The USS Alexander Hamilton SSBN-617, a Lafayette class nuclear powered submarine was built by the Electric Boat Division of General Dynamics Corporation, in Groton, Connecticut. Construction began in 1962. Was completed in 1963. Named after Alexander Hamilton, a figure in history and the nations first Secretary of the Treasury the submarine honored his contributions to the establishment of the US Navy.
An important feature of the USS Alexander Hamilton SSBN 617 was its capacity to carry Polaris missiles with warheads making it a crucial element of the US Navys strategic nuclear defense during the Cold War era. Equipped with sonar and communication systems the submarine operated effectively in deep sea environments.
Throughout its service spanning over two decades the USS Alexander Hamilton SSBN 617 significantly contributed to Americas nuclear deterrence capabilities. Through patrols and training exercises it played a role in maintaining peace and stability during periods of heightened tensions, between the United States and Soviet Union.
The crew of the USS Alexander Hamilton SSBN-617 was well trained and committed playing a role, in carrying out their missions.
Belonging to the Lafayette class of missile submarines, the USS Alexander Hamilton SSBN 617 was an upgrade from the aging Polaris submarines in the US Navy. These submarines boasted missile systems and capabilities for patrols contributing significantly to the US Navy's nuclear deterrence strategy during the Cold War.
Commissioned on January 27, 1964, under the command of Captain John E. Christensen, the USS Alexander Hamilton SSBN 617 officially joined the US Navys fleet in a ceremony held at Naval Submarine Base New London, in Groton, Connecticut. The crew underwent training and thorough preparations before embarking on their patrol to ensure they were adequately prepared for their responsibilities.
The Silent Sentinel: Exploring the USS Alexander Hamilton SSBN-617
The USS Alexander Hamilton SSBN 617 was a Lafayette class ballistic missile submarine that served in the United States Navy from 1963, to 1993. It measured 425 feet in length and 33 feet in beam with a displacement of 7,250 tons when submerged. The submarine's hull was made of high strength steel to handle the pressures of deep-sea missions.
Powered by an S5W pressurized water reactor the USS Alexander Hamilton could reach speeds exceeding 20 knots underwater. It featured sonar systems for detecting and tracking enemy vessels along with navigation capabilities. The submarine operated with a crew consisting of 13 officers and 130 enlisted personnel.
In terms of weaponry the USS Alexander Hamilton carried 16 Polaris A 3 missiles, each of delivering multiple nuclear warheads. It was armed with four 21 inch torpedo tubes to launch Mark 48 torpedoes at enemy submarines or surface ships. The Polaris missiles boasted a range exceeding 2,500 miles and target precision.
The USS Alexander Hamilton played a role as a nuclear deterrent, during the Cold War era. It possessed the capability to unleash strikes on enemy targets while lurking beneath the ocean's surface.
The submarine's cutting edge technology, weapons and armaments played a role, in the United States strategic capabilities throughout its operational period.
USS Alexander Hamilton SSBN-617 Crew Member Reports of Time Aboard
The USS Alexander Hamilton (SSBN-617) holds a treasure trove of memories for its former crew members, spanning decades of service and camaraderie. The guestbook posts from these sailors paint a vivid picture of life aboard this storied submarine, highlighting the unique experiences and bonds formed during their time at sea.**James Aerts (1974, E4)** recalls his role as the ship's cook, reminiscing about the night Dotson set the kitchen on fire and inviting former shipmates to reconnect and share memories.
**Bill Anderson (1982, RM2(SS))** fondly remembers the Gold Crew, the seven patrols he participated in, and the camaraderie during shore leaves, particularly enjoying fish and chips in Dunoon and bus rides to Hartford and from Prestwick to the Loch.
**Michael Bailey (1966, MT1(SS))** reflects on his two patrols, the hard work, and his promotion to Chief before transferring to the Lewis and Clark.
