VOLUME 19, NUMBER 506
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY BAHRAIN
October 18, 2023
BREAKING THE SILENCE: THE HIDDEN SCOURGE OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE IN MILITARY FAMILIES By Gerald D. Bridgers, NAVSUP FLC As October unfolds in Bahrain, the days grow shorter and the nights cooler, signaling a subtle seasonal shift. This month serves as a poignant reminder of an issue that remains, tragically, evergreen. October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month—a time for reflection and action. It's a month that calls us to confront an issue often shrouded in secrecy, stigmatized by society, and exacerbated by silence. Domestic violence is not an isolated problem; it's a pervasive epidemic that infiltrates even the most disciplined and structured communities, including our military families, Department of Defense (DOD) civilians, and their loved ones. A Personal Account: The Echoes of Childhood Trauma I am personally aware of the devastating impact of domestic violence firsthand. As a child witness to such abuse, I carry the emotional scars that serve as a haunting reminder of how deeply domestic violence can affect individuals and communities. "The trauma doesn't just fade away; it reverberates through families, leaving emotional wounds that can take a lifetime to heal; it shapes how you view relationships, trust, and even your sense of self."
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U.S. 5th Fleet Enhances Middle East Maritime Security with Unmanned Capabilities
U.S. Iraq and Kuwait
Up Successful 3 Wrap Trilateral Exercise
6 Civilian in the Spotlight 6 - Cinema & Safety
The Military Dimension: A Unique Set of Challenges In military families, the issue of domestic violence takes on additional layers of complexity. The unique stresses associated with military life—such as deployments, the uncertainty of active duty, and frequent relocations— can exacerbate existing tensions and contribute to a
vicious cycle of abuse. The impact is not only on the immediate family but also on unit cohesion and mission readiness, making it a matter of national security. Resources for Help: A Beacon in the Darkness For those entangled in the web of domestic violence, help is available both on and off the base. The Family Advocacy Program (FAP) is a lifeline, offering services from counseling to emergency shelters. These resources are not just stopgap measures; they are vital tools for breaking the cycle of abuse and offering victims a path toward healing and empowerment. Community Responsibility: It Takes a Village Tackling domestic violence is a collective responsibility. It's not enough to place the onus solely on the victims or the perpetrators. As military and DOD civilian community members, we all have a role to play. Whether recognizing the signs of abuse in a colleague or offering a listening ear to a friend, our actions can make a difference. Silence is collaboration, and it's high time we spoke up. Conclusion: A Call to Arms As we commemorate Domestic Violence Awareness Month, let us not merely pay lip service to the issue. Let's commit to tangible actions that break the silence and shatter the cycle of abuse. It's not just about raising awareness; it's about catalyzing change within our military community and in the broader tapestry of society.
Keeping Our People Safe: Vehicle Parking Regulations By Asif B. Thaj, Deputy Safety Director As NSA Bahrain evolves, it's essential that we ALL do our part to ensure the safety and accessibility of our surroundings. One crucial aspect is responsible (and legal) vehicle parking. Whether you drive a car, truck, low-speed vehicle (LSV), ride a bicycle, or hop on an e-scooter, it's vital to park only in designated areas and respect the rules designed to protect pedestrians and emergency access routes. Designated Parking Areas NSA Bahrain provides designated parking areas, as space allows, for all types of vehicles within the fence lines. If you drive a car or truck, use the parking lots provided. For LSVs, bicycles, and e-scooters, designated parking spots and racks are available to keep our walkways clear and orderly. Unauthorized Parking Near Building 213 A recurring issue that needs addressing is the walkway leading to Building 213, the “WalkIn Gate. Unauthorized parking along that walkway has been forcing pedestrians at that busy intersection to walk in the road. It also disrupts the flow of vehicles traveling through the area.
New RULES In response to this ongoing hazard, new "NO PARKING" signs have been installed along the walkway in front of Building 213. These signs are strategically placed to clearly indicate areas where parking is strictly prohibited. Unauthorized parking in these zones will result in parking violation tickets and a visit to traffic court. Respect the Rules and Signage These signs, as with all traffic signage are NOT suggestions. We urge all personnel to respect the rules and signage in place. Unauthorized parking poses a risk to pedestrians and to emergency response teams needing access in case of emergencies. Stay Informed and Educate Others Awareness is key to maintaining good order and safety on our installation. Familiarize yourself with the parking regulations, especially in congested and busy areas like Building 213, and encourage your colleagues and friends to do the same. We can keep our installation a safe and welcoming place for everyone, by working together.
