From: NAVNEWS@nctamslant.navy.mil (Navy News Service)
Newsgroups: soc.veterans
Subject: Navy News Service - 30 Sep 92
Date: 2 Oct 1992 20:07:48 -0500
Organization: UTexas Mail-to-News Gateway
NNTP-Posting-Host: cs.utexas.edu

NAVY NEWS SERVICE - 30 SEP 92 - NAVNEWS 046/92
     Navy News Service (NAVNEWS) contains official news and
information and is intended for distribution to all Navy people.
Please help pass the word.  NAVNEWS is available:
     -- by message to the NAVNEWS collective address 
     -- on the CNO Bulletin Board, 1-800-582-2355/6940 or (703) 695-
6198/6388 
     -- by electronic mail from NAVNEWS(at)NCTAMSLANT.NAVY.MIL 
     -- and on the BUPERS ACCESS bulletin board, 1-800-346-
0217/18/27, 1-800-762-8567 or (703) 614-8070/6059/8076, (DSN) 224-
8070.                                                              
                            -USN-
TABLE OF CONTENTS FOR NAVNEWS 046/92
   Top News and Policy Stories
NNS104.  "...From the Sea" Details New Navy/Marine Corps Strategy
NNS105.  Navy Takes Initiatives to Combat Rape, Sexual Assault
NNS106.  Navy Offers More Voluntary Separation Benefits
NNS107.  USS Guam Amphibious Ready Group Deploys Early
NNS108.  Exercise "Display Determination '92" Begins
   Around the Fleet
NNS109.  Notable Quotable:  Asst. SECNAV Jacqueline E. Schafer 
NNS110.  Salute to Excellence:  ASO Philadelphia
NNS111.  USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) Receives Environmental Award
NNS112.  Fleet Composite Squadron One Ends Final Chapter
NNS113.  U.S. Naval Station Subic Bay Bids Farewell
NNS114.  NAB Coronado Hosts Seaweek Championship
NNS115.  Navy Christens USS John S. McCain (DDG 56)
NNS116.  This Week in the Navy:  October 3, 1959   
   Personnel Notes
NNS117.  BUPERS Outlines Steps to Save Bonuses
NNS118.  NAVCARE Appointments Lead to Quality Care
NNS119.  Naval Academy Streamlines Application Process
NNS120.  Relief Society Offers Interest-Free Student Loans          
NNS121.  1992 CHINFO Merit Awards Update                            
NNS122.  Navy Policy Book Update                                   
NNS123.  Absentee Ballots Hold Key to Your Vote
   Short Splices
NNS124.  Navy Exchanges Increase Returned Check Fee
NNS125.  Editor's Note
NNS126.  Flag Announcement
NNS127.  Navy News This Week              
                            -USN-
         Top News and Policy Stories
NNS104.  "...From the Sea" Details New Navy/Marine Corps Strategy
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The Secretary of the Navy, Chief of Naval
Operations and Commandant of the Marine Corps signed a new
Navy/Marine Corps strategy Sept. 28.
     "This document marks a sea change in naval strategic thinking. 
It details a new naval philosophy for today's world," said Acting
Secretary of the Navy Sean O'Keefe.
     The strategy, entitled "...From the Sea," and developed in
response to the challenges of today, shifts the focus
from a global threat to a focus on regional challenges and
opportunities, and concentrates on warfare near land and maneuver
from the sea.
     "'...From the Sea' defines a combined vision for the Navy and
Marine Corps and outlines the new direction of the Navy and Marine
Corps team, both active and reserve, in providing the nation with
naval expeditionary forces shaped for joint operations, and operating
forward from the sea," according to Chief of Naval Operations, ADM
Frank B. Kelso, II.  
     The principal elements of the new direction of the naval service
are strategic deterrence and defense; forward presence; crisis
response; and reconstitution.  This new course will provide the 
nation with naval expeditionary forces operating forward from the
sea, that are shaped for joint operations and tailored for national
needs.
     The new strategy is a fundamental shift from open-ocean
warfighting on the sea toward joint operations from the sea. 
Changing the naval forces to an enabling force, the strategy will
allow the Navy and Marine Corps to respond to global crises and
provide the initial capability for joint operations in conflict.
     "Never has the term 'Navy-Marine Corps team' had more relevance. 
