Today at NPS May 2014
Today @ NPS May 2014
U.S. Navy photo by MC2 Chablis Torrence
Awards and Promotions Held During Morning Quarters at NPS
By MC3 Michael Ehrlich
Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Danica Sirmans has her “crows” pinned by Aviation Boatswain’s Mate Chief Rigoberto Garcia and Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Shawn Stewart during morning quarters, May 30.
NPS President retired Vice Adm. Ronald A. Route presided over the ceremony which included the presentation of the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal to Culinary Specialist 2nd Class Jeremy Myers, as well as the promotion of five other staff Sailors.
“Hard work does not go unnoticed, so hard charge and always push forward and you will be rewarded,” said Myers, who added that promotions are a tradition that both celebrate the accomplishments of an individual while serving as inspiration for the rest of the command.
“I am grateful to see my hard work pay off and I am excited to move forward and tackle the challenges that come with my new responsibilities,” added Sirmans.
The five Sailors promoted at the ceremony were Lt. Matthew Colpitts, Aviation Electronics Technician 2nd Class Joshua Anderson, Information Systems Technician 1st Class Joshua Camacho, Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Michael Ehrlich and Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Danica Sirmans.
By MC3 Michael Ehrlich
Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Danica Sirmans has her “crows” pinned by Aviation Boatswain’s Mate Chief Rigoberto Garcia and Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Shawn Stewart during morning quarters, May 30.
NPS President retired Vice Adm. Ronald A. Route presided over the ceremony which included the presentation of the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal to Culinary Specialist 2nd Class Jeremy Myers, as well as the promotion of five other staff Sailors.
“Hard work does not go unnoticed, so hard charge and always push forward and you will be rewarded,” said Myers, who added that promotions are a tradition that both celebrate the accomplishments of an individual while serving as inspiration for the rest of the command.
“I am grateful to see my hard work pay off and I am excited to move forward and tackle the challenges that come with my new responsibilities,” added Sirmans.
The five Sailors promoted at the ceremony were Lt. Matthew Colpitts, Aviation Electronics Technician 2nd Class Joshua Anderson, Information Systems Technician 1st Class Joshua Camacho, Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Michael Ehrlich and Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Danica Sirmans.
U.S. Navy photo by MC2 Danica Sirmans
Dean of Students Capt. Tom MacRae Retires
By MC3 Michael Ehrlich
Dean of Students Capt. Tom MacRae is presented with a flag that was flown over the Naval Postgraduate School during a touching retirement ceremony honoring his 27 years of naval service, May 30.
“My father and my mother sent me on this journey, with the advice to always seek challenge,” said MacRae. “My father would say, ‘If you were the smartest person in the room, you’re in the wrong room.’ NPS has so many great minds, which are a great way to challenge myself. The students and staff are resources that really put me to work.”
MacRae also received the Legion of Merit Medal during the ceremony, which he attributed to the staff he worked with during his tour at NPS.
“This medal really is an award to the team I worked with as Dean of Students,” said MacRae. “There are so many that worked their tails off, and they don’t get enough credit for the work they do. All the great ideas and hard work came from them. Led by Alex [Mabini], I know I am leaving NPS and the students in good hands.”
“[MacRae’s] leadership taught me a lot,” said Cmdr. Mabini, who now serves as Acting Dean of Students. “He was the right leader at the right time, and I hope to carry on the initiatives he brought, while always maintaining the focus on the students.”
MacRae graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy with honors in 1987 where he served as a company commander and a member of the intercollegiate boxing team. MacRae then began his career serving as mission commander aboard Patrol Squadron Sixteen out of Sicily and deployed aboard USS Lasalle (AGF-3) from Manama, Bahrain.
By MC3 Michael Ehrlich
Dean of Students Capt. Tom MacRae is presented with a flag that was flown over the Naval Postgraduate School during a touching retirement ceremony honoring his 27 years of naval service, May 30.
“My father and my mother sent me on this journey, with the advice to always seek challenge,” said MacRae. “My father would say, ‘If you were the smartest person in the room, you’re in the wrong room.’ NPS has so many great minds, which are a great way to challenge myself. The students and staff are resources that really put me to work.”
MacRae also received the Legion of Merit Medal during the ceremony, which he attributed to the staff he worked with during his tour at NPS.
“This medal really is an award to the team I worked with as Dean of Students,” said MacRae. “There are so many that worked their tails off, and they don’t get enough credit for the work they do. All the great ideas and hard work came from them. Led by Alex [Mabini], I know I am leaving NPS and the students in good hands.”
“[MacRae’s] leadership taught me a lot,” said Cmdr. Mabini, who now serves as Acting Dean of Students. “He was the right leader at the right time, and I hope to carry on the initiatives he brought, while always maintaining the focus on the students.”
MacRae graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy with honors in 1987 where he served as a company commander and a member of the intercollegiate boxing team. MacRae then began his career serving as mission commander aboard Patrol Squadron Sixteen out of Sicily and deployed aboard USS Lasalle (AGF-3) from Manama, Bahrain.
U.S. Navy photo by MC3 Michael Ehrlich
Open Forum Discusses Command Climate Survey Results, Way Ahead
By Kenneth A. Stewart
NPS President retired Vice Adm. Ronald A. Route, right, listens to an attendee’s comments during the recent Command Climate Survey (CCS) brown bag lunch and discussion in the Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering auditorium, May 29. Route spoke openly about the contents of the survey and NPS’ plans for the future.
NPS Department of Meteorology Research Associate Professor Tom Murphree attended the discussion.
“We feel encouraged that he [Route] wants to meet and that he wants to dig in to and realize what the issues are and how to resolve them,” said Murphree. “It was very helpful that the president wanted to meet with the NPS community.”
Command Climate Survey information is accessible on CCS website on the NPS Intranet. The CCS site includes areas where feedback can be submitted, and where NPS personnel can volunteer for one of several task groups designed to address areas identified in the survey.
