NAS WHIDBEY ISLAND ALL HANDS
(GENERAL INFORMATION)

If you have submissions for the weekly All Hands General Information email, please send all requests to: naswipao@us.navy.mil
 
THIS WEEK:
Labor Day Gate Hours
Tricare Prime Travel Benefit
9/11 Interview Request
National Preparedness Month
Health Information - Caffeine
988 Day
Anacortes Lacrosse Club (ALC)
Transition to DOD Alert Mass Warning and Notification System
Election Calendar and Voting Information
Approved Transportation Service Providers
NMCRS Updates
Columbia College
Back-To-School Fire Safety
Wings of Hope Chapel Programs
Crime Prevention 2^nd QTR 2026
NASWI Honor Guard Team


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Some of the following information includes public events and does not imply endorsement by the United States Navy. It is provided for informational purposes only.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 

Labor Day Gate Hours

Friday, September 4th, 2026

Charles Porter Gate – 24/7
Langley Gate - Closed
Nortz Gate – Automated until 2200.
Saratoga Gate - Closed
Torpedo Gate – 24/7
Maui Gate – 0830-1900

Saturday, September 5th, 2026

Charles Porter Gate – 24/7
Langley Gate - Closed
Nortz Gate - Closed
Saratoga Gate - Closed
Torpedo Gate – 24/7
Maui Gate – 0830 – 1930

Sunday, September 6th, 2026

Charles Porter Gate – 24/7
Langley Gate - Closed
Nortz Gate - Closed
Saratoga Gate - Closed
Torpedo Gate – 24/7
Maui Gate – 0830 – 1930

Monday, September 7th, 2026

Charles Porter Gate – 24/7
Langley Gate - Closed
Nortz Gate – Closed
Saratoga Gate - Closed
Torpedo Gate – 24/7
Maui Gate – Closed

 

TRICARE Prime Travel Benefit

For dependents enrolled in the TRICARE Prime or US Family Health Care Plan and have been referred by your Primary Care Manager (PCM) for necessary specialty care more than 75 miles from your PCM’s office, you may be entitled to TRICARE Prime Travel Benefit.

This benefit entitles dependents to get reimbursed for travel-related expenses such as lodging, meals, parking, and more. To learn more and to find out if you qualify, visit Tricare.mil or contact the local NASWI Tricare Benefits Advisor. For Exceptional Family Member Program related questions or concerns, reach out to your NASWI EFMP Case Liaison.
 

9/11 Interview Request

 

A reporter with the Everett Post is seeking interviews with people regarding their experiences and/or actions regarding the attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. If anyone is interested in participating in an interview, please contact the base public affairs officer at michael.t.welding.civ@us.navy.mil, or call ext. 7-2962

National Preparedness Month

PREPARE TODAY. PROTECT TOMORROW.
National Preparedness Month | September 2026

September is National Preparedness Month, an annual opportunity to strengthen readiness across the Navy community. For 2026, the Military Services are using the campaign message “Prepare Today. Protect Tomorrow.” to reinforce a simple principle: actions taken before an emergency can help protect our people, our homes, our installations, and our mission.
Commander, Navy Installations Command encourages Sailors, civilian employees, contractors, tenant commands, and Navy families to use the month to assess personal and family readiness. Preparedness begins before an emergency occurs and includes knowing what to do, maintaining essential supplies, receiving trusted information, and accounting for family-specific needs.
Four actions for September
•           MAKE A PLAN - Know where to go, how to communicate, and what your family will do if separated.
•           BUILD A KIT - Maintain emergency supplies to support basic needs when normal services are disrupted.
•           STAY INFORMED - Know local hazards, understand protective actions, and know how your installation will warn you.
•           NAVY FAMILY READINESS - Keep Navy accountability information current and ensure your plan addresses the needs of every member of your family.
National Preparedness Month is a reminder that readiness is a shared responsibility. Small actions taken now can reduce uncertainty, strengthen resilience, and help the Navy community remain ready when conditions change.

