From recon, to maintaining our nuclear program, to more conventional forms of naval warfare, nuclear-powered submarines are an integral part of our nation’s success. They have the capacity to stay underwater for months at a time. This is because they use nuclear power rather than diesel to fuel their activities. The man responsible for this remarkable feat is none other than Admiral Rickover. Of course, Hyman G. Rickover wasn’t the only man working on the technology, but under his direction, submarines were never the same. The Kindly Old Gentleman’s legacy continues to this day through education and military developments that continue to keep the U.S. Navy as the strongest in the world.
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Admiral Rickover Is Having a Fast Attack Sub Named After Him
Having a fast-attack submarine named after yourself is an honor for anyone, but it’s most fitting for Admiral Rickover. In 2023, the Navy welcomed the USS Hyman G. Rickover during a ceremony in Groton, Connecticut at the Naval Submarine Base New London.
This isn’t the first time a vessel would bear the name of Hyman Rickover; however, it’s a fitting tribute during a time of improved emphasis on naval capabilities. After all, Admiral Rickover is known as the “Father of the Nuclear Navy.” This is because he oversaw the completion of USS Nautilus, the world’s first nuclear sub which launched in 1955.
The sub can fit a crew comprising around 135 under the depths of the ocean that surpass 800 feet. Capable of traveling around 30 mph at top speed, the fast-attack sub has Tomahawk cruise missiles. It also has enough room to carry personnel safely through hostile waters.
No matter how you look at it, the newest fast-attack sub in 2023 is able to take on a variety of missions. But it all started many decades ago when the United States began to change the way Sailors would maneuver bodies of water forever.
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Father of the Nuclear Navy
New York City was the first place Chaim Gdala Rykower would call home, but the Polish immigrant facing Russian persecution would find roots in Chicago. When he came to America, his parents changed his name to Hyman Rickover. Eventually, he would receive an education at John Marshall Metropolitan High School.
From there, it was off to the United States Naval Academy where Hyman adopted the moniker “George.” However, despite being a third alternate, he was going to have an esteemed career as a Sailor.
His service would eventually lead him to command submarines. Moreover, earning a Master of Science at Columbia University would help with his engineering pursuits and Navy career.
Admiral Rickover would work around the world helping the U.S. during World War II. In 1945, he became Inspector General of the 19th Fleet. This was when the Navy began working with General Electric to develop a nuclear propulsion plant for destroyers.
Senior Officers weren’t on board when Admiral Rickover showcased what nuclear could do for the Navy. However, he would get help from notable figures that ultimately led to success. Both Fleet Admiral Chester Nimitz and Secretary of the Navy John L. Sullivan supported Rickover, leading to the creation of the first nuclear-powered vessel, USS Nautilus, in 1954.
Rickover’s role as head of Naval Reactors, and his dedication to reactor safety, resulted in the U.S. Navy’s record of zero reactor accidents. His strong influence extended to interviews with prospective Officers for nuclear ships, with over 14,000 interviews with recent college graduates alone.
Despite his career’s focus on nuclear propulsion, Admiral Rickover surprisingly testified that if he had a choice, he would “sink” all nuclear-powered ships due to radiation concerns. However, he later explained that he had no regrets as he believed he helped preserve peace for the U.S.
The Rickover Naval Academy Continues to Inspire the Next Leaders of Chicago
Discipline, leadership, courage, and learning more about one’s self are all experiences that can be taught in the U.S. military. The Father of the Nuclear Navy knew this all too well. Today, the legacy of Admiral Rickover lives on through a military-style academy in Chicago.
Students attending Rickover Naval Academy receive more than just a high school education. They receive life skills that can help them move forward. While structured as a military school, cadets are free to choose a life in the American Armed Forces or as a civilian after graduating.
The purpose of the school isn’t necessarily to inspire a life of serving but to promote academic success and foster positive values. Admiral Rickover attended school in Chicago and had strong roots there. Today, he is inspiring students to carve their own path through the development of positive character traits.
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