The USS New Jersey, a Virginia-class submarine, was commissioned by the U.S. Navy in a ceremony in Middletown, New Jersey, making it the first vessel in the fleet designed to fully integrate male and female sailors. The commanding officer, Cmdr. Steve Halle, praised the crew for their professionalism, diversity, and ability to exceed expectations despite any obstacles. The submarine has a crew of nearly 135 Navy personnel and was specifically designed with gender-neutral accommodations, including increased privacy in washrooms and sleeping areas, as well as access to top bunks and overhead valves designed with women’s needs in mind.
With the lifting of the ban on women in submarines in 2010, concerns about living quarters being too tight and lacking privacy prompted the Navy to retrofit subs and designate washrooms. However, the USS New Jersey was designed from the outset with gender-neutral accommodations to ensure the comfort and privacy of all sailors. Vice Admiral Robert Gaucher, commander of Submarine Forces Atlantic, emphasized that the submarine’s design took into consideration the height, reach, and strength of women, creating a more inclusive environment. The submarine, affectionately nicknamed “Jersey Girl,” features interior spaces decorated with posters and memorabilia representing the state, including a guitar signed by Jon Bon Jovi.
The USS New Jersey is a nuclear-powered submarine measuring 377 feet long with a 34-foot beam, capable of diving to depths greater than 800 feet and operating at speeds in excess of 25 knots. It is the third U.S. Navy ship to bear the name of the state of New Jersey, following the legendary battleship BB-62 that saw action during WWII, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. The commissioning of this new submarine reflects the Navy’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, as well as its dedication to excellence and innovation in maintaining a strong and capable fleet. The integration of male and female sailors on the USS New Jersey sets a new standard for gender equality within the Navy, paving the way for more inclusive practices across the entire military organization.
As the U.S. Navy faces challenges with a manpower shortage, the commissioning of the USS New Jersey marks a significant milestone in ensuring a diverse and integrated crew on its vessels. The crew of nearly 135 Navy personnel on the Virginia-class submarine demonstrates the Navy’s commitment to excellence, professionalism, and diversity. The design of the USS New Jersey, with gender-neutral accommodations and consideration for women’s needs, highlights the importance of inclusivity and equality within the armed forces. The submarine’s unique features, including increased privacy in washrooms and access to top bunks designed with women in mind, set a new standard for gender integration in the Navy’s fleet. With the nickname “Jersey Girl” and its interior decorated with memorabilia representing the state, the submarine embodies a sense of pride and identity while upholding the Navy’s traditions of strength, resilience, and innovation.
The commissioning of the USS New Jersey reflects the Navy’s ongoing efforts to adapt to changing societal norms and ensure that all sailors, regardless of gender, have equal opportunities to serve and excel on naval vessels. The commitment to diversity and inclusion demonstrated by the USS New Jersey’s crew sets a positive example for the entire military organization, encouraging other branches to implement similar practices. By creating a supportive and inclusive environment onboard the submarine, the Navy is fostering a culture of respect, teamwork, and excellence among its personnel. The USS New Jersey serves as a symbol of progress and innovation within the Navy, embodying the spirit of unity and collaboration that is essential for maintaining a strong and capable fleet in today’s rapidly changing world.
