Friday, March 16, 2012

Submarine USS Jefferson City Returns from Deployment

NAVAL BASE POINT LOMA, Calif. (NNS) -- Friends and families of Sailors aboard Los Angeles-class, fast-attack submarine USS Jefferson City (SSN 759) welcomed home the submarine and its crew today following a six-month deployment to the Western Pacific.

The deployment supported the Maritime Strategy, which includes maritime security, forward presence, sea control and power projection.

During the deployment, Jefferson City covered more than 30,000 nautical miles and executed missions vital to national security. Jefferson City also participated in U.S. and multinational naval exercises.

"Jefferson City enjoyed a tremendously productive and rewarding deployment in support of U.S. national interests in the Middle East. Making our deployment even more valuable, Jefferson City deployed with some unique capabilities," said Jefferson City Commanding Officer Cmdr. Brien Dickson. "The crew's phenomenal initiative and tireless dedication enabled the ship to aggressively execute her assignments and overcome numerous challenges."

Additionally, while deployed, 14 crew members reenlisted, 12 obtained their Submarine Warfare Pin and 26 crew members were promoted.

"I am very proud of the crew and their accomplishments. I'm also especially thankful for the support of the entire Jefferson City extended family that faithfully supported their Sailors throughout the extended deployment," said Dickson.

Jefferson City is home to approximately 130 crew members. Jefferson City was commissioned Feb. 29, 1992, and is named in honor of Jefferson City, Mo. Jefferson City is one of six Los Angeles-class, fast-attack submarines homeported in San Diego.