By Kenneth A. Stewart
NPS President retired Vice Adm. Ronald A. Route, right, listens to an attendee’s comments during the recent Command Climate Survey (CCS) brown bag lunch and discussion in the Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering auditorium, May 29. Route spoke openly about the contents of the survey and NPS’ plans for the future.
NPS Department of Meteorology Research Associate Professor Tom Murphree attended the discussion.
“We feel encouraged that he [Route] wants to meet and that he wants to dig in to and realize what the issues are and how to resolve them,” said Murphree. “It was very helpful that the president wanted to meet with the NPS community.”
Command Climate Survey information is accessible on CCS website on the NPS Intranet. The CCS site includes areas where feedback can be submitted, and where NPS personnel can volunteer for one of several task groups designed to address areas identified in the survey.
U.S. Navy photo by Javier Chagoya
U.S. Army Pacific Recognizes NPS Student Support
By Javier Chagoya
U.S. Army Pacific (USARPAC) representatives, whose commands include Army forces in the Asia-Pacific region, recognized an NPS capstone project produced by students from the university’s War Gaming Applications class during a campus visit, May 28.
Maj. Cardy Moten, center, led the student-team throughout the process of designing and facilitating a war game that was provided to USARPAC G5 staff in support of contingency operations planning.
“We were able to provide them [USARPAC] a method to analyze their plan quantitatively and qualitatively,” said Moten.
Prepared at the request of USARPAC to support their operational and strategic planning efforts, the capstone project was led by War Gaming Applications students, from left to right, Lt. Sylvester Campos and U.S. Army Majs. Adam Haupt, Moten, Jesse Nesbit and Dave Risius.
By Javier Chagoya
U.S. Army Pacific (USARPAC) representatives, whose commands include Army forces in the Asia-Pacific region, recognized an NPS capstone project produced by students from the university’s War Gaming Applications class during a campus visit, May 28.
Maj. Cardy Moten, center, led the student-team throughout the process of designing and facilitating a war game that was provided to USARPAC G5 staff in support of contingency operations planning.
“We were able to provide them [USARPAC] a method to analyze their plan quantitatively and qualitatively,” said Moten.
Prepared at the request of USARPAC to support their operational and strategic planning efforts, the capstone project was led by War Gaming Applications students, from left to right, Lt. Sylvester Campos and U.S. Army Majs. Adam Haupt, Moten, Jesse Nesbit and Dave Risius.
U.S. Navy photo by Javier Chagoya
NPS Staff Sailors Support Local Rape Crisis Center
By Javier Chagoya
NPS Sexual Assault Response Coordinator Heather Ruppert, left, and NPS Enlisted Recreation Committee (ERC) President Aviation Electronics Technician 2nd Class Scott Froom, center, recently delivered a modest donation of $100 to Monterey County Rape Crisis Center Executive (MCRCC) Director Clare Mounteer.
Speaking for the ERC and her fellow Victim’s Advocates, Froom expressed his and his colleagues’ eagerness to support the center.
"As part of Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Month [observed by the Navy each April] we decided to plan for this donation to go to the community," said Froom.
Mounteer and her staff operate the MCRCC in a non-descript location where victims can find safety and counseling, last year they assisted some 500 victims of assault.
“Thankfully, only a few of those calls to the center were referrals from our military side,” said Ruppert who coordinates and ensures the training of victim advocates at NPS and at the Defense Language Institute Foreign Language Center.
Mounteer expressed gratitude for the NPS support and stated that she looks forward to continuing to share in the Navy's sexual assault prevention goals.
By Javier Chagoya
NPS Sexual Assault Response Coordinator Heather Ruppert, left, and NPS Enlisted Recreation Committee (ERC) President Aviation Electronics Technician 2nd Class Scott Froom, center, recently delivered a modest donation of $100 to Monterey County Rape Crisis Center Executive (MCRCC) Director Clare Mounteer.
Speaking for the ERC and her fellow Victim’s Advocates, Froom expressed his and his colleagues’ eagerness to support the center.
"As part of Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Month [observed by the Navy each April] we decided to plan for this donation to go to the community," said Froom.
Mounteer and her staff operate the MCRCC in a non-descript location where victims can find safety and counseling, last year they assisted some 500 victims of assault.
“Thankfully, only a few of those calls to the center were referrals from our military side,” said Ruppert who coordinates and ensures the training of victim advocates at NPS and at the Defense Language Institute Foreign Language Center.
Mounteer expressed gratitude for the NPS support and stated that she looks forward to continuing to share in the Navy's sexual assault prevention goals.
U.S. Navy photo by MC2 Shawn J. Stewart
Energy Seminar Covers the Role of Venture Capital
By MC2 Shawn J. Stewart
NPS Lecturer and retired Navy Cmdr. Kevin J. Maher presents CleanTech Venture Investor and energy/climate expert, Jill Watz, with a certificate of appreciation for her lecture as part of NPS’ Defense Energy Program’s “Defense Energy Seminar Series,” May 16. The lecture, entitled “The Role of Venture Capital in Funding New Energy Technologies” featured talking points ranging from climate change and pollution to investing in innovation and development of new energy technologies.
Watz’s hour-long speech emphasized the need for venture capital tactics, and how they help bring new technologies to the market.
“Traditional institutional investor funds are not well suited for the long time horizons needed to develop, commercialize and scale energy technologies,” said Watz, “There remains a strong need for the government and public private partnerships to invest in technology innovation and commercialization to bring important, low-carbon energy sources to market.”
Watz maintains venture capital is, and will play an important role in the development of energy within the DOD.
“I think it is particularly relevant to the DOD because energy is both a strategic asset to the military as well as the U.S.,” said Watz. “I would like to see the DOD continue its leadership advocating for clean electricity and fuel sources, providing demonstration sites for evaluating new energy technologies, and enabling pathways to commercialization through government procurement opportunities.”
By MC2 Shawn J. Stewart
NPS Lecturer and retired Navy Cmdr. Kevin J. Maher presents CleanTech Venture Investor and energy/climate expert, Jill Watz, with a certificate of appreciation for her lecture as part of NPS’ Defense Energy Program’s “Defense Energy Seminar Series,” May 16. The lecture, entitled “The Role of Venture Capital in Funding New Energy Technologies” featured talking points ranging from climate change and pollution to investing in innovation and development of new energy technologies.
