MILLINGTON, Tenn. (NNS) – Ten years after the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, Chief Selects from Naval Support Activity Mid-South honored the victims at the NSA Mid-South conference center.

The event held on Sept. 9, was titled “America Attacked, The Voices of 9/11”.

“It was the day when the unreal became the unimaginable,” wrote Senior Chief Navy Counselor Kelly Strickland, the event coordinator. “Sept. 11, 2001, the crystalline morning when planes dropped from the skies and toppled the World Trade Center and punctured a hole in the Pentagon, was a demarcation point that shattered the security of the country and introduced a nebulous and virulent enemy previously unfamiliar to most citizens.”

The memorial service included videos and speakers including Capt. Steve Fimple, NSA Mid-South’s commanding officer and the Shelby County mayor, the Honorable Mark Luttrel. Commander, Navy Recruiting Command Commander and Deputy Commander Rear Adm. Earl Gay and Rear Adm. Robin Graf were also in attendance.

Luttrel promised the attacks will never be forgotten nor will the victims of the attacks. He also thanked all those who wear the uniform of the armed services for their service in the past, present and future.

The guest speaker was Mark Faram, the senior staff writer for the Navy Times and one of the first photographers on the scene at the Pentagon. Faram presented a video slide-show of photos he had taken immediately following the attack on the Pentagon. Faram reflected on how many of the people he encountered that day would later reconnect. He also emphasized the good that can come out of such a tragic event.

Following Faram’s speech, the Chief Selects conducted the reading of the “last flights,” a short narration of the timeline of how each flight was hijacked. Chief selects also reflected on the heroic actions of the passengers of United 93 who fought their attackers ensuring the plane did not reach its intended target.

“Nearly 3,000 people died that morning, the vast majority of them in the gnarled rubble of the lower Manhattan towers, others at the Pentagon and in a rural Pennsylvania field,” wrote Strickland. “A numbed country with red-rimmed eyes came to understand the ugly menace of terrorism. For ten years America has been healing. May 1, 2011 Osama Bin Laden was killed by U.S. Navy SEALs marking the most significant achievement to date in our nations effort to defeat Al Qaeda.”

A moment of silence was held for the fallen followed by a 21-gun-salute and “Taps” played on a sole bugle.

“Nothing will ever compensate for the pain and suffering inflicted by this mass murderer and his henchmen,” wrote Strickland. “But just as evil never rests, neither does good. May the fact that Osama bin Laden no longer inhabits the earth be a source of comfort for the thousands of families, here in America and around the globe, who mourn the victims of Al Qaeda’s barbarity.”

The ceremony, attended by more than 500 personnel from NSA Mid-South and the local community, concluded with a first responders tribute, punctuated by blasts from Millington fire and police department sirens.

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(MILLINGTON, Tenn.) Sept. 9, 2011 - Four pairs of folded flags and candles, representing the four flights that were hijacked and used in the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attack are placed on the stage of the Naval Support Activity (NSA) Mid-South conference center in Millington, Tenn. The flags were part of a ceremony honoring those who gave their lives during the attack and was presented by the NSA Mid-South chief selectees and held in coordination with the City of Millington and Shelby County.
U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (AW) Christopher D. Blachly. (RELEASED)

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(MILLINGTON, Tenn.) Sept. 9, 2011 - The Naval Suport Activity (NSA) Mid-South chief selectees sit and observe a ceremony honoring those who lost their lives during the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attack. The ceremony was presented by the selectees and held at the NSA Mid-South conference center in coordiation with the city of Millington, Tenn., and Shelby County.
U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (AW) Christopher D. Blachly. (RELEASED)

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(MILLINGTON, Tenn.) Sept. 9, 2011 - Mr. Mark Faram, senior staff writer to Navy Times and one of the first photographers on the scene of the Sept. 11, 2001 attack on the Pentagon, speaks about his memories of the day during a ceremony honoring those who lost their lives during the terrorist attacks. The ceremony was presented by the Naval Support Activity Mid-South chief selectees and held in coordination with the City of Millington, Tenn., and Shelby County.
U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (AW) Christopher D. Blachly. (RELEASED)

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(MILLINGTON, Tenn.) Sept. 9, 2011 - Capt. Steve Fimple, commanding officer of Naval Support Activity (NSA) Mid-South addresses the audience of the NSA Mid-South conference center during a ceremony honoring those who lost their lives during the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. The ceremony was presented by the NSA Mid-South chief selectees and held in coordination with the City of Millington, Tenn., and Shelby County.
U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (AW) Christopher D. Blachly. (RELEASED)

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(MILLINGTON, Tenn.) Sept. 9, 2011 - Sailors fire a salute to the men, women and children who lost their lives on Sept. 11, 2001. The rifle team was part of a ceremony held on Naval Support Activity (NSA) Mid-South in conjunction with the City of Millington, Tenn., and Shelby County.
U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (AW) Christopher D. Blachly. (RELEASED)

Navy Still Hiring, Prior Service Entry Based on Skills, Needs of Navy

By Mass Communication Specialist 2^nd Class (SCW) Michael B. Lavender

Navy Recruiting Command Public Affairs

MILLINGTON, Tenn. (NNS) – Commander, Navy Recruiting Command's monthly recruiting "Mission Day" began Aug. 31 and the Navy still needs new Sailors in hard to fill rates to meet this year's recruiting goals.

The U.S. Navy is looking for highly qualified applicants who are interested in serving, including those who have previously worn the uniform.

On average, less than one percent of annual enlisted accessions are comprised of prior service applicants. For fiscal year 2010, more than 34,000 men and women joined the Navy as active duty enlisted Sailors, of which only 131 were prior service members.

