By Erica R. Gardner
Navy Office of Community Outreach
PEARL HARBOR – A Merced native and 2013 Buhach Colony High School graduate is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard one of the world’s most advanced nuclear-powered submarines, USS Greeneville.
Seaman Douglas Xiong works as a sonar technician serving aboard the Pearl Harbor-based submarine, one of 56 fast-attack submarines in the U.S. Navy.
A Navy sonar technician is responsible for listening to the ocean and looking for other submarines and ships.
“I’ve always thought that it is better to talk less and think before you speak,” said Xiong. “I think it is a good skill to have.”
Jobs are highly varied aboard the submarine. Approximately 130 men and women make up the submarine’s crew, doing everything from handling weapons to maintaining nuclear reactors.
Attack submarines are designed to hunt down and destroy enemy submarines and surface ships; strike targets ashore with cruise missiles; carry and deliver Navy SEALs; carry out intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions; and engage in mine warfare. Their primary tactical advantage is stealth, operating undetected under the sea for long periods of time.
“Our submarine teams are small, elite, and rely heavily on extraordinary individual performance,” said Rear Adm. Daryl L. Caudle, commander, Submarine Forces, U.S. Pacific Fleet. “It is no surprise that our sailors continue to set the standard for excellence, and the country continues to be well served by their service and sacrifice. I couldn’t be more proud to lead this professional fighting force.”
According to Navy officials, because of the demanding environment aboard submarines, personnel are accepted only after rigorous testing and observation. Submariners are some of the most highly trained and skilled people in the Navy. Regardless of their specialty, everyone has to learn how everything on the ship works and how to respond in emergencies to become “qualified in submarines” and earn the right to wear the coveted gold or silver dolphins on their uniform.
Becoming a submariner is an accomplishment in itself. Xiong is also proud of earning the Global War on Terrorism medal.
“Both of my grandfathers were in the military and greatly influenced my decision to join,” said Xiong.
Challenging submarine living conditions build strong fellowship among the elite crew, Navy Officials explained. The crews are highly motivated, and quickly adapt to changing conditions. It is a busy life of specialized work, watches and drills.
“During the Vietnam war, my people, the Hmong people, assisted the United States. My grandfathers were able to bring our family to America. I feel that my service helps keep these freedoms alive for us all,” added Xiong.