Our new strategic direction will result in naval forces better
tailored to respond to the types of world crises that we anticipate
facing in the 21st century," said Gen. Carl E. Mundy, Jr., Commandant
of the Marine Corps.  "We now have a tailored force package better
structured to complement the components of a Joint Force.  We are
entering a golden era for naval force capabilities." 
     The naval service will continue to emphasize nuclear deterrence
through the use of nuclear ballistic submarines, as well as the
traditional naval mission of sealift.
     Increased attention to command, control and surveillance,
battlespace dominance, power projection and force sustainment is
required to successfully execute this new strategy.  Flexibility is
also a key factor -- naval forces will be tailored continuously to
anticipate and support national needs.
     "Even though the times are uncertain and the threats are
unpredictable, the opportunities are abundant.  We must capitalize on
these opportunities while ensuring that our naval forces remain
capable," said Kelso.
     To ensure the successful implementation of the new Navy/Marine
Corps strategy, the service is establishing a Naval Doctrine Command
to develop doctrine for expeditionary warfare.
Released by Chief of Information
                               -USN-
NNS105.  Navy Takes Initiatives to Combat Rape, Sexual Assault
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- In response to an increase in rape and sexual
assault cases over the past five years, the Navy has established a
full-time office at the Bureau of Naval Personnel (BUPERS) that will
be responsible for policy and guidance on rape, sexual assault and
victim assistance.
     The office was established as a result of twelve recommendations
made by the 1990-1991 Navy Women's Study Group and endorsed by the
Chief of Naval Personnel, Chief of Naval Operations and Secretary of
the Navy in April 1991.  The Chief of Naval Personnel ordered the
group to consider the problems of rape and sexual assault after the
Naval Investigative Service (NIS) closed 286 rape investigations in
1991 versus 200 in 1989 and 133 in 1987.     
     One of the functions of the new office is to develop and oversee
a comprehensive rape and sexual assault awareness and prevention
program for Navy personnel.  The office staff includes a Medical
Service Corps officer and a civilian specialist.
     Future training developed by the office will include deterrence
and prevention (including warning signs, safety tips and self-
defense); personal responsibility and mutual respect for others;
frequent connection between alcohol abuse and sexual misconduct; and
victim assistance information and support resources (on and off
base).  Training aids will include written materials, a commercially-
produced videotape, and videotapes produced by the Navy specifically
for Navy audiences.
     The Navy is also establishing a standardized rape/sexual assault
victim assistance program which will maximize quick response and
sensitivity, and minimize "re-victimization."  A pilot program, which
was established in 1991, is in operation at Naval Training Center,
Orlando, Florida.  This program will be implemented Navywide in the
near future, and will be based on experiences in Orlando as well as
inputs from the Sexual Assault-Victim Assistance Advisory Group at
BUPERS, along with representatives from NIS, legal, medical, family
advocacy and the chaplain corps.
     Plenty of information is available to help commands and Navy
people learn about what can be done to help eliminate the problems of
rape and sexual assault.  For example, NIS Area Command Atlantic has
agents available to give briefings on rape prevention, sensitivity
for victims and avoidance of violent crime.  The briefings will be
available on videotape by the end of October from Navy Imaging
Command, local NIS offices, family service centers and Navy training
libraries.  Additional resources are also available from family
service centers.
     Special Note:  As one of several initiatives to inform Navy
people about the problems of rape and sexual assault, beginning with
the Sept. 30 edition, the weekly video news program "Navy News This
Week" will run a hard-hitting, four-part television series on rape.
Part one will focus on what some call "date rape" or "aquaintance
rape," and how Navy women and men can avoid it.  In later weeks, NNTW
will center on rape as a violent crime; self-defense against
attempted rape; and helping a shipmate who is a victim of rape or
sexual assault.
Story by BUPERS Public Affairs
                               -USN-
NNS106.  Navy Offers More Voluntary Separation Benefits
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The Navy is again offering voluntary separation
benefits to certain career sailors in over-manned skill areas in the
form of Voluntary Separation Incentive (VSI) and Special Separation
Benefit (SSB) programs.
     These are strictly voluntary programs, with no threat of
reduction-in-force for those who decide to stay in the service.  The
Navy is using the programs to trim some over-manned specialties and
paygrades as the service becomes smaller.