MAKE A PLAN
Knowing what to do before an emergency can reduce confusion when time and information are limited. Your family may not be together when an emergency occurs, so a written plan should identify how you will communicate, where you will meet, and where you may go if you cannot remain at home.

Points of Emphasis

• Identify at least two meeting locations and an out-of-area contact who can help family members reconnect.
• Discuss evacuation and shelter-in-place considerations before an emergency. Know more than one route and follow direction from appropriate local or installation officials.
• Keep important contact, medical, insurance, and other essential information accessible. Consider secure electronic copies of critical records.
• Include pets and family members who may need additional assistance. Plan for medications, transportation, mobility, communication, and other individual needs.
• Practice your plan. Everyone in the household should understand what to do if normal communications are disrupted.

THIS WEEK'S ACTION: Review your family emergency plan with everyone in your household. If you do not have one, start one this week.
Prepare today. Protect tomorrow.

Health Information – Caffeine

Do you start out your day with a caffeinated beverage? Continue to consume
caffeine throughout the workday? 

Caffeine is the most widely-used stimulant in the world. It's in coffee,
tea, soda, energy drinks, and energy shots, as well as some sports gels,
dietary supplements, over-the-counter medications, and combat rations
(pudding, gum, and mints). In moderate doses, caffeine can boost physical
and mental performance. However, too much caffeine can have negative
consequences, so be careful how much you consume.

Caffeine Tips * Consider ALL sources of caffeine in your diet, including
foods, beverages, and dietary supplements * Do not exceed 600 mg caffeine
per 24 hours (800 mg for sustained operations) * Avoid consuming caffeine
4-6 hours before bedtime * Energy drinks should not be consumed by children
or during pregnancy * Do not mix energy drinks with alcohol

Additional information can be found at: https://www.opss.org/
 

988 Day

MARK YOUR CALENDAR.....September 8th, is 988 Day. 988 Day is a Day of Action
to bring awareness about the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

WHAT IS 988?
988 is the national mental health hotline that's available 24/7 across the
U.S by text, phone, and chat. You can reach out for any reason: when you're
struggling with your mental health, feeling overwhelmed, arguing with family
or friends, or just need someone to vent to.

MYTH: 988 IS ONLY FOR EMERGENCIES
It's a myth that 988 is only for emergencies. You can reach out if you or
someone you care about is feeling anxious, stressed, stuck, or having a
rough day. If something's bothering you, that's a good reason to talk.
There's never any shame in reaching out.

CHECK IN WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS
Checking in with family and friends about their mental health can make a
difference. You can do this without making a big deal. Send a snap or text,
ask to hang out, let them know it's okay to not be ok, recognize the warning
signs of something more serious. You can also contact 988 for advice if you
are concerned about a family member or friend.

ASKING FOR HELP
When you contact 988, you don't have to share your name or where you're
calling from? Even if you're not sure what to say, you could start with
something simple like "I'm not feeling great today," or "Today didn't do it
for me." 988 counselors are available to listen without judgment, support
you, and make it easier to ask for help and plan next steps.

988 WORKS
Did you know that research confirms 98% of people who call, text, or chat
with 988 get the support they need immediately and without emergency help?
That means most people just need someone to listen, and 988 is here for
that. Sometimes, one conversation is all it takes to start feeling better.
988 counselors are available for you or someone you care about. Connect with
a skilled counselor 24/7 for judgment-free support: call or text 988 or chat
at https://988lifeline.org/

Anacortes Lacrosse Club (ALC)

Are you looking for an exciting alternative to baseball for your kids this spring?

The Anacortes Lacrosse Club is the closest option for Oak Harbor youth, welcoming boys and girls of all experience levels from kindergarten through 8th grade. Lacrosse is a fast-paced, high-energy sport that combines the physicality of football, the endurance of soccer, and the pick and roll of basketball—offering players a fast paced, physical, lull-free alternative to baseball.

Registration opens in November. For more information, please visit https://anacorteslacrosse.sportngin.com/

Transition to DOD Alert Mass Warning and Notification System

The Navy is transitioning to the DOD Alert! Mass Warning and Notification System, which officially replaces the legacy AtHoc alerting system. In accordance with DODI 6055.17, registration and profile updates in the new system are mandatory for all personnel.

