U.S. Navy News Archives - Page 6 of 19 - Americans for a Stronger Navy

November 13, 2023

Medal of Honor Monday: Navy Rear Adm. Daniel J. Callaghan

“Any man who may be asked in this century what he did to make his life worthwhile, I think can respond with a good deal of pride and satisfaction: ‘I served in the United States Navy.'” JFK

Hello, members and friends of the Americans For a Stronger Navy. Today, we take a break from our podcast series to honor those who have served our nation with extraordinary bravery and sacrifice.

As part of our Medal of Honor Monday series, we will feature a different Navy hero every week, and share their stories of valor and service with you. We hope that by doing so, we can inspire you to appreciate and support the Navy and its mission, and to learn from the examples of courage and patriotism that these heroes have set in times of war and peace.

This week, we are proud to present Navy Rear Adm. Daniel Judson Callaghan, who commanded ships fighting against a massive enemy force during one of the deadliest battles of World War II. Callaghan did not survive the ordeal, but his leadership, foresight and courage helped lead his sailors to victory. That earned him a posthumous Medal of Honor.

Callaghan was born on 26 July 1890 in Oakland, California. He graduated from the Naval Academy in 1911, and served as an engineering officer, an executive officer, and a naval aid to President Franklin D. Roosevelt. By April 1942, he was promoted to rear admiral while commanding the cruiser USS San Francisco.

By November, he was in the middle of the Naval Battle of Guadalcanal, where the Allies had retaken the island from the Japanese, who were desperately trying to take it back. On the night of 12 November, Callaghan learned that a large Japanese naval force was heading toward his position, which was in Iron Bottom Sound between Guadalcanal and Savo Island.

The Japanese ships were superior in numbers and in power, but Callaghan decided to engage them with his task force, which consisted of three light cruisers, eight destroyers and two heavy cruisers, including the San Francisco, the task force’s flagship. Hedevised a plan of attack, and led his forces into battle against tremendous odds.

The battle was chaotic and fierce, and the San Francisco was the first to face enemy ships by taking on the Hiei, a Japanese battleship, in a head-on duel. Callaghan and the San Francisco’s commanding officer, Capt. Cassin Young, were both on the ship’s bridge wing directing close-range operations. They were both killed by a shell from the Hiei, but not before they inflicted heavy damage on the enemy ship.

The blast also knocked the ship’s communications officer, Lt. Cmdr. Bruce McCandless, unconscious. When he woke up, he realized Callaghan and Young were gone, so he took command of the ship and the task force, and ordered them to continue their bombardment. He also managed to sink a destroyer and damage two other Japanese vessels.

Eventually, the Japanese admiral, who was commanding the enemy ships, lost his nerve and ordered his crews to withdraw and regroup. The battle was over, and the Allies had won a decisive victory. They had prevented the Japanese from bombarding Henderson Field, the airfield on Guadalcanal, and from delivering troops to the island’s shores. The battle was the last in a series that forced the Japanese to surrender Guadalcanal for good, handing the Allies a strategic victory.

The win came at a heavy price for the Allies, too. Nine U.S. ships were sunk while about a dozen more were damaged. More than 1,700 Americans lost their lives, including Callaghan. He was buried at sea, and his name is listed on the Wall of the Missing at the Manila Cemetery in the Philippines.

On 9 December 1942, his son, Navy Lt. j.g. Daniel J. Callaghan Jr., received the Medal of Honor on his father’s behalf from President Franklin D. Roosevelt. His citation read:

“For extraordinary heroism and conspicuous intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty during action against enemy Japanese forces off Savo Island on the night of 12-13 November 1942. Although out-balanced in strength and numbers by a desperate and determined enemy, Rear Adm. Callaghan, with ingenious tactical skill and superb coordination of the units under his command, led his forces into battle against tremendous odds, thereby contributing decisively to the rout of a powerful invasion fleet, and to the consequent frustration of a formidable Japanese offensive. While faithfully directing close-range operations in the face of furious bombardment by superior enemy fire power, he was killed on the bridge of his flagship.”

