Naval Air Station Sigonella's 50th Anniversary Book

Naval Air Station, Sigonella 1

“TITOLI TITOLI”

2 Naval Air Station, Sigonella


PUBLISHED BY STAMPA GENERALE S.R.L.,VIA FULCO RUFFO C/O NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITYPOST OFFICE BOX 2263, 80143 NAPLES - ITALY

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PRINTING: DATA PRINT S.R.L. - NAPLES

THE SIGNATURE EDITORIAL OFFICE IS LOCATED ATNAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA, SICILY

PSC 812 BOX 3020FPO, AE 09627

☎ 095-865440 - DSN 624-5440

Welcome Messages 5-6

Sigonella History 7-23

Timeline 24-25

Then & Now 27-46

Sigonella All-Stars 47-55

What was going on in the world 54-61

NASSIG’s COs 1959-2009 62-63

Commanding Officer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Capt. Thomas J. Quinn

Executive Officer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Capt. Joseph W. Beadles

Command Master Chief . . . . . . . . . . .CMC Rosa L. Wilson

Public Affairs Officer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Lt. j.g. Matt Knight

Deputy Public Affairs Officer . . .Dott. Alberto Lunetta

Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Tracie Barnthouse

Staff Writers/Photographers . . .MC1 Chris Delano . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .MC2 Jason Poplin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .MC3 Jonathan Idle

Stampa Generale S.r.l., is a private firm in no way connected withthe Department of the Navy. Opinions expressed by thepublishers and writers herein are their own and are not to beconsidered an official expression by the Department of the Navy.The appearance of advertisements in this publication, includinginserts, does not constitute an endorsement by the Departmentof the Navy of the firms, products, or services advertised.

Cover photoLeft side: A Marine RQ4 supply Aircraft sits on the runway at NAFSigonella. (U.S. Navy photo by AE2/P1/AE Don Bailey)Right side: Aviations Technician Airman Justin Kirschbaum uses handsignals to taxi a P-3C Orion from the taxiway. (U.S. Navy photo byPhotographer’s Mate Airman Jacqueline Hall. (Released))

Contents

Agip Catania . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44Agip Tangenziale Ovest . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20Agip/Angela & Brother . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58Algese . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42All Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57Ameresco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48Archevion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7ASC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8Avis Rentals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12Bertorotta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9Borgo Antico Agriturismo . . . . . . . . .13Busi Impianti . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23Caffè del Duomo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32, 33CMC Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36Cocer Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46Comec . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62Copitel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56Craivan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49Days Inn Pub . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26Embry Riddle University . . . . . . . . . . . .41Esso . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40Etnapolis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53F.lli Chiechio Breakdown Service . . . . .58Gambino . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60Gegomotor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2nd Cover

Gelateria Frinfrisù . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50Gemmo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4Genovese Hardware Store . . . . . . . . .28Golden Moving Company . . . . . . . . . . . .37Hotel/TLA

Continental . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22Days Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26Gelso Bianco . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3rd CoverGrand Hotel Excelsior . . . . . . . . . . . .54Il Principe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11Magnolia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1, 17Motta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35New Place . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52Parc Hotels Italia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45Parco rocca . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48Pietro’s TLA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38Sigonella Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

Isole dei Ciclopi Diver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63Izzo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55Joe’s Garage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8Kartodromo Club Diana . . . . . . . . . . . . .43

Key Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10L’Angolo di Dodò . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12Lotos Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31Maggiore Rentals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63Mail Boxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43Marchi Dr. Marcello Plastic Surgeon 18Marconi Impianti . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34Mario Iron Works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10Masseria Portiere Stella . . . . . . . . . .40Multinational Logistic Services 64Mondo Animale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50MWR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19Navy Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4th CoverNEX Sigonella . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51Palermo Mobili . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39Restaurants

Alphio’s Garden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14Medusa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21Oxidiana Japanese Restaurant . . .2Taberna Sarvan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62Villa Zuccaro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60

Taxi Virgillito . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47University of Maryland . . . . . . . . . . . . .59University of Phoenix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15Volcano Rentals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61

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It is my distinct pleasure to wel-come both U.S. and Italian citi-zens to the Naval Air Station

(NAS) Sigonella 50th Anniversarycelebration. The combined U.S. andItalian cooperation over the last 50years has provided significant benefitsfor both nations and has created astrategic partnership and lasting per-sonal friendships.For the Americans in Sicily, an assign-ment to NAS Sigonella is among thebest duty our military and govern-ment civilians will get in their entirecareer. The warmth of the Sicilianpeople is remarkable, and the cultureis both historic and diverse. ManyAmericans complete a tour of duty inItaly and seek another.There are four significant groups of people who make lifein Sigonella such a quality experience for U.S. Servicemembers. First, our fellow service members and our families give usour connection to our own culture and home. Sigonella isa tight knit community making the overseas tour forAmericans abroad easier because we have a community ofour own to share with one another.Second, the Italian citizens employed by the U.S. Navy arethe backbone of the U.S. Navy’s ability to get its job donein Sicily. These employees are the most skilled and mostloyal we could ask for, and I know I speak for each of mypredecessors when I say that these men and women areintegral members of our team. This anniversary celebra-tion is recognition for every one of these individuals whoworks here now or has at any time in the past fifty years.Third, the Italian Air Force (ITAF) and the ITAF BaseCommander, Colonel Luca Tonello, are the best hosts wecould ask for. The cooperation and partnership betweenour nations begins with this relationship. The ITAF andUS Navy relationship has never been better than it istoday.Finally, the communities that surround the Plain ofSigonella, mainly Motta Santa Anastasia, Misterbianco,Catania and Mineo, where a large percentage of Americansassigned to NAS Sigonella live are outstanding neighbors.To the people of Italy and specifically Sicily, thank youvery much for being tremendous hosts to the Americanservice members here in Sigonella. To the American com-munity, enjoy the celebration, and add it to your collectionof life-long memories of your tour in Italy.

Capt. Thomas J. QuinnNAS Sigonella Commanding Officer


“Ècon grande piacere che do il miobenvenuto ai cittadini italiani edamericani intervenuti alla

Cerimonia del 50° anniversario della costi-tuzione della Stazione Aeronavale dellaMarina Statunitense (NAS) di Sigonella.La sinergia tra la componente italiana edamericana ha prodotto, nel corso di cin-quant’anni, risultati proficui per entrambele nazioni, generando una partnershipstrategica ed un’amicizia personale dura-tura. Gli americani che si trovano in Sicilia con-siderano l’assegnazione presso la NASSigonella, uno dei più ambìti incarichi ditutta la loro carriera civile o militare. Il calore dei Siciliani è straordinario, laloro cultura è ricca di storia e variegata.Dopo aver completato un incarico inItalia, molti americani fanno a gara perottenerne un altro.

Ci sono quattro gruppi rilevanti di persone, le quali fanno si che lavita a Sigonella costituisca un’importante esperienza di qualitàper i militari americani. Il primo gruppo è costituito dai nostricommilitoni e dalle loro famiglie. Essi fanno da legame tra lanostra stessa cultura e la madrepatria. Sigonella è una comunitàmolto unita che contribuisce a rendere più confortevole la perma-nenza oltremare degli americani, perchè è una comunità tuttanostra che possiamo condividere l’uno con l’altro. Il secondo gruppo è quello degli italiani che lavorano per laMarina Militare degli Stati Uniti. Essi sono la spina dorsale dellacapacità operativa della Marina USA in Sicilia. Questi dipendentisono tra i più qualificati e leali che si possano desiderare e so diparlare anche a nome di tutti i miei predecessori, se dico che questiuomini e queste donne sono parte integrante della nostra organiz-zazione. La celebrazione di questo anniversario è un riconosci-mento che va a ciascuna di queste persone che lavorano tutt’oggiin base o che hanno lavorato con noi nel corso dei cinquant’annipassati. Del terzo gruppo fa parte l’Aeronautica Militare Italianaed il suo Comandante, il Colonnello Pilota Luca Tonello.Anch’essi sono tra i migliori che si possano desiderare. Il partena-riato e la cooperazione tra le nostre due nazioni inizia da questacollaborazione. Il rapporto tra la Marina USA e l’Aeronautica Militare Italiananon è mai stato così saldo come in questo periodo. Infine, desideroricordare le care comunità limitrofe che circondano Sigonella edospitano con grande affetto una larga percentuale di americaniassegnati alla NAS Sigonella; tra le quali si annoverano principal-mente : Motta Sant’ Anastasia, Misterbianco, Catania e Mineo.Desidero far giungere agli Italiani ed in particolare ai Siciliani ilmio più caloroso ringraziamento per avere accolto da sempre imilitari americani a Sigonella. Auguro alla comunità americanadi divertirsi durante questa celebrazione e suggerisco loro diaggiungere questa ricorrenza alla collezione dei ricordi più belli eduraturi del loro soggiorno in Italia.

Capt. Thomas J. QuinnComandante NAS Sigonella

NAS Sigonella Commanding Officer,Capt. Thomas J. Quinn

Fifty years of history is really along time. And fifty yearshave gone by after the

United States Navy began to oper-ate from Sigonella supporting itsactivity in the Mediterranean Sea.

The Mediterranean Sea was thecradle of the Western civilizationand, internally, the island of Sicilyhas always been its hub: witnessand main part of everything wasgoing on.

For fifty years the Americancommunity of Sigonella has livednext to the Sicilian populationgoing through pleasant moments and more or less easy situationsto manage, but always in a climate of great friendship.

During those years, thanks to the collaboration among nations,like the one occurred in Sigonella between Americans andItalians, it has been possible to assure peace and prosperity andeven win the Cold War, which wasn’t as disastrous as World War Iand II, but could have been much more dangerous for the entireworld.

This year the Italian Air Force 41º Stormo AS, that I have thehonor and the privilege to lead, celebrates seventy years of opera-tion. With an impressive history, always serving its own Country,the personnel of the Wing are ready to face a future full of dutiesand projects.

During a year with such two important anniversaries I wish tothe two military communities operating in Sigonella, the USNaval Air Station and the 41º Stormo AS, to continue friendlycooperating together for many years again in order to always guar-antee peace and prosperity to United States, Italy and the entireworld.

I would like to wish a good anniversary to Captain ThomasQuinn, US Naval Air Station Sigonella Commanding Officer,and to all the personnel and your families on behalf of all the41º Stormo AS.

Luca TONELLOColonel ITAF

41º Stormo AS Commanding Officer

C i nquanta anni di storiarappresentano un tempomolto lungo. E cinquanta

sono gli anni che sono trascorsi daquando la Marina degli Stati Unitiha iniziato ad operare a Sigonellaper supportare le proprie attivitánel Mar Mediterraneo.

Il Mar Mediterraneo é stato laculla della civiltá occidentale e, alsuo interno, l’isola di Sicilia ne ésempre stata il suo baricentro: testi-mone e protagonista di tutto ció chevi é successo.

Per cinquanta anni la comunitáamericana di Sigonella ha vissuto accanto alla popolazione sicil-iana attraverso momenti piu’ o meno belli e situazioni piú o menofacili da trattare. Ma sempre in un clima di grande cordialitá.

Sono stati anni in cui, grazie anche alla collaborazione fra glistati, come quella che c’é stata a Sigonella fra Americani edItaliani, é stato possibile garantire pace e sviluppo e vincere unaguerra, quella Fredda, che non é stata disastrosa come quellemondiali ma ha rischiato di diventare molto piu’ pericolosa.

Quest’anno il 41º Stormo AntiSom che ho l’onore ed il privile-gio di comandare festeggia settanta anni di vita. Con una storiaprestigiosa, sempre al servizio della Nazione, alle spalle, il person-ale del Reparto si prepara ad affrontare un futuro ricco di impeg-ni e di progetti.

Nell’anno di due cosí importanti ricorrenze auguro alle duecomunitá militari che operano a Sigonella, il US Naval AirStation e il 41º Stormo AS, di continuare a collaborare insiemeamichevolmente per tanto tempo ancora al fine di garantire sem-pre pace e tranquillitá agli Stati Uniti, all’Italia e al mondointero.

Buon anniversario Captain Thomas Quinn, Comandante delUS Naval Air Station di Sigonella, a te, a tutto il personale e allevostre famiglie a nome mio e di tutto il 41º Stormo AS.

Luca TONELLOColonnello AMI

Comandante 41º Stormo AS


“In celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the Naval Air Station Sigonella establishment, Iwish to express, on behalf of the Motta Sant’Anastasia townspeople, my deep gratitudeand friendship for the US Navy and the American people who, in times of distress, have

helped my community to achieve peace and freedom.”