Watz’s hour-long speech emphasized the need for venture capital tactics, and how they help bring new technologies to the market.
“Traditional institutional investor funds are not well suited for the long time horizons needed to develop, commercialize and scale energy technologies,” said Watz, “There remains a strong need for the government and public private partnerships to invest in technology innovation and commercialization to bring important, low-carbon energy sources to market.”
Watz maintains venture capital is, and will play an important role in the development of energy within the DOD.
“I think it is particularly relevant to the DOD because energy is both a strategic asset to the military as well as the U.S.,” said Watz. “I would like to see the DOD continue its leadership advocating for clean electricity and fuel sources, providing demonstration sites for evaluating new energy technologies, and enabling pathways to commercialization through government procurement opportunities.”
U.S. Navy photo by MC2 Shawn J. Stewart
NSAM Police Use Regional Facilities to Prepare for All Scenarios
By MC2 Shawn J. Stewart
Naval Support Activity Monterey (NSAM) Police Officers Jonathan Phillips, Bryan Swanston and Aaron Childers, from left to right, perform a stack-up procedure before entering an open area during room-clearing exercises at the Salinas Valley State Prison, May 14. The team was stressed with confusing factors to include the presence of civilians and the varying complexity of the urban environment.
“Close Quarters Combat (CQC) training allows us to be tactically alert,” said Swanston. “These scenarios are significant to NPS because an active shooter is one of the greatest threats to our campus; so we are hoping to train as often as possible.”
An active shooter is an individual actively engaged in killing or attempting to kill people in a confined and populated area. In most cases, active shooters use firearms and there is no pattern or method to their selection of victims.
“We wish these kind of people didn’t exist, but they do and they pray on an unsuspecting public,” said Swanston. “This is why we train so hard so we can meet the needs of the public and respond directly to the threat.”
By MC2 Shawn J. Stewart
Naval Support Activity Monterey (NSAM) Police Officers Jonathan Phillips, Bryan Swanston and Aaron Childers, from left to right, perform a stack-up procedure before entering an open area during room-clearing exercises at the Salinas Valley State Prison, May 14. The team was stressed with confusing factors to include the presence of civilians and the varying complexity of the urban environment.
“Close Quarters Combat (CQC) training allows us to be tactically alert,” said Swanston. “These scenarios are significant to NPS because an active shooter is one of the greatest threats to our campus; so we are hoping to train as often as possible.”
An active shooter is an individual actively engaged in killing or attempting to kill people in a confined and populated area. In most cases, active shooters use firearms and there is no pattern or method to their selection of victims.
“We wish these kind of people didn’t exist, but they do and they pray on an unsuspecting public,” said Swanston. “This is why we train so hard so we can meet the needs of the public and respond directly to the threat.”
U.S. Navy photo by MC2 Shawn J. Stewart
NPS, Team Monterey Visit New Training Facilities
By MC2 Shawn J. Stewart
U.S. Representative Sam Farr, with California's 20th congressional district, participates in a ribbon ceremony at Camp Roberts’ Combined Arms Collective Training Facility (CACTF), May 13. Farr and numerous Department of Defense (DOD) personnel and affiliates, including representatives from NPS collectively known as “Team Monterey,” participated in the event.
“The idea of ‘Team Monterey’ is to organize a collective panel of military officials from the various commands around Monterey County,” said Farr, who recognized the necessity of unification during the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process that led to the closing of the former Ft. Ord in 1994. He studied the various installations throughout his district and is working to ensure the maximization of their capabilities in terms of funds and assets.
“This [approach] allows us to find out what each command does, what their strengths and manpower skill sets are, and then and use this collaborative information to maximize assets,” said Farr.
The visit to Camp Roberts also included tours of the camp's $2.6 million dining facility, the $11.6 million CACTF with its 14 diverse structures representing various urban combat situations, and the Center for Interdisciplinary Remotely-Piloted Aircraft Studies (CIRPAS) which houses NPS’ own McMillan Airfield.
By MC2 Shawn J. Stewart
U.S. Representative Sam Farr, with California's 20th congressional district, participates in a ribbon ceremony at Camp Roberts’ Combined Arms Collective Training Facility (CACTF), May 13. Farr and numerous Department of Defense (DOD) personnel and affiliates, including representatives from NPS collectively known as “Team Monterey,” participated in the event.
“The idea of ‘Team Monterey’ is to organize a collective panel of military officials from the various commands around Monterey County,” said Farr, who recognized the necessity of unification during the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process that led to the closing of the former Ft. Ord in 1994. He studied the various installations throughout his district and is working to ensure the maximization of their capabilities in terms of funds and assets.
“This [approach] allows us to find out what each command does, what their strengths and manpower skill sets are, and then and use this collaborative information to maximize assets,” said Farr.
The visit to Camp Roberts also included tours of the camp's $2.6 million dining facility, the $11.6 million CACTF with its 14 diverse structures representing various urban combat situations, and the Center for Interdisciplinary Remotely-Piloted Aircraft Studies (CIRPAS) which houses NPS’ own McMillan Airfield.
Photo by John Sanders, Dudley Knox Library Special Collections
DKL Librarian Honored for “Going to Bat Against Breast Cancer"
by NPS Public Affairs
Dudley Knox Library’s Eleanor Uhlinger, left, is pictured with coworkers and friends in the 9th inning of the San Francisco Giants home baseball game against the Atlanta Braves, May 12. Uhlinger attended the game as a guest of honor, selected as an Honorary Bat Girl by the Giants and Major League Baseball in the “Going to Bat Against Breast Cancer” national campaign to build awareness of the disease.
“I am very excited that our 2012 World Series Champion San Francisco Giants selected me to help ‘Go to Bat Against Breast Cancer,’” said Uhlinger. “The support of the Giants and the MLB in raising awareness about breast cancer will assist in getting earlier diagnoses with better outcomes; and hopefully, eventually wiping out this disease that affects one out of 10 women in the U.S. alone.”
