GROTON, Conn. - Submariners make up only 10 percent of the U.S. Navy’s personnel, but they play a critical role in carrying out one of the Defense Department’s most important missions: strategic deterrence. Petty Officer 1st Class Sergio Valdez, son of a Leming, Texas, resident, is one of the sailors continuing a 123-year tradition of service under the sea to help ensure Americans’ safety.
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| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class James Green, Navy Office of Community Outreach |
Valdez joined the Navy seven and a half years ago and today serves as an electronics technician- nuclear aboard USS San Juan.
“I joined the Navy to serve my country and to follow in the footsteps of my parents,” said Valdez. "My dad retired from the Navy as a Mess Specialist 2nd Class in 2005."
Skills and values similar to those found in Leming are similar to those required to succeed in the military.
“Growing up, I learned to have a good work ethic and to pass on lessons that I've learned, so that everyone can better themselves,” said Valdez.
These lessons have helped Valdez 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."
Strategic deterrence is the nation’s ultimate insurance program, according to Navy officials. As a member of the submarine force, Valdez is part of a rich history of the U.S. Navy’s most versatile weapons platform, capable of taking the fight to the enemy in defense of America and its allies.
“The Navy is important to national defense because we are on scene and unseen at all times, maintaining maritime security, keeping our adversaries at bay and defending freedom,” said Valdez.
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.
Valdez and the sailors they serve with have many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during their military service.
“My proudest Navy accomplishment is making the rank of petty officer first class and earning my Submarine Warfare device,” said Valdez. “I am proud of being promoted because it was a challenging task, but it is something that I always strived to do. Earning my Submarine Warfare device made me proud because it makes me part of an elite group of individuals.”
As Valdez and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.
“Being in the Navy means serving my country and ensuring that my family is safe,” said Valdez. “My service means I am continuing a long line of traditions this country has.”
Valdez is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank my parents, Jose and Cheryl Valdez, for putting me on the right path and for instilling values in me that are important to succeed in the Navy,” added Valdez. “I also want to thank Doug Plodzik, a retired sailor, for all of his support and for inspiring me to join the Navy. Lastly, I would like to thank the entire crew of San Juan for their help and support.”