Dr. Nino Santagati, Mayor of Motta Sant’Anastasia

“Nel celebrare il 50° anniversario della costituzione della Stazione Aeronavale di Sigonella, desi-dero esprimere, a nome della cittadinanza di Motta Sant’Anastasia, la mia profonda gratidudi-ne ed amicizia alla Marina USA ed al popolo americano che, nei momenti difficili, ha aiutato

la mia comunità ad ottenere pace e libertà.”

Dott. Nino Santagati, Sindaco di Motta Sant’Anastasia

Colonnello Luca Tonello, Comandante 41° Stormo AS

Mayor of Motta, Dr. Nino Santagati


Sigonella’s history isone that dates back tothe late 1950s, when

the United States Naval AirFacility, or NAF, was estab-lished on June 15, 1959. Thebase’s first commanding offi-cer was Capt. Walter J. Frazier.

The idea to have a U.S.Naval base in Sicily was firstthought of during the early1950s, when it was discoveredthat the loading of the U.S.Navy P-2 Neptunes wouldresult in overcrowding in theexisting facility in Hal Far,Malta. Because there was nomore room for expansion inMalta, the Navy got NATO to back the use of Sicily. Land forSigonella was made available to the Navy on a temporary basisunder terms of agreement with the Italian government on June25, 1957. Six days later, equipment began arriving at Sigonella

La storia di Sigonellarisale agli anniCinquanta quando

venne creata l’InfrastrutturaNavale denominata “NAF”(Naval Air Facility). La NAFvenne inaugurata il 15 giugnodel 1959. Il suo primoComandante è stato ilCapitano di Vascello Walter J.Frazier.

L’idea di costituire una baseAmericana in Sicilia è nata neiprimi anni ‘50 quando ci si reseconto che l’invio di velivoli “P-2 Neptunes”, programmatoper la base di “Hal Far”(Malta), avrebbe causato un

sovraffollamento di mezzi presso la stessa. Non essendoci piùspazio a Malta, la Marina USA ottenne l’appoggio della NATOper il dispiegamento di forze in Sicilia. Il terreno per lacostruzione di Sigonella venne temporaneamente messo a dis-

Sigonella… then and now Sigonella… ieri ed oggi

Captain Walter F. Frazier received Assumption of Command of NavalAir Facility Sigonella on June 11, 1959

from the Malta base via Navy landing ship tanks. The first U.S.aircraft, a R4QD type Marine 1665 arrived in Sigonella fromNaples, Italy on Aug. 8, 1957.

The initial building of the operational side of Sigonella, orNAF II, started in September 1957, and construction of theadministrative area, or NAF I, started in 1958.

The NAF I base was built on top of a field where axis muni-tions were stored during WWII. The first completed buildingwas Sigonella’s administration and command building. Capt.R.W. Jackson, Sigonella’s commanding officer in 1970 decidedthat his office should be at NAF II, near the base’s operations.It was then that the executive office was moved to the NAF IIadministration building, where they are still located today.

posizione della Marina USA grazie ad un accordo siglato con ilGoverno italiano il 25 giugno del 1957. Sei giorni dopo,l’equipaggiamento cominciò ad arrivare a Sigonella dalla basedi Malta a bordo di navi da sbarco per carri armati. Il primovelivolo che atterrò a Sigonella fu un “R4QD Marine 1665”,proveniente da Napoli l’8 agosto 1957.

La costruzione della parte operativa di Sigonella, NAF II,iniziò nel settembre del 1957, mentre quella della parteamministrativa, NAF I, iniziò nel 1958. La base NAF I vennecostruita su un campo che veniva usato come depositomunizioni dalle potenze dell’Asse durante la Seconda GuerraMondiale.


A Marine Corp R4Q supply aircraft refuels on the NAF 2 tarmac circa1963. (Photo courtesy of Donald Bailey)

The building of NAF II included barracks and the administrationbuilding. (Photo courtesy Karen Miller)

A Navy R4D, A4D, and UH-34D sit in a hungar on NAS II. (Photocourtesy of Donald Bailey)

Naval Air Station, Sigonella 9The first Americans arrived for work at Sigonella in March

1959, which was six months before any buildings were readyfor occupation.

During the six months it took to make NAF I habitable, theNavy occupied a large warehouse complex called MagazzinoGenerale, which was opposite the cemetery on the right side ofthe street as one enters Catania from base. By August 1959, theNAF II airfield was available for daylight flights under visualflight rules (VFR) and by August 31, 24 flights were logged.

Also, Sigonella’s automatic 200-position telephone switch-board was also connected. Since there was a limitation on the

Il primo edificio che venne completato a Sigonella fu lapalazzina comando.

Il Capitano di Vascello RW Jackson, Comandante diSigonella nel 1970, decise che il suo ufficio dovesse esseretrasferito a NAF II, vicino alle operazioni di base.

Fu allora che l'Ufficio del Comandante venne spostato aNAF II presso l’ufficio amministrativo dove si trova ancoraoggi.

I primi americani arrivarono per lavorare a Sigonella nelmarzo 1959 ovvero sei mesi prima che gli edifici fossero prontiper l'uso. Durante i sei mesi nei qualli vennero eseguiti i lavoriidonei a rendere abitabile NAS I, gli uffici della Marina USA

Naval Air Facility Sigonella, Sicily (1959): Some of the first buildingsconstructed and ready to be occupied were the galley, bakery,theater, and the NAF Admin building, which is pictured here. (Photocourtesy Karen Miller)

Captain Caldwell on July 2nd 1966 with Italian color guard and Italianpolice force in Catania. (Photo provided by Jacquelyn LeBlanc)


amount of non-U.S. personnel manning at NAF, the switch-board was manned only during regular working hours. Thefirst buildings on Sigonella that were ready to be occupiedwere the administration building, the chapel, which opened inNovember 1959, theater, NAF I galley, bakery and dry provi-sions, enlisted barracks 171, 172 and 173, the BOQ, infirmaryand dental which is now the NEX mini mall, central heatingplant, water treatment plant, Security which was half of its

vennero ospitati da un grande deposito denominato “Magaz -zino Generale” ed ubicato di fronte al cimitero, sul lato destrodella strada, per chi entra in base provenendo da Catania.Nell’agosto 1959, l’aeroporto di NAS 2 era già attivo per volidiurni VFR (24 voli vennero registrati fino al 31 agosto).

Inoltre, venne installato a Sigonella un centralino automati-co con 200 postazioni.

A causa di una limitazione della quantità di personale nonamericano impiegato presso la NAF I, il centralino veniva atti-vato solamente durante il regolare orario di lavoro. I primi edi-fici pronti per l’uso ospitarono: la palazzina comando, la cap-

Aerial view of NAS 1 During the early sixties. (Official Navy Photo)

Sicily: Sigonella’s elementary school opened its doors in 1959 forstudents. (Photo courtesy Karen Miller)

Base housing was constructed and started to open for occupants in1961, including the first Executive Officer’s home. (Photo courtesyKaren Miller)


pella, che fu aperta nel novembre del 1959, il teatro, la mensadi NAF I, il panificio e deposito provviste, alloggi sottufficiali171, 172 e 173, alloggi ufficiali, infermeria e ambulatorio den-

present size, Navy Exchange building, sewagetreatment plant, and the switching station.Housing units were being built in April 1958 andwere approved on Feb. 2, 1961.

Since officers’ housing units were not the firstto be completed, the first unit to be occupied bySigonella’s commanding officer was quarter’s 137-D. Another building that was one of the first occu-pied was what is now the Armed Forces Network(AFN) building. In 1958, the building wasSigonella’s pest control center, and was the storageplace for rat poison. The Army Corps of Engineersused the building next for their offices, later shar-ing it with Special Services, which is what is now known asMorale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR). In 1966, AFN cameto Sigonella and joined Special Services, which soon moved

Navy P2V on patrol in Sigonella. (Official U.S. NavyPhoto)

A MH-53E “Sea Dragon” helicopter assigned to Helicopter Combat Support SquadronFour (HC-4) undergoes pre-flight checks at the Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonellaflight line before a mission. HC-4 is based in Sigonella and transports cargo,passengers and performs a wide range of heavy helicopter combat support missions,including mine-countermeasures operations. Sigonella provides logistics supportfor Commander, Sixth Fleet and North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) forces inthe Mediterranean area of operation. (U.S. Navy photo by Journalist 2nd ClassStephen P. Weaver. (Released)


out, leaving the building to the broadcasters. The medical dis-pensary began functioning in Oct. 1959 with one flight sur-geon, one general practitioner, two nurses, one dentist and 15hospital corpsman. In 1964 construction began on the originalNAS I swimming pool. In 1966, Capt. John H. Caldwellopened a four-lane bowling alley. At the time, there was also an

tistico che attualmente ospita un piccolosupermercato della NEX, l’impianto diriscaldamento centralizzato, l’ impianto ditrattamento delle acque, il reparto diPolizia Militare, grande la metà di quantoè oggi, edifici della Navy Exchange,impianto di trattamento delle acque fog-narie e la stazione elettrica

Le unità abitative vennero costruitenell’ aprile del 1958 e dichiarate abitabili il2 febbraio, 1961.

Poiché gli alloggi degli ufficiali nonfurono i primi ad essere completati, laprima abitazione del Comandante diSigonella fu l’alloggio 137-D.

Un altro edificio che fu tra i primi adessere usato fu quello che ospita attual-mente la Stazione Radiotelevisiva (AFN).

Nel 1958, l'edificio divenne la sede delservizio disinfestazione nel quale venne

immagazzinato il veleno per i ratti. Il Corpo del Genio dell'Esercito USA utilizzò successiva-

mente l’edificio, che venne in seguito condiviso con i ServiziSpeciali, l’attuale Ufficio Attività Ricreative (MWR).

Nel 1966, l’AFN si trasferì a Sigonella e si stabilì nell’edificioche ospitava i Servizi Speciali, che lo lasciarono subito dopo aigiornalisti radiotelevisivi.

Il dispensario medico venne attivato nell’ ottobre 1959. Lostaff comprendeva un chirurgo di volo, un medico generico,due infermieri, un dentista e 15 soldati di sanità.

Nel 1964 avvenne l’iniziale costruzione della piscina diNAS I.

Nel 1966, il Capitano di Vascello John H. Caldwell inau-gurò il bowling a quattro piste. A quel tempo era anche attivoun bersaglio di tiro con l’arco adiacente al campo da golf“Roccia Hollow,” che ora è occupato dall’odierno Ospedale diNAS I.

The medical dispensary opened its doors in 1959. In 1993, the Naval Air Station SigonellaHospital opened its doors, with Adm. Boorda leading the ceremony. (Official Navy photo)


archery target adjacent to the Rocky Hollow golf course, whichis now occupied by the current NAS I hospital.

As of September 8, 1959, Sigonella had 56 military and U.S.dependents aboard, with dependents from Malta still arriving.Most of the streets were partially paved and movies were beingshown nightly on the back of the administration building. Anew elementary school was due to open that fall, and teachingstaff had arrived.

By Nov. 30, Sigonella had 320 enlisted and 39 officers, with194 enlisted and 40 officers in VP-2 deployed squadrons.

Sigonella’s first flood occurredin mid-September, 1959. TheDittaino Bridge between NAF Iand NAF II was six feet underwater on Sept. 20. All traffic goingto NAF II was going throughCatania, power outages accompa-nied the floods and the road toNAF II airfield was flooded withthe bridge under five and a halffeet of water.

In April 1965, the swimmingpool was taking shape, with com-pletion set for July 30. The 1,840square feet addition to the EnlistedMen’s Club was also almost fin-ished and the NAF I gymnasiumwas in its formative stages, withcompletion set for October thatyear. On Aug. 1, 1965, Capt. L.E.Doner arrived in a Sicilian cart to

L’8 settembre 1959, Sigonella annover-ava tra i suoi abitanti 56 tra militari e lorofamigliari, parte dei quali continuavano adarrivare da Malta.

La maggior parte delle strade erano giàsono state asfaltate. Spettacoli cine-matografici venivano proiettati sul retrodella palazzina comando.

Una nuova scuola elementare sarebbestata inaugurata nell’autunno dello stessoanno con l’arrivo del personale docente.

Il 30 novembre di quell’anno Sigonellaospitava 320 sottufficiali, 39 ufficiali, deiquali 194 sottufficiali e 40 ufficiali presta-vano servizio presso i gruppi di volo “VP-2”.

La prima alluvione di Sigonella si veri-ficò a metà settembre del 1959.

Il 2° settembre il Ponte del Dittainoubicato tra NAF I e NAF II, venne som-merso da circa due metri d’acqua. Il traffi-co diretto verso NAF II stava attraversan-do Catania, si verificarono interruzioni di

energia elettrica e la strada che portava all’aeroporto di NAF IIvenne inondata ed il ponte si trovò sotto un metro e mezzod’acqua.

Nell’ aprile del 1965, la piscina stava gradualmenteassumendo forma, venne completata il 30 luglio.

