The Los Angeles-class Flight III 688i (Improved) attack submarine USS Toledo (SSN 769) made a significant entrance into its new homeport at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, today. This marks a new chapter for the storied vessel, which recently completed an extensive engineered overhaul and modernization, ensuring its continued operational relevance in the U.S. Navy’s submarine fleet.
The 688i brings quieter operation, advanced sonar, and the ability to operate under ice, making it one of the most versatile submarines in the U.S. Navy. These upgrades ensure the Toledo can conduct a wide range of missions, from intelligence gathering and special operations to direct engagement and support of carrier strike groups.
Upon her arrival, the USS Toledo was greeted by the Bowfin Pearl Harbor Base Submarine Veterans (Subvets), a group with deep ties to the legacy of undersea warfare. The Bowfin subvets, named after the historic WWII submarine USS Bowfin (“Pearl Harbor Avenger”), are known for their dedication to preserving submarine history and supporting active-duty submarine crews in Pearl Harbor.
With her arrival at Pearl Harbor, the USS Toledo embarks on a new era of service, ready to meet the demands of the Pacific theater. She strengthens the U.S. Navy’s undersea capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region. As strategic challenges evolve, the presence of a modernized, battle-ready 688i submarine enhances deterrence and supports the Navy’s commitment to regional security.
On Friday, July 4, 2025, members of the Bowfin Pearl Harbor Base proudly joined the 76th Annual Kailua Independence Day Parade, upholding a beloved tradition that continues to unite generations along Kainalu Drive. For over seven decades, the Kailua Independence Day Parade has been a vibrant celebration of unity, patriotism, and community spirit. Since 1970, Bowfin Pearl Harbor Base submarine veterans have been honored participants, symbolizing dedication, service, and the enduring relationship between the military and the local community.
This year’s theme, “Waves of Aloha,” beautifully embodies the ever-present spirit of kindness, unity, and welcome that defines Kailua. Just as ocean waves continuously shape the shoreline, the aloha spirit shapes the community—embracing everyone with warmth, respect, and compassion.
“Waves of Aloha” Highlights:
Enduring Bonds – Celebrating the connections between generations, neighbors, and friends, strengthened through shared traditions and support.
Community Spirit – Uplifting Kailua through acts of generosity, inclusion, and collective energy.
Heritage and Progress – Honoring the past while looking forward, much like the waves that are both timeless and ever-changing.
Military and Civilian Unity – Recognizing the contributions of Bowfin Pearl Harbor Base submarine veterans and all who serve, fostering gratitude and pride.
The Bowfin Pearl Harbor Base submarine veterans are honored to continue their participation in this cherished parade. As we ride the “Waves of Aloha” together, we celebrate not only our nation’s independence but also the enduring spirit of Kailua—a community where aloha flows as freely as the ocean breeze.
The Periscope is a monthly publication of the Los Angeles-Pasadena Base of USSVI.
What’s Inside General Meeting Minutes Tolling the Boats New Chinese Sub USS Iowa Commissioned Fishermen Cath Drones “For Those Who Dived” Dex Armstrong Chapter News Calendar Events E-Board Meeting Minutes New Gen.Dyn./EB Contract Breaking News: Brick Project Red October in Seal Beach
Starting last month as the new executive director of the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum, Andrew “Homer” Ring acknowledges the legacy of the USS Bowfin submarine and the brave men and women that she honors. Read full story HERE.
Flag Day traces its roots to June 14, 1777, when the Continental Congress adopted the resolution that “the flag of the thirteen United States be thirteen stripes, alternate red and white; that the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field, representing a new constellation”. However, the formal observance of Flag Day as a national holiday took more than a century to develop.
The modern Flag Day celebration began with the dedicated efforts of Bernard J. Cigrand, a 19-year-old schoolteacher in Waubeka, Wisconsin. On June 14, 1885, Cigrand placed a small American flag in an inkwell on his desk and asked his students to write essays about what the flag meant to them, referring to that day as the flag’s birthday. This simple classroom exercise would spark Cigrand’s lifelong campaign to establish a national Flag Day observance.
Cigrand’s advocacy efforts gained momentum throughout the late 1800s and early 1900s. He moved to Chicago to attend dental school and in 1886 published an article titled “The Fourteenth of June” in the Chicago Argus newspaper, publicly proposing an annual observance of the flag’s birth. His persistence paid off when President Woodrow Wilson issued a proclamation on May 30, 1916, establishing June 14 as Flag Day.
Wilson’s proclamation was particularly significant, as it called for Flag Day to be observed “with special patriotic exercises, at which means shall be taken to give significant expression to our thoughtful love of America, our comprehension of the great mission of liberty and justice to which we have devoted ourselves as a people”. The proclamation emphasized Flag Day as “a day of renewal and reminder” for American ideals and principles.
