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.’
Fireman Apprentice Brendan Cook, a 2017 Assurance Learning Academy graduate and native of Oologah, Oklahoma, has served for one year and works as a Navy machinist'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 machinist's mate (nuclear), Cook is responsible for loading and unloading weapons onto the boat as well as maintanence on guns, missiles and torpedos.
Cook credits success in the Navy to many of the lessons learned in Oologah.
“I learned the importance of dedication and determination to achieve my goals and succeed in the things I want to get,” said Cook. “I have also brought with me the mental maturity to focus on my work over making friends.”
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, Cook is most proud of not giving up.
“Though it would be easy to surrender to the pressure of working not only in the Navy, but on a submarine, I have and will continue to stand firm,” said Cook.
Being stationed in Pearl Harbor, often referred to as the gateway to the Pacific in defense circles, means Cook 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.
As a member of one of the U.S. Navy’s most relied upon assets, Cook 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.
“To me, serving in the Navy is a form of showing respect to the country by being willing to give my life to protect it,” added Cook.