This system will be the primary method for mass warnings and notifications at the installations. To ensure you receive critical alerts, you must complete the following actions:

1. Update Your Contact Information
   Log in to the Alert! Client Dashboard (https://dod.alert.mil) and add the following to your profile:

• Emails: Home (personal) and Work (official)
• Phones: Home (personal) and Teams/Work phone(s)
• Note: For all text-capable phones, you must check the "Receives Text Messages" radio button to enable text alerts.

 

2. Add/Update Your Associations

• Military Location: Add/update the location where you support the USN.
• Army/USMC Installations: If you work at a U.S. Army or USMC installation, add that location as well.
• IMPORTANT: Do NOT add your Command Structure (UIC) or Additional Attributes at this time. Further instructions for this will be provided in Q4 FY26.

Need Assistance?
If you have any trouble with this process, you can contact the Alert! 24/7 Helpdesk:

• CONUS: 866-515-0551
• Email: usarmy.detroit.devcom-gvsc.mbx.em2p-help-desk@army.mil

Please complete these steps as soon as possible to maintain 100% accountability and ensure you receive time-sensitive information.

Election Calendar and Voting Information

The November midterm elections are just around the corner, and primaries have already begun in many cities and states. Please see the link below to register to vote, find registration and ballot submission deadlines, and answer any other questions you might have about absentee voting for your state. https://www.fvap.gov/

Approved Transportation Service Providers

Transportation Service Providers allowed on base are listed at the bottom of the following website page.
https://cnrnw.cnic.navy.mil/Installations/NAS-Whidbey-Island/Base-Access-Real-ID-Act-VA-Requirements/

 

NMCRS Updates

NAVY-MARINE CORPS RELIEF SOCIETY – Seaplane Base, Bldg. 13, 360-257-2728
whidbeyisland@nmcrs.org

*** OUR OFFICE AND THRIFT STORE WILL BE CLOSED FRIDAY, 4 SEP THROUGH MON, 7 SEP. WE WILL REOPEN ON TUESDAY, 8 SEP FOR NORMAL BUSINESS. ***

***NEXT THRIFT STORE SATURDAY SHOPPING OPPORTUNITY IS 12 SEPT FROM 1000-1300***

THRIFT STORE – Our Thrift Store is open for Active Duty, their dependents and retirees – 100% volunteer staff.
            SHOPPING: Tues 1000-1600, Thurs 1000-1800. Sat 1000-1300: 12 Sep, 25 Sep, 17 Oct, 21 Nov
            DONATIONS: Thursdays 1000-1730.

UNIFORM SHOP - Active Duty - Mon-Fri. 0800-1600
            Uniform donation box located in Nor’Wester/FFSC lobby or donate at the Thrift Shop.

VOLUNTEERING – Flexible times! Weekdays: anytime from 0800-1600 (extended hours on Thurs 0800-1815) and select Saturdays (0930-1315)!
Thrift Shop - Stop by or Signup at: https://volunteersignup.org/J4H7M  (copy/paste it into your web browser). Whether you have 30 minutes or a few hours – it all helps! All volunteer hours count towards your Volunteer Service Medal (MOVSM).
Office Volunteer options: Call or email for more info.

FINANCIAL/EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE - 0% Interest Loans and Grants 0800-1600 MON-FRI
            Emergency Travel, Rent/Deposits/Food, Utilities, Phone, Car Repairs, Payments & Insurance, Pay/ PCS issues,
               Dental and more. Free/Confidential. Budgeting Assistance.

BUDGET 4 BABY CLASS (B4B) – New baby or expecting a baby? $50 Amazon e-card for attending our one-hour class!
Sign up by calling 257-2728 or email: whidbeyisland@nmcrs.org
CLASS DATES (ALL CLASSES ARE IN SEAT):
Upcoming classes:
1000-1100: 9 Sep, 7 Oct, 4 Nov, 9 Dec
1730-1830: 24 Sep, 22 Oct, 19 Nov, 17 Dec

• We can come to your command if you have multiple service members interested.
• One-on-one classes can be scheduled if time is limited due to deployment, pcs, etc.