     Beginning Oct. 1, approximately 14,500 eligible sailors in nine
ratings with eight to 17 years of service may apply for VSI or SSB. 
     VSI is an amount equal to 2.5 percent of annual base pay
multiplied by the number of years of service.  It is paid to an
individual in equal annual installments commencing upon separation
from active duty and on each separation anniversary date for a period
of time equal to twice the number of years of active service.
     SSB is a one-time payment made at time of separation, and is
equal to 15 percent of annual base pay multiplied by years of
service.  Certain transition assistance benefits and requirements
apply to each program.
     Approximately 4,180 petty officers have elected to leave the
Navy with VSI/SSB since the programs were first offered last spring.
     For more information consult NAVADMIN 152/92 (Sept. 29, 1992).
Story by BUPERS Public Affairs
                               -USN-
NNS107.  USS Guam Amphibious Ready Group Deploys Early
NORFOLK (NNS) -- In another example of the inherent flexibility of
naval forces and their ability to respond when called upon, more than
2,000 Atlantic Fleet sailors and 2,200 Marines will depart from their
East Coast homeports and bases nearly four weeks early for a six-
month deployment to the Mediterranean Sea.
     USS Guam Amphibious Ready Group (Guam ARG), composed of five
ships homeported in the Norfolk, Va., area, was originally scheduled
to depart Nov. 16.  Instead, the units will deploy Oct. 20 to ensure
the continued presence of an amphibious ready group in the
Mediterranean.  The early departure also reflects the Navy's
commitment to its sailors to limit overseas deployments to six
months.
     USS Guam ARG is scheduled to replace the USS Iwo Jima ARG, which
deployed May 27.  USS Iwo Jima (LPH 2) and its accompanying ships are
expected to return to their homeports in November.
     Guam ARG is headed by 18,000-ton amphibious assault ship USS
Guam (LPH 9).  Guam will also serve as command ship for Commander,
Amphibious Squadron Four.
     Other ships that will join the Guam ARG include amphibious
transport dock USS Austin (LPD 4); dock landing ship USS Gunston Hall
(LSD 44); and tank landing ships USS Sumter (LST 1181) and USS La
Moure County (LST 1194).
     Guam ARG will carry Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC) assault
craft, as well as other amphibious landing craft.  In addition,
Little Creek, Va.-based detachments from Naval Beach Group Two,
Tactical Air Control Squadron 22, and Naval Special Warfare Group Two
will join the ARG.
     Marines from the North Carolina-based 22nd Marine Expeditionary
Unit (MEU) will deploy aboard the ships.  The 22nd MEU includes
Marine Corps air and ground units as well as service support and
command elements.  Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 261 (HMM 261),
which is a composite squadron that flies CH-53 Sea Stallions, CH-446
Sea Knights, AH-1W Cobras and UH-1N Hueys, will deploy on board Guam.
     Other deploying Marine units include Camp LeJeune, N.C.-based
Battalion Landing Teams 1/6 and the 22nd MEU Service Support Group.
Story by U.S. Atlantic Fleet Public Affairs
                               -USN-
NNS108.  Exercise "Display Determination '92" Begins
NAPLES, Italy (NNS) -- Exercise "Display Determination '92," (DD '92)
got underway Sept. 25 throughout the Central and Eastern
Mediterranean and Turkey.
     DD '92 is an annual exercise that will continue through Oct. 8.
Its purpose is to enhance warfare capabilities through training and
coordination among NATO countries and commands in the Mediterranean
Southern Region.  The multinational exercise will utilize forces from
the U.S., Turkey, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, United Kingdon and other
countries attached to standing Naval Forces Atlantic.
     "The multinational exercise is designed to increase coordination
and communication among the different participants to solidify NATO
in the Southern Region and to build a stronger relationship among
all," said CDR Cal Felte, SIXTHFLT Representative to the NATO
Planning Team for DD '92.
     More than 50 surface and sub-surface vessels are participating
in the exercise.  Naval forces will be responsible for safe escort of
amphibious units in the exercise, and will practice mine counter
measures and the defense of an amphibious operations area in hostile
air, surface, and sub-surface environments.  Forces will escort
merchant ship convoys to practice maintaining sea lines of
communication.
