BANGOR, Wash. – An Appleton, Wisconsin, native is serving aboard USS Kentucky, one of the world’s most advanced nuclear-powered submarines.
 |
| Photo by Lt. Cmdr. Jake Joy, Navy Office of Community Outreach |
“College and I didn't really get along,” said Breitbach. “I wasn't really ready for college. I was working in unfulfilling jobs. I wanted to do something better with my life. I went to a recruiter's office, and here I am.”
Breitbach attended Appleton West High School and graduated in 2011. Today, Breitbach uses skills and values similar to those found in Appleton.
“I learned from my parents to be a man of your word,” said Breitbach. “If you say you're going to do something, do it and do it right. And while you're doing it, do your best. That's all anyone can ask.”
These lessons have helped Breitbach while serving aboard USS Kentucky.
Known as America’s “Silent Service,” the Navy’s submarine force operates a large fleet of technically advanced vessels. These submarines are capable of conducting rapid defensive and offensive operations around the world, in furtherance of U.S. national security.
There are three basic types of submarines: fast-attack submarines (SSN), ballistic-missile submarines (SSBN) and guided-missile submarines (SSGN).
Fast-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; conduct intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions; and engage in mine warfare.
The Navy's ballistic-missile submarines, often referred to as "boomers," serve as a strategic deterrent by providing an undetectable platform for submarine-launched ballistic missiles. SSBNs are designed specifically for stealth, extended patrols and the precise delivery of missiles.
Guided-missile submarines provide the Navy with unprecedented strike and special operation mission capabilities from a stealthy, clandestine platform. Each SSGN is capable of carrying 154 Tomahawk cruise missiles, plus a complement of heavyweight torpedoes to be fired through four torpedo tubes. As a member of the submarine force, Breitbach is part of a rich 121-year history of the U.S. Navy’s most versatile weapons platform, capable of taking the fight to the enemy in the defense of America and its allies.
Serving in the Navy means Breitbach is part of a team that is taking on new importance in America’s focus on rebuilding military readiness, strengthening alliances and reforming business practices in support of the National Defense Strategy.
“We deter other nations from attacking us or our allies,” said Breitbach. “You have the surface fleet which is the show of force. They're meant to be seen, and we’re not. We're ready to strike when we're called on.”
With more than 90 percent of all trade traveling by sea, and 95 percent of the world’s international phone and internet traffic carried through underwater fiber optic, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity and security of the United States is directly linked to a strong and ready Navy.
Strategic deterrence is the nation’s ultimate insurance program, and for decades Naval Submarine Base Bangor has been home to Ohio Class ballistic-missile submarines. Beginning in 2028, the new Columbia Class ballistic-missile submarines will arrive and provide continuous sea-based strategic deterrence into the 2080s.
Breitbach and other sailors have many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during their military service.
“I’m most proud about qualifying as a reactor operator,” said Breitbach. “That's the person who has direct control over the reactor on the submarine. You get to see and do a lot of cool things that not everybody thinks about.”
As Breitbach and other sailors continue to train and perform the missions to support national defense, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.
“You're really never doing it just for yourself,” added Breitbach. “You're really doing it for everybody else. You're doing it for your families, friends and the entire county.”