By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Steve Watterworth, Navy Office
of Community Outreach Public Affairs
PEARL HARBOR - A 2013 Sidney Lanier High School graduate and San Antonio,
Texas 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 3rd Class Joseph Lemus is a machinist's mate (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 machinist's mate is responsible for the maintenance and operation
of all nuclear systems aboard ship.
“Serving aboard a sub, there is an ongoing challenge of trying to learn
everything as fast as possible,” said Lemus.
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 people are the best part about serving on this submarine," said
Lemus. "We look out for each other and always put the mission first."
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.
“My dad served before me, and I take pride in following in his footsteps
and doing great things for my country,” added Lemus.