On Nov. 5, two submarines from Naval Base Kitsap collided on the field of play for a friendly endeavor. Crewmembers from the USS Ohio (SSGN 726) and USS Columbus (SSN 762) got together for a cookout and friendly games of softball and touch football on the athletic field in Bremerton.

The fog and chilly weather didn’t keep the Sailors away as many of them embraced the day of fun.  “It’s a day to take a break from work and have some fun,” said Machinist’s Mate 2nd Class (SS) Jason Lehrmann, USS Columbus. 

When Columbus made her way to the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard two months ago from Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, Ohio was her sponsor ship.  Since their arrival, the crews of Columbus and Ohio have become acquainted on numerous occasions, but Command Master Chief (SS) Glenn Jenne, Chief of the Boat (COB), USS Columbus, said a day like this is just what was needed to initiate more camaraderie.

“The crews get along great,” Jenne said. “Most of these [Columbus crewmembers] have never been out of Hawaii, so it’s nice that they can get out and enjoy the great Pacific Northwest weather.” Jenne added that Ohio has been a superb host for his crew.

While the Sailors enjoyed hamburgers and hot dogs with all the fixin’s, others participated in a game of touch football, which sometimes got a bit more physical that just touch. When the crewmembers were done with the football game and had some lunch, the crews joined together for a khaki’s versus blue shirt’s game.

“This is a great opportunity...for the two crews to get out of the typical shipyard routine,” said Cmdr. Mike Ryan, commanding officer, USS Columbus. “In all, it’s been a great transition to the Northwest. The naval community and the civilians here have welcomed us with open arms.”

The purpose of the day was not only to have fun, but to get the crews the chance to get away from the working reality the shipyard brings.  As CMDCM (SS) Larry Hamon, COB, USS Ohio, said, the sports day was friendly competition that brought people together. “Seeing the two crews building a single team is what a day like this is for.”

The USS Columbus is currently docked at PSNS for Depot Modernization Period (DMP), scheduled for 13 months. “If you have to be in a shipyard, Puget Sound Naval Shipyard is the one to be in,” said Ryan.