Callaghan is a true Navy hero, who exemplified the values of courage, honor, and commitment. He showed us what it means to defend our country and our freedom, even in the face of overwhelming odds and danger. He also showed us what it means to lead and inspire our fellow sailors and our Navy family, even in the midst of chaos and pain. He is a role model and an inspiration for all of us, and we are grateful for his service and his legacy.

We hope that you enjoyed this week’s Medal of Honor Monday, and that you learned something new and valuable from Callaghan’s story. Please join us next week, as we feature another Navy hero who earned the Medal of Honor. Thank you for your attention and your support. Stay safe and stay strong. This is Bill, signing off.

November 11, 2023November 11, 2023

The Transwing Airborne Drone: A New Solution for Naval Logistics and Operations?

PteroDynamics’ drone can fold its wings to fly like a fixed-wing aircraft in forward flight. (PteroDynamics)

Hello, and welcome to the Americans for a Stronger Navy blog, where we share the latest news and insights on the U.S. Navy’s mission and operations, and how they affect our national security and interests. My name is Bill Cullifer, and I am a proud founder and supporter of this organization, which advocates for a stronger and more capable U.S. Navy that can deter and defeat any adversary, if needed and can also secure and sustain peace for ourselves and our posterity.

I am glad you are here, whether you are a new member or friend, or a long-time supporter of our cause. I hope you will find this blog informative and inspiring, and that you will join me in building a community of patriotic and passionate naval enthusiasts. I also hope you will check out our podcast series, Fleet Forward: Charting Tomorrow’s Navy, which explores the challenges and opportunities facing the U.S. Navy in the 21st century. This series is a precursor to our upcoming December podcast series, Charting the Course: Navigating the Future of American Naval Power, which will dive deeper into the issues and trends that shape the U.S. Navy’s strategy and vision.

Today, I want to talk to you about a new and exciting technology that the U.S. Navy is exploring, and how it can enhance its logistics and operations in the global maritime domain. I am talking about the Transwing airborne drone, which is a type of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) that can take off and land vertically, and fly horizontally with high speed and efficiency. The Transwing drone is designed and produced by PteroDynamics, a company based in Los Angeles, California.

The U.S. Navy is always looking for new and innovative ways to enhance its capabilities and to overcome its challenges. One of the latest solutions that the U.S. Navy is exploring is the Transwing drone, a unique and versatile unmanned aerial vehicle that can transform from a fixed-wing aircraft to a rotary-wing aircraft in mid-air. The Transwing drone can also be used for humanitarian, commercial, and recreational purposes, such as delivering supplies, monitoring the environment, and capturing aerial footage.

The Transwing drone has recently demonstrated its potential and performance by completing a series of sea trials with the U.S. Navy. The Transwing drone successfully launched and recovered from the deck of the USNS Burlington, a Spearhead-class expeditionary fast transport ship, sailing near Key West, Florida. The Transwing drone also successfully landed on a moving target, which is a critical skill for naval operations.

The Transwing drone is a potential game-changer for the U.S. Navy, as it offers a number of advantages over conventional drones. Some of the advantages are:

• The Transwing drone can take off and land vertically, like a helicopter, which means it does not need a runway or a catapult. This makes it more flexible and adaptable to different environments and situations.

• The Transwing drone can also fly horizontally, like a plane, which means it can fly faster and farther than a helicopter. This makes it more efficient and effective for long-distance missions and operations.

• The Transwing drone can carry up to 500 pounds of cargo, which is more than most drones of its size. This makes it more useful and practical for delivering essential supplies and equipment to remote or inaccessible locations.

• The Transwing drone can operate autonomously or remotely, which means it can reduce the workload and the risk for human operators and pilots. This makes it more reliable and safe for complex and dangerous tasks and scenarios.

Transwing drone is designed and produced by PteroDynamics, a company based in Los Angeles, California.

