GROTON, Conn. - A Magnolia, Texas, 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 |
Submariners play a critical role in carrying out one of the Defense Department’s most important missions: strategic deterrence. As a student at Basic Enlisted Submarine School, Seaman Recruit Hunter Sanders is learning what is needed to operate aboard submarines so they can successfully complete missions around the world.
“I joined the Navy to make my parents proud,” said Sanders. “It's an opportunity to do something different and new with my life.”
Growing up in Magnolia, Sanders attended Magnolia West High School and graduated in 2021.
Skills and values similar to those found in Magnolia are similar to those required to succeed in the military.
“Growing up, I learned the importance of hard work and the ability to take no as an answer,” said Sanders. “So far those qualities have got me through boot camp.”
These lessons have helped Sanders 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 Sanders 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 gives the U.S. forward projection,” said Sanders. “To protect trade routes and the seas.”
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.
Sanders and the sailors they serve with have many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during their military service.
“I am proud that I was able to complete basic training,” said Sanders. “It's a very mentally challenging being away from home and I overcame it.”
As Sanders 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 means that I'm part of a team, part of a community and a family,” said Sanders. “I am excited to see where it takes me.”
Sanders is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I am grateful for my recruiter,” added Sanders. “She moved mountains to get me here. She worked very hard to make this happen for me.”