USS Olympia Visits Yokosuka, Japan

Los Angeles class fast attack submarine USS Olympia (SSN 717) arrived at Fleet Activities Yokosuka Aug. 20 for a visit as part of its deployment to the Western Pacific.

With a crew of approximately 140, Olympia will conduct a multitude of missions and showcase the latest capabilities of the U.S. submarine force.

“Olympia’s crew is enthusiastic and ready to conduct deployed operations,” said Cmdr. Michael Boone, Olympia’s commanding officer. “Our Sailors are excited to enjoy the unique culture and hospitality of the Japanese people, and are especially pleased to have an opportunity to climb to the summit of Mt. Fuji … an experience I was able to enjoy more than seventeen years ago on my first visit to Japan.”

Measuring more than 370 feet long and weighing more than 9600 tons when submerged, Olympia is one of the stealthiest submarines in the world. This submarine is capable of supporting a multitude of missions, including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface ship warfare, strike, naval special warfare involving special operations forces, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, irregular warfare and mine warfare.

“The Sailors aboard this fine submarine have worked hard to take on the task of embarking on this six-month deployment,” said Machinist Mate Master Chief Richard J. Salisbury, chief of the boat. “Japan is a magnificent country to visit, full of unique traditions and so much history. The crew is excited and eager to visit all the local popular cultural sites. We are so grateful for this opportunity to explore Japan and strengthen the military ties between our countries.”

For many of the crew members, this is their first time visiting Japan.

“One of the reasons I love the Navy so much is because they give you a chance to see the world,” said Yeoman 2nd class Victor Diaz-Incle. “I’ve been places many people would only dream of going, and now I get to add Japan to my list of experiences.”

Named for the city of Olympia, Washington, this submarine is the second United States ship to bear the namesake. Olympia is home ported in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.

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Naval Today Staff, August 21, 2012; Image: US Navy