by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Sarah Horne, SUBLANT Public Affairs Office
NORFOLK, Va. - Navy Machinist's Mate (Nuclear) 1st Class Justin Kent, an East Ridge High School graduate and Chattanooga, Tennessee, native, is currently serving at U.S. Command, Submarine Squadron (COMSUBRON) Six stationed in Norfolk, Virginia.
COMSUBRON Six provides operational control of multiple fast-attack submarines, and Kent plays a big part in managing the power plant operations for those units.
“I am comparable to a regional manager of chemistry and radiological controls for power plant operations,” Kent said. “I provide operational support, logistics and administrative support to twelve fast-attack nuclear submarines in support of the Atlantic Submarine Force and operations around the world as the squadron chemistry and radiological controls assistant.”
Kent joined the military to serve his country and better himself, following in the footsteps of his grandfather, Dale Kent, who served in the Air Force as a Jet Engine Mechanic from 1954 to 1960.
He said he is most proud of his continued success and forward progress in his role at his command with his favorite part of his day being the camaraderie.
“My favorite aspect would be the camaraderie that exists in the submarine force," Kent said. "It is something that lasts a lifetime."
He also truly enjoys mentoring his peers and watching them grow professionally and personally.
“I enjoy the mentorship of sailors mostly because it is rewarding to see junior and senior sailors grow and excel in their professional and personal lives," Kent said.
In his off-duty time, his favorite thing to do is spend time with his family.
Fast-attack submarines are flexible, multi-mission platforms designed to carry out the seven core competencies of the submarine force: anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, delivery of special operation forces, strike warfare, irregular warfare, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance and mine warfare. The Virginia-class submarines are 377 feet long and 34 feet wide and weighs nearly 7,800 tons, powered by a nuclear reactor to push the boat through the water at speeds of more than 25 knots while submerged.
As the most modern and sophisticated attack submarines in the world, the submarines can operate in both littoral and deep ocean environments and presents combatant commanders with a broad and unique range of operational capabilities.