either theServiceMemberorhis/herSpouse).TostartanECM,theRedCrossneeds the following information about the service member: legal name; branchofservice;dateofbirthorsocialsecuritynumber;rank;command/unit;completemilitaryaddress;andtelephonenumber(work/home/cell).The more information that is provided to a caseworker, the easier and quicker the process will be. “It’s important to know what a great resource theRedCrossisprovidingthroughemergencymessages.Itallowsservicemembers to be there for family when they need it most. Being so far from family is hard enough but when you go through a serious illness or the lossofaparentorsibling, itcanbedevastating;theRedCrosswantstohelp make sure you’re home when you need to be,” stated Kathryn Lasky, StationChairforRedCrossSAFSigonella.

The ECM services become even more important for service members while on deployment because of the absence of “normal” methods of communication. The Red Cross currently deploys staff members toDjibouti, Kuwait, and Afghanistan. These staff members support the service members at their locations and the forward operating bases attached to them.RedCrossSAFSigonellaStationManager,DennisMoran,returnedin July from a six month deployment to Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, “My staff and I were processing an average of almost 80 ECMs every week while I was there. The service members appreciated having us there and providing them a link to help during these emergencies.”

If you have specific questions or need to start an ECM you can contact our localofficeat624-4900orthe24/7callcenterat1-877-272-7337.Ifyour family is located outside of the US, please contact the call center to learn about verification procedures for specific countries. The American RedCrossdoesnotprovideanyfinancialassistancebutoffersreferralstomilitary aid societies that can assist. An ECM does not guarantee leave approval,theRedCrossrecommendscontactingyourcommandformoreinformation on specific emergency leave policies and procedures.

Service to the Armed Forces – Emergency Communication MessagesBY AmANDA HErrING Field Office Assistant, American Red Cross - NAS Sigonella

THEAMERICANREDCROSS ISANON-FEDERAL ENTITY. IT ISNOTA PARTOFTHE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE OR ANY OF ITS COMPONENTS AND IT HAS NOGOVERNMENTSTATUS.

THE SIGNATUrEPAGE 12 August 8, 2014 THE SIGNATUrE PAGE 13August 8, 2014

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Find and circle all of the words that are hidden in the grid.The remaining 13 letters spell an additional word.

ANGERAPPRECIATIVEARROGANTBITTERCALMCHEERFULCONFIDENTCURIOUSDISGUSTDUBIOUS

EDGYENVIOUSEXUBERANTFEARFRANTICFRETFULGLADGLEEFULGRATEFULGRIEF

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Moods & Emotions 3

"tips" continued from page 1months roadways can become very slippery, particularly during the first rains of autumn when oils and ash particles may rise to the driving surface. Drive slowly through large puddles or drive around them if safe to do so. Remember,yourcarisnotasubmarine!Don’t pass unless absolutely necessary. The few seconds you might gain toward your destination aren’t worth the risk of injury or damage to you or your vehicle. Anticipate other drivers’ actions. During any time of year you may see sheep and goats being herded on roadways. Expect the unexpected and remember to always leave plenty of room between you and the car in front. DON’T TAILGATE. Report accidentsimmediately to NASSIG Emergency Dispatch at 624-1911 on-base or 095-86-1911 off-base.

Build a Kit: The best way to prepare for the unexpected is to create one or more emergency kits that include enough supplies and water for at least three days. Keep a kit prepared at home, and consider having kits in your car, at work, and a portable version in your home ready to take with you. These kits will enable you and your family to respond to an emergency more effectively. Your various emergency kits will be useful whether you have to shelter-in-place or evacuate. Be sure your kits address the needs of small children, individuals with special needs, and your pets.

Here are some tips to help mitigate the problems that might arise in dealing with seasonal hazards unique to this area.

• First and foremost, regardlessof the season, all active duty and civil service personnel are required to register

with both the Computer Desktop Notification System (CDNS) and Navy Family Accountability and Assessment System (NFAAS). The CDNS system will immediately notify you via your work computer, cell phone and work phone (or other phone number and email address you designate) during an emergency. Don’t delay your registration. NFAAS also provides accountability for you and your family during emergencies and includes detailed address and telephone information for official use. The CDNS and NFAAS links are listed at the end of this article.

