By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Steve Watterworth,
Navy Office of Community Outreach Public Affairs
PEARL HARBOR - A 2010 Smithburg High School graduate and
Hagerstown, Maryland 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.
Petty Officer 3rd Class Jeff Stump is a culinary specialist
serving aboard the Pearl Harbor-based submarine, one of 40 Los Angeles-class
submarines making it the backbone of the submarine force.
A Navy culinary specialist is responsible for all aspects of
food service aboard the ship.
“I’m always learning new ways to prepare food,” said Stump.
“That’s what I enjoy most about this job.”
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.
“There are never any dull moments on this sub,” said Stump.
“We’re too busy to have any. It's a challenging atmosphere that keeps you on
your toes.”
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.
“The Navy is more than a job, or an adventure. It's a
responsibilty,” added Stump.