From: "Navy News Service" <NAVNEWS@nctamslant.navy.mil>
Subject: Navy News Service - 6/7 Oct 92
Organization: NCR Corporation -- Law Department
Date: Sat, 10 Oct 1992 13:32:31 GMT


From "Navy News Service" <NAVNEWS@nctamslant.navy.mil>

NAVY NEWS SERVICE - 6 OCT 92 - NAVNEWS 048/92
    Editor's Note 
    This Navy News Service message follows NAVNEWS 047/92, DTG
022200Z Oct 92.   NAVNEWS 048/92 is being released as a means of
providing more timely information to the fleet; we will release
news when it is news.
                           - USN - 
NNS130.  "...From the Sea" -- The Complete Text 
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.  The strategy, entitled
"...From the Sea," and developed in response to the challenges of
today's world, shifts the focus from a global threat to a focus
on regional challenges and opportunities, and concentrates on
littoral (near land) warfare and maneuver from the sea. 
     The entire text of "...From the Sea," is as follows: ... 
... [The complete text of "...From the Sea" is not repeated here 
because it was emailed separately to all NavNews by Email
subscribers on 3 Oct 92.  If you did not receive it or if you
would like another copy by email, just send a short note to
navnews@nctamslant.navy.mil.  Please include your Internet email
address in the text of your request.  The complete text of
"...From the Sea" is also available by anonymous FTP from
nctamslant.navy.mil (26.8.0.31).  The filename is FROMSEA.TXT.] 
                           - USN - 
NAVY NEWS SERVICE - 7 OCT 92 - NAVNEWS 049/92
     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 049/92
   Top News and Policy Stories
NNS131.  Good News for Navy Personnel in FY-93 Defense Bills  
NNS132.  Presidential Commission Wraps Up Testimony          
NNS133.  Navy Issues Restrictions on Use of Weapon Systems
NNS134.  U.S. and Kuwaiti Forces Conclude Eager Sentry 92-4         
NNS135.  "...From the Sea" Available Electronically                 
NNS136.  Navy Celebrates 217th Birthday Oct. 13                     
   Around the Fleet
NNS137.  Notable Quotable:  SECNAV O'Keefe                          
NNS138.  Salute to Excellence:  VMFA-451 Reaches Major Milestone  
NNS139.  Kennedy Battle Group Deploys to Mediterranean
NNS140.  "Bombcats" Join the Fleet                                  
NNS141.  USS Belleau Wood (LHA 3) Arrives in Sasebo, Japan          
NNS142.  Civilian Healthcare Commission Recognizes Navy Medicine
NNS143.  Cherry Point Breaks Ground for New Hospital
NNS144.  Cecil Field Recognized for Conservation Efforts
NNS145.  Military Sealift Command Ship Rescues Fishing Boat Crew 
NNS146.  This Week in the Navy:  October 10, 1944  
   Personnel Notes
NNS147.  JOBS Program Helps Sailors Advance                         
NNS148.  Selection Board Awards Subspecialties to 2,146 Officers    
NNS149.  VSI/SSB Offered to Officers        
NNS150.  Philippines-Homeported Sailors Can Carry-Over Leave        
NNS151.  More Navy Officers Confirmed for Promotions                
   Short Splices
NNS152.  Editor's Note
NNS153.  Flag Announcement
NNS154.  Navy News This Week              
                            -USN-
         Top News and Policy Stories
NNS131.  Good News for Navy Personnel in FY-93 Defense Bills
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The Defense Authorization and Appropriations
bills passed by Congress for FY-93 support a 3.7 per cent increase in
pay and allowances, the Navy's bonus and incentive programs, several
quality of life initiatives for Navy personnel and their families,
and the Navy's manpower strategy for reducing personnel strength
without involuntary separations of mid-career personnel.
     Congress approved the Administration's request for a 3.7 per
cent cost-of-living adjustment effective Jan. 1, 1993, increasing
base pay, BAS and BAQ for military personnel.  For example, a third
class petty officer (E-4) with four years of service and dependents
will see a total increase (before taxes) of about $64 monthly.  The
increase for other paygrades can be estimated by multiplying current
base pay, BAS and BAQ by .037.
