Rear Adm. Chris Cavanaugh, commander of Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet (COMSUBPAC), presents the Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine USS Nebraska (SSBN 739) blue crew chiefs mess with the Hugh McCracken award during a ceremony at Naval Base Kitsap – Bangor, May 1, 2025. Every year, Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Atlantic Fleet and COMSUBPAC recognize the top two chiefs messes per coast. One attack, and one ballistic missile or guided missile submarine, are evaluated and selected as the recipient of the Hugh McCracken Leadership Award. (U.S. Navy photo by Lt. Zachary Anderson)
Rear Adm. Chris Cavanaugh, commander of Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet (COMSUBPAC), presents the Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine USS Nebraska (SSBN 739) blue crew chiefs mess with the Hugh McCracken award during a ceremony at Naval Base Kitsap – Bangor, May 1, 2025.
Every year, Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Atlantic Fleet and COMSUBPAC recognize the top two chiefs messes per coast. One attack, and one ballistic missile or guided missile submarine, are evaluated and selected as the recipient of the Hugh McCracken Leadership Award.
Named after the first Submarine Force Master Chief, Hugh E. McCracken, the award is presented annually by the Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Atlantic Fleet and COMSUBPAC to two chief petty officer messes per coast, one from a fast-attack submarine and one from a guided or ballistice missile submarine. The award highlights the commitment and excellence of the chiefs’ mess in ensuring the success of their commands.
USS Nebraska (SSBN-739) is the 14th Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine, and the second United States Navy vessel to be named in honor of Nebraska, the 37th state.