To her surprise, Uhlinger received her nomination for the contest by her DKL colleagues, many of whom saw her excel on the job only later to learn of her battle with the illness over a number of years.
“I was nominated for this honor by my coworkers here at NPS,” said Uhlinger. “I wouldn’t have gotten through breast cancer without there invaluable support.
“As a breast cancer survivor, I understand the disease and its devastating impacts to both the patient, their family, workplace and the community at large,” she added. “It takes a family to support a patient … And we are all part of that family.”
by NPS Public Affairs
Dudley Knox Library’s Eleanor Uhlinger, left, is pictured with coworkers and friends in the 9th inning of the San Francisco Giants home baseball game against the Atlanta Braves, May 12. Uhlinger attended the game as a guest of honor, selected as an Honorary Bat Girl by the Giants and Major League Baseball in the “Going to Bat Against Breast Cancer” national campaign to build awareness of the disease.
“I am very excited that our 2012 World Series Champion San Francisco Giants selected me to help ‘Go to Bat Against Breast Cancer,’” said Uhlinger. “The support of the Giants and the MLB in raising awareness about breast cancer will assist in getting earlier diagnoses with better outcomes; and hopefully, eventually wiping out this disease that affects one out of 10 women in the U.S. alone.”
To her surprise, Uhlinger received her nomination for the contest by her DKL colleagues, many of whom saw her excel on the job only later to learn of her battle with the illness over a number of years.
“I was nominated for this honor by my coworkers here at NPS,” said Uhlinger. “I wouldn’t have gotten through breast cancer without there invaluable support.
“As a breast cancer survivor, I understand the disease and its devastating impacts to both the patient, their family, workplace and the community at large,” she added. “It takes a family to support a patient … And we are all part of that family.”
U.S. Navy photo by MC2 Chablis J. Torrence
Tech Expo Builds Awareness of Ongoing Unmanned Systems Research
By MC3 Danica M. Sirmans
Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Research Associate Professor Dr. Doug Horner, second from left, shows off a Remote Environmental Measuring Unit (REMUS) unmanned system at the Center for Autonomous Vehicles Research lab, May 8. Horner was one of many NPS professors who took part in the Consortium for Robotics and Unmanned Systems Education and Research (CRUSER) hosted 2014 Tech Expo, which showcased a variety of unmanned systems.
“While NPS students and faculty participated throughout the symposium, the Tech Expo gave our students and faculty the opportunity to show U.S. and international leaders … the breadth and scope of NPS research activities,” said CRUSER Director Dr. Ray Buettner.
v According to its organizers, the 2014 Tech Expo was held in conjunction with the 11th International Mine Warfare Symposium, providing attending defense, industry and international leaders with an opportunity to meet NPS students and faculty, and to learn about their ongoing research.
By MC3 Danica M. Sirmans
Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Research Associate Professor Dr. Doug Horner, second from left, shows off a Remote Environmental Measuring Unit (REMUS) unmanned system at the Center for Autonomous Vehicles Research lab, May 8. Horner was one of many NPS professors who took part in the Consortium for Robotics and Unmanned Systems Education and Research (CRUSER) hosted 2014 Tech Expo, which showcased a variety of unmanned systems.
“While NPS students and faculty participated throughout the symposium, the Tech Expo gave our students and faculty the opportunity to show U.S. and international leaders … the breadth and scope of NPS research activities,” said CRUSER Director Dr. Ray Buettner.
v According to its organizers, the 2014 Tech Expo was held in conjunction with the 11th International Mine Warfare Symposium, providing attending defense, industry and international leaders with an opportunity to meet NPS students and faculty, and to learn about their ongoing research.
U.S. Navy photo by Javier Chagoya
Mine Warfare Developments Explored at International Symposium
By Javier Chagoya
NPS student Lt. Timothy Erickson, left, gives a tour of the Undersea Sensing Systems Laboratory during the 11th International Mine Warfare Technology Symposium held in Seaside, Calif., May 6- 8. Erickson’s presentation was one of many that introduced symposium participants to a plethora of manned and unmanned systems.
NPS Chair of Mine Warfare retired Rear Adm. Rick Williams III coordinated the symposium.
“Mining, countermine warfare, unmanned systems, and undersea dominance of the U.S. Navy were important topics to our attendees,” said Williams. “[At the symposium] professionals from around the world engaged in weighty discussions about their primary business – the security of their countries.”
NPS, the Office of Naval Research (ONR), the Program Executive Office Littoral Combat Ships (PEO LCS), OPNAV (N95), and The Consortium for Robotics and Unmanned Systems Education and Research (CRUSER) participated in the symposium. The International Mine Warfare Technology Symposium series is the only Navy-sponsored event solely focused on naval mine warfare and associated technologies and is only held once every other year.
By Javier Chagoya
NPS student Lt. Timothy Erickson, left, gives a tour of the Undersea Sensing Systems Laboratory during the 11th International Mine Warfare Technology Symposium held in Seaside, Calif., May 6- 8. Erickson’s presentation was one of many that introduced symposium participants to a plethora of manned and unmanned systems.
NPS Chair of Mine Warfare retired Rear Adm. Rick Williams III coordinated the symposium.
“Mining, countermine warfare, unmanned systems, and undersea dominance of the U.S. Navy were important topics to our attendees,” said Williams. “[At the symposium] professionals from around the world engaged in weighty discussions about their primary business – the security of their countries.”
NPS, the Office of Naval Research (ONR), the Program Executive Office Littoral Combat Ships (PEO LCS), OPNAV (N95), and The Consortium for Robotics and Unmanned Systems Education and Research (CRUSER) participated in the symposium. The International Mine Warfare Technology Symposium series is the only Navy-sponsored event solely focused on naval mine warfare and associated technologies and is only held once every other year.
