Washington, DC (March 24, 2014) – Earlier today, U.S. Congressman Steve Pearce returned from a weekend embark with the US Navy. This operation, which included the Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Jonathan Greenert, Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell, and the Under Secretary of Defense Frank Kendall, allowed Congressman Pearce to witness the ongoing Arctic training of our submarine fleet onboard the USS New Mexico.
“This past weekend, I had the privilege of participating in the Navy’s ICEX operations,” said Pearce. “During this two day trip to the Arctic, I took part in a number of briefings, drills, and activities around and aboard the USS New Mexico – showcasing the mission and capabilities of the ship and the US Naval fleet. In addition to the operations being conducted, I was able to interact on a one on one basis with the sailors aboard the USS New Mexico.
“In addition to being able to see the USS New Mexico in action, I was able to assist in a re-enlistment ceremony of sailors aboard the ship. I am extremely thankful to our sailors and soldiers who selflessly put the safety of the nation above their own. As a veteran, I believe it is vital that representatives from both Congress and the Executive branch visit and understand the work our men and women do every day in service of our nation.”
The 2014 Submarine Arctic Warfare Exercise, known as ICEX, is an opportunity for the Navy to perform training in and around the Arctic Ocean. The USS New Mexico features a New Mexico theme throughout and includes the La Posta Mess. Commissioned in March of 2010, the USS New Mexico is a 774 (Virginia) class nuclear submarine and is one of the nation’s newest submarines.
