Miss Hawaii visits USS Hawaii

Machinist's Mate 2nd Class (SS/DV) Kevin Dillon of the Virginia-class, fast attack submarine USS Hawaii (SSN 776) explains some basic submarine operations to the reigning Miss Hawaii, Lauren Nicole Kealohilani Cheape, during a tour of the submarine May 16. Cheape toured USS Hawaii, dined, and took photos with the crew while on board her title namesake submarine.

Commander Submarine Force U.S. Pacific Fleet Public Affairs Office

The reigning Miss Hawaii visited the Virginia-class, fast attack submarine USS Hawaii (SSN 776) May 16 to show her support of her title namesake submarine at the submarine piers at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam.

During the tour, Lauren Nicole Kealohilani Cheape had the opportunity to learn about daily submarine operations, dined with the crew on the mess decks, took photos with the crew and signed autographs.

“It is an extreme honor to visit our namesake submarine, and I am very grateful for what the Sailors do to protect our nation on a daily basis,” said Cheape. “I have never been on a submarine before. I did not realize the amount of skill it takes to operate one and the amount of knowledge and pride of all the crew. It is truly an experience of a lifetime.”

The crew of Hawaii was excited about having Cheape visit their submarine.

“I think it is great to have Miss Hawaii to take time out of her schedule and tour the submarine that she represents,” said Machinist’s Mate 2nd Class (SS/DV) Kevin Dillon. “It was a real privilege meeting her and showing her what we do. I am glad she had a good time, and I hope she considers visiting us again.”

Cheape, a native of Mililani and a graduate of the University of Hawaii at Manoa with a bachelor of arts in film production, is the 63rd Miss Hawaii and will hold the title until the next competition that will be held in June.