• Asyouarewellawareby now, Sicily gets hot, es-pecially in the lowland aras where NAS Sigonella is situated. HY-DRATE! Dehydration can cause diz-ziness, nausea, weakness, chills, light headedness, headaches and uncon-sciousness. If personnel are performing strenuous activities in these tempera-tures, along with improper hydration practices, heat exhaustion could be a re-sult. Exhaustion from heat can be fatal if left untreated.

• Smaller children, especially new-borns and infants, are not as adaptable to temperature change. When babies are too hot or cold, their body uses more oxygen to compensate. Make sure to limit their exposure to extreme tem-peratures, and never leave your child in your vehicle unattended!!

• In Sicily, Fall/Winter is the rainyseason and we have a history of flood-ing. Again, make sure to register in CDNS and NFAAS. When a flood or flash flood warning is issued, CDNS will notify Sigonella community members through your media devices to keep you plugged in for procedures pertaining to all hazard and emergency responses.

• Because of flooding and otherroad hazards always know at least two routes to work and where you live.

•Don'tdrivethroughlargepuddles.Drive around puddles if safe to do so, or choose another route to your destina-tion.

•Theholidayseasonisstillmonthsaway, but for those with fresh-cut

Christmas trees, make sure your tree stays green, that the needles are hard to pull from branches, and that the trunk bottom is sticky with resin. If your tree is bounced on the ground, a shower of falling needles means it is time to dis-card the tree. Above all, keep your tree away from flames!

Helpful Emergency preparation web sites:

• (NFAAS login site) https://navy-family.navy.mil/cas/login?service=https%3A%2F%2Fnavyfamily.navy.mil%2F

• Ready.navy:http://www.ready.navy.mil/ (Ready Navy is an official CNICsponsored emergency preparedness program)

• Ready.gov:http://www.ready.gov/

U.S. Navy Sailors assigned to Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit Eight (EODMU-8), prepare to load their zodiac pontoon boat onto a trailer following an initial exploration of the Marinai housing area on board Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella. Continuous heavy rainfall since Dec. 13, 2005 resulted in flooding and power outages aboard NAS Sigonella and in surrounding areas, including government housing in Maranai. Six inches to three feet of standing water was reported. U.S. Navy photo by Journalist 3rd Class Michael Lavender (RELEASED)

THE SIGNATUrEPAGE 14 August 8, 2014 THE SIGNATUrE PAGE 15August 8, 2014

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - Twice a year, U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella is attacked. Figuratively speaking, of course.

It’s all part of two-day, 15-hour course aimed at preparing the hospital to withstand a chemical or biological attack. To do so, the hospital employs a team of specially trained Sailors as part of its decontamination team, or DECON.

“The main purpose of the decontamination team is to get them certified in hazardous waste operations,” said Charlie Jansen, an instructor from DECON, LLC, a company hired through the Navy’s Bureau of Medicine and Surgery to train Sailors in the decontamination process. “Every six months, we send an instructor back to certify the students.”

The instructors’ objectives are simple. They teach Sailors how to set up and operate the equipment, and they teach them how to process and decontaminate patients. The ultimate goal in the training is saving lives and protecting the facility.

“The training provides valuable education to our Sailors in preparing for a chemical, biological, nuclear or radiological attack,” said Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Ian Harris, Senior Enlisted Advisor to the

DECON team. “It’s imperative that we become fluid in this process because our role is saving lives.”

The first day of training is conducted in a classroom where students learn about hazardous materials and many aspects of chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear warfare. In addition, students are taught how to process patients and how to inspect their personal protective equipment.

Day Two of the training consists of practical application drills. The instructors establish two goals during the drills. The first goal is to be mission capable within five minutes, meaning that four team members must be suited up and ready to go.

The second goal is to have the entire team suited up with a shelter in place and water running in 20 minutes.

The hospital’s DECON team now lists 29 members. It’s a team that learns a lot more than just the ins and outs of decontamination procedures.

