1000th Trident Submarine Deterrent Patrol

By Bull Nav

Today marks a significant event for our 14 Trident SSBNs.

KINGS BAY NAVAL SUBMARINE BASE, Ga. — A coastal Georgia military base is celebrating a milestone for the Navy’s fleet of nuclear-armed submarines — the 1,000th patrol since the first Trident missile sub launched in 1981.

Since 1960, our fleet of ballistic missile carrying submarines have patrolled the oceans carrying their nuclear payload. Conceived during the Cold War, these submariners have toiled in silence through good times and bad. During the Viet Nam War, through the '70s, the Reagan build up, and the peaceful era that was the '90s. From 9/11/01 to the present, these sailors have put their lives on hold for months at a time to conduct the strategic deterrent patrols which are necessary to our national security.

Tip a glass this evening to the success of these fine ships in that they have never had to launch in anger (thanks, Richard!).

February 19, 2009 10:16 AM Submarine Warfare

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Comments

I made eight patrols aboard the USS Ulysses S. Grant SSBN631 from 1968 to 1975 - two in the Pacific, then 6 more out of Holy Loch, Scotland. While I was in the Navy, we were discouraged from wearing our uniforms in public. No one ever thanked me for my service.

Thank you for thinking of all the dedicated submariners who serve in silence to protect our country.

Richard S. Lowry FTB1(SS)

Richard S. Lowry · February 19, 2009 02:55 PM

I've lifted my glass tonight to my Navy brothers who served in the silent service. Cheers for a slightly different Silent Warrior.
RC-130A.

Ron Lego SSGT USAFSS · February 19, 2009 08:17 PM

I thank all my brothers that have served in the silent service prior to my years and years to follow.

"Run Silent, Run Deep"

Trever Elder ET1(SS) USN · March 1, 2009 06:10 PM

I made 2 patrols on GW(SSBN 598) was transfered to Piper(SS 409) prior to discharge I'm having trouble geting Nuclear deterrent patrol badge,any suggestions,Thanks,Tom Mc Cool

Tom Mc Cool · July 3, 2009 05:48 PM