U.S. Navy photo by Javier Chagoya
NPS Team Recognized for Marksmanship Abilities
By Javier Chagoya
Members of the NPS Rifle and Pistol Marksmanship Team won the 2014 Pacific Fleet (PACFLT) Pistol Team Match, Small Command Team Award at Camp Pendleton during a week-long competition culminating, May 4.
PACFLT Match Director Yvonne Roberts discussed the importance of the annual competition in a letter to the winning team.
“Every year these matches, and the support of commands such as NSA Monterey, provide a unique opportunity for participants to develop a solid foundation in weapons safety, maintenance, and marksmanship principles which they are able to take back with them to begin marksmanship programs at their own commands,” said Roberts.
NSA Monterey provided the NPS team with the ammunition and equipment necessary to prepare for and compete in the event.
“The Annual Pacific Fleet and All-Navy [West] event is a combined training evolution culminating in competition,” said team member and Deputy Dean of Students Cmdr. Alex Mabini. “Our team and participants from other small commands could not have participated in this event without the support of the NSA Monterey armory.”
NPS Marksmanship Team membership is entirely voluntary. Team members are pictured at the Roman Plunge Pool, from the left, NPS student and Team Captain Cmdr. Jeff King, NPS Academics Staff Electronics Technician 2nd Class Troy Sumaya, Team Coaches Youssef Carpenter and Joachim Beer, NPS student Lt. Christian Richer and NPS Deputy Dean of Students Alex Mabini.
By Javier Chagoya
Members of the NPS Rifle and Pistol Marksmanship Team won the 2014 Pacific Fleet (PACFLT) Pistol Team Match, Small Command Team Award at Camp Pendleton during a week-long competition culminating, May 4.
PACFLT Match Director Yvonne Roberts discussed the importance of the annual competition in a letter to the winning team.
“Every year these matches, and the support of commands such as NSA Monterey, provide a unique opportunity for participants to develop a solid foundation in weapons safety, maintenance, and marksmanship principles which they are able to take back with them to begin marksmanship programs at their own commands,” said Roberts.
NSA Monterey provided the NPS team with the ammunition and equipment necessary to prepare for and compete in the event.
“The Annual Pacific Fleet and All-Navy [West] event is a combined training evolution culminating in competition,” said team member and Deputy Dean of Students Cmdr. Alex Mabini. “Our team and participants from other small commands could not have participated in this event without the support of the NSA Monterey armory.”
NPS Marksmanship Team membership is entirely voluntary. Team members are pictured at the Roman Plunge Pool, from the left, NPS student and Team Captain Cmdr. Jeff King, NPS Academics Staff Electronics Technician 2nd Class Troy Sumaya, Team Coaches Youssef Carpenter and Joachim Beer, NPS student Lt. Christian Richer and NPS Deputy Dean of Students Alex Mabini.
MAE Faculty, Students Win ASME IGTI Best Paper
By Javier Chagoya
Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering (MAE) Research Associate Professor Dr. Anthony Gannon poses with two turbine motors of vastly different sizes at the NPS Turbomachinery Lab, May 5. Drs. Gannon, Garth Hobson and Chair Knox Millsaps, along with NPS student Lt. Michael Shea and Intern Chris Clay, were recently recognized with best paper honors by the 2014 International Gas Turbine Institute’s (IGTI) Technical Conference and Exposition for their work on microturbines, turbochargers and small turbomachines.
Gannon and his colleagues are working to build micro-molecular turbo pumps for high-vacuum applications such as battlefield chemical and biological detectors. They hope that improvements in micro-technology will eventually lead to the creation of a hand-held spectrometer capable of sniffing out atom-sized particles.
“We can’t show you the actual size of the [micro-electrical mechanical systems] MEMS-scale turbine without the use of a scanning electron microscope,” said Gannon. “The properties that act upon the turbine blade at human scale do not operate the same way in the MEMS-Scale. We discussed these results in our six-page summary paper.”
Gannon and other members of the MAE faculty submitted their paper at last year’s Technical Conference and Exposition, which was hosted by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME). Gannon is scheduled to present at the 2014 Expo in June and will receive the Best Paper Award for the NPS group at that time.
By Javier Chagoya
Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering (MAE) Research Associate Professor Dr. Anthony Gannon poses with two turbine motors of vastly different sizes at the NPS Turbomachinery Lab, May 5. Drs. Gannon, Garth Hobson and Chair Knox Millsaps, along with NPS student Lt. Michael Shea and Intern Chris Clay, were recently recognized with best paper honors by the 2014 International Gas Turbine Institute’s (IGTI) Technical Conference and Exposition for their work on microturbines, turbochargers and small turbomachines.
Gannon and his colleagues are working to build micro-molecular turbo pumps for high-vacuum applications such as battlefield chemical and biological detectors. They hope that improvements in micro-technology will eventually lead to the creation of a hand-held spectrometer capable of sniffing out atom-sized particles.
“We can’t show you the actual size of the [micro-electrical mechanical systems] MEMS-scale turbine without the use of a scanning electron microscope,” said Gannon. “The properties that act upon the turbine blade at human scale do not operate the same way in the MEMS-Scale. We discussed these results in our six-page summary paper.”
Gannon and other members of the MAE faculty submitted their paper at last year’s Technical Conference and Exposition, which was hosted by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME). Gannon is scheduled to present at the 2014 Expo in June and will receive the Best Paper Award for the NPS group at that time.
U.S. Navy photo by Javier Chagoya
NPS Marine Pays It Forward … to Vanuatu
By Javier Chagoya
NPS student and Marine Corps Capt. Kimberly Julka, right, and Research Associate Jane Barreto, center, help Capt. Tony Pollman deliver boxes of books to the post office for shipment to the Republic of Vanuatu, a tiny South Pacific island nation of just 221,000.
Pollman turned a passion for literacy into a partnership with the World Bank Family Network Book Project to deliver some 30,000 books to the island nation’s 26 schools.
“Most of the libraries on Vanuatu have no books and most of the schools lack even textbooks,” he said.
Barreto and Julka joined the effort to bring books to Vanuatu after learning about project, and together with Pollman prepared an initial shipment of books that they hope will hold students over until the World Bank shipment of some 30,000 books arrives in the spring of 2015.
