About this Unit
USS Seahorse (SSN-669) was a Sturgeon-class attack submarine commissioned into the United States Navy on 19 September 1969. Throughout her service during the Cold War, she conducted numerous intelligence-gathering and surveillance missions, often operating in the Atlantic and Mediterranean. Seahorse participated in several NATO exercises and special operations, earning a reputation for her stealth and effectiveness. After nearly 25 years of distinguished service, she was decommissioned on 17 August 1995.
Historical Facts
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Namesake: USS Seahorse (SSN-669) was the second United States Navy ship named after the seahorse, a small fish with a horse-shaped head.
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Sturgeon-class Submarine: She was a Sturgeon-class nuclear-powered fast attack submarine, one of the workhorse classes of the Cold War era.
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Launched in 1968: Seahorse was launched on 15 June 1968 at General Dynamics Electric Boat Division in Groton, Connecticut, and commissioned on 19 September 1969.
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Arctic Operations: In 1977, Seahorse completed a historic under-ice voyage, surfacing at the North Pole and participating in scientific and navigational experiments in the Arctic.
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Cold War Missions: The submarine was actively involved in intelligence-gathering and surveillance operations during the height of the Cold War, often in challenging and classified environments.
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Tomodachi Award: In 1981, Seahorse received the "Tomodachi Award" from the city of Yokosuka, Japan, for her contribution to fostering goodwill between the United States and Japan.
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Reactor Compartment Disposal: After decommissioning, Seahorse’s reactor compartment was removed and disposed of as part of the Navy’s Ship-Submarine Recycling Program.
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Lengthy Service: The submarine served for over 26 years, being decommissioned on 17 August 1995, after a long and distinguished career.
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Ship’s Motto: Seahorse’s motto was "Pax Per Potens" ("Peace Through Power"), reflecting the deterrence philosophy of nuclear submarines.
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Legacy: Crew members of Seahorse are known as "Seahorsers," and the boat is remembered for its professionalism and contributions to US naval operations during the Cold War.
