By U.S.
Navy Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Steve Watterworth, Navy Office of Community
Outreach Public Affairs
PEARL HARBOR - A 2010 McKinney North High School
graduate and McKinney, Texas native is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard one of
the world’s most advanced nuclear-powered fast attack submarines, USS Cheyenne.
Petty Officer 2nd
Class Brandon Ackerman is an electronics technician, nuclear serving aboard the
Pearl Harbor-based submarine, one of 40 Los Angeles-class submarines making it
the backbone of the submarine force.
A Navy electronics technician, nuclear is
responsible for operating instruments and control equipment in the engine room.
“I'm studying for maintenance qualifications,
which takes about six months to earn,” said Ackerman. “I need to know chemistry
and radiological controls.” He added, “I'm 24 and learning how to repair
nuclear reactors.
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 live in Hawaii and I'm seeing the world from a
Navy submarine,” said Ackerman.
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.
“College wasn't working out and I wanted to do
something with my life,” added Ackerman. "