“Once I saw what Tony was doing with the book project, I felt that I could pitch in too with a small donation to get books to Vanuatu,” said Barreto.
Vanuatu, originally “discovered” by Captain Cook and formerly known as New Hebrides, was the only country in the world to experience “condo-colonialism” or joint, simultaneous administration by British and French colonial powers.
During the colonial period, the British and French built schools and libraries to compete for native loyalties on Vanuatu; however, after the island nation gained independence in 1980, the Europeans left and many of the schools closed or became resource starved, left standing with nothing inside.
Pollman and his colleagues hope that their efforts will help improve literacy and increase opportunities for Vanuatuan children. Next year, Pollman and a friend studying at the nearby Monterey Institute of International Studies plan to travel to the tiny island nation when the mass shipment of World Bank books arrives so they can oversee their distribution.
By Javier Chagoya
NPS student and Marine Corps Capt. Kimberly Julka, right, and Research Associate Jane Barreto, center, help Capt. Tony Pollman deliver boxes of books to the post office for shipment to the Republic of Vanuatu, a tiny South Pacific island nation of just 221,000.
Pollman turned a passion for literacy into a partnership with the World Bank Family Network Book Project to deliver some 30,000 books to the island nation’s 26 schools.
“Most of the libraries on Vanuatu have no books and most of the schools lack even textbooks,” he said.
Barreto and Julka joined the effort to bring books to Vanuatu after learning about project, and together with Pollman prepared an initial shipment of books that they hope will hold students over until the World Bank shipment of some 30,000 books arrives in the spring of 2015.
“Once I saw what Tony was doing with the book project, I felt that I could pitch in too with a small donation to get books to Vanuatu,” said Barreto.
Vanuatu, originally “discovered” by Captain Cook and formerly known as New Hebrides, was the only country in the world to experience “condo-colonialism” or joint, simultaneous administration by British and French colonial powers.
During the colonial period, the British and French built schools and libraries to compete for native loyalties on Vanuatu; however, after the island nation gained independence in 1980, the Europeans left and many of the schools closed or became resource starved, left standing with nothing inside.
Pollman and his colleagues hope that their efforts will help improve literacy and increase opportunities for Vanuatuan children. Next year, Pollman and a friend studying at the nearby Monterey Institute of International Studies plan to travel to the tiny island nation when the mass shipment of World Bank books arrives so they can oversee their distribution.
U.S. Navy photo by MCSN Michael Ehrlich
NPS Celebrates Top Faculty During Annual P&T Ceremony
By MC2 Chablis Torrence
NPS Department of Defense Analysis Assistant Professor Heather Gregg, right, is congratulated by NPS President retired Vice Adm. Ronald A. Route during the annual Promotion and Tenure Ceremony, held in the Mechanical and Aeronautical Engineering (MAE) Auditorium, May 6. Gregg was one of 12 faculty members honored for promotion and/or achievement of tenure for the 2014 academic year.
“There are events in a university’s life that brings immense pride to the institution,” said NPS Provost Dr. Douglas Hensler, “and that event is the celebration of promotions and tenure.”
The ceremony was a first for Route, who expressed his pride in the institution as a whole.
“In spite of past challenges, you are our future,” said Route. “It couldn’t be any faculty … It has to be people like you; people who understand our students, people who are doing the research required to keep our institution and its students moving forward into the future.”
Honored for the 2014 academic year are:
By MC2 Chablis Torrence
NPS Department of Defense Analysis Assistant Professor Heather Gregg, right, is congratulated by NPS President retired Vice Adm. Ronald A. Route during the annual Promotion and Tenure Ceremony, held in the Mechanical and Aeronautical Engineering (MAE) Auditorium, May 6. Gregg was one of 12 faculty members honored for promotion and/or achievement of tenure for the 2014 academic year.
“There are events in a university’s life that brings immense pride to the institution,” said NPS Provost Dr. Douglas Hensler, “and that event is the celebration of promotions and tenure.”
The ceremony was a first for Route, who expressed his pride in the institution as a whole.
“In spite of past challenges, you are our future,” said Route. “It couldn’t be any faculty … It has to be people like you; people who understand our students, people who are doing the research required to keep our institution and its students moving forward into the future.”
Honored for the 2014 academic year are:
- Award of Tenure:
- Dr. Thomas Albright, Graduate School of Business and Public Policy
- Dr. Jeremy Arkes, Graduate School of Business and Public Policy
- Dr. Christopher Brophy, Associate Professor, Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
- Dr. David Olwell, Professor, Systems Engineering
- Dr. Eugene Paulo, Associate Professor, Systems Engineering
- Promotion to Associate Professor and Award of Tenure:
- Dr. Heather Gregg, Defense Analysis
- Dr. Theodore Huffmire, Computer Science
- Dr. Chong Wang, Graduate School of Business and Public Policy
- Promotion to Professor:
- Dr. Alex Bordetsky, Information Sciences
- Dr. Natalie Webb, Defense Resources Management Institute
- Promotion to Senior Lecturer:
- Mr. Luis Morales, Defense Resource Management Institute
- Promotion to Associate Research Professor:
- Dr. Anthony Gannon, Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
- Dr. Jae-Jun Kim, Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
- Dr. William Shaw, Oceanography
U.S. Navy photo by Javier Chagoya
NWC Monterey Grads Honored for Academic Achievement
By Javier Chagoya
During its quarterly ritual, the Naval War College Monterey Program held a brief ceremony honoring its top students earning their Joint Professional Military Education Phase I certification.
For the second quarter of Academic Year 2014, graduates who completed the program in the top five percent, honored with Highest Distinction, include Lt. Colin Boyle, Lt. Cmdr. Joshua Chisholm, Lt. Cmdr. Dustin Schouten and Lt. Robert Wendt.