     Naval forces will also practice naval power projection against
land, maritime and air targets.  Amphibious forces consisting of
Italian, Turkish and U.S. units will conduct an amphibious landing at
Saros Bay in Turkish Thrace.  Multinational allied tactical air
forces will conduct air defense, offensive and support missions for
maritime, amphibious and land exercises throughout the region,
allowing the nations to train in a full range of realistic defense
measures.
     ADM Mike Boorda, Commander-in-Chief, Allied Forces Southern
Europe, is commanding the forces of "Display Determination '92."
Story by NAVEUR News
                               -USN-
         Around the Fleet
NNS109.  Notable Quotable:  "...The Department of the Navy's record
of environmental and natural resources stewardship, like its record
of military readiness, is built base by base, command by command,
squadron by squadron, and ultimately person by person.  Success in
any mission -- whether military or environmental -- requires an
individual commitment and an all hands effort throughout an
organization.  And what I see here at Miramar is teamwork -- the
station and community moving out together to accomplish the mission
of sound environmental stewardship and natural resources
conservation, and setting an example of leadership to be followed by
other communities and other commands." -- Jacqueline E. Schafer,
Assistant Secretary of the Navy (Installations and Environment), in
an address to the personnel of Naval Air Station Miramar at the
presentation of the Secretary of the Navy's Natural Resources
Conservation Award for 1992.
                              -USN-     
         Salute to Excellence 
NNS110.  ASO Philadelphia Receives LIFT Award
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Naval Aviation Supply Office (ASO) Philadelphia
became the first military or federal agency to receive a U.S.
Department of Labor LIFT (Labor Investing for Tomorrow) Award in the
three-year history of the program.  
     LIFT Awards recognize organizations whose exemplary achievement
in designing and managing innovative programs prepare youth for the
workplace and improve the skills of American workers.
     Secretary of Labor Lynn Martin presented the award to RADM James
P. Davidson, commanding officer, Naval Aviation Supply Office,
Philadelphia, in ceremonies held at the Department of Labor in
Washington, D.C., on Sept. 29.
     ASO Philadelphia personnel were recognized in the "Partnerships
That Prepare Youth for the Workplace" category for their partnerships
with the Philadelphia School District, which provided cooperative
education efforts to approximately 60 "at risk" students. 
     "This award recognizes the achievements of the Navy and the
community working together.  The kids in the program are motivated to
do well, both in school and on the job.  It's a real win-win
situation for the Navy and the community," said Davidson.
     The students received job training, educational opportunities,
social and communications skills during classroom instruction held at
ASO Philadelphia.  As a result of this program, in the past year, 46
of 57 students went on to post-high school education.
     "I am proud to honor organizations that have made creative,
exciting and successful investments in two of our nation's most
precious resources -- its workers and its young people," said Martin. 
"It takes extraordinary dedication and hard work to design programs
that serve as models for ensuring that students still in school and
workers already on the job have the high skills and training which
today's workplace demands."
Story by Department of Labor Public Affairs
                               -USN-         
NNS111.  USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) Receives Environmental Award
ON BOARD USS CARL VINSON (NNS) -- USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) earned the
Fiscal Year 1991 Secretary of the Navy Environmental Quality Award,
Large Ship Category, for top environmental achievements accomplished
by its sailors.
     Jacqueline E. Schafer, Assistant Secretary of the Navy
(Installations and Environment), presented the Navy-wide award to
CAPT John S. Payne, Carl Vinson's commanding officer, in ceremonies
held on board the ship Sept. 22.
     "The crew of USS Carl Vinson has proven that their ship can not
only serve in a battle group as a centerpiece of the Navy's power
projection capability...they have proven that the Carl Vinson can
serve -- in port or at sea -- as a centerpiece of the Navy's growing
environmental projection capability," said Schafer.
     Through total commitment, proper management and training, the
aircraft carrier's sailors reduced the cost and volume of hazardous
material disposal by 80 percent in two months; earned nearly $50,000
for command recreation programs through recycling; and saved
taxpayers close to $400,000 in landfill tipping fees.
     Crew members from the Alameda, Calif.-based ship were also
active in the local community.  Personnel from the Supply Department
and Airframe Intermediate Maintenance Department (AIMD) sponsored a
local stretch of highway and regularly collected trash along the
route, as well as participated in local environmental efforts, such
as cleaning trash and debris from public grounds.