**Samuel Baldwin (1984, ET3/SS)** expresses his love for the crew and the boat, lamenting that his time was cut short but cherishing the friendships made.
**Robert Bean (1982, EM1(SS))** lists his numerous patrols with the Blue Crew and mentions Captain Corwin Guy Mendenhall III and Richard Dick (ENG).
**Doc Bertoline (1989, HM2)** shares memories of his first boat and first medivac, the great crew, and the MTs knocking on the sickbay door during rounds.
**William Biro (1979, ET2(SS))** recalls a humorous quote from Steve Brown about the time spent at sea, highlighting the camaraderie and shared experiences.
**Joe Blair (1990)** recounts making the final patrol on the Alexander Hamilton, taking her through the Panama Canal, and port calls in San Diego, Hawaii, and Bangor before leaving active duty.
**Frank Bonafede (1981, MM1/SS)** mentions his role as A-Div LPO, making seven patrols, and his involvement in organizing reunions for former crew members.
**John Bouma (1974, STS3)** remembers arriving when the boat was in the yards in Newport News, VA, and departing in 1976 after being selected for NESEP.
**Rl Boutwell (1966, ETR2)** describes his time as some of the best days of his life, making lifelong friends, and his progression from ETR3 to ETR2 before attending ET 'B' school.
**Paul Candler (1969, SK2 (SS))** reflects on his journey from E2 to SK2, the only command he had during his enlistment, and the many good memories.
**Lou Cangiano (1975, SN/SS)** shares his pride in graduating from New Jersey City University with a BA in History and his role as leading seaman on his last patrol.
**Carl Cash (1973, ET1(SS))** recalls going through the overhaul in Newport News Shipyard, the subsequent shakedown cruise, and making two deterrent patrols.
**Charlie Chace (1970, MM2(SS))** cherishes the friendships made during his three patrols, particularly with Scott Last, Bob Miller, and Jim Telsey.
**Robert Coe (1989, MMFN-MM2(SS))** reminisces about the great times with Skinny and the gang, missing those days as he retires from the Navy as an MM1(SS).
**William Connors (1978, PN2(SS))** vividly remembers shipmates and the tough runs balanced by R&R, eagerly awaiting reunions.
**Tony Coppa (1983, LT)** speaks highly of the fine men he served with, the pride of the blue crew ending the Cold War, and the leadership of a real Commander & Chief (Reagan).
**Dan Crigger (1983, YN3(SS))** fondly recalls playing Spades with Kimpel and nearly marrying a girl from his hometown, highlighting the fun times had by all.
**Brad Dawson (1984, MM1(SS))** lists his roles and the leaders he served with, including CO CDR Mendenhall and MDIV chiefs Miller, Richards, and Milluer.
**John Depugh (1984, YN1)** remembers the tough but rewarding times under Capt. Guy Mendenhall, Cdr Schaffer, and Cdr Trabona, and the good times in Scotland.
**Patrick Donovan (1976, ICFN)** expresses pride in his service and the great memories of the ship and his shipmates.
**John Entinger (1988, ET2)** is looking for Al Taylor and reminisces about Harold R. Bishop and the camaraderie among the crew.
**Michael Fitzgerald (1981, EM1)** cherishes the best of times, seven patrols, diving off the missile deck during swim call in the Bahamas, and the many friends made.
**Michael Gallegos (1978, QM3 (SS))** recalls his submarine qualification and the nickname "Snowflake" for the navigator, highlighting the camaraderie among shipmates.
**Ronald Gunn (1966, MMC (SS))** reflects on his service on the Hamilton, the third of four SSBNs he served on, and the three patrols he made.
**John "Hags" Hagerman (1969, ET)** fondly remembers the great crew and the "Pig Book" in the Nav Center, chilling beer in the SINS console, and the camaraderie.
**James Hicks (1961, TM3--4)** expresses surprise at not finding more original crew members listed and hopes to reconnect with them.