“The foundation of the training is teamwork,” Harris said. “It provides our Sailors with knowledge about all aspects of the decontamination process, so in the end, each person can perform any aspect of the process and enables us to function as one unit.”

BY Hm2 mATTHEw CLUTTEr U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella

On Aug. 5, a joint team of Marines from Special Purpose Marine and Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) Africa 14, Fire Department and Commander Task Force (CTF) - 67 volunteers joined forces with Italian youth Catania Rotary clubs members (Interact and Students' association "Atlas") for the "San Giovanni Li Cuti Clean Beach operation," a Community Relations (COMREL) event launched by NAS Sigonella (NASSIG) Public Affairs Office (PAO) in partnership with the City of Catania, local Rotary Clubs and local fishermen's organizations as well as local beach enthusiasts. Volunteers collected over 30 bags of trash including paper, bottles, cans, plastic, and cigarette butts at the San Giovanni Li Cuti beach, one of the most popular beaches on the Catania waterfront."I thank the U.S. military of Sigonella for the ongoing volunteer support which helps our effort to convince residents to become more aware of the environment and keep beaches free of trash and litter," said Rosario D'Agata, City of Catania Chairman of Environment."Today I brought eight Marines to join hands with NASSIG sailors and Italian students to give back to the community. We do the same in the States and we are glad to get a chance to do it here as well and enjoy the beauty of this beach," said SP-MAGTF Africa PAO, 1st Lt. Maida Kalic."It was a day of fun and environmental awareness which we have shared with American sailors and Marines," said Riccardo Foti , the president of the Interact Club Catania Ovest. Several local TV stations and news-papers' covered the event which helped to "get the word out" on how im-portant is to keep the coastal environment clean. (U.S. Marine photo by Corporal Shawn Valosin/Released)

Sailors from U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella take part in decontamination training in February. The team of 29 members holds this training every six months to prepare for chemical or biological attacks. (U.S. Navy Photo by Hospitalman Jasper Seisa/Released)

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - When preparing ourselves and families for emergency readiness, we have a pretty good idea of what we should be doing such as having a three - four day supply of water and a designated emergency kit with simple food rations, a first aid kit and flashlights with extra batteries. I encourage you to use ideas found in this issue of the Signature and to consult other community services for more information.

It is equally important to consider the unexpected financial emergencies that can suddenly impact our well-being. One of the fastest ways to upset our financial stability is when bad things happen

unexpectedly. From time to time we might experience financial urgency by major car repairs or costly home maintenance. These examples show why having emergency savings reserves as part of your net worth is so important in preventing financial hardship.

The key to maintaining an emergency savings account is this; do not touch these funds for any reason except for a defined emergency. The other essential ingredient is a consistent behavior pattern of saving money, and there is no easier way than doing it automatically.Ready?Hereareafewideastohelpyoucantakeaction and get the ball rolling:

• AddanallotmentthroughmyPaytoanEmergencyFundsavings account. Start small but see how fast you can get to $500. Saving automatically makes it so much easier.

• Determineyourmonthlylivingexpensesbydocumenting100% of your spending for a month. Evaluate, and then set goals to reduce you spending. In turn, you will increase your cash flow and gain savings momentum.

• Savemoretoreachatargetgoalofcashreservesequaltoat least three months of your living expenses.

• Enjoy theReward–Once you reachyour target it feelsgreat having the confidence that you are prepared to cope with potential financial emergencies in the future. You can then put those monthly savings to additional goals.

Financial security is determined by our money management behavior. You have resources to guide your effort and success. For more ideas to take positive action, contact your Command Financial Specialist or make a personal appointment with me at 624-4291 or michael.matheny@eu.navy.mil.

Emergency savings 411USNH Sigonella trains for DECON Marines and Sailors clean Catania beach

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220v/110v, A/C, heating, SKY TV, Wi-Fi, water reservoir.

€ 1.200,00 per month, everything included. Cell. 377-6816-369.

BUON FERRAGOSTO!Due to the Italian holiday period in August,

"The Signature" will be on a two - week break begining August 15. Don't miss our next issue

available on August 29.Stay up to date by visiting us on the NAS

Sigonella Facebook page.

THE SIGNATUrEPAGE 16 August 8, 2014