However, the Navy is still hiring, needing more than 46,000 highly qualified active and reserve, enlisted and officer applicants each year. The quality of recruits, including those who re-enter the service, is extraordinarily high, meaning only the best are accepted to serve in America’s Navy: A global force for good.

If prior service applicants desire re-entry, they must ensure their physical fitness is high enough to meet Navy standards, that their height and weight meet the current requirements, and that they have their records in order.

Additionally, prior service applicants are encouraged to consider other ratings in addition to the rating they held before leaving the Navy. The greatest needs are in the most challenging career fields such as nuclear power, Navy diver, air rescue swimmers, explosive ordnance disposal and Navy SEALs. Opportunities available are based on the needs of the Navy.

While greater retention in the military may limit the number of opportunities for those who have previously served, desirable skill sets and flexibility with rating choice improve chances for selection. Additional options are available in our Navy Reserve force.

For more information on joining (or rejoining) America’s Navy, visit Navy.com or talk with a local Navy recruiter. To find a recruiter near you, go to Navy.com and click on “Find a Recruiter.”

With 70 percent of the world covered in ocean, 80 percent of the world’s population living near coasts and 90 percent of the world’s commerce traveling by water, America’s Navy continues to be forward deployed as a global force for good. Navy Recruiting Command’s mission is to recruit the best men and women for America’s Navy to accomplish today’s missions and meet tomorrow’s challenges.

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Navy’s Top Recruiter Changes, New Commander Takes Helm

By MC2 (SCW) Michael B. Lavender Navy Recruiting Command Public Affairs

MILLINGTON, Tenn. (NNS) – Navy recruiters welcomed aboard a new commander during a ceremony August 25 at the NSA Mid-South Conference Center, when Rear Adm. Earl L. Gay relieved Rear Adm. Robin Graf as Commander, Navy Recruiting Command.

“It’s great to be aboard and I really look forward to meeting each and every one of you in the near future,” said Gay. “I would like to thank Rear Adm. Graf for a job well done as the commander of this great Navy recruiting command. I also thank her for and all those who helped with a seamless and professional turnover. I look forward to working with this great team of recruiting professionals as we together continue to find those men and women in our great country that are willing to serve beside us in the world’s greatest Navy. I’d like to let everyone know as we look toward the end of this fiscal year and into the next I’d like us to continue to push hard and remind all of America that yes, we’re still hiring. The economy may be tough but America’s Navy has tremendous opportunities available to all that are out there.”

Gay's assignments at sea included deployments aboard USS Fletcher (DD 992), USS Cook (FF 1083), USS David R. Ray (DD 971) and USS Crommelin (FFG 43). He commanded the HSL-43 BattleCats, deploying the Navy's first Armed Helo/Hellfire missile detachments. He also served as air boss, USS Boxer (LHD 4), deploying with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) in 1999.
Assignments ashore include search and rescue pilot in the High Sierra Mountains at NAS Fallon, Nev., instructor pilot in the SH-60B aircraft at HSL-41, Joint Plans officer at U.S. Forces Command and U.S. Atlantic Command and commanding officer of HSL-41, training squadron for all west coast SH-60B pilots and aircrewmen.
Gay commanded USS Belleau Wood (LHA 3) from March 2003 until November 2004, deploying with the 11th MEU in combat support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. Following this tour, Gay was assigned as the Navy's director of Congressional liaison, U.S. House of Representatives.

Gay’s most-recent assignment was Commander, Expeditionary Strike Group 3, in San Diego, Calif, where he has served since July 2009. Gay previously served as deputy chairman of the Armed Forces Inauguration Committee, Washington, D.C. from July 2008 until March 2009.

For her service as Commander, Navy Recruiting Command, Graf was awarded the Legion of Merit for leadership of more than 7,000 recruiting professionals. Under her leadership as commander and deputy commander, Navy recruiters accessed 53,081 enlisted and 5,728 officer personnel and achieved 100 percent of Fiscal Year 2010 active and reserve enlisted and active officer recruiting missions.

“It has been my highest honor to serve as Commander, Navy Recruiting Command with such an extraordinary team in the most important and, in many ways, the toughest and most unique mission in the Navy,” said Graf. “As the spearhead in delivering sailors to the most powerful Navy the world has ever seen, you serve as our forward presence to the Nation, charged with the sacred responsibility of recruiting the highest quality Sailors with the right skills. Your commitment to excellence in accessing these high caliber individuals ensures we maintain operational primacy throughout the world. Since the founding of our Navy, people remain our most prized asset. Thank you for your dedication and passion in executing the recruiting mission for America's Navy.”

Graf will resume her previous duty as Deputy Commander, Navy Recruiting Command.

“There is no greater honor and privilege than being a member of this winning team,” said Graf. “You are in superb hands with Rear Adm. Gay in the seat. A committed and passionate leader, he will continue to drive the modernization of our Recruiting Enterprise and provide the vision to take recruiting to even higher levels. Thank you again for your dedication and commitment to our Navy's most important mission - recruiting.”

NRC consists of a command headquarters, two Navy Recruiting Regions and 26 Navy Recruiting Districts which serve nearly 1,500 recruiting stations across the country.

With 70 percent of the world covered in ocean, 80 percent of the world’s population living near coasts and 90 percent of the world’s commerce traveling by water, America’s Navy is very much a global force for good. NRC’s mission is to recruit the best men and women for America’s Navy to accomplish today’s missions and meet tomorrow’s challenges.