Story by Petty Officer Jason Chudy, USS Carl Vinson 
                               -USN-    
NNS112.  Fleet Composite Squadron One Ends Final Chapter
NAS BARBERS POINT, Hawaii (NNS) -- In ceremonies held Sept. 30 at
Naval Air Station Barbers Point, Hawaii, Fleet Composite Squadron One
(VC 1) was disestablished after 65 years of service.
     Throughout its long history, the squadron operated numerous
naval aircraft.  In 1925 its flight line boasted a row of DH-9 spruce
and linen biplanes.  The final aircraft flown by the squadron were A-
4E and TA-4J Skyhawks, and up to December 1991, the CH-53A Sea
Stallion helicopter.
     Services provided by the Skyhawk included target presentations,
air threat simulations and adversary services for fighter air combat
maneuvering.  Sea Stallions were used for logistics support of the
Kahoolawe training range and vertical on board delivery to fleet
surface vessels. 
     VC 1 provided services to various commands from all branches of
the armed forces in the Hawaiian area, and participated in exercises
with allied nations including Japan, Australia, Great Britain,
France, Italy, Portugal and Turkey.
Story by Fleet Composite Squadron One Public Affairs
                               -USN-
NNS113.  U.S. Naval Station Subic Bay Bids Farewell
U.S. FACILITY, Subic Bay, R.P. (NNS) -- U.S. Naval Station Subic Bay 
was disestablished Sept. 30 after 47 years of service to the U.S.
Pacific Fleet.
     A one-year withdrawal plan was developed in December 1991 when
the United States and Republic of the Philippines governments could
not agree on future American use of Subic Naval Base after the
Philippine Senate struck down the proposed Treaty of Friendship,
Cooperation and Security on Sept. 16, 1991.
     During the Vietnam Conflict, the naval station became the
busiest port in the Western Pacific with the greatest number of
visiting U.S. Naval vessels ever experienced by a U.S. Naval base
overseas.  In 1966 an average of 193 ships per month visited Subic
Bay.
     During its heyday the naval station served as a one-stop
shopping area where the fleet could receive repairs, supplies,
training and recreation.  It was also known as one of the best duty
stations and liberty ports where service members and families could
enjoy the culture and hospitality of the Filipino people.
     U.S. Naval Air Station Cubi Point remains the last U.S. facility
in the Philippines.  It is scheduled to be closed later this year.
Story by Public Affairs Office, U.S. Naval Forces Philippines
                               -USN-    
NNS114.  NAB Coronado Hosts Seaweek Championship
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Premier athletes representing the sea services of
12 countries will convene at Naval Amphibious Base Coronado in San
Diego, Calif., Oct. 10-18 to compete in the annual Conseil
International Du Sport Militaire (CISM) Seaweek Championship.
     CISM was organized following World War I by Gen. John Pershing
to help bridge language and cultural barriers and build a
cooperative, cohesive unit among allied forces.  Known as the Allied
Forces Sports Council, it was reformed by the French Armed Forces in
1948.  CISM now has a membership of 82 nations.
     CISM features four sports categories:  military, combat,
individual and team sports.  In addition to Seaweek, military sports
include Skiweek, modern pentathlon, shooting, military pentathlon,
orienteering, aerial pentathlon and parachuting.
     During Seaweek, athletes compete in two events, sailing and the
Navy pentathlon.  The pentathlon consists of five races:  an obstacle
race, life-saving race, seamanship race, utility swimming race and
amphibious cross-country race.
     Specific obstacles and features of the races require talents
unique to sailors.  For example, the fifth obstacle in the first race
requires the athlete to throw five hand grenades through a simulated
ship's watertight door, run through the hatch and secure it.  The
seamanship race includes working on a boatswain's chair, hoisting
cables and throwing lines and mooring.
     The five-member naval pentathlon team is generally comprised of
sailors from within the Naval Special Warfare community.
     "We do these things on a regular basis and, given the endurance
required, these events are a natural for us," said CAPT Thomas
Richards, commanding officer of the Special Warfare Center.  The
Center serves as the training facility for prospective Navy SEALS.
     Teams from Pakistan, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Netherlands,
Germany, Brazil, Canada, Italy, Norway, Greece and the United States
are expected to compete in the Seaweek Championship. 
