CABLE CONNECTION
5K For Women’s Equality Day By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Gabrielle Joyner, USS Frank Cable (AS 40) Public Affairs
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he crew of the submarine tender USS Frank Cable (AS 40) ran a 5k in honor of women’s equality day on Polaris Point, Guam, August 30. According to Chief Select Master at Arms Natalie Dymond, the run was dedicated to the females who have paved the way for equality of women in the United States Navy. “There are several key personnel that have paved the way for women in the Navy, as commanders of ships, in carrier strike groups and also as pilots,” said Dymond. “Today we pay special tribute to Lt. Britta Christianson, the supply officer of the guided-missile submarine USS Ohio (SSGN 726).” Christianson is the first woman to qualify as a Submarine Warfare Officer, while serving alongside men as part of the crew. Yeoman 3rd Class Heidi Odom, who is assigned to Frank Cable and participated in the 5k, said that she was inspired by Christianson. “Christianson accomplished something that no other woman in the Navy had achieved before,” said Odom. “I’m inspired to continue to move forward in my career and strive to complete a similar qualification on the ship, the enlisted surface warfare pin.” Odom said she surprised herself at the 5k when she blazed past the finish line beating the goal she set. “I was impressed that I placed where I did during the run,” said Odom. “I am going to continue to motivate myself and help others in need that work alongside me on this ship to imitate the strength that Christianson showed.” Dymond advises women in the Navy to keep up and remain strong, especially now more than ever. “I’m pulling my own weight right next to the guys as the only female in the phase two chief select process,” said Dymond. “Women can’t use their gender as a crutch; there are endless opportunities for women joining the Navy right now to work for.”
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