A native of Placentia, California, Seaman Apprentice Daniel Lucas is undergoing training to become part of a 123-year tradition of service beneath the ocean. Submariners like Lucas play a crucial role in carrying out the Defense Department’s strategic deterrence missions, which are of utmost importance. As a student at Navy Submarine School, Lucas is acquiring the necessary skills to operate aboard submarines and ensure the successful completion of missions worldwide.
Lucas explained, “I joined the Navy because I desired to be part of something greater than myself and acquire the professionalism that comes with it.”
Having attended El Dorado High School and graduating in 2014, Lucas acknowledges that the skills and values cultivated in Placentia are aligned with those required to excel in the military.
“I have always possessed a strong motivation and determination,” Lucas said. “I continue to carry these traits into my daily life and bring them into the Navy. Being motivated and determined enables me to be the best version of myself every day.”
These lessons have proved valuable for Lucas in his Navy service.
The Navy’s submarine force, known as America’s “Apex Predators,” operates an extensive fleet of technologically advanced vessels. These submarines possess the capability to execute rapid offensive and defensive operations worldwide, contributing to U.S. national security objectives.
There are three primary types of submarines: fast-attack submarines (SSN), ballistic-missile submarines (SSBN), and guided-missile submarines (SSGN).
Fast-attack submarines are specifically designed to track down and eliminate enemy submarines and surface vessels, launch cruise missiles at targets on land, transport and deploy Navy SEALs, conduct intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions, and engage in mine warfare. The Virginia-class SSN represents the pinnacle of submarine technology today, combining stealth and payload capacity to meet the demands of Combatant Commanders in the current era of strategic competition.
Ballistic-missile submarines, commonly referred to as “boomers,” serve as a strategic deterrent by offering an undetectable platform for launching submarine-launched ballistic missiles. SSBNs are tailored for stealth, extended patrols, and precise missile delivery. The Columbia-class SSBN, slated to replace the existing Ohio-class submarines, will be the largest, most capable, and advanced submarine produced by the United States, ensuring continuous sea-based strategic deterrence well into the 2080s.
Guided-missile submarines deliver unmatched strike and special operation capabilities to the Navy, all from a stealthy and clandestine platform. Each SSGN has the capacity to carry 154 Tomahawk cruise missiles, in addition to a complement of heavyweight torpedoes that can 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,” stated Adm. Mike Gilday, Chief of Naval Operations. “This is our calling. And I cannot imagine a calling more worthy.”
Serving in the Navy entails being part of a team that assumes an increasingly vital role in America’s efforts to strengthen alliances, modernize capabilities, expand capacities, and maintain military readiness in support of the National Defense Strategy.
Lucas emphasized, “The Navy plays a significant role in national security. We uphold maritime law and can be deployed anywhere, at any time, to answer the nation’s call.”
With 90 percent of global trade relying on sea routes and the security of undersea fiber optic cables being crucial for internet access, Navy officials consistently emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly tied to well-trained sailors and a strong Navy.
Lucas and the fellow sailors with whom he serves have numerous opportunities to achieve significant milestones during their military careers.
“I am most proud of earning the Honor Graduate Award in boot camp,” Lucas shared. “I received this award for achieving the highest GPA in my class.”
As Lucas and his fellow sailors continue their training and carry out missions, they take immense pride in serving their country as members of the United States Navy.
“It is a tremendous honor to serve in the world’s finest Navy,” Lucas expressed.
Lucas expresses deep gratitude to his family and girlfriend for their unwavering support, acknowledging their crucial role in making his Navy career possible.
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