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USS Pasadena Returns from Western Pacific Deployment

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS051223-01
Release Date: 12/23/2005 12:01:00 PM

From Chief Journalist (SW/AW) David Rush, Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet Public Affairs

PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii (NNS) -- Just in time for the holidays, the nuclear-powered attack submarine USS Pasadena (SSN 752) returned to its homeport of Pearl Harbor Dec. 22, following a six-month deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations.

The submarine deployed from Pearl Harbor June 22. While on deployment, Pasadena participated in various exercises, conducted missions, and helped to keep a forward naval presence in the theater. The crew visited various ports including Yokosoka and Sasebo, Japan; Guam; and Saipan.

According to Cmdr. John Heatherington, Pasadena’s commanding officer, his submariners did a great job.

“The crew performed superbly, and we met all of our 7th Fleet tasking," he said. "It’s a privilege for the crew and their families to be back for the holiday season. It feels good to be home.”

Capt. Barry Bruner, commodore, Submarine Squadron 7, said their return in time to enjoy the holidays is the highlight of a successful deployment.

“Long after the men of USS Pasadena are out of the Navy, they will remember the great days they spent together…one of the greatest days they will recall will be the day they arrived home from this successful deployment with everyone safe and with their families on the pier. It just doesn't get any better than that. The fact that they made it home just before the holiday season begins is icing on the cake,” said Bruner.

Bruner added that submarine’s role in the Western Pacific was very important.

“USS Pasadena’s mission was one that is clearly key to our country’s health and long-term survival. She routinely operated far from our shores, closer to where the war on terror regions are located," he said. "In addition to being ready to put ordnance on target when ordered, she practiced and prepared for battles that may be fought at any time in the future."

Commissioned Feb. 11, 1989, Pasadena is the second improved Los Angeles 688-class submarine and was built by General Dynamics Corporation, Electric Boat Division, Groton, Conn. It completed its last deployment Oct. 31, 2003.

Three other Pearl Harbor-based submarines, USS Santa Fe (SSN 763), USS Chicago (SSN 721), and USS Columbia (SSN 771), will remain deployed in the Western Pacific during the holidays.