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MRI (Mobile Recruiting Initiative)

110812-N-AA697-032 San Diego, Calif. (August 11, 2011) - Navy Counselor 1st Class Jesse Garcia, a Navy Recruiter in San Diego, uses the new Mobile Recruiting Initiative deployment kit to help place Michelle Patricola, an 18-year-old applicant into the Navy. The Mobile Recruiting Initiative, part of Navy Recruiting Command's Recruiting Force (RF) 2020 plan, is a valuable tool that connects a recruiter anywhere without the confines of a recruiting station. The MRI deployment kit includes CAC-enabled laptop or tablet PC, a photo printer with battery attachment, a portable scanner, a portable speaker and a rolling laptop case. Current plans include deploying MRI kits for all Navy recruiting stations by April 2012. U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Bradley Sapp (RELEASED)

Navy Surgeon General Explains Military Medicine to Med Students

Story by Chief Mass Communication Specialist (AW) Paul DeLaughter NRD New England Public Affairs Officer

WORCESTER, Ma. – Navy Surgeon General Vice Adm. Adam Robinson gave a lecture to medical students, hospital faculty and medical recruiters from NRD New England June 23 at the University of Massachusetts Medical School.

The speaking engagement was designed to help health care professionals understand the importance the Navy places on its medical community and to highlight the work Navy medical teams do around the globe. Robinson also took some time to offer advice to the medical students in the crowd.

“As [medical professionals] we’re called upon to do a dramatic and increasingly difficult amount of work,” said Robinson. “[This work] revolves around the lives of individuals, human beings … that we have an absolute spiritual, moral and ethical responsibility to care for in the best way possible and in the highest traditions of the profession of medicine.”

He said ‘service’ is the mindset all health care providers need to be in; not military service specifically but service of some kind. He referenced service in hospitals, in the community or wherever a person may be so they may give to other people.

“You need to base service as the preeminent part of your life,” he said. “I think service is the manifestation of love for your fellow human beings.”

Robinson told the crowd of his path to military service. Coming from a medical background, he never thought he would end up practicing medicine in the military. However, he noted, he needed some way to pay for his tuition.

“You don’t know what you don’t know,” he said. “There are lots of opportunities in the world that we should avail ourselves of or at least be able to make an informed decision if we don’t avail ourselves of those opportunities.”

The lecture then turned to discussion of the Navy’s humanitarian efforts around the world. He spoke of the Haitian disaster and the Navy’s recurring missions to Central and South Americas and the Caribbean with Operation Continuing Promise.

He said the Navy is proficient when dealing with kinetic events; however, the non-kinetic events or, “soft events” as he described them, still have room for improvement.

“The kinetic events are what win the war but we need to know how to then win the peace,” he said.

Humanitarian efforts are important to national defense, he said, because by building relationships we are also building security.

“The return on investment is measured in the security we develop and the relationships we develop,” he said. “The cost of goodwill can be immeasurably important as an asset in our ability to understand others and to have them understand us.”

Robinson expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to appear before the group and speak of his experiences in the Navy.

“It is important that I talk to anyone in the country about what we in Navy medicine and what we in the Navy do,’ he said. “The only way we can run our Navy and Navy medicine is to have a volunteer force that comes from the men and women from the heart of America. It’s my absolute honor and pleasure to come and show this uniform … and for [the people here] to understand what opportunities are available to them in our great Navy so that they may serve our nation as well.”

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America’s Navy, a Local Force for Good

Story by Mass Communication Specialist Third Class Ty C. Connors

MILLINGTON, Tenn. – In the wake of a year of turmoil and unprecedented weather events which have buffeted the continental U.S., America’s Navy – A global force for good, has also proven itself to be a local force for good.

From tornadoes in Joplin, Mo., and Tuscaloosa, Ala., to flooding along the Mississippi watershed, Sailor’s and recruiters from around the country have continued to answer their nation’s call.

"Recruiters are the face of the Navy in our local communities,” said CDR David James, executive officer of Navy Recruiting District (NRD) Nashville. “Our Navy's ethos of a global force for good was most recently manifested by the selfless assistance our shipmates provided during the horrendously destructive storms the Mid-South faced this spring of 2011. A few of our shipmates had their homes and belongings completely destroyed yet still rendered help to those in need. Forms of aid varied from donations of goods to on-site assistance and cleanup. Bravo Zulu to all that rallied to assist our local communities under desperate conditions. You proudly represented the Navy, a global force for good."

Recruiters from Murfreesboro, Tenn., and Huntsville, Ala., coordinated to deliver seven trailer loads of supplies to tornado-effected citizens in Toney, Ala.

“I would give you the shirt off my back if I knew it would help you,” said EM2 Steven Daugherty, a recruiter from Navy Recruiting Station (NRS) Murfreesboro. “I was raised in the country; it is how we are.”

Daugherty estimates that he and FC1 Tristan Whitson from NRS Huntsville collected about $25,000 worth of items including clothes, dishes, baby bottles, and toys through word of mouth and social media Web sites.

“It is unreal the amount of support that is out there if you reach out,” said Daugherty. “I was blown away by the amount of people willing to come out and help.”

The students of Naval Recruiting Orientation Unit (NORU) Enlisted Recruiter Orientation (ENRO) class 11-340 out of Pensacola, Fla., donated $700 to purchase water and non-perishable food for distribution to the Tuscaloosa tornado victims. They rented a trailer and stocked it with a half pallet of water and various food items which equated to 1,400 pounds of food. They also engaged in assisting the stricken community after they received permission to do so from local relief personnel and hand delivered items like baby diapers, various toiletries and non-perishable food as well as pizza.

NORU ENRO class 11-390 dedicated 48 off-duty hours of humanitarian aid to the tornado victims of Pleasant Grove, Ala. Pleasant Grove was hit hard by the tornado which displaced thousands of its residents. Through their personal donations, the students of 11-390 raised $1,230.

Recruiters from St. Louis, Mo., traveled to Livingston County, Ky., just outside of Paducah, where they assisted with flood aid by filling, tying, transporting and placing sandbags, and evacuating people and property from flood-threatened areas.

“One guy was trying to save his house and everything he owns by himself against a flood,” said MM1 Joseph Renn, NRD St. Louis nuclear programs recruiting coordinator. He just couldn't do it. I hope that someone would help me if I was in the same predicament.”

