From Laurens to a Navy submarine: Sailor serves aboard USS Newport News

Petty Officer 2nd Class Chalen Smallwood, a native of Laurens, South Carolina, serves under the sea aboard USS Newport News to ensure Americans’ safety.

Smallwood graduated from Laurens High School in 2024.

“Growing up in Laurens taught me to roll with the punches,” Smallwood said. “I learned how to adapt to the environment. My parents grew up moving around a lot; they taught me change wasn’t a bad thing.”

Smallwood joined the Navy two years ago.

“I joined the Navy because I had other plans besides college,” Smallwood said. “I wanted to see the world and get out.”

Today, Smallwood serves as a machinist’s mate (nuclear) aboard a fast-attack submarine (SSN) homeported at Naval Station Norfolk.

Fast-attack submarines, like USS Newport News, are designed to hunt down and destroy enemy submarines and surface ships; strike targets ashore with cruise missiles; carry and deliver Navy SEALs; conduct intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions; and engage in mine warfare. The Virginia-class SSN is the most advanced submarine in the world today. It combines stealth and payload capability to meet Combatant Commanders’ demands in this era of strategic competition.

Strategic deterrence is the nation’s ultimate insurance program, according to Navy officials. As a member of the submarine force, Smallwood serves aboard a platform capable of bringing the fight to enemies in defense of America and its allies.

Smallwood has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.

“My proudest accomplishment was graduating from the Navy’s nuclear program,” Smallwood said. “It took a lot of work to get through; it’s one of the hardest schools in the Navy.”

This year, the Navy is commemorating its contribution to the nation’s defense as the United States celebrates 250 years of independence. According to Navy officials, for more than 250 years, the Navy has sailed the globe defending freedom and protecting prosperity.

With 90% of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to recruiting and retaining talented people from across the rich fabric of America.

“Serving in the Navy means I’m doing my part for the country,” Smallwood said. “I can sleep better at night knowing that I am doing everything I can so that myself and my family can be safe.”

Smallwood is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.

“I would like to thank my aunt and uncle Gemini and Benr,” Smallwood added. “They’ve always been supportive. They also agreed that there wasn’t a lot back home and they wanted me to see the world.”

Photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Abigail Reyes, Navy Office of Community Outreach