Submariners Reflect on 112 Years of Silent Service
By MC2 Ronald Gutridge
COMSUBPAC Public Affairs

Release Date: 4/11/2012

(HONOLULU) – Submariners, past and present and distinguished guests gathered at the National Cemetery of the Pacific in commemoration of 112 years of submarine service, April 11.

The event was sponsored by The United States Submarine Veterans Inc. (USSVI) Bowfin Base Subvets. USSVI was founded in 1965 by a group of U.S. Submarine Veterans of World War II.

The submarine force was born April 11, 1900 when the U.S. Navy bought the submersible Holland VI from John Holland. Today's submarine force consists of 53 attack, 14 ballistic-missile and four guided-missile submarines that enable the Navy and the nation to win wars, deter wars, defeat terrorists and ease disasters. Throughout the years many submariners made history, became heroes and paid the ultimate sacrifice for their country. Guest speaker Rear Adm. Frank Caldwell, Commander Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet, spoke about these brave men.

"Today we are going to remember our shipmates and gather strength in knowing all they sacrificed and all they accomplished," said Caldwell. "As we gather here at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific we remember those who have been honored at memorial ceremonies here, and we remember those who lay here in their final resting place. Among the souls here are those who served in all branches of our Armed Forces. Among the souls here are those who served in all facets of our Navy. Among the souls here are those who went down to the sea in submarines. And on our 112th birthday, it is fitting to remember all who have gone before and to remember those who rest here."

Following his remarks a rededication of the submarine memorial plaque took place. The submarine memorial plaque honors the contribution of the many brave men and women who have served with and supported the submarine force in the last 112 years as well as the 52 submarines that are on eternal patrol. The plaque rededication has been an April 11 annual event sponsored by USSVI Bowfin Base Subvets since the dedication in April 2000.

"It is a great honor to be here today, as it is every April 11th, to remember and pay tribute to the greatest submarine force in the world," said Retired Master Chief Electrician's Mate Chris Cunha of the United States Submarine Veterans Inc. (USSVI) Bowfin Base Subvets. "The submarine memorial plaque means so much to submariners, active duty and retired, that this ceremony is very necessary and will continue for many years to come."

A special bell tolling ceremony commenced to perpetuate the memory of the submariners and the 52 submarines that were lost in WW II and since. Each submarine name was acknowledged followed by a bell toll in remembrance of their sacrifices for our nation. A 21-gun salute followed by the playing of Taps and retiring of the colors closed out the ceremony.