Submitted by American Connections Media Outreach
NAVAL BASE GUAM – Before the ocean swallows the light and the hatch seals shut, every submariner carries one thing below the surface — their story.
For Petty Officer 3rd Class Daniel Thompson, a native of Tijeras, New Mexico, serving as a machinist’s mate (auxiliary), that story began in the halls of East Mountain High School, sparked by a desire to carry on a proud family tradition.
“Both my grandfather and uncle served in the Navy,” Thompson said. “I wanted to follow in their footsteps and make them proud.”
Today, that dream is a reality aboard USS Springfield, a Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine forward-deployed to Guam.
From his hometown in the mountains to the depths of the Pacific Ocean, Thompson’s path has been shaped by constant change — and the ability to adapt and thrive.
“I was always moving growing up, and things were always changing,” he said. “Learning to accept change early on helped me succeed in the Navy. It taught me how to adjust, stay focused and get the job done.”
That same flexibility and determination now drive his work beneath the sea. Serving on Guam, Thompson is part of a forward-deployed force that plays a key role in maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific.
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.
As a machinist’s mate (auxiliary) aboard Springfield, Thompson is responsible for operating and maintaining a wide range of mechanical systems that support the submarine’s daily operations.
“My proudest moment so far in the Navy is qualifying in submarines,” he said. “That qualification means I’ve proven I have the knowledge to support my shipmates in any situation — even during a casualty. It shows I’m someone they can rely on.”
Thompson’s story isn’t just about equipment and endurance — it’s about the people who believed in him and helped him grow along the way.
“I’d like to thank my parents and grandparents for always looking out for me,” Thompson said. “Their support has meant the world.”
Looking back, Thompson hopes his story helps others take that first step toward something bigger — something life-changing.
“Serving in the Navy has been a deeply fulfilling experience,” Thompson added. “It’s shown me — and hopefully others — that you can accomplish anything if you put your mind to it.”