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Asheville Visits Subic During Western Pacific Deployment

Navy News Service

By 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade, I Marine Expeditionary Force | I Marine Expeditionary Force | June 11, 2013 Story Number: NNS130611-15
6/11/2013

By Lt. Cmdr. Lara Bollinger, Submarine Group 7 Public Affairs

SUBIC BAY, Republic of the Philippines (NNS) -- The Los Angeles class submarine USS Asheville (SSN 758) arrived at Subic Bay June 8 for a visit, as part of its deployment to the Western Pacific.

With a crew of approximately 150, Asheville will conduct a multitude of missions and showcase the latest capabilities of the submarine fleet.

'I am very proud of my talented crew aboard Asheville,' said Cmdr. Douglas Bradley, Asheville's commanding officer. 'They have worked extremely hard to prepare for maritime security operations in the Western Pacific. This port visit to the Republic of the Philippines highlights our nations' commitment to regional security partnerships with our Pacific allies, while providing a great cultural experience for my crew.'

Measuring more than 360 feet long and weighing more than 6900 tons when submerged, Asheville is one of the most advanced submarines in the world. The submarine is capable of supporting a multitude of missions, including anti-submarnie warfare, anti-surface ship warfare, strike, naval special warfare involving special operations forces, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance.

'The crew has been working extremely hard to get the Asheville ready for deployment,' said Chief of the Boat Roger Skeens. 'This port visit to Subic Bay will allow for much deserved rest and liberty for our men.'

For many of the crew members, this is their first time visiting Subic Bay.

'I am excited to pull into Subic Bay, represent the United States, and experience the culture of the Philippines,' said Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Andrew Blalock, Asheville's Sailor of the Year.

Asheville's Filipino American crew members, like Fire Control Technician Seaman Ryan Santos, will have the opportunity to explore their homeland and reconnect with their local relatives.

'I am excited to come back home to the Philippines to reconnect with my heritage, and visit my family while I am here,' said Santos.

Asheville is the 47th submarine of its class, and its capabilities include the submarine advanced combat control system, advanced rapid commercial off the shelf insertion sonar system, and superior electronic support measures capability. In addition to these tactical advances, retractable bow plans and a hardened sail provide the capability of operating in any of the world's oceans, including the Arctic Basin.

Home ported in San Diego, Calif., Asheville is part of Submarine Squadron Eleven.