Report Violations If you come across any unauthorized parking, please report it to the appropriate authorities Naval Secuity Force (NSF) Bahrain – Law Enforcement (LE) Desk at Defense Switched Network (DSN) 439-3767 or (cellphone) 17853767 immediately. Reporting violations promptly ensures that corrective action can be taken and helps maintain safety and accessibility. This is an “everyone” problem. Let's adhere to the designated parking areas and rules outlined above, especially in the areas marked with "NO PARKING" signs. By doing so, we can address this issue and keep our installation safe, accessible, and enjoyable for all. Your cooperation and commitment to safety can make a significant difference. Thank you for your continued support.
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U.S. 5th Fleet Enhances Middle East Maritime Security with Unmanned Capabilities By NAVCENT Public Affairs Last month, naval forces in the Middle East region successfully integrated unmanned platforms with traditionally crewed ships and aircraft to conduct enhanced maritime security operations in the waters surrounding the Arabian Peninsula. Seven task forces falling under U.S. 5th Fleet integrated 12 different unmanned platforms with manned ships for “mannedunmanned teaming” operations, tracking Iranian Navy and Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy (IRGCN) ships and small boats over several days during routine patrols in and around the Strait of Hormuz. This operation bolstered presence in and around a critical chokepoint that in recent months has seen Iran unlawfully seize internationally flagged merchant ships. Unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs), unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) were involved in the operation. “We have been operating UAVs and UUVs in the region for years,” said Capt. Joe Baggett, Director of Maritime Operations for U.S. Naval Forces Central Command and U.S. 5th Fleet. “Adding our new USVs, and then integrating all of these platforms into fleet operations, is how we expect to fly and sail well into the future.” Sailors, Marines, Coast Guardsmen, ships and aircraft from Task Force 51/5
(Amphibious/Marine), Task Force 52 (Mine Countermeasures), Task Force 53 (Logistics), Task Force 55 (Surface Warfare), Task Force 56 (Expeditionary), Task Force 57 (Patrol/ Reconnaissance) and Task Force 59 (Unmanned/Artificial Intelligence) conducted the operations. “The integration of new, multidomain unmanned platforms into routine fleet operations provides more ‘eyes on the water,’ enhancing maritime domain awareness and
increasing deterrence in the region,” said Vice Adm. Brad Cooper, Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command and U.S. 5th Fleet. Cooper added that collectively, these platforms support the safe navigation and free flow of commerce through vital regional chokepoints, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz. “This enhanced maritime security serves as a deterrent against malign activity and
strengthens regional stability, which is good for everybody,” he said. U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/U.S. 5th Fleet’s area of operations encompasses about 2.5 million square miles of water area and includes the Arabian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden, Arabian Sea and parts of the Indian Ocean. This expanse, comprising 21 nations, includes three critical choke points at the Strait of Hormuz, the Suez Canal and the Strait of Bab al Mandeb.
Energy Awareness: A Crucial Step towards Sustainability By Joel Mathew, NSA Bahrain Installation Energy Manager Building a Sustainable Future through Energy Awareness As the calendar flips to October, we're not only embracing end of summer but also welcoming Energy Awareness Month, an annual tradition aimed at underlining the crucial role of energy in our lives and our collective responsibility towards a more sustainable and energy-efficient world. What is Energy Awareness Month? Established by the U.S Department of Energy, Energy Awareness Month calls for us to reflect on our energy consumption patterns, recognize the environmental impact, and make conscious choices that help us transition towards a greener lifestyle. Given the urgency of climate change, the commitment to Energy Awareness Month is now more relevant than ever.
Understanding the Energy Picture Today's modern life relies heavily on energy - from powering our homes and vehicles to supporting industries and infrastructures. However, our carbon-based energy systems have led to escalating CO2 emissions, radically contributing to global warming. That's why the pursuit of energy efficiency, renewable energy, and sustainable practices is essential. Efficiency: The First Step towards Change The first step in our commitment towards a sustainable future is efficiency. Energy-efficient choices such as LED lighting, high-efficiency appliances, and optimized HVAC systems can drastically reduce energy demand, cut costs, and reduce our carbon footprint. Most importantly, energy efficiency isn't limited to technology. Each one of us can practice energy-saving behaviors – turning off lights when not in use, reducing air
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conditioning or heating when feasible, or choosing public transport or carpooling to cut down individual emissions. Being in the Middle East means one of the easiest way of attaining better energy savings is to incorporate smarter cooling solutions. Getting Involved With a plethora of online resources, webinars, and community-led initiatives, getting involved in Energy Awareness Month is easy and impactful. • Learn: Use this month to educate yourself and others about energy sources, consumption, and conservation. Numerous online platforms provide insightful resources that simplify energyrelated concepts. • Audit: Perform a simple energy audit at home or hire professionals to understand your energy consumption pattern and identify opportunities to save energy. • Act: Make energy-efficient choices. This
