Bahrain Desert Times (499) - July 2023

Local National Excels at Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Unit

Mr. Ali Almudaweb is a Bahraini national who has been working as a dental hygienist at Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Unit Bahrain for over 6 months. He may be one of the first faces you see when you walk in for a dental appointment here on base.

From his confidence and occupational knowledge, one might assume he was born for this job. However, his interests are quiet a bit more varied than they would appear at first glance.

“So I am interested in two things; I'm interested in both dentistry and horses,” said Ali.

Ali comes from a large family; he is the oldest out of four children, he has three younger sisters, but is the first dental hygienist in his family. Mr. Ali was drawn to the occupation through a personal passion for dentistry stemming from his core beliefs.

“I believe that your mouth is the first entrance for everything, every bad and good thing. So we have to watch it. We have to be careful with it.”

As a dental hygienist

Mr. Ali conducts teeth cleaning, polishing, fluoride application and teeth whitening. These are tasks he preforms with pride, as his work is immediately noticeable and helps all of his patients be their best.

He said that he sees patients who come in with

stained teeth, who become shy and avoid showing their teeth while smiling due to the stains. After undergoing Mr. Ali’s cleanings they’re more confident and are ready to smile more thanks to his hard work.

Mr. Ali described his interview process, he

FASCENT CONDUCTS JOINT CQB TRAINING

Prevents Iran from Seizing Two Merchant Tankers in Gulf

Oman

Earlier this week, Marines assigned to Fleet Anti-terrorism Security Team Company Central facilitated a Close-Quarters Battle Subject Matter Expert Exchange with Sailors and Soldiers aboard Naval Support Activity Bahrain. U.S. Coast Guard Patrol Forces Southwest Asia Maritime Engagement Team hosted the exchange in their “shipin-the-box” training facility aboard the installation.

U.S Navy Sailors assigned to Naval Security Force Bahrain, and U.S. Army Soldiers assigned to Task Force Blackjack, U.S. Army Central Command’s Crisis Response Task Force worked together with FASTCENT Marines to individually display how different obstacles encountered in a CQB environment can be overcome.

The SMEE allowed for the service members to share tactics, techniques, and procedures while

increasing interoperability amongst units. The units present at the training have worked together operationally and may work together in the future in response to real-world crises within the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility.

The training began with the fundamentals of CQB, including individual movement, identifying interior terrain, door procedures,

and room entry. It further progressed to more advanced concepts such as room clearing, hallway procedures, stairwells, opposing danger areas and detainee procedures and scenarios.

The exercise culminated in a force-on-force scenario-based final exercise that required personnel to problem solve utilizing best practices and methods learned over a three-day period.

"Overall, this SMEE is important due to interoperability between different units but also to allow personnel to foster a learning environment that increases mutual proficiency in the profession of arms, and garners confidence from each team in its adjacent units,” said Capt. Rico Rodriguez, a FASTCENT Platoon Commander. "We are now more able to mutually support one another as Americans serving in the CENTCOM region."

FASTCENT’s mission is to provide rapid response expeditionary anti-terrorism and security forces in order to protect vital naval and national assets, and to conduct other limited duration contingency operations as directed in support of U.S. Central Command. FASTCENT Marines are trained to deploy tactical forces, conduct antiterrorism operations, conduct ground security operations, and conduct embassy reinforcement.

101 Days of Summer Campaign

Celebrating the start of its 101 Days of Summer Campaign, Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain Safety and Occupational Health Department hosted a Summer Safety and Health Fair on 14th May 14th, 2023 from 0900 to 1300. Attracting over 1000 individuals, the event was a success, showcasing more than 30 booths on a wide range of topics. The objective was to promote safety and wellbeing, particularly with regards to the summer season. This fair was part of NSA Bahrain's Summer Safety initiative, which is devoted to safeguarding military, civilian personnel, and their families during the hotter months.

The fair, held at the Multi-Purpose Room (MPR), provided a vibrant platform for local hospitals and organizations to share valuable information and resources with attendees, raising awareness about various health and safety concerns. Alongside the booths dedicated to summer safety, several other key booths were present, each addressing important aspects of well-being and safety.