“You have to help out in your community,” said QM2 Christopher Swann, a recruiter out of Paducah. “It's just what you do. I felt bad that my house was in a better place than most when so many others were losing their houses so I did all I could to help out as many people as I could.”

“We can't do it alone,” Renn said. “It's just like on the sub[marine]. We are a family. We all play our individual roles, but when a casualty happens, if we don't work together we all die.”

Navy recruiters do not simply help young men and women find careers in service of their country. Recruiters are also part of their communities nationwide. Whether it is volunteering in the community, supporting scouting, mentoring students or responding to disasters, they are a local force for good.

Navy Recruiting Command consists of a command headquarters, two Navy Recruiting Regions and 26 Navy Recruiting Districts which serve hundreds of recruiting stations across the country.

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CDR Breckenridge Morgan Assumes Command of NRD Atlanta

Story and photos by MC1 Roderick C. Jessie, NRD Atlanta Public Affairs Officer

ATLANTA – A better weather forecast could not have been asked for as bright blue skies and a radiant sun shined down on the Georgia State Capital at the NRD Atlanta change of command ceremony.

CDR Breckenridge S. Morgan assumed command of NRD Atlanta on May 26, 2011. In attendance was Georgia's Gov. Nathan Deal who commenced the ceremony with a presentation of a proclamation to Morgan as he assumed command.

“I’ve traveled around the country and I can tell you, that there’s no one that takes more pride in our United States military than do Georgians. I share that pride and that admiration, and as long as I’m Governor, I’ll make sure that Georgia continues to have that same attitude, as we recognize those in uniform and their dedication and their ability,” said Deal.

As part of the military ceremony, Coke Morgan, Morgan’s twin brother, sang the National Anthem to a crowd of about 300.

Morgan is a Knoxville native and has ties to Knoxville, Seymour and Sevier County. In 1987, he graduated from West High School on Sutherland Avenue.

As a lieutenant commander, he served as the commanding officer of the Knoxville Military Entrance Processing Station and remains involved in the East Tennessee Military Affairs Council.

Morgan’s parents, Peyton and Rosalie Morgan, still reside in Knoxville. The senior Morgan is an 88-year-old World War II veteran who served in Patton's Third Army as the commanding officer of a radar maintenance unit.

Morgan's nephew, Robert Given is a Navy lieutenant assigned to the Pentagon, but was unable to personally attend as he and his wife are expecting their first child very soon.

Morgan maintains a home in Seymour on the Sevier county side where he will one day retire. He recently hit a career milestone of 20 years of active duty service in the Navy..

“It was one of the highlights of my career to assume command for a second time and to have the Governor of Georgia, Gov. Nathan Deal, as our guest speaker," said Morgan.

Morgan is married to the former Tanya Henson who attended Doyle High School in Knox County.

Morgan is the twenty-second Commanding Officer of NRD Atlanta.

Gov. Nathan Deal, right, presents a proclamation to Navy Recruiting District Atlanta's new Commanding Officer, CDR Breckenridge Morgan, during the change of command ceremony held May 26, 2011 at the Georgia State Capital.

Left to right, LT Davis, CMDCM Massey, CDR Breckenridge S. Morgan, CDR William A. Garren and CAPT Tim P. Pangonas render salute to the National Anthem at NRD Atlanta's change of command at the Georgia State Capital.

RADM Graf visits NRD New Orleans,

Opens New Headquarters Building

By Mass Communication Specialist 1^st Class (SW/AW) Robert Keilman

BELLE CHASSE, La. – The Commander of Navy Recruiting Command, Rear Adm. Robin Graf, visited Navy recruiters and DoD civilian employees at the Navy Recruiting District New Orleans (NRD NOLA) headquarters onboard Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base (NAS JRB) New Orleans in Belle Chasse, La. May 24.

During the visit, Graf recognized Sailors and DoD civilian employees for their accomplishments toward Navy recruiting; conducted a promotion ceremony, and presided over a ribbon and cake cutting ceremony for the new NRD NOLA headquarters building, located at 400 Russell Avenue, Building 192. Previously located in New Orleans’ Bywater District at 4400 Dauphine St., the district headquarters moved to the West Bank area of Belle Chasse, La. as a result of the 2005 Base Realignment and Closure process.

“It’s a pleasure for me to be here today onboard NAS JRB New Orleans to commemorate the opening of the New NRD New Orleans headquarters building. This is one of the nicest Navy recruiting district buildings I have seen. This new location will be beneficial to all those working here because they are closely aligned with MEPS (Military Entrance Processing Station); have access to the commissary and the Navy Exchange; are close to a gymnasium; and have miles of roadway to PT (Physically Train) on,” said Graf.

In addition to the ribbon cutting ceremony, Graf invited all attending DoD civilian employees and Navy recruiters inside the new NRD New Orleans headquarters building conference room for a cake cutting and refreshments.

Prior to the ribbon and cake cutting ceremony, Graf promoted an officer to lieutenant junior grade and recognized the NRD New Orleans contractors of the quarter for first and second quarters of fiscal year 2011 (FY-11); the junior sailor and senior sailor of the second quarter of calendar year 2011; and other awards of individual efforts toward the recruiting mission.

“It was a great experience having the admiral promote me to lieutenant junior grade,” said Lt. j.g. Kevaughn Sandy, division two officer at NRD New Orleans. “When I found out that I had the choice of having the admiral place my new shoulder boards on, I seized this unique opportunity. Not many of my counterparts can have somebody of that stature do this honor for them, and I am grateful.”

