FLEET ACTIVITIES YOKOSUKA, Japan – The Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Pasadena (SSN 752) arrived at the Fleet Activities Yokosuka Dec. 22 for a visit as part of its Indo-Asia-Pacific patrol.
With a crew of approximately 150, Pasadena has been conducting a multitude of missions and maintaining proficiencies of the latest capabilities of the submarine fleet. Pasadena’s participation in exercises with various foreign navies from around the Pacific Rim will also aid in solidifying the U.S. role in international maritime operations.
“The crew and I are excited to visit Japan, one of our strongest and closest allies and to experience the region’s rich heritage and culture,” said Cmdr. Kenneth Douglas, commanding officer. “The crew has performed exceptionally during the first half of the deployment. Pasadena’s presence in the Western Pacific demonstrates our commitment to the security and stability of the region and will help strengthen our ties with our partner nations.”
Measuring 360 feet long and displacing more than 6,900 tons when submerged, Pasadena is one of the most capable and technologically advanced submarines in the world. The ship supports a wide range of missions, including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface ship warfare, strike and naval special warfare.
“The Pasadena Sailors look forward to enjoying the change of season Japan has to offer,” said Senior Chief Petty Officer Matthew Kwiecinski, chief of the boat. “The officers and crew will enjoy some well-deserved rest prior to beginning the second leg of a demanding deployment. During the transit from San Diego to Yokosuka we had 10 first-time deployers earn and receive their submarine dolphins, which is a credit to their exceptional determination and strong work ethic.”
The officers and crew of Pasadena are excited to be in Japan and on deployment to the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. This represents the culmination of years of hard work on the part of each crewmember.
“I’m very excited to be returning to Yokosuka,” said Petty Officer 1st Class Andrew Bishop, Pasadena’s Junior Sailor of the Year. “I love the Japanese culture and lifestyle. I think I am very fortunate to be able to be in Japan again because this is an experience you cannot get anywhere else in the world.”
Commissioned in July of 1991 and currently homeported in San Diego, Pasadena is the U.S. Navy’s second Improved 688 class nuclear-powered submarine. Throughout its proud and illustrious 25-year history, Pasadena has deployed to and conducted operations in virtually every part of the world.
Today Pasadena continues to answer the call of duty in conducting yet another Indo-Asia-Pacific patrol, truly living up to its motto of “Anytime, Anywhere.”