Promoting safety awareness was a primary emphasis at the fair, and the Safety and Occupational Department (Safety Department) hosted a booth dedicated to general safety. Valuable information regarding workplace and personal safety was provided. Attendees gained knowledge on preventing accidents and injuries in various settings, giving them the tools to create a safer environment for themselves and those close to them. This booth truly enhanced overall safety awareness.

Motorcycle safety was another crucial aspect highlighted at the fair. A booth specifically focused on motorcycle safety provided attendees with valuable information on proper helmet usage, defensive riding techniques, motorcycle maintenance, and the importance of following traffic laws. Experts in motorcycle safety engaged with participants, addressing their queries and emphasizing the significance of responsible riding habits.

The booths dedicated to summer safety attracted significant attention, as attendees sought valuable tips and advice to enjoy the summer months safely. Medical professionals from the Navy Medicine Readiness Training Unit (NMRTU) Bahrain as well as local hospitals such as American Mission Hospital and Royal Bahrain Hospital were present to provide guidance. Attendees had the opportunity to undergo blood sugar tests and have their blood pressure checked at dedicated booths. These screenings allowed individuals to assess their health status and gain insights into potential risk factors. Medical professionals were present to provide guidance and recommendations based on the results, emphasizing the importance of preventive care and early detection of health conditions.

Safety gear was given away at the bicycle safety booth, making it a definite fair standout. People learned a lot about bicycle safety there and even had the extra incentive of being entered into a raffle to win some gear, such as helmets and lights. The interactive nature of the booth was quite the attraction and ensured that attendees got all the crucial safety information they needed. By distributing helmets and lights, the booth aimed to ensure that cyclists had the necessary protective gear to enhance their safety on the roads. Mr. Ayala Ciriaco and PO3 Jonathan Nye, experts in bicycle safety were available at the booth to

engage with participants, addressing their questions and concerns. They provided guidance on proper helmet fitting, discussed the significance of using lights and reflectors for visibility, and emphasized the importance of following traffic rules and using hand signals while cycling. This booth served as a valuable resource for both seasoned cyclists and those new to biking, promoting safe practices and encouraging the adoption of responsible habits.

The Fire Prevention booth highlighted essential fire safety measures, including fire evacuation procedures, and the importance of smoke detectors and fire extinguishers. Fire Prevention Inspectors offered practical advice and demonstrations on fire prevention and response, ensuring attendees were equipped with the knowledge to protect themselves and their families from fire hazards.

Mental health hosted a booths (by Fleet and Family Support Center & Chaplain, NSA Bahrain) dedicated to promoting emotional well-being and providing resources for stress management. Mental health professionals were available to engage in confidential discussions, offer guidance on maintaining good mental health, and provide information on available support services. The booth aimed to reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues and encourage open conversations about emotional wellbeing.

The United States Embassy provided consular services via their booth, which was quite popular with attendees. Their presence provided convenience to the installation personnel vice the usual process of visiting the embassy in person.

Recreation safety was another critical focus at the fair. Booths provided information on safe practices during outdoor activities. Attendees learned about proper equipment usage, preparation for emergencies, and how to stay safe while enjoying recreational pursuits. The booth aimed to instill a culture of safety-consciousness among personnel and their families during their leisure time.

During the fair, attendees were privileged to have a booth dedicated to promoting road safety by the General Directorate of Traffic, Ministry of Interior, Kingdom of Bahrain. Expert opinions were freely shared on topics ranging from traffic regulations, the significance of following speed limits, and impact of drug or alcohol abuse on driving. Adequate guidance was provided to ensure that everyone present at the fair was armed with ample knowledge to responsibly navigate the roads during summer.

The fair also featured the participation of esteemed organizations dedicated to supporting service members and their families. The Wounded Warrior Project had a booth, offering resources and assistance to injured veterans and their families. The Fleet and Family Service Center provided information on various support services, including financial counseling, deployment support, and family

advocacy programs.

Attendees also had the opportunity to learn about the importance of pet safety and veterinary services through a booth dedicated to veterinary care by NSA Bahrain Veterinary Services. Experts shared tips on responsible pet ownership, preventive healthcare for animals, and offered information on available veterinary services within the community.

Other entities that took part in this event are Drug and Alcohol Advisor (DAPA), Sexual Assault & Prevention (SAPR), Emergency Management Officer (EMO), NSA Bahrain Ombudsman, Navy Federal Credit Union (NFCU), NavyMarine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS).