According to Tim Whitehand, the vice president of engineering at PteroDynamics, the company that developed the Transwing drone, “Participating in The Hybrid Fleet Campaign Event brought us closer to our goal of providing the U.S. Navy with a flexible and scalable shore-to-ship, ship-to-ship, and ship-to-shore automated cargo delivery capability.”

However, the Transwing drone is not without its challenges and drawbacks. Some of the challenges are:

• The Transwing drone is still in its early stages of development and testing, which means it may face some technical issues and glitches that could affect its performance and functionality. For example, the Transwing drone may have difficulties in maintaining stability and control during the transition between the fixed-wing and the rotary-wing modes.

• The Transwing drone is also subject to some operational risks and uncertainties, such as weather conditions, air traffic, and enemy threats. For instance, the Transwing drone may encounter strong winds, turbulence, or interference that could hamper its flight and navigation. The Transwing drone may also be detected, tracked, or attacked by hostile forces that could compromise its mission and security.

• The Transwing drone may also raise some ethical concerns and legal implications, such as the accountability, the responsibility, and the authority of the human operators and the decision-makers. For example, the Transwing drone may pose some dilemmas and conflicts in terms of the use of force, the protection of civilians, and the respect of sovereignty. The Transwing drone may also require some regulations and standards to ensure its compliance and compatibility with the existing laws and norms.

The Transwing drone is a new and powerful solution for naval logistics and operations, as it combines the best features of both fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft. The Transwing drone has shown its capabilities and its potential by completing a series of sea trials with the U.S. Navy, and by demonstrating its ability to launch and recover from a ship, and to land on a moving target.

The Transwing drone also offers a number of advantages over conventional drones, such as flexibility, efficiency, utility, and reliability.

The Transwing drone is still in its development and testing phase, and it will require more research and evaluation to overcome its challenges and to optimize its performance. The Transwing drone is also a source of inspiration and motivation for the next generation of naval leaders, as it shows them the importance and relevance of the U.S. Navy’s mission and strategy, and how they can contribute and make a difference.

November 7, 2023November 7, 2023

US Sends Powerful Message of Deterrence to Iran and Its Allies with Nuclear Submarine in Middle East

A picture shared by US Central Command appears to show a guided missile submarine in the Suez Canal passing under the Al Salam Bridge northeast of Cairo.

Introduction

As Americans for a Stronger Navy, we stand with our brave sailors and Marines who are serving in the Middle East amid the ongoing turmoil and violence. We salute their courage and dedication to protect our nation and our allies from the threats posed by those that would harm us and we pray for their safety.

In a rare and bold move, the US military announced on Sunday that an Ohio-class guided missile submarine had arrived in the Middle East, a clear message of deterrence to our regional adversaries according to press reports.

The Ohio-class submarines are among the most formidable weapons in the US arsenal, capable of carrying up to 154 Tomahawk cruise missiles, each with a 1,000-pound high-explosive warhead. These submarines can deliver a lot of firepower very rapidly and accurately, and no opponent of the US can ignore their presence.

The announcement of the submarine’s arrival in the Middle East is unusual and significant, as the US military rarely discloses the movements or operations of its fleet of ballistic and guided missile subs. The deployment comes as the Biden administration is trying to avoid a broader conflict amid the Israel-Hamas war, and to prevent Iran and its allies from opening new fronts against Israel or attacking US bases and interests in the region.

The submarine’s location and range suggest that it is focused on the threats in and around the Mediterranean, where Hezbollah, the Lebanese militant group backed by Iran, has fired rockets and drones at northern Israel, and exchanged fire with Israeli forces on the border.

The submarine could also target the Houthi rebels in Yemen, another Iran-supported group that has launched missiles and drones at Israel from across the Red Sea.

Additionally, the submarine could deter or respond to any aggression from Iran itself, or from its proxies in Syria and Iraq, where they have been firing rockets and drones at US military bases.

The presence of the submarine in the Middle East has important implications for the regional security and stability, as it demonstrates the US commitment and resolve to defend its allies and interests, and to deter or retaliate against any attack.