VISITING NURSE – Call Nurse Becky at 360-257-2724 for appointments or questions.
 

Columbia College

Columbia College is consistently ranked as one of the most Military Friendly Schools in the U.S. Our Early Fall session starts August 31^st 2026, and runs to October 24^th, 2026. Registration is going on for the all AY 26 sessions. Reminder that Tuition Assistance needs to be command approved one week prior to the start of the session. Our office is in the NOSC Building 2739, Room 116 and no appointment is necessary. Our office hours are Monday – Friday 8:00 – 4:00.  You can also email us at Whidbey@CCIS.edu or give us a call at (360) 279-9030. We offer in seat, virtual, and online classes in an 8-week format. Stop by and check out how we can help you achieve your educational goals.

Columbia College is also privileged to offer both CLEP and DSST exams for anyone interested in achieving college credit through these programs. CLEP and DSST exams are offered every Tuesday at 1000 and 1300. Call or stop by and we will be happy to assist! 

Back-To-School Fire Safety

Smoke Alarm Readiness

-           Test every alarm in your home and replace batteries
-           Make sure kids recognize the alarm sound and know it means get out immediately.
-           Replace outdated alarms per manufacturer guidance.

Home Escape Planning

-           Draw a simple home map with two ways out of every room
-           Clear exit paths and ensure windows open easily.
-           Pick a meeting spot outside (tree, mailbox)
-           Practice twice a year – beginning and end of the school year.

Kitchen & After – School snack safety

-           Set rules for which appliances they may use alone – teach kids to stay with food while it cooks.
-           Keep combustibles (towels, napkins) away from heat sources.

Electrical & Homework Tech Safety

-           Inspect cords for fraying or exposed wires.
-           Avoid daisy-chaining power strips.
-           Keep electronics on ventilated surfaces.
-           Unplug devices when not in use.

“As the school year begins, make safety part of your daily routine.  A few minutes of preparation today keeps your family protected all year.”

 Wings of Hope Chapel  Religious Programs 

100% confidential counseling with Chaplain Miller and Chaplain Caldwell

Appointments can be made using the following link:
https://outlook-dod.office365.us/bookwithme/user/cf51945e5e5a4b1a9d0d87fc140

For more information about Religious Accommodations, please reach out to the Chapel at (360)-257-2414
Faith and Leadership Luncheon sponsored by the NASWI Chapel and Officer Christian Fellowship. Wednesday May 27 from 1130-1245 at the Wings of Hope Chapel. Topic will be: Essential Leadership, Essential Faith, “Perseverance through Rejection: Jeremiah’s leadership Challenge.”

Weekly Chapel Religious Services:

Anglican Holy Communion: Every Wednesday 1230-1300
Location: Base Chapel; Blessed Sacrament Chapel
 

Service	Day & Time	Location
Protestant Service	Every Sunday 1000 – 1100	Base Chapel: Main Sanctuary
Catholic Mass	Every Sunday 1130- 1230	Base Chapel; Main Sanctuary
Jumu'ah Prayer (Muslim)	Every Friday 1230-1400	Base Chapel: Prayer Room (154) across from small fellowship hall

 
Fellowship and Bible Studies:

Fellowship                                      Date & Time	Location	Location
The Church of Jesus Christ of     Wednesdays 1800-1900	Base Chapel; Growler Room (Rm 151)	Base Chapel; Growler Room (Room 151)
Navigators Christian Fellowship   Sundays 1100-1130	Base Chapel; Growler Room (Rm 151)	Base Chapel; Growler Room (Room 151)
Officers Christian Fellowship       Call ext .7-2414	Base Chapel; Growler Room (Rm 151)	Base Chapel; Growler Room (Rm 151)

Green Ribbon Program Information: Please Call RP2 Sumner at 260-257-1885 

safeTALK	ASIST
	25-26 Aug 2026
9-Sep-26	22-23 Sep 2026
14-Oct-26	27-28 Oct 2026
4-Nov-26	17-18 Nov 2026

 
-Space available in the Chapel for private prayer, meditation or reflection.
-Need to find a place to worship or a fellowship group? Contact the Chapel at 360-257-2414

Getting Married? Had a Baby? Had a religious epiphany?
Weddings, baptisms, confirmations, etc. Chaplain Miller can help with those religious rites tied to major events in your life.

