Sailors from USS Kentucky (SSBN 737 Gold) team received awards at the Chapel on Naval Base Kitsap, at Bangor during a ceremony Feb. 17.

The ceremony began with a short speech by Cmdr. Jeffrey Coran, commanding officer of Kentucky Gold.

“The success of our mission on this deployment is a testament to both the design of the ship and the training of the crew,” said Coran. “We were able to leave on time, complete our mission and get back home.”

After the speech, more than 80 awards were given to Sailors. Awards presented included Good Conduct ribbons, Global War on Terrorism medals and Navy-Marine Corps Achievement medals.

Among those receiving awards was Electronics Technician 3rd Class (SS) Zach Cooley who received his submarine (enlisted) pin from his father CMDCM (SS) Robert Cooley during the ceremony. Cooley was one of several Kentucky Sailors to receive more than one award. 

He also received a citation for qualifying for his pin far ahead of schedule.

“This is the highest point of my career,” said the senior Cooley. “When I got my pin in 1980 I never thought I would put it on my son. His brother put the pin on before he did. He (Zach) is the third one in the family to wear it.”

Kentucky recognized more than 70 Sailors throughout the ceremony.

“As a newly reporting Chief of the Boat (COB), I’m very proud of the hard work and dedication put forth by the Sailors on board,” said Senior Chief Machinist’s Mate (SS) Richard Calden. “Each and every one of them deserves the recognition.”