The U.S. Submarine Force Flag Day Connection
USS Nautilus (SSN 571) Christening January 1954
The most significant connection between Flag Day and the submarine force occurred on June 14, 1952, when President Harry S. Truman laid the keel of the USS Nautilus (SSN-571), the world’s first nuclear-powered submarine. This ceremony at the Electric Boat shipyard in Groton, Connecticut, was deliberately scheduled for Flag Day, marking what Truman called “one of the most significant developments of our time”.
In his Flag Day address at the keel-laying ceremony, Truman reflected on the dual significance of the occasion. He noted that June 14, 1777, marked the 175th anniversary of the flag’s adoption, while also celebrating the dawn of the nuclear age in naval warfare. Truman emphasized that the ceremony represented “not because we are starting a new ship for war, but because we are making a great advance in use of atomic energy for peace”.
The symbolism was profound: on the same date that commemorated America’s national banner, the nation was launching into a new era of maritime power that would fundamentally alter the strategic balance of the Cold War. Truman declared, “Today, we stand on the threshold of a new age of power”.
The Nautilus went on to make history, becoming the first vessel to reach the geographic North Pole on August 3, 1958, and establishing numerous speed and distance records during its 25-year career. The submarine’s achievements validated the revolutionary technology that was born on Flag Day 1952.
In Summary
Submarine operations, by their very nature, often occur far from public view, making the symbolic connection to the flag even more important. The submarine force’s motto of operating “Unseen and On Scene”emphasizes how submarines serve as silent guardians of American interests while carrying the flag into the world’s most remote and dangerous waters.
The intertwined history of Flag Day and the U.S. Submarine Force represents more than mere coincidence, it reflects the deep connection between American naval tradition and national identity. From the Revolutionary War submarine Turtle to the nuclear-powered vessels of today, submarines have served as extensions of American sovereignty and power projection capabilities.
The Flag Day keel-laying of the USS Nautilus in 1952 created a lasting bond between the national holiday and the submarine force, symbolizing how American technological innovation and naval tradition combine to protect and advance national interests. This connection continues to resonate in contemporary submarine force traditions, ceremonies, and observances that honor both the flag and those who have served beneath it in the silent service.
As the submarine force continues to evolve and modernize, the Flag Day connection serves as a reminder of the enduring values and principles that guide American naval service. The flag that was adopted on June 14, 1777, continues to fly over submarines that patrol the world’s oceans, carrying forward the legacy of those who came before and maintaining the proud traditions of the silent service.
To perpetuate the memory of our shipmates who gave their lives while voluntarily serving in submarine warfare in the pursuit of their duties while serving their country. That their dedication, deeds and supreme sacrifice be a constant source of motivation toward greater accomplishments. To further promote and keep alive the spirit and unity that existed among submarine crewmen during World War II. To promote sociability general welfare and good fellowship among our members. To pledge loyalty and patriotism to the United States of America and it’s constitution.
1. Bowfin Pearl Harbor Base
Bowfin Meeting – We conducted our June meeting at Clean Sweep Bar, Lockwood Hall. The following members attended – Base Commander Paul Jurcsak, Vice Commander Tim Sparks, Secretary Brett Kulbis, Treasurer Carl Tatro, COB Gary Johnson, and members Dave Atkins, George Barlett, Jim Bazemore, David Bilek, Allen Clemons, Dan Del Monte, Karl Dye, Nelson Greer, Ben McGowan, Ace Parker, Crichton Roberts, Thom Sousa, Pat Suenaga, Wade Thode, Ken Voorhees, and Joe Winzenried.
Mahalo to Carlton Tatro for your dedication to the base as our Treasurer for the last 6-years. Good luck on your move to the mainland this month and your future endeavors.
Congratulations to Pat Suenaga for being appointed as the Bowfin Treasurer to complete the term of Carlton Tatro.
Welcomed Guests – Dolores Brown, Mi-ye Bilek, Sandra Parker, Edie Clemons, Judy McGowan, Thomas Schmidt, Wesley and William Thode, and Eric Moore.
Binnacle List – Please keep the all our members and their families in your good thoughts and prayers, especially Chris Cunha, Paul Ferguson, John Hatch, and Charley Womack.
Hauʻoli Lā Hānau! Bowfin Birthdays for the month ofJune.
On Memorial Day Monday May 26, 2025 at 1100 hours, dozens of Bowfin Pearl Harbor Base Submarine Veterans, submarine veteran wives and widows, active and retired military members, and friends of the Submarine Force participated in the annual Memorial Day commemoration at USS Parche and Submarine Memorial Park on Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam (formerly known as Submarine Base Pearl Harbor.)
