Rear Adm. David Kriete, Commander, Submarine Group 9, spoke at the Tacoma Navy League February Dinner held at the Emerald Queen Hotel and Casino in Tacoma, Feb. 19.

The Tacoma Navy League is composed of community and corporate affiliate members, retired military, family members, and other sea service supporters. This evening was an opportunity to trade sea stories and gain perspective for the audience.

In his speech, Kriete explained the advantage of strategic deterrence and how a robust conventional capability deters both nuclear and conventional conflict.

"We have successfully prevented major power war between the great powers of the earth since 1945," said Kriete. "Although Bangor is home base for three different types of subs: ballistic-missile submarines, guided-missile submarines and fast-attack submarines, make no mistake, the SSBN mission, the ballistic-missile submarine mission of strategic deterrence, is the whole reason that base exists up there."

The Tacoma Navy League supports active-duty military personnel through the "adoption" of ships and units, commissioning ceremonies, award programs, and other recognition programs. Kriete believes strongly in supporting community organizations, like the Tacoma Navy League, because they continue to offer support and guidance to current Sailors.

"You might not realize it, but today's Sailors pay lots of attention to you and what you have to say," said Kriete. "They respect you for your service both in uniform and in the community and admire your service. We can only be successful through the combined efforts of our Sailors, their families, and supportive community organizations like the Navy league."

The Navy League was founded in 1902 by President Theodore Roosevelt, who had previously been assistant secretary of the Navy. The Tacoma Council was formed in 1956 and currently has 60 members.

For more news from Commander, Submarine Group 9, visit http://www.navy.mil/.