L’edificio secondario di 1840 piedi quadrati che integrò ilCircolo Sottufficiali era quasi pronto e la palestra di NAF I, chestava già prendendo forma, sarebbe stata aperta nell’ottobre diquell’anno.

L’1 agosto del 1965, il Capitano di Vascello L.E. Doner

In 1998, Public Works opened the family housing complex Mineo. (Official Navy Photo)

cut the ribbon to formally open the swimming pool. On June23, 1975, American Forces radio was scheduled to beginbroadcasting 24 hours each day as an affiliate of the Army

inaugurò la piscina con il tradizionaletaglio del nastro arrivando su un carrettosicliano.

Il 23 giugno del 1975, l’emittente AFNiniziò la sua radiodiffusione di 24 ore algiorno in veste di affiliata della “SouthernEuropean Network”, gestita dell’EsercitoUSA. La radiodiffusione della “SouthernEuropean Network” costituì la primastazione radio di Sigonella in grado dioffrire una programmazione continua.

Il primo giornale della base di Sigonellafu chiamato “L’I’iniziatore” e fu pubblica-to per la prima volta nel febbraio del 1960.

Nel giugno del 1962, il nome del gior-nale venne cambiato in “NAFacts”, la cuistampa avveniva una volta al mese.

L’1 febbraio del 1963, si cominciò astamparlo due volte al mese, ma poi si feceun passo indietro tornando ad una pubbli-cazione trimestrale.

Il terzo giornale Sigonella vennechiamato “Il Pretoriano,” che iniziò ad

essere pubblicato nel 1974. L'ultimo cambiamento riguardanteil giornale avvenne nel 1984, quando venne denominato “LaFirma” e venne pubblicato settimanalmente a partire dal 1995.

L’1 luglio del 1981, l’aeroporto navale di Sigonella vennedesignato come Stazione Aeronavale.

La base è dislocata presso un aeroporto marittimo dellaNATO che si trova all’interno del sedime aeroportuale delAeronautica Militare Italiana.

NAS Sigonella fornisce supporto avanzato, unificato, logis-tico, amministrativo, ed operativo alla Sesta Flotta dellaMarina USA ed alle altre forze della NATO. Nell’espletamentodella sua missione, NAS Sigonella è supportata da diversicomandi ed unità indipendenti.

Nel mese di agosto 1983, il Quarto Squadrone Elicotteri diSostegno al Combattimento (HC 4) “Black Stallions” venne


Public Works broke ground on the family housing units, called Marinai in 2000. (Official U.S.Photo)

A new runway opened in 2002 to allow for wider planes to land atSigonella. (Official U.S. Navy photo)


operated Southern European Network.The Southern European Network broad-casting was the first time American Forcesradio station Sigonella offered continuousprogramming here.

Sigonella’s first base newspaper wascalled The Initiator and began publicationin February 1960. In June 1962, the paperwas changed to the NAFacts, and wasprinted once a month. On Feb. 1, 1963,publication increased to twice monthly,but then fell back to quarterly issues. Thethird Sigonella newspaper was thePraetorian, which started printing in 1974.The final change to the paper came in1984, when the paper became TheSignature. In 1995, The Signature becamea weekly publication.

On July 1, 1981, Naval Air FieldSigonella became a designated Naval Air

Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily (May 26, 2003 ) — A P-3C Orion assigned to the “Fighting Tigers” of Patrol Squadron Eight (VP-8) takes flight overMt. Etna in 2003. VP-8, based out of Brunswick, Maine, was deployed to NAS Sigonella in 2003. NAS Sigonella provides logistical support for SIXTHFleet and NATO forces in the Mediterranean Sea. (U.S. Navy photo by Photographer’s Mate Airman Shannon R. Smith. (Released))


Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily (Mar. 3, 2004) - Ron Hall, Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella Fire Department battalion chief, and AviationBoatswain’s Mate 1st Class Stephen Mark, NAS Sigonella Fire Department assistant training officer, sprays water on a fire coming from a MobileAircraft Fire Trainer (MAFT) on the NAS Sigonella flight line in 2004. The department recently obtained the MAFT, which will be used to safely trainfirefighters on aspects of fighting aircraft fires. The MAFT can simulate such things engine fires, wheel fires, interior fires, and tire blowouts. Otherbases in the Mediterranean such as Rota, Spain, and Souda Bay, Greece, will be able to come to NAS Sigonella to train using the MAFT. Naval AirStation Sigonella provides logistical support for Commander, Sixth Fleet and NATO forces in the Mediterranean area.( U.S. Navy photo byJournalist 3rd Class Stephen P. Weaver. (Released))

Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily (July 23, 2004) - Seabees assignedto Naval Mobile Construction Battalion Seven Four (NMCB 74), installconcertina wire on a fence line aboard the naval station. NMCB-74 iscurrently deployed to NAS Sigonella, and is home based in Gulfport,Miss. Sigonella provides logistics support for Commander, Sixth Fleetand North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) forces in theMediterranean area of operation. (U.S. Navy photo by Journalist 2ndClass Stephen P. Weaver. (Released))

Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily (Oct. 25, 2004) - AviationMachinist’s Mate 2nd Class Rousseau Estime, left, and AviationMachinist’s Mate 2nd Class Melchor Almodiel, lower a T-64 helicopterengine onto a test and check platform in the Aviation IntermediateMaintenance Detachment (AIMD) Test Cell Department. The T-64engine is used by the MH-53E Sea Dragon. The Test Cell ensuresrepaired aircraft engines are operating to specifications prior toinstallation on designated aircraft. (U.S. Navy photo by Journalist 2ndClass Stephen P. Weaver. (Released))


Station. The base occupies land at the NATO MaritimeAirfield Sigonella, which is operated and hosted by the ItalianAir Force. NAS Sigonella provides consolidated operationalcommand and control, administrative, logistical and advancelogistical support to U.S. and other NATO forces. To help

schierato presso la NAS Sigonella con l’arrivodei primi cinque elicotteri “CH-53E” e di unprimo nucleo di personale dell’HC-4 person-ale. HC-4 fu il primo Gruppo di volo dellaMarina USA operante su elicotteri H-53ESquadron, capace di fornire, in qualsiasi con-dizione metereologica, di giorno e di notte,supporto logistico al combattimento alle unitànavali dispiegate nel Mediterraneo

Nel 1993 venne inaugurato l’OspedaleNavale di Sigonella a NAS I.

La struttura era costituita da un edificiodotato di protezione chimica e biologica.

La “Flight Line Clinic”, l’infermeria dellapista di NAS II appartiene all’Ospedale Navaledi Sigonella che è dislocato su tre livelli conuna superfice di 98.000 piedi quadrati. Le vis-ite ambulatoriali effettuate annualmenteall’interno della struttura sono in media64.000, i ricoveri 559 e le nascite 157.

L’Ospedale ha come caratteristica unicauna Sala Parto tecnologicamente avanzata che può essere atti-vata in tempi rapidi per i servizi ostetrici.

Questo servizio ha drasticamente migliorato la qualità dellavita, basti considerare che, in passato, le partorienti venivanoportate fuori dall’isola. L'ospedale svolge un ruolo molto

Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily (2005): A major flood struck Sigonella in 2005 andcaused major damage to the Marinai housing complex. (Official U.S. Navy Photo)

importante nella Marina USA perchè funge anche da BancaEuropea di sangue congelato per il Dipartimento della DifesaUSA, ed è dotata di una capacità di immagazzinamento di6000 unità di sangue congelato.

Durante il 1998, il Genio Navale ha posto la prima pietradel Complesso Abitativo “Mineo” che avrebbe ospitato 404unità abitative familiari.

Nel 2000, il Genio Navale ha posto la prima pietra per larealizzazione del Complesso Residenziale “Marinai”, ubicatoproprio fuori dal cancello di NAS II.

Nel 2002, la popolazione della base annoverava 7000 per-sone e nel maggio dello stesso anno vennero inaugurati i centricommerciali “Navy Exchange” e “Commissary”, estesi su15.050 metri quadrati.

Sempre nel 2002, vennero aperti un nuovo terminal ed unapista per aerei più grandi.

Nel 2004, è stato aperto a NAS II un reparto logistico della“Defense Logistics Agency (DLA)” che fa da base per la ges-tione di approvvigionamenti diretti verso il Mediterraneo. La

NAS Sigonella with its mission, it is supported by a number oftenant organizations and support units.

In August 1983, Helicopter Support Squadron Four (HC4)“Black Stallions” deployed to NAS Sigonella with the first


NASSIG’s fourth CO, Capt. Caldwell (on right) with Lana Turner during her visit to Sigonella in 1967. Some of her films included “Peyton Place,” and“The Postman Always Rings Twice.” (Photo provided by Jacquelyn LeBlanc).

five CH-53E Super Stallions andinitial cadre of HC-4 personnel.HC-4 was established as theNavy’s first operational H-53ESquadron, and provided allweather, day and night, combatair logistic support to Naval unitsin the Mediterranean Theater.

In 1993, the U.S. NavalHospital Sigonella opened onNAS I. The facility featured ahardened complex designed withbiological and chemical protec-tive capabilities. The Flight LineClinic, which opened on NAS II,is also a part of Naval HospitalSigonella. Naval HospitalSigonella is a three-level, 98,000square foot facility. The averageyearly workload is 64,000 outpa-tient visits, 559 admission and157 births. A unique feature is that the hospital has is anadvanced delivery suite, that is readily available for obstetricservices. This service drastically improved the quality of lifedue to the fact that delivery services were ones only available

DLA si occupa anche della dismissione degli ex beni dellaMarina e dello smaltimento del carburante, attività che ven-gono espletate a NAS II.

Nel gennaio del 2005, il Comandante, del reparto logistico


Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily (2005): Morale, Welfare and Recreation opens its Midtown Complex. Thefacility has a bowling alley, theater, fitness center, basketball court, and more. (Official U.S. Navy Photo)

through medical evacuation off the island. The hospital alsoplays an important role in the Navy by being the DefenseDepartment’s frozen blood depot for the European Theater,with the capacity to store 6,000 units of frozen blood.

During the year of 1998, Public Works broke ground on theMineo housing site, which would provide 404 family housingunits.

In 2000, Public Works broke ground on the housing com-plex of Marinai, located directly outside the gate of NAS II.

In 2002, base population was over 7000 and in May of thatyear, the 15,050 square meter Navy Exchange andCommissary opened. Also during 2002, a new air terminal andrunway opened in NASSIG for wide planes. In 2004, theDefense Logistics Agency (DLA) opened Defense DepotSigonella Italy on NAS II to serve as a supply base for theMediterranean. DLA also provides fuel and property disposalfrom NAS II. In January 2005, Commander, Fleet andIndustrial Supply Centers announced the establishment ofFleet and Industrial Supply Center (FISC) Sigonella, Italy asthe logistics hub for Navy Region Europe.

In December 2005, Sigonella experienced its second majorflooding, resulting in several feet of water in the Marinai hous-ing complex.

Water entered and heavily damaged 464 of 526 units, utility


“Fleet and Industrial Supply Center” (FISC) ha sceltoSigonella come suo centro nevralgico logistico per la RegioneEuropa della Marina USA.

Nel dicembre 2005, Sigonella è stata colpita per la secondavolta da un’alluvione che ha parzialmente sommerso il comp-lesso abitativo “Marinai”. La furia dell’acqua ha gravementedanneggiato: 464 delle 526 unità abitative, uffici del repartoalloggi e di ditte appaltatrici. Dopo la completa evacuazione ditutte le famiglie sistemate presso alberghi locali e alloggi mili-tari, sono iniziate le operazioni di pulitura che si sono conclusedopo soli 45 giorni durante i quali la case sono state ripulite dalfango e dai sedimenti che le avevano ricoperto per diversi cen-timetri.

Le unità abitavive sono state ispezionate da squadre espertidi Medicina Ambientale e Preventiva (NEPMU-7 eNAVHOSP) che ne hanno assicurato nuovamente l’abitabilità.

Sempre nel 2005, NAS Sigonella ha costituito un repartomobile di addestramento per supportare il Comandante delleForze Navali d’Europa con l’obiettivo di sostenere le forzeMilitari dei paesi africani della Regione del Golfo di Guinea

Il team era composto da diversi specialisti della NAS chesono stati inviati rispettivamente in missione nel Ghana (duevolte) ed in Cameroon.

L'obiettivo del team non è solamente quello di addestrare le

stations, housing offices and contractor facilities. Cleanupbegan immediately following a complete evacuation of all fam-ilies to local hotels and barracks. Within 45 days, all of theunits were cleansed of mud and silt, which were several incheshigh in most units. The units were inspected by NEPMU-7and NAVHOSP Preventative Medicine teams and werecleared for families to return.

