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Scottsdale native serves aboard USS Annapolis

Posted 6/22/22

A Scottsdale native is serving aboard the USS Annapolis, one of the world’s most advanced nuclear-powered submarines.

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Neighbors

Scottsdale native serves aboard USS Annapolis

Posted

A Scottsdale native is serving aboard the USS Annapolis, one of the world’s most advanced nuclear-powered submarines.

Petty Officer, 2nd Class, Cameron Swain, a 2017 Desert Mountain High School graduate, joined the United States Navy four years ago.

“I joined the Navy because my uncle served as a captain in the Navy,” Swain stated in the press release. “I also wanted to pursue a bachelor’s of science degree in electrical engineering.”

Today, Swain serves as an information systems technician for submarines.

“My favorite part about my job is that I’m part of a very small percentage that have been on a submarine,” Swain stated. “I also get to travel the world and carry out missions vital to national security.”

According to the release, Swain believes the values required to succeed in the military are similar to those found in Scottsdale.

“My granddad always told me if you have a strong work ethic then you will do well in anything you set your mind to,” Swain stated.

Known as America’s “silent service,” the Navy’s submarine force operates a large fleet of technically advanced vessels. These submarines are capable of conducting rapid defensive and offensive operations around the world, in furtherance of U.S. national security.

There are three basic types of submarines: fast-attack (SSN), ballistic-missile (SSBN) and guided-missile submarines (SSGN).

Fast-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; conduct intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions; and engage in mine warfare.

The Navy’s ballistic-missile submarines, often referred to as “boomers,” serve as a strategic deterrent by providing an undetectable platform for submarine-launched ballistic missiles. SSBNs are designed specifically for stealth, extended patrols and the precise delivery of missiles.

Guided-missile submarines provide the Navy with unprecedented strike and special operation mission capabilities from a stealthy, clandestine platform.

Each SSGN is capable of carrying 154 Tomahawk cruise missiles, plus a complement of heavyweight torpedoes to be fired through four torpedo tubes.

As a member of the submarine force, Swain is part of a rich 121-year history of the U.S. Navy’s most versatile weapons platform, capable of taking the fight to the enemy in the defense of America and its allies.

Serving in the Navy means Swain is part of a team that is taking on new importance in America’s focus on rebuilding military readiness, strengthening alliances and reforming business practices in support of the National Defense Strategy, the release explained.

“The United States is a global force that protects freedom around the world and makes our enemy’s think twice before acting,” Swain stated.

With more than 90% of all trade traveling by sea, and 95% of the world’s international phone and internet traffic carried through underwater fiber optic, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity and security of the United States is directly linked to a strong and ready Navy.

There are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers while serving in the Navy.

“So far, I am most proud of being a leading petty officer of my division and molding junior sailors to be the best at their jobs,” Swain stated. “I’m also proud of qualify as chief of the watch and duty chief, a qualification usually held by chiefs and above ranks.”

As Swain and other sailors continue to train and perform the missions they are tasked with, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy, according to the release.

“Serving in the Navy means to me that I have to sacrifice some of my freedoms to give those back home a free way of life to enjoy,” Swain added.