USS Casimir Pulaski (SSBN-633)

• Namesake: USS Casimir Pulaski (SSBN-633) was named after the Polish nobleman and American Revolutionary War hero, Casimir Pulaski, known as the "father of the American cavalry." • Commissioning: The submarine was commissioned on August 14, 1964, at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in Kittery, Maine. • Polaris to Poseidon: Originally armed with Polaris A-3 ballistic missiles, she was later converted to carry the more advanced Poseidon C3 missiles during a major overhaul in the early 1970s. • Dual Crews: Like other ballistic missile submarines, she operated with two alternating crews, Blue and Gold, to maximize her deterrent patrol time at sea. • Cold War Patrols: During her service, Casimir Pulaski completed over 88 strategic deterrent patrols, serving as a vital part of the United States’ nuclear triad during the Cold War. • First Patrol: Her first deterrent patrol began in November 1964, shortly after commissioning, marking her immediate entry into strategic service. • Namesake’s Legacy: The submarine and her crew maintained close ties with the Polish-American community, honoring Pulaski’s legacy with special events and visits. • Special Recognition: In 1970, the USS Casimir Pulaski was awarded the Navy Unit Commendation for meritorious service, recognizing her crew's excellence and dedication. • Deactivation: She was decommissioned on March 7, 1994, after nearly 30 years of service, and her reactor compartment was recycled at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard. • Ship's Bell: The ship’s bell and other artifacts are preserved and displayed in museums and at naval heritage sites, continuing to honor her history and namesake.