Also in 2005, NAS Sigonella established a mobile trainingteam to support Commander, Naval Forces Europe’s objectiveof engagement with African military forces in the Gulf ofGuinea region. The team was made up of various rates withinthe Air Station’s departments and has since deployed to Ghanaon two occasions, as well as Cameroon. The purpose of theteam is not only to provide training to African nations, but alsoto enhance the process of building military-to-military rela-tions with those countries. 2005 also welcomed the grandopening of Morale, Welfare and Recreation’s Midtown facility,


A Navy P3 flying over Taormina, Sicily. (Official U.S. Navy photo)

which boasts a fitness center,Movie Theater, bowling alley andmore.

In January 2006 HelicopterCombat Support Squadron (HC)4’s began their relocation fromNaval Air Station (NAS) Sigonellato their new homeport of Norfolk,Va. In 2008, the new StephenDecatur Elementary school openedafter extensive renovations andconstruction began on the newpublic works complex on NAS II.

NAS Sigonella supports a rota-tional VP squadron, C-2, C-9 andC-130 detachments, shore-basedfleet aircraft, transient NATO air-craft and US Air Force transientaircraft. The Augusta Bay PortFacility provides fuel, ammunitionand supplies to the Sixth Fleet combat and logistics supportships. The Niscemi Telecommunications Facility and PachinoTarget Range also provide support to the Fleet. As of 2009there are roughly 4000 total officers, enlisted, civilian and fami-ly members at Sigonella.

nazioni africane, ma anche quello di costruire rapporti di col-laborazione militare con questi paesi.

Nel 2005, è stato anche inaugurato il centro ricreativo“Midtown” del reparto MWR, struttura che vanta un centro fit-ness, un cinema, un bowling e molto altro.

Nel gennaio 2006 l’ HC- 4 si è trasferito dalla NAS aNorfolk, Virginia. Il 2008 ha visto la riapertura della nuovascuola elementare “Stephen Decatur” che è stata ampiamenteristrutturata e rinnovata. Nello stesso anno è iniziata a NAS II lacostruzione del nuovo complesso che ospiterà il Genio Navale.

NAS Sigonella fornisce supporto ai seguenti gruppi e repartidi volo: squadrone VP (rilocalizzato a rotazione), C-2, C-9 eC-130, aerei in transito della NATO e della US Air Force.

Il Molo ubicato ad Augusta fornisce carburante, munizionied approvvigionamenti alle unità navali logistiche e da combat-timento della Sesta Flotta.

Anche la Stazione di Telecomunicazioni di Niscemi ed ilPoligono di Pachino forniscono supporto alla Flotta.Attualmente la NAS Sigonella ospita circa 4000 tra ufficiali,sottufficiali, civili e loro famigliari.


Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily(Jan 07, 2005) An Explosive Ordnance Disposal mobile unit eighttechnician dresses out a willing participant for a demonstration during community festivities. (U.S. Navyphoto by Journalist 2nd Class Stephen P. Weaver (Released))


1952

1962

1972

1982

1992

2002

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September 1957:Initial building of theoperational side ofSigonella, or NAF II

1957

August 8, 1957: a R4QD type Marine1665 arrived to Sigonella from Naples.

1958

Construction of theadministrative area,or NAF I started.

April 1958:Construction started on housing units.

1959

March 1959:First Americans arrived for work atSigonella. No buildings were readyfor occupation yet, so the Navyoccupied a large warehousecomplex called Magazine Generale.

June 15, 1959:United States Air Facilityofficially established.

August 1959:NAF II airfield wasavailable for daylightflights under visualflight rules. 24 flightswere logged byAug. 31, 1959.

Sept. 8, 1959:Sigonella had 56 military andU.S. dependents aboard.

Mid-September 1959:Sigonella experiences first flood.

Nov. 1959:Siognella had 320 enlistedand 39 officers, with 194enlisted and 40 officers indeployed squadrons.

Nov. 1959: First buildingswere ready to be occupied.

1961

Feb. 2, 1961:Housing units were approved.

March 11, 1961:Stephen Decatur ElementarySchool opens.

1965

Aug. 1, 1965:Capt. L.E. Doner officially opensthe base swimming pool.

1981

July 1, 1981: Naval Air FieldSigonella becomes designated as aNaval Air Station.

A look b

1975

June 23, 1975:AFN began broadcasting24 hours a day at Sigonella.

1983

May 5, 1983:New air terminal facilityopens as the largest Navyrun air terminal in the Med,with capability to handlenearly 400 travellers anhour. The terminal cost anestimated $900,000 andconstruction began in 1981.

June 25, 1957: Landfor Sigonella wasmade available to theNavy on a temporarybasis under terms ofagreement withItalian government.


1993

April 1993:Naval Hospital Sigonella opens.

2004

Defense Logistics Agency (DLA)opened the Defense DepotSigonella, Italy on NAS II.

2005

Jan. 2005:Commander, Fleet and IndustrialSupply Centers announce theestablishment of Fleet and IndustrialCenter (FISC) Sigonella as thelogistics hub for Navy Region Europe.

Dec. 2005:Sigonella experiences secondmajor flood. Base officialsinstalled a protective berm,which has thus far preventedany futher flooding.

2008

Stephen Decatur Elementary Schoolopens after extensive renovation.

2009

NAS Sigonellacelebrates50th anniversary.

June 2005:Morale, Welfare and Recreationopens its Midtown facility, whichboasts a fitness center, bowlingalley, and movie theater.

2002

Better Air Terminal andRunways open upNASSIG for wide planes.

2000

Government housing,Marinai breaks ground.

1998

May 2002:15,050 square meterNavy Exchange andCommissary opened.

Public Works brokeground on the Mineohousing site, whichwould provide 404 familyhousing units.

NASSIG began work on a 45,000square foot school constructionprogram to accommodate the largestudent population.

k back...

Base populationreaches 7053.

Naval Air Station, Sigonella 27A Comparison of Then & Now

The $35 million Department of Defense DependentsSchool (DoDDS) on Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella’sSupport Base has ceremoniously opened, marked by a rib-

bon cutting from school and military officials on Sept, 18, 2008 inthe school’s atrium.

The ceremony began with the presentation of colors bySigonella’s Middle School/High School Junior ROTC. TheItalian and American Anthems were sung by Thea Burke, and thestudents followed, showing off their vocal range by singing“You’re A Grand Old Flag.“

Capt. Joseph Beadles, NAS Sigonella Executive Officer,praised NAVFAC (Naval Facilities) Europe for their teamwork inthe renovation and building process of the school. “This facility isa shining example of what happens when you have people work-ing together as a team with a common purpose and common

goal,” he said. Capt. David Sasek, NAVFAC EURSWA, echoedthat sentiment, saying that the day was “truly phenomenal.”

Students have been attending class at Stephen DecaturSigonella Elementary School since Aug. 28, 2008, but now that allof the finishing touches have been made, school officials are readyto show off what Principal Nadine Sapiente calls “the best schoolin DoDDS.”

“Our school motto is ‘Together we can’. I think you can seefrom the building behind you that together, we truly did,” saidSapiente. “We moved a mountain in order to build it, so thankyou to all of those who were a part of it.”

Diana Ohman, DoDDS Europe Director thanked all who par-ticipated in the planning and construction of the new school.“This building is the culmination of years of planning, and planti-ng, and building, and moving, but this is worth it,” she said.Ohman also encouraged students to take good care of their newschool. “When we close schools, we say, ‘if only these walls could

Stephen Decatur Elementary School – NOW

talk - the stories they could tell about kidsand learning and the future and pro-jects…’ Today, we are here at the verybeginning of all of the volumes and vol-umes of stories that these walls are goingto tell. Use it honestly and wisely. Takevery good care of it and have great funlearning.”

The state-of-the-art facility featuresopen atriums and breezeways; large, touch-board screens in every classroom, which aredirectly linked in to a computer system thatconnects to the Internet; a new media cen-ter that allows students to create video pro-ductions; two recycling centers; portablegenerators; and a layout that is advanta-geous for both students and teachers andconducive to productive learning.

The ribbon cutting ceremony markedthe culmination of work done to all of theSigonella schools. The combined middleand high school re-opened in February2007, after improvements were made.

The elementary school students closedthe ceremony by singing their schoolsong, and with the promise to uphold thevalues and teachings they learn duringtheir time there.


Diana Ohman, DoDDS Europe Director, thanks the NAVFAC team, Sigonella military community,and the students of Stephen Decatur Elementary School for their dedication to complete theconstruction of the state-of-the-art school, which ceremoniously opened on Sept. 18, 2008 onNaval Air Station Sigonella’s support base. (Photo by Tracie Barnthouse)


Information provided by: Lt. Cmdr. JohnPorter, EODMU8 Operations Officer

Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD)Mobile Unit EIGHT is a forwarddeployed command providing EOD

forces to Europe, Africa and Central Commandsin support of Operations Enduring Freedomand Iraqi Freedom; for the location, identifica-tion, rendering safe, recovery, field evaluationand disposal of explosive ordnance and weaponsin the littoral and open ocean regions of theworld. Their Platoons conduct HarborDefense/Port Security operations, performHumanitarian Demining Operations, engage inOrganic Mine Countermeasure operations, sup-port Joint Task Forces as directed, provide EODassistance to naval installations, assist theUnited States Secret Service in VIP protectionmissions, participate in research and develop-ment projects, and provide other diving anddemolition services as required. Additionally,EODMU EIGHT provides contingencyresponse forces to Europe, Africa, and CentralCommands.

Last year EODMU EIGHT deployed 12teams to three different continents in support ofOperations Enduring Freedom, Operation IraqiFreedom and theater contingency response.These missions included 1374 combat missionswithin 49 named operations, five exercises, 3humanitarian assistance missions, one emer-gency EOD response to the Chad Embassy, fivesecret service missions, disposed of 170 IEDSand 28,670 lbs of explosive remnants of war, andcleared 4,330 km of main supply routes andalternate supply routes.

Explosive Ordnance DisposalMobile Unit EIGHT – Now

Information provided by:Postal Clerk Senior Chief VictorL. Gonzalez, Postal Officer andFISC Sigonella Senior Enlisted Advisor

The postal services and capabilities ofNaval Air Station Sigonella have comea long way since the days a few postal

clerks sorting small amounts of personal andofficial mail in the 60’s.

Today, the postal services encompass apost office on NAS I, a post office on NAS II,the Fleet Mail Center on NAS II, 29 service-members and three civilians all working tomove and process the heavy postal traffic thatcomes in and out of Sigonella. Last year alone,they processed more than 1,776,000 poundsof mail and generated more than $676,000 inpostal revenue through the sale of stamps,money orders and mailing of packages.

Aside from serving the needs of Sigonella,the postal services also have the responsibility ofserving the fleet units operating in the 6thFleet’s Area of Responsibility. They dispatchand receive mail on a daily basis to CONUS andvarious locations throughout the theater usingcommercial air carriers and AMC/Navy flights.

To keep up with the demands of a techno-logically advanced Navy they’ve gone from theold manual scales and charts to determine theamount of postage needed to mail articles toIntegrated Retail Terminal computers.Despite the advances methods for trackingprocessing mail the life blood of Sigonella’spostal services still relies on the manual laborand means provided by their hard working ser-vice members and civilians


Sigonella Fleet Mail Center andPostal Services – Now

In August 1958, a Communications (COMM) Center wasestablished as part of Naval Air Facility (NAF) Sigonella.The COMM Center was housed in the NAF Brig, which is

now the present Security Building adjacent to the Naval AirStation I (NAS I ) gate. As the Air Station grew so did its need forcommunications. Various changes of location occurred over thenext few years with an increase in communications capabilityaccompanying each move.

On 1 July 1972, Naval Air Facility Sigonella transferred allcommunications, electronic assets and responsibility for NavySicily communications to NAVCOMMSTA Italy. On that date,NAVCOMMDET Sigonella was formed. In April 1976, when

NAVCOMMSTA Italy was redesig-nated as NAVCAMS MED, Naples,NAVCOMMDET Sigonella wasrenamed NAVCAMS MED DETSigonella. Nearly 30 years after itsfirst debut in the Mediterranean, on1 October 1987, NAVCAMS MEDDET Sigonella was disestablishedand NAVCOMMSTA Sicily wasestablished as its own command.

In October 1991, Naval RadioTransmitter Facility (NRTF)Niscemi was established on a largeplateau in the south-central part ofSicily. 41 HF transmitters and one827 foot LF transmitter comprisethe bulk of operations supportingNavy, Joint and Allied forces in theMediterranean, Southwest Asia,Indian Ocean and Atlantic Oceanareas.

In that same month, NAV-COMMSTA Sicily was redesignat-ed U.S. Naval Computer andTelecommunications Station(NAVCOMTELSTA) Sicily. Thisname change reflected the manytechnological advances that hadtaken place during recent years.