“I was shocked when the admiral (Rear Adm. Graf) presented me with my award,” said Paula Turner,” the civilian of the quarter for the second quarter of FY 11 at NRD New Orleans. “I was surprised when the admiral shook my hand, because during the hand shake, she also gave me a command coin. It was a beautiful coin; it had had the ‘mission first, integrity always’ quote on the front, and the ‘America’s Navy a Global Force for Good’ slogan on the back.”

“It was an honor for me to have the admiral present me with an award,” said Operations Specialist 2^nd Class Dwayne Johnson from Navy Recruiting Station City Park, La., who received a ‘top dog’ award for achieving more than a 200 percent recruiting goal for April. “I know that the admiral is extremely busy, and cannot always attend every award ceremony here at NRD New Orleans. So, having this opportunity was both an honor and a pleasure.”

After the award ceremony concluded, Graf spoke to NRD New Orleans recruiters about general military topics such as suicide prevention, sexual harassment, and the Navy’s Enlisted Retention Board – a policy aimed at reducing personnel in career fields that are projected to be more than 103 percent manned by fiscal year 2012 . She also spoke about topics related to upcoming recruiting tools that will help streamline recruiting efforts such as the use of mobile laptops, which have the flexibility of gaining internet access at various locations. This eliminates the burden on recruiters who need to travel back and forth from their Navy recruiting stations to their destinations so they could conduct Navy applicant processing.

Graf concluded her visit by breaking out into group sessions with senior enlisted and officer leadership to address concerns and answer questions.

110524-N-MD165-029 BELLE CHASSE, La. (May 24, 2011) Rear Adm. Robin Graf, commander Navy recruiting command, Millington, Tenn. opens the new Navy Recruiting District New Orleans (NRD) headquarters along with Cmdr. David Weller, commanding officer of NRD New Orleans (left), and Capt. Tom Luscher, commanding officer of Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base New Orleans, during a ribbon cutting ceremony onboard NAS JRB New Orleans May 24. NRD New Orleans moved its location to NAS JRB New Orleans, Building 192, from the Bywater district of New Orleans on Dauphine St. in accordance with the 2005 Base Realignment and Closure process. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Robert Keilman (released).

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NSW/NSO Procedures Change

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Ty C. Connors Navy Recruiting Command Public Affairs

MILLINGTON, Tenn. – NRC is charged with the task of recruiting the U.S. Navy’s finest Special Warfare/Special Operations (NSW/NSO) candidates who possess the determination, initiative, physical ability and necessary requisite skills to complete the rigorous and lengthy training pipelines associated with each of the five NSW/NSO ratings.

“The war isn’t getting any easier, neither is our training,” said SOCM Matthew May, SEAL liaison for NSW/NSO recruiting. “The minimum never suffices. We need our future Sailors to be stronger, faster and smarter than our enemies.”

The success of the NSW/NSO recruiting program relies on the informal motto that NSW/NSO recruiting has used since its inception: Put the right people into the right job.

Over the last two years NRC has gathered information on the successes and failures of Sailors that choose to join the five ratings. Data has revealed that false information has been spread to future Sailors prior to shipping to Recruit Training Command (RTC) and that misinformation needs to be corrected.

There are no reclassification opportunities in RTC.

Once a Sailor from the fleet ships with a NSW/NSO job, they are locked in and will not be reclassified at RTC.

Warrior challenge (NSW/NSO) rates are currently closed at this time for all year tier groups.

If a candidate drops from a NSW/NSO program, they cannot re-class in boot camp.

If a Sailor is dropped from the NSW/NSO program, they will be placed where needed. The same rule applies once a fleet Sailor enters RTC.

Warrior challenge rates are currently closed to Navy veterans or other service veterans except for former special forces or special operations service members.

“It is imperative to ensure that a future Sailor is shipping with the contract appropriate for them upon entry and there is no misleading information given to them that they believe they can switch upon entry into RTC,” said EODCM(EWS) William D. Nesbitt, NRC NSW/NSO leading chief petty officer. “We want and care about the success of our future NSW/NSO Sailors.”

Additionally, NRC wants to ensure a clear understanding of the recent changes in ‘the rack and stack,’ the competitive selection process for warrior challenge contracts.

“We have added the Special Operator rating [SEALs] to the rack and stack and have reduced the overall new contract objective for East and West Regions,” said Nesbitt. “What does that mean? Simply put, it now places all five rates in a selection process to ensure the best candidates are awarded our few contracts available for each rating. NSW/NSO recruiting has been very successful and the success is a direct reflection of the hard efforts of all recruiters in the field. Continue to ensure all NSW/NSO candidates are channeled through the mentors and coordinators in your district.”

“Emphasis is placed on quality, not quantity,” said May.

There are also changes in the process of converting from in-fleet ratings to Special Warfare ratings. As part of the conversion process for Sailors who wish to become a SEAL or SWCC, career counselors must fill out a physical standards test request and a Navy counselor (NC) worksheet, and submit them to NSW/NSO recruiting for processing.

In the past, these forms were found exclusively on www.seal.navy.mil or www.swcc.navy.mil. NRC NSO/NSW recruiting is in the process of shutting down these two sites (along with www.sealchallenge.navy.mil) and redirecting them to www.sealswcc.com , which is the official Special Warfare recruiting Web site.

The worksheet and physical screening test request have been duplicated for in-fleet candidates on www.sealswcc.com.

Upgrades to ensure privacy protection and ease of use have been made to the site www.sealswcc.com and it is a great place to get complete, official information about the training process, community history, and supporting imagery including instructional videos. NCs can get smart on the Special Warfare community and candidates can talk with each other and official moderators to get straight answers to their questions. Even though this is a dot-com site, it is recognized by the Navy as an official U.S. Government site. It’s operated as a component of the Naval Special Warfare Command and is staffed by SEALs, SWCC, NCs, other enlisted, officers, and GS civilians.

