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 Kent Palmer, a native of Williamsburg, Virginia, 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 |
Palmer joined the Navy seven years ago and today serves as a fire control technician aboard USS South Dakota.
“I joined the Navy because it was a way to set myself up for the future without going to college,” said Palmer.
Growing up in Williamsburg, Palmer attended Warhill High School and graduated in 2015.
Skills and values similar to those found in Willsmburg are similar to those required to succeed in the military.
“I learned growing up that everyone comes from different walks of life,” said Palmer. “Not everyone will have the same moral values or outlook on life. The Navy as a whole is very diverse, so that has helped me work with different types of people to accomplish missions.”
These lessons have helped Palmer 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, Palmer 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.
“From a submarine aspect, we contribute to national defense by having the ability to be anywhere, at any time, without anyone knowing that we are there,” said Palmer.
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.
Palmer and the sailors they serve with have many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during their military service.
“My proudest accomplishment is being able to thrive in chaos,” said Palmer. “In moments of uncertainty, being able to thrive in chaos allows you to remain calm and to complete the mission.”
As Palmer 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 making sacrifices for a bigger purpose,” said Palmer.
Palmer is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank my dad, Kent, for his words of wisdom and for always believing in me,” added Palmer. “I also want to thank the leaders throughout my career who have passed their knowledge down to me.”
As Palmer 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 making sacrifices for a bigger purpose,” said Palmer.
Palmer is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank my dad, Kent, for his words of wisdom and for always believing in me,” added Palmer. “I also want to thank the leaders throughout my career who have passed their knowledge down to me.”