The submarine is a strategic piece of military equipment that allows the United States Navy to expand its reach across the world’s oceans undetected. According to the official Navy website, however, only a mere 6% of Navy personnel actually serve on submarines. With so few servicemen and women ever stepping foot into this powerful undersea vessel, many people wonder what’s like to serve inside on one.
Long Deployment Times
It’s not uncommon for Navy personnel to serve for 60 days to several months on a submarine, all the while being restricted to the confounds of the submarine. Some people enjoy these long deployment times, as it gives them a chance to reflect while serving their country. But others find it difficult to stay on the seas for such a long period of time. Then again, if you have a problem with the ocean, you probably shouldn’t enlist in the Navy.
Stiff Training
If you want to serve on a submarine, be prepared to spend countless hours studying and training about the nuances of operating a sub at Nuke school. Navy personnel are typically required to spend a year and a half studying at Nuke school, reading text books, watching PowerPoint presentations, and performing hands-on training. It’s a tedious, time-consuming step towards serving on a submarine, but you’ll need this education to safely operate the sub.
The Oxygen is Low
You might be surprised to learn that oxygen levels on submarines are kept low. Granted, you can still breathe without fear or suffocating, but the oxygen levels are significantly lower than those on dry ground. This is because oxygen — in high concentrations — is a serious fire hazard. And the worst thing that can happen on a submarine when it’s thousands of feet submerged under the ocean is a fire. So, the Navy minimizes oxygen on its submarines, which in turn can lead to issues like longer-than-usual injury recovery times.
It’s Claustrophobic
If you have a fear of being confined in tight spaces, serving on a submarine probably isn’t for it. Conventional wisdom should tell you that the walls and ceilings are tight, very tight. From the mess hall to the sleeping quarters, there’s not much room for personnel to move around — and that’s okay. Submarines are designed for optical performance and efficiency, not comfort. Nonetheless, it’s still a claustrophobic environment that can make long deployment times just a little more difficult.
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About the author
Barry Mason is a proud third-generation American whose grandfather served in World War II. Born and raised in small-town Tennessee, Barry developed a deep appreciation for American history and traditions from an early age, learning about the sacrifices made by previous generations. Barry has spent over a decade writing about flag etiquette, patriotic traditions, military history, and the stories behind America's most cherished symbols. When he's not researching the fascinating history of Old Glory, you can find Barry volunteering at veterans' events, coaching youth baseball, or exploring America's national parks with his family. A firm believer in supporting American manufacturing and small businesses, Barry is passionate about celebrating the craftspeople who keep American traditions alive. He lives with his wife and two children in a home where the American flag flies proudly every day. Favorite quote: "Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction." - Ronald Reagan
