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Congressional Delegation Visits USS Tucson

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS060225-03
Release Date: 2/25/2006 5:05:00 PM

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

PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii (NNS) -- The crew of USS Tucson (SSN 770) hosted a congressional delegation that included a Congressman whose district includes Tucson.

Rep. Jim Kolbe of Arizona, along with three other U.S. Representatives, met the nuclear-powered attack submarine Feb. 24 in Pearl Harbor's West Loch as it was preparing to go to sea for training.

Returning to the mainland from Indonesia, Kolbe said he wanted to take the time from his busy schedule while in Hawaii to meet with the submariners of Tucson.

While addressing the crew on the mess decks, Kolbe said he is proud of the work the submariners do for their country.

“This is the first time I have come back on the boat since it was launched," Kolbe said. "It’s great to see it fully operating and active, and it’s a great honor to be associated with it.”

Kolbe said the mission of the Sailors aboard Tucson is essential, not only in the Pacific, but throughout the world.

“I just wanted to say thank you for the wonderful job you are doing for our country," Kolbe said. "I am very impressed with the quality of the men and women that serve in our military.”

While aboard the submarine, the delegation visited the sonar and control rooms, and had a chance to meet with some of the crew members.

Cmdr. James Pitts, Tucson’s commanding officer, said he was delighted the delegation took the time to visit his crew.

“I think it’s a great opportunity for the delegation to come aboard and meet the crew," he said. "It also helps the crew understand what they do as representatives on a daily basis.”

Tucson, Ariz., native Electronics Technician Seaman Corey Field was glad to meet Kolbe aboard the submarine.

“I think it was great experience," he said. "It makes me proud to have him come down and talk about the submarine and my hometown.”

Rep. Lois Capps of California said she was thrilled to tour the submarine and meet with the submariners.

“It’s a pleasure to be here and to see the incredible technology, but I am more impressed with the quality of the submariners," he said. "Our country depends upon you, and we are incredibly proud of you.”