By Megan Brown / Navy Office of Community Outreach
Kaiser joined the Navy eight years ago and today serves as a sonar technician (submarines) at Trident Training Facility Kings Bay.
“I joined the Navy because I was tired of doing the same thing every day and expecting different results,” said Kaiser. “I joined late in age but it was worth it.”
Growing up in Tempe, Kaiser attended Marcus De Nira and graduated in 2001.
Skills and values similar to those found in Tempe are similar to those required to succeed in the military.
“I learned in my hometown to support my family and friends at all costs because I wouldn’t be the person I am today without them,” said Kaiser.
These lessons have helped Kaiser while serving in the Navy.
Known as America’s “Apex Predators!,” the Navy’s submarine force operates a large fleet of technically-advanced vessels. These submarines 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 Virginia-class SSN is the most advanced submarine in the world today. It combines stealth and payload capability to meet Combatant Commanders’ demands in this era of strategic competition.
The Navy’s 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. The Columbia-class SSBN will be the largest, most capable and most advanced submarine produced by the U.S. – replacing the current Ohio-class ballistic-missile submarines to ensure continuous sea-based strategic deterrence into the 2080s.
Guided-missile submarines provide the Navy with unprecedented strike and special operation mission capabilities from a stealthy, clandestine platform. Each SSGN is capable of carrying 154 Tomahawk cruise missiles, plus a complement of heavyweight torpedoes to be fired through four torpedo tubes.
“Our mission remains timeless – to provide our fellow citizens with nothing less than the very best Navy: fully combat ready at all times, focused on warfighting excellence, and committed to superior leadership at every single level,” said Adm. Mike Gilday, Chief of Naval Operations. “This is our calling. And I cannot imagine a calling more worthy.”
Strategic deterrence is the Nation’s ultimate insurance program, according to Navy officials. As a member of the submarine force, Kaiser is part of a rich history of the U.S. Navy’s most versatile weapons platform, capable of taking the fight to the enemy in the defense of America and its allies.
Serving in the Navy means Kaiser is part of a team that is taking on new importance in America’s focus on strengthening alliances, modernizing capabilities, increasing capacities and maintaining military readiness in support of the National Defense Strategy.
“The Navy keeps our nation safe by providing strategic nuclear deterrence 24/7 across the world,” said Kaiser.
With 90 percent of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to trained sailors and a strong Navy.
Kaiser and the sailors they serve with have many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during their military service.
“I am most proud of USS Alaska winning the Meritorious Unit Commendation and Battle E awards three times which symbolized submarine excellence,” said Kaiser. “Not everyone can achieve that as a team so I am proud of being a part of that.”
As Kaiser and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.
“Serving in the Navy means that I am willing to sacrifice everything to ensure the safety of everyone,” said Kaiser.
Kaiser is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I would like to thank Steven Proctor, Jared West and Adam Kenblowski for being great mentors to me throughout my Navy career,” added Kaiser.