could include investing in energyefficient appliances, retrofitting your home for energy efficiency, or switching to renewable energy sources wherever possible. Even simple actions like unplugging unused devices, properly insulating your homes, or choosing energy-efficient vehicles can make a significant difference. As we celebrate Energy Awareness Month this October, let's remember that every watt saved aids in the fight against climate change. Let’s empower ourselves with knowledge and take collective steps towards a future where our energy needs are met in harmony with our earth's wellbeing. If you would like more information or want to discuss energy efficiency in your workspace, feel free to contact the Installation Energy Manager, Mr. Joel Mathew – joel.g.mathew2.ln@us.navy.mil
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U.S. Iraq and Kuwait Wrap Up Successful Trilateral Exercise By NAVCENT Public Affairs Maritime forces from Iraq, Kuwait and the United States completed a two-day trilateral exercise focusing on counter-piracy and maritime security in the Northern Arabian Gulf, Oct. 3. The Sentinel-class U.S. Coast Guard fast response cutters USCGC Robert Goldman (WPC 1142) and USCGC Clarence Sutphin Jr. (WPC 1146) teamed with Kuwait Coast Guard fast patrol boat Wadhah (P 316), Kuwait Coast Guard speed boat (400), Kuwait Navy supply ship KNS Al-dorrar, Kuwait Navy patrol boat KNS Failaka, Kuwait Navy coastal patrol boat KNS Bateel 3 and KNS Bateel 4, a Kuwait helicopter, Iraq Navy patrol boat PB-307 and Iraq Navy patrol boat PB-310 to conduct joint patrols focused on visit, board, search, and seizure (VBSS) procedures, small boat operations, fishermen safety, and communication equipment checks, among many maritime security concerns. This exercise builds upon previous VBSS engagement training by introducing simulated target vessels, increased VBSS drill repetitions and, as a first, conducting VBSS exercises aboard Kuwaiti ships. Six years ago, the trilateral exercise concept was driven by the three partner nations’ desire to cooperatively address maritime security concerns in the Arabian Gulf. Since that time, the exercises have grown in complexity and are more focused on regional needs. “Part of what makes this exercise valuable is the ability to take advantage of the wide breadth of knowledge, experience and VBSS tactics together,” said Lt. Hunter Stowes, Goldman’s commanding officer. "Exercises like this continues to strengthen our regional partnerships, maintain and improve upon our ability to integrate seamlessly with our allies and improve our skill sets in the maritime domain.” “Kuwaiti naval forces cooperate and coordinate with regional navies to ensure maritime security in the Northern Arabian Gulf,” said Major Gen. Haza AlAlati, Commander Kuwait Naval Force. “Our exercises, working alongside U.S. 5th Fleet, Kuwait and Iraq Navies, ensure the security and safety of the fisherman in the international waters in the Northern Arabian Gulf,” said Major Gen. Talal Almuwanes,
Commander Kuwait Coast Guard. “The aim of this exercise is to enhance skills, develop training capabilities, maintain preparedness and readiness, exchange experiences between the participating forces, and strengthen international relations within the framework of cooperation and coordination for joint action,” said Major Gen. Laith Abdul Sattar Abdul Jabbar, Iraq Um Qaser Naval Base commander. Vice Adm. Brad Cooper, Commander U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/U.S. 5th Fleet, said the exercises demonstrate the flexibility of regional forces to adapt to changing environments. “With this latest iteration, we are continuing to advance interoperability at sea,” he said. “It’s an honor
to continue this series of exercises with our Kuwaiti and Iraqi friends. This trilateral exercise proves once again that when we work together we achieve so much more. Maritime security in the Northern Arabian Gulf is critical to regional maritime security, reinforcing the value and importance of these exercises with Kuwait and Iraq.” U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/U.S. 5th Fleet's area of operations (AOO) encompasses about 2.5 million square miles of water area and includes the Arabian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden, Arabian Sea and parts of the Indian Ocean. This expanse, comprised of 21 nations, includes three critical choke points at the Strait of Hormuz, the Suez Canal and the Strait of Bab al Mandeb.
General Says Middle East is a Theater for Strategic Competition By Jim Garamone , DOD News Although deterring Iran and defeating extremist groups in the Middle East are priorities for U.S. Central Command, the region is also "fertile ground for strategic competition with China and Russia," said Lt. Gen. Alexus Grynkewich, the commander of Air Forces Central, and Combined Forces Air Component Commander, U.S. Central Command. The Middle East is important to China, the general told the Defense Writers' Group today. The rising power gets about 50 percent of its oil and about a third of its natural gas from the Persian Gulf region. The Gulf hydrocarbons are fueling China's rise. China is trying to "displace" U.S. influence in the Middle East, he said. Right now, the Chinese are primarily working to supplant the United States through economic means and through the Belt and Road Initiative – the Chinese program to finance infrastructure projects that often come with hidden costs to debtor nations. "What I think is a reasonable assertion, though, is that where economic interests start, military interests will follow to protect those economic interests," Grynkewich said. "Over time, … there is a risk of Chinese expansion into the region militarily." Growing Chinese influence would have effects on U.S. access, basing and overflight
in the region. "That could be critical, not just for things that happen in the Middle East, but things that would happen in the Indo-Pacific in the future," he said. The Chinese influence could take many forms. One the general is looking at is "smart cities" projects put together by Chinese technology giant Huawei. "If that kind of infrastructure comes in and it starts to touch networks, you start to see a risk to U.S. forces and U.S. technical capabilities because of the collection capabilities that might come with that," he said. "We do watch that closely."