**Trevor Hughes (1962, MM1 (SS))** recalls being a Gold Crew Plank Owner, making all Gold crew patrols, and taking the boat back to EB for refueling and overhaul.
**Monty James D. Montgomery (1977, ICC(SS))** enjoyed his time in the Goat Locker, the crew, and the guys who worked for him, and went on to a successful career post-Navy.
**Bernard Jung (1986, MM1/SS (NUC))** describes his ride through the Panama Canal, staying onboard for the entire refuel, and the journey back to Groton.
**Kevin Kalmbach (1982, EMC (SS/SW) RET)** reflects on the interesting times during his eight patrols, the valuable lessons learned, and the finest crew in the Navy.
**Werner Keith (1968, LT)** joined the Overhaul Crew with Gold Dolphins, served as OOD and Diving Officer, and qualified as a Nuclear Engineer.
**Conrad Kendall (1961)**, a Plankowner, recalls Alpha Testing, being onboard when Thresher went down, and the first three Gold Patrols.
**Joe Kugler (1985, QM3 / SS)** shares a humorous memory of painting topside with black paint and oatmeal, leading to Navy tests and a white boat upon port arrival.
**John Kutcher (1975, SN/SS)** expresses pride in being a submariner and the great bunch of guys who helped him get qualified.
**Harold Leamey (1966, TM2)** recalls coming aboard as a seaman, making one run on the Blue Crew, going to the shipyard, and making a run on the Gold Crew before transferring to 'C' school.
**Duncan McKeith (1963, MM2)** checked onboard just after commissioning, made six patrols, qualified in submarines, and reenlisted for six years.
**Mike McMinn (1970, MMC(SS))** remembers the great times, several patrols out of Rota, the Newport News overhaul, and making chief, as well as Mike Wallace and 60 Minutes riding along.
**Guy Mendenhall (1982, CAPT)** describes operating from Holy Loch, UK, on deterrent patrols, torpedo certifications, and pre-overhaul preparations with port visits in Plymouth, UK, Groton, CT, and Charleston, SC.
**Loy Miller (1974, MMC - MM2)** had two tours on board, from 1974-78 and 1983-85, and cherishes the memories and lasting friendships from his 25-year career.
**Don Mittelstaedt (1976, ELECTRICAL)** had a wonderful career thanks to the great people who worked for him and would appreciate hearing from them.
**Mark Monk (1982, ET1(SS))** honors the memory of Phil Dow, ETC (SS), a good friend and man.
**Tom Morgan (1977, MM2(SS))** fondly remembers the exceptional ship and crew, and the fish and chips on Church Street.
**George Murray (1963, MT2)** reported during PSA at Groton, rode to Charleston for loadout, and made seven Blue patrols, including the MCC flood.
**Kevin Myers (1989, ET 3 /SS)** recalls his first of two subs, the boat being in Bremerton, WA, and the great times visiting Seattle, Florida, and Scotland.
**Glenn Nordell (1962, MM1)**, a Plank Owner, made seven patrols on Gold and found a great job with the Power Company in Minneapolis after his service.
**Michael Novak (1971, MM1 (SS))** had a great time on board and would like to hear from other shipmates.
**Robert Novgrod (1970, E-3)** shares a memory of his father bringing him onboard as a child and invites stories from those who knew him.
**Dale Parker (1982, MT2)** would like to hear from old crew members and is active on Facebook and LinkedIn.
**John Parker (1978, RMCS(SS) USN (RET))** recalls his time as an RM2 onboard, listing several shipmates and the camaraderie among the radiogang.
**Bill Preece (1962, MM3[SS])** enjoyed his time on the boats, coming from the Gater Navy, and wouldn't trade the experience for anything.
**Rudy Randolph (1962, CS3(SS))** worked for Richard Bock CSC(SS), was a Blue Crew plank owner, and made the first three patrols before reenlisting for diesel boats.
