The Vice Chief of Naval Operations (VCNO), Adm. Bill Moran, visited Naval Submarine Base (NSB) Kings Bay, Nov. 4, for a firsthand look at the east coast home of Ohio-class submarines.

During his visit, Moran was the guest speaker at a Submarine Veteran's Ceremony held at the World War II pavilion aboard NSB Kings Bay. The annual event honors the World War II submarine veterans and remembers the 52 American and 83 British submarines lost in the war.

"The veterans we honor here today joined the Navy during World War II, knowing full well what our country was up against," said Moran. "It is because of their sacrifices in the Atlantic and throughout the Pacific that our Navy became the greatest maritime power in the world."

Prior to the ceremony, the VCNO toured the base and visited the ballistic-missile submarine USS Maryland (SSBN 738).

Moran spoke to Sailors during two all-hands calls aboard Maryland and awarded two Sailors with their submarine qualification pins, or "dolphins."

"Nothing like having the Vice Chief show up to make you get it done," said Moran. "It is quite an honor for me to be able to do that."

During the all-hands calls, Moran explained the changes currently facing the Navy, the importance of the CNO's recently released "A Design for Maintaining Maritime Superiority," and the crucial mission of the U.S. Submarine Force.

"What you do is arguably the most important mission in the Navy," Moran said. "The enemy has no idea where you are and when you will strike."

Following his initial remarks, Sailors had the opportunity to ask the VCNO questions about plans for Ohio-class replacement, changes to the Navy's rating system, uniform changes, meritorious advancement policies, a paperless submarine force and the revised retirement system.

Petty Officer 2nd Class Jonathon Seiler asked a question about how the new Navy Occupational Specialties, or NOSs, will effect manning and career opportunities.

"We have to modernize the way we track people," said Moran. "The idea is to get a sort of 'DNA strip' that will give you all more flexibility in your careers, and the opportunity to do what you want to do as long as you have the proper training and qualifications."

"The VCNO gave us great feedback," Seiler said. "He explained the rate change in a way that was informative and logical."

Adm. Bill Moran is the 39th Vice Chief of Naval Operations. He previously served as chief of naval personnel for nearly three years, where he was responsible for planning and programming Navy manpower, training and education.