The collaborative efforts of the Safety and Occupational Department (NSA Safety Department), local hospitals, and various organizations contributed to the fair's success in promoting safety and well-being. By uniting these stakeholders and providing a diverse range of booths, the event created a comprehensive and interactive experience, ensuring attendees had access to vital information across multiple domains of health and safety.

Commander Ernesto Rivera, Executive Officer of NSA Bahrain, expressed his satisfaction with the fair's success and the inclusion of summer safety topics. He stated, "The Safety and Health Fair served as a fantastic opportunity to educate and empower our personnel to make informed decisions when it comes to their well-being, especially during the summer months. By addressing summer safety, we aim to ensure that individuals can enjoy this season to the fullest while minimizing risks and staying healthy."

The reach of the Safety and Health Fair exceeded beyond those who attended. Participants will share their newfound knowledge and heightened awareness with acquaintances and loved ones. A component of the Naval Safety Command's 101 Days of Summer Campaign, the fair was a noteworthy tool in empowering naval personnel and their families to maintain safety and health this summer.

Expressing his satisfaction and enthusiasm with the safety and health fair, the coordinator, Prasanth Dharmaraj, Safety Specialist, shared his thoughts on the event. "Witnessing the level of turnout and engagement at the fair has made us thrilled," Prasanth Dharmaraj stated. "Our goal was to create a platform that would promote safety and well-being among personnel and their families that would be interactive and informative. It was truly inspiring to witness over 1000 attendees actively participating in the booths and engaging with the experts."

The Safety Department plans to build on this success and continue organizing similar initiatives in the future. By leveraging the effectiveness of events like the Safety and Health Fair, they aim to foster a culture of safety, promote overall well-being, and ensure the community remains resilient and prepared during the summer months and beyond.

Combined Task Force 151 Staff Visit Japanese Navy Ship

Multinational staff from a Combined Maritime Forces task force focused on deterring piracy visited a Japanese warship to meet the crew while the ship was pierside in Bahrain, July 2.

Personnel from Combined Task Force (CTF) 151 were welcomed aboard Japanese destroyer JS Ikazuchi (DD 107) during the ship’s scheduled stop in Bahrain, where Combined Maritime Forces is headquartered. The task force staff briefed crewmembers on multilateral counter-piracy efforts across the region.

“It is good to see so many nations actively involved in suppressing piracy

throughout our area of operations ensuring the high seas remain free from piracy,” said Republic of Korea Navy Rear Adm. Ko Seungbum, the task force commander.

Ikazuchi is operating in the Middle East to support regional counter-piracy patrols.

Established in 2009, CTF 151 conducts maritime security operations to deter, disrupt and suppress piracy and armed robbery at sea, outside the Horn of Africa. The task force consists of 30 staff who regularly collaborate with more than 19 countries on the counter-piracy mission throughout the region.

Local National Excels at Navy Medicine

Readiness and Training Unit

stated that there were a lot of applicants and he’s proud that he was the one that was hired. This is no small feat as these positions can be highly competitive.

“Actually I want to be honest, when I entered this field I was very, very normal. It's okay, I'm studying. But while you are studying, you are working, and you see how the science is developed, how you can change.”

When he isn’t cleaning teeth, Ali has quite an interesting hobby that one may not expect out of a dental hygienist.

“So let me talk about horses because it is my hobby,” he said.

Mr. Ali owns two of his very own horses and at the time of the interview was expecting a new foal. Mr. Ali enjoys riding his horses in his free time and claims anytime he has extra time on his hands, you can find him riding his horses.

Ali expressed his gratitude for the opportunities he’s been given in this field and looks forward to spreading more dental health awareness as his number one goal.

“Yeah, so I just want to say, thanks to everybody in my department. All of them. I'm so proud to be a member of this wonderful family. I really love all of them.”

U.S. Prevents Iran from Seizing Two Merchant Tankers in Gulf of Oman

On July 5, U.S. forces prevented two attempted commercial tanker seizures by the Iranian Navy after the Iranians had opened fire in one of the incidents near the coast of Oman.

Both of these incidents occurred in international waters.

At 1 a.m. local time, one Iranian naval vessel approached the Marshall Islands-flagged oil tanker TRF Moss in international waters in the Gulf of Oman.

