U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Brian T. Glunt
PEARL HARBOR – Modern attack submarines are the most technologically advanced and capable undersea warfighters in the world. Operating these highly complex submarines require sailors from the U.S. Navy’s submarine community, also known as the ‘Silent Service.’
Petty Officer 3rd Class Josue Molina, a 2016 Los Fresnos High School graduate and native of Brownsville, Texas, has served for two years and works as a Navy electronics technician (communication submarine) serving aboard one of the world’s most advanced nuclear-powered submarines, USS Charlotte, homeported at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii. As a Navy electronics technician (communication submarine), Molina is responsible for maintaining, repairing and calibrating all communications equipment used to send or receive messages to or from the boat.
Molina credits success in the Navy to many of the lessons learned in Brownsville.
“Lessons I learned from growing up that I have applied to my Navy career are hard work and learning from your mistakes,” said Molina. “As long as you are a hard worker, life will be better. Learning from your mistakes makes you a better person overall.”
Jobs are highly varied aboard the submarine. Approximately 130 sailors make up the submarine’s crew, doing everything from handling weapons to maintaining nuclear reactors.
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; carry out intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions; and engage in mine warfare. Their primary tactical advantage is stealth, operating undetected under the sea for long periods of time.
Because of the demanding environment aboard submarines, personnel are accepted only after rigorous testing and observation. Submariners are some of the most highly trained and skilled people in the Navy. Regardless of their specialty, everyone has to learn how everything on the ship works and how to respond in emergencies to become “qualified in submarines” and earn the right to wear the coveted gold or silver dolphins on their uniform.
Though there are many ways for sailors to earn distinction in their command, community, and career, Molina is most proud of earning his enlisted submarine qualification (dolphins).
“It is my proudest accomplishment because it was a long road to get them,” said Molina. “Knowing that I am part of an elite community that not many people could ever dream of being a part of makes me feel even more proud.”
Being stationed in Pearl Harbor, often referred to as the gateway to the Pacific in defense circles, means Molina is serving in a part of the world taking on a new importance in America’s focus on rebuilding military readiness, strengthening alliances, and reforming business practices in support of the National Defense Strategy.
“Our priorities center on people, capabilities and processes, and will be achieved by our focus on speed, value, results and partnerships,” said Secretary of the Navy Richard V. Spencer. “Readiness, lethality and modernization are the requirements driving these priorities.”
The Navy has been pivotal in helping maintain peace and stability in the Pacific region for decades. The Pacific is home to more than 50 percent of the world's population, many of the world's largest and smallest economies, several of the world's largest militaries, and many U.S. allies.
Serving in the Navy is a continuing tradition of military service for Molina, who has military ties with family members who have previously served. Molina is honored to carry on that family tradition.
“My grandfather was part of the Army, but did not really influence my decision to join,” said Molina. “I am continuing the legacy of great men and women serving our country because I believe in the benefits of serving, like health care and free education.”
As a member of one of the U.S. Navy’s most relied upon assets, Molina and other sailors know they are part of a legacy that will last beyond their lifetimes, one that will provide a critical component of the Navy the nation needs.
“Serving in the Navy means I am part of that one percent that wants to do more,”added Molina. "I wanted ot be able to give back to a country that has given me so much.”