Today NAVCOMTELSTASicily is among the most capablemilitary communications stations,not only in the Mediterranean, butthroughout the world. It is the recip-ient of multiple Communicationsand Information TechnologyExcellence (CITE) awards, GoldenAnchor and Silver Anchor retentionawards and Defense InformationSystems Agency OutstandingFacility awards.


NCTS History

Information provided by: Lt. Bradley Hazen, NavalHospital Sigonella Public Affairs Officer

The U.S. Naval Hospital, Sigonella is a seventeen-bed com-munity hospital near the city of Catania, South of MountEtna on the island of Sicily.

The new facility opened on NAS I in 1993 and features a hard-ened complex designed with biological and chemical protectivecapabilities. The Flight Line Clinic located on NAS II, BranchMedical Clinic Bahrain and Branch Clinic Souda Bay, Greece, arepart of Naval Hospital Sigonella.

The hospital is accredited by the Joint Commission onAccreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO). The mostrecent inspection was in March 2001, which the hospital receiveda score of 96.

The hospital, is a 3-level, 98,000 square foot facility. Averageyearly workload is 64,000 outpatient visits, 559 admission (1,626bed days) and

157 births. The hospital features an advanced delivery suite,providing readily available obstetric services. This service alongwith orthopedic care created an important quality of life improve-ment due to the fact that these services were only availablethrough medical evacuation off the island. Advanced radiologicalservices have played an important role in the Sigonella communi-ty by providing computerized tomography, mammography, ultra-sound, fluoroscopy, and the ability to do upper and lower gas-trointestinal tests and X-rays. The Radiology Department isaccredited by the American College of Radiologists.

The hospital has been designated by the Navy as the DefenseDepartment’s frozen blood depot for the European Theater withthe capacity to store 6,000 units of frozen blood. The laboratoryprovides extensive support to the Fleet by providing liquid bloodand monitors the laboratory regulatory statutes for the medicalclinic’s in Souda Bay, Greece and Bahrain. The Laboratory isaccredited by the College of American Pathologists.

In addition to the support offered above,Medical services include:

Family Medicine, Internal Medicine,General Surgery, Mental Health, EmergencyMedicine, Pediatrics, Immunizations,Anesthesiology, Aviation Medicine,Occupational Health and PreventiveMedicine, Audiology, Nutrition, SubstanceAbuse Counseling Center (SACC), Wellnessand Health Promotion, Optometry, PhysicalTherapy, Social Work, Pharmacy, Radiology,Radiation Health, Primary Care/MilitarySick-call , and Education DevelopmentIntervention Services (EDIS).

The hospital serves a beneficiary popula-tion of approximately 12,000, (Sigonella:6,900; Bahrain: 4,500; Souda Bay: 750) withadditional patients being regulated(MedEvac) to the facility from the fleet andisolated areas in the European Theater. NH

Sigonella is a TRICARE Prime enrollment site.Collaboration with host nation medical professionals through

the TRICARE Europe Preferred Provider Network has alsoexpanded the community benefit to include specialty areas of carein Allergy/Rheumatolgy, Cardiology, Dermatology,Gastroenterology, Neurology, Trauma Orthopedics,Otorhinolaryngology (ENT), Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery,Psychiatry/Psychology, and Urology.


Naval Hospital Sigonella – Now

Naval Air Station Sigonella Hospital under construction in 1992. (Official U.S. Navy Photo)

Antisubmarine Warfare (ASW) com-mand, control, and communicationsin the Mediterranean began in the

administrative spaces of the patrol squadrondeployed to Naval Air Station (NAS)Sigonella in 1968. An initial teletype andvoice relay capability led to an expanded com-munications transmitter site constructed north-west of the base in 1970.

First designated as an AntisubmarineClassification and Analysis Center, the facility was upgrad-ed to an Air ASW Tactical Support Center (TSC) in 1972, mak-ing for the first time real-time mission planning and evaluationpossible for deployed P-3 squadrons. TSCs were later designatedfleet wide as Antisubmarine Warfare Operations Centers(ASWOCs). Serving a dual role as a NATO Maritime Air ControlAuthority (MACA), ASWOC/MACA Sigonella became respon-sible for analysis, reconstruction, and command and control ofMaritime Patrol Aviation (MPA) forces from several allied coun-tries flying from Sigonella in support of NATO’s southern regioncommitments. In May 1993, the ASWOC was then designated aTSC, but with a greatly expanded command and control role inU.S. joint, and NATO maritime operations.

TSC/MACA Sigonella served as a subordinate task unit(CTU-67.1.2) of Commander, Maritime Surveillance andReconnaissance Force, U.S. SIXTH Fleet (CTF-67) and provid-

ed task group (CTG-431.3) command and staff functionsfor NATO MPA forces assigned to Commander,

Maritime Air Forces, Mediterranean (CTF-431).Since its inception, TSC/MACA Sigonella has

been recognized with two Navy UnitCommendations, five Meritorious UnitCommendations, six Commander in Chief, U.S.Naval Forces, Europe “Golden Anchor” awards

(FY-89, 93-97), three “Silver Anchor” awards(FY-88, 92, 98), and five Commander, U.S. SIXTH

Fleet “Hook-‘Em” awards for Under Sea Warfare(USW) Excellence. Especially noteworthy were

TSC/MACA Sigonella’s contributions to MPA operationsduring the Kosovo conflict, including the historic first use of theP-3C platform in an offensive strike role and continuous defenseof SIXTH Fleet naval units positioned in the Adriatic Sea.

Operating in a multimillion dollar facility, TSC/MACASigonella evolved into its mission of supporting forward-deployedMPA assets. The pride and professionalism of each member ofthis unit, however, have served as the foundation for it’s success.TSC Sigonella was disestablished on October 1, 2004.

CTF-67 is a subordinate commander to Commander, U.S.SIXTH Fleet and maintains operational control over deployedmaritime patrol squadrons, permanently-based reconnaissancesquadrons and antisubmarine warfare operations centers in theMediterranean. CTF 67 is responsible for maritime air and sur-veillance forces. The P-3 Orion patrol aircraft provide the Fleetwith essential information on the Mediterranean area.


History of CTF-67

During Operation Allied Force aircraft from Task Force 67deployed to Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily, took on combatand combat support missions that would have been impossible forP-3s of the past. NATO’s Allied Force marked the combat debutof the P-3C Antisurface Warfare Improvement Program (AIP), anupgrade that includes Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), whichprovides all-weather, day or night surveillance capability; StandoffLand Attack Missile (SLAM) capability; and a suite of sensor,communications and self-defense equipment. The Mediterraneanmaritime patrol force for these operations included ten P-3Cs,five of the AIP variant, and 14 crews from Patrol Squadrons 1, 4, 5and 10 from Naval Air Stations Whidbey Island, Barbers Point,Jacksonville, and Brunswick, respectively.

On 22 March, 1999, two days before the start of hostilities, P-3C AIP aircraft began flying around-the-clock armed force protec-tion surveillance flights in the Adriatic Sea in direct support ofafloat Tomahawk Land Attack Missile (TLAM) shooting ships.For the next 94 days, Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA) provided100 percent of the Surface Combat Air Patrols (SUCAP) for theUSS Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Battle Group and other alliedships operating in the area. This marked the first time surfacecombat air patrols during actual combat operations have beenperformed exclusively by non-carrier organic aircraft.

CTF-67 AIP-equipped P-3’s were able to directly observecommercial contraband ships as well as Yugoslav boats and shipsmoored at coastal sites and underway. The images were down-linked to the USS Theodore Roosevelt battle group commander,giving the battle group an unprecedented real-time and near real-

time view of the tactical situation. In all, CTF-67 aircraft detectedand reported over 3,500 surface contacts. In another first, AIP-equipped P-3s fired a total of 14 SLAMs at Serb targets. Due tothe P-3’s ability to stay on-station for hours at a time, battle groupcommanders had the flexibility to hit mobile targets on shortnotice. This in-flight planning/retargeting ability for SLAMstrikes validated the importance of the P-3’s strike role.

Commander, Task Force 67 (CTF-67) was established underCOMFAIRMED in 1952 and was originally located in Naples,Italy before moving to NAS Sigonella, Sicily in October, 2004.After completing the move, the TSC facility and personnelbecame Commander Task Force 67 and Staff. Commander TaskForce 67 was assumed by CAPT R. A. Lally on October 1, 2004.

Since the move CTF-67 has taken several commands under it’scontrol: Aviation Intermediate Maintenance Depot(AIMD),JMAST, NCTSI-4, PEP, others, and of course the deployed P-3squadron. CTF-67 has restructured itself into three TacticalOperations Control Center (TOCC) teams, Battle WatchCaptain (BWC) position, and a staff that takes direction fromSIXTH Fleet, and implements that tasking through the BWC tothe TOCC teams.

The CTF-67 Surveillance authority now encompasses muchmore than just the P-3 and EP-3. They are now in position tobecome the Antisubmarine authority in the Mediterranean, whiledirecting an Area of Responsibility (AOR) that sweeps fromEastern Africa to Western Russia. In addition, CTF-67 is part ofthe implementation of the Navy’s vision of net-centric warfarecalled ForceNet.



Fleet Logistics Support Wing Executive Transport Detachment isa dedicated team of professionals comprised of aircrew and air-craft maintenance personnel, in support of the Commander U.S.Naval Forces Europe / Commander Allied Joint Forces SouthernEurope. ETD provides airborne command and control commu-

nications services and VIP transportation for Commander NavalForces Europe utilizing a specially equipped C-20A aircraft(Gulfstream III).Commander in Chief Allied Forces Southern Europe (CINC-SOUTH) was originally issued a R6D-1Z (BUNO 128433)sometime prior to 1958. This aircraft was transferred to VR-1 in1958. OP-5 then assigned an R4Y-1 (C-131, BUNO 141020) asits replacement. Prior to being sent to Naples, the aircraft was sent

Fleet Logistics Support Wing ExecutiveTransport Detachment History

1958, A R4Y-1(C-131 BUNO 141020) arrives in Naples Italy. “CATBIRD” is painted on the nose of the aircraft just behind “1020”. The cat had not beenpainted on the tail at the time of this photograph. The aircraft was painted with a white upper half and a polished aluminum lower half, a very majes-tic aircraft in its day.

to Southwest Aeromotive in Dallas Texas for a VIP configurationupgrade. The addition of plush seats, a head, stove, refrigeratoretc., was so extensive that there were only sixteen passenger seats

available. Although it was not in the sameleague as the R6D-1Z, it was a plush aircraft toride around in.

Admiral C. R. Brown was assigned the postof Commander in Chief Allied Forces SouthernEurope in 1958. A much beloved officer, heacquired the nickname of “CAT” as a youngsterand was known so during his long and illustri-ous naval career. When BUNO 141020 wasassigned there was a contest within the CINC’soffice to come up with a name for the plane.The name ended up as the “CATBIRD” and thecallsign was officially changed to “CATBIRD1020.”

On December 29th 1959, Lt David Youngwrote to Walt Disney’s public relations directorand asked if the art department could providehim with several sketches of both a “leaping” and“Halloween” type cat because of a lack of artisticability in his unit. In February of 1960 HazelGarner of the Walt Disney Public RelationsDepartment replied and sent 2 sketches of catsalong with 2 separate license’s for each sketch.These license’s gave the US Government exclu-

sive use and the right to reproduce the sketches as long as the WaltDisney Copyright notice appeared along with the design. This costthe government $1.00 for each drawing.


These photos were provided by the Walt Disneyarchives. They were sent to the archives by ADMBrown’s staff along with a thank you letter fromthe Admiral. These are some of the few picturesthat show the CAT insignia on the tail of the R4Y-1.

In March of 1960, after a little arm twisting the Admiral agreedto have the Cat insignia painted on both sides of the vertical stabi-lizer. After this the “CATBIRD” became well known around vari-ous US and NATO airfields around Europe.

There is no documentation as to when the CAT insignia wasremoved from the aircraft, however the CATBIRD callsign stuck

with the aircraft. In 1982 the R4Y-1 was replaced by a VP-3A air-craft (BUNO 150511). This was a converted P-3A ASW aircraft.This aircraft had been reworked and outfitted with a ExecutiveCompartment complete with 2 bunks, head, desk and an enter-tainment console. It also had a four man bunk room which con-verted into a conference area, and a staff area which seated eightpeople. The crew compartment had bunks for two, a completekitchen area with a stove, refrigerator, oven and a galley table. Afull crew consisted of 2 pilots, 2 flight engineers, 2 radio operatorsand 2 flight attendants (long flights consisted of an extra pilot).Twelve passengers could be carried for a total of 21 persons.

