Two local submarines won the 2012 Battle Efficiency competition Jan. 1.

One submarine from each squadron in the Atlantic Fleet is recognized every year, with the Battle “E” presented to the submarine crew that demonstrated the highest level of battle readiness during the evaluation year.

“The award symbolizes the overall readiness of the command to carry out its assigned wartime tasks as a unit of the Atlantic Submarine Force. The competition for these honors, as always, is extremely keen. They should be a source of great pride to each and every crew member,” said Vice Adm. Michael J. Connor, commander of the submarine force.

The winners are: USS New Hampshire (SSN 778), of Submarine Squadron 4, commanded during the competition by Cmdr. John McGunnigle, and USS Toledo (SSN 769), of Submarine Development Squadron 12, commanded by Cmdr. Sam Geiger.