Acworth native supports Navy’s most advanced submarines

(KINGS BAY, Ga)- A 2013 North Paulding High School graduate and Acworth, Georgia native is serving aboard the homeport for U.S. Atlantic Fleet’s ballistic missile nuclear submarines. Petty Officer 2nd Class Zack Toomer, a Navy diver, is responsible for the underwater maintenance on submarines. “The best thing about this job is the people,” said Toomer. “I feel like I come to work with 24 of my best friends.” The mission at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay is to provide support to the fleet, fighter and family, according to Navy officials. It is the state-of-the-art home to the Atlantic Fleet's Trident submarines and serves as an integral part of the nation's strategic deterrence program.
The Navy’s ballistic missile submarines, often referred to as “boomers,” serve as undetectable launch platforms for ballistic missiles. They are designed specifically for stealth, extended patrols and the precise delivery of missiles, and they are the only survivable leg of the nation’s strategic nuclear forces, which also include land-based missiles and aircraft. The Ohio-class design allows the submarines to operate for 15 or more years between major overhauls.
Toomer and other sailors know they are part of a legacy supporting the Navy’s most advanced submarines. "We demand the highest standards from our sailors - both professionally and personally," said Rear Adm. Randy Crites, commander, Submarine Group 10 in Kings Bay. “Their chain of command, family and our great nation take immense pride in their devotion and service. These sailors are absolutely crucial to ensuring our ships and submarines are operating at their best - always mission ready, providing our nation with the greatest Navy the world has ever known. I'm so very proud these sailors are on our team." “I take a lot of pride in my job,” said Toomer. “If we weren't here, boats would have to go to dry dock for repairs, and that would prevent them from being out there doing their job.” Serving in the Navy, Toomer is learning about leadership and managing multiple responsibilities.
“Serving in the Navy has made me a better leader,” said Toomer. “I take pride in what I do, how I act and how I carry myself.”

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