     A new longevity pay raise at the 24-year mark also becomes
effective Jan. 1, 1993, for E-7's, E-8's, E-9's, W-4's and 
O-6's.  This is expected to encourage some career personnel to retire
earlier, since previous "fogeys" came only at the 22 and 26-year
points.
     Congress fully funded the Navy's proposals for bonus and
incentive programs for FY-93, including selective reenlistment
bonuses (SRB) and aviation continuation pay (ACP).  The Authorization
Act also restores the Navy's authority to pay these bonuses -- that
authority having expired at the end of FY-92.  Navy personnel earlier
were advised by BUPERS to defer reenlistments and bonus contracts
until authority was restored (see NAVADMIN 151/92).
     Funds approved by Congress for permanent change of station (PCS)
moves will permit the Navy to order reassignments necessary in FY-93. 
In a new provision for families moving into some areas with housing
shortages, the Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) may be extended for up
to 10 days, up from four days previously authorized.
     Congress supported several quality of life initiatives proposed
by the Navy, including increased appropriated funding for MWR
programs and child care.  To increase the availability of Navy
housing, Congress approved new construction of 758 units in Hawaii,
300 units in San Diego, 100 units in New London, Conn., and 200 units
in Bremerton, Wash., as well as a Navy community center in Earle,
N.J.  Congress also supported $131 million for improvements to
existing Navy housing in several locations. 
     Continuing a drawdown in the size of the U.S. military, Congress
approved the Navy's plans to bring down the Navy's active duty
population to 535,800 by the end of FY-93, compared to an authorized
end strength of 551,289 for FY-92.  The Navy will continue to make
reductions primarily by:
     -- Reducing accessions of new sailors and officers to minimal
levels necessary to meet requirements, now and future.
     -- Voluntary separations from the Navy, including "early outs"
and those leaving with separation benefits.
     -- Voluntary and selective early retirements.
     -- Managing entry to the career force through ENCORE (Enlisted
Navy Career Options for Reenlistment).
     With personnel reductions well on track, the Navy plans to
continue a policy cornerstone permitting career personnel to reach
retirement eligibilty without threat of involuntary separation. 
     Congress made some modifications to voluntary separation
benefits programs -- the Voluntary Separation Incentive (VSI) and
Special Separation Benefit (SSB).  The new law will entitle service
members electing VSI to receive the same transition assistance
benefits as SSB takers.  It also allows members opting for VSI to
elect a partial or full offset of annual VSI payments if any future
active or reserve pay is received.  In addition, the changes enable
VSI separatees to count military service toward Civil Service
retirement -- as already permitted for those selecting SSB. 
     Congress also has given the services the option to offer early
retirement for members who have at least 15 years of service as a
drawdown tool until FY-95.  This provision was a Congressional
initiative, and DoD has not said whether or how early retirement will
be offered.
Story by BUPERS Public Affairs
                              - USN -
NNS132.  Presidential Commission Wraps Up Testimony
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The Presidential Commission on the Assignment of
Women in the Armed Forces has concluded eight months of testimony and
hearings, and is now developing findings and recommendations to
forward to the President and Congress on women in combat and related
policies.
     "The big challenge for all of us," said one commissioner,
Meredith A. Neizer, "is to rely on what the research and facts are
telling us and come forward with a recommendation based on that."
     Since March, the commission has heard testimony from civilian
subject matter experts, representatives of the public and special
interest groups, and a wide variety of military men and women from
all ranks -- ranging from flag officers to commanding officers to
junior personnel from officer and enlisted ranks.
     Three of the commission's meetings were held outside of
Washington, D.C. -- in Chicago, Ill., Los Angeles, Calif., and
Dallas, Texas.  In addition, individual commissioners visited naval
installations, including Naval Air Station Miramar, Naval Station San
Diego, Submarine Base Kings Bay and Naval Training Center Orlando.
     Commissioners also made pierside visits to ships in Norfolk,
Va., and San Diego, Calif., and submarines in Kings Bay, Ga.  They
embarked on an aircraft carrier to observe operations underway and to
interview members of the crew and air wing.
     Final testimony was presented at hearings held in Washington,
D.C., Oct. 1-4, and a report of the commission's findings and
recommendations are due to the President on Nov. 15 and to Congress
on Dec. 15.
