BANGOR, Wash. – An Indianapolis, Indiana, native is serving aboard USS Pennsylvania, one of the world’s most advanced nuclear-powered submarines.
“I come from a rough place,” said Hunter. "I have a lot of nieces and nephews that don't have role models. People are biased about the military and police. I joined the military to show that anything is possible.”
Hunter attended Arsenal Technical High School and graduated in 2017. Today, Hunter uses skills and values similar to those found in Indianapolis.
“I learned to survive and stand up for yourself, to not be a follower and to be independent,” said Hunter.
These lessons have helped Hunter while serving aboard USS Pennsylvania.
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, Hunter 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 Hunter 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 do things that other people can't,” said Hunter.
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.
Hunter and other sailors have many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during their military service.
“I'm most proud of getting into the military,” said Hunter. “I didn't care what my job was going to be or where I was going. I just wanted to get into the military.”
As Hunter 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.
“Serving in the Navy means a lot,” added Hunter. “People treat me differently now. I've been stereotyped when I was younger. People treat me better when they see me in uniform. You also gain brothers. I've gained family members that I'll have for life.”