A Sylvania native is stationed at Naval Base Kitsap homeport to west coast ballistic-missile and guidedmissile submarines.
Lt. Luke Armstrong joined the Navy to continue a family tradition, and currently serves as a submarine officer.
“I joined the Navy because I wanted to serve a higher purpose, and I wanted to give back to my country,” said the lieutenant. “My grandfather served in World War II, so I have a family history of naval service as well.”
Lt. Armstrong attended Northview High School and graduated in 2011. He credits his hometown for providing him with skills and values he continues to use today.
“My hometown taught me to help others, to work as a team, to work hard and to not be content with where you’re at or what you’ve already achieved,” he said.
These lessons have helped while serving with Commander, Submarine Group 9.
Known as America’s “Apex Predators!,” the Navy’s submarine force operates a large fleet of technically-advanced vessels that are capable of conducting rapid defensive and offensive operations around the world, in furtherance of U.S. national security.
There are three basic types of submarines: fast-attack submarines (SSN), ballistic-missile submarines (SSBN) and guided-missile submarines (SSGN).
Fast-attack submarines are designed to hunt down and destroy enemy submarines and surface ships; strike targets ashore with cruise missiles; carry and deliver Navy SEALs; conduct intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions; and engage in mine warfare.
The ballistic-missile submarines, often referred to as “boomers,” serve as a strategic deterrent by providing an undetectable platform for submarine-launched ballistic missiles. SSBNs are designed specifically for stealth, extended patrols and the precise delivery of missiles.
Guided-missile submarines provide unprecedented strike and special operation mission capabilities from a stealthy, clandestine platform. Each is capable of carrying 154 Tomahawk cruise missiles, plus a complement of heavyweight torpedoes to be fired through four torpedo tubes.
Strategic deterrence is the nation’s ultimate insurance program, according to Navy officials, and for decades Naval Submarine Base Bangor has been home to Ohio Class ballistic-missile submarines.
Beginning in 2028, the new Columbia Class ballistic-missile submarines will arrive and provide continuous sea-based strategic deterrence into the 2080s.
Lt. Armstrong has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during his military service.
“My proudest accomplishment is qualifying as a submarine warfare officer,” he said. “It’s a pretty powerful experience to be the Officer of the Deck for a $3 billion nuclear-powered warship.”
He takes pride in serving in the U.S. Navy.
“To me, serving in the Navy means accepting personal sacrifice and discomfort in exchange for the peace and comfort of families at home.” He added, “It means working with the best branch and people the military has to offer.”