The submarine also adds to the existing US naval assets in the area, including two carrier strike groups and an amphibious ready group, creating a formidable force that can project power and influence across the region. The submarine’s deployment could also affect the ongoing negotiations with Iran over its nuclear program, as it shows the US willingness and ability to use military force if diplomacy fails.

The submarine’s deployment demonstrates the US commitment and resolve to defend its allies and interests, and to deter or retaliate against any attack. The submarine also adds to the existing US naval assets in the area, creating a formidable force that can project power and influence across the region.

The Ohio-class submarines and the US Navy are vital for the national security and the global peace, as they protect our freedom, preserve our economic prosperity, and keep the seas open and free.

U.S. Has 4 Objectives in Middle East says DOD

The Defense Department currently has four lines of effort in the Middle East, said Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder, who briefed the media today.

Protection of U.S. forces and citizens in the region.

Flow of critical security assistance to Israel as it defends against further Hamas terrorist attacks.
Coordination with the Israelis to help secure the release of hostages held by Hamas, to include American citizens.

Strengthening of force posture across the region to deter any state or nonstate actors from escalating the crisis beyond Gaza.

Strengthened force posture includes the deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford and USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Groups, which are currently in the U.S. Central Command area, along with an Ohio-class submarine.

Over the past few weeks there have been attacks by Iranian proxy groups at al-Asad air base, Iraq, and al-Tanf, Syria, on U.S. forces there, Ryder said.

The attacks, by drones and missiles, resulted in several dozen injuries, including a mix of minor injuries and traumatic brain injuries, he said.

Some of those injured didn’t immediately report their condition, he said.

“The reporting data is highly dependent on self-reporting when individual injuries are not visually evident to medical personnel providing care directly following an incident,” he said.

As Americans for a Stronger Navy, we support and advocate for a strong and modern naval force that can meet the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.

We urge you to join us in our mission and to help us spread the word about the importance and value of the US Navy. Together, we can make a difference for our nation and our world through peace by strength.

November 6, 2023November 6, 2023

Fleet Forward: Charting Tomorrow’s Navy, USNavy, Destroyer Navy

Introduction

Welcome to “Fleet Forward: Charting Tomorrow’s Navy,” a personal endeavor born from my commitment as your host Bill Cullifer, founder and former Destroyer Navy Sailor to ensure the enduring strength and capability of our Naval forces. With this series, inspired by our shared values and patriotic spirit, we aim to complement our upcoming December podcast series ‘Charting the Course: Navigating the Future of American Naval Power’. Here, we’ll not only delve into the Navy’s shipbuilding strategies but also the stories and people behind them, reflecting on our national security, economic vitality, and our role on the global stage.

The Importance of a Strong Navy

As we face evolving threats in an increasingly complex global landscape, a strong Navy is not just a matter of national pride—it is a crucial pillar of American security and global stability.

The Process of Naval Shipbuilding

Inspired by a blog post from Brent D. Sadler, former U.S. Naval Captain and author of U.S. Power in the 21st Century, Our journey will explore the labyrinthine process of designing, planning, and budgeting that goes into creating the Navy’s vessels, with a special emphasis on the cutting-edge DDG(X) program.

The Format of Our Series

This format ensures a cohesive presentation that begins with the “why” before diving into the “what” and “how” of the series content.

The Challenges and Opportunities of Naval Procurement

In the wake of the Congressional Budget Office’s (CBO) critical analysis and ensuing public debate sparked by commentary from experts like Brent Sadler, our series will untangle the complex web of factors influencing naval procurement decisions. We’ll dissect the multifaceted challenges of aligning strategic imperatives with fiscal responsibility, technological innovation with logistical practicality, and political ambition with operational necessity.

The Stakeholders and Perspectives of Naval Strategy

Each episode will feature voices from a spectrum of stakeholders—military officers, defense analysts, policymakers, industry experts, and academics—to illuminate the diverse perspectives that shape the Navy’s trajectory. From the drawing boards where the future of naval warfare begins to the congressional halls where budgets are debated and determined, we’ll provide you with a holistic view of what it takes to build a fleet capable of securing American interests on the global stage.