     "The commission has had a very difficult task, and all the
services have worked hard to support their work," said CAPT Martha
Whitehead, Special Assistant for Women's Policy at the Bureau of
Naval Personnel.  "The commission's report will directly impact how
we employ Navy women in the future."
Story by BUPERS Public Affairs
                               -USN-
NNS133.  Navy Issues Restrictions on Use of Weapon System
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Chief of Naval Operations, Admiral Frank B.
Kelso, II, has ordered U.S. Navy units worldwide to restrict
operation of their NATO Sea Sparrow weapon system until ongoing
investigations can determine the cause of an accidental firing of the
system on board aircraft carrier USS Saratoga (CV 60) Oct. 1.
     In addition to the three-member Board of Inquiry currently on
board Saratoga to investigate Thursday's tragic accident, Kelso has
directed the Commander of Naval Sea Systems Command, VADM Kenneth C.
Malley, to coordinate a top-to-bottom review of the entire Sea
Sparrow system, to include all hardware components, maintenance and
operational procedures, and operator training.
     Until further notice, commanders have been told to place their
Sea Sparrow weapon systems in a restricted level of readiness.  This
action will include removal from the system of certain components
needed for missile firing.  Operational commanders may elect to keep
systems operational on selected units if it is deemed necessary for
adequate self-defense of the ship.
     The U.S. Navy has operated the Sea Sparrow missile system for
more than 17 years without any known accident of this nature. 
Nevertheless, Kelso has directed these actions as prudent measures to
ensure there can be no reoccurrence.
Released by Chief of Information
                               -USN-
NNS134.  U.S. and Kuwaiti Forces Conclude Eager Sentry 92-4
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- USS Paul F. Foster (DD 964) and USS Fanning (FF
1076), currently operating in the Arabian Gulf as part of U.S. Naval
Forces Central Command, recently completed an important exercise with
the Kuwaiti navy.
     Exercise Eager Sentry 92-4 stressed basic skills meant to
improve readiness and interoperability between the two nations'
forces.  In addition to enhancing technical capabilities, Eager
Sentry also helped develop professional and social ties between the
two navies.
     Capt. Abdullah Al-Dashti, commanding officer of the Kuwaiti
naval ship Istiglal, said the exercise was of great benefit.  The
Kuwaiti sailors were able to work on basic skills during the
exercise, and they highly regarded the operational excellence of the
Americans, he said.
     Al-Dashti and CAPT James Quinn, Commander, Surface Squadron
Five, the officer in charge of the exercise, held a press conference
on board Foster at the conclusion of Eager Sentry.
     "We accomplished all of our objectives," said Quinn. "The only
problem we had was the weather."  Strong winds forced the
cancellation of a boarding and search exercise.  
     The hands-on training was designed to give the Kuwaitis the
skills necessary to search merchant vessels in support of U.N.
sanctions against Iraq.  Kuwaiti involvement in maritime interception
operations may be needed in case Iraq opens ports in the Arabian Gulf
to receive shipping for export or import.
     Quinn said that elements of the exercise included Kuwaiti
tactical control of a U.S. helicopter, air defense drills with
Kuwaiti Air Force aircraft acting as aggressors, and command, control
and communications exercises.
     Additional Eager Sentry exercises are planned as part of the
continuing U.S. Navy/Kuwaiti exercise program.
Story by U.S. Naval Forces Central Command Public Affairs
                               -USN-
NNS135.  "...From the Sea" Available Electronically        
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The complete text of the Navy document, "...From
the Sea," is now available electronically through various bulletin
boards.
     The document, which outlines the new strategic direction for the
Navy and Marine Corps team, was signed by the Secretary of the Navy,
Chief of Naval Operations and Commandant of the Marine Corps Sept.
28.  "...From the Sea" was described in detail in NAVNEWS 046/92,
article NNS104.  The entire text of the document was released in
NAVNEWS 048/92, article NNS130. 
     The electronic version of "...From the Sea" contains the
complete text of the original printed edition (about 26,000
characters), and is available as follows:
     -- By electronic mail.  Send your request via e-mail to navnews
(at) nctamslant.navy.mil, and include your Defense Data Network (DDN)
or Internet address in the text of your request.
     -- By anonymous FTP from nctamslant.navy.mil in the MISC
subdirectory.  Anonymous FTP is a fast and convenient file transfer
protocol available to many DDN and Internet users.
