Petty Officer 2nd Class Griffin Riedel, a 2009 CV High School graduate, is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard one of the Navy’s newest attack submarines, the USS Missouri. Riedel is a sonar technician aboard the Groton-based boat, one of only 12 Virginia-class attack submarines in the Navy’s fleet. The Virginia class is comprised of the Navy’s newest and most advanced subs.

A Navy sonar technician listens, detects and tracks objects in the water, making them the eyes and ears of the boat.

“What I like the most about my job is that I hear something new everyday and it is unique and exciting,” said Riedel.

With a crew of 130, this submarine is 377 feet long and weighs approximately 7,800 tons. A nuclear-powered propulsion system helps push the submarine through the water at more than 25 mph.

“The submarine community has one of the highest operational tempos in the Navy, our missions are extremely technical and demanding,” said Capt. Ollie Lewis, commodore, Submarine Squadron 12. “We can’t maintain the success that we have experienced without having the most exceptional people serving with us.”

“I like working for this command because the crew is like a fraternity and we take care of each other,” said Riedel.

Challenging submarine living conditions build strong fellowship among the elite crew, Navy officials explained. The crews are highly motivated, and quickly adapt to changing conditions. It is a busy life of specialized work, watches, and drills.

“Serving in the Navy means a lot to me,” added Riedel. “There is always something new to see and to learn along with the opportunity for adventure and new challenges.”