By U.S. Navy Chief Mass Communication Specialist Bill
Steele, Navy Office of Community Outreach Public Affairs
PEARL HARBOR - A 2001
graduate of Jonesborough High School in Atlanta,
Georgia and Hunstville, Alabama
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.
Seaman John Coleman
is a logistics 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 logistics specialist
is responsible for procurement and ordering
supplies, spare parts, and budgeting.
“I love seeing the world,”
said Coleman. “I like seeing new places. I've visited Japan, Singapore and Guam in the
past six months while serving in the Navy.”
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.
“I enjoy the unique opportunity serving here
has given me,” said Coleman. “Far less than one
percent of the population can say they have served aboard a submarine.”
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 in
the Navy, aboard a submarine, is something where I can look back and feel proud
that I served my country,” added Coleman.