LOUISVILLE, Ky. — A Louisville native is playing a critical role in supporting the U.S. Navy in its underwater strategic deterrence operations. Petty Officer 1st Class Terrence Loeser is a logistics specialist with Commander, Submarine Group 10.

According to the Navy, only 10% of the U.S. Navy’s personnel are submariners. They said submariners like Loeser take part in a 123-year tradition of service under the sea.

“I’ve always had a sense of duty and desire to serve my country,” said Loeser, who joined the Navy seven years ago. “I also wanted to use the free educational opportunities that the Navy offers. So, I took advantage of the tuition assistance and earned my Bachelor of Science in Management.”Growing up in Louisville, Loeser attended the Academy @ Shawnee and graduated in 2014. 

Petty Officer 1st Class Terrence Loeser is a Louisville native and graduated from the Academy @ Shawnee in 20214. (Navy Office of Community Outreach)

Loeser said the skills and values he learned in Louisville are similar to those required to succeed in the military. “I learned in Louisville to have a conversation and not a confrontation,” said Loeser. “This has been a beneficial tool for me in my Navy career.”

The Navy’s submarine force operates a large fleet of technically advanced vessels. These submarines are capable of conducting rapid defensive and offensive operations around the world.

Serving in the Navy means Loeser is part of a team that is taking on new importance in America’s focus on strengthening alliances, modernizing capabilities, increasing capacities and maintaining military readiness in support of the National Defense Strategy.

“We provide a blanket of freedom that deters our adversaries,” said Loeser. “We guard our coastline and other countries’ coastlines by providing protection against enemies.”

According to the Navy, 90% of global commerce travels by sea and internet access relies on the security of undersea fiber optic cables. This makes their mission of deterrence even more important for the prosperity of the U.S. they said.

Loeser has advanced through the ranks over the years and said he was proud of what he has accomplished. He also has hopes of advancing even further as he provides for his family.

“Serving in the Navy means really good job security,” said Loeser. “Also, the Navy provides excellent benefits for me and my family. My hope is to become a naval officer one day.”

Loeser has a twin brother who also serves in the Navy. He is a Petty Officer 2nd Class and joined the military just before Loeser.