By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Steve Watterworth, Navy Office
of Community Outreach Public Affairs
PEARL HARBOR - A 2013 Weslaco High School graduate and Weslaco, 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.
Seaman Josiah Gutierrez serves aboard the Pearl Harbor-based submarine,
one of 40 Los Angeles-class submarines making it the backbone of the submarine
force.
He is responsible for navigation, communication, and entertainment
equipment.
“Compared to most Navy jobs, my job is fairly technical which I enjoy,”
said Gutierrez.
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.
“Submarines are so unique," said Gutierrez. "It is something
most people don't get a chance to work on. I'm pretty lucky!"
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 has given me a lot of opportunities," said
Gutierrez. "I really like when we come into port, watching the sub coming
in is an impressive sight.”