CNO Awards Historic First Arctic Service Medals to Distinguished Submariners

NEW LONDON, Conn. — Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti awarded the newly established Arctic Service Medal to submariners and civilians on Sept. 17. This award recognizes their exceptional dedication during critical Arctic operations.

The Arctic Service Medal honors the sailors’ significant contributions to national security in the Arctic. It was presented to the crew of the USS Indiana (SSN-789) and other submariners based at Naval Submarine Base New London. Civilians from Undersea Warfare Development Center and Portsmouth Naval Shipyard also received the medal.

“Thank you for answering our nation’s call and being part of America’s Warfighting Navy,” said Franchetti. “Your work during ICE CAMP showcased our Navy’s ability to operate in any maritime environment.”

Adm. Franchetti visited the USS Indiana during ICE CAMP 2024 in the spring. She observed the crew’s successful navigation through ice-covered waters and their participation in joint exercises. The crew also gathered crucial data to support future Arctic operations.

Franchetti highlighted the Arctic’s strategic importance to U.S. national security. She stressed the Navy’s role in ensuring a free and open Arctic region, preventing disruptions to emerging sea lines of communication.

“The Department of Defense’s Arctic Strategy mandates our ability to operate in the Arctic to protect our homeland and uphold defense treaties,” Franchetti stated. “Your actions show the Navy’s commitment to enhancing Arctic capabilities by investing in technology and intelligence sharing.”

The Arctic Service Medal is awarded to units that conduct transits through ice-covered straits or the North Pole. It also honors submarines that surface through ice or conduct extended under-ice operations, as well as personnel assigned to ice camps.

Cmdr. Kyle McVay, Commanding Officer of the USS Indiana, expressed pride in his crew, saying, “Receiving this medal is a testament to our sailors’ hard work and dedication.”

This new medal highlights the Arctic’s importance in the National Defense Strategy and the U.S. Navy’s efforts to ensure security and freedom of navigation in the region.