Three VP-3A aircraft have had the pleasure of serving as CAT-BIRD. BUNO’s 150515, 150511 and today 150496. These air-craft were attached administratively and based out of NASSigonella because of the P-3 support that the base provides. Theunit name is now called CINCUSNAVEUR Executive TransportDetachment Sigonella. Aircraft BUNO 150496 has been exten-sively modified to include an INMARSAT telephone system,upgraded UHF/VHF/SATCOM radios, Traffic Alert andCollision Avoidance System (TCAS) / Enhanced GroundProximity Warning System (EGPWS) and a Contained FlightInformation Recording System (CFIRS) commonly known as a“Black Box.”In 1999, a particular interest was generated about the historicvalue of CATBIRD. The name and pictures were researched andwith the help of a local Italian aviation enthusiast and the WaltDisney archives, the CATBIRD design was found. The Catbirdname and original design from Walt Disney was presented toADM James O. Ellis with a request to reapply the art back ontothe aircraft for the 40th year anniversary of the “CATBIRD Unit.”Not only did he agree to the reapplication but also sent 2 brandnew one dollar bills as a renewal payment to the Chairman ofWalt Disney and thanking him for an “act of kindness” which cre-ated the logo 40 years earlier. The CATBIRD insignia and callsignhas renewed a special interest in and around the European theater


Sometime during March 1960, the CAT insignia appeared on the tail of the Convair R4Y-1 aircraft (BUNO 141020). This photograph is the only knownphotograph to exists of the entire aircraft with the CAT painted on the tail. The photo was taken in NAPLES ITALY. “CATBIRD” is painted just behindthe cockpit window.


Pictured above is BUNO 150511. This was the first VP-3A to assume the role of CATBIRD. The aircraft because of its interior configuration wasconsidered to be the best aircraft for the job. The Kitchen was larger with a Jenn-Aire oven and had a rear cargo compartment below the staff seatingarea. This particular aircraft while serving as CATBIRD had only one crew bunk, the other was removed to make room for a crew baggagecompartment. Although the CFIRS system was installed it did not have the communications upgrade package which later came to BUNO 150496.

The Navy P-3 Buno# 150496 was retired on the 13 April 2004 and departed NASSIG on the 10 May 2004. The C-20 Gulfstream arrived in NASSIG18 April 2004.

and along the Eastern Coast of the UnitedStates. The reintroduction of the art on theaircraft not only preserves the history of theunit but also serves as a preservation ofNaval Tradition. When someone mentions“CATBIRD” everyone knows who you aretalking about.


Pictured above is the CATBIRD art that was displayed on the aircraft in 1999, which was the 40thyear anniversary of the “CATBIRD” unit. Note the Walt Disney copyright logo on the lower right-hand side of the art. The current artwork is displayed on both sides of the nose of the aircraftand does not have the dates or “40 years of service” logo.

The ETD Command at NAS Sigonella has aunique logo

Defense Distribution Depot Sigonella, Italy (DDSI), isstrategically located in the heart of the MediterraneanSea. With capability to provide the full complement of

physical distribution services andideally located on the historically-rich island of Sicily, DDSI standsready to support all four servicecomponents and other federalagencies located south of theItalian Alps.

Officially activated on April 1,2004, DDSI was established toprovide forward stock positioningsupport and enhanced physicaldistribution services in conjunc-tion with an expanding regionalcustomer base. Collocated onNaval Air Station, Sigonella, Italy,DDSI’s primary customers cur-rently include the AviationSupport Division, AviationIntermediate MaintenanceDivision, and Navy ships andsquadrons operating in theMediterranean region. Specialized

handling and support services include managing the Navy’s haz-ardous materials, depot level repair part storage and distribution,and a complete range of material packing and shipping services.DDSI also provides expedited requisitioning and centralizedreceiving support to the military community throughout theMediterranean.


Defense Distribution Depot Sigonella,Italy (DDSI)

DDSI, Sigonella provides distribution services for all four of the services, as well as for federal agenciessouth of the Italian Alps. (Photo by Tracie Barnthouse)

In December 1977, Jim Thompson started working at NASSigonella, after an eight year career in the Navy. Thompson gotout of the Navy and returned to the United States. He met his

wife, an Italian local national, when he was doing a VP tour inSigonella. After they married, they spent four years in Naples, thenreturned to the States and came back to Italy when Thompson wasa temporary hire with the supply command in 1977.

“I initially came to work as a military customs inspector andhousing goods inspector with supply,” said Thompson. “Then Imoved to Security as a security clerk doing the base passes andstuff like that.” Over the years, Thompson was able to move alongas the position changed. His grade was changed to supervisor inthe 1980s and has been the same since then. In 1982, Thompsontook a collateral duty assignment to help the office process docu-ments faster. During this time, he started working as a customsclearance officer on base. This means that Thompson was doingthe work of two positions; collateral duty, which had become per-manent duty as the only customs clearance officer MVRO has atNAS Sigonella.

Thompson has seen many changes during his 36 years. “Just inmy tour we have moved seven times from one building to anoth-er.” He says that when he first came to work at Sigonella, Securityonly had 50 people. That number is much larger now. He alsosays that the job has changed tremendously, too. “We had about athousand vehicles registered and now we have roughly 2500because we’ve gone down from the four thousand in the past cou-ple years.” He cites commands coming and going as the reason forthis change.

Thompson really enjoys working at NAS Sigonella and makingan impact on the people he serves. “Helping people has been mygoal. Having people tell you ‘you did a good job’ or coming backfor second or third tours and saying, ‘Oh good, Mr. Thompson.Someone we know. We know we’re going to be taken care of.’And they have been very thankful of the work the other clerks andI have done for them.”


Jim Thompson – 32 years at NAS Sigonella

Naval Air Station Sigonella All-Stars

Dopo otto anni di carriera nella Marina Militare, JimThompson inizia a lavorare presso la NAS Sigonella neldicembre del 1977. Dopo essersi congedato, Thompson ritor-

na negli Stati Uniti. Nel periodo in cui presta servizio presso un grup-po di volo di stanza a Sigonella, incontra la sua moglie italiana.

Dopo il loro matrimonio, trascorrono quattro anni a Napoli e,dopo essere rientrati negli Stati Uniti, tornano in Italia nel 1977, unperiodo nel quale Thompson lavora con un contratto temporaneopresso il reparto approvvigionamenti.

“Il mio primo incarico è stato quello di ispettore militare doganaleed ispettore ufficio alloggi”, dice Thompson. “Poi mi sono trasferitoalla Polizia Militare come impiegato addetto al rilascio pass di acces-so in base”, aggiunge Thomspon. Nel corso degli anni il suo mansion-ario di qualifica è stato modificato, permettendogli di diventare super-visore del suddetto ufficio nel 1980, incarico ricoperto a tutt'oggi.

Nel 1982, Thompson si vede assegnato un incarico collateraleriguardante lo snellimento della gestione della documentazionedell’ufficio. In quel periodo, inizia a lavorare come responsabile sdo-ganamento della base. Ciò significa che Thompson svolge due man-sioni, tra le quali quella collaterale (che viene in seguito trasformata inincarico permanente) di unico responsabile sdoganamento in serviziopresso l’ufficio immatricolazioni (MVRO) della NAS Sigonella.

Nel corso di 36 anni di servizio in base, Thompson ha visto molticambiamenti: “Da quando lavoro nel mio reparto ci siamo trasferitisette volte. Quando sono arrivato a Sigonella c’erano solamente 50impiegati presso la Polizia Militare. Quel numero ed il nostro caricodi lavoro sono cresciuti notevelmente nel corso degli anni. A causa delviavai dei Comandi, siamo passati da un numero iniziale di circamille immatricolazioni alle attuali 2500. Negli ultimi anni c’è statauna flessione di immatricolazioni che si attestavano a circa 4000”,aggiunge Thompson.

Thompson è soddisfatto sia del suo lavoro alla NAS Sigonella chedell’impatto positivo che esso ha nei confronti dei suoi utenti. “Aiutarele persone è stato da sempre il mio obiettivo. È gratificante sentirsidire: “hai fatto un buon lavoro” oppure, quando sono tornato al mioincarico per la seconda e terza volta: “Oh bene, c’è il SignorThompson, qualcuno che conosciamo. Siamo sicuri che si prenderàcura di noi”. Gli altri impiegati ed io siamo stati ringraziati per illavoro solerte che abbiamo svolto per loro”, spiega Thompson.

Jim Thompson - 32 anni di servizio presso la NAS Sigonella

Jim Thompson - 32 years at NAS Sigonella.

Kenneth Dexter was raised in a military family. His fatherwas stationed overseas and when he graduated highschool, he wanted to go back to the States and go to col-

lege, but his father persuaded him to take advantage of being over-seas and the opportunities available.

Through a friend of his father’s, Dexter enrolled ina Swiss hotel management school. When he finishedprofessional school in 1965, they sent him to a hotelin Switzerland. That job took him all over Europe,especially Germany. It was in Germany that he sawan American military base and remembers thinkingthat it was cool. He went on base and applied for ajob and they hired him right away. He worked at thebase in Germany for six months when someonecalled him and told him that the base in Naples waslooking for someone to run their hotel that was onbase. “That was right in my field, so I called them andI went down for an interview and got a job with theAllied Officers Club with NATO,” he said. Afterworking there for awhile as the assistant manager, hegot another call and the caller basically said, “Hey, there is a guy inSigonella looking to hire a food guy.” Dexter called the guy andcame down to Sigonella for an interview and was hired as theenlisted club manager, where he worked for 10 years.

In 1967, Dexter was appointed as Mess Coordinator for all ofthe clubs. In 1994, they merged with MWR, and since then he’s

K enneth Dexter è cresciuto in una famiglia di militari. Dopo ildiploma, mentre suo padre si trovava in missione all’estero,esprime il desiderio di tornare negli Stati per frequentare

l’università, ma suo padre lo persuade ad approfittare delle opportu-nità offerte dal fatto di risiedere temporaneamente all’estero.

Grazie ad unamico di suopadre, Dexter siiscrive ad unascuola svizzera dim a n a g e m e n talberghiero. Allafine del corso,viene impiegatopresso un hotel inSvizzera. Questolavoro gl i dà lapossibilità di viag-giare in tuttaEuropa, in parti-

colare in Germania. Mentre si trova in Germania, vede una basemilitare americana che gli ricorda la sua infanzia. Decide quindi difare domanda per lavorare all’interno di questa struttura militare.Dopo sei mesi di servizio, gli viene detto che la base di Napoli stavacercando un manager per dirigere l’hotel ubicato all’interno dellastruttura militare. “Era proprio il mio campo, li ho chiamati e misono recato a Napoli per un colloquio. Ho ottenuto il posto presso ilcircolo ufficiali della NATO”, dice Dexter. Dopo avere lavorato inquella struttura in veste di assistente al manager, riceve un’altratelefonata durante la quale gli viene offerto un lavoro a Sigonellacome experto di ristorazione del settore alberghiero. Dexter si reca aSigonella per il colloquio ed ottiene il posto di responsabile del circo-lo sottufficiali, presso il quale lavora per dieci anni.

Nel 1967, Dexter viene nominato responsabile del serviziomensa per tutti i circoli della base. Nel 1994, le mense vengono uni-ficate ed incorporate all’interno del reparto attività ricreativeMWR. Dexter dirige questi circoli fino a quando ne viene cambiatala denominazione. In seguito, Dexter frequenta un corso di special-izzazione grazie a quale diventa un funzionario dell’ufficio appaltidell’MWR.


Kenneth Dexter – 42 years of government service Kenneth Dexter - 42 anni di servizio presso il Governo americano

Kenneth Dexter - 42 years of government service.

Naval Air Station, Sigonella 49been the club director until they changed the title to food andbeverage. He then took classes at a specialist school and became acontracting officer for MWR.

“The base when I came here was nothing on NAS II. Therewas a hangar and the LOX plant and that was it. No fence or any-thing,” he said. On NAS I, he says they had everything; housing,which had separate villas, enlisted and officer housing. Across thestreet at what is now Days Inn and the ESSO gas station there wasa small restaurant. There were three barracks on NAS I and mostof the Sailors were from the VP squadron or Seabees. “We had amovie theater here on base and a Rocky Hole nine-hole golfcourse where the hospital now sits,” he said. He said that the mis-sion was different then, too, as they were more geared toward sup-porting the VP squadrons. He said that there were always 10 or 12P3s on the runway. From there, special weapons came as well asthe Marines. “We opened up the gym and the small NEX and thenthe lava lounge followed by a BOQ as we started getting bigger.The construction just never stopped,” he said.