     -- By downloading from the "articles" or "miscellaneous" file
areas of the CNO bulletin board.  Registration is required to gain
access to the CNO bulletin board for downloading this information. 
The modem phone numbers are (800) 582-2355; (800) 582-6940; (703)
695-6198; or (703) 695-6388.
     Questions about electronic mail or anonymous FTP may be directed
to CDR Tim Taylor at (DSN) 565-1038 or (804) 445-1038.  Questions
about the CNO bulletin board may be directed to Henrietta Wright at
(DSN) 225-5471 or (703) 695-5471.
Story by CINCLANTFLT Public Affairs
                               -USN-
NNS136.  Navy Celebrates 217th Birthday Oct. 13
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The U.S. Navy will celebrate its 217th birthday
Oct. 13, and this year's celebration is highlighted by the theme,
"From the Sea, to the Future -- Preparing the Naval Service for the
21st Century."  The following birthday greetings to the men and women
of the U.S. Navy were sent in ALNAV messages by the Secretary of the
Navy and Chief of Naval Operations:
     "Much is changing in the world and many challenges lie ahead. 
But there are constants -- integrity, professionalism and tradition -
- that lie at the very heart of this, the world's finest Navy.  And
that will never change.
     "Fifty years ago, the second World War hung in the balance.  The
Navy was fighting around the world, helping to turn the tide of
battle with heroism and sacrifice.  Thirty years ago, the Cold War
was at its peak, and the Navy was sailing on the front lines,
establishing a quarantine of Cuba.  Today, Navy aircraft roar over
the marshes of Southern Iraq and Navy ships patrol the troubled
waters of the Persian Gulf and the Adriatic.  The nation calls, the
Navy answers.  That too will never change.
     "All of us, whether serving afloat or ashore, must work together
to keep the fleet ready -- today, tomorrow, forever.  God Bless and
happy birthday, Navy." -- Secretary of the Navy Sean O'Keefe
     "As we celebrate the 217th birthday of this wonderful
institution, our Navy is at sea around the world.  From the Persian
Gulf to the Adriatic to the Caribbean to the Pacific Ocean, Navy men
and women are on station, preserving the peace, guarding our freedoms
and serving our great nation.
     "Our Navy is smaller this year, but no less ready to sail in
harm's way.  Despite many changes in our world, you have responded to
every call.  When the President needed you to enforce U.N. sanctions
against Iraq, you were there.  When our citizens needed you in the
wake of Hurricanes Andrew and Iniki and Typhoon Omar, you were there. 
When the world community needed you off the coast of Yugoslavia and
Somalia, you were there.
     "Yet we are passing through some difficult times.  As we meet
the challenges of the future, we must remember the enduring values of
the Navy.  We serve professionally.  We represent our country
proudly.  We honor our diversity.  We lead with dignity.  We respect
our shipmates.
     "You have much to be proud of as you embark on another year of
service to your country and your fellow citizens.  Your professional
achievements are admired and appreciated by Americans from all walks
of life and by freedom-loving people everywhere.  Our world enjoys
brighter hopes for peace than at any other time in our lives, thanks
in large part to your hard work and sacrifices.
     "I am proud of your accomplishments.  To our whole Navy family,
I wish you a happy Navy birthday." -- ADM Frank B. Kelso, II.
                               -USN-
         Around the Fleet
NNS137.  Notable Quotable:  "...The simplest and most straightforward
thing I know about future submarine roles and concepts is that
submarines will be used in all aspects of maritime warfare.  To be
sure, antisubmarine warfare is no longer our highest warfighting
priority.  The greatest challenge we faced that fully justified the
need for advanced submarine systems gave up just last year.  Even so,
future scenarios call for submarine use in every aspect of what our
joint forces do at sea.  And to keep submarines in the fleet, we need
the kind of teamwork exemplified by this audience -- industry and the
service, working together in a fair and straightforward
relationship." -- Secretary of the Navy Sean O'Keefe, in an address
to the National Security Industrial Association in Newport, R.I.,
Sept. 16, 1992.
