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Published on 02/21/2020 – Last Updated on 02/21/2020 by OTC

The Virginia-class fast-attack submarine USS Colorado (SSN 788) returned from its maiden deployment to its homeport at Naval Submarine Base New London in Groton, Connecticut, Feb. 20.

Under the command of Capt. Jason Geddes, Colorado returns from a deployment to the U.S. European Command area of responsibility where it executed the chief of naval operations’ maritime strategy by supporting national security interests and maritime security operations.

“I am humbled by the skill, hard work, and dedication these Colorado warriors displayed for our maiden deployment,” said Geddes. “It was an all-hands effort to include the love and support we enjoyed from our amazing families back home.”

Colorado arrived at Submarine Base New London to the greeting of friends and family members who showed their support with cheers and handmade welcome home signs.

During the deployment, Colorado steamed approximately 39,000 nautical miles with the crew supporting diplomatic relationships by conducting port visits in Haakonsvern, Norway and Faslane, Scotland, and celebrated the milestone of crossing into the Arctic Circle.

Twenty-one enlisted Sailors and five officers earned their submarine warfare qualification, known as “dolphins,” while 12 enlisted Sailors advanced to the next paygrade and three reenlisted.

Colorado was commissioned in March 2018 as the 15th Virginia-class fast-attack submarine to join the fleet. The crew demonstrated critical navigational and ship handling skills throughout the deployment.

The Virginia-class submarine is 377 feet long and 34 feet wide, and weighs about 7,900 tons when submerged. Underwater, it can reach speeds in excess of 25 knots.