Actually, I did 24 years and retired 12 years ago. I've been underway on a carrier, TAD, I've been underway on an LA class sub but my sea duty was on MCM's. 220 feet of wood with a fiberglass sheathing. Max speed of 14 knots.
As far the other comments, yes he went outside the chain of command.
Yes, it is wrong.
But, having lived and breathed Navy Blue and Gold, I can tell you he likely felt he had no choice.
Some CO's put the safety and welfare of their troops at the very top.
Whats life like in a Sub I would imagine it would have the worst conditions since you can go on deck like a ship. Captain farts and you have to deal with it for weeks on end ?