14 Pages Vol. 16, No.8 May 2003

It's "Hats Off" to the Graduating Class of 2003Eighty-four seniors and two post graduates crossed the stage duringgraduation ceremonies held recently. TheMarine Military Academy's 38th commence-ment exercises took place on Saturday, May24, 2003, in the Philip J. Yeckel MemorialAuditorium. Chairman of the Board of Trustees ofthe Marine Military Academy, Mr. JamesE. Warren, Jr., CFP, Chief Executive Officerof Warren Financial Group, Inc. was se-lected this year to give the commencementspeech to over 85 proud cadets, their fami-lies and friends. "It is an honor today to have as ourspeaker for the class of 2003, Mr. Jim War-ren. He is a unique individual who has donemany great things with his life," statedMajGen Wayne E. Rollings, USMC (Ret),President of the Marine Military Academy,during his introduction of Mr. Warren. Mr. Warren is a highly decorated officerin the United States Marine Corps, servingin Vietnam in 1969-70. During his servicewith the USMC, he was awarded the SilverStar, Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Navy Com-

mendation Medal and two Meritorious Cita-tions. He has been a member of several Viet-nam Veterans Advisory Boards whose goalsare to assist Vietnam Veterans through em-ployment, education and other collective en-deavors. Professionally, Warren is a RegisteredPrincipal with Royal Alliance Associates,Inc., a broker-dealer in New York. Addition-ally, Mr. Warren is a graduate of the Collegefor Financial Planning in Denver, Colorado

and has attained theCertified Financial Plan-ner (CFP) designationas regulated by the In-ternational Board ofStandards and Prac-tices for Certified Finan-cial Planners.

In 1991, Mr. Warren was arecipient of the Who’s Who inAmerican Business Leadersnational award for his leader-ship and achievement in thebusiness community and thesignificant contributions hehas made for the betterment ofhis community. Currently, heserves as the Chairman of theKansas City Fellowship ofChristian Athletes Board ofDirectors, and assists the FCAin its estate planning andcharitable giving development

efforts on both the local and national lev-els. Speaking to a full house, Mr. Warrenfirst thanked the cadets "for allowing meto grow as Chairman of the Board." Hethen spoke directly to the parents and thegraduating cadets about "building a life"and "becoming a man." He shared withthem the values of the United States Ma-rine Corps, as well as the values of theMarine Military Academy - honor, cour-age, commitment. Mr. Warren urged the cadets to "be bet-ter than average" by having more determi-nation than the average person and to "grityour teeth and dig in a little deeper." Healso stated that to rise above the commonplane of living, "you need a little more faiththan the average person. Each of us needsthat faith which will light any path, relieveany distress, bring joy out of sorrow, peaceout of strife and friendship out of loneli-ness." He added that you also will need "alittle more love than the average person.

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V A L E D I C T O R I A NMichael Bajsel receiveshis diploma from Mr.James Warren, Jr. dur-ing the 38th graduationceremony.

MR. JAMES E. Warren, Chairman of the Board of Trustees atMMA speaks to the seniors during Commencement Excerises.

MMA LEADERPublished by the

MMA PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICE320 Iwo Jima Blvd.

Harlingen, Tx. 78550(956) 423-6006, ext. 235

Web Site http://www.mma-tx.orgEmail address: farris@mma-tx.org

PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICERRobin Ewbank Farris

PAO SECRETARYConnie G. Flores

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The Annual Fund helps bridge thegap between tuition revenue and theactual cost of the operating budget.Sources for this fund are the dona-tions received from friends of theAcademy. These gifts provide theextras that are so important in thelife of cadets.

H I K EHiring and retaining the best forcadet educationIncreasing opportunities forscholarshipsKeeping an aesthetic living andlearning environmentEquipping the Academy with themost up-to-date resources

Academy Says "Semper Fi" to Gunnery Sergeant Larry WisnoskiMuch Loved "Gunny Ski" re-membered at Memorial Service.

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Love has hands to help others. It has feet tohasten to the poor and needy. Each of uscan go beyond ourselves to care about thosein need. If we do that, in love, we are farbeyond being average." After Warren closed, certificates of comple-tion were handed out to the cadets. Thefirst cadet to cross the stage was Valedicto-rian, Michael Alexander Bajsel, with a cu-mulative GPA of 4.11, followed by the Salu-tatorian, Creighton Alexander Rea. Hegraduates with a cumulative GPA of 3.86. Bajsel, a 4-year cadet from Houston,Texas, will be attending Texas A&M Univer-sity - College Station in the fall where heplans on majoring in Biomedical Science. Heis the son of Mr. Walter and Dr. CorinnaBajsel. When asked about MMA, Michaelstated, "MMA has helped me improve my

