Cadet Heshun Xiao '26 Receives Silent Service Award for Distinguished Achievement in STEM Disciplines

During Missouri Military Academy’s Mother’s Day Review on May 10, 2026, Cadet Heshun Xiao was presented with the Silent Service Award for Distinguished Achievement in STEM Disciplines by members of the USS Springfield Base of the United States Submarine Veterans.

The award recognizes exceptional achievement, leadership and promise in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Presenting the award on behalf of the USS Springfield Base were Missile Technician First Class (Submarines) James Bettison, U.S. Navy (Ret), base commander and MMA math instructor; Captain Dan Farson, U.S. Navy (Ret), vice commander; and Fire Control Technician First Class (Submarines) Jim Bauer, U.S. Navy (Ret), base treasurer.

The award reflects the values shared by both the United States Submarine Force and Missouri Military Academy, including discipline, precision, innovation and perseverance.

In an official letter presented to Cadet Xiao, the USS Springfield Base commended his “dedication to academic excellence, intellectual curiosity, and commitment to high standards,” stating that his accomplishments “reflect great credit upon yourself and Missouri Military Academy.”

The letter further recognized Cadet Xiao’s leadership and character, noting that his achievements embody “the superior ideals and standards of the United States Submarine Force: discipline, precision, innovation, and quiet professionalism.”

The Silent Service Award is presented to cadets who demonstrate outstanding performance and leadership in STEM disciplines while upholding the values of integrity, accountability and service.

A member of MMA’s Class of 2026, Cadet Xiao plans to attend The Ohio State University and study mechanical engineering. He is from Troy, Michigan.

The USS Springfield Base of the United States Submarine Veterans is a local chapter, or “base,” of United States Submarine Veterans, Inc., located in St. Louis, Missouri. Like all USSVI bases, it is a fraternal organization for veterans who qualified in submarines and served honorably in the U.S. Navy Submarine Service.

The base is named after the USS Springfield (SSN-761), a Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine that honors the cities of Springfield, Illinois, and Springfield, Massachusetts.

Missouri Military Academy congratulates Cadet Xiao on this well-deserved honor and thanks the USS Springfield Base of the United States Submarine Veterans for their continued support of cadet achievement and leadership development.