By U.S. Navy Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Steve
Watterworth, Navy Office of Community Outreach Public Affairs
PEARL HARBOR - A 2010 Hyde Park High School graduate and Chicago 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 3rd Class David Taylor is an electrician’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 electrician’s mate is responsible for working on the myriad pumps, motors, and generators associated with
the reactor plant.
“The people I work with are the best part
of the job,” Taylor says. “They are all dedicated equally to professionalism
and mentoring,”
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.
“The sense of
belonging we have on this sub has created an atmosphere of togetherness
and trust,” said Taylor. “We all have
each other’s backs.”
Challenging submarine living conditions
actually build strong fellowship among the elite crew, Navy officials explained. The crews are highly motivated, and
quickly adapt to changing conditions. It
is a busy life of specialized work, watches, and drills.
“Being in the
Navy is a source of pride for me, knowing that I can take care of my family and
also serve my country,” added Taylor.