The Navy today identified Machinist Mate 3rd Class Michael A. Gentile, of Fairfield, Maine, as the sailor who was killed in "an apparent accident" Saturday on board the ballistic missile submarine USS Nebraska as it operated near O'ahu.

The Naval Safety Center reported that Gentile died after becoming entangled and pinned in the rudder ram aboard the Nebraska during cleaning.

Gentile, 21, joined the Navy in July of 2005. He had been assigned to the Nebraska since Nov. 15, 2006. Gentile had previously served on USS Alaska.

Gentile was part of the "blue crew" on the Nebraska, which has two crews that take turns manning the submarine.

"Our sincerest condolences and prayers continue to go out to the family and friends of Petty Officer Gentile," the Navy said in a release. Memorial service plans are pending.