NORFOLK, Va. - Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Allen Pruter, a Princess Anne High School graduate and native of Virginia Beach, Virginia, is currently serving aboard USS New Hampshire, a Virginia-class nuclear-powered fast-attack submarine.
Pruter is a machinist's mate (nuclear) responsible for performing duties in nuclear propulsion plants operating reactor control, propulsion, and power generation systems, which are essential for the day to day operations of the submarine.
“I support my boat’s mission by exercising the plant for drills,” Pruter said.
New Hampshire is a flexible, multi-mission platform designed to carry out the seven core competencies of the submarine force: anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, delivery of special operations forces, strike warfare, irregular warfare, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance and mine warfare.
As the most modern and sophisticated attack submarine in the world, New Hampshire can operate in both littoral and deep ocean environments and presents combatant commanders with a broad and unique range of operational capabilities.
Though there are many ways for sailors to earn distinction in their command, community and career, Pruter is most proud of seeing junior sailors that he trains, learn to take on more responsibility.
“My favorite part about what I do, is training junior mechanics to operate and maintain equipment in the engine room,” Pruter said.
The submarine is 362 feet long and 32 feet wide and weighs nearly 7,800 tons, powered by a nuclear reactor to push the boat through water at speeds of more than 30 knots while submerged.
As one of 134 crew members aboard the submarine, Pruter and other sailors are building a legacy that will last beyond their lifetimes. Crew members know how important it is for the Navy to develop new war fighting capabilities to continue their success on the world’s oceans.
“I joined the Navy to help support my family,” Pruter said.