Los Angeles-class submarine USS Cheyenne (SSN 773) welcomed the mayor of Cheyenne, Wyo. along with other guests Nov. 8, for a special distinguished visitor embark to commemorate the 15th anniversary of the submarine’s commissioning.
Mayor Rick Kaysen and guests received a warm welcome and began to learn about life aboard the submarine. Shortly after Cheyenne departed, all guests were briefed on general safety procedures and received a basic overview on the mission and history of USS Cheyenne.
“It is such a pleasure to have the mayor and guests from the city that we represent onboard with us today and the opportunity to demonstrate the capabilities of what this submarine and, more importantly, what her crew does on a daily basis to protect our country,” said Cmdr. Gary Rogeness , commanding officer, USS Cheyenne . “Not all submarines have as good a relationship with their namesake city as we do. It is truly an honor to have their support and appreciation.”
The guest tour included many events such as observing the boat at sea from atop of the sail, enjoying a meal on the mess decks and seeing submarine operations from the control center, all of which familiarized them with what a submariner experiences on a daily basis.
“It is such an honor to be with these Sailors that represent our city and carry that city’s name throughout the oceans and across the globe,” said Kaysen, “The most impressive thing about this visit is the people that make this submarine work. The pride they have in carrying out their motto ‘Ride the Legend’ and the level of confidence and professionalism is truly amazing and makes me proud to be a resident of Cheyenne and an American.”
The crew demonstrated various submarine maneuvers including “angles and dangles” which test the integrity of the submarine’s interior safety by making sure everything is tied down and secure. They also witnessed the notional firing of a torpedo which allowed the guests to hear and feel the effects of the firing blast without actually discharging a weapon.
“I think it is great that the folks from Cheyenne, Wyo. took the time to visit us and experience first hand what we do,” said Electronics Technician 2nd Class (SS) Jason Wright. “After hearing about all the history of Cheyenne, Wyo. they get to see how we make history.”
At the conclusion of the cruise, participants who completed their Honorary Submariner Personal Qualification Standard card were recognized during an awards ceremony. Awardees received certificates presented to them by Senior Chief Electronics Technician (SS) Michael Hinkle, Cheyenne chief of the boat, and a photo of themselves on the cruise in remembrance of their visit aboard Cheyenne.
“I really didn’t know what to expect being that this was my first time on a submarine, but the crew did an outstanding job answering all of my questions and explaining the submarine,” said Tara Hinsch from Cheyenne, Wyo. “ It really gives me a deeper appreciation for not only submariners, but all of the men and women serving in the military and protecting our country.”
USS Cheyenne is the third ship of the United States Navy to be named for Cheyenne, Wyoming. The contract to build her was awarded to Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company in Newport News, Va. Nov. 28, 1989 and her keel was laid down July 6, 1992. She was launched on April 16, 1995, and commissioned on Sept. 13, 1996, with Commander Peter H. Ozimik in command. Cheyenne transferred to her homeport of Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, in 1998.
[mappress] Source: navy, November 11, 2011