Dexter has enjoyed his 46 years at Sigonella and his favoritething about it is meeting the amount of people he’s been able tomeet. He says, “I was on vacation in Hawaii at a luau and the guysare doing this dance on stage and this couple was sitting there,and they asked me where I was from. I told them ‘I’d tell you butyou wouldn’t believe me.’ I told them and they said, “I was atSigonella. I slept in the gym there when I went to Desert Storm.”Then he said it was the best pizza of his life at Big Al’s. I go to con-ferences some place and some guy will come up and be like, ‘HiKen, how have you been?’ I know people all over the world. It wasmore of a family back then.”

“Quando sono arrivato a NAS II non c’era niente. C’era sola-mente un hangar ed un impianto ad ossigeno liquido. Niente, nep-pure la recinzione”, spiega Dexter, il quale aggiunge che a NAS Ic’era tutto: complesso abitativo con alloggi separati per ufficiali esottufficiali. Di fronte all’odierno Days Inn ed alla stazione diservizio ESSO c’era un piccolo ristorante. A NAS I c’erano tre allog-gi che ospitavano principalmente personale della Marina apparte-nente al gruppo di volo (VP squadron) ed ai “Seabees” del GenioNavale. C’era anche un cinema ed un campo da golf a nove bucheche si trovavano nell’area dove sorge l’Ospedale. Dexter spiega che,in quel periodo, la missione della base era prevalentemente quella disupportare i gruppi di volo (VP) ed aggiunge che sulla pista c’eranosempre tra i dieci e i dodici velivoli P-3 Orion. Dexter racconta che,successivamente, arrivarono i reparti armi speciali ed i Marines.

“Abbiamo aperto la palestra e successivamente, man mano che ciingrandivamo, un piccolo supermercato della NEX, la mensa (lavalounge) e gli alloggi per ufficiali (BOQ). I lavori di costruzione nonsi sono mai fermati”, dice Dexter.

Dexter è pienemente soddisfatto dei suoi 46 anni trascorsi aSigonella perchè ha avuto la possibilità di incontrare tantissimagente. “Mentre ero un vacanza alle Hawaii, durante una festa“Luau” con spettacolo di danza, una coppia mi chiese da doveprovenivo. Gli dissi che glielo avrei detto e che non mi avrebbero cre-duto. Loro mi risposero: “ero a Sigonella ed ho dormito nellapalestra quando ho partecipato alla missione Desert Storm”. Poi midisse che aveva mangiato la migliore pizza della sua vita da BigAl's. Partecipo spesso a conferenze in giro per il mondo e trovo sem-pre qualcuno che mi dice: “Ciao Ken, come va?” Ho amici in tutto ilmondo. A quei tempi eravamo come una famiglia”, spiega Dexter.


John Hoffpauir left his home in Louisiana in August 1954 formilitary service. Joined Army/Airborne at Ft. Campbell, KY.Transferred to Germany for services with 10th Special ForcesGroup, and after his discharge in Germany, traveled through

Europe. Settled in Rome, where he worked part time for the U.S.government.

Paola was born in Rome, Italy. The only child of the late Giuseppeand Silvia Cretara of Rome. She attended School of Business andAccounting, Secretarial School, and the Rome British LanguageInstitute.

From 1955 through 1957 Paola worked in the Foreign Relationsand Travel Dept of CIT, Rome (the Italian Government Travel andVisitors Bureau).

In 1957, during Independence Day celebrations held by a group ofAmericans living in Rome Paula was introduced to John. November1957 saw their official engagement and John’s departure to the U.S.where he worked for the US coast Guard and Geodetic Survey.

In April 1958 after graduating from flight attendant school, Paolastarted working for Alitalia. She flew National and internationalflights and received an award and promotion to Senior Attendant inOctober 1958.

On December 20, 1958, John and Paola exchanged vows in SaintPeters at the Vatican City; in June 1959 they moved to Champaign-Urbana, Illinois where John was working for the US Dept. ofCommerce/Coast and Geodetic Survey. In October of the same year,John joined Department of state in D.C. where he worked as admin-istrative Assistant to Governor G. Mennen Williams of Michigan(appointed by President Kennedy as under Secretary of state forAfrican Affairs; Paola was hired by Alitalia District Sales Office inWashington as Traffic Representative and Executive Secretary.

Aug 1962, John was offered a job as Administrative Assistant withthe U.S. Naval Air Station, Sigonella and in the late 80’s was assignedas the Manpower and Planning Officer for the command.

Feb 1963 Paola was hired as the Command Secretary at the navalair station, working directly for the commanding and executiveOfficers, serving 24 COs and 24 XOs.

An Important part in John and Paola’s life is their interest in art,history, archaeology and travels. NASSIG honored John and Paola on May 4th 2004 by dedicating theCNO authorized Hoffpauir Administrative Center on NAS I to themwhich houses FFSC, HRO and Housing.

John and Paola Hoffpauir – 93 years of combined Sigonella service

J ohn Hoffpauir, parte dalla casa dei suoi genitori nello stato dellaLouisiana nel mese di agosto 1954 per arruolarsi nel corpoparacadutisti dell’Esercito Americano (Army/Airborne a Fort Campbell nello stato del Kentucky). Viene in seguito trasferito in

Germania presso il Comando 10th Special Forces Group. Dopo essersi con-gedato, John visita diverse città europee; si stabilisce a Roma ed ottiene unlavoro part-time presso l’Ambasciata Americana.

Paola, unigenita di Giuseppe e Silvia Cretara , è nata a Roma. Dopo avercompletato gli studi di ragioneria e di lingua Inglese presso il British Institute,si impiega presso la CIT (Compagnia Italiana Turismo) del Dipartimentodegli Affari Esteri dove lavora dal 1955 al 1957.

L’incontro con John avviene nel 1957 durante una Festa dell’In -dipendenza degli Stati Uniti, organizzata a Roma da un gruppo di cittadiniAmericani residenti in Italia. Nel novembre dello stesso anno, John riparteper gli Stati Uniti dove ottiene un impiego presso la Guardia Costiera ed ilProgetto di Rilevamento Geodetico (U.S. Coast Guard / Geodetic Survey).

Nell’aprile del 1958, dopo aver frequentato il corso di assistente di volo,Paola entra in Alitalia. Nell’ottobre del 1958, dopo aver volato su diversetratte nazionali ed internazionali, ottiene un prestigioso riconoscimentolavorativo e viene promossa ad assistente responsabile.

A Dicembre dello stesso anno, John e Paola si uniscono in matrimonionella Basilica di San Pietro in Vaticano. A giugno del 1959 vengono trasfer-iti per lavoro a Champaign-Urbana (Illinois) dove John si impiega pressoil Ministero del Commercio e il Progetto Rilevamento Geodetico e delleCoste; ad ottobre dello stesso anno John viene assunto dal Ministero degliEsteri USA in qualita` di Assistente del Governatore del Michigan, G.Mennen Williams (nominato Segretario per i rapporti con l’Africa dalPresidente Kennedy).

Paola viene assunta dalla Rappresentanza Commerciale Alitalia diWashington nell’ottobre del 1959.

Nell’agosto del 1962, John accetta l’offerta di trasferirsi presso la BaseAeronavale di Sigonella e di lavorare come assistente amministrativo. Neitardi anni ’80, John viene nominato Funzionario presso l’UfficioPianificazione e Reclutamento del Personale.

Nel febbraio del 1963, Paola viene assunta con la qualifica di segretariadel Comando, è stata al servizio di 24 Comandanti e 24 Vice-Comandanti.

Oltre a viaggiare, alcuni dei passatempi preferiti da John e Paola sono lebelle arti, la storia e le visite ai siti archeologici.Il 4 maggio 2004, la NAS Sigonella rende onore a John e Paola dedicandoloro, su autorizzazione del CNO, un edificio amministrativo ubicato pressole strutture logistiche della NAS 1 che ospita il Consultorio Familiare,l'Ufficio Personale Civile e l'Ufficio Alloggi.

John e Paola Hoffpauir – 93 anni di servizio in due a Sigonella


On Aug. 12, 1974, Antonino Carbonaro began workingas a clerk for COMPTROLLER. Thirty-four years later,he is one of the most senior local national employees

on base. He has ascended from his first job as clerk through theranks Sigonella to become the current Director of the NASSigonella Office of the Inspector General.

Antonino Carbonaro – 34 years at NAS Sigonella

Il 12 agosto1974, AntoninoC a r b o n a r o

inizia a lavorarecome impiegato pres-so l ’uff icio conta -bil ità (COMP-TROLLER) dellabase. Trentaquattroanni più tardi, èdiventato uno deidipendenti italianipiù anziani dellabase. Percorre tutti igradi della carrierafino all ’attualenomina di Direttoredel l ’Ufficio del -l’Ispettore Generaledella NAS Sigonella.

Quando Carbonaro arrivò per la prima volta a Sigonella, sitrovò davanti ad una base molto diversa dall'attuale. Carbonaroha assistito, nel corso degli anni, allo sviluppo di questa instal-lazione militare che si è trasformata, con il tempo, da piccolonucleo di edifici sparsi in una spazio aperto a centro nevralgicomolto attivo. “Quando sono arrivato qui, c’erano solamente pochi

Antonino Carbonaro - 34 anni lavoratii a NAS Sigonella

Antonino Carbonaro - 34 years at NAS Sigonella.

When Carbonaro first came to Sigonella it was vastly differentfrom what we know today. He has watched the base grow from afew buildings spread out over an open to field to bustling Hub ofthe Med. “When I arrived here there were only a few buildingsand open land,” Carbonaro said. “Not even the Admin. or thePW buildings were here.”

He credits job changes and a solid work ethic as the reasonsfor his continued success here. “Initially all the promotions I hadwere achieved by changing jobs,” he said. “I was initially hired as aclerk, and then after awhile I went to the accounting division. Atthat time it was called the Resource Management System office.In 1981 I moved to Internal Review, which is the office I work innow, but it was renamed throughout the years. The first threesteps of my career were just moving from one job to another job.”

The physical landscape and infrastructure of the base todayare obvious changes from what he once knew, but what hereflects on the most are the people who have come and gone. “Ihave many good memories of colleagues that are not herebecause they transferred or passed away, unfortunately,” he said.“In 34 years you realize how many things have changed. It’scompletely different.”

He stated that he enjoys the challenges of being an Italian, inessence, working in America. “We live different lives than theAmericans who work here, because for us we’re living eighthours of our life every day in here and we live the rest of our livesin Sicily. It’s like taking a plane to the states every morning. Wehave to face a different culture, different ways of working, differ-ent systems and different ways of thinking.”

edifici ed uno spazio aperto. Non c’erano ne l’Ufficio Comando eneppure gli edifici del Genio Navale”, dice Carbonaro.

Carbonaro spiega che una forte etica lavorativa ed una serie dicambi di qualifica professionale sono stati, da sempre, la chiavedel suo successo a Sigonella. “All’inizio era possibile fare carrierasolamente attraverso trasferimenti e cambi di qualifica profes-sionale. Ho iniziato a lavorare come impiegato e, dopo un certoperiodo, mi sono trasferito all’ufficio contabilità che a quei tempiera denominato “Resource Management System Office. Nel1981, mi sono trasferito all’ufficio analisi, verifica e controllo erevisione contabile e amministrativa (Internal Review), dovelavoro attualmente. Quest’ufficio ha cambiato denominazionediverse volte nel corso degli anni”, spiega Carbonaro.

L’aspetto odierno della base e delle sue infrastrutture è ovvia-mente cambiato rispetto al passato. Carbonaro si sofferma ariflettere e ricordare tutte le persone che sono passate daSigonella.

“Ho tanti ricordi legati a colleghi che non sono più qui con noiperchè si sono trasferiti o sono purtroppo deceduti. Dopo 34 annidi attività, ci si rende conto di quante cose siano cambiate oggi”,dice Carbonaro.

Carbonaro dice di apprezzare la sfida posta dall’essere unitaliano che lavora in America. “La nostra vita è diversa daquella degli americani che lavorano in base. Noi trascorriamootto ore qui ed il resto della giornata in Sicilia. E’ un po’ comeprendere l’aereo ogni mattina per gli Stati Uniti. Interagiamocon una cultura diversa , modi diversi di lavorare e pensare”,dice Carbonaro.



Eisenhower Doctrine - President Eisenhower announces “Eisenhower Doctrine,” pledgingdefense of Middle Eastern nations against communism

Dottrina Eisenhower- Il Presidente Eisenhower annuncia la “Dottrina Eisenhower” che sostenevala difesa delle nazioni mediorientali dal Comunismo

Dr. Suess classics published - “TheCat in the Hat” and “How the GrinchStole Christmas” are first published

Pubblicazione dei classici del Dr.Seuss - “Il gatto e il cappello matto” e“Come il Grinch rubò il Natale” sono leprime opere pubblicate.

Sputnik Launchedby Russians - OnOctober 4, theSoviet Unionlaunched the firstsatellite into space.The satellite, with adiameter of 22inches, marked thebeginning of theSpace Age.