Graduates earning with Distinction honors, by completing the program in the top 15 percent of their class, include Lt. Dusty Bartlett, Lt. Robert Bond, Army Maj. Roger Carvajal, Army Maj. Michael Loconsolo, Lt. Cmdr. James Low, Lt. John Lundgren, Lt. Samuel Morgan, Army Maj. Paul Moriarty, Air Force Maj. Jack Nelson, Lt. Brett Robblee, Lt. Dominic Simone and Lt. Jared Smearman.
Pictured, from left to right, are Chisholm, Simone, Loconsolo, Wendt, Moriarty and Bond.
By Javier Chagoya
During its quarterly ritual, the Naval War College Monterey Program held a brief ceremony honoring its top students earning their Joint Professional Military Education Phase I certification.
For the second quarter of Academic Year 2014, graduates who completed the program in the top five percent, honored with Highest Distinction, include Lt. Colin Boyle, Lt. Cmdr. Joshua Chisholm, Lt. Cmdr. Dustin Schouten and Lt. Robert Wendt.
Graduates earning with Distinction honors, by completing the program in the top 15 percent of their class, include Lt. Dusty Bartlett, Lt. Robert Bond, Army Maj. Roger Carvajal, Army Maj. Michael Loconsolo, Lt. Cmdr. James Low, Lt. John Lundgren, Lt. Samuel Morgan, Army Maj. Paul Moriarty, Air Force Maj. Jack Nelson, Lt. Brett Robblee, Lt. Dominic Simone and Lt. Jared Smearman.
Pictured, from left to right, are Chisholm, Simone, Loconsolo, Wendt, Moriarty and Bond.
U.S. Navy photo by MC2 Chablis J. Torrence
NPS Enlisted Staff Enjoy Behind-the-Scenes Tour of the Aquarium
By MC2 Chablis J. Torrence
Naval Postgraduate School Enlisted staff members are pictured during a dedicated tour of the Monterey Bay Aquarium (MBA), May 2. The Aquarium tour was provided to NPS Enlisted Sailors as a thanks for their service and volunteer efforts.
Monterey Bay Aquarium Sea Otter Research and Conservation Volunteer Coordinator, Brandi Katz, invited the Sailors to take a tour.
“My deepest gratitude goes to Ms. Brandi Katz for providing us the opportunity to enjoy a once in a lifetime experience,” said Gas Turbine Systems Technician Senior Chief Jeffery Ocampo.
During the tour, Sailors were afforded a rare behind-the-scenes look at the Aquarium’s most recent attractions, including the jelly fish exhibit and explanations as to how daily operations and simulated environments are controlled.
“I thoroughly enjoyed the ‘behind-the-scenes’ tour of the aquarium,” said Electronics Technician 2nd Class Troy Sumaya. “I learned a lot about simulated environments and saw how their daily operations make them unique to other aquariums.”
“We got to witness the dedication and passion it takes to truly appreciate the work MBA’s staff and its volunteers do daily,” said Ocampo. “My Sailors were happy with the experience and I’m sure they will never forget the sentiment.”
By MC2 Chablis J. Torrence
Naval Postgraduate School Enlisted staff members are pictured during a dedicated tour of the Monterey Bay Aquarium (MBA), May 2. The Aquarium tour was provided to NPS Enlisted Sailors as a thanks for their service and volunteer efforts.
Monterey Bay Aquarium Sea Otter Research and Conservation Volunteer Coordinator, Brandi Katz, invited the Sailors to take a tour.
“My deepest gratitude goes to Ms. Brandi Katz for providing us the opportunity to enjoy a once in a lifetime experience,” said Gas Turbine Systems Technician Senior Chief Jeffery Ocampo.
During the tour, Sailors were afforded a rare behind-the-scenes look at the Aquarium’s most recent attractions, including the jelly fish exhibit and explanations as to how daily operations and simulated environments are controlled.
“I thoroughly enjoyed the ‘behind-the-scenes’ tour of the aquarium,” said Electronics Technician 2nd Class Troy Sumaya. “I learned a lot about simulated environments and saw how their daily operations make them unique to other aquariums.”
“We got to witness the dedication and passion it takes to truly appreciate the work MBA’s staff and its volunteers do daily,” said Ocampo. “My Sailors were happy with the experience and I’m sure they will never forget the sentiment.”
U.S. Navy photo by MCSN Michael Ehrlich
NPS International Students Showcase Campus Diversity to Near-Record Crowds
By MCSN Michael Ehrlich
More than 3,000 students, faculty, staff and guests attended the Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) International Day festival, May 3. NPS opened its doors to the local community for a celebration showcasing more than 40 countries represented in the university’s student body.
NPS student and Uganda People’s Defense Force Marine Maj. David Okumo Munyua, was proud to represent his country at International Day.
“It gives us the opportunity to promote our country and the wonderful culture that makes us unique,” he said.
Attendees were able to sample foreign food offerings and desserts from over 36 diverse countries, making for a long, logistical planning stage. Mechanical engineering program student, U.S. Navy Lt. Eid Fakhouri, helped coordinate the event, which is sponsored by the NPS International Executive Committee.
“This is entirely a volunteer-based event and it took more than four months of planning for this amazing event to come together in the last few weeks,” said Fakhouri. “We simply wouldn’t have been able to do this without the support of the students and their families.”
Field Studies Program Coordinator for International Programs, Kim Andersen is responsible for introducing international students to parts of American culture. She also plays a key role in getting the word out about the event.
“The attendance was more than I expected and way more then we had last year,” said Andersen. “The entertainment value was very high and it allowed us to open our gates to the community, giving them a better view of what we do here.”
Japanese Maritime Special Defense Force Navy Lt. Yusuki Yamauchi also participated in the event. His second time in attendance, Yamauchi performed a traditional martial arts demonstration.
“This year’s International Day was certainly bigger and better than last year’s,” said Yamauchi. “It is a big honor to represent my country and show my culture through martial arts, because through martial arts training we learn about humanity and we learn to train our hearts,” he added. Also participating in the event for the second year is U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Keystella Mitchell. “I loved every moment of it,” she said. “It’s great that NPS hosts events like International Day to highlight our international students to make them feel welcomed, and show them the love that they show us when we visit their countries.”
