Petty Officer 3rd Class Mason France
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 Mason France, a native of Chattanooga serving as a machinist’s mate (nuclear), that story began in the halls of East Hamilton High School, sparked by a family legacy and a desire to serve.
“I joined the Navy to follow in my family’s footsteps,” France said. “My grandfather was a U.S. Army helicopter pilot, and my father was a submarine mechanic. After 9/11, I knew I wanted to carry on that legacy and carve out my own path.”
Today, that dream is a reality aboard USS Springfield, a Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine forward-deployed to Guam.
From his hometown to a submarine cruising silent and deep beneath the Pacific, France’s journey has always been grounded in grit and a sense of purpose.
“Growing up in Chattanooga, I worked in construction, which taught me the value of a strong work ethic,” France said. “That mindset — showing up every day and giving your best — has helped me succeed in the Navy.”
That same determination now fuels his work beneath the sea. Serving on Guam, France is part of what stands as a vital outpost in the Western Pacific, supporting a free and open Indo-Pacific through its strategic role in undersea operations.
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 (nuclear) on Springfield, France plays a critical role in maintaining the submarine’s propulsion systems and supporting safe operations under pressure.
“I’m proud of graduating from Nuclear Power School and all the other training that’s helped me grow as a machinist mate,” France said. “But more than that, I’m proud of being able to help my shipmates every day — that’s what really matters to me.”
France’s story isn’t only about machinery and mission — it’s about the people who helped him get here. From early mentors to lifelong friends, his success is built on the encouragement and belief of those who stood beside him.
“I’d like to thank my mom and dad for their support throughout this journey,” France said. “I wouldn’t be where I am today without them.”
Looking back, France hopes his story inspires someone else — someone who might be looking for direction, purpose, or a new beginning.
“Serving in the Navy means everything to me,” France added. “It’s given me the chance to grow, to challenge myself, and to protect the people I love back home. That’s what drives me.”