                              -USN- 
         Salute to Excellence 
NNS138.  VMFA-451 Reaches Major Milestone
BEAUFORT, S.C. (NNS) -- The "Warlords" of Marine Corps Fighter Attack
Squadron 451 (VMFA-451) recently achieved 60,000 mishap-free flight
hours, making it the only fighter attack unit in the Marine Corps
with 60,000 class "A" mishap-free flight hours.
     It took the "Warlords" 14 years to achieve the record, and the
accomplishment is especially noteworthy because during that time the
squadron made the transition from F-4 Phantoms to F/A-18 Hornets,
flew in combat, and deployed several times.  The squadron is also at
the top of all F/A-18 squadron lists for flying the most mishap-free
flight hours.
     "This is something very few squadrons have done," said Capt.
Mike Beall, VMFA-451 safety officer. "It takes good solid flying,
good solid briefs and solid ground crews doing everything right for
this to happen."
     "Our goal is to fly professionally and train for combat," said
Maj. David Dean, VMFA-451 executive officer.  "Achieving 60,000
(mishap-free hours) just happens to be a noteworthy bi-product that
we're extremely happy to achieve."
Story by Cpl. Shannon Arledge
                               -USN-    
NNS139.  Kennedy Battle Group Deploys to Mediterranean 
NORFOLK (NNS) -- USS John F. Kennedy Battle Group, composed of more
than 9,000 sailors and Marines, ten ships, two submarines and a
variety of aviation squadrons and detachments will depart for a
scheduled deployment to the Mediterranean Sea Oct. 7.
     The Kennedy Battle Group will replace the USS Saratoga Battle
Group, which deployed May 6.
Story by U.S. Atlantic Fleet Public Affairs
                               -USN-
NNS140.  "Bombcats" Join the Fleet
ON BOARD USS SARATOGA (NNS) -- Two fighter squadrons embarked on
board USS Saratoga (CV 60) recently received the hardware necessary
to add the strike mission to the list of F-14B capabilities.
     Maintenance crews from Fighter Squadrons 74 and 103 installed
the bomb racks while the ship was inport Trieste, Italy.  
     The morning Saratoga sailed from its pierside berth, the first
"Bombcats" announced their arrival with authority, executing a 1700-
mile bombing mission to the Wadi Natrun Range in Egypt from
Saratoga's deck in the Northern Adriatic Sea.  Over the course of two
days, four missions were conducted and 27 aircraft delivered ordnance
on target and on time.
     The two squadrons have also carried out additional missions to
the Avgo Nisi Range in the Aegean Sea, and have demonstrated their
new capability during a visit by Commander, Naval Air Forces,
Atlantic Fleet.  
     The Navy's newest addition to the strike fighter family, the F-
14B has become another viable means of projecting power ashore at
long distance and high speed.
Story by NAVEUR News Service
                               -USN-
NNS141.  USS Belleau Wood (LHA 3) Arrives in Sasebo, Japan
SASEBO, Japan (NNS) -- The flagship of Amphibious Squadron 11, USS
Belleau Wood (LHA 3), arrived at its new homeport in Sasebo, Japan,
Sept. 30.
     A modern amphibious assault ship, Belleau Wood is capable of
conducting helicopter and AV-8B Harrier jet operations.  The ships's
relocation to Sasebo will improve the flexibility and effectiveness
of the Western Pacific amphibious force.  Belleau Wood joins tank
landing ship USS San Bernadino (LST 1189), amphibious assault cargo
ship USS St. Louis (LKA 116), and amphibious landing ship USS Dubuque
(LPD 8).
     The ship has a 930-member crew that substantially increased the
population of the small base.  Many base facilities have been
refurbished or rebuilt during the past two years in preparation for
Belleau Wood's arrival.  Additional housing has also been constructed
to accomodate 250 families that will follow Belleau Wood from its
former homeport in San Diego, Calif.
Story by U.S. Fleet Activities, Sasebo, Japan Public Affairs
                               -USN-
NNS142.  Civilian Healthcare Commission Recognizes Navy Medicine
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Naval Hospital San Diego, Calif., Naval Medical
Clinic (NMC)  Portsmouth, N.H., and its Branch Medical Clinic (BMC)
in Brunswick, Maine, were recently recognized by the independent
civilian Joint Commission on the Accreditation of Healthcare
Organizations (JCAHO).