For more information Sailors can go to www.facebook.com and search for “U.S. Navy EOD,” “US Navy Diver” or “Navy Air Rescue.”

110405-N-KK330-156

SAN DIEGO (April 5, 2011) A Basic Crewman Training (BCT) candidate takes a breath during a conditioning swim in San Diego Bay. BCT is the first phase of special warfare combatant-craft crewman (SWCC) training. SWCCs operate and maintain the Navy's inventory of state-of-the-art high performance boats used to support special operations missions worldwide. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Dominique M. Lasco/Released)

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Navy Recruiting, Diversity and the “Big Six”

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Ty C. Connors Navy Recruiting Command Public Affairs

MILLINGTON, Tenn. (RM) – In a hotel conference room in Olive Branch, Miss. recently, a Navy officer addressed a room full of motivated, highly qualified, technically-trained students and prospective recruits.

The officer is Lt. Cmdr. Mark Venzor, a speaker at the Society of Mexican America Engineers and Scientists, (MAES) 22^nd annual National Leadership Conference. MAES is an organization whose mission is to “to promote, cultivate, and honor excellence in education and leadership among Latino engineers and scientists.”

MAES is one of many minority student support organizations with which the United States Navy maintains a close and mutually-supportive relationship. In Navy circles MAES, the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE), the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), the Society of Women Engineers (SWE), the Asian Pacific American Medical Student Association (APAMSA) and the American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES), are sometimes referred to collectively as “the Big Six.”

“The goals of the diversity groups are to support students that come from diverse backgrounds from around the country at some of the nation’s best academic institutions,” said Lt. Scott Douglass, Nuclear and Civil Engineering Programs Coordinator for Navy Recruiting District, San Francisco. “The Navy is supporting those groups because it wants a cross-section, a good representation of society’s make-up. Servicemembers in the Navy need to reflect our own society.”

Navy Recruiting Command (NRC) and “the Big Six” enjoy a productive collaboration at the upper levels, but recruiters at the local level can greatly benefit, professionally and personally, from a closer relationship with diversity support organizations.

‘It takes a genuine recruiter to maintain the relationships and build the trust necessary to recruit quality future officers,” said Steven C. Martin, Chief, Navy Career Counselor and NRC Diversity Programs Manager. “Lt. Douglass and Chief Warrant Officer Williams are perfect examples of a recruiter taking advantage of an opportunity and seizing the moment of establishing and networking a future relationship. Now they are reaping the benefits.”

According to Douglass a large part of the district’s success comes from building and maintaining personal relationships with the local chapters.

“I would implore you to walk onto campus and introduce yourself to the faculty advisor of the group or the student chapter president and take them out to coffee and talk about how you might be able to support them in their efforts throughout the year to have a successful chapter,” Douglass said. “Personal relationships are key.”

Douglass acknowledges a considerable degree of success in technical field recruiting at his station, but reminds us of the personal rewards of getting involved.

“It is not just about supporting these diversity groups so I can make my recruiting mission,” Douglass said. “It is more about the mentorship and the professional guidance and assistance that I can provide these students that becomes a mission in itself.”

“We create Navy awareness and a positive feeling amongst the diversity groups that we are a part of because we are not just there to recruit them, we are there because we care about them. We are there invested on campus, invested in their group with time and energy, and helping to develop those future leaders.”

“Come graduation day, I am going to be proud of that student for graduating from college, and taking a little part of that student’s success,” Douglass said. “It makes my job more fun.”

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At an NEX near you;

America’s Navy, A Global Force For Good

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Ty C. Connors Navy Recruiting Command Public Affairs

MILLINGTON, Tenn. (NNS) – America’s Navy, A Global Force for Good, has come to the Navy Exchange (NEX).

In early May, the Navy Exchange Service Command, (NEXCOM) based in Virginia Beach, Va., unveiled a new line of Navy brand products that will carry the Navy brand into the home and workplace. Millington, Tenn., was the pilot location.

Navy Exchanges worldwide carry unique products that are localized to the area they serve, in addition to the multitude of other products and uniform items that all stores carry.

Now NEX shoppers will be able to bring home the Navy’s brand: America’s Navy, A Global Force for Good. Select NEX locations will carry the product in the store and a full line of the Navy brand products will be available on line at mynavyexchange.com for all authorized patrons.

"We are proud to work with Navy Recruiting Command (NRC) to develop a product assortment highlighting "America's Navy, A Global Force for Good" and look forward for opportunities to develop even more categories of product to offer our Sailors and their families," said Lisa Matthews, Navy Pride Buyer, NEXCOM.

“Being ‘A Global Force For Good’ means doing whatever it takes, wherever it takes us,” said Lt. Cmdr. Garth Gimmestad, Navy Recruiting Command Advertising and Marketing Operations Officer. “From sea control and maritime security to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, the Navy’s efforts are felt all around the world. It is truly ‘A Global Force For Good.’ It is important that America feel a sense of ownership in the Navy. It is ‘our’ Navy and we should feel pride in this institution. This product line will help support that feeling.”

The new Navy brand product line includes ball caps, t-shirts, two kinds of fleece pullovers, coffee and travel mugs, and water bottles. Products will range from $9.99 to $46.99.

“The Navy brand will project a centralized message of America’s Navy as A Global Force For Good,” said Gimmestad.

For more information or to purchase Navy brand products, Sailors and their families may visit www.mynavyexchange.com and click on the Navy Pride link, or visit their local NEX.

U.S. Navy photo Christopher Desmond.

Petty Officer Matthew Nolen, Navy Personnel Command, looks over the new branding products for sale featuring the slogan "America¹s Navy A Global Force For Good." The NSA Mid South Exchange was the first to debut the new branding products. Clothing and merchandise will be available at Navy Exchange outlets in the near future.