The Iranian vessel departed the scene when U.S. Navy guided-missile destroyer USS McFaul (DDG 74) arrived on station. Additionally, the U.S. Navy deployed surveillance assets, including MQ-9 Reaper and P-8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft.

Approximately three hours later, the U.S. Navy received a distress call from Bahamianflagged oil tanker Richmond Voyager while the ship was more than 20 miles off the coast of Muscat, Oman, and transiting international waters toward the Arabian Sea. Another Iranian naval vessel had closed within one mile of Richmond Voyager while hailing the commercial tanker to stop. McFaul directed course toward Richmond Voyager at maximum speed as the merchant tanker continued its transit. Prior to McFaul’s arrival on scene, Iranian personnel fired multiple, long bursts from both small arms

and crew-served weapons. Richmond Voyager sustained no casualties or significant damage. However, several rounds hit the ship’s hull near crew living spaces. The Iranian navy vessel departed when McFaul arrived.

In May, the United States increased the rotation of ships and aircraft patrolling the Strait of Hormuz with partners following an uptick in Iranian merchant vessel seizures. The increased force presence supports multinational efforts under the International Maritime Security Construct and bilaterally with partner nations to deter threats to commercial shipping and reassure regional mariners.

“I couldn’t be prouder of the entire [U.S. Naval Forces Central Command] team, especially the exceptional effort by the McFaul crew, for immediately responding and preventing another seizure,” said Vice Adm. Brad Cooper, commander of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command, U.S. 5th Fleet and Combined Maritime Forces. “We remain vigilant and ready to protect navigational rights in these critical waters.”

Since 2021, Iran has harassed, attacked or seized nearly 20 internationally flagged merchant vessels, presenting a clear threat to regional maritime security and the global economy.

U.S. Hosts Two Major Multilateral Maritime Engagement Forums in Middle East

NAVCENT Public Affairs

The United States hosted two major multilateral meetings on maritime security with regional partners in Bahrain, June 25-26, involving nearly 200 participants who discussed opportunities for enhancing collaboration at sea.

U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) hosted a two-day multilateral maritime security meeting for 90 senior military officers and diplomats from 22 nations as well as senior representatives from the Gulf Cooperation Council at the U.S. Navy base in Bahrain. Officials discussed the current maritime security environment and ways to further enhance maritime security in the region, according to a joint statement released June 26.

“Participants reiterated commitment to uphold navigational rights and operate consistent with international law, as well as pursue collective efforts to prevent threats to vessels traveling through regional waterways that are critical to international trade and the global economy,” the statement read.

Separately, NAVCENT’s naval amphibious task force, Task Force 51/5th Marine Expeditionary Brigade, hosted a multilateral maritime engagement conference in Bahrain for the second time this year, with 100 international staff officers from 10 nations. Representatives from Bahrain, France, Jordan, Kuwait, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, United

Kingdom, and United States held discussions to identify future collaborative training opportunities across the Middle East.

“One of the best ways to remain ready to respond to a contingency is to listen to and work with our partners,” said U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Matthew S. Reid, the Task Force 51/5th Marine Expeditionary Brigade commander. “Understanding their security challenges and learning how we can best integrate with them during a crisis or contingency response – especially one that occurs in an amphibious domain – is important.”

Conference participants conducted a series of briefs and breakout sessions on air, ground and maritime operations,

continuing discussions last held in January. Participants also toured RFA Cardigan Bay (L3009), a United Kingdom Royal Navy landing-ship dock, while the ship was pierside in Bahrain.

In addition to the UK’s regional maritime forces, Bahrain hosts the headquarters for NAVCENT and two major multinational naval partnerships, Combined Maritime Forces and the International Maritime Security Construct. Combined Maritime Forces includes 38 nations that form the world’s largest military partnership at sea. The International Maritime Security Construct is an 11-nation coalition that focuses on maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandeb.

