Robert S. Patterson, a 2007 graduate of Blacksburg High School, graduated from basic training at Great Lake Naval Recruit Training Center, Great Lakes, Ill., on Aug. 31, 2007.

Patterson During his eight weeks at the training center, Patterson underwent extensive physical and classroom training. Upon graduation, he will be stationed in Pensacola, Fla., where he will receive training in aviation ordinance.

Patterson is the grandson of Hayward and Margaret Patterson of Blacksburg and son of Scott and Amy Patterson of Cherryville, N.C. His maternal great-grandmother, Katie Manning, also lives in Blacksburg.