In this crazy episode of Submarine Sea Stories, Chris Waits shares his fascinating journey, from growing up in a Navy family, attending MIT, and finding his passion in nuclear engineering, to serving in the Navy aboard a nuclear-powered submarine. Chris recounts a harrowing incident where his submarine, the USS Hartford, collided with the USS New Orleans, describing the immediate impact, frantic aftermath, and the life-altering lessons he learned. Despite the challenging experience, Chris transformed it into a powerful teaching moment for future sailors and now applies his lessons in his civilian role at a nuclear power plant. This episode is an eye-opening look into the intricacies and dangers of submarine navigation and the importance of vigilance and learning from past experiences.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Background

00:11 Growing Up in a Navy Family

00:48 Father's Submarine Career

01:58 Choosing the Navy and MIT

03:44 First Experiences with Nuclear Power

05:30 Transition to Civilian Nuclear Power

07:36 Joining the Submarine Force

09:04 First Deployment and Responsibilities

12:40 Life Aboard the Submarine

16:26 Collision Incident and Aftermath

21:01 Collision with the USS New Orleans

22:43 Immediate Aftermath and Damage Assessment

24:39 Struggles to Surface and Communication Challenges

25:56 Guided to Safety by the USS New Orleans

27:07 Reflections on the Incident and Leadership

29:18 Lessons Learned and Teaching at Submarine School

35:04 Applying Lessons in Civilian Life

40:22 Current Role and Final Thoughts

Join host Bill Nowicki as he dives deep into the remarkable journey of Oliver Hannan, a submariner with 44 years in the nuclear industry. In this episode of Submarine Sea Stories, they discuss Oliver's extensive career from his beginnings as a nuke machinist mate to his critical role in the preservation and demolition of historical nuclear prototypes. Oliver shares his experiences in solving complex problems and highlights the importance of innovation and integrity in maintaining America’s naval nuclear history. A compelling listen for anyone interested in the intricate world of nuclear propulsion and historical preservation.

Idaho’s Nuclear Navy (Idaho Public Television)

Video Link

USS Idaho

USS Idaho Information

Slysteel knives

Oliver's precision knives!

In this episode of the Submarine Sea Stories Podcast, host Bill Nowicki reunites with Dave Bowman, a former submariner who was first interviewed nearly 11 years ago. They reminisce about Dave’s captivating career in the Navy, his passion for naval history, and his extraordinary journey from a landlocked upbringing to life underwater. Dave shares personal anecdotes about influential mentors, his deep love for submarines, and his transformative 20-year process of converting to Judaism from a conservative Christian household. They also delve into the challenges of conveying the significance of their Cold War duties to younger generations and the camaraderie found within submarine veterans’ organizations. This episode explores personal growth, military history, and the profound connections forged within the submarine community.

00:00 - Introduction to the Podcast

00:26 - Catching Up with Dave Bowman

01:17 - Dave’s Journey to the Navy

05:03 - Life in the Navy and Mentorship

07:15 - Influential Figures and Personal Growth

10:28 - Transitioning Out of the Navy

18:04 - Full Circle: Returning to Submarine Community

18:33 - Joining the Submarine Veterans

19:11 - Discovering the Value of Sub Vet Meetings

20:22 - Becoming Base Commander During COVID

20:45 - Transition to Base Historian and Digitalization

22:07 - The Importance of Cold War Stories

24:42 - Challenges of Sharing Cold War Experiences

27:45 - The Bond Among Submarine Veterans

30:53 - Dave’s Podcasts and Online Presence

33:18 - Final Thoughts and Farewell