USS Tucson submarine makes home at Naval Base Guam, USS Jefferson City returns to Hawaii
BY KATIE AIZON
Journal Staff
U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Bryan Mai
The Los Angeles-class fast attack submarine USS Tucson made its homeport at the Naval Base Guam, replacing the USS Jefferson City on July 10.
The USS Tucson is assigned to the Submarine Squadron 15.
With the USS Jefferson City returning to Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, the Navy affirmed the transition supports the Navy’s Strategic Laydown Plan, which stations the most capable naval units forward to respond effectively to opposing forces and promote a secure Indo-Pacific region. This position strategically balances operational readiness with lifecycle maintenance, modernization, and future force requirements.
In a recent Navy release, Capt. Christopher Carter, commander of Submarine Squadron 15, welcomed USS Tucson stating that Naval Base Guam remains a strategic location within the Western Pacific and the arrival of the USS Tucson brings forward a stronger force within the region.
“We are excited to welcome the crew to the team and look forward to the impact they will have while serving at the tip of the spear,” he said.
Cmdr. Vince Bove, commanding officer of the USS Tucson, shared his remarks following the submarine’s arrival at its new homeport.
“The entire crew is honored and excited to arrive in Guam,” he said. “Tucson brings an exceptional crew of Sailors who represent the very best of our submarine force. We are proud to join the forward-deployed team, strengthen warfighting readiness, and support U.S. strategic objectives across the region. We also look forward to becoming part of the Guam community that plays such a vital role in enabling our mission.”
The USS Tucson is one of five fast attack submarines, known as ‘apex predators of the sea’, stationed on Guam including the USS Annapolis, USS Asheville, USS Springfield, and USS Minnesota. mbj
Some opportunities arrive only once, asking little more than a willingness to serve. My brief appointment as President of Guam Community College was one of those opportunities. Although my tenure lasted only three weeks, I accepted the responsibility with the same commitment I have brought to every leadership role throughout my career. I intended to listen carefully, learn quickly, and contribute wherever I could.
The A.B. Won Pat International Airport board of directors ratified a grant to perform building upgrades, approved funding for a bond defeasance transaction, and awarded landscaping and management services during a board meeting on Aug. 6.