Update from the CO

The DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA command was established in March of 2024 at General Dynamics Electric Boat in Groton, CT. 

The initial manning of the crew included the command and administrative support team, the logistics team, and the engineering team. There are approximately 80 personnel assigned and consist primarily of engineering personnel to support Electric Boat in system testing and operation. The Sailors are assigned to the boat for 3-5 years and the final manning of the crew will increase in the next few years to a total of 310 personnel. This will include both the BLUE and GOLD crew to ensure we are ready to operate DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA.

The members of the crew were hand-selected and also volunteered for this assignment, which results in all of them being very excited to be here. Since arriving in March, we are focused on training and qualifications of the crew to support each milestone. The best part about this assignment is the talent level of each member of the crew and their work ethic. They are focused on becoming subject matter experts as the first submariners to operate the new COLUMBIA class submarine.

During the first year, the crew is working on their qualifications on COLUMBIA class and gaining experience supporting other operational units. This mixture of experience and a strong understanding of how this boat is designed will ensure a successful test program. 

On the personnel side, it was a tremendous pleasure to promote to Chief Petty Officer, MMNC(SS) David Moore, originally from Rockport, Texas. MMNC was promoted on 27 September and will stay with the boat for his Chief Petty Officer tour. 

I am also proud to report EMN2(SS) Abbey Bonk, from Buffalo, Minnesota, was selected for the Seaman-to-Admiral program and will be separating from the boat in March to start attending college and earning her commission in the Navy.

CAPT Heath Johnmeyer
Commanding Officer
PCU District of Columbia (SSBN-826)