By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Steve Watterworth, Navy Office
of Community Outreach Public Affairs
PEARL HARBOR - A 2009 Kenwood High School graduate and Clarksville,
Tennessee 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
City of Corpus Christi.
Seaman Emmanuel Johnson is a sonar technician (submarine) serving aboard
the Pearl Harbor-based submarine, one of 40 Los Angeles-class submarines making
it the backbone of the submarine force.
A Navy sonar technician is the eyes and ears of the sub, responsible for
its safe navigation while underway.
“I get to go places, see the world, and live in Hawaii,” said Johnson. “I
have no complaints. My job is really great”
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 best part about serving aboard this sub is definitely the good crew
we have,” said Johnson.
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.
“Serving my country is what motivates me," added Johnson. "I
enjoy protecting our liberties. And it makes my mom proud."