Midland native supports a 123-year tradition of service under the sea

Jun. 8—KINGS BAY, Ga. — Submariners make up only 10 percent of the U.S. Navy's personnel, but they play a critical role in carrying out one of the Defense Department's most important missions: strategic deterrence. Petty Officer 2nd Class Tristan Bollinger, a native of Midland is one of the sailors supporting a 123-year tradition of service under the sea to help ensure Americans' safety.

Bollinger joined the Navy six years ago and today serves as a logistics specialist with Trident Refit Facility Kings Bay.

"I joined the Navy to serve my country," said Bollinger.

Bollinger attended Midland High School and graduated in 2014.

Skills and values similar to those found in Midland are similar to those required to succeed in the military.

"In my hometown, I worked at Bruckner's Truck Sales where I learned to manage inventories," said Bollinger. "That is part of my job now, so it was a pretty smooth transition moving from the civilian sector to the military."

These lessons have helped Bollinger while serving in the Navy.

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.

"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."

Strategic deterrence is the nation's ultimate insurance program, according to Navy officials. As a member of the submarine force, Bollinger 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.

Serving in the Navy means Bollinger is part of a team that is taking on new importance in America's focus on strengthening alliances, modernizing capabilities, increasing capacities and maintaining military readiness in support of the National Defense Strategy.

"The Navy contributes to national defense in so many ways," said Bollinger. "The Navy is the reason our families can sleep sound at night without fear."

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.

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

"My proudest accomplishment is earning my first Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal," said Bollinger. "I am proud of that because my team and I fixed a failing supply system and made it efficient, so the unit could complete our missions and tasks."

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

"Serving in the Navy means upholding high standards in order to reach our goals and keep Americans safe," said Bollinger.

Bollinger is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.

"I would like to thank my parents, Jennifer and Bradley Bollinger, for their unconditional strength and being my pillar of support while I was away from home," added Bollinger.