GROTON, Conn. - A Brooklyn, New York, native is in training to be a part of a 123-year tradition of service under the sea.
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| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class James Green, Navy Office of Community Outreach |
Submariners play a critical role in carrying out one of the Defense Department’s most important missions: strategic deterrence. As a student at Navy Submarine School, Seaman Jessie Tolentino is learning what is needed to operate aboard submarines so they can successfully complete missions around the world.
“My family and my best friend inspired me to join the Navy,” said Tolentino. “I wanted to better myself and become a role model for my community.”
Growing up in Brooklyn, Tolentino attended John Huber High School and graduated in 2012.
Skills and values similar to those found in Brooklyn are similar to those required to succeed in the military.
“Being from New York City, I was raised around diversity, so I was prepared to work in the Navy's diverse work environment,” said Tolentino.
These lessons have helped Tolentino while serving in the Navy.
Known as America’s “Apex Predators!,” the Navy’s submarine force operates a large fleet of technically-advanced vessels. These submarines are capable of conducting rapid defensive and offensive operations around the world, in furtherance of U.S. national security.
There are three basic types of submarines: fast-attack submarines (SSN), ballistic-missile submarines (SSBN) and guided-missile submarines (SSGN).
Fast-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; conduct intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions; and engage in mine warfare. The Virginia-class SSN is the most advanced submarine in the world today. It combines stealth and payload capability to meet Combatant Commanders’ demands in this era of strategic competition.
The Navy's ballistic-missile submarines, often referred to as "boomers," serve as a strategic deterrent by providing an undetectable platform for submarine-launched ballistic missiles. SSBNs are designed specifically for stealth, extended patrols and the precise delivery of missiles. The Columbia-class SSBN will be the largest, most capable and most advanced submarine produced by the U.S. - replacing the current Ohio-class ballistic-missile submarines to ensure continuous sea-based strategic deterrence into the 2080s.
Guided-missile submarines provide the Navy with unprecedented strike and special operation mission capabilities from a stealthy, clandestine platform. Each SSGN is capable of carrying 154 Tomahawk cruise missiles, plus a complement of heavyweight torpedoes to be fired through four torpedo tubes.
"Our mission remains timeless - to provide our fellow citizens with nothing less than the very best Navy: fully combat ready at all times, focused on warfighting excellence, and committed to superior leadership at every single level," said Adm. Mike Gilday, Chief of Naval Operations. "This is our calling. And I cannot imagine a calling more worthy."
Serving in the Navy means Tolentino is part of a team that is taking on new importance in America’s focus on strengthening alliances, modernizing capabilities, increasing capacities and maintaining military readiness in support of the National Defense Strategy."
“The Navy guards the seas around the world,” said Tolentino. "We also provide aid to our partners."
With 90 percent of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to trained sailors and a strong Navy.
Tolentino and the sailors they serve with have many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during their military service.
“I’m proud that I graduated from Basic Enlisted Submarine School,” said Tolentino. “I look forward to all the other things I will accomplish in my future in the Navy.”
As Tolentino and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.
“Serving in the Navy is providing a future for my daughter,” said Tolentino. “That means everything to me.”
Tolentino is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I’m grateful for my best friend and my recruiter,” added Tolentino. "They both helped me join the Navy."