Story by BUPERS Morale, Welfare and Recreation Division
                               -USN-    
NNS115.  Navy Christens USS John S. McCain (DDG 56)
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The Department of the Navy christened guided
missile detroyer USS John S. McCain (DDG 56) in ceremonies held Sept.
26 at Bath Iron Works, Bath, Maine.
     John S. McCain is the sixth of 17 Arleigh Burke class ships
authorized to be built.  The ship's Aegis combat system, made up of
radars, computers and weapons, is designed to function effectively in
all weather and any hostile electronic environment.  The ship is
equipped to carry standard surface-to-air and Tomahawk missiles
launched from fore and aft vertical launching systems; two fully-
automated, radar controlled Phalanx anti-air weapons systems; Harpoon
surface-to-surface missiles; one five-inch gun and electronic warfare
systems.  Burke class ships will replace the Adams and Farragut
classes of guided missile destroyers.
     John S. McCain is 505 feet in length, has a beam of 66 feet and
displaces approximately 8,300 tons.  The ship will have a crew of 23
officers and 300 enlisted personnel.
Story by OASD (Public Affairs)
                               -USN-    
NNS116.  This Week in the Navy:  
October 3, 1959 -- It was on this day USS Theodore Roosevelt (SSBN
500) was launched at Mare Island Shipyard, Vallejo, Calif.          
                               -USN-
         Personnel Notes
NNS117.  BUPERS Outlines Steps to Save Bonuses
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- With the prospect of FY-93 beginning Oct. 1
without a Defense Authorization Act to authorize certain military
bonuses and incentive pay, the Bureau of Naval Personnel has put out
the word for eligible enlisted personnel to delay reenlistments for
SRB, and for eligible officers not to execute new ACP contracts.
     NAVADMIN 151/92 (CNO WASHINGTON DC DTG 292315Z Sep 92)
authorized extensions until bonus and incentive authority is
reinstated by Congress.  House and Senate versions of FY-93
authorization bills include support for SRB and ACP, as well as
accession bonuses for certain enlisted and officer programs.
Story by BUPERS Public Affairs
                               -USN-
NNS118.  NAVCARE Appointments Lead to Quality Care
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- In response to results from patient surveys, the
Navy's NAVCARE clinics will begin scheduling appointments for the
first time during fiscal year 1993's first quarter, Oct. 1 to Dec.
31. 
     Patient surveys indicated the walk-in philosophy previously used
by NAVCARE ("Navy Cares" program) clinics led to significant waiting
times at clinics during peak hours.  Appointments for routine, non-
urgent problems will reduce waiting times for all patients and
improve services at the clinics.  An additional benefit of the
appointment system is that patients will be able to request a
particular physician.
     The NAVCARE program is an ambulatory healthcare delivery system
used by the Navy at 10 locations nationwide:  Norfolk, Va. (two
clinics); San Diego, Calif. (two clinics); Jacksonville, Fla.; Camp
Lejeune, N.C.; Charleston, S.C.; Camp Pendelton, Calif.; Long Beach,
Calif.; and Oakland, Calif.
     The free-standing medical clinics provide a full range of
wellness and family medicine services, acute and chronic care,
prescription services, immunization, mammographies, laboratory and
radiology services. 
     Patients who use NAVCARE clinics (all DEERS-eligible
beneficiaries) should expect that anyone who arrives at the clinic
with an urgent condition will be seen immediately.     
     NAVCARE clinics are open year-round, seven days a week. 
Services are provided from 0700-2000 Monday through Friday, and 0700-
1600 on Saturday, Sunday and holidays.
     NAVCARE appointments may be made by calling:
CAMP Lejeune -- (919) 577-2788; 1-800-995-2225 (after Oct. 19)
CAMP Pendleton -- (619) 941-5223; 1-800-995-2225 (after Oct. 19)
Charleston -- (803) 764-3454; 1-800-995-2225 (after Oct. 19)
Long Beach -- (714) 838-7261; 1-800-995-2225 (as of Oct. 22)
Jacksonville (Mayport) -- (904) 241-1145
Norfolk (Little Creek) -- (804) 486-7069
Norfolk (Virginia Beach) -- (804) 583-3248
Oakland -- (510) 632-5514; 1-800-995-2225 (after Oct. 19)
San Diego (Murphy Canyon) -- (619) 278-2592; 1-800-995-2225 (as of
Oct. 26)
San Diego (South Bay) -- Information Line (recording):  (619) 425-
NAVY; Clinic Line:  (619) 585-0099; Appointment line to be phased in
during October -- clinic line will serve as appointment line.
