By U.S. Navy Chief Mass
Communication Specialist Bill Steele, Navy Office of Community Outreach Public
Affairs
PEARL HARBOR - A 2008 West
Florida High School graduate and Pensacola, Florida 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 2nd Class
Leeroy Ybarra is a machinist's mate (auxiliary) serving aboard the Pearl
Harbor-based submarine, one of 40 Los Angeles-class submarines making it the
backbone of the submarine force.
A Navy machinist's mate is
responsible for maintaining pnuematic systems, atmospheric purification, diesel
engine maintenance, hydraulics and oxygen generation aboard a submarine.
“I enjoy working with the
wide variety of people you meet in the Navy, and I like the different ports
that we pull into," said Ybarra. "Singapore is very nice, Guam is
always a great time, and Yokosuka [Japan] is also great!"
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.
“The Corpus Christi is a
33-year old boat, and keeping her out to sea and operational is a challenge. I
like that aspect,” said Ybarra.
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.
“I have a great sense of
pride knowing that I'm protecting our country, and knowing that makes me feel
that I have earned the right to all the great benefits the military provides,”
Ybarra added.