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Change of Command Music City Style

Story and photos by MC2(AW) Chelsea Kennedy, NRD Nashville Public Affairs

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – NRD Nashville held a change of command ceremony at the War Memorial Auditorium in downtown Nashville on March 11, 2011, in which CDR Jason T. Strength relieved CDR Michael D. Neuser as commanding officer.

Approximately 300 guests attended including Crystal Hoyt, a local country music artist formerly with the group Trailer Choir, who performed the national anthem.

“I have worked with the Navy twice on two tours to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and it was such a fantastic experience. I was more than pleased to participate in another event for the U.S. Navy,” said Hoyt. “It is always an honor to perform the Star Spangled Banner. I was so moved by the experience that the following day, I made it a point to post on all my public social sites a reminder of the thankfulness and respect that we should all show our servicemen and women everyday for defending our right to live in this great country.”

CAPT Tim P. Pangonas, commodore, Navy Recruiting Region East, was the guest speaker. He applauded the efforts of NRD Nashville as a powerhouse of Region East recruiting. Pangonas applauded the effort that recruiters put into recruiting our nation’s brightest future Sailors.

“If we didn’t get up in the morning and do our job, then there would be no future United States Navy,” said Pangonas. “Without the dedicated and motivated Sailors to man the rails, there is no Navy and this is the ‘so what’ of what we do.”

Neuser reported to NRD Nashville in April 2008 as executive officer and assumed command in August 2009, leading over 260 sailors, civilians, and contractors across eight states. Under his leadership, approximately 5,000 officer and enlisted Sailors have joined the U.S. Navy.

Neuser retired after 20 years of distinguished naval service. During his career he flew over 2,600 flight hours in 35 different aircraft, was selected by the Navy as a candidate for the NASA program and was deployed in support of numerous operations including Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. Neuser and his family will reside in the Nashville area.

“Today is a bitter sweet day because of my love of being a part of something bigger than myself,” said Neuser. Addressing Strength, he said, “You have arrived. I know you are ready and wish you and your family the best.”

Following the ceremony, the Sailors gathered for group photos and awards presentation on the steps of the War Memorial where they were greeted by Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam.

Haslam thanked the Sailors for their service saying that although the meeting wasn’t planned, he was very grateful for the opportunity to address some of our nation’s finest in person.

U.S. Navy photos by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Chelsea Kennedy

Country music artist Crystal Hoyt talks with CDR Michael D. Neuser at the reception following NRD Nashville’s change of command in which Neuser was relieved and retired after 20 years of Navy service. Hoyt sang the national anthem during the ceremony.

Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam addressed Sailors at the War Memorial Plaza following NRD Nashville's change of command. Haslam thanked Sailors for their service to our country.

CDR Michael D. Neuser salutes LCDR John Briggs during a flag passing ceremony representing the culmination of 20 years of distinguished naval service.

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NRD Houston Sailors Should Prepare for Hurricane Season

By MC1 Kimberly R. Stephens, NRD Houston Public Affairs

HOUSTON – On Sept. 13, 2008, at 2:10 a.m., Hurricane Ike made landfall in Galveston, Texas. Ike was only classified as a category two hurricane but she had wind gusts of 110 MPH.

According to tropicalweather.net, “very few gusts of 100 MPH have been recorded on land.” Rainfalls of 10 inches were reported in Houston. Power was lost to approximately four-and-a-half million people at the height of the storm. Ike’s tropical storm force wind field extended exceeded that of Katrina.

Ike was the third most expensive disaster in Federal Emergency Management Association (FEMA) history, behind Katrina and Andrew, and resulted in the largest evacuation of Texans in the state's history.

More than 200 Navy Recruiting District Sailors and their families had to evacuate before the storm. With cell phone towers damaged and electricity not working, it was difficult to keep track of everyone. If at all possible, Sailors should provide a regular phone line or LAN line to the command.

“Recall information must be up to date,” said DC1 Daniel Darling, NRD Houston Hurricane Recall Coordinator. “The command needs to know where Sailors are and be able to get in touch with them.”

Another way Sailors can communicate with the command is through Facebook. “If you don’t have a Facebook account, please create one for professional reasons,” said NRD Houston Executive Officer, Cmdr. Steven Friloux. “We will update everyone in the command on hurricane updates and information through our Facebook account. You can also let us know where you are and how you are doing through this venue. This process was highly successful for Naval Support Activity Mid-South when they experienced the base flood last month.”

Communication is very important during an evacuation. Sailors should let the command know by any means possible through cell phone, LAN line, texts, e-mail and Facebook that they are o.k. or if they need help.

Hurricane season began June 1 and lasts through November 30. The hurricane forecasts have increased from 15 named storms to 18 named storms during the last two months according to a study by Philip J. Klotzbach and William Gray, professors of Atmospheric Science at Colorado State University (CSU). Gray has been noted for his predictions of the Atlantic hurricane season activity. The number of hurricane predictions has increased from eight to 10 hurricanes with five of the 10 being major storms.

“We foresee a very active hurricane season in 2010. We have increased our forecast from early April due to a combination of a transition from El Niño to currently-observed neutral conditions and the continuation of unusually warm tropical Atlantic sea surface temperatures. We anticipate a well above-average probability of United States and Caribbean major hurricane landfall. All factors are lining up for a very active 2010 hurricane season,” according to the CSU study.

Who really knows what the hurricane season will be like this year? However, Sailors and their families must be prepared for the worst. Preparation begins with having a plan and letting the command know what the plan is before an evacuation occurs.

Baton Passed at NRD Phoenix

Story and photo by MC1(AW) Adrian Melendez, NRD Phoenix Public Affairs

GLENDALE, Ariz. – Guests, NRD Phoenix Sailors and personnel turned out March 16 at the Glendale Civic Center to bid farewell to Cmdr. Brent Phillips and welcome Cmdr. Darryl Toppin as the district’s new commanding officer during a change of command ceremony.