CREDO Retreats:
Navy CREDO inspires hope, builds healthy relationships, and strengthens resiliency, unit cohesion and spiritual fitness. 100% Free.
For more information please call (360)-257-2414

CREDO Northwest has reserved three dates at High Trek Adventures for commands interested in a fun and engaging team-building experience. (More information about the park is available here https://www.hightrekeverett.com/tickets/mini-golf)
The remaining date is:

• 27 August

Each date can accommodate up to 40 Sailors and is designed to strengthen teamwork, communication, and camaraderie.
This opportunity is provided at no cost to the command. CREDO Northwest can also provide transportation (with sufficient advance notice) and lunch.
If your command is interested in participating or would like additional information, please contact Chaplain Stacie Powell at CREDO DET NASWI/ Cell: 1-858-210-1000, Office: 1-360-257-4516, email stacie.l.powell2.mil@us.navy.mil
Space is limited, and reservations will be made on a first-come, first-served basis.

Other Future CREDO activities are available here.

CREDO Family Enrichment Workshop at High Trek Adventures
CREDO Northwest Family Enrichment Retreats
CREDO Northwest Marriage Enrichment Retreats
CREDO Northwest Marriage Enrichment Expedition
Get Better Together (GBT) Couples Retreat


 

Crime Prevention –3rd QTR 2026

TIPS TO KEEP YOUR HOME SAFE

Summer Safety Tips
Don’t Become a Victim of Summertime Crime
Summer is the perfect time for a family break, but criminals don’t take a summer break.
According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, – “Household property crimes exhibited a pattern of seasonal fluctuations from 1993 to 2010. The most common pattern for household property crimes was that victimization occurred at higher rates during the summer than during other seasons.
Visit www.ncpc.org  to get the free McGruff Mobile App, download for free on iTunes or Google Play.
Summary: 6 Essential Safety Tips

• Lock All Entries: Always lock home, garage, and vehicle doors and windows immediately.
• Secure Valuables: Keep prized possessions hidden from view in vehicle trunks or hotel safes.
• Use Light Timers: Set home lights on timers to create an impression of occupancy.
• Delay social media: Wait until returning home from trips to post vacation photos online.
• Secure Purses & Bags: Zip bags fully and avoid hanging them on restaurant chairs.
• Establish Meeting Plans: Create a designated backup meeting spot and time for family outings

“If you see something – Say something.”
Contact the base Security Department at (360) 257-3893 or dial 911 immediately. 

NASWI Honor Guard Team

 
The NASWI Honor Guard is looking for dedicated Sailors interested in joining the base’s Honor Guard Team. The Honor Guard Team conducts funeral honors for veterans and color guards for various ceremonies.
Joining the Honor Guard is an excellent way for sailors to:
 

• Enhance their competitiveness for special program packages and promotions.
• Strengthen their professional development and leadership skills.
• Represent the Navy with distinction and honor.
• Team Members who participate in 30 services will receive a Navy Achievement Medal.

 
Sailors who are interested in learning more can attend the weekly training event held in Building 385, the base headquarters building. The training is held in the building’s basement. Please ask the quarterdeck watch for directions if you are unsure of whether to go.

The training schedule and location details are as follows:

Day	Time	Location
Monday	1300	Honor Guard Room (Basement of Bldg 385 / "White House")
Wednesday	1000	Honor Guard Room (Basement of Bldg 385 / "White House")
Friday	1300	Honor Guard Room (Basement of Bldg 385 / "White House")

 
All personnel interested in volunteering with the Honor Guard are welcome and encouraged to attend.

For more information, please contact MA1 (NSF/EXW) Christopher Dodds at extension 7-3639 or via email at christopher.f.dodds.mil@us.navy.mil