The general is forthright when discussing the threat with allies and partners in the region. "They all understand that, and I think they are making individual decisions about how to pursue their economic interest with China," he said. U.S. officials, including Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III, have repeatedly said the United States is not forcing nations to choose between China and the U.S. However, they think nations should understand all the baggage that comes with having economic ties to China. Spotlight: China Military Power Report
Grynkewich said there is no Chinese military footprint in the U.S. Central Command's area of operations, though there is a Chinese base in neighboring Djibouti at the southern entrance to the Red Sea. "We watch that closely," he said. Chinese navy ships have participated in the counter piracy mission in the region for years, "but, I would tell you, to the extent that there are ‘mil-to-mil' relationships with China in the region, they are very transactional," Grynkewich said. "What I emphasize to our partners is when you work with the Chinese, you are getting a transaction." U.S. forces work with allies and partners because of the deep strategic partnerships based on shared interests. Many of the nations of the Persian Gulf are major non-NATO allies, and U.S. forces have worked alongside them for generations. For example, Grynkewich said the Chinese have had a maritime presence in the region for a long time. "When was the last time the Chinese used their military presence to do something like intercept lethal aid going to the Houthis," he asked. "They've never done it. They've never done something like that." Some nations in the region have conducted military exercises with the Chinese. "They do one exercise with China," he said. "We do 15 or 20."
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439-4520 Public Affairs Officer www.cnic.navy.mil/bahrain Chief Editor Commanding Officer Naval Support Activity Bahrain Capt. Zachariah Aperauch NSA Bahrain Executive Officer Cmdr. Jimmy Harmon
Lt. Nicolas Mahone Deputy Public Affairs Officer Mark C. Mosher Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Sean Gallagher Host Nation Public Affairs Director Ameera Al-Kooheji
The Bahrain Desert Times is an authorized publication primarily for members of the Navy and Marine Corps military services in Bahrain. Its contents do not necessarily reflect the official views of the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense, the U.S. Navy or Marine Corps and do not imply endorsement thereof. All editorial content is prepared, edited, provided and approved by the staff of the Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain Public Affairs Officer. The appearance of advertising in this newspaper, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the DoD, the U.S. Navy or Marine Corps, or the NSA Bahrain Commanding Officer for the products and services advertised. Everything advertised in this newspaper shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user or patron. If a violation or rejection of this policy by an advertiser is confirmed, the publisher shall refuse to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected. A confirmed violation of this policy of equal opportunity by an advertiser will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source. The Bahrain Desert Times is published bi-weekly by Red House Marketing, P.O. Box 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain, a private firm in no way connected with DoD, the U.S. Navy or Marine Corps. Red House Marketing, is responsible for commercial advertising, which may be purchased by calling: (973) 1781 3777 or send in a Fax to (973) 1781 3700.
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New MOVIES at the MWR Cinema My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3 (PG-13) – 1h 32m Members of the Portokalos family reunite in Greece for a hilarious and heartwarming trip full of love, twists and turns. | Cast: Nia Vardalos, Lainie Kazan, Elena Kampouris, John Corbett
The Hill (PG) – 2h 6m The true story of Rickey Hill, the son of a travelling pastor who overcomes physical obstacles to pursue his dream of playing baseball in the major leagues. | Cast: Dennis Quaid, Colin Ford, Scott Glenn, Bonnie Bedelia
The Creator (PG-13) – 2h 13m As a future war between the human race and artificial intelligence rages on, ex-special forces agent Joshua is recruited to hunt down and kill the Creator, the elusive architect of advanced AI. The Creator has developed a mysterious weapon that has the power to end the war and all of mankind. As Joshua and his team of elite operatives venture into enemy-occupied territory, they soon discover the world-ending weapon is actually an AI in the form of a young child. | Cast: John David Washington, Gemma Chan, Ken Watanabe, Sturgill Simpson
Expend4bles (R) – 1h 43m Armed with every weapon they can get their hands on, the Expendables are the world's last line of defense and the team that gets called when all other options are off the table. | Cast: Sylvester Stallone, Jason Statham, Dolph Lundgren, Megan Fox
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