The Los Angeles class fast-attack submarine USS Norfolk (SSN 714) departed Naval Station Norfolk's Pier 3 Dec. 28, beginning a regularly scheduled six-month independent deployment. Norfolk will deploy to the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility. Cmdr. Troy Jackson, Norfolk's commanding officer, said his crew is ready for every mission they are given. "The crew is fired up and ready to go," said Jackson. "They've worked very hard over the past several months. They've put in a lot of hard work and effort. We've also received a lot of support from our parent squadron (Commander Submarine Squadron 6), our maintenance organization, and we also received a lot of support during our recent stay in Groton. Norfolk is deploying independently, without a carrier or expeditionary strike group.