Saturday, August 23, 2008

USS Dallas Returns from Deployment

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Steven Myers, Commander Submarine Group 2 Public Affairs

The Los Angeles class fast-attack submarine, USS Dallas (SSN 700), returned to Naval Submarine Base New London, Aug. 21, after a highly successful six-month deployment to the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility.

Dallas lived up to her motto, "First in Harm's Way," by participating in several missions supporting U.S. strategic security objectives.

"I am really proud of them," said Capt. Emil Casciano, Submarine Squadron 2 commodore. "They deployed to the most challenging parts of the world and not only developed as a team, they exemplified the word 'teamwork' throughout their deployment. We are grateful to their families and friends for waiting as they did our nation's work."

Dallas Sailors lined up as a team on the pier and gave a "Dallas" cheer, which was echoed by waiting family and friends, before reuniting with loved ones.

"Being back is an unbelievable feeling. I am very proud of the crew and all they have accomplished during these last six months," said Cmdr. Dave Roberts, USS Dallas commanding officer. "Their ability to successfully deploy and execute required tasking was a direct reflection of their high state of readiness and extensive training."

During the deployment, Dallas' Sailors served as ambassadors for the Navy while visiting ports in Diego Garcia; Lamissol, Cyprus; Bahrain; Gibraltar and Rota, Spain.

With stealth, persistence, agility and firepower, submarines like Dallas are multi-mission capable – able to deploy and support special forces operations; disrupt and destroy an adversary's military and economic operations at sea; provide early strike from close proximity, and ensure undersea superiority.