Story by BUMED Public Affairs
                               -USN-
NNS119.  Naval Academy Streamlines Application Process
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (NNS) -- The U.S. Naval Academy recently streamlined
the application process for sailors and Marines interested in
becoming commissioned officers.
     If you would like to recommend a young sailor or Marine for
admissions consideration, contact:  Candidate Guidance Office, U.S.
Naval Academy, 117 Decatur Ave., Annapolis, MD  21402-5018.  Point of
contact is YNC Valdez, (DSN) 281-4361 or 1-800-638-9156.
     Upon request, you will receive candidate packets and
instructions which must be completed by the applicant and returned to
the Naval Academy by March 15, 1993.
     Guidelines are contained in OPNAVINST 1531.4F for Navy
personnel, and MCO 1530.11E for Marines.
Story by U.S. Naval Academy Public Affairs
                               -USN-
NNS120.  Relief Society Offers Interest-Free Student Loans
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society has
Interest-Free Parent Loan funds available for eligible dependents of
active duty sailors and Marines.
     Applications for this program must be postmarked no later than
Nov. 15, 1992.  Students who would like to apply for the Interest-
Free Parent Loan program must meet the following eligibility
requirements:
     -- Be the dependent son or daughter of an active duty member of
the Navy or Marine Corps and possess a valid dependent's Uniformed
Services Identification and Privilege Card.
     -- Be enrolled full-time or accepted for full-time enrollment at
a post-secondary undergraduate or technical/vocational institution
accredited by the U.S. Department of Education.
     -- Have a cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.0 or better,
as measured on a 4.0 scale.
     For more information on this and other educational loan
programs, visit your nearest Navy-Marine Corps Relief office or
write:  Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, Education Programs, 801
North Randolph St., Arlington, VA  22203-1978; (DSN) 226-4904, (703)
696-4904.
Story by Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society
                               -USN-
NNS121.  1992 CHINFO Merit Awards Update
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Chief of Information (CHINFO) Merit Awards
guidelines were released to all ships and stations Sept. 4 via
OPNAVNOTE 5305.  
     Public affairs officers should check with their administrative
offices for Transmittal Number 16-92, Serial 09C/2U501080, Subject: 
Internal Media Award Competitions.
     The mandatory issue date as determined by Defense Information
School for print categories A, B, C, D and S (Navy unique) is Jan.
23, 1992 for weeklies and biweeklies, or the first issue immediately
following that date.  The required issue date for monthlies is the
January 1992 edition.  
     All entries are due at Navy Internal Relations Activity (NIRA)
by close of business Oct. 19.  Submissions will be judged Nov. 2-13. 
CHINFO will announce the winners via message.
     If your administrative office does not have the new notice, call
J. D. Leipold at (DSN) 288-4382 or (202) 433-4382.
                               -USN-
NNS122.  Navy Policy Book Update
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The Navy Policy Book will be available from the
Navy Aviation Supply Center Nov. 13, 1992.  Orders received prior to
that date will not be processed.  
     The maximum number of copies that can be ordered is 1,000. 
Place your order to:  Navy Aviation Supply Office, 5810 Tabor Ave.,
Philadelphia, Pa.  19120-5099 (formerly Navy Publications and Forms
Center), NSN 0584LP5414800.
                               -USN-
NNS123.  Absentee Ballots Hold Key to Your Vote
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- With election day only a month away (Nov. 3),
Navy personnel and family members who have applied for absentee
ballots should keep a close eye on their mailboxes -- ballots should
arrive within the first two weeks in October.
     This year voters will elect a President and Vice President, 470
members of Congress as well as thousands of state, county and local
officials.  Many of these leaders will make decisions that will have
a direct impact on the military, the Navy, and the quality of life
for service members and their families.
     All eligible military personnel and family members are
encouraged to exercise their right to vote.  In many areas, the
military vote has become an important segment of the electorate. 