The DDG(X) Program

Our deep dive starts at the heart of controversy—the DDG(X) destroyer. As a linchpin of the Navy’s future force structure, this program epitomizes the technological ambition and the budgetary challenges inherent in modern naval shipbuilding. We’ll scrutinize its design process, how it fits into the broader naval architecture, and the strategic thinking that drives its development.

The Main Topics of Our Series

As we embark on this analytical voyage through the Navy’s shipbuilding endeavors, our series will navigate through eight key topics that capture the essence of the challenges and strategies underlying America’s naval future. We’ll be examining:

• The overarching goals of the Navy’s shipbuilding plans and their strategic significance.

• The fiscal landscape of naval procurement, including budgeting processes and cost control measures.

• The technological advancements and design considerations in modern shipbuilding, with a spotlight on the DDG(X) program.

• The industrial base and workforce development necessary for sustaining and advancing shipbuilding capabilities.

• The geopolitical implications of naval power, focusing on the dynamics with near-peer competitors such as China.

• Congressional oversight and legislative impact on Navy shipbuilding, including funding and authorization.

• The operational requirements driving the composition and capability needs of the future fleet.

• Alliances and partnerships, such as AUKUS, and their influence on U.S. shipbuilding plans and strategic positioning.

Conclusion

In our next episode, we will dissect the recent CBO report and expert critiques like those from Brent Sadler, setting the stage for a series that promises a thorough dissection of the Navy’s path forward. Each topic will build upon the last, creating a comprehensive narrative that brings clarity to the complex world of naval strategy and shipbuilding.

Join us as we steer through these topics with expert interviews, panel discussions, and in-depth analyses, providing a 360-degree view of what it takes to maintain a Navy capable of meeting tomorrow’s challenges.

November 1, 2023November 2, 2023

Legacy Reborn: The New USS Arizona and Its Historic Significance

Hello, everyone. Today, I have some exciting news to share with you: the U.S. Navy has named a captain for a new submarine named USS Arizona, the first ship to bear the name since the loss of the battleship at Pearl Harbor in 1941.

Why this matters

The USS Arizona battleship was one of the most iconic and tragic symbols of World War II. On December 7, 1941, it was attacked and sunk by Japanese aircraft, killing 1,177 sailors and Marines on board. The ship remains at the bottom of Pearl Harbor as a national memorial and a resting place for the fallen heroes.

The new USS Arizona is a Virginia-class nuclear submarine, which is the most advanced attack submarine in the world, with stealth, firepower, and maneuverability. The new USS Arizona is the first U.S. naval vessel to bear the name since the loss of the battleship at Pearl Harbor, and the second Block V boat, which will feature the Virginia Payload Module, enabling it to deliver a wider variety of capabilities.

The new USS Arizona was authorized for construction on December 2, 2019, and its keel was laid on December 7, 2022, at the Quonset Point Facility of General Dynamics Electric Boat in North Kingston, RI.

The sponsor for the new USS Arizona is Nikki Stratton, the granddaughter of Donald Stratton, a Seaman First Class aboard the battleship USS Arizona who survived the attack and reenlisted to serve in World War II. He died in February 2020 at the age of 97.

The first commanding officer of the new USS Arizona is Navy Cmdr. Tom Digan, who was named on October 30, 2023, marking the first time in over eight decades that the U.S. Navy has named a skipper for a ship of the same namesake.

What others are saying:

• Rear Adm. Jonathan Rucker, Program Executive Office, Attack Submarines: “The boats in this class are the most advanced attack submarines ever designed. Their stealth, firepower, and maneuverability are superior to every other attack submarine force in the world. Additionally, Arizona will be the first of the Virginia-class equipped with the Virginia Payload Module, enabling the submarine to deliver an even wider variety of capabilities.”

• Nikki Stratton, sponsor for the new USS Arizona: “The future is unknown. But one thing we do know is that the crew of SSN 803 will stand watch, patrolling the ocean’s depths … She will strike fear into the hearts of our enemies and become a beacon of hope.”

