KINGS BAY, Ga.- A native of Elkmont, Alabama, is serving in the U.S. Navy as part of a crew working aboard one of the world’s most advanced ballistic-missile submarines.
Navy Electronics Technician (Nuclear) 2nd Class Billy Joe Moss, who graduated from Elkmont High School in 2011, joined the Navy in 2012 and is stationed aboard the Ohio-class ballistic-missile USS Maryland (SSBN 738).“As an electronics technician, I am responsible for critical maintenance items to ensure the submarine can go out to sea as well as lead Sailors in keeping up with their administration requirements,” said Moss, who works in the reactor control division on the submarine.
A nuclear electronics technician operates and performs maintenance on systems used for monitoring and controlling a nuclear reactor onboard submarines.
“I am the lead petty officer of my division,” said Moss. “The best part of my job is to help my shipmates grow and train them to be experts in their field.”
The Navy’s ballistic-missile submarine, often referred to as “boomers”, serve as a strategic deterrent by providing an undetectable platform for submarine-launched ballistic missiles. They are designed specifically for stealth, extended patrols and precise delivery of missiles if directed by the President. The Ohio-class design allows the submarines to operate for 15 or more years between major overhauls. On average, the submarines spend 77 days at sea followed by 35 days in-port for maintenance.
Moss is part of the boat’s blue crew, one of two rotating crews, which allow the boat to be deployed on missions more often without taxing one crew too much. A typical crew on this submarine is about 150 officers and enlisted sailors.
As a member of one of the U.S. Navy’s most relied upon assets, Moss and his fellow Submariners know they are part of a legacy that will last beyond their lifetimes, one that will provide a critical component of the Navy the nation needs.
“Teamwork aboard a submarine is essential,” he said. “Whether you’re in port or out to sea, you can’t do the mission without a strong team.”
Submariners are some of the most highly-trained and skilled Sailors in the Navy. The training programs are highly technical to ensure each crew has to be able to operate, maintain, and repair every system or piece of equipment on board.
Regardless of their specialty, every Submariner also has to learn how every system on the submarine works and how to respond in emergencies. To become qualified in submarines is challenging, however earns the Sailor the right to wear the coveted “dolphins” on their uniform and life-long respect among colleagues and veterans.
“I hope to become fully qualified as Engineering Watch Supervisor,” said Moss. “But my greatest accomplishment is seeing noticeable differences is those I help to grow, as they expand and become professionals.”
Maryland, homeported at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, Ga., is the fourth U.S. Navy vessel to be named after the state. Maryland was commissioned on June 13, 1992, and is one of five Ohio-class ballistic-missile submarines stationed at the base.