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 Kevin Lee, a 2011 Timberline High School graduate and native of Lacy, Washington, has served for three years and works as a Navy electrician's mate (nuclear) 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 electrician's mate (nuclear), Lee is responsible for maintaining and repairing all the electrical equipment on a submarine including the nuclear plant.
Lee credits success in the Navy to many of the lessons learned in Lacy.
“I've lived on my own for some years before the Navy, so when I came into the Navy I was able to adapt quickly to the travel and responsibilities associated with the job,” said Lee.
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, Lee is most proud of graduating from the three phases of nuclear school.
“It was tough,” said Lee. “I had to study new things like engineering and electricity, which challenged me. I am proud of this because a lot of people fail out of the school, but I worked hard, studying on my personal hours. When I finished, I was relieved because I knew enough to succeed, but I also knew I have much more to learn.”
Being stationed in Pearl Harbor, often referred to as the gateway to the Pacific in defense circles, means Lee 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.
Though serving in the Navy is not a continuing tradition of military service within Lee's family, he is honored to be a positive role model for others.
“I am the only American citizen in my family,” said Lee. “My parents are especially proud of my choice to serve and I am looking forward to being an example for my future kids.”
As a member of one of the U.S. Navy’s most relied upon assets, Lee 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 used be just a job, but now it has become my life,” added Lee. “It's almost like the boat is a part of me and I am a part of the boat. The Navy is a large family and being on USS Charlotte is a small part of that larger family.”