By U.S. Navy Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Steve
Watterworth, Navy Office of Community Outreach Public Affairs
PEARL HARBOR - A 1996 Burke County Comprehensive High School graduate
and Midville, Georgia 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.
Chief Raven Rachels
is a machinist’s mate serving aboard the
Pearl Harbor-based submarine, one of 40 Los Angeles-class submarines making it
the backbone of the submarine force.
The Navy machinist’s mate is
responsible for all the auxiliary systems not
associated with the reactor plant on the ship.
“The challenge to reach the standard set
by this command is the best part of the job,” said Rachels, noting that the Santa Fe was recently
decorated with the ‘Battle-E’ award. “We’re the best boat in the squadron.”
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 is
sense of family and camaradarie unlike any other aboard this sub,” said Rachels.
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 best thing about being in the Navy is
that you have the opportunity to give back
to your country,” added Rachels.