USS Washington SSN 787 Honored with Prestigious Presidential Unit Citation

In a distinguished ceremony held at Naval Station Norfolk on July 19, Capt. Timothy Poe presented the Presidential Unit Citation (PUC) to the crew of the USS Washington. This accolade was awarded on behalf of the President, underscoring the submarine’s exceptional service and strategic contributions.

“The award of the Presidential Unit Citation to the USS Washington is a profound honor, signifying the crew’s exceptional dedication and strategic impact,” said Vice Adm. Rob Gaucher, commander, Submarine Forces. “Their work in challenging, high risk environments completing vital national level missions demonstrates the key role our submarines play in ensuring maritime security and global stability.”

The Presidential Unit Citation is the highest unit award within the Department of Defense. Awarded for outstanding heroism and performance against enemy forces, it highlights the crew’s unparalleled commitment and achievements. The USS Washington, also referred to as the Blackfish, successfully executed three crucial missions, obtaining sensitive intelligence information while supporting national maritime strategies.

Commanding officer Cmdr. Keith Turnbull remarked on the crew’s dedication: “The men and women onboard BLACKFISH are justifiably proud of this award and of joining the distinguished list of previous recipients.” He acknowledged the essential support from staff ashore, including those in Norfolk, pivotal to the submarine’s missions.

The crew demonstrated exceptional discipline, planning, and material management, ensuring sustained operations without immediate external support. Senior Chief Machinist’s Mate Austin Gilbert emphasized the team’s resilience and readiness, which were vital during deployment.

Remarkably, the USS Washington achieved record-breaking operational days on station for the east coast, marking significant firsts, including the first chief Intelligence Specialist to earn ‘dolphins’ and an increased number of women, including a chief petty officer, onboard.

During its voyage, the Washington traversed over 37,000 nautical miles, fostering international ties through port visits in Scotland and Norway. Recognizing its strategic and operational excellence in the Arctic, the crew received the newly established Arctic Service Medal.

Within the ranks of the USS Washington, 44 enlisted Sailors and five officers achieved their submarine warfare qualifications, alongside the promotion of 10 officers, enhancing its operational capability. Fast-attack submarines like the USS Washington serve multifaceted roles, contributing to several core Navy maritime strategies, equipped for diverse warfare and intelligence tasks.

Virginia-class submarines, like the USS Washington, feature a design that supports a variety of military operations. At 377 feet long and capable of exceeding speeds of 25 knots, they are formidable in their performance.