SKIPPER'S SUMMARY
Update from the CO
1st Quarter 2026
2025 was a remarkable year for the DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA crew, marked with momentous personal and team accomplishments, and with the promise of much more in 2026 and beyond. Over the course of this year, we have continued developing our understanding of this brand-new platform, which will underpin U.S. strategic deterrence into the 2080s. Our dedicated sailors have completed countless watchstation qualifications, enabling deeper system and operational understanding at all levels of the command, and ensuring the crew will be ready for each construction milestone. We have also continued building our strong partnership with the shipbuilders, and we look forward to supporting their incredible efforts to deliver this technological marvel to the Navy and the Nation.
With a wealth of talent and a commitment to support the Submarine Force's current operations, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA also provided sailors to more than ten submarines conducting real world operations. This provided opportunities for our sailors to test and grow their submarine skills, and ensured U.S. submarines were fully capable of executing their essential missions around the world.
In 2026 I expect much of this work to continue, even as our crew will more than double next year, with new arrivals at all levels of experience, and across all ratings. 2026 will be an exceptionally important year as we look towards major construction milestones and key testing events for this first of class submarine.
As we close 2025, we are grateful for the support of the Commissioning Committee and the entire District of Columbia. We are proud to display the District's flag on our uniforms and look forward to continuing to represent our Nation and its Capital in 2026.
CAPT Heath Johnmeyer
Commanding Officer
PCU District of Columbia (SSBN-826)
With a wealth of talent and a commitment to support the Submarine Force's current operations, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA also provided sailors to more than ten submarines conducting real world operations. This provided opportunities for our sailors to test and grow their submarine skills, and ensured U.S. submarines were fully capable of executing their essential missions around the world.
In 2026 I expect much of this work to continue, even as our crew will more than double next year, with new arrivals at all levels of experience, and across all ratings. 2026 will be an exceptionally important year as we look towards major construction milestones and key testing events for this first of class submarine.
As we close 2025, we are grateful for the support of the Commissioning Committee and the entire District of Columbia. We are proud to display the District's flag on our uniforms and look forward to continuing to represent our Nation and its Capital in 2026.
CAPT Heath Johnmeyer
Commanding Officer
PCU District of Columbia (SSBN-826)