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 2nd Class Jared Brimhall, a 2015 Skyline High School graduate and native of Mesa, Arizona, has served for four years and works as a Navy fire control technician 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 fire control technician, Brimhall is responsible for using mathematical equations and electronic systems to make accurate predictions to fire weapons.
Brimhall credits success in the Navy to many of the lessons learned in Mesa.
“At home we would kill people with kindness,” said Brimhall. “So being on a submarine, I've used this skill to help calm down situations when life is stressful. Simple things, like smiling, helps smooth out tense situations, which makes me more resilient during deployments.”
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, Brimhall is most proud of being recognized and awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal.
“The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal is a small symbol of my continuous drive to grow and achieve,” said Brimhall. “It means so much to me because it represents my hard work and training.”
Being stationed in Pearl Harbor, often referred to as the gateway to the Pacific in defense circles, means Brimhall 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 Brimhall, who has military ties with family members who have previously served. Brimhall is honored to carry on that family tradition.
“My grandfather served in the Air Force and I have a cousin who was a boatwain's mate in the Navy,” said Brimhall. “My grandfather was a wonderful example for me that I want to follow. He was a straight shooter, but gentle at the same time. In many ways, I want to be like him.”
As a member of one of the U.S. Navy’s most relied upon assets, Brimhall 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.
“The Navy has humbled me, which has made me a better person,” added Brimhall. “I've become more patient and content during times where others might react negatively. I have a wider perspective and better communication skills when it comes to a diverse group of people. I am more proud of who I am because of the Navy.”