I was a Submariner in the U.S. Navy in the 1980's and 1990's. The Cold War was in full swing back then.

It is striking to me sometimes to imagine just how much the world has changed since then. Growing up in the 70's and 80's, there was constant tension between the Soviet Union and the United States. I think many (if not most) Americans felt that a World War was coming. The only question was what event would finally trigger it.

I enlisted in the Navy in 1985 - volunteering for Submarine duty right away. I was an Auxiliaryman (responsible for atmosphere control equipment and hydraulic systems) aboard the Fast Attack Submarine "USS Narwhal - SSN 671". My additional duties included driving the submarine as a Helmsman.

I was a young man, just out of highschool. People might be surprised to know that the average age of a Submariner is around 20.

Life on a submarine has always included long hours, close quarters and vigorous training. The Cold War also meant covert missions in or near enemy waters. There were many tense expeditions when we were in close proximity to Soviet submarines and ships.

It was an exciting adventure for a young sailor like me but it was also very sobering at times. I loved the excitement of secret missions and covert operations at sea but I also feared possible death from battle or mechanical failure.

In the end the Soviet Union collapsed and we moved on to civilian occupations. For a while it seemed that the world would be a safer place.