In the heart of the U.S. Navy's elite submarine force, Houston's own Petty Officer 3rd Class Clarissa Hernandez stands out. A proud graduate of Cypress Ridge High School, Hernandez has brought her Texas roots to Naval Base Kitsap, the homeport of the West Coast's ballistic-missile and guided-missile submarines.

Since joining the Navy three years ago, Hernandez has thrived in her role as a sonar technician at Trident Training Facility (TTF) Bangor. Reflecting on her journey, Hernandez credits her high school experiences in basketball and color guard for instilling the teamwork and interpersonal skills crucial for success in the Navy. "In the Navy, you encounter a lot of different personalities, so it's important to know how to be a team player and how to interact with different personalities," Hernandez shared.

Driven by a desire to travel and inspired by her grandfather's military service, Hernandez's dedication to the Navy's mission is unwavering. Her role is vital within the submarine force, renowned as America’s “Apex Predators.” These vessels, some of the most technologically advanced in the world, conduct rapid defensive and offensive operations to uphold U.S. national security.

The Navy's submarine fleet includes fast-attack submarines (SSN), ballistic-missile submarines (SSBN), and guided-missile submarines (SSGN). Each type plays a critical role in maintaining maritime security:

- Fast-attack submarines hunt enemy submarines and ships, strike land targets, deliver Navy SEALs, gather intelligence, and engage in mine warfare.

- Ballistic-missile submarines serve as strategic deterrents with their undetectable platforms for launching missiles, ensuring continuous sea-based strategic deterrence into the 2080s.

- Guided-missile submarines offer stealthy strike and special operation capabilities, with each capable of carrying 154 Tomahawk cruise missiles.

Rear Adm. Richard Seif, Commander of the Submarine Force U.S. Pacific Fleet, emphasizes the significance of these vessels and their crews: "The men and women of the Pacific Submarine Force are among our best and brightest Americans. Our ability to remain on-scene, unseen, is only possible due to their hard work and critical thinking."

For Hernandez, being part of this storied force is a point of immense pride. "My proudest accomplishment is being a female in the submarine fleet because it paves the way for future female submariners," she said. Her journey not only reflects personal achievement but also highlights the broader strides women are making within the military.

Admiral Lisa Franchetti, Chief of Naval Operations, underscores the Navy's commitment to excellence: “We will earn and reinforce the trust and confidence of the American people every day. Together we will deliver the Navy the nation needs.” 

Serving in the Navy has been both challenging and rewarding for Hernandez. "Serving has been one of the toughest things I've done but also the most rewarding because I get to show my kids and myself that we can accomplish anything we set our minds to—even a childhood dream."

Hernandez's success is also a testament to the support of her family. "I want to thank my husband, David Miguel, for being supportive and for holding the household down when I am gone," she said. "I also want to thank my mom, Anna Pedraza, and my two brothers, Jessie and Gabriel Hernandez, for pushing me to be the person I am today."

As Petty Officer Hernandez continues her service, she exemplifies the strength, dedication, and resilience that define both her hometown of Houston and the U.S. Navy. Her story is an inspiring reminder of the profound impact of service members on national security and the vibrant communities they hail from.

For more info, visit NavyOutreach.blogspot.com