Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON)(SS/SW) Rick D. West released the following Submarine birthday message to the fleet April 11.
“Happy 112th Birthday Shipmates! The Submarine Force has had a great year! With the design of a new Class in progress, the commissioning of USS California (SSN 781) in October and the introduction of women on submarines, the community and its Sailors are ready for both today’s missions and tomorrow’s challenges. The force is truly a crucial part of the greatest Navy the world has ever known, and critical to the security of our nation and freedom around the world.
You operate in complex, high consequence environments where vigilance is always required. More than ever, America requires a robust submarine capability to gather critical intelligence, maintain strategic deterrence, and prepare the battlespace for joint forces in a world of evolving and unpredictable challenges.
But our boats don’t do it alone. There are those whose expertise allows our submarines to stay mission ready: The submarine headquarters staffs ashore (Force, Group and Squadron), the nation’s two submarine tenders, service support commands, and training commands. And there are remarkable families, who often times have the hardest job of keeping life on track back in homeport. Together, they do the difficult work it takes to ensure we are sending our Submariners to sea ready to do what the nation asks of them.
The most technologically advanced equipment means nothing without a 21st Century Sailor running it. Our submarine Sailors are the strength and foundation of a ready force. This point is driven home by Naval Submarine Base, Kings Bay recently placing first in the Large Shore Command category for the Health, Safety and Fitness Flagship award, sponsored by the Naval Education and Training Command.
Thank you Shipmates, for demonstrating the dedication and teamwork needed to sail safely, swiftly and silently, and for your many mission successes around the world.
For those who have worn the coveted dolphins and retired from service thank you too for your contributions and influence on our modern day Submarine Warriors.
Happy Birthday, Submariners! You may be called the silent force but your contribution to our great Navy speaks volumes.
[mappress] Naval Today Staff , April 12, 2012; Image: navy