     JCAHO, which evaluates health care services provided by most
hospitals in the U.S., recognized Naval Hospital San Diego with
accreditation.  NMC Portsmouth and BMC Brunswick received the highest
level of recognition given by JCAHO -- accreditation with
commendation.  This recognition comes just a month after the National
Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Md., received accreditation with
commendation.
     The JCAHO survey team inspected all aspects of hospital
operations, -- medical and administrative, and compared naval
facilities to optimal standards. 
     Technically, DoD hospitals are not required to achieve JCAHO
accreditation.  "When we comply with JCAHO standards, we can stand up
against any hospital in terms of continuous quality health care,"
said CDR Irene Foster, Naval Hospital San Diego's quality assessment
and improvement coordinator.
     Navy Surgeon General VADM Donald F. Hagen was extremely pleased
with the high level of health care provided by these facilities.  "I
think their records are ones that each of their health care providers
can be rightly proud of, and it shows our beneficiaries that they are
receiving outstanding health services that are second to none," he
said.
Story compiled from official press releases
                               -USN-
NNS143.  Cherry Point Breaks Ground for New Hospital
CHERRY POINT, N.C. (NNS) --  A ground-breaking ceremony was held
Sept. 9 at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS), Cherry Point, N.C., which
marked the start of construction of a replacement Naval Hospital.  
     The new facility will replace the old hospital, which was built
nearly 50 years ago as a family clinic.  Scheduled for completion in
1995, the new $34 million hospital will be a three-story, 201,806
square foot primary care facility. 
     The complex will support 22 medical/surgical beds, two operating
rooms, two delivery rooms, three birthing rooms, a 13-bed nursery
unit and 29 dental treatment rooms.  The hospital will have space for
command, administrative and additional support services for
outpatient care.
Story by Naval Hospital Cherry Point Public Affairs
                               -USN-    
NNS144.  Cecil Field Recognized For Conservation Efforts
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (NNS) -- Naval Air Station (NAS) Cecil Field
recently received the 1991 Secretary of the Navy Morale, Welfare and
Recreation Resource, Recovery and Recycling Award.
     Assistant Secretary of the Navy (Installations and Environment)
Jacqueline E. Schafer presented the award, which recognized NAS Cecil
Field's extensive conservation program.  NAS Cecil Field's personnel
were responsible for saving 7,500 trees; conserving more than 340,000
gallons of oil; saving more than 4.7 million kilowatt hours of
electricity; and reducing landfill space requirements by more than
1,500 cubic yards.
     Cecil Field's conservation activities had a humble beginning as
a small recycling program located in an old boat shed.  Today the
base has its own modern recycling center.
     According to Schafer, Cecil Field's conservation efforts are a
major quality of life issue.  "In a substantial way, the people and
the resource, recovery and recycling program at Naval Air Station
Cecil Field are making a difference to improve the quality of the
environment, of the command MWR program and of the total quality of
life here.  The proof is in the program," she said.
Story by NAS Cecil Field Public Affairs
                               -USN-
NNS145.  Military Sealift Command Ship Rescues Fishing Boat Crew
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Military Sealift Command's (MSC) fleet oiler USNS
Leroy Grumman (T-AO 195) rescued two crew members of a distressed
fishing vessel in storm-tossed waters near Jacksonville, Fla., in
late September.
     Weather conditions had been extremely poor when the Grumman
sighted the vessel "Captain Jake" in eight to 12-foot seas.  Due to
the shallow water and heavy seas, Grumman was unable to get any
closer than 1.7 nautical miles to the vessel, so the ship launched a
rigid hull inflatable boat (RHIB) with a crew of four to rescue the
crew members of the distressed fishing vessel.
     Within 30 minutes the Grumman rescue crew transferred "Captain
Jake's" personnel into the small rescue boat.
     The fishermen were examined by Grumman's medical officer and
found to be in good condition.  They were later transferred to Coast
Guard cutter USCGC Drummond for a return trip to Florida.  
     "The Coast Guard knows that our MSC ships stand ready to assist
people in distress whenever and wherever we can," said Commander,
Military Sealift Command, VADM Michael P. Kalleres.  "Grumman
demonstrated the kind of professionalism we have come to expect from
all of our MSC ships."