Even where this is not a factor, close races sometimes hinge on
absentee votes.
     Information on candidates can be obtained from state or local
voting offices and through the DoD Voting Information Center.  The
DoD center offers a 24-hour telephone hotline (DSN 223-6500 or 703-
693-6500) that has information on elections and recorded messages
from governors, U.S. senators and representatives. 
     Access to the messages can be gained through a series of
telephone menus.  Callers may also leave a voice message for their
governor, senator, representative or chief state election official. 
Messages are forwarded to the appropriate official for direct
response.
Story by BUPERS Public Affairs
                               -USN-
         "Short Splices"
NNS124.  Navy Exchanges Increase Returned Check Fee
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Effective Oct. 1, Navy Exchanges will charge $20
for each check that has been returned by the bank.  
     Navy Exchanges had previously charged $15 for returned checks. 
The fee increase is required to meet higher administrative costs
incurred by the Navy Exchange for processing returned checks.  
     A $20 returned check fee is also being implemented at Army and
Air Force Exchanges.
Story by Navy Exchange Service Command
                               -USN-
NNS125.  Editor's Note
This message follows NAVNEWS 045/92, DTG 242300Z Sep 92.  NNS 045/92
contained the following story:
NNS103.  SECNAV O'Keefe Addresses DoD IG Report on Tailhook        
     Our policy is to release news when it is news.  An informed
sailor is a smarter sailor.
                               -USN-
NNS126.  Flag Announcement
     Secretary of Defense Dick Cheney recently announced the
President has nominated VADM Richard C. Macke for reappointment to
the grade of vice admiral and assignment as Director, Joint Staff. 
Macke is currently serving as Director, Command, Control,
Communications and Computer Systems, J-6, Joint Staff at the
Pentagon.
Released by OASD (Public Affairs)
                               -USN-
NNS127.  Navy News This Week 
     The Sept. 30, 1992 edition of Navy News This Week -- a
videotaped newscast generated for broadcast to Navy/Marine Corps
fleet and shore units -- includes the following stories:  FLEET
HEADLINES:  Navy Department releases details of "...From the Sea: 
Preparing the Naval Service for the 21st Century;" Labor Department
honors Philadelphia Naval Aviation Supply Office; Engine failure
cited as cause of V-22 Osprey crash in July; USS Guam Amphibious
Group deploys early to Mediterranean; Naval Beach Group Two
Detachment returns home from Florida, Bahamas; Navy awards USS
Shreveport the Arleigh Burke fleet trophy; Navy offers voluntary
separation benefits again in FY93; Camp Pendleton marks its 50th
anniversary; USMC 12th Defense Battalion also celebrates its 50th
anniversary; Exceptional Family Member Program helps sailors and
families; USS Sylvania returns to Norfolk after helping Florida's
recovery; USS Enterprise crew helps special students in Virginia; USS
Sylvania rescues troubled boat off Florida's coast; President Bush
commends Seabees' efforts in South Florida; RAPE PREVENTION PART 1: 
How to Avoid Date Rape; Financial tips for a comfortable retirement;
USS Nevada holds burial at sea for World War II hero, CAPT Donald
Ross; SUBPAC's new style chief's initiation uses old traditions.
     QUESTIONS?  CONTACT Navy Broadcasting Service, Navy News This
Week, Bldg. 168, NAVSTA Anacostia, Washington, D.C. 20374-1682 or
call (202) 433-5844, (AV) 288-5844.
     Input from fleet units ensures our most complete coverage of
global events affecting the Navy and Marine Corps.  Your video
contributions, on 3/4-inch, 1/2-inch or Hi-8 videotape, are needed. 
                               -USN-
     Feedback on this issue, inputs for the next issue, questions
about distribution, and suggestions for improving NAVNEWS are
invited.  Help us make NAVNEWS better.  Contact NAVNEWS
     -- by message to NAVINRELACT WASHINGTON DC//NNS//
     -- by electronic mail to NAVNEWS(at)NCTAMSLANT.NAVY.MIL
     -- by U.S. mail to Editor, Navy News Service, Pentagon 2D340,
Washington, D.C. 20350-1200
     -- by fax to (703) 695-6180 or DSN 225-6180
     -- or by calling us at (703) 695-1888; (DSN) 225-1888.
                               -USN-