439-4520

www.cnic.navy.mil/bahrain

Commanding Officer

Naval Support Activity Bahrain

Capt. William Lane

NSA Bahrain Executive Officer

Cmdr. Ernesto Rivera

Public Affairs Officer

Chief Editor

Lt. Nicolas Mahone

Mark C. Mosher

Mass Communication Specialist

1st Class Sean Gallagher

Host Nation Public Affairs Director

Ameera Al-Kooheji

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SUMMER TIME, SUMMER MEMORIES AND VBS

Most students, teachers and parents can’t wait for summer. It’s a time of transition for some as they move from the next grade or school to another. For some, it is the end of a stage in life celebrated with graduations or the start of a new job and trips that have been planned all year. Its summer time, the opportunity to make memories at summer camps, visiting relatives and taking trips, or just finding your spot or place where you have lots of fun which become lasting memories. For me, as a teenager, they were my summer jobs, when I was old enough to get my working papers and Vacation Bible School (VBS).

So, this year, 11-15 June, the NSA Bahrain Command Religious Team continued to help make summer memories with our annual VBS. The fifty registered Elementary and Middle School children and volunteers gathered at various locations through the base starting at building 100 under the theme, “Twist and Turns” Psalms 25:4., where they engaged in activities such as singing (Praise and Worship), Bible Study, Missions, Crafts Arts and Music, P.E. and Recreation as well as being treated to Breakfast and Lunch.

Some of the highlights of Vacation Bible School were the games that were played in P.E. and Recreation, such as red light- green light, racing and basketball. The highpoint was the “Bible Scholars Challenge”, which encouraged the children to learn the 66 Books of the Bible, Ten Commandments and the Lord’s Prayer. There were several winners that won some great gifts in each category of the Bible Scholars Challenge.

It is the start of summer for all the children who attended VBS at NSA Bahrain. According to Mrs. Wanda Connor, “All the children had an enjoyable week of learning about God and helping with missions, making beautiful Arts and Crafts, building relationships and playing games with friends in P.E. and recreation. This summer some children made new friends, while VBS attendees found their voice and courage to stand up to express themselves in front of peers, families and others through public speaking. These children made memories through their relationship with classmates, teachers and God, which cultivates the foundation for life beyond this summer and VBS. They learned how to use art to share, see, feel, and think as a reflection of themselves and the divine. VBS classes gave them the opportunity to build on teamwork, work under pressure, the courage to try something new, and to have fun. Other students of VBS build on their fundamentals of reading and writing as well as the leadership while figuring out how and what do for their presentation and the challenges. VBS this summer time, though early made some memories of how to trust God to manage the “twist and turns” of their young life by putting God first. Like them, these memories have shaped some of us and continue to make us the men and women we are. Let these summer time memories through our VBS children renew our resolve to look to our faith and to God through the twist and turns of life challenges with peace and blessings always!

Special thanks to Mrs. Wanda Connor, the Protestant Denomination Director of Religious Education and all the volunteers (Patsy Bell, Devoya Morris, Janice Johnson, Melissa Gomes, Sarah Peters, Aurelia Kone’, Yoonsun Choe, LaTonya Groves, Nyssia Stokes, Larry Ward, Mr. Kone’, C’Erika Williams, Ms. Alice Dyson and Ms. Beverly Woods).

New MOVIES at the MWR Cinema

Elemental (PG) – 1h 49m

In a city where fire, water, land, and air residents live together, a fiery young woman and a go-with-the-flow guy discover something elemental: how much they actually have in common. | Cast: Leah Lewis, Mamoudou Athie, Catherine O'Hara, Wendi McLendon-Covey

About My Father (PG-13) – 1h 30m

Encouraged by his fiancee, a man and his father spend the weekend with her wealthy and exceedingly eccentric family. The gathering soon develops into a culture clash, allowing father and son to discover the true meaning of family. | Cast: Sebastian Maniscalco, Robert De Niro, Leslie Bibb, Kim Cattrall

Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny (PG-13) – 2h 34m

Daredevil archaeologist Indiana Jones races against time to retrieve a legendary dial that can change the course of history. Accompanied by his goddaughter, he soon finds himself squaring off against Jürgen Voller, a former Nazi who works for NASA. | Cast: Harrison Ford, Mads Mikkelsen, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Antonio Banderas

Ruby Gillman, Teenage Kraken (PG) – 1h 30m

Ruby Gillman is a sweet and awkward high school student who discovers she's a direct descendant of the warrior kraken queens. The kraken are sworn to protect the oceans of the world against the vain, power-hungry mermaids. Destined to inherit the throne from her commanding grandmother, Ruby must use her newfound powers to protect those she loves most. | Cast: Lana Condor, Annie Murphy, Jane Fonda, Liza Koshy

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