• Cmdr. Tom Digan, first commanding officer of the new USS Arizona: “It is an honor and privilege to be selected as commanding officer of Pre-Commissioning Unit Arizona. I am humbled by this opportunity to lead such an amazing crew as we bring this incredible warship to life.”

This news is a testament to the strength and resilience of our Navy and our nation. The new USS Arizona will carry on the legacy of its predecessor and honor its memory by defending our freedom and security.

I am proud and grateful for the new USS Arizona and its crew. I hope you are too.

October 20, 2023October 20, 2023

Peace through Strength: A Time-Tested Perspective

USS Mount Whitney (LCC 20)
U.S. Navy photo

Maritime Diplomacy

As the USS Mount Whitney, the Navy’s primary command-and-control ship in Europe, departs for the Eastern Mediterranean Sea, it joins a broader U.S. military buildup in the region. This deployment comes in the wake of intensified conflicts, as the U.S. lends its support to Israel during its ongoing engagement with Hamas. Such actions reiterate the Navy’s commitment to allies and the pivotal role maritime diplomacy plays in global geopolitics.

Comprehensive Maritime Power

The partnership between U.S. Sailors and Military Sealift Command civil service mariners showcases the harmony of military and civilian efforts. Their combined efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area are a testament to the multifaceted strength of our naval forces.

Building and Sustaining Relationships

For over eight decades, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-U.S. Naval Forces Africa (NAVEUR-NAVAF) has cultivated strategic relationships. Shared values form the bedrock of these alliances, contributing immensely to regional security and stability.

Diverse Operations, Singular Goal

While the U.S. Sixth Fleet is involved in a spectrum of joint and naval operations, its prime directive remains clear: safeguarding U.S. national security interests in Europe and Africa. By operating in these areas, the Navy is a beacon of stability and assurance.

Conclusion: The Path Forward

Our Navy’s continued efforts in Europe and Africa underscore a fundamental belief: peace is achieved not by retreat but by a balanced show of strength and diplomacy. As members and supporters of Americans for a Stronger Navy, we firmly stand by the principle of “peace through strength.” In championing a stronger Navy, we’re not advocating for conflict; we’re championing the most effective route to sustained peace.

Let us continue our support for our naval forces as they sail forward, fostering connections and ensuring the seas remain free and secure for all.

October 19, 2023

USS Carney Defends Regional Stability in the Red Sea

Introduction to Members and Friends:

Greetings to our esteemed members and supporters of the Americans for a Stronger Navy. Today, we bring to your attention a significant event that underscores the indispensable role our U.S. Navy plays in maintaining global stability and safeguarding our allies.

Key Takeaways:

US Navy’s Proactive Defense: The USS Carney, a U.S. Navy guided-missile destroyer in the northern Red Sea, has intercepted and shot down missiles and drones potentially targeting Israel. These threats were launched by the Iranian-backed Houthi militia in Yemen.

A Historic Action: This incident marks the first time in recent memory where a U.S. Navy ship in the Middle East has engaged with threats not aimed directly at the vessel. It’s a testament to the Navy’s commitment to the defense of our allies, Israel in this case.

Growing Regional Tensions: With the current conflicts between Israel and Hamas and the involvement of Iranian-backed proxies, the geopolitical scenario in the region is becoming increasingly volatile.

Efficient and Timely Response: The USS Carney’s swift action in shooting down the missiles ensures that threats, even those not aimed directly at our forces, are neutralized to maintain peace and stability in the region.

U.S. Military’s Enhanced Presence: Given the growing tensions, the U.S. has strengthened its military presence in the region. The USS Carney is part of the USS Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group that was deployed to deter potential aggressors and to support our allies.

Our Message is Clear: As Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder stated, the positioning of our naval assets and aircraft in the region is a clear signal of our intent to deter wider conflicts, bolster regional stability, and defend our national security interests.

In these challenging times, the importance of a robust naval force is more evident than ever. The events in the Red Sea are a reminder of the crucial role our Navy plays in ensuring not just our nation’s security, but also in maintaining a balance of power and ensuring the safety of our allies.

