USS Alabama (SSBN-731)

• Ohio-class Submarine: USS Alabama (SSBN-731) is an Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine, the sixth vessel of its class, and is part of the United States Navy's strategic nuclear deterrent force. • Commissioning: She was commissioned on May 25, 1985, following her construction at the Electric Boat Division of General Dynamics in Groton, Connecticut. • Namesake: USS Alabama is the seventh U.S. Navy vessel to bear the name, honoring the state of Alabama. • Dual Crews: Like all Ohio-class SSBNs, she operates with two alternating crews, Blue and Gold, to maximize her operational availability. • Strategic Role: The submarine carries up to 24 Trident II D5 ballistic missiles, making her a key component of the United States’ nuclear triad and a powerful deterrent. • Hollywood Appearance: USS Alabama gained fame as the namesake and inspiration for the 1995 Hollywood film Crimson Tide, starring Gene Hackman and Denzel Washington, although the film was not shot on the actual submarine. • Battle Efficiency Awards: She has earned multiple Battle Efficiency (“E”) awards, which recognize the highest state of battle readiness within the fleet. • Homeport: USS Alabama is homeported at Naval Base Kitsap in Bangor, Washington, where she conducts her deterrent patrols in the Pacific Ocean. • Crest and Motto: The submarine's crest features a depiction of the state of Alabama and a star representing Montgomery, the state capital. Her motto is “Audemus Jura Nostra Defendere” (“We Dare Defend Our Rights”). • Submarine Service Recognition: In 2018, USS Alabama was awarded the Omaha Trophy, recognizing her as one of the best units in U.S. Strategic Command for excellence in strategic deterrence.