MILLINGTON, Tenn. - 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 2nd Class Nathan Cunningham, a native of Temecula, California, is one of the sailors supporting a 123-year tradition of service under the sea to help ensure Americans’ safety.
Cunningham, a 2015 graduate of Temecula Valley High School, joined the Navy four years ago.
"I joined the Navy to gain real-life experience, and to prove to myself that I had what it took to serve this country like so many before me did," said Cunningham.
Today, Cunningham serves as a yeoman (submarines) with Commander, Submarine Squadron 15 located at Naval Base Guam.
"My favorite part about being a yeoman, is getting to work so closely with the top-ranking people at the commands you are stationed at," said Cunningham.
Skills and values similar to those found in Temecula are similar to those required to succeed in the military.
"The main thing that I apply most in day-to-day military life is being able to see even the most challenging things to the end," said Cunningham.
These lessons have helped Cunningham 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, Cunningham 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 the defense of America and its allies.
Serving in the Navy means Cunningham 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 contributes to National Defense by always being ready to strike or help those in need," said Cunningham.
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.
Cunningham and the sailors they serve with have many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during their military service.
"I am most proud of proving to all the haters that I proved them wrong, that I did make it," said Cunningham.
As Cunningham 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 you can do anything you put your mind to; never give up," added Cunningham.
Cunningham's parents both reside in Fallbrook, California.