**Carl Richardson (1985, FTB2/SS)** served under LPO FTBC/SS Horn and Captain Cmdr Mendenhall III, and invites emails from former shipmates.
**Pablo Rodriguez (1986, RM2/SS)** describes serving on the Hambone as one of the most important times of his life, with a hot-running crew and a memorable XO and NAV.
**Robert Sarlin (1971, CAPTAIN MEDICAL CORPS USN)** had his first assignment with the regular Navy, finding it a fantastic experience with a great crew.
**Terrill Sarter (1966, STSSN - STS2(SS))** fondly remembers the Alexander Hamilton as his favorite boat and seeks to reconnect with former shipmates.
**Al Schoeff (1983, EM1/SS)** describes the hardest job he ever had but also the best people he ever knew, cherishing the experience despite its challenges.
**David Sealy (1977, QMC(SS))** recalls the great crew and remarkable friends, listing several shipmates and the camaraderie they shared.
**Shayne Seibert (1991, ET3/SS)** joined the combined crew when the boat was taken to Bangor SubBase, enjoying good times and playing Pirates of the Pacific.
**Carl Sellars (1977, IC 2)** asks if anyone remembers the G-crew IC1 forward type who was medivaced by helo after getting his elbow crushed by a watertight hatch.
**Dave Shirley (1985, ET2/SS)** cherishes the time on the Hamilton, the great people, and the experience, including a memorable med cruise and evading the USS Cappodanno.
**Gary Sievers (1966, TM2 (SS))** recalls the great boat, good memories, and buddies, and the many speedy nights serving meals to great guys.
**Dave Strickland (1980)** describes the Hamilton as a great but tired boat, full of history, and fondly remembers earning his Dolphins and becoming a Blue Nose.
**Bill Thibault (1980, ET1(SS))** enjoyed serving with most people but found the long sea deployments tough, appreciating the experience in hindsight.
**Stan Tribble (1979, MT2/SS)** has many memories of the old A-Frog and encourages others to search for crew lists on various websites.
**Larry Trowbridge (1977, STS2 SS)** served with the Blue Crew in sonar and weapons division, cherishing the memories and the honor of serving with Chief McCann.
**Robert Vandevender II (1982, MM1(SS))** recalls his first patrol, receiving his dolphins from Cmdr Marcus V. Friedman, and enjoying Blue Nose night.
**Michael Vineyard (1976, ENS TO LT)** regards earning his Dolphins as one of the top accomplishments of his life and cherishes the great times on the A-Frog.
**David Viola (1985, EM2/SS)** is proud to have served with a great bunch of shipmates, taking the boat through the Panama Canal on the way to Bremerton for refueling.
**James Wells (1964, FTG2 (SS))** made five patrols starting with the second Blue Crew patrol and retired as an FTGC (SS).
**Jeff Wheeler (1982, TM1)** recalls good times with shipmates, being medically retired from the Army, and invites contact from former crew members.
**David Willemot (1987, IC1)** describes his second stint on the A. Ham, the challenges in the yards in Bremerton, and the memorable experiences.
**Tom Williamson (1976, QM3(SS))** made two patrols from Holy Loch and one from Charleston, earning his Bluenose on the third patrol, and remembers many shipmates.
**Stephen Wood (1971, IC 1 (SS))** recalls Mike McMinn and the visit from Mike Wallace, and invites contact from former shipmates.
These memories collectively highlight the unique experiences, challenges, and camaraderie that defined life aboard the USS Alexander Hamilton (SSBN-617). From humorous anecdotes and significant milestones to the deep bonds formed among shipmates, these recollections offer a glimpse into the rich history and enduring legacy of this remarkable submarine and its crew.
