Groton — Seventy-one sailors of "Class 15440" USS North Dakota (SSN-784) graduated from Basic Enlisted Submarine School on Oct. 2.

Seaman Mark Gonzalez was both class honorman with a 97.45 GPA and recipient of the Submarine Heritage Award. Gonzalez continues in Apprentice Team Training, ATT.

Seaman Adarion Walker received the Navy Core Values Award for best exemplifying the standards and expectations of a U.S. Navy sailor.

Fireman Recruit Michael Phillips was meritoriously advanced for his academic performance and will continue in Basic Mechanical Skills, BMS, training.

Fireman Apprentice Jonathan Clavijo, Seaman Chance Bruce, Seaman Apprentice Paul Perry, Seaman Apprentice Andrew Pezley, Fireman Chace Gilmore, Seaman Juvencio Perez, Fireman Julian Acosta, Seaman Matthew Caldwell, and Fireman Richard Brooks joined Phillips as graduates with distinction.

Basic Enlisted Submarine School is a six-week introduction to the basic theory, construction and operation of nuclear powered submarines. In preparation for an assignment, sailors receive instruction on shipboard organization, submarine safety and escape procedures.