BANGOR, Wash. – A Cumberland, Rhode Island, native is serving aboard USS Kentucky, one of the world’s most advanced nuclear-powered submarines.
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| Photo by Lt. Cmdr. Jake Joy, Navy Office of Community Outreach |
"At the time I was driving trucks and wanted to find something else," said Corey. “The Navy lets you choose a job that you're qualified for.”
Corey attended Cumberland High School and graduated in 2007. Today, Corey uses skills and values similar to those found in Cumberland.
“I learned that I'm not any better than anyone else,” said Corey. "You have to earn your way. If you want a better life, you have to earn a better life. You can't just expect something to be given to you."
These lessons have helped Corey 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, Corey 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 Corey 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.
“The Navy is the defining element of national security,” said Corey. "Potential enemies can't get to our shores if we have a strong Navy deployed around the world."
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.
Corey and other sailors have many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during their military service.
“I’m honored to be chosen to serve as the leading engineering laboratory technician,” said Corey. "I'm in charge of all water chemistry and radiological controls for the department."
As Corey 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.
“Joining the Navy was a way to do something different, but over time I've learned what an incredible impact serving in the military can have,” added Corey. "This gives me the opportunity to go beyond the day-to-day and serve in a job that has purpose."