Pullman native goes underwater for U.S. Navy

BANGOR - A Pullman native is serving aboard the USS Nevada, one of the world's most advanced nuclear-powered submarines.

Seaman Anthony Heaney serves as an information systems technician and joined the Navy to seek opportunities to earn money for school and support his family.

"I had no money for school or to support my family," said Heaney. "The Navy was an opportunity to get both."

Heaney attended Pullman High School and graduated in 2019. Heaney now uses skills and values similar to those found in Pullman.

"Life isn't easy," said Heaney. "Nothing is free. Everything is earned."

These lessons have helped Heaney while serving aboard USS Nevada.

Known as America's "Silent Service," the Navy's submarine force operates a large fleet of technically advanced vessels. The submarines are capable of conducting rapid defensive and offensive operations around the world, in furtherance of U.S. national security.

There are three basic types of submarines: fast-attack submarines (SSN), ballistic-missile submarines (SSBN), and guided-missile submarines (SSGN).

Submarines provide the Navy with "unprecedented" strike and special operation mission capabilities from a stealthy, clandestine platform.

"The world is 70 percent water, and the U.S. Navy defends all of it," said Heaney.

Heaney and other sailors have many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during their military service. Heaney is most proud of completing Navy "A" school.

"I'm proud of graduating from IT school near the top of my class, especially since I had no prior knowledge about information technology," said Heaney.

As Heaney and other sailors continue to train and perform the missions to support national defense, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.

"Serving in the Navy allows me to provide for my family, and I couldn't ask for more," added Heaney.