Close family and friends gathered recently to pay their final respects to a dedicated and

loyal member of the Marine Military Academyfamily, at a memorial service held in the Col PhilipJ. Yeckel Memorial Auditorium. Gunnery Sergeant Larry L. Wisnoski passedaway on May 15, 2003 in Harlingen, Texas, aftera courageous and long battle with cancer. After graduating from Cypress Fairbanks HighSchool in 1953, "Gunny Ski" enlisted in theUnited States Marine Corps. He served for 20years, retiring with Honorable Service. In 1979, Wisnoski joined the staff at theMarine Military Academy. He was Operations

Chief his first year at theAcademy, then became aDrill Instructor for sevenyears. The remainder of hisyears at the Academy was asOperations Chief and Direc-tor of Alumni Affairs. He received numerousawards during his time in theMarine Corps. He receivedthe Purple Heart, CombatAction Ribbon, ArmedForces Expeditionary Medal,Vietnam Campaign Medal,Vietnam Cross for Gallantry and the Good Con-duct Medal. Gunnery Sergeant Wisnoski is preceded indeath by his father, Theodore Stafford, and hisson, Christian Eric Wisnoski. He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Isabel;daughters Norma (Nasser) Zangebar Sabegh andLisette (Alex) Rosales; son Stefan (Migum)Wisnoski. At the Memorial service, friends and familymembers had an opportunity to share fond memo-ries and thoughts of Gunny Ski. Class of '81 CWO Levi Noguess, USA, spokeof Gunny Ski as a "father figure" to him. GunnySki stepped in and filled the role as his father ,whohad passed away shortly before he enrolled in theAcademy. Using Gunny Ski's own guitar, Noguessplayed several of Ski's favorite songs as a tributeto a much-loved man. Dear friend and fellow co-worker, SgtMaj W.E.Steigerwald, USMC (Ret) gave a beautiful and

touching eulogy about Gunny Ski. "Ski wasMMA’s voice at parades and ceremonies. He’dinject humor when ever and wherever fitting, "remembered Steigerwald. "He'd set up the cannonthat was fired at parades as well as the PA system.He extolled and exhibited those many virtuesattributed to Marines to the highest degree. Bookscould be written about Ski on how he operated andthe thousands of fond and funny memories ofwhat he said and what he did." Steigerwald added, "the third stanza of theMarines’ Hymn, bottom four lines reads: 'If theArmy and the Navy, Ever look on heaven’sscenes, They will find the streets are guarded by,The United States Marines.' Gunny Ski is up therewith those Marines - guarding the streets onheaven’s scenes." Gunny Ski touched so many lives - boys,young men, and all whom he came in touch with.He will be missed.Semper Fi, Gunny Ski.

study habits and made me more organizedand respectful toward adults." Rea, son of Dr. and Mrs. R. Lynn Rea ofDallas, Texas, will also be attending TexasA&M University - College Station. He re-ceived an NROTC scholarship and will be-come a member of the Corps of Cadets. Heplans on majoring in Mechanical Engineer-ing."MMA improved my study habits, motiva-tion and made me more adept to accept chal-lenges life and college present. It has alsomade me more aware of my surroundings andintroduced me to many new and interestingpeople." The Academy extends its sincerestcongratulations to the graduating classof 2003 and their families. Good luck inthe future.

MMA Boy Scout Troop Completes Another Busy Year

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Boy Scout Troop 22 at the MarineMilitary Academy, under the

direction of Mr. Steve Gerber, has beenvery busy this year. Throughout the school year, 328 meritbadges were earned and there were 87rank advancements. The troop alsoparticipated in nine weekend campingtrips and held over 30 weekly troopmeetings. According to Mr. Gerber, thescoutmaster, over 2,000 man-hours ofservice was done during Eagle projectsand other community service activitiessupported by MMA's Troop 22. The troopprovided several color guards as well. With the help and support of manyindividuals, the troop was able to conductspecial programs to help boys earn Law,Rifle Shooting, Indian Lore, Swimming,Shotgun Shooting, First Aid and LifesavingMerit Badges this year. "The troop is grateful for the specialsupport received from Col Glenn Hill, SgtMajFord Kinsley, SgtMaj Jim Poe, LtCol EdLewis, Dr. John Butler, SgtMaj David Miller,parents Rob Bowen and Ted Behrens andMr. Trey Smith," stated Mr. Steve Gerber."Each of these men actively participatedthroughout the year to make the Scoutingprogram possible at MMA." This May, six members of the MarineMilitary Academy’s Boy Scout Troop 22

SCOUTMASTERStever Gerber re-ceived the Scoutmas-ters Award of Meritduring the last Courtof Honor.

