Teehan maintains propulsion, electrical systems on submarine

BANGOR, Wash. – A Huntsville native is serving as part of a crew working aboard one of the world’s most advanced ballistic missile submarines, the USS Maine.

Petty Officer 2nd Class Trevor Teehan is an electronics technician serving aboard the USS Maine, one of 14 Ohio-class subs that are based in Bangor. Teehan is responsible for operating and maintaining nuclear propulsion and electrical systems.

“I like the challenges this position brings,” Teehan said. “Given that it’s been a long road to get here, I’m very proud of what I do.”

The USS Maine measures 560 feet long, 42 feet wide and weighs more than 16,500 tons. Its nuclear-powered propulsion system propels the ship at more than 20 knots.

The Navy’s ballistic missile submarines, often referred to as ‘boomers,’ serve as a strategic deterrent by providing an undetectable platform to launch ballistic missiles. Boomers are designed specifically for stealth, extended patrols and precise delivery of missiles, if directed by the U.S. President.

“Every day, I am extremely proud to lead and serve alongside the exceptionally talented men and women of the submarine force,” Captain Mark Schmall said. Schmall is Commodore of Submarine Squadron 17 of Bangor.

Submariners are some of the most highly trained and skilled people in the Navy. Teehan is part of the boat’s Blue crew, one of two rotating crews that allow the ship to deploy on missions more often without excessively taxing one crew.

This submarine’s typical crew has approximately 150 officers and enlisted sailors. “We’re like a small family, and aboard our sub that’s what I most enjoy,” Teehan said.

Ballistic missile submarines are an effective sea-based strategic deterrent because submarines are undetectable when submerged and provide adequate range to allow operations far from adversaries in broad ocean areas, Navy officials said.

“Serving in the Navy is all about opportunity,” Teehan said. “I know that the training I’ve received will prepare me for a future career in the civilian world.”

The Media Outreach Department with the Navy Office of Community Outreach in Millington, Tenn. produces these profiles. Lieutenant Robert Kearley researched this article. For more information, visit outreach.navy.mil, Facebook/Navy Outreach, Twitter @NavyOutreach or Instagram @US_Navy_Outreach.