By Mass
Communication Specialist 1st Class Steve Watterworth, Navy Office of
Community Outreach Public Affairs
PEARL HARBOR – A 2008 Leilehua
High School graduate and Honolulu native
is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard one of the Navy’s newest attack submarines, USS North Carolina.
Lt. j.g. Ryan Benito
is a main propulsion assistant aboard the
Pearl Harbor-based boat, one of only 12 Virginia-class attack submarines in the
Navy’s fleet. The Virginia class is
comprised of the Navy’s newest and most advanced subs.
“The greatest thing about this
job is the people,” said Benito. “I enjoy
working with the enlisted sailors.”
With a crew of 130, this
submarine is 377 feet long and weighs approximately 7,800 tons. A nuclear-powered propulsion system helps
push the submarine through the water at more than 25 mph.
“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.
“This
is an incredible submarine crew and I am proud to be part of it,” said Benito. “Working
hard with these people make the time fly.”
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 has taught me to enjoy
setting an example for others and giving back to
the community,” said Benito.