Jordan Patterson, a graduate of West Hartford’s Conard High School, is now serving as a missile technician in the U.S. Navy.

Submitted by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tracey Bannister, Navy Office of Community Outreach

A West Hartford, CT, native is stationed at Naval Base Kitsap (NBK), homeport to west coast ballistic-missile and guided-missile submarines.

Petty Officer 3rd Class Jordan Patterson serves as a missile technician and joined the Navy to seek out better opportunities.

“I didn’t have a sense of direction after high school and I knew I wanted to go to college, but I didn’t know what I wanted to major in,” said Patterson. “Plus, I didn’t have the money for college so I decided to join the Navy. My uncle suggested the Navy since his father previously served as a gunner’s mate.”

Patterson attended Conard High School and graduated in 2014. Today, Patterson uses skills and values similar to those found in West Hartford.

“I had a better horizon or worldview than most people because in my high school, there were people of many different classes and cultures,” said Patterson. “Its taught me humility.”

These lessons have helped Patterson while serving aboard Submarine Readiness Squadron 31.

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, in furtherance of 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, Patterson is part of a rich 122-year 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.

Serving in the Navy means Patterson is part of a team that is taking on new importance in America’s focus on rebuilding military readiness, strengthening alliances and reforming business practices in support of the National Defense Strategy.

“It could be a threat to the world if you can’t traverse the seas,” said Patterson. “We take a defensive role and we’re there to protect our country’s perimeter.”

With more than 90 percent of all trade traveling by sea, and 95 percent of the world’s international phone and internet traffic carried through underwater fiber optic, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity and security of the United States is directly linked to a strong and ready Navy.

A major component of that maritime security is homeported at Naval Submarine Base Bangor.

Strategic deterrence is the nation’s ultimate insurance program, and for decades Naval Submarine Base Bangor has been home to Ohio Class ballistic-missile submarines. Beginning in 2028, the new Columbia Class ballistic-missile submarines will arrive and provide continuous sea-based strategic deterrence into the 2080s.

Patterson and the sailors they serve with have many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during their military service.

“Indoctrinating myself in the submarine force by earning my submarine warfare device is the accomplishment I’m most proud of,” said Patterson. “I’m also proud of bringing positivity to the boat.”

As Patterson and other sailors continue to train and perform the missions they are tasked with, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.

“Serving in the Navy is a harsh test,” added Patterson. “It’s a test of your will, a test of your sanity and along the way, you figure out how to pass the test.”

Like what you see here? Click here to subscribe to We-Ha’s newsletter so you’ll always be in the know about what’s happening in West Hartford! Click the blue button below to become a supporter of We-Ha.com and our efforts to continue producing quality journalism.