There Are Cultural Differences When Serving On America’s Three Types Of Nuclear Submarines

The guided-missile submarine USS Florida (SSGN 728) departs Naval Support Activity Souda Bay, Greece, May 24, 2013, following a routine port visit. The Florida was underway in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts. USN

Warzone/The Drive: The Cultural Differences Between Serving On America’s Three Types Of Nuclear Submarines

A veteran submariner explains how the experience of serving aboard a U.S. Navy submarine varies greatly based on the sub’s mission set.

When most people think of America’s nuclear submarine fleet, they imagine something of a monolithic force, but that’s not the case. Three general mission sets define the fleet and the experience of the crews that man it. As such, the experience of serving on a boat that services one mission set can vary drastically from doing so on one that services another. There is a unique culture, esprit de corps, and tempo to each that isn't often referenced or explained, but it is visceral to anyone who has been part of America’s modern 'silent service.'

In a follow-up to our recent look into the eccentric characters you will find aboard a U.S. Navy nuclear submarine and the culture that permeates such a unique profession, here are the cultural differences between serving aboard SSNs, SSBNs, and the rare and elite SSGN.

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WNU Editor: I have always believed that you must be a unique person to serve on these boats. This post kinda confirms it.