Nebraska graduate speaks at alma mater
By MC1(SW) Cynthia Clark
COMSUBPAC Public Affairs

Release Date: 02/04/2008

LINCOLN, Nebraska – Commander, Submarine Force U.S. Pacific Fleet (COMSUBPAC) Rear Admiral Douglas McAneny, spoke to the University of Nebraska Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) unit Thursday, Feb. 4.

McAneny, in the area after a visit to the U.S. Strategic Command in Omaha, Neb., took the time to address the midshipmen of the NROTC unit, which he was a member of before graduating in 1978 with a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering.

“As a force and a Navy we strive to ensure we maintain the most highly-trained, motivated and dedicated Sailors anywhere,” McAneny told the midshipmen.  “This is where you come in.  As our submarine and surface crews continue this tradition of excellence, the leadership qualities, teamwork and communication skills you hone during your time here as a midshipmen at the University of Nebraska will be essential to the development of young Sailors and the future of our Navy.”

With the Navy’s announcement last summer to focus on NROTC scholarships in engineering, math and science fields, skills paramount for the submarine force, McAneny’s visit is important not only for the future of the midshipmen, but the Navy as well.

“As a staff, one of our top priorities is to get our midshipmen excited about their future service within the Department of the Navy,” said Lt. Sean Flanagan, University of Nebraska assistant professor of Naval science.  “A visit from COMSUBPAC really helps in that regard, particularly in one of the most landlocked of states.  We are very fortunate to have one of Nebraska’s own involved in the development of our future naval officers; ones that will soon be representing Nebraska in the Navy and Marine Corps.”

As a junior officer, McAneny served as division officer on board USS Trepang (SSN 674), engineer on board USS Tunny (SSN 682); continuing on to serve as executive officer of USS Drum (SSN 677) and commanding officer of USS Philadelphia (SSN 690).  Prior to serving as COMSUBPAC, McAneny was the 40th Commander, Submarine Group 7, Yokosuka, Japan.