Story by Military Sealift Command 
                               -USN-
NNS146.  This Week in the Navy:  
October 10, 1944 -- It was on this day that aircraft from 17 U.S.
carriers bombed Okinawa and other islands in the Ryukyus.           
                               -USN-
         Personnel Notes
NNS147.  JOBS Program Helps Sailors Advance
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Sailors can advance their careers by taking
advantage of the Jobs Oriented Basic Skills (JOBS) program.
     JOBS provides training in six career fields, called strands. 
The program applies equally to men and women, and provides sailors
with prerequisite skill training for "A" school.
     An "A" school seat is guaranteed to JOBS program graduates in
their choice of ratings available through the program.  The length of
the JOBS school depends on the strand in which the sailor is
qualified.  The length of the "A" school depends on the training
required to qualify for a specific Navy rating.  The six strands in
the JOBS program can lead to 25 "A" schools.
     The available strands of "A" schools are:
     -- Engineering (BT/GSM/MM)
     -- Operations (OS/OTA/OTM/AW/STG)
     -- Administration (PN/SK/AK/DK/YN/AZ)
     -- Electronics (AT/AX/AQ/ET/FC/GM/EW)
     -- Electrical (EM/CE/IC)
     -- Navigation (QM)
     The JOBS program supports the Navy's Affirmative Action Program
and promotes upward mobility.  It invites sailors to broaden their
skills and learn new ones.  JOBS training also prepares young people
for success in Navy technical schools and the high-tech world by
enhancing education and eliminating skill deficiencies.
     In addition, the program has been recommended by the Navy
Women's Study Group as a viable tool to help integrate enlisted women
into careers now available to them in sea-intensive ratings, on ships
and in aviation squadrons.
     For more information on JOBS, contact your command career
counselor or call CWO4 J. O'Leary, Head, School Management Branch,
Bureau of Naval Personnel, (DSN) 223-1326 or (703) 693-1326. 
Story by BUPERS Public Affairs
                               -USN-
NNS148.  Selection Board Awards Subspecialties to 2,146 Officers
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The FY-92 Operations System Technology
Subspecialty Selection Board recently awarded 2,146 officers a
subspecialty designation in Operations System Technology.
     The board recommended unrestricted line officers from the rank
of lieutenant commander to captain to be designated as community
subspecialists or proven subspecialists in the Operations System
Technology skill areas.  The board considered the Anti-submarine
Warfare (XX44) and Operational Oceanography (XX49) skill areas.
     Board members looked for proven superior performance in the
subspecialty area, as well as recent and relevant experience. 
Community subspecialists either possess postgraduate education or
have completed experience tours in their subspecialty.
     For more information about the subspecialty board or to check
subspecialty status, contact the Professional Development and
Education Subspecialty Branch (PERS-440E), Bureau of Naval Personnel,
at (DSN) 224-3321 or (703) 614-3321.
Story by BUPERS Public Affairs
                              -USN-  
NNS149.  VSI/SSB Offered to Officers
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- For the first time, the Navy is offering
voluntary separation benefits to officers.
     Reserve and regular (excluding TAR) officers in paygrade O-4 who
have failed for selection to paygrade O-5 one or more times may apply
for either Voluntary Separation Incentives (VSI) or Special
Separation Benefits (SSB) programs.
     The two programs offer financial compensation and transition
assistance and are strictly voluntary programs, with no threat of
reduction-in-force for those who decide to stay in the service.
     Based on the recently passed FY-93 Defense Authorization Act,
service members electing VSI will now be entitled to the same
transition benefits as SSB takers.  Also, members opting for VSI will
be able to elect a partial or full offset of annual VSI payments if
any future active or reserve pay is received.  In addition, the bill
also allows VSI separatees to count military service toward Civil
Service retirement.
     Only 220 officer separations with VSI or SSB are authorized at
the present time.  Applications are due no later than Oct. 31, 1992,
and will be approved on a first come, first served basis. 
Applications above the 220 ceiling will be held for future
consideration, should the program expand in FY-93.
     Voluntary Separation Incentive is an amount equal to 2.5 percent
of annual base pay multiplied by the number of years of service, paid
upon separation from active duty and then on each separation
anniversary date for a period of time equal to twice the number of
years of active service.
     Special Separation Benefit is a one-time payment made at the
time of separation, equal to 15 percent of annual base pay multiplied
by years of service.  Certain transition assistance benefits and
requirements apply to each program.
