By JOHN OSBORNE
Senior Chief Mass Communication Specialist, Navy Office of Community Outreach
NORFOLK, Va. – Petty Officer 3rd Class Claudia Casillas, a native of Indianapolis, serves aboard USS New Jersey, the U.S. Navy’s newest fast-attack submarine homeported in Norfolk, Va.
Casillas attended Warren Central High School and graduated in 2022.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Indianapolis.
“Growing up in Indianapolis, I quickly realized I wanted more diversity and I knew there was more to the world than I could see in front of me,” said Casillas. “It’s been exciting meeting people from different backgrounds who I would not have if I hadn’t joined the Navy.”
Casillas joined the Navy two years ago and today serves as a sonar technician (submarines).
“I joined the Navy to explore the world outside of my hometown,” said Casillas.
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.
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. New Jersey is the first Virginia-class submarine designed and built for a full gender-integrated crew.
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.
Casillas serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.
“We will earn and reinforce the trust and confidence of the American people every day,” said Adm. Lisa Franchetti, chief of naval operations. “Together we will deliver the Navy the nation needs.”
Casillas has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My proudest accomplishment is the growth I’ve experienced since joining the Navy,” said Casillas. “I’m proud of the adult I’ve become.”
Casillas can take pride in serving America through military service.
“For me, being in the Navy means representing to younger women that they can do anything,” added Casillas. “Being one of the few women on submarines, I get to prove to young women that they can be just as good at a job as men.”
Casillas is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank my mom, Sandra, who has given me the confidence, strength, and motivation that assures me I can do anything I put my mind to,” added Casillas. “I hope to earn my submarine qualification in the next two weeks.”