To avoid detection, submarines normally maintain radio silence, but "familygrams" help Submariners stay connected with home.
During the height of the Cold War, communications between ship and shore were extremely limited for security reasons. Periodically, submarines received a single message called a "familygram" with family news for all Crew members. Each family had space for only a few words, and it was strictly one-way; no one on board was allowed to respond. Nowadays, when operations permit, e-mail may provide some relief for families, but long separations remains one of the hardships of submarine life.
We've invited our generous Contributors to send a "DonorGram" to the Crew of the USS District of Columbia.
Here is a selection of messages we have received for the Crew of USS District of Columbia so far.
To the brave men and women of the USS District of Columbia, on behalf of everyone at Marotta Controls, we extend our deepest gratitude for your dedication and service to our nation. Wishing you a safe and successful journey.