We salute the brave men and women aboard the USS Carney and thank them for their unwavering commitment and service.

USS Carney Defends Regional Stability in the Red Sea

Introduction to Members and Friends:

Key Takeaways:

Efficient and Timely Response: The USS Carney’s swift action in shooting down the missiles ensures that threats, even those not aimed directly at our forces, are neutralized to maintain peace and stability in the region.

U.S. Military’s Enhanced Presence: Given the growing tensions, the U.S. has strengthened its military presence in the region. The USS Carney is part of the USS Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group that was deployed to deter potential aggressors and to support our allies.

Our Message is Clear: As Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder stated, the positioning of our naval assets and aircraft in the region is a clear signal of our intent to deter wider conflicts, bolster regional stability, and defend our national security interests.

We salute the brave men and women aboard the USS Carney and thank them for their unwavering commitment and service.

October 14, 2023October 14, 2023

A Tribute to Chicago’s Naval Legacy: Admiral Rickover’s New Submarine

Introduction

The sea’s immense depths have long symbolized mystery, vastness, and immense power. The submarines that glide beneath the waves are a testament to our nation’s commitment to defense and technological advancement.

This week, the U.S. Navy unveiled its latest masterpiece, USS Hyman G. Rickover, a nuclear submarine named after one of Chicago’s own. In an age where military tensions bristle and global challenges surge, this submarine, and the history it represents, signifies the Navy’s dedication to ensuring America’s defense remains unparalleled.

Chicago’s Submarine Legacy

The U-boat Museum Connection

When one mentions Chicago and submarines, it’s hard not to envision the iconic German U-boat displayed at the Museum of Science and Industry. This captured artifact serves as a reminder of our past challenges and triumphs.

Admiral Rickover: The Visionary Behind Nuclear Submarines

Yet, Chicago’s submarine legacy doesn’t end there. Admiral Hyman G. Rickover, a figure intertwined with Chicago’s fabric, has now received his second tribute in the form of the USS Hyman G. Rickover, a state-of-the-art fast-attack nuclear-powered submarine. Rickover’s journey, from fleeing Jewish persecution in Poland to settling in Chicago’s North Lawndale and ascending the Navy ranks, is nothing short of inspiring.

Under his leadership, the concept of a nuclear-powered submarine transformed from an idea to a reality. He recognized the limitations of diesel submarines, which frequently needed to surface. With nuclear power, submarines gained the capability to remain submerged for prolonged periods, revolutionizing naval warfare.

Why It Matters

Submarines in Modern Defense

Bill Nissen, a Chicago lawyer and former Naval Officer, emphasizes the significance of these submarines. Their stealthy nature, ability to stay hidden, and readiness to act make them invaluable assets to national defense.

Chicago’s Ongoing Contribution

The USS Hyman G. Rickover is not just named in tribute to a Chicago legend but will also have four crew members hailing from the city. Among them is Chief Petty Officer Gino Rossi of St. Charles, who, like many servicemen, embarks on this mission carrying the hopes, pride, and concerns of his family back home.

Honoring a Legacy

Naming this the second submarine after Admiral Rickover, who holds the record for serving in the U.S. military for an incredible 63 years, is a testament to the Navy’s commitment to honoring its heroes. It’s a message that valiant service, vision, and dedication to one’s nation will never be forgotten.

Conclusion

The unveiling of the USS Hyman G. Rickover is more than just the launch of another submarine; it’s a celebration of a visionary, the recognition of Chicago’s integral role in naval history, and a statement of America’s unyielding commitment to its defense. As global challenges loom, such tributes remind us of the strength, innovation, and unity that underpin our nation.

October 13, 2023October 13, 2023

Happy Birthday US Navy

Dear Navy Family,

Today marks the 248th birthday of the US Navy, the most formidable and adaptable Naval force on the global stage. This day serves as a testament to the valor, dedication, and resilience of those who wear the Navy uniform, past and present. We equally salute the unyielding support of their families, the backbone behind their service.

