USS Maine Returns from Patrol

From Commander, Submarine Group 9 Public Affairs

BANGOR, Wash. (NNS) -- USS Maine (SSBN 741) (Gold) crew members returned to Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor March 30, ending its 71-day strategic deterrent patrol.

"I was most impressed with the performance of my crew, especially considering the limited sea time we've had over the past year," said Cmdr. Richard Massie, USS Maine (Gold) commanding officer. "They pulled together with professionalism, motivation, and a positive attitude to overcome all challenges."

USS Maine's patrol began Jan. 19. During this time, a total of eight Sailors – seven enlisted and one officer – completed their submarine qualifications. As a result, those Sailors earned the right to wear the traditional submariner's dolphins.

"These Sailors are truly outstanding; I look forward to our next opportunity to perform at sea," Massie said.

Maine also saw four Gold Crew Sailors come home as new fathers.

USS Maine is one of eight ballistic missile submarines homeported aboard Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor, providing the survivable leg of the nation's strategic deterrent forces.

This Day in Naval History - March 16

From the Navy News Service

1911 - The hulk of battleship USS Maine is sunk at sea with full military honors.

1945 - The island of Iwo Jima is declared secure.

1966 - Gemini 8 is launched. Former naval aviator Neil Armstrong flew on this mission, which completed seven orbits in 10 hours, 41 minutes at an altitude of 161.3 nautical miles. Recovery was by USS Leonard F. Mason (DD 852).

This Day in Naval History - Feb. 15

From the Navy News Service

1856 - USS Supply, commanded by Lt. David Dixon Porter, sails from Smyrna, Syria, bound for Indianola, Texas, with a load of 21 camels intended for experimental use in the American desert west of the Rockies.

1898 - The battleship USS Maine "mysteriously" blows up in Havana Harbor in Cuba, killing more than 260 Sailors and Marines while injuring scores more. The tragedy sparks the Spanish-American War.