By Japan Today
The U.S.S. Pasadena. (Photo: U.S. Navy)
“I am very proud of each of them and look forward to seeing them continue to excel throughout this deployment,” said Cmdr. Mark E. Cooper, commanding officer of Pasadena. “Pasadena’s presence in the Western Pacific is important and our interactions with our allies and other friendly nations in the region will serve to demonstrate the United States’ commitment to the region and develop closer ties.”
“The officers and crew of Pasadena are excited to be in Japan and on deployment in the Western Pacific,” Lt. j.g. Drew Hanessian, USS Pasadena Public Affairs saiud in a statement. “This represents a culmination of several years of hard work on the part of each crew member.”
Measuring more than 360 feet long and displacing more than 6,900 tons when submerged, Pasadena is one of the most mission capable and technologically advanced submarines in the world. This submarine supports a wide range of missions, including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface ship warfare, strike, and naval special warfare, which encompasses both special operations forces and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance operations.
“The Pasadena Sailors look forward to enjoying the change of seasons Japan has to offer,” said Command Master Chief Mark A. Evans, Pasadena’s chief of the boat. “The officers and crew will enjoy some well-deserved rest prior to beginning the second leg of a demanding deployment.”
As Pasadena makes its first deployment following an extended overhaul in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, this makes the first deployment experience for the majority of its crew, as well as their first visit to Japan.
“I’m really excited to visit Japan for the first time,” said Logistics Specialist 3rd Class Ernesto Escamilla. “This being my first deployment, I’m particularly looking forward to having the opportunity to visit historic sites in the area and sample the local cuisine.”
Pasadena’s crew of 150 will conduct a multitude of missions and showcase the latest capabilities of the submarine fleet. Pasadena’s participation in exercises with various foreign navies from around the Pacific Rim will also aid in solidifying the U.S. role in international maritime operations.
Commissioned in July, 1991, and currently homeported in San Diego, Pasadena is the U.S. Navy’s second “improved” 688-class nuclear-powered submarine. Throughout its proud and illustrious 24-year history, Pasadena has deployed to and conducted operations in virtually every part of the world.
Today, Pasadena continues to answer the call of duty in conducting yet another Western Pacific deployment, truly living up to its motto of “Anytime, Anywhere.”
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