I read today that when the USS Ohio finally retires, it will do so as the oldest continuous operating submarine in US History.
The first submarine of the class, the USS Ohio or SSBN-726, was commissioned in 1981, followed by 17 more vessels.
Though Ohio-class submarines were built to have a 30-year service life, most have been extended to 42 years through mid-life refueling and upgrades. They are a major element of U.S strategic defense until they are replaced by the upcoming Columbia-class submarines, the first of which are expected to enter service in the early 2030s.
If you really think about it, the Ohio has stood watch over America from the Cold War until now. I can hardly even imagine how many men and women have served on her and how many miles she has sailed. I’m sure someone has that information so would be curious to see if it actually exists.
She was the fourth out of the five submarines I served on. She was also the most challenging of the commands I served on for too many reasons. But she was certainly an important part of my navy journey. Without her, I would never have been able to transition to the Trident Training Facility. That assignment led to my making Chief and Later Chief Warrant Officer. I gained the title of Master Training Specialist and earned my Bachelor of Science degree which would later provide me with a second career that was fruitful and rewarding.
All of my other boats have long since been taken out of regular service. The USS George Washington sail sits out of the submarine base in Groton. Likewise, the original sail from the USS San Francisco sits outside of the birthplace of much of the nuclear navy at the Bettis Atomic plant. I have not been to where the USS Indianapolis sail is located but I’m told it is nice.
But the idea of preserving the Ohio is one worth considering.
It represents a generation that deserves to be remembered. Much like the Nautilus, she was a game changer.
Lots of decisions would have to be made on how best to preserve her.
Costs would also play into the equation. But in my opinion, it’s not outside of the realms of possibility. Every Monday, I report on board the USS Yorktown and teach naval heritage and history classes to young navy students from the nearby nuclear power training command. Can you imagine how fantastic it would be to teach that class in the wardroom or crews mess on board the 726 boat? The Yorktown also hosts many youth groups for sleepovers and so many other community functions.
theleansubmariner 