KINGS BAY, GA (WHTC-AM/FM, June 13, 2023) – Submariners make up only 10 percent of the U.S. Navy’s personnel, but they play a critical role in carrying out one of the Defense Department’s most important missions: strategic deterrence. Lt. j.g. Katherine Hoekstra, a native of Holland, Michigan, is one of the sailors continuing a 123-year tradition of service under the sea to help ensure Americans’ safety.
Hoekstra joined the Navy three years ago and today serves aboard USS Florida. “I joined the Navy because I thought it would be challenging mentally, physically and academically,” said Hoekstra. “My parents demonstrated service and how it’s important to them and their faith. Serving in the Navy was one way that I could serve my country and my community.”
With more than 90 percent of all trade traveling by sea, and 95 percent of the world’s international phone and internet traffic carried through fiber optic cables lying on the ocean floor, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity and security of the United States is directly linked to a strong and ready Navy.