stood proudly with their parents as theyreceived their Eagle Scout badges during aceremony held in Philip Yeckel MemorialAuditorium. Cadets Andrew Aristizabal, TysonBasora, Jason Merriam, Alberto Pina,Jared Spencer and Justin Stanton allcompleted rigorous and demandingrequirements, as well as a community serviceproject, in order to receive this most honoredbadge. Mr. Gerber praised these six scouts ontheir dedication and commitment to

scouting, and notedthat they were amongthe elite few who evercomplete their EagleScout badge. Henoted that only threepercent of scouts everreach this level. AndrewAristizabal, son ofHaydee Varela,painted and repairedover 100 picnic tablesin three differentHarlingen city parks.Aristizabal, a senior,will be attendingR e n s s e l e a r

Polytechnic Institute and plans to major inMechanical Engineering. Junior Alberto Pina renovated and re-roofed a large gazebo at Harlingen'sRangerville Park. In addition to working onhis Eagle Scout Badge, Pina served on theBattalion Staff as the Cadet Sergeant Major.He also played varsity football and varsitybasketball. Pina, from San Antonio, is theson of Mr. and Mrs. Alberto B. Pina. Three outdoor classrooms were built onthe Marine Military Academy's "Back 40" tosupport the climbing and rappelling towercomplex, the COPE Course and the obstaclecourse. These were built and coordinatedby scouts Tyson Basora, Kostas Lazanasand Justin Stanton. These classrooms willprovide a covered and shaded area toreceive instructions before using the differentcourses. Additionally, a bridge to the "Back 40"was constructed by Jared Spencer. Thebridge, built over a drainage ditch, will givecadets, summer campers and vehicles a moredirect access to the various courses behindthe campus. Jared will be attending theUnited States Naval Academy and is the sonof Mr. and Mrs. Lucius Clay Spencer, III ofNew Orleans, Louisiana. MMA also benefited from the hard workand long hours of planning by Scout JasonMerriam of Freemont, California. Merriamhelped to develop the MMA paintball courseand its new storage building. Jason will beattending Embry-Riddle AeronauticalUniversity in Dayton Beach, Florida. He isthe son of Mr. and Mrs. Alan Merriam.

Cadet CornerFifth-Year Cadets Awarded

Planks During Senior BanquetP

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David Andrew MackieHarlingen, Texas

Torrey Isa MirowDallas, Texas

MMA AlumniOutstanding

Cadet Selected

Jared Spencer received the MMA Alumni Out-standing Cadet Award for 2003 from CraigMatteson, Class of '79 and MMA Board Trusteeduring the Senior Banquet .

The Plankholder Award is presented to MMA cadets whohave completed all of the grades offered at the Academy,which are eight through 12.

1st Annual MMA Talent Show

(1) Heng Chen played a classical piece on thepiano. (2) Gangshan Shi shows off his athleticability by demonstrating Kung Fu moves cho-reographed to music. (3) The Village Peoplemade an appearance during the 1st Annual Tal-ent Show. The performers were (l-r) MatthewParker, Daniel Newman, Nicholas Lang, ColinEdwards and Justin Meaders. Each of the aboveacts was selected as a winner and received a$100.00 gift certificate.

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And the winners are:

Each month a cadet is selected from each company, from the band and from the drill team, to be recognized for their outstand-ing attitude, conduct and performance. Below are the selections for April with a comment from their Drill Instructor or activitycoordinator.

“Those selected are to be commended for their outstanding performance.” - Col James Gillis, USMC (Ret) Commandant of Cadets

Cadets ofCadets ofCadets ofCadets ofCadets of the Month f the Month f the Month f the Month f the Month for or or or or AAAAAprilprilprilprilpril

Alpha CompanyADAM HALLETT HARRIS

Eighth - Fort Lauder-dale, FL

- 1st Sgt Bruce McPeters,USMC (Ret)

Charlie CompanyJASON PAUL

HILLERFreshman - Anaheim, CA

“Cadet Hiller is a motivated,mature first-year cadet. He isdedicated to excellence in allendeavors and will continue

to excel at MMA.” - SgtMaj AlSzczepek, USMC (Ret)

Delta CompanyMATAN MAORDECHAIBEN-DAVIDSophomore -Houston, TX“ Cadet Ben-David is the mostimproved cadet in DeltaCompany. His renewedmotivation and participation inthe company has made animpressive impact on the moraleof his platoon.” - SgtMaj LarryCarson, USMC (Ret)

Echo CompanyJOSE OSCAR GUERREROSenior - Matamoras, TX

- GySgt Kosta Maravelias,USMC (Ret)

