Groton — Eighty-nine sailors of "Class 16460" USS Houston (SSN 713) graduated from Basic Enlisted Submarine School on Oct. 14.

Seaman An Nguyen was class honor graduate and will continue in basic mechanical skills training.

Seaman Melvin Venema received the Navy Core Values Award for best exemplifying the standards and expectations of a U.S. Navy sailor. Venema continues in apprentice team training.

Seaman Ryan O'Callaghan was recipient of the Submarine Heritage Award. O'Callaghan also continues training in basic mechanical skills.

Seaman Jacob Davidson, Seaman Stephen Bayer, Seaman Edward Hidalgo, Seaman Chase Carter, Seaman Raheem Lee, Seaman Christopher Martin, Seaman Joseph Lee, Seaman Javier Castro, Seaman David Beatty, Chief Petty Officer Thelma Ruiz, Seaman Anthony Foster, Seaman Matthew Fusselbaugh, Seaman Robert Evans, Seaman Joel Gil, Seaman Dan Curry, Jr., and Seaman Vantha Boonthavong joined Seaman Bradley Tendler 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.