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USS Portsmouth Returns Home, Earns Awards

Navy Newsstand

Story Number: NNS040212-12

Release Date: 2/12/2004 3:05:00 PM

By Lt. Kim Marks, Commander, Submarine Squadron 11 Public Affairs

NAVAL BASE POINT LOMA, Calif. (NNS) -- Following a successful six-month Western Pacific deployment, USS Portsmouth (SSN 707) returned home to San Diego Feb. 11. Upon their return, Portsmouth was awarded the 2003 Commander, Submarine Squadron 11 Tactical White 'T,' Communications Green 'C' and the Damage Control Red 'DC.'

The Tactical White 'T,' Communications Green 'C,' and the Damage Control Red 'DC' are annual awards presented to the submarine that exhibits the highest state of readiness in each department and mission area within the squadron.

"The crew are dedicated and worked very hard, it was extremely satisfying to have their efforts recognized in three distinct areas," said Cmdr. Kevin Brenton, Portsmouht's commanding officer. "I'm very proud of them."

During the deployment, 24 Sailors completed their warfare qualifications and earned their "dolphins." The designation of a Sailor as qualified in submarines earns him the right to wear the dolphin insignia and signifies that he has acquired specific skills, knowledge and experience, has demonstrated proficiency in all aspects of the submarine's operations and is a trusted member of the ship's crew.

"Being on the Portsmouth is all about coming together as a team to get the job done," said Master Chief Electronics Technician and Chief of the Boat Daniel Adley. "We had a lot of junior Sailors on this deployment who took advantage of the time underway to work on their professional development and qualifications."

While on deployment, Portsmouth conducted operations throughout the Western Pacific. The submarine steamed nearly 36,000 nautical miles and successfully accomplished three missions of great significance to national security for which they were awarded the Navy Expeditionary Medal (two awards).

They also participated in various exercises with U.S. assets and allied countries, and enjoyed port visits in Guam; Sasebo and Yokosuka, Japan; Chinhae, South Korea; Singapore; and Oahu, Hawaii.

"The deployment was great, and we had some good liberty ports," exclaimed Machinist's Mate 2nd Class Thomas Mitchell. "We had a great crew, and the camaraderie was top-notch."

"This was the best deployment I've ever been on. We were proud to have the opportunity to serve our country, and we're glad to be home," Addley added.

Portsmouth, a Los Angeles-class attack submarine, has a crew of 132 Sailors. The submarine celebrated its 20th Birthday while on deployment. The boat was commissioned in Portsmouth, N.H., Oct. 1, 1983.