Having served as an enlisted man on the Henry B. Wilson (DDG7), I’ve borne witness to numerous moments of camaraderie and growth. Yet, my time working alongside LCDR Nosal remains etched in my memory. His method of mentorship, a blend of wisdom and patience, was transformative. LCDR Nosal had this innate ability to identify potential and nurture it, turning raw talent into formidable skill. LCDR Nosal, wherever you are your commitment to building up those around you didn’t just make us better sailors but better individuals. You truly embodied what it means to lead with heart and purpose in the Navy.

This unwavering commitment, combined with the lessons from leaders like LCDR Nosal and others on board, inspired both the foundation of StrongerNavy.org and my personal desire to mentor and teach.

Our vision is clear: advocate for a robust, future-ready, and stronger Navy that stands guard over our nation’s interests and acts as a beacon of peace globally. Through our platform, we aim to amplify the importance of naval supremacy, champion the Navy’s forward-looking endeavors, and extend a helping hand to our Navy brethren and their kin.

A fortified Navy ensures our nation’s safety, prosperity, and the liberties we hold dear. This vision, however, can only be realized with your support. I invite you to champion our cause, to become an integral part of our fraternity. Your involvement can chart the course for our Navy’s brighter tomorrow.

Bill

October 13, 2023October 13, 2023

Welcome to Norfolk, HMS Prince of Wales: The British Carrier That’s Making Waves in the Atlantic

Hello, and welcome to the latest edition of our blog, where we share news and stories related to the U.S. Navy and its allies.

Today, we have a special story submitted by Dave L from North Carolina, who spotted a rare sight in Hampton Roads harbor: Britain’s largest aircraft carrier, HMS Prince of Wales. Thank you, Captain Dave L . of North Carolina for sharing this with us!

HMS Prince of Wales is a state-of-the-art warship that is visiting the U.S. for the next few months. It will be based at Naval Station Norfolk and will conduct joint exercises with the U.S. Navy. This is a great opportunity for our two navies to strengthen their cooperation and interoperability, as well as to showcase their capabilities and technologies.

HMS Prince of Wales is the second of two Queen Elizabeth class carriers built by the U.K., and it was commissioned in 2019. It is 280 meters long and can carry up to 40 aircraft, including F-35B stealth fighters, Merlin helicopters, and MV-22 Ospreys. It has a distinctive light blue color and two “islands” on its deck: one for navigation and flight control, and one for ship operations and command. It also has a “ski jump” on the bow, which helps the aircraft take off with a short runway.

HMS Prince of Wales is powered by Rolls Royce gas turbine engines, which provide electricity for propulsion and other systems. It does not have nuclear reactors like the U.S. carriers, but it can still operate for long periods without refueling. It also has a high degree of automation and digitalization, which reduces the crew size and increases efficiency.

HMS Prince of Wales is designed to be a versatile and adaptable platform that can perform various missions, such as carrier strike, air defense, amphibious assault, humanitarian aid, or diplomacy. It can also operate with different types of aircraft and drones, depending on the situation and the partner nation. For example, it can launch Mojave drones, which are unmanned aerial vehicles that can carry supplies, surveillance equipment, or weapons.

HMS Prince of Wales is not only a powerful asset for the U.K., but also a valuable ally for the U.S. The two navies have a long history of working together and sharing common values and interests. They are also part of the Five Eyes intelligence alliance, which includes Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. Together, they aim to promote peace and security in the world.

While in Norfolk, HMS Prince of Wales will train with the U.S. Navy in various scenarios and environments. It will also test its compatibility with the U.S. aircraft and systems, such as the Osprey tilt-rotor aircraft, which can fly faster, higher, and longer than the British helicopters.

The two navies will also exchange personnel and expertise to learn from each other.
HMS Prince of Wales is an impressive sight to behold in Hampton Roads harbor, and we are honored to have it as our guest. We hope you enjoyed this story and learned something new about our British friends. If you have any comments or questions, please feel free to leave them below. And if you have any stories or photos of your own that you would like to share please contact us by clicking here.

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