The Los Angeles-class fast attack submarine USS Louisville (SSN 724) arrived at Fleet Activities Yokosuka as part of its deployment to the Western Pacific, July 20.
With a crew of more than 145 Sailors and officers, Louisville will conduct a multitude of missions and showcase the latest capabilities of the submarine fleet.
“I am excited for my crew to be able to experience the great fleet support and rich Japanese culture,” said Cmdr. Lee P. Sisco , commanding officer of Louisville. “Our crew has performed superbly during our deployment, and now we look forward to hiking Mt. Fuji, where we will perform some reenlistments at the summit and award a submarine warfare pin to a newly qualified Louisville Sailor.”
Louisville is a multi-mission platform that can operate independently or in conjunction with a carrier strike group or joint forces, to support the U.S. Navy’s priorities worldwide.
“Since well before deployment, our goal has been to keep the ship in a high state of readiness through training, and take care of our Sailors,” said Chief of the Boat Joseph Bransfield . “The ‘sluggers’ on Louisville are alert, tenacious, persistent and competent, so we have met those goals. After all their hard work, our crew is excited to experience Japan and Mt. Fuji.”
For many of the crew members, this is their first time visiting Yokosuka.
“There is so much I would like to do in Yokosuka, it’s going to be hard to find the time,” said Fire Control Technician 3rd Class Tyler Franklin . “I’m really hoping to climb Mt. Fuji, or maybe experience a sumo match!”
Louisville’s WESTPAC port visits have been an eye-opening experience for many of the Sailors.
“To experience a different country, genuine Japanese cuisine, learn from the culture, and enjoy Japan’s unique natural beauty… these are all things that make me proud to do what I do,” added Fire Control Seaman Tyler Rubio . “ It is truly eye-opening to realize that ‘a global force for good’ isn’t just a slogan. There’s truth behind it!”
Measuring more than 360 feet long and weighing more than 6,000 tons when submerged, Louisville is one of the most advanced and stealthiest attack submarines in the world. This submarine uses stealth, mobility, endurance, and firepower to perform missions including undersea, surface, strike, mine, naval special warfare, battle-space preparation including intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance, and combat search and rescue.
Louisville is home-ported in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.
[mappress] Naval Today Staff, July 23, 2012; Image: US Navy