Island Lake native serves aboard Navy submarine
Submitted by the Navy Office of Community Outreach
A 2011 Wauconda High School graduate and Island Lake native will be serving in the U.S. Navy as part of a crew working aboard one of the world's most advanced ballistic missile submarines.
Petty Officer 3rd Class Benjamin Heath, a missile technician, will be serving aboard one of the 14 Kings Bay-based Ohio-class ballistic missile submarines.
As a missile technician, Heath is responsible for providing the maintenance and upkeep for the missiles on the sub, which is a factor in helping to provide strategic deterrence.
"I like that this job will give me the opportunity to learn new things that will help me progress in my career," Heath said.
The Navy's ballistic missile submarines, often referred to as "boomers," serve as undetectable launch platforms for intercontinental ballistic missiles. They are designed specifically for stealth, extended patrols and the precise delivery of missiles, and they are the only survivable leg of the nation's strategic nuclear forces, which also include land-based missiles and aircraft. The Ohio-class design allows the submarines to operate for 15 or more years between major overhauls.
According to Navy officials, submarine sailors are some of the most highly trained and skilled people in the Navy. The training is highly technical and each crew has to be able to operate, maintain, and repair every system or piece of equipment on board. Regardless of their specialty, everyone also 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.
"We demand the highest standards from our sailors - both professionally and personally," said Rear Adm. Randy Crites, commander, Submarine Group 10 in Kings Bay. "Their chain of command, family and our great nation take immense pride in their devotion and service. These sailors are absolutely crucial to ensuring our ships and submarines are operating at their best - always mission ready, providing our nation with the greatest Navy the world has ever known. I'm so very proud these sailors are on our team."
"The best part of serving on a submarine is it gives me an opportunity to get out and learn a new job in an unique environment," Heath said.
As a member of one of the U.S. Navy's most relied-upon assets, Heath and other sailors know they are part of a legacy that will last beyond their lifetimes.
"Serving in the Navy has taught me to have a stronger work ethic and made me a more hard working person," Heath said.
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