Duvall native serves aboard a U.S. Navy Ballistic Missile Submarine

Published 10:30 am Sunday, August 21, 2016

A 2010 Cedarcrest High School graduate and Duvall native is serving in the U.S. Navy as part of a crew working aboard one of the world’s most advanced ballistic missile submarines, the USS Henry M. Jackson.

Petty Officer 2nd Class Tyler Skelton is an electronics technician serving aboard the Bangor-based boat, one of 14 Ohio-class ballistic missile submarines.

A Navy electronics technician is responsible for ensuring that all electrical equipment and power generators are working properly.

“I like the amount of oversight I have in my role, as well as the sense of importance in what I do,” said Skelton.

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. They are designed specifically for stealth, extended patrols and the precise delivery of missiles. The Ohio-class design allows the submarines to operate for 15 or more years between major overhauls.

On average, the submarines spend 77 days at sea followed by 35 days in-port for maintenance.

“Serving on this sub means that we’re all working together to protect our nation,” said Skelton.

According to Navy officials, because of the demanding environment aboard submarines, personnel are accepted only after rigorous testing and observation. Regardless of their specialty, everyone also has to learn how everything on the ship works and how to respond in emergencies to become “qualified in submarines” and earn the right to wear the coveted gold or silver dolphins on their uniform.

“Service in the Navy has afforded me the opportunity to further advance my education and receive on-the-job training,” added Skelton.