The U.S. Navy commissioned the USS New Jersey, a fast-attack Virginia-class submarine, during a ceremony at Naval Weapons Station Earle in New Jersey. This submarine is the first in the Navy’s fleet to be fully integrated with male and female sailors. The commanding officer, Cmdr. Steve Halle, praised the crew’s professionalism and diversity during the ceremony, highlighting their ability to overcome obstacles and exceed expectations at every turn.
The USS New Jersey has a crew of nearly 135 Navy personnel and is the first in its class to be designed with full gender integration in mind. When the Navy lifted its ban on women serving on submarines in 2010, concerns about tight living quarters and lack of privacy prompted the retrofitting of subs to accommodate female sailors. However, the USS New Jersey was designed from the outset with gender-neutral accommodations, including increased privacy in washrooms and sleeping areas, as well as accessibility to top bunks and overhead valves designed with the physical attributes of women in mind.
The nuclear-powered submarine, nicknamed “Jersey Girl,” is equipped to dive to depths greater than 800 feet and operate at speeds exceeding 25 knots. Its interior spaces are decorated with posters and memorabilia representing the state of New Jersey, including a guitar signed by Jon Bon Jovi. This vessel is the third U.S. Navy ship named after the state, following the legendary battleship BB-62 that served in WWII, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.
Vice Admiral Robert Gaucher, commander of Submarine Forces Atlantic, noted that the USS New Jersey’s design considerations for gender-neutral accommodations and amenities reflect a commitment to diversity and inclusivity within the Navy. The integration of male and female sailors on this submarine is a testament to the Navy’s dedication to excellence and professionalism, as highlighted by Cmdr. Halle during the commissioning ceremony.
In light of a manpower shortage, the Navy has announced plans to sideline 17 vessels and redistribute operating crews. The commissioning of the USS New Jersey serves as a significant milestone in the Navy’s efforts to fully integrate male and female sailors across its fleet. By prioritizing diversity and inclusivity in submarine design and crew assignments, the Navy is advancing towards a more equitable and representative force that can tackle challenges and obstacles with the highest levels of professionalism.
The USS New Jersey’s commissioning ceremony represents a historic moment in the U.S. Navy’s history, marking the first submarine in its fleet to be fully integrated with male and female sailors. The vessel’s state-of-the-art design, gender-neutral accommodations, and commitment to diversity highlight the Navy’s dedication to excellence and professionalism. As the submarine embarks on its journey, it symbolizes the Navy’s progress towards a more inclusive and representative force that can navigate challenges and obstacles with unity and strength.
