USS New Hampshire Receives 2012 Battle 'E' Award

GROTON, Conn. (NNS) -- The Virginia class fast-attack submarine USS New Hampshire (SSN 778) received the 2012 Battle Efficiency or Battle 'E' award during a pier-side award ceremony following morning colors at Naval Submarine Base New London (SUBASE), Mar. 29.

One submarine from each submarine squadron in the Atlantic Fleet is annually recognized with the award for demonstrating the highest level of battle readiness during the evaluation year.

USS New Hampshire is assigned to Submarine Squadron 4 (SUBRON4).

Capt. Mike Holland, commander of SUBRON-4, presented a plaque signifying the ship's achievement to Commanding Officer Cmdr. Sean Fujimoto before the assembled crew. This is the second consecutive Battle 'E' award the ship has received.

"You guys are doing a great job," said Holland. "The fact that this is your second Battle 'E' award speaks volumes; this boat continues to lead by example on the waterfront."

Fujimoto praised the New Hampshire crew.

"This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the crew," said Fujimoto. "Their steady strain to accomplish the mission was recognized and I'm proud of them."

Commander Submarine Force Atlantic (COMSUBLANT) announced the winners of the 2012 Battle 'E' competition in January.

The Los Angeles class fast-attack submarine USS Toledo from DEVRON 12 at SUBASE was recently recognized as a Battle 'E' recipient in February.

For more news from Naval Submarine Base New London, visit www.navy.mil/local/subasenlon/.