Commander, Navy Recruiting Region West, Capt. Yolonda Reagans, was the guest speaker at the ceremony, and spoke on the numerous accomplishments the district has achieved while Phillips was at the helm.

“Under your leadership the men and women of NRD Phoenix have taken this command to new heights and levels of achievement,” said Reagans. “You leave NRD Phoenix in outstanding shape. Words cannot express how thankful I am for your leadership.”

Although Phillips was leaving for his new duties at Navy Recruiting Command in Millington, Tenn., he commented that the memories and lessons he learned while at NRD Phoenix will be carried with him throughout the rest of his Navy career.

“Each of you has had an impact on my life and I am grateful to have had the opportunity to serve with you,” said Phillips. “NRD Phoenix, it has been my honor to watch you learn and grow, and in turn you let me learn and grow. You will always be in my thoughts and prayers. And I look forward to following your future successes.”

NRD Phoenix Commanding Officer Cmdr. Brent Phillips speaks to guests and staff during a change of command ceremony at the Glendale Civic Center March 16. Others taking part in the ceremony were (from left) prospective Commanding Officer Cmdr. Darryl Topping; CMDCM(SS) Jerry Pittman, NRD Phoenix master chief; and Rev. David Haught. Phillips is currently on the staff at Navy Recruiting Command.

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Recruiter Reenlists During Future Sailor Meeting

Story and photo by MC1(SW/AW) Keith Bryska, NRD Ohio Public Affairs

PIKEVILLE, Ky. – MM1(SW) Stephen Lovell took the oath of reenlistment at NRS Pikeville in front of his peers and future Sailors that he not only had the opportunity to help enlist but gave a head start in their Navy careers.

“It was a special reenlistment for me,” said Lovell who has served for 17 years. “I have reenlisted in front of my fellow Sailors before, but this is the first time I have done it in front of future Sailors that I put in the Navy.”

Future Sailors on hand for the event said they enjoyed the chance to watch their first reenlistment. “It was enjoyable to get to see someone that recruited me into the Navy actually take the next step in his career,” said Roger Slone.

Lovell said he has had a great time during his recruiting duty. “I really enjoy sharing my experience with all the future Sailors I have helped join,” said Lovell. “Not only have I had the opportunity to help people better themselves in life, but also shared the opportunity to go out and help the local community. [It’s] has been great.”

The future Sailors were also on hand to complete their required training for the month. They covered various topics such as sexual harassment, ethics and Navy terminology.

“I am glad that they are able to take the time out and teach us,” said Slone. “It helps me start early and prepare myself for the transition into the Navy.” Slone says he joined the Navy to not only have a job, but make a career out of it and to travel.

The Recruiter in Charge of NRS Pikeville, CTR1 Lesley Conn, said these training sessions are very important to help future Sailors learn the basic concepts of the Navy before they arrive at Recruit Training Command in Great Lakes.

“It is not only important that they learn about the Navy traditions, but we also teach them to go out with us and volunteer in the community doing various events such as helping rehab a house or helping with local youth leagues in the area,” said Conn. “You can teach all you can about the Navy, but these young men and women already have a devotion to helping out their neighbors and friends.”

Lt. Sean MaGee (right), enlisted programs officer at NRD Ohio, administers the oath of reenlistment to MM1(SW) Stephen Lovell at NRS Pikeville, Ky., in front of his peers and future Sailors that he played a part in getting started in their Navy careers.

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CNRC Inspires Recruiters in Los Angeles

By MCC(AW/SW) Anthony Briggs, Jr., NRD Los Angeles Public Affairs

LOS ANGELES – Commander, Navy Recruiting Command (NRC) visited Navy units and civilian staff members in the Los Angeles metro area March 11-12.

Rear Adm. Craig S. Faller made his first trip to Los Angeles since assuming command of NRC in October 2009.

Joined by his wife Martha and Force Master Chief Christopher L. Penton, Faller met with members of Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps Unit Los Angeles Consortium, Navy Recruiting District Los Angeles, and civilian supporters of Navy recruiting.

Faller, who began his career as a nuclear power officer, spoke to the future officers about the importance of integrity. “Integrity directly impacts trust. Trust is the glue that cements relationships. You earn it by knowing your job and matching your words and deeds. Character and confidence speaks volumes. Your future Sailors and Marines will be looking to you to lead with integrity. Your character and confidence will be evident in everything you do.”

While on the campus of University of Southern California, Faller directly contributed to recruiting in Los Angeles.

“As we were walking on campus a young man saw my name tag and asked about a career as a medical officer,” said Faller. “After speaking to him for a few minutes, we had him hooked up with an officer recruiter on the spot.”

At an awards ceremony for Navy Recruiting District Los Angeles, Faller conducted an all-hands call, answering questions from staff members, updating current Navy operations and the future of Navy recruiting.

“What I envision is a seamless system that eliminates the stove-piping of data. The recruiting stations should be able to enter data that is seen in every stop of the future Sailor’s path to boot camp,” said Faller. “What we’re doing is looking at each of our systems, taking the best from each and creating one program. Streamlining the process will allow effective communication – from station to station, station to district, district to MEPS and MEPS to boot camp.”

Before leaving the group of nearly 250, Faller reminded the recruiters of the importance of their work.

“L.A. is a great market and you’re making a difference. You’re providing an opportunity; the same one that we were afforded. Without the work you’re doing, we can’t go forward as a Navy,” said Faller.

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Coast Guard Commander visits NRC

Capt. Lori Mathieu, commander, U. S. Coast Guard Recruiting, visited Navy Recruiting Command in March. She was briefed on the Navy's recruiting programs, processes and operations as well as given a tour of the Navy Cyberspace Recruiters facilities. (Photo by Chris Desmond/NRC)