By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Sierra Garcia, Navy Public Affairs Support Element East
NORFOLK, VA. – Seaman Isabella Candelaria, a native of Ontario, California, serves aboard USS New Jersey, the U.S. Navy’s newest fast-attack submarine homeported in Norfolk, Virginia.
Candelaria attended Ontario High School and graduated in 2023.The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Ontario.
“I learned from my parents, Brenda and Clarence Candelaria, and family in general the importance of working hard,” said Candelaria.
Candelaria joined the Navy one year ago and today serves as a sonar technician (submarines).
“I joined the Navy because it felt like there were good benefits and the opportunity to do something different.,” said Candelaria. “I also wanted to be the first in my family to join.”
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.
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. New Jersey is the first Virginia-class submarine designed and built for a full gender-integrated crew.
With 90% 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.
Candelaria serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.
“We will earn and reinforce the trust and confidence of the American people every day,” said Adm. Lisa Franchetti, chief of naval operations. “Together we will deliver the Navy the nation needs.”
Candelaria has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My proudest accomplishment was finally finishing ‘A’ School and sub school,” said Candelaria. “I am also proud of completing my first underway on a submarine, which was two and half weeks.”
Candelaria can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Serving in the Navy means I get to do something that most people don’t do,” said Candelaria. “Being on a submarine is something not many people get to do so I think that’s cool.”
Candelaria is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I’d like to thank my family for always being there for me when I needed them and everyone else that I’ve met, including Angelica Ramos and Jan Gomez,” added Candelaria. “They endured ‘A’ School with me and supported me in a way that I needed, especially being out here alone.”