USS Oklahoma City visits Singapore during Routine Patrol

By Ens. Samuel Theodoris, USS Oklahoma City Public Affairs Officer

SINGAPORE (NNS) -- The Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Oklahoma City (SSN 723) arrived in Singapore Sept. 30 for a visit as a part of its deployment to the Western Pacific.

With a crew of approximately 150, Oklahoma City showcased the latest capabilities of the submarine fleet.

"This is an incredible opportunity for the crew of Oklahoma City and the Singaporean Navy to share experiences in one of the most beautiful cities in the world," said Cmdr. Michael Conner, Oklahoma City's commanding officer. "Visits like this give both the visiting and host Sailors a venue to learn and teach, and to improve our capabilities to work together. I appreciate the opportunity to visit Singapore again."

Oklahoma City is one of the fastest and stealthiest submarines in the world.

"I'm proud of the fine crew that I'm a part of on Oklahoma City," said Master Chief Machinist's Mate Joseph Decker, the chief of the boat aboard Oklahoma City. "They have made it happen every day. No tasking is too much. With a fluid schedule - [they] have and continue to answer the call. We have about 90 percent of Sailors that will visit Singapore for the first time. This port visit is well deserved for the crew's hard work and dedication."

Many of the Sailors aboard Oklahoma City were eager to experience the Singaporean culture.

"Wow! I'm looking forward to many things," said Yeoman Seaman Devarious Carver. "I want to go sightseeing. I heard the night zoo is quite the attraction."

Measuring more than 360 feet long and weighing approximately 7,000 tons when submerged, Oklahoma City is one of the fastest and stealthiest submarines in the world and is capable of fulfilling a variety of missions.

Oklahoma City is home ported in Agana, Guam. It is one of the four submarines that are forward deployed and serving at the forefront of the nation's defense.

Tsunami Impact to U.S. Pacific Fleet Commands Minimal

From U.S. Pacific Fleet Public Affairs

PEARL HARBOR (NNS) -- Sailors around the Pacific today were preparing for the tsunami to reach their homeports while at the same time joining a worldwide chorus in expressing their concern for those in Japan.

Outside of Japan, the only notable effect to the Navy was in Guam, where wave action caused two submarines to break their mooring lines.

Tug boats from Naval Base Guam responded quickly and kept the subs USS City of Corpus Christi (SSN 705) and USS Houston (SSN 713), under control while crews moored the subs safely to the pier. Another sub, USS Oklahoma City (SSN 723), and USS Frank Cable (AS 40) remained safely moored there.

In Japan, there were no immediate reports of Navy casualties, while recall efforts were ongoing. Additionally, no significant damage to installations or ships was reported.

Ships in Pearl Harbor and San Diego remained in port. No damage was reported as the tsunami reached Hawaii shortly after 3 a.m. local.

We continue to monitor and assess the situation and are positioning forces so they are ready to respond and provide disaster relief if directed by the Secretary of Defense.

For more information from Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet, visit http://www.cpf.navy.mil/.