Pacific Century Fellows tour USS Asheville

SANTA RITA, Guam—Los Angeles-class fast attack submarine USS Asheville hosted the Pacific Century Fellows Program-Marianas Chapter at Naval Base Guam yesterday, July 18.

The leadership development program is modeled after the Pacific Century Fellows of Hawaii, with the same objective of developing potential leaders by creating leadership learning opportunities and experiences of the CNMI. Both programs drew inspiration from the White House Fellows Program founded by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1964.

“The fellowship program is a wonderful opportunity for me to expand my knowledge, ability to lead, and to take on a more active role in public service” said Lorenzo Aldan, an extension aide with youth development. “I’m grateful that I was selected to be a part of the program and to serve my community in a positive way.”

The nine-month program selects successful, career-minded individuals from various civilian businesses, government entities, and nonprofit organizations within the CNMI. The members complete monthly sessions and periodic retreats covering subjects such as education, government (federal and local), healthcare and quality of life.

Cmdr. Jeremy Pelstring, commanding officer of Asheville, led the tour and discussed the capabilities of the submarine as the group walked topside before heading into the submarine’s control room, living quarters, torpedo room, machinery room and mess decks.

“This tour was a great chance to showcase Asheville and its capabilities to our future leaders,” said Pelstring. “I hope their biggest takeaway is the pride and professionalism that every single member of this crew exudes.”

After departing Asheville, the group toured other military facilities on island including Marine Corps Activity Guam, Andersen Air Force Base, and Joint Region Marianas.

“It’s remarkable to see these facilities firsthand,” said Aldan. “I enjoyed learning about USS Asheville, the crew, and her military presence [in] Guam. The tour has given me a better understanding of our military and those who serve.”

Asheville is assigned to Commander, Submarine Squadron 15, which is located at Polaris Point, Naval Base Guam in Apra Harbor, Guam, and consists of four Los Angeles-class attack submarines. The CSS-15 staff is responsible for providing training, material and personnel readiness support to these commands.

Also based out of Naval Base Guam are submarine tenders USS Frank Cable and USS Emory S. Land. The submarines and tenders are maintained as part of the U.S. Navy’s forward-deployed submarine force and are readily capable of meeting global operational requirements.

LT.J.G. Meagan Morrison (Commander, Submarine Squadron 15)