"USS NAUTILUS in Groton"
by Marcelle Morrisey St. Catherine of Siena School, Trumbull, CT
I was strong and mighty and the first of my kind. I am 319 feet long and 27 feet wide. I am the U.S.S. Nautilus and I am important because I was the world's first nuclear powered submarine.
The government decided to build me in 1951 and President Harry Truman was even there at the ceremony when construction started in Groton, Connecticut. It took them 18 months to complete me and in January 1954, I was officially launched. First Lady Mamie Eisenhower broke a bottle of champagne across my bow, but don't worry, it didn't hurt. Eight months later, I became the first commissioned nuclear powered ship in the United States Navy.
In January of 1955, I officially became a working part of the Navy when my first commanding officer, Eugene Wilkinson, ordered all lines cast off me. He said that day, "Underway on Nuclear Power." This phrase went on to be a very historical and memorable message.
For the next 25 years I traveled a lot! I went all over the world and was involved in many developmental testing programs for the U.S. Navy. One of my proudest moments came in 1958 when I became the first vessel of any kind to reach the North Pole. It was very cold there, but it was worth it.
In the spring of 1979, I once again left Groton, Connecticut for my final voyage ever. I traveled to California. Soon after in 1980, after 25 years and almost half a million miles steamed. I was decommissioned. I was tired and I was ready for some well-deserved rest.
For me, the best was yet to come. I was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1982, which means everyone realized my contribution to my country. I was finally towed back to Groton, Connecticut for the last time on 1985. I was home again.
My doors opened to the public one-year later in 1986, when I became available as an exhibit. For the first time everyone was able to experience how exciting and important I really was.
Everyone, young or old, can tour me. You could see where my crew ate and slept. You could visit a torpedo room and see many awards that I received.
After my years of service, I am happiest now. If I haven't already met you, I'll look forward to your visit soon. I'll be waiting.