I Russi lanciano loSputnik - Il 4 otto-bre, l’Urss lancia ilprimo satellite nello spazio. Il satellite aveva un diametro di circa 58centimetri e dava inizio all’Era Spaziale.

Federal TroopsIntegrated Schools inLittle Rock - After localauthorities refused to implement court-ordered desegregation,President Eisenhower ordered federal troops to do the job. He stat-ed: “The Federal Constitution will be upheld by me, by everymeans at my command.”

Le truppe federali intervengono contro la discriminazione razziale le scuole di Little Rock -In seguito al rifiuto da parte delle autorità locali di eseguire l’ordine della Corte Suprema di porre fine alla segregazione razziale, Il PresidenteEisenhower invia le truppe federali per far rispettare la legge. “Farò rispettare ad ogni costo la Costituzione Federale”, dichiara Eisenhower.

What was going on in the world? It was the year 1957...


Rome Treaty, Common Market Established - On March 25, the Rome Treaty was signed byFrance, West Germany, Italy, Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg. The treaty estab-lished the European Economic Community, otherwise known as the Common Market.

Trattato di Roma, istituzione del Mercato Comune - Il Trattato di Roma viene firmato daFrancia, Germania Ovest, Italia, Belgio, Olanda e Lussemburgo. Il trattato istituisce il MercatoComune Europeo, conosciuto anche con la denominazione di CEE.

USSR and US Launch ICBMs - In late 1957, both theUnited States and the USSR successfully launchedIntercontinental Ballistic Missiles.

URSS e gli Stati Uniti US lanciano i missili balistici inter-continentali- Alla fine del 1957, gli Stati Uniti e l’Urss lancia-no con successo i missili balistici intercontinentali.

What was going on in the world?


John Glenn Goes Transcontinental – United States Marine Major John Glenn flies an F8Usupersonic jet from California to New York in three hours, 23 minutes and eight seconds, setting anew transcontinental speed record.

John Glenn attraversa i continenti - Il maggiore dei Marines John Glenn fa volare un jet supersonicoF8U dalla California a New York in 3 ore, 23 minuti e 8 secondi, stabilendo un nuovo record di velocitàdi volo transcontinentale.

Elvis in 57 - In March 1957 Presley purchased Graceland, a former church and converted itinto a twenty three room mansion. In February “All Shook Up” began an eighteen week stretchat number #1

Elvis nel 1957- Nel marzo 1957, Elvis compra la tenuta di Graceland, una chiesa sconsacrata cheviene trasformata in una tenuta di 23 stanze. La sua canzone “All Shook Up” debutta in classifica alnumero uno, posizione che manterrà per ben 18 settimane.

Toyota Enters US Markets – Toyota beginsexporting vehicles to the U.S., beginning with the Toyota Crown Royal andToyota Land Cruiser.

La Toyota entra nel mercato americano – LaToyota inizia ad esportare le sue autovetture inAmerica. I primi modelli esportati sono la “CrownRoyal” ed il “Land Cruiser”.


US Troops Land in Lebanon - President Eisenhower ordered 5,000 Marines to Lebanon tohelp maintain order after a revolt in Iraq resulted in the ouster of the pro-Western Lebanesegovernment. This followed the imposition of a pro-Soviet regime in Iraq.

La truppe USA sbarcano in Libano- Il Presidente Eisenhower invia 5.000 Marines in Libano peraiutare a mantenere l’ordine dopo lo scoppio di una rivolta, avvenuta in Iraq, che causa l’estromissio-ne del governo filo-occidentale del Libano. In seguito a questi eventi, viene instaurato un governo filo-sovietico in Iraq.

Explorer I Launched - On January31, the US put its first satellite,“Explorer I,” into orbit around theearth. The launch came after theSoviets had successfully launched asatellite called “Sputnik” one yearearlier. For a brief period, it seemedthat the Soviets had a major lead inspace. This was soon translated into

what became known as “the missile gap.”

Lancio del satellite Explorer I- Il 31 gennaio viene lanciatol’Explorer 1: è il primo satellite americano messo in orbita intornoalla Terra. Il lancio avviene un anno dopo l’invio del satellitesovietico Sputnik. Per un breve periodo, i Sovietici sembrano averela supremazia nel settore spaziale (“missile gap”).

A Chess legendbegins - At age14, Bobby Fischerwins the UnitedStates ChessChampionship

Nasce una leggenda degli scacchi – All’età di 14 anni, Bobby Fischervince i campionati americani di scacchi.

It was the year 1958...

Nautilus makes histo-ry - Nuclear submarineU.S.S. Nautilus makesthe first underwatercrossing of the NorthPole setting submergeddistance and endurancerecords.

Il Nautilus entra nellastoria- Il sottomarino adenergia nucleare della Marina degli Stati Uniti “USS Nautilus” com-pie il primo attraversamento in immersione del Polo Nord, stabilendorecords di distanza percorsa e permanenza sott’acqua.

Douglas Introduced DC- 8 - On May 30, the first prototype DC-8 made its maiden flight. The plane, powered by 4 Pratt &Whitney Turbojets, flew for 2 hours and 7 minutes.

La Douglas presenta il DC-8 - Il 30 maggio, il primo prototipo diDC-8, dotato di quattro motori turbojet “Pratt & Whitney” effettua ilsuo volo inaugurale volando per due ore e sette minuti.


Elvis in 58 – Elvis Presley joined the Army and was shipped to Bremerhaven, WestGermany for his tour.

Elvis nel 1958- Elvis Presley si arruola nell’Esercito e viene inviato in GermaniaOccidentale per prestare servizio oltreoceano a Bremerhaven.

F-4 Phantom Unveiled By Mcdonell- Douglas - The F-4 was firstunveiled by McDonnell-Douglas in 1958. It soon became the backboneof the US Airforce, serving in twin roles, as both an interceptor as well asa ground support bomber. It served as the frontline American aircraft inthe Vietnam War. The Phantom was also used by the Navy as the pre-mier carrier-based fighter.

La Mcdonell- Douglas presenta l’F-4 “Phantom” – La Mcdonell- Douglaspresenta il suo primo velivolo F-4 nel 1958. Questo aereo diventa la “spinadorsale” dell’Aviazione USA grazie alla sua doppia funzione di intercettore e cacciabombardiere. Il Phantom viene impiegato in prima linea nellaGuerra del Vietnam ed usato dalla Marina come principale aereo imbarcato a bordo di portaerei.

Pan Am introduced 707 Service Across Atlantic - Pan Am introduced 707 trans-Atlantic jet ser-vice on October 27, when its first 707, named “Clipper America”, set off for Paris from Idlewild,New York.

La Pan Am lancia la prima tratta d’oltreoceano effettuata dal Boeing 707- Il 27 ottobre, la PanAm inaugura il primo volo transatlantico del suo Boeing 707, velivolo dotato di motori a getto e sopran-nominato “Clipper America”, partendo dall’aeroporto di Idlewild (New York) con destinazione Parigi.

Naval Air Station, Sigonella 59Heroes Brought Home – The bodies of unidentified soldiers killed inaction during World War II and the Korean War are buried at the Tomb ofthe Unknown in Arlington National Cemetery.

Gli eroi tornano a casa – Le salme dei militi ignoti morti in combattimentodurante la Seconda Guerra Mondiale e la Guerra di Corea vengono sepoltenella Tomba del Milite Ignoto presso il cimitero militare “Arlington NationalCemetery”.

U.S. 49th State Created – President Dwight d. Eisenhower signs the AlaskaStatehood Act into United States law making Alaska the 49th State.

Proclamazione della nascita del 49° stato - Il Presidente Dwight d. Eisenhower firmal’Alaska Statehood Act, facendolo diventare legge degli Stati Uniti. L’Alaska entra a farparte nell’Unione come 49° stato.

Microchip born - Jack Kilby and Robert Noyce independentlyand simultaneously create the first working prototypes of theIntegrated Circuit or microchip.

Creazione del primo microchip - Jack Kilby e Robert Noyce metto-no a punto indipendentemente e simultaneamente il primo prototipofunzionante di circuito integrato ovvero microchip.


It was the year 1959...

Cuban Revolution Ends – The Cuban Revolution comes to anend and Fidel Castro takes power as premier of Cuba

Fine della Rivoluzione Cubana - La Rivoluzione Cubana si concludecon con la presa del potere da parte di Fidel Castro.

Buddy Holly Dies - Achartered plane trans-porting MusiciansBuddy Holly, RitchieValens and the BigBopper goes down infoggy conditions nearclear lake, Iowa, killingall four occupantsincluding the pilotRoger Peterson.

Morte di Buddy Holly –L’aereo che trasporta imusicisti Buddy Holly,Ritchie Valens e Big Bopper precipita vicino Clear Lake, nello Iowa, acausa della fitta nebbia, uccidendo tutti e quattro i musicisti ed il pilo-ta Roger Peterson.

US 50th State Created– Hawaii is admitted asthe 50th State.

Nascita del 50° Stato –Le Hawaii vengonoammesse nell’Unionecome 50° stato.

First Astronauts – NASA names the first seven astronauts; Alan B. Shepard,Virgil I. Grissom, John A. Glenn, Jr., M. Scott Carpenter, Walter M. Schirra, L.Gordon Cooper and Donald “Deke” Slayton.

Primi astronauti – La NASA annuncia il primo gruppo di sette astronauti: Alan B.Shepard, Virgil I. Grissom, John A. Glenn, Jr., M. Scott Carpenter, Walter M. Schirra,L. Gordon Cooper e Donald “Deke” Slayton.

Naval Air Station, Sigonella 61Barbie begins - Barbie, thepopular girls’ doll, debuted,over 800 million sold

Comincia il successo dellabambola Barbie – Barbie, lafamosa bambola per ragazzine,fa il suo debutto. Vengono ven-duti più di 800 milioni di esem-plari.

First TV Photo From Space -Explorer 6 transmits first TVphoto of Earth from space

Prima immagine della Terradallo Spazio – L’Explorer 6 tra-smette la prima foto della Terravista dallo Spazio.

ADM Arleigh Burke -ADM Arleigh Burke reap-pointed CNO for 3rd 2year term, serving longestterm as CNO

Ammiraglio Arleigh Burke– L’Ammiraglio Burke vieneconfermato per il terzo man-dato di 2 anni Capo delleOperazioni Navali, divenen-do così l’ammiraglio che haricoperto più a lungo questoincarico.

First Ballistic Submarine - The George Washington, first ballis-tic missile sub commissioned 30 December at Groton CT.

Primo sottomarino lanciamissili balistici – Il George Washington,primo sottomarino lanciamissili balistici, entra in servizio il 30 dicem-bre a Groton (Connecticut).

Vince Lombardi -Vince Lombardisigns a 5 year con-tract to coach theGreen Bay Packers

Vince Lombardi - Vince Lombardi firma un contratto quinquen-nale per allenare i Green Bay Packers

Bonanza Begins - TheTelevision show “Bonanza”premiers

Inizio della trasmissioneBonanza - I telefilm dellaserie “Bonanza” fanno il lorodebutto.


Capt. W.J. FrazierJune 1959-July 1961

Capt. V.V. UtgoffJuly 1961-May 1963

Capt. L.E.DonerJuly 1963-August 1965

Capt. J.H. CaldwellAugust 1965-July 1967

Capt. J.C. FoxJuly 1967-July 1969

Capt. W.R. ChealJuly 1969-Nov. 1970

Capt. R.W. JacksonNov. 1970-June 1972

Capt. C.L. von SchraderJune 1972-Sept. 1974

Capt. W.A. PlatteSept. 1974-Sept. 1976

Capt. M.F. PasztalaniecSept. 1976-June 1978

Capt. J.B. KramerSept. 1978-August 1980

Capt. W.H. ComptonAugust 1980-June 1982

NAS Sigonella Commanding Officers 1959-2009


Capt. L.H. GrafelJune 1982-June 1984

Capt. W.R. SpearmanJune 1984-August 1986

Capt. F.L. HudnorAugust 1986-July 1988

Capt. R.S. ParodiJuly 1988-Sept. 1990

Capt. M.G. BrunerSept. 1990-July 1992

Capt. S.R. ArendsJuly 1992-June 1994

Capt. S.R. BarnettJune 1994-Sept. 1996

Capt. W.J. TysonSept. 1996-Sept. 1998

Capt. A.J. NelsonSept. 1998-July 2001

Capt. T.L. DavisonJuly 2001-June 2004

Capt. J. StuyvesantJune 2004-May 2007

Capt. T.J. QuinnMay 2007-

NAS Sigonella Commanding Officers 1959-2009

Naval Air Station Sigonella's 50th Anniversary Book

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Transcript of Naval Air Station Sigonella's 50th Anniversary Book