Golden opportunity enriches USS Santa Fe Sailors

Excerpt from NSL UPDATE 07-18-2003

Since 07-21-03

By JO3 Corwin Colbert, COMSUBPAC Public Affairs
(Anyone interested in a picture please send  an email to SUBLEAGUE@STARPOWER.NET)

(PEARL HARBOR, HI) -- What is the connection between USS Santa Fe (SSN 763) and the San Francisco Gold Rush cheerleading squad? Absolutely nothing, but that didn’t phase the crew of the Santa Fe. “The crew was in disbelief when we found out they were coming to do a tour on our submarine. I am excited,” said Sonar Technician 1st Class Devon Durham, a faithful Forty-Niners fan.

The tour began on the pier with Cmdr. Andrew Hale, commanding officer of USS Santa Fe who gave brief welcoming remarks. The squad crossed the brow and proceeded to the wardroom where they received a power point presentation of what the submarine can do. Then the squad began a wide-eyed journey through the passageways on their way to the control room, passing surprised Sailors.

“I didn’t know they were coming until yesterday. Normally it is the same old thing, getting grimy and turning wrenches, but their visit is definitely something out of the ordinary,” said Machinist’s Mate 1st Class Jeremy Goone, another Forty-Niners loyalist. “It was unusual, more people wanted to stay and work today,” Goone added.

While in the control room, the squad was given an explanation of how the ship navigates. “I think it is amazing and impressive what you guys do. I get lost driving and you navigate through the ocean. I think it is amazing the technology you have and the people you have working together,” said Nicole Dupler, one of the captains of the squad. “There are no words to explain how great it is to be here. I only see submariners in movies. What you guys do is honorable and very brave. I thank you,” said Sabrina Chaudhry, another squad captain. “You are giving up a lot to protect our rights and our freedom. Please ask for pictures or autographs because you do so much more for us,” added Dupler.

After looking through the periscope, the squad visited various spaces then ended up in the crew’s mess where they were greeted by a very enthusiastic crowd. They signed autographs and took group photos with the crew, then assembled along the brow for a final photo group shot ending the Santa Fe tour. “It was a successful tour and a great morale booster for the crew. I think it is important for the general public to see the dedication and sacrifice in what the crew members do,” said Lt. Cmdr. Jeff Manning, executive officer of USS Santa Fe. “We should have tours like this one once a month!”