USS Alexander Hamilton SSBN-617: A Legacy of Silent Strength and Strategic Evolution
Upgrades, Mission Capabilities and Fleet Contribution
The USS Alexander Hamilton (SSBN 617) went through upgrades during its operational lifespan to ensure it stayed ahead in naval technology and strategic deterrence. Initially put into service in 1963 the submarine belonged to the Ethan Allen class, which was the submarine class specifically built to carry missiles from scratch. Over time, the vessel received improvements such, as advanced sonar systems, better navigation equipment and upgraded missile launch systems. These enhancements played a role in keeping the submarine ready for operations and prolonging its service life enabling it to adjust to changing threats and mission needs.
Armed with Polaris A 2 initially and later with Polaris A 3 missiles the submarine had the capacity to launch warheads at targets located thousands of miles away. With its extended range and capability to stay submerged for periods it served as a deterrent, against potential adversaries.
The stealth and long lasting capabilities of the submarine enabled it to conduct patrols without being detected serving as a deterrent, at sea that was a part of the United States nuclear defense strategy in addition to land based missiles and strategic bombers.
The USS Alexander Hamilton made contributions to the fleet. Apart from its role in deterrence the submarine also took part in various training exercises and fleet operations boosting the overall preparedness and effectiveness of the U.S. Navy. Its presence in the fleet offered a platform for testing technologies and tactics contributing to the advancement of future classes of ballistic missile submarines. The experiences gained from its missions and data gathered during patrols were instrumental in refining the Navys strategies for warfare and strategic deterrence.
The USS Alexander Hamilton played a role in promoting stability during a time of heightened geopolitical tensions. By maintaining a second-strike capability, the submarine helped prevent nuclear conflicts and reassured U.S. Allies of Americas dedication to their defense. Its operational achievements and technological progress set a benchmark for missile submarines ensuring that the U.S. Navy retained its leading position in undersea warfare.
The enduring impact of the USS Alexander Hamilton serves as an example of how ongoing innovation and thinking strategy play vital roles in safeguarding our nation's security.
Silent Sentinel: The Storied Voyages and Valor of USS Alexander Hamilton SSBN-617
Deployments, Role, in Major Conflicts, Awards and Commendations
The Cold War era was characterized by heightened tension between the United States and the Soviet Union. Serving as a missile submarine in the fleet its main duty was deterrence to ensure that the US maintained a strong second-strike capability. Throughout its tenure the USS Alexander Hamilton conducted deterrence patrols lasting months each remaining submerged and undetected while being prepared to launch its Polaris missiles if needed. These patrols were vital in upholding the balance of power and averting the risk of conflict.
the USS Alexander Hamilton was also engaged in operations that highlighted its strategic value. Before its commissioning during the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962 it underscored the necessity for a robust fleet of ballistic missile submarines. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s it continued to operate as a guardian beneath the sea surface contributing to NATOs collective security endeavors and taking part in naval drills aimed at bolstering allied forces readiness and cooperation.
The commendable service of USS Alexander Hamilton did not go unnoticed.
She was honored with awards and recognition, for her leadership and the proficiency of her crew. These included the Navy Unit Commendation and the Meritorious Unit Commendation, which highlighted the performance of her team during demanding and prolonged missions. The submarine received Battle Efficiency "E" awards showcasing its performance in fleet competitions and assessments. These honors reflected the dedication and expertise of both officers and enlisted personnel who upheld top notch readiness and professionalism.
Over thirty years of service the USS Alexander Hamilton demonstrated the role played by the United States ballistic missile submarine fleet. Its missions were vital to defense strategy serving as a deterrent against potential threats. The accolades it garnered serve as a lasting tribute to its contributions to security and the unwavering dedication of its crew. As a part of the Navys "41 for Freedom" initiative the legacy of USS Alexander Hamilton continues to stand as a symbol of strength and vigilance during an era, in modern history.
USS Alexander Hamilton SSBN-617 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Lafayette Class Ballistic Missile Submarine |
| Commissioned | June 27, 1963 |
| Displacement | 8,250 tons |
| Length | 425 feet |
| Beam | 33 feet |
| Draft | 32 feet |
| Speed | 20+ knots |
| Complement | 138 |