“I joined the Navy because I wanted the honor of service and to know that I was giving my all to protect our way of life,” said Knepper. “Also, submarines are really, really cool.”

Knepper attended Ringold High School and graduated in 2005. Additionally, Knepper earned a Bachelor of Science in Industrial and Systems Engineering in 2009 from the Georgia Institute of Technology.

Skills and values similar to those found in Ringgold are similar to those required to succeed in the military.

“My hometown taught me to never forget how hard some people work to make a living for their family and that those people deserve everything we can do for them,” said Knepper.

These lessons have helped Knepper while serving in the Navy.

Known as America’s “Apex Predators!,” 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, in furtherance of U.S. national security.

There are three basic types of submarines: fast-attack submarines (SSN), ballistic-missile submarines (SSBN) and guided-missile submarines (SSGN).

Fast-attack submarines are designed to hunt down and destroy enemy submarines and surface ships; strike targets ashore with cruise missiles; carry and deliver Navy SEALs; conduct intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions; and engage in mine warfare. The Virginia-class SSN is the most advanced submarine in the world today. It combines stealth and payload capability to meet Combatant Commanders’ demands in this era of strategic competition.

The Navy’s ballistic-missile submarines, often referred to as “boomers,” serve as a strategic deterrent by providing an undetectable platform for submarine-launched ballistic missiles. SSBNs are designed specifically for stealth, extended patrols and the precise delivery of missiles. The Columbia-class SSBN will be the largest, most capable and most advanced submarine produced by the U.S. – replacing the current Ohio-class ballistic-missile submarines to ensure continuous sea-based strategic deterrence into the 2080s.

Guided-missile submarines provide the Navy with unprecedented strike and special operation mission capabilities from a stealthy, clandestine platform. Each SSGN is capable of carrying 154 Tomahawk cruise missiles, plus a complement of heavyweight torpedoes to be fired through four torpedo tubes.

“Our mission remains timeless – to provide our fellow citizens with nothing less than the very best Navy: fully combat ready at all times, focused on warfighting excellence, and committed to superior leadership at every single level,” said Adm. Mike Gilday, Chief of Naval Operations. “This is our calling. And I cannot imagine a calling more worthy.”

Strategic deterrence is the Nation’s ultimate insurance program, according to Navy officials. As a member of the submarine force, Knepper is part of a rich history of the U.S. Navy’s most versatile weapons platform, capable of taking the fight to the enemy in the defense of America and its allies.

“Serving in the Navy means Knepper 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.”

“The Navy protects commerce and seas lane and ensures free movement of people and goods,” said Knepper. “We are a maritime nation so it’s our job to make sure that our way of life is protected.”

With 90 percent of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to trained sailors and a strong Navy.

Knepper and the sailors they serve with have many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during their military service.

“I am proud of the first submarine I served on winning a prestigious fleet award,” said Knepper. “The amount of work and passion that went into making that ship what it was was truly incredible. The sailors serving aboard that sub deserve every award.”

As a member of the Navy, Knepper is part of a world-class organization focused on maintaining maritime dominance, strengthening partnerships, increasing competitive warfighting capabilities and sustaining combat-ready forces in support of the National Defense Strategy.“Serving in the Navy means working hard, knowing that each day, my shipmates and I get to keep American’s safe,” added Knepper. “Not every day is super fun on a submarine, but every day is worth it to know that my two sons back home are safe.”