By U.S. Navy Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Steve
Watterworth , Navy Office of Community Outreach Public Affairs
PEARL HARBOR - A 2010 Watauga High School graduate and Boone, North
Carolina native is serving in the U.S. Navy as part of a crew working
aboard one of the world’s most advanced nuclear-powered fast attack submarines,
USS Santa Fe.
Petty Officer 2nd Class Dakota Johnson is a machinist’s mate (nuclear power) serving aboard
the Pearl Harbor-based submarine, one of 40 Los Angeles-class submarines making
it the backbone of the submarine force.
A Navy machinist’s mate is
responsible for servicing
the mechanical and thermodynamic aspects of the reactor plant.
“This job challenges me,” said Johnson. “I like figuring out ways to fix new problems.”
With a crew of 130, this submarine is 360 feet long and weighs
approximately 6,900 tons. A nuclear-powered propulsion system helps push the
submarine through the water at more than 25 mph.
Attack submarines are designed to hunt down and destroy enemy submarines
and surface ships; strike targets ashore with cruise missiles; carry and
deliver Navy SEALs; carry out intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance
missions; and engage in mine warfare. Their primary tactical advantage is
stealth, operating undetected under the sea for long periods of time.
“Submarine sailors never cease to amaze me
with their ability to complete complex missions in the world’s most challenging
environments,” said Rear Adm. Fritz Roegge, Commander, Submarine Force, U.S.
Pacific Fleet. “Continued U.S. undersea superiority is not possible without
their dedication, expertise and professionalism.”
According to Navy officials, because of the demanding
environment aboard submarines, personnel are accepted only after rigorous
testing and observation. Submariners are some of the most highly trained and
skilled people in the Navy. The training is highly technical and each crew has
to be able to operate, maintain, and repair every system or piece of equipment
on board. Regardless of their specialty,
everyone also has to learn how everything on the ship works and how to respond
in emergencies to become “qualified in submarines” and earn the right to wear
the coveted gold or silver dolphins on their uniform.
“Everybody is
part of the community on this submarine,” added Johnson. “We are very close and
can put our lives in the hands of the guy next to us without any hesitation.”
Challenging submarine living conditions
actually build strong fellowship among the crew, Johnson explained. The crews are highly motivated, and quickly
adapt to changing conditions. It is a
busy life of specialized work, watches, and drills.
“I get the chance
to do things other's don’t or won’t get the chance to do,” added Johnson. “Serving in the Navy submariner
community has been a great opportunity in my life.”