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Pride Runs Deep and Silent Service: The U.S. Navy Submariner Motto - Tactically Acquired

Pride Runs Deep and Silent Service: The U.S. Navy Submariner Motto

The United States Navy Submarine Force, known as the "Silent Service," has long been admired for its stealth, dedication, and ability to protect our nation's interests beneath the ocean's surface. The motto "Pride Runs Deep" has served as a guiding principle for submariners, fostering a sense of camaraderie and underscoring the importance of their mission. In this blog, we'll explore the history and significance of the U.S. Submariner Motto, delving into the qualities that make these underwater warriors truly exceptional.

A Brief History of the U.S. Submarine Force

The U.S. Navy submarine force has a rich and fascinating history that spans over a century. The Navy's first submarine, the USS Holland, was commissioned in 1900 and marked the beginning of a new era of naval warfare. Since then, the submarine force has played a critical role in protecting the United States' interests and projecting its power around the world.

During World War II, the submarine force was instrumental in crippling the Japanese navy and merchant fleet, and played a key role in securing victory in the Pacific. The "Silent Service" continued to evolve and expand in the decades that followed, with the development of nuclear-powered submarines and ballistic missile submarines.

USS Flasher (SS-249) underway, c. 1944.

USS Flasher (SS-249) underway, c. 1944.
One of the most significant events in the history of the U.S. Navy submarine force was the Cold War, during which the Navy's ballistic missile submarines provided a crucial deterrent against Soviet aggression. These submarines were armed with nuclear-tipped missiles and were capable of remaining hidden for months on end, ready to launch a devastating counterattack in the event of a nuclear attack.

Today, the U.S. Navy submarine force remains one of the most advanced and effective in the world. Its submarines are equipped with state-of-the-art technology and play a vital role in protecting national security and projecting U.S. power abroad. The legacy of the submarine force is a testament to the bravery, skill, and dedication of the men and women who have served in its ranks, and its continued importance in an ever-changing global landscape is a testament to its enduring relevance.

Pride Runs Deep: The Essence of the Submariner Motto

The submariner motto, "Pride Runs Deep," represents the unique and unwavering commitment of submariners to their profession, their shipmates, and their country. These brave men and women volunteer for this challenging duty, knowing full well the inherent risks and sacrifices that come with living and working in the unforgiving depths of the ocean.

The pride submariners take in their work stems from the knowledge that their actions have a direct impact on national security. They understand that their role in maintaining a strong deterrent force is crucial to the overall success of the U.S. military. This pride extends beyond individual accomplishments and forms the foundation of the tight-knit submarine community.

Silent Service: Stealth and Secrecy

The nickname "Silent Service" highlights the stealth and secrecy that are hallmarks of submarine operations. Operating in the depths of the ocean, far from the public eye, submarines must maintain radio silence and avoid detection by enemy forces. This requires incredible skill, discipline, and precision from submariners, who must rely on their training and intuition to navigate these treacherous waters.

The Silent Service is often called upon to carry out covert operations, gather intelligence, and conduct strategic patrols. Their ability to remain undetected is essential for the success of these missions, making the submarine force a potent asset in times of conflict and peace alike.

USS Sam Rayburn showing the hatches for the UGM-27 Polaris missiles
Submariners: An Elite Brotherhood

The U.S. Navy submarine force is renowned for its elite brotherhood of highly trained and skilled professionals. Submariners are recognized for their unwavering commitment to duty, their readiness to work in challenging and confined environments, and their proficiency in operating some of the most advanced technology in the world.

The reason behind the submariner's elite brotherhood is the rigorous training that they must undergo. The training pipeline for submarine service is comprehensive and challenging, with each sailor required to complete multiple levels of qualification before they can be considered fully qualified to serve aboard a submarine. This training includes extensive classroom instruction, hands-on experience with submarine systems, and intense simulations and drills.

Sailors assigned to the Blue Crew of the Ohio-class guided-missile submarine USS Michigan (SSGN 727)

Sailors assigned to the Blue Crew of the Ohio-class guided-missile submarine USS Michigan (SSGN 727).

Moreover, submariners face unique challenges while serving aboard a submarine. Submarines operate in an unforgiving environment, with limited space, resources, and communication with the outside world. Submariners must work together as a team to keep the submarine running smoothly, and must rely on each other for their safety and survival.

Finally, the bonds that submariners form while serving together are unparalleled. The shared experiences of serving aboard a submarine create a deep sense of camaraderie and brotherhood among submariners, and many remain close long after their service has ended. The elite brotherhood of the U.S. Navy submarine force is a tribute to the skill, devotion, and teamwork of these highly trained professionals.

The U.S. Submariner Motto in Modern Times

The motto "Pride Runs Deep" continues to resonate with submariners today, as they face new challenges and threats in an increasingly complex world. The Silent Service remains at the forefront of technological innovation, with new submarine designs and advanced weaponry systems ensuring that the U.S. Navy maintains its edge beneath the world's oceans.

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