The U.S. Submarine Veterans of World War II assigned a submarine lost during the war to each state of our great nation as their state submarine. The USS Growler (SS-215) was designated as the State Submarine of Hawaii. After Growler’s fourth war patrol during which Medal of Honor winner Commander Howard W. Gilmore issued his final order to “Take her down!”, sacrificing all for his country and his severely damaged submarine, the Growler made her way back to Brisbane for repairs. USS Growler was dubbed the “Kangaroo Express” by the Australians when, after the extensive and miraculous repairs to the ship’s bow, the Australian shipyards welded a kangaroo coin to each side of her repaired bow. For the Royal Australian Navy, Bowfin Pearl Harbor Base Vice Commander Tim Sparks, CMDCM(SS) (Retired) Gary Johnson presented a lei.
Among the over 3,500 submariners who lost their lives, we have the names of seventeen Filipino U.S. Army Rangers who were lost with USS Seawolf (SS-197). The U.S. Army’s 1st Filipino Infantry Regiment, represented today by Mrs. Anita Loando-Acohido, once again honors our ceremony as they do every year to place a lei on the special plaque engraved with the names of those seventeen heroic Filipinos who went down with Seawolf.
Honoring our ceremony were several organizations presenting flower wreaths. Representing Bowfin Pearl Harbor Base Submarine Veterans – RM2(SS) Dan Del Monte; representing the Pacific Fleet Submarine Memorial Association – Captain (Retired) Homer Ring; representing the Aloha Chapter of the Naval Submarine League – Captain (Retired) Pete Miller; and representing the Pearl Harbor Submarine Officers’ Spouses’ Association – President Kristen Newman and Vice President Jeanine Banyear
In honor of our submarine widows, a single rose was presented to Nancy Kreis.
Our keynote address was given by Captain Corey A. Poorman, Commander, Submarine Squadron 7.
The ceremony ended with a 3-gun volley by Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Navy Honor Guard Detachment followed by Taps by Bugler MU3 Andrew Gushiken of the U.S. Pacific Fleet Ceremonial Band.
On behalf of the Bowfin Pearl Harbor Base Submarine Veterans, mahalo to all for joining us in commemorating our submarine hero’s.
God Bless our Submarine Force, God Bless our Navy, and God Bless the United States of America. ALOHA!
Following our commemoration, Bowfin Pearl Harbor Base members, families and friends gathered for a Memorial Day barbecue at Lockwood Lanai.
Established in 2011, the Stanley K. Nicholls Award is awarded to the Bowfin Pearl Harbor Base member who, by his personal individual efforts and participation during the preceding years contributed the most to the advancement and embodiment of the USSVI Creed and Agenda, and by his dedicated service and support to the Bowfin Pearl Harbor Base and his fellow Submarine Veterans exemplifies the meaning and spirit of the word, “Shipmate.”
On June 6th, 1944 Allied soldiers, in one of the most pivotal battles of World War II, invaded the French coastline in order to propel German soldiers out of Western Europe and lead the way for victory against the tyrants of that era. Overlord was the largest air, land, and sea operation undertaken before or since June 6, 1944. The landing included over 5,000 ships, 11,000 airplanes, and over 150,000 service men. After years of meticulous planning and seemingly endless training, for the Allied Forces, it all came down to this: The boat ramp goes down, then jump, swim, run, and crawl to the cliffs. Many of the first young men (most not yet 20 years old) entered the surf carrying eighty pounds of equipment. They faced over 200 yards of beach before reaching the first natural feature offering any protection. Blanketed by small-arms fire and bracketed by artillery, they found themselves in hell. When it was over, the Allied Forces had suffered nearly 10,000 casualties; more than 4,000 were dead. Yet somehow, due to planning and preparation, and due to the valor, fidelity, and sacrifice of the Allied Forces, Fortress Europe had been breached.
National D-Day Memorial
The National D-Day Memorial is a war memorial located in Bedford, Virginia. It serves as the national memorial for American D-Day veterans. However, its scope is international in that it states, “In Tribute to the valor, fidelity and sacrifice of Allied Forces on D-Day, June 6, 1944” and commends all Allied Armed Forces during the D-Day invasion of Normandy, France on June 6, 1944 during World War II.
The memorial, bordering the Blue Ridge Mountains in southwestern Virginia, is an area of over 50 acres that overlooks the town of Bedford.
Thirty-four Virginia National Guard soldiers from the town of Bedford were part of D-Day. Nineteen of them were killed during the first day of the invasion, and four more died during the rest of the Normandy campaign. The town and the “Bedford Boys” had proportionately suffered the greatest losses of the campaign, thus inspiring the United States Congress to establish the D-Day memorial in Bedford.
