Intro
Discover the secrets of Bangor Naval Base, a strategic US Navy facility in Washington state. Learn about its history, mission, and operations, as well as its role in nuclear deterrence and defense. Find out about its connection to the Pacific Northwest and its impact on local communities, including its relationship with nearby Naval Base Kitsap.
The Bangor Naval Base, also known as Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor, is a United States naval base located on the Hood Canal, in Kitsap County, Washington. It is one of the largest and most strategically important naval bases on the West Coast. Here are five things to know about Bangor Naval Base:
Firstly, Bangor Naval Base is home to a significant portion of the U.S. Pacific Fleet's ballistic missile submarines and a number of surface ships. The base provides critical support to the fleet, including maintenance, training, and logistics. The presence of these submarines and ships is a key component of the U.S. military's nuclear deterrence strategy.
Secondly, the base is a significant economic driver for the local region. According to a 2020 report, the base generates over $1.1 billion in economic activity each year and supports over 13,000 jobs. The base is also a major source of employment for local residents, with over 15,000 military personnel and civilians working on the base.
Thirdly, Bangor Naval Base has a rich history dating back to the 1940s. During World War II, the base was established as a naval air station and was used as a training facility for pilots. In the 1960s, the base was converted to a submarine base and has since been home to a number of different submarine squadrons.
Fourthly, the base is a major environmental concern for the local community. The base is located near the Hood Canal, a sensitive ecosystem that is home to a number of endangered species, including the Puget Sound Chinook salmon. In recent years, there have been concerns raised about the impact of the base's operations on the local environment, including the use of sonar and the disposal of hazardous waste.
Lastly, the base is a critical component of the U.S. military's response to the growing threat of China in the Asia-Pacific region. The base is home to a number of submarines and surface ships that are equipped with advanced sensors and communications systems, allowing them to operate effectively in the region.
History of Bangor Naval Base
Bangor Naval Base has a rich history dating back to the 1940s. During World War II, the base was established as a naval air station and was used as a training facility for pilots. The base was originally known as Naval Air Station Seattle and was used to train pilots for combat missions in the Pacific.
In the 1960s, the base was converted to a submarine base and was renamed Naval Submarine Base Bangor. The base was home to a number of different submarine squadrons, including the USS Triton, the first nuclear-powered submarine.
Throughout the Cold War, the base played a critical role in the U.S. military's response to the Soviet Union. The base was home to a number of ballistic missile submarines, which were equipped with nuclear-tipped missiles.
In the 1990s, the base underwent a significant transformation, as the U.S. military began to focus on new threats in the Asia-Pacific region. The base was upgraded to support the new Virginia-class submarines, which were designed to operate in the region.
Today, the base is home to a number of different submarine squadrons, including the USS Nevada, a ballistic missile submarine.
Environmental Concerns
The base is a major environmental concern for the local community. The base is located near the Hood Canal, a sensitive ecosystem that is home to a number of endangered species, including the Puget Sound Chinook salmon.
In recent years, there have been concerns raised about the impact of the base's operations on the local environment. The base's use of sonar has been linked to the deaths of a number of marine mammals, including orcas and seals.
The base's disposal of hazardous waste is also a major concern. The base has been criticized for its handling of hazardous materials, including the disposal of nuclear waste.
The Navy has taken steps to address these concerns, including the implementation of new safety protocols and the development of new technologies to reduce the base's environmental impact.
Economic Impact of Bangor Naval Base
The base is a significant economic driver for the local region. According to a 2020 report, the base generates over $1.1 billion in economic activity each year and supports over 13,000 jobs.
The base is also a major source of employment for local residents, with over 15,000 military personnel and civilians working on the base. The base's payroll is over $1.3 billion annually, making it one of the largest employers in the state.
The base's economic impact is not limited to the immediate area. The base also supports a number of local businesses, including contractors, suppliers, and service providers.
In addition, the base's presence attracts a number of other businesses and industries to the area, including defense contractors and technology firms.
Job Opportunities
The base offers a number of job opportunities for local residents, including military personnel, civilians, and contractors. The base is home to a number of different commands and units, each with its own unique mission and requirements.
Some of the most common jobs on the base include:
- Military personnel: The base is home to a number of different military units, including submarine squadrons, surface ships, and security forces.
- Civilian employees: The base employs a number of civilians, including administrators, technicians, and engineers.
- Contractors: The base uses a number of contractors to provide support services, including maintenance, logistics, and security.
Gallery of Bangor Naval Base
Bangor Naval Base Image Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary mission of Bangor Naval Base?
+The primary mission of Bangor Naval Base is to provide critical support to the U.S. Pacific Fleet's ballistic missile submarines and surface ships.
What is the economic impact of Bangor Naval Base on the local community?
+The base generates over $1.1 billion in economic activity each year and supports over 13,000 jobs.
What are some of the environmental concerns associated with Bangor Naval Base?
+Concerns include the base's use of sonar, disposal of hazardous waste, and impact on local marine life.
What types of jobs are available on Bangor Naval Base?
+The base offers a range of jobs, including military personnel, civilian employees, and contractors.
What is the history of Bangor Naval Base?
+The base was established in the 1940s as a naval air station and was later converted to a submarine base.
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive understanding of Bangor Naval Base, its history, mission, economic impact, and environmental concerns. If you have any further questions or would like to learn more, please don't hesitate to reach out.