AMSEcast Geoff deBeauclair
From AMSEcast by American Museum of Science and Energy
April 8, 2026 · 37 min
About this episode
The episode features Geoffrey deBeauclair discussing his experiences in the Navy's Nuclear Power Program and the role of Oak Ridge in America's nuclear navy.
AMSEcast launches a new series exploring America's nuclear navy and Oak Ridge's vital role in its history and future. From helping shape the legacy of Admiral Hyman G. Rickover to supplying nuclear fuel for today's fleet, Oak Ridge has long stood at the center of U.S. naval nuclear power. As the American Museum of Science and Energy prepares a new exhibit at the Wilcox K-25 Interpretive Center, this episode sets the stage. Our inaugural guest, Geoffrey deBeauclair , is a graduate of the United States Naval Academy and a 30-year Navy veteran who commanded a ballistic missile submarine and later led the Newport Division of the Naval Undersea Warfare Center. He shares his journey into the Navy's Nuclear Power Program, the demanding training and qualification process, and what it means to command a submarine at sea. Geoff offers a rare look inside daily life underwater, from relentless drills and rotating watch schedules to crew traditions, leadership challenges, and staying connected with family during long patrols. It's a compelling introduction to the people, discipline, and mission behind America's nuclear navy.
People in this episode
Guest: Geoffrey deBeauclair
Topics covered
- nuclear navy
- Oak Ridge
- submarine command
- naval history
- military training
- leadership challenges
Keywords
- nuclear power
- submarine
- military
- naval history
- training
- leadership
- Oak Ridge
- Admiral Rickover
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: American Museum of Science and Energy
Places: Oak Ridge, United States Naval Academy, Newport Division of the Naval Undersea Warfare Center
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