A BIg Shout out to another one of our military heores who takes his Country with him everywhere he goes! Lt j.g. Dalton Rosario, a native of Germantown, Maryland, is one of the sailors continuing a 123-year tradition of service under the sea aboard USS Springfield, operating out of Naval Base Guam. Dalton is a 2009 graduate of Northwest High School and 2014 graduate of Towson University. Later, he enlisted in the Navy two years ago.

Asked about his position, “I joined the Navy to do God's work," Rosario said. Skills and values learned in the Navy are similar to those found in Germantown. “Growing up I learned above all else, to have grit," said Rosario. Today, Rosario serves as an supply officer. “There is no greater privilege than to serve my country in Commander Domina's crew amongst titans as a true Springfield Buccaneer,” said Rosario. Known as America’s “Apex Predators!,” the Navy’s submarine force operates a large fleet of technically-advanced vessels. These submarines are capable of conducting rapid defensive and offensive operations around the world supporting U.S. national security. There are three basic types of submarines: fast-attack submarines (SSN), ballistic-missile submarines (SSBN) and guided-missile submarines (SSGN).

Fast-attack submarines are designed to hunt down and destroy enemy submarines and surface ships; strike targets ashore with cruise missiles; carry and deliver Navy SEALs; conduct intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions; and engage in mine warfare. The Virginia-class SSN is the most advanced submarine in the world today. It combines stealth and payload capability to meet Combatant Commanders’ demands in this era of strategic competition.

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. SSBNs are designed specifically for stealth, extended patrols and the precise delivery of missiles. The Columbia-class SSBN will be the largest, most capable and most advanced submarine produced by the U.S. - replacing the current Ohio-class ballistic-missile submarines to ensure continuous sea-based strategic deterrence into the 2080s.

Guided-missile submarines provide the Navy with unprecedented strike and special operation mission capabilities from a stealthy, clandestine platform. Each SSGN is capable of carrying 154 Tomahawk cruise missiles, plus a complement of heavyweight torpedoes to be fired through four torpedo tubes.

Strategic deterrence is the Nation’s ultimate insurance program, according to Navy officials. As a member of the submarine force, Rosario is part of a rich history of the U.S. Navy’s most versatile weapons platform, capable of taking the fight to the enemy in the defense of America and its allies. With 90 percent of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to trained sailors and a strong Navy.

"Our mission remains timeless - to provide our fellow citizens with nothing less than the very best Navy: fully combat ready at all times, focused on warfighting excellence, and committed to superior leadership at every single level," said Adm. Mike Gilday, Chief of Naval Operations. "This is our calling. And I cannot imagine a calling more worthy."

As a member of the Navy, Rosario is part of a world-class organization focused on maintaining maritime dominance, strengthening partnerships, increasing competitive warfighting capabilities and sustaining combat-ready forces in support of the National Defense Strategy. Rosario has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service. “I’m most proud of my sailors," said Rosario. “These are the best professionals I have had the pleasure of working with.” As Rosario and other sailors continue to perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy. "Serving in the Navy to me is going to the end of the world and back to share my successes with my loved ones," added Rosario.

THANK YOU, Lt j.g. Dalton Rosario for your service and for sharing this information with us! - MIchael J

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