     Officers selected for the programs will be notified of approval
by message.  For more details see NAVADMIN 159/92.
Story by BUPERS Public Affairs
                               -USN-
NNS150.  Philippines-Homeported Sailors Can Carry-Over Leave  
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Sailors who are or were previously assigned to
any command homeported in the Philippines during the withdrawal
period may now be eligible to carry-over more than 60 days of leave.
     All sailors attached to commands homeported in the Philippines
from Feb. 1, 1992 that have changed homeport by Sept. 30, 1992 are
eligible.  Additional criteria are:
     -- Commands originally based in the Philippines that changed
homeport between January 1992 and Sept. 30, 1992.
     -- Service members must have served on board the command during
the full period of Feb. 1, 1992 through Sept. 1, 1992.
     Point of contact for this program is LCDR Gary Smith, (DSN) 224-
5633 or (703) 614-5633.
Story by CINCPACFLT Public Affairs
                               -USN-
NNS151.  More Navy Officers Confirmed for Promotions
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Before recessing in October, the Senate confirmed
another 2,501 active duty and reserve Navy officers for promotion in
FY-93.
     This brings to 5,192 the total number of Navy officers confirmed
after certification that they have no connection to the 1991 Tailhook
Symposium or subsequent investigations by the Navy or the Defense
Department Inspector General.  This total represents over 85 percent
of FY-93 Navy officer promotions requiring confirmation.  
     Senate confirmation is required before officers can be promoted
to the grade of O-4 or above (O-5 in the reserves), and for certain
other personnel actions. 
     In May the leadership of the Senate Armed Services Committee
requested information on any connection between 1991 Tailhook
incidents or investigations on every Navy and Marine Corps officer
nomination submitted for Senate confirmation this year.  To clear as
many officers as possible for immediate confirmation, the Bureau of
Naval Personnel asked questions relating to the Tailhook Symposium of
each officer on FY-93 promotion lists.
     The additional officers confirmed for promotion will be listed
in forthcoming ALNAV messages.  Approximately 910 other Navy officers
still remain to be certified and confirmed by the Senate before they
can be promoted.  Some FY-93 promotions will be delayed as a result,
but BUPERS is using a process that will enable prompt restoration of
date-of-rank, seniority and back pay for officers later certified and
confirmed.  Details are in NAVADMIN 148/92 and subsequent NAVADMIN's.
Story by BUPERS Public Affairs
                               -USN-
         "Short Splices"
NNS152.  Editor's Note
This message follows NAVNEWS 047/92, DTG 022200Z Oct 92, and NAVNEWS
048/92, DTG 062200Z Oct 92.
     NNS 047/92 contained the following stories:
NNS128.  USS Saratoga Missiles Inadvertently Strike Turkish Ship
NNS129.  F/A-18 Strike Fighter Crashes at PAX River AW Center
     NNS 048/92 contained the following story:
NNS130.  "...From the Sea" -- The Complete Text
     Our policy is to release news when it is news.  An informed
sailor is a smarter sailor.
                               -USN-
NNS153.  Flag Announcement
     Secretary of Defense Dick Cheney recently announced the
President has nominated VADM David M. Bennett for reappointment to
the grade of vice admiral and assignment as Inspector General,
Department of the Navy.  Bennett is currently serving as Commander,
Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet, San Diego, Calif.       
                               -USN-
NNS154.  Navy News This Week 
     The Oct. 7, 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:  John F.
Kennedy Battle Group deploys to the Med; USS Newport is
decommissioned; Navy christens fast attack submarine USS Charlotte;
USS L. Y. Spear celebrates 25th anniversary; Navy opens two new
Public Work Centers; White Paper outlines Navy's future direction;
Defense authorization bill changes summarized; U.S. Navy units
provide assistance to damaged Turkish destroyer; Display
Determination '92 unites different countries in training; Navy
deactivates Naval Station Subic Bay; Actress Audrey Hepburn visits
USS Tarawa off Africa's coast; Navy offers voluntary separation
programs for FY-93; Navy Enlisted Selected Early Retirement Board
results discussed; RAPE PREVENTION PART 2:  Reducing risk of rape by
a stranger; How IRA's could earn you a million dollars for
retirement.
     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-