| February 26, 2002
ETSN(SS) Dean Adams Congratulations Shipmate on your Qualification in Submarines. I know that you have worked very hard to accomplish this goal. I am very proud of you as you have reached this milestone and now move on to your next goal and the ones beyond that. I have asked your COB, and CO to present you with my Silver Dolphins. They are the set that was issued to me when I qualified onboard USS ARCHERFISH (SSN 678), on 26 July 1976. They were presented to me by Captain Sibley L. Ward III, and are engraved on the back. Following ARCHERFISH, I wore these Dolphins at every Duty Station: Naval Submarine School, USS ARCHERFISH (SSN 678) again, USS BILLFISH (SSN 676), Bureau of Naval Personnel, USS DALLAS (SSN 700), and at Naval Submarine Base New London. Wear them with the same pride that I did my friend, and the best of wishes wherever you go. Now that you are Qualified in Submarines you are truly a Submariner. Being a Submariner you have followed in the steps of thousands of men who have served the U.S. Navy and the United States with Honor, and have the same pride that I do. There are men... there are Sailors... and then there are Submariner Sailors. Submariners are the best of the best. I have also included your membership card for U.S. SUBMARINE VETERANS, Groton Base. Complete the membership application and return it back to me. I've got your first year of dues covered. So now that you are a Submarine Veteran, in addition to the Navy's core values of HONOR, COURAGE and COMMITMENT, you must also adhere to the U.S. SUBMARINE VETERANS core values of PRIDE, HERITAGE, and CAMARADERIE. You should also never forget those who gave their lives while serving in Submarines. Remember always our creed below. Fair Winds and Following Seas Your Shipmate Always U.S. SUBMARINE VETERANS CREED "To perpetuate the memory of our shipmates who gave their lives in the pursuit of their duties while serving their country. That their dedication, deeds and supreme sacrifice be a constant source of motivation towards greater accomplishments. Pledge loyalty and patriotism to the United States Government" |