The Bedford Boys included three sets of brothers: twins Roy and Ray Stevens, with Ray killed during the landing while Roy survived, Clyde and Jack Powers, with Jack killed and Clyde wounded but surviving, and Bedford and Raymond Hoback, both killed. The losses by the soldiers from Bedford were chronicled in the best-selling book “The Bedford Boys” by Alex Kershaw, and helped inspire the movie Saving Private Ryan.
The X-Craft and D-Day
The landing at Normandy has come to mark the “beginning of the end” of the war in Europe. The Higgins landing craft has become synonymous with the invasion as the boat that won the war. However, one type of vessel that is often forgotten from the narrative is the British midget submarines that played a key role in the landing efforts.
Preparations for D-day were extensive. Operation Neptune, the codename for cross-channel portion of the invasion, under Neptune was Operation Gambit, the use of two X -class British submarines that would mark the ends of the British and Canadian invasion beaches.
The submarine could carry a four-man crew and remain at sea for days. She could dive up to 300 feet. Due to her small size, the X-craft had only one access hatch and a small periscope that was mostly unreliable. Navigation was done through a Browns A Gyro Compass and Auto Helmsman. The X-craft could either be towed by a conventional submarine or launched from the deck of a submarine to reach its intended target. Two 3,570-lb mines were attached to its sides. A hand crank could release them when they were positioned below the hull of an enemy ship. The small crew consisted of one commanding officer, a first lieutenant, an engineer, and a diver.
Two X-class submarines would return to the beaches of Normandy leading up to the invasion to help aid in what would become the eventual downfall of the German troops. HMS X-23 and HMS X-20 would be the first vessels off the shores of Normandy leading up to the attack. Arriving on June 4, the X-crafts fixed their positions and waited for nightfall to surface to begin their mission. It wasn’t until they surfaced that they received the message that the operation had been postponed due to bad weather.
On 6 June at 0445 the submarines surfaced in rough seas. They set up the 18 feet high navigation beacons that each were carrying and switched them on. These shone a green light indicating their position away from the coast, visible up to 5 miles away although undetectable to anyone on land. They used the radio beacon and echo sounder to tap out a message for the minelayers approaching Sword and Juno beaches. The incoming fleet appeared on time and roared past them.
Operation Gambit was a success, the British and Canadian forces were able to land on their respective shores without falling off course or hitting any rocks, thanks to the beacons from the X-crafts.
While the X-20 and X-23, served only a minor role in the D-Day invasion, it shows the vital role a submarine can play in a nation’s arsenal.
On 15 April 1987, Submarine Base Pearl Harbor reopened a newly renovated 17-story Bachelor Enlisted Quarters capable of housing 516 personnel. This building was dedicated on 26 February 1988 in the memory of MM3 (SS) James E. Smallwood for the sacrifice of his life while performing his duties in the service of his country.
MM3(SS) James Smallwood was the duty auxiliaryman on USS Sargo in 1960 and was taking aboard oxygen from a pierside truck/trailer.
The connection was in the stern room with the manifold behind the watertight door in the forward port corner of the room. Although the exact circumstances will not be known, a high pressure high flow leak occurred.
Smallwood, realizing the danger to himself and the ship, woke the only other man in the room and told him to get out. (The stern room had some berthing). He then attempted to isolate the leak. Just as the man he awakened cleared the hatch, the room erupted in an oxygen rich explosion/fire fed by any flammable material and the high pressure oxygen. Smallwood died instantly in the room. The crew attempted to fight the fire and eventually, unable to enter the room and with the temperature of the aft bulkhead of the engine room high enough to blister and smoke the paint in the engine room even with hoses playing water on it, the decision was made to breast out from the wharf (S1B) and submerge the stern. This was done, the fire went out.
MM3 (SS) James E. Smallwood was posthumously awarded the Navy-Marine Corps Medal for heroic conduct.
The CITATION reads:
“For heroic conduct on June 14, 1960 while serving on board U.S.S. SARGO (SSN-583) moored at the Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. While supervising the operation of charging high pressure oxygen into the SARGO’s storage tanks, SMALLWOOD firmly and meticulously carried out the ship’s safety precautions requiring isolation of the charging compartment from the remainder of the vessel. Aware of the potential danger involved, he denied entry of several of his shipmates to the Stern Room and kept the watertight door and bulkhead flappers shut. SMALLWOOD lost his life in a raging fire which broke out during the oxygen charge. Through his steadfast adherence to safety precautions, he undoubtedly prevented further loss of life and a probable major disaster. His courage and outstanding devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.”
Bowfin Pearl Harbor Base 