Staff Reports | Community Updates
Petty Officer 2nd Class Eric Jenkins, a native of Chandler, Arizona, serves in the U.S. Navy aboard USS Greeneville, a fast-attack submarine homeported at Naval Base Point Loma.
As a submariner, Mr. Jenkins is part of a group of Navy personnel continuing a 125-year tradition of service under the sea in support of national defense, according to a press release.
Mr. Jenkins graduated from Desert Hills High School in 2020.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Chandler.
“Growing up, I learned to work hard, but always be willing to compromise when necessary,” Mr. Jenkins said. “Nothing has to be perfect when it comes to finishing the job. Also, it’s important to always drink water.”
Mr. Jenkins joined the Navy four years ago and serves as a fire control technician.
“I joined the Navy to follow in my father’s footsteps,” Mr. Jenkins said. “My father served on a nuclear submarine, and I wanted to be just like him.”
The Navy’s submarine force operates a fleet of vessels capable of conducting defensive and offensive operations worldwide. There are three types of submarines: fast-attack submarines, ballistic-missile submarines and guided-missile submarines.
Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarines, like USS Greeneville, have been in service for decades, with approximately 23 currently operating. These submarines are designed to conduct missions such as tracking and engaging enemy vessels, launching cruise missiles, supporting special operations forces, gathering intelligence and conducting mine warfare.
USS Greeneville is equipped with 12 vertical launch system tubes for Tomahawk cruise missiles and measures about 360 feet in length and 33 feet at its widest point. The submarine is crewed by more than 140 enlisted sailors and officers.
Navy officials describe strategic deterrence as a key component of national defense. As part of the submarine force, Mr. Jenkins serves aboard a vessel capable of supporting missions in defense of the United States and its allies.
Mr. Jenkins cited earning his Submarine Warfare Pin as a career milestone.
“My proudest accomplishment has been earning my Submarine Warfare Pin,” he said. “I had my warfare pin put on by my first class petty officer mentor back in Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. He was the one who taught me everything,” Mr. Jenkins said.
This year, the Navy is commemorating its role in national defense as the United States marks 250 years of independence. Navy officials note the service has operated globally for more than two centuries supporting security and economic stability.
“Serving in the Navy gives me a sense of safety as well as stability and pride,” said Mr. Jenkins. “I feel like I am doing something important and that I have a purpose.”
Mr. Jenkins also expressed appreciation for his family’s support.
“I would like to thank both my parents, who are back home,” Mr. Jenkins said. “They have loved and supported me in everything I’ve done and have made me who I am today.”
Editor’s note: This release was originally written by Mass Communication Specialist Petty Officer 2nd Class Joshua Rollo, Navy Office of Community Outreach
