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Chandler native serves as member of Navy’s submarine force

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MILLINGTON, Tenn. — Petty Officer 2nd Class Samuel Mazzola, a native of Chandler and a 2014 Hamilton High School graduate, is one of the sailors aboard the USS Annapolis, operating out of San Diego.

Mazzola, who also graduated from Arizona State University in 2018, joined the Navy four years ago.

“I joined the Navy to propel my professional career and develop a strong technical understanding of nuclear propulsion," said Mazzola.

Today, Mazzola serves as n machinist mate-nuclear.

“There is endless opportunity to learn," said Mazzola. “Working in the Engineering Department may be extremely challenging, however if you apply yourself with a strong attitude and willingness to work it will be worth it.”

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 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).

The USS Annapolis is the 10th Los Angeles-class fast-attack nuclear submarine, completed in the early 1990s.

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 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.

Strategic deterrence is the Nation’s ultimate insurance program, according to Navy officials. As a member of the submarine force, Mazzola 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.

With 90% 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.

As a member of the Navy, Mazzola is part of an organization focused on  sustaining combat-ready forces in support of the national defense strategy.

“The Navy's submarine force has critical contributions to national defense," said Mazzola. “We are likely to be one of the first and last to the scene.”

Mazzola has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.

"So far, my proudest accomplishment is having the opportunity to train the future generation," said Mazzola.

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

“I have been blessed to have a strong technical understanding of nuclear propulsion and I owe it to the future sailors to teach them everything I know," said Mazzola.