Cuthbert native serving at King’s Bay Naval base

KINGS BAY — A 2013 Randolph-Clay High School graduate and Cuthbert native is serving aboard the homeport for U.S. Atlantic Fleet’s ballistic missile nuclear submarines.

Petty Officer 3rd Class Shyheim Foster, a master-at-arms, is responsible for making sure the laws are followed and, if necessary, enforced.

“The best part of my job is getting the chance to interact with people on a daily basis and having the opportunity to have a positive influence on their day,” Foster said.

The mission at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay is to provide support to the fleet, fighter and family, according to Navy officials. It is the state-of-the-art home to the Atlantic Fleet’s Trident submarines and serves as an integral part of the nation’s strategic deterrence program.

The Navy’s ballistic missile submarines, often referred to as “boomers,” serve as undetectable launch platforms for ballistic missiles. They are designed specifically for stealth, extended patrols and the precise delivery of missiles. They are the only survivable leg of the nation’s strategic nuclear forces, which also include land-based missiles and aircraft. The Ohio-class design allows the submarines to operate for 15 or more years between major overhauls.

Foster and other sailors know they are part of a legacy supporting the Navy’s most advanced submarines.

“We demand the highest standards from our sailors — both professionally and personally,” said Rear Adm. Randy Crites, commander, Submarine Group 10 in Kings Bay. “Their chain of command, family and our great nation take immense pride in their devotion and service. These sailors are absolutely crucial to ensuring our ships and submarines are operating at their best — always mission ready — providing our nation with the greatest Navy the world has ever known. I’m so very proud these sailors are on our team.”

“I like the responsibility the Navy has entrusted in me to protect its nuclear assets,” Foster said.

Foster said he is learning about leadership and managing multiple responsibilities while serving in the Navy.

“Serving in the Navy made me grow up pretty quick and helped me become a more independent person,” he said.