By MCSN Michael Ehrlich
More than 3,000 students, faculty, staff and guests attended the Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) International Day festival, May 3. NPS opened its doors to the local community for a celebration showcasing more than 40 countries represented in the university’s student body.
NPS student and Uganda People’s Defense Force Marine Maj. David Okumo Munyua, was proud to represent his country at International Day.
“It gives us the opportunity to promote our country and the wonderful culture that makes us unique,” he said.
Attendees were able to sample foreign food offerings and desserts from over 36 diverse countries, making for a long, logistical planning stage. Mechanical engineering program student, U.S. Navy Lt. Eid Fakhouri, helped coordinate the event, which is sponsored by the NPS International Executive Committee.
“This is entirely a volunteer-based event and it took more than four months of planning for this amazing event to come together in the last few weeks,” said Fakhouri. “We simply wouldn’t have been able to do this without the support of the students and their families.”
Field Studies Program Coordinator for International Programs, Kim Andersen is responsible for introducing international students to parts of American culture. She also plays a key role in getting the word out about the event.
“The attendance was more than I expected and way more then we had last year,” said Andersen. “The entertainment value was very high and it allowed us to open our gates to the community, giving them a better view of what we do here.”
Japanese Maritime Special Defense Force Navy Lt. Yusuki Yamauchi also participated in the event. His second time in attendance, Yamauchi performed a traditional martial arts demonstration.
“This year’s International Day was certainly bigger and better than last year’s,” said Yamauchi. “It is a big honor to represent my country and show my culture through martial arts, because through martial arts training we learn about humanity and we learn to train our hearts,” he added. Also participating in the event for the second year is U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Keystella Mitchell. “I loved every moment of it,” she said. “It’s great that NPS hosts events like International Day to highlight our international students to make them feel welcomed, and show them the love that they show us when we visit their countries.”
U.S. Navy photo by MC2 Shawn J. Stewart
Laguna Seca Celebrates Military Appreciation Month at Monterey Grand Prix
By MC2 Shawn J. Stewart
NPS alumnus and Wounded Warrior, Army Maj. Jimmy Ryan, waves the green flag signifying the start of a race at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, May 3. Laguna Seca provided free general admission to service members and their families in honor of National Military Appreciation Month during this past weekend’s Monterey Grand Prix.
The raceway celebrated the service members in attendance with a barbeque and presented them with ample opportunities to participate in special VIP events including all access guided tours of pit crew and body shop areas. Culinary Specialist 2nd Class, Ahmad Fudge, participated in a VIP hot lap allowing him to ride in an official Mazda pace car.
“Being in one of the official pace cars was a once in a lifetime experience for me,” said Fudge. “I’m appreciative of Mazda and Laguna Seca for the great experience they were so happy to provide to me, and my brothers and sisters-in-arms.”
Military members were featured throughout the day including Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Danica Sirmans who presented trophies to race winners. There were also meet and greet tables where service members could interact with drivers and their crews.
“I got to meet and take a photograph with Patrick Dempsey from Grey’s Anatomy,” said NPS’ Senior Enlisted Leader Gas Turbine Systems Technician Senior Chief Jeffery Ocampo. “Patrick was extremely accommodating and gracious to us.”
“There is no better feeling than that of being appreciated,” said Fudge. “I felt like the sacrifices we make in the military certainly mattered to them … I can’t wait to do it again.”
By MC2 Shawn J. Stewart
NPS alumnus and Wounded Warrior, Army Maj. Jimmy Ryan, waves the green flag signifying the start of a race at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, May 3. Laguna Seca provided free general admission to service members and their families in honor of National Military Appreciation Month during this past weekend’s Monterey Grand Prix.
The raceway celebrated the service members in attendance with a barbeque and presented them with ample opportunities to participate in special VIP events including all access guided tours of pit crew and body shop areas. Culinary Specialist 2nd Class, Ahmad Fudge, participated in a VIP hot lap allowing him to ride in an official Mazda pace car.
“Being in one of the official pace cars was a once in a lifetime experience for me,” said Fudge. “I’m appreciative of Mazda and Laguna Seca for the great experience they were so happy to provide to me, and my brothers and sisters-in-arms.”
Military members were featured throughout the day including Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Danica Sirmans who presented trophies to race winners. There were also meet and greet tables where service members could interact with drivers and their crews.
“I got to meet and take a photograph with Patrick Dempsey from Grey’s Anatomy,” said NPS’ Senior Enlisted Leader Gas Turbine Systems Technician Senior Chief Jeffery Ocampo. “Patrick was extremely accommodating and gracious to us.”
“There is no better feeling than that of being appreciated,” said Fudge. “I felt like the sacrifices we make in the military certainly mattered to them … I can’t wait to do it again.”
U.S. Navy photo by Javier Chagoya
NPS Sailor Recognized for Volunteerism During Morning Quarters
By Javier Chagoya
NPS Protocol Office staff member Culinary Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Jeremy Myers proudly shows off his Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal, following quarters and a Summer whites inspection, May 2.
“It’s great to be recognized for something I have a passion for,” said Meyers. “A lot of us do things with the Enlisted Recreation Committee to raise money, which helps out with the overall morale of the troops, but there are many other good causes that need our support.”
The Outstanding Volunteer Service Award recognizes Sailors who have served as a community volunteer for at least three consecutive years. Myers recently participated in a 24-hour Relay for Life event and has been involved in community service throughout his military career.
By Javier Chagoya
NPS Protocol Office staff member Culinary Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Jeremy Myers proudly shows off his Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal, following quarters and a Summer whites inspection, May 2.
“It’s great to be recognized for something I have a passion for,” said Meyers. “A lot of us do things with the Enlisted Recreation Committee to raise money, which helps out with the overall morale of the troops, but there are many other good causes that need our support.”
The Outstanding Volunteer Service Award recognizes Sailors who have served as a community volunteer for at least three consecutive years. Myers recently participated in a 24-hour Relay for Life event and has been involved in community service throughout his military career.