Sailors assigned to USS Henry M. Jackson (SSBN 730) (Gold) and their families gathered at Naval Base Kitsap
Trident Lakes Recreation Park May 2 for a command picnic as part of the crew’s achievement of being DUI
free for more than 730 days.
The purpose of the command picnic was a reward to the crew for having no violations involving driving under
the influence (DUI) for the past two years.
“It’s remarkable to see the crew reach more than 730 days of being DUI free,” said Commanding Officer, Capt.
Dan Arensmeyer, Henry M. Jackson (Gold). “We try to find different ways to reward the crew by putting together
a command picnic and once a quarter we will give Sailors a command holiday.”
The event was sponsored by the Fleet and Family Readiness Group (FFRG) and recreation committee.
Command Master Chief (SS) Joe Fahrney said if Sailors find themselves in a bad situation they know they have
alternate ways to get home and people they can depend on.
Service members got a chance to enjoy a grilled barbeque meal and a friendly competition of softball between
khakis versus enlisted.
“This picnic is a way to thank the crew for reaching this milestone,” said Lt. Cmdr. Anthony Moore, executive officer.
“Drinking and driving ruins lives and careers and we really made an emphasis to be responsible and provide the tools,
such as safe ride cards.”
Jackson leadership puts out the word about the “Safe Ride” program and also designed their own command safe ride
card called “Think,” which lists phone numbers to taxi companies affiliated with the Safe Ride program.
A lot of Henry M. Jackson chiefs also have made their own phone numbers available if a Sailor needs a way home.
According to Lt. j.g. Brandon Rathke, not only did the Sailors themselves make the right choices, their leadership
supported them every step of the way.
“Command leadership pushes everyone to use the Safe Ride program and to always have a plan,” said Rathke.
“We all stick together to make the right decisions and to make good choices.
For Chief Electronics Technician (SS) Colman Racey, the picnic was a way for the whole command to commemorate
a positive accomplishment.
“It’s amazing to be part of a great crew because this was an effort made by everyone to take care of each other when
they are on liberty,” said Racey. “The picnic really brings the command and their families together. Our commanding
officer is really big on recognizing the crew for their accomplishment.”