On November 1, 2020, the world said goodbye to an extraordinary man. He may not have been a war hero or a famous figure, but to me, he was both a hero and someone worth celebrating. His name was Jessie, and he was my grandfather.

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After serving in the United States Navy for twenty years, my grandfather retired. He didn't talk much about his time in the service because, by the time I was born, he had pursued theological studies, become a pastor, and moved away from his military life.

My grandfather preferred to focus on the present, but every once in a while, he would share a story from his Navy days, and I would listen eagerly.

He was involved in a special Navy project known as "Operation Sandblast," the military code name for the first submerged circumnavigation of the world. Serving as an Electrician Mate First Class, my grandfather was one of 188 officers and crew aboard the USS Triton during Operation Sandblast. This experience would later shape his career as a nuclear engineer.

In 2020, we commemorated the 60th anniversary of the USS Triton's historic trip around the world completely underwater. Before this mission, most submarines spent the majority of their operational time on the water's surface. Operation Sandblast demonstrated the viability of submarines operating completely submerged, thanks to the use of nuclear energy.

A nuclear-powered submarine did not rely on air for propulsion, and as submarines transitioned to nuclear power, a new generation of more streamlined submarines emerged.

These new submarines were not only visually appealing but also possessed hydrodynamic efficiency, enabling them to operate more quietly and travel three times faster than their predecessors underwater.

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Learning that my grandfather played a role in this incredible and pioneering advancement for the United States Navy fills me with pride. My grandpa directly contributed to a significant change in naval history.

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Veterans Day has always held a special place in my heart as a day to honor the service of my loved ones, but its significance has deepened following the loss of my grandpa. His impact on military history is something I will always remember and continue to share with the world.

LOOK: 100 years of American military history

103 iconic photos that capture 103 years of world history

Stacker gathered some of the most iconic images from the past 103 years, beginning in 1918 and leading up to 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Gallery Credit: Rachel Cavanaugh & Elizabeth Ciano

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