Bristol native continues a 124-year tradition

U.S. NAVAL BASE GUAM — More than half of the U.S. Navy's submarine force is based in the Indo-Pacific region due to the area’s strategic importance. At any given time, the undersea forces are conducting worldwide operations across the full spectrum of undersea warfare missions.

Chief Petty Officer Arthur Headley, a native of Bristol, New Hampshire, is one of the sailors continuing the 124-year tradition of service under the sea to help ensure Americans’ safety.

Headley graduated from Newfound Regional High School in 2000. The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Bristol.

“I was in the Boy Scouts growing up and was able to make it to the rank of Eagle Scout,” said Headley. “The Boy Scouts helped teach me valuable skills, like being able to work with and learn from people. Being able to work with people from different walks of life as well as work with people with structure and rules and regulations has helped me succeed in my career here in the Navy.”

Headley joined the Navy 20 years ago. Today, Headley serves as an electrician’s mate, nuclear.

“I joined the Navy to be able to work in the nuclear field and be able to have a career serving on submarines traveling around the world,” said Headley.

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.

There are three basic types of submarines: fast-attack submarines, ballistic-missile submarines and guided-missile submarines. Headley serves with Commander, Submarine Squadron 15.

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 U.S is directly linked to recruiting and retaining talented people from across the rich fabric of America.

Headley 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 Lisa Franchetti, chief of naval operations. “Together we will deliver the Navy the nation needs.”

Headley has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.

“I am most proud of the fact that I have had the privilege of teaching submariners and nuclear submariners,” said Headley. “Knowing that my career is making a difference in the lives of other sailors fills me with pride. I will be able to leave this Navy one day with confidence knowing I have taught my sailors what they need to do to fill out the mission long after I am gone.”

Headley can take pride in serving America through military service.

“Serving in the Navy means sacrifice,” said Headley. “We in the Navy sacrifice our time and some of our freedoms to make it possible for others around the world to live the lives they want to live.”

Headley had words of encouragement for anyone considering a career path in the Navy.

“The Navy provides people back at home and anyone waiting for more with skills, tools and opportunities that can't be matched,” said Headley.