Petty Officer 3rd Class Dakota Grier.
A Needville, Texas native and 2012 Needville High School graduate is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard one of the world’s most advanced nuclear-powered submarines, USS Providence.
Petty Officer 3rd Class Dakota Grier works as an electronics technician serving aboard the Groton-based submarine in the U.S. Navy. A Navy electronics technician is responsible for operating and maintaining the nuclear reactor and associated systems.
“Confidence is the key to success,” said Grier. “This has kept me going in the Navy.”
Jobs are highly varied aboard the submarine. Approximately 130 sailors make up the submarine’s crew, doing everything from handling weapons to maintaining nuclear reactors. Attack submarines are designed to hunt down and destroy enemy submarines and surface ships; strike targets ashore with cruise missiles; carry and deliver Navy SEALs; carry out intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions; and engage in mine warfare. Their primary tactical advantage is stealth, operating undetected under the sea for long periods of time.
“The U.S. Navy submarine force has one of the highest operational tempos in the U.S. Navy, and Naval Submarine Support Center, New London plays a vital role in helping Groton-based submarines maintain their excellent readiness,” said Commander Brian J. Nowak, Commanding Officer, Naval Submarine Support Center, New London. “The warfighters operating the submarines at the tip of the spear, and those who are building the Navy’s newest nuclear-powered submarines can only do so because of the vast network of support they receive from the shore side. The professional sailors and civilians at Naval Submarine Support Center, New London serve a key role in that network.
According to Navy officials, because of the demanding environment aboard submarines, personnel are accepted only after rigorous testing and observation. Submariners are some of the most highly-trained and skilled people in the Navy. Regardless of their specialty, everyone has to learn how everything on the ship works and how to respond in emergencies to become “qualified in submarines” and earn the right to wear the coveted gold or silver dolphins on their uniform.
“Serving in the Navy means that I am a part of something bigger than myself, and I am doing something for my country,” added Grier.