06/12/2023
Big Spring native continues a 123-year tradition of service under the sea
KINGS BAY, Ga. – Submariners make up only 10 percent of the U.S. Navy’s personnel, but they play a critical role in carrying out one of the Defense Department’s most important missions: strategic deterrence. Petty Officer 2nd Class Jacquelyn Torbik, a native of Big Spring, Texas, is one of the sailors continuing a 123-year tradition of service under the sea to help ensure Americans’ safety.
Torbik joined the Navy three and a half years ago after graduating from Forsan High School in 2019. Today, she serves as a machinist's mate (nuclear) aboard USS Florida.
Skills and values similar to those found in Big Spring are similar to those required to succeed in the military.
According to Torbik the submarine community is like a small town community, and that made the transition into the Navy much easier for her.
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 (SSN), ballistic-missile submarines (SSBN) and guided-missile submarines (SSGN)
Fast-attack submarines are designed to hunt down and destroy enemy submarines and surface ships; strike targets ashore with cruise missiles; carry and deliver Navy SEALs; conduct intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions; and engage in mine warfare. The Virginia-class SSN is the most advanced submarine in the world today. It combines stealth and payload capability to meet Combatant Commanders’ demands in this era of strategic competition.
The Navy's ballistic-missile submarines, often referred to as "boomers," serve as a strategic deterrent by providing an undetectable platform for submarine-launched ballistic missiles. SSBNs are designed specifically for stealth, extended patrols and the precise delivery of missiles. The Columbia-class SSBN will be the largest, most capable and most advanced submarine produced by the U.S. - replacing the current Ohio-class ballistic-missile submarines to ensure continuous sea-based strategic deterrence into the 2080s.
Guided-missile submarines provide the Navy with unprecedented strike and special operation mission capabilities from a stealthy, clandestine platform. Each SSGN is capable of carrying 154 Tomahawk cruise missiles, plus a complement of heavyweight torpedoes to be fired through four torpedo tubes.
Our mission remains timeless - to provide our fellow citizens with nothing less than the very best Navy: fully combat ready at all times, focused on warfighting excellence, and committed to superior leadership at every single level," said Adm. Mike Gilday, Chief of Naval Operations. "This is our calling. And I cannot imagine a calling more worthy."
Strategic deterrence is the Nation’s ultimate insurance program, according to Navy officials. As a member of the submarine force, Torbik is part of a rich history of the U.S. Navy’s most versatile weapons platform, capable of taking the fight to the enemy in the defense of America and its allies.
Serving in the Navy means Torbik is part of a team that is taking on new importance in America’s focus on strengthening alliances, modernizing capabilities, increasing capacities and maintaining military readiness in support of the National Defense Strategy.
“The Navy does a lot of behind the scenes that most Americans don’t even know about,” said Torbik. “We are out there 24/7 deterring threats and keeping our country safe.”
With 90 percent 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 United States is directly linked to trained sailors and a strong Navy.
Torbik and the sailors they serve with have many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during their military service.
“My proudest Navy accomplishment is earning my submarine warfare device or 'dolphins,’” said Torbik. “I am proud of that because it solidifies you into being a part of this community. Having that means everyone on the boat can trust you.”
As Torbik and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.
“Serving in the Navy means doing something bigger than myself while also doing something for myself,” said Torbik. “Water and the ocean have always been one of my biggest fears but now, I am surrounded by it. I joined the submarine force partially to face my fear and to also prove that women can serve on submarines.”
Torbik is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank my parents, Robyn and Keith, who have been very supportive of my whole career, even though it’s not what they wanted to do with their life,” added Torbik.
(Story and photo contributed by Megan Brown, Navy Office of Community Outreach)
