Benjamin Mooney of Auburn graduated with honors from the Navy’s nuclear power school in July. He received a 3.76 overall grade point average, ranking 10th in a class of 231.

On Nov. 21 Petty Officer Mooney was promoted to the rank of machinist mate second class during training aboard the MTS-635, formerly the USS Sam Rayburn, moored in Charleston, S.C. Upon completion of training he was selected into an officer accession program.

Mooney will attend the Naval Science Institute in Newport, R.I., for eight weeks then go to New York City where he will attend the State University of New York’s Maritime College, majoring in mechanical engineering. After completing his degree he will be commissioned as an ensign in the Navy.