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 Benjamin Rabalais, a 2014 Klein High School graduate and native of Houston, has served for two years and works as a Navy electronics technician (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 (submarine), Rabalais is responsible for maintaining the communications equipment on board the submarine.
Rabalais credits success in the Navy to many of the lessons learned in Houston.
“As a team we can get stuck in a group, so I approach people as individuals, which allows me to see unique perspectives,” said Rabalais. “Respecting individuals has allowed me to be more open and to seek peace. During deployments, it can be tough, so I work towards amicable solutions and peaceful working relationships.”
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, Rabalais is most proud of becoming a petty officer.
“I’m most proud of this because making rank allows me to grow in my leadership,” said Rabalais. “I want to pass on wisdom to those who will take my place when I am gone.”
Being stationed in Pearl Harbor, often referred to as the gateway to the Pacific in defense circles, means Rabalais 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 Rabalais, who has military ties with family members who have previously served. Rabalais is honored to carry on that family tradition.
“My grandfather served in the Navy and Air Force during the Vietnam and Korean Wars,” said Rabalais. “My father-in-law also served in the Navy as a training deviceman and retired some years ago. I carry with me a legacy of service. I want to carry the idea of being willing to stand between the enemy and civilians. It is a form of service that I am proud to be a part of.”
As a member of one of the U.S. Navy’s most relied upon assets, Rabalais 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 that I get to stand up against those who are hateful in the world and to defend my fellow man,”added Rabalais.