Fox CompanyTHOMAS JONATHAN

CARROLLSophomore - Gig Harbor, WA“This cadet has come a long

way. He is dedicated to hisduties and responsibilities. Hegets along with his peers and Icould use three more cadets of

this caliber, then I could resteasy.” - 1stSgt Alvin Thomas,

USMC (Ret)

Golf CompanyANDREW JOHN NOVAK

Freshman - Phoenix, AZ“This cadet has a bright future

here at MMA and I have enjoyedhaving him in my company. He

will go far in life and at MMA. Heis a great and motivated youngman..” - SgtMaj Albert Wilson,

USMC (Ret)

Bandsmen - SeniorsALAN HOLT -(left) Hurst, TxMICHAEL CORREA - Chicago, IL“These two fine cadetshave both earned thisaward through theirhard work and endlessdedication to theband.” - CWO3 EdHarris, USMC (Ret)

Drill Team/Color GuardGUILLERMOLIMONSophmore -San Ysidro,CA" He is the mostimproved inall areas.” -GySgt KostasMaravelias,USMC (Ret) 5

"This cadet has donean excellent job as theCompany ExecutiveOfficer. It is a pleasureto have him in mycompany."

“This cadet has displayedoutstanding study habits and

conduct in and out of thebarracks. He has shown a levelof maturity and professionalism

that is noteworthy for his ageand grade level.”

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The following selections were made by thePresident of the Academy, based on recom-mendations by the Military DepartmentAwards Board.

Marine Military Academy President'sAwardAwarded to the senior cadet who has dem-onstrated outstanding leadership ability,excellence in scholastic achievement, hasactively participated in extra-curricular ac-tivities, and who, in all respects, best per-sonifies the most outstanding cadet .

Cadet Col Diego S. Medina

Marine Military Academy Comman-dant of Cadet's AwardAwarded to the junior cadet who has dem-onstrated the most outstanding leadershipability; excellence in scholastic achieve-ment, active participation in extra-curricu-lar activities and who best personifies theunderclass cadet with the most potentialfor a leadership role in the next academicyear.

Cadet SgtMaj Alberto B. Pina

American Legion Bronze Medal forScholastic ExcellenceAwarded to the senior cadet who hasachieved scholastic excellence in all aca-demic courses, to include JROTC subjects.The cadet must have demonstrated quali-ties of leadership and actively participatedin student activities such as student orga-nizations, constructive activities or sports.

Cadet Capt Brian K. Brickles

American Legion Bronze Medal for Mili-tary ExcellenceAwarded to a member of the senior class whohas maintained an excellent academic standing,including all JROTC subjects, and who hasdemonstrated outstanding qualities in militaryleadership, discipline, character and citizen-ship.

Cadet LtCol Michael L. Altiere

Daughters of American Revolution AwardAwarded to a cadet with an excellent academicrecord, who has demonstrated dependabilityand good character, adherence to military dis-cipline, leadership ability and a fundamentaland patriotic understanding of the importanceof JROTC training.

Cadet 1stLt Michael C. Correa

Veterans of Foreign Wars AwardAwarded to the cadet who has shown the mostoverall improvement in academic and militarystanding during the current school year.

Cadet GySgt Matthew L. Burns

Senior Marine Instructors AwardAwarded to a cadet who distinguishes himselfthrough superior performance and outstand-ing proficiency and achievement in all facetsof the MCJROTC program.

Cadet Capt Aaron Rodriquez

National Sojourners Americanism - Jun-ior AwardAwarded to a member of the junior class, whohas demonstrated by his actions and attitude,outstanding patriotism and Americanism, aswell as noteworthy leadership within theCorps of Cadets.

Cadet 1stSgt Bannon L. Lomahquahu

National Society Daughters of Foundersand Patriots AwardAwarded to a member of the sophomore classwho has demonstrated by his actions andattitude, outstanding patriotism and Ameri-canism, as well as noteworthy leadershipwithin the Corps of Cadets.

Cadet Sgt Omeed M. Ghaffarian

Semper Fidelis AwardAwarded to a first-year cadet who has beenfaithful to his school; displayed selfless andsteadfast spirit and devotion to theMCJROTC program, as well as the schooland its activities; maintained excellent aca-demic achievements; and demonstrated out-standing citizenship habits.

Cadet SSgt John W. Rusham

JOSE MIGUEL Garcia-Campos was presented with the Association of Military Schoolsand Colleges of the United States Award by Col R. Glenn Hill, USMC (Ret), Chief ofStaff at the Marine Military Academy. This award is given to the cadet whodemonstrated to a high degree, the combination of academic and military excellenceand leadership potential.

CADET COL Diego Medina receives the prestigious President's MMA Award from Mr.James E. Warren, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Marine Military Academy.Medina served as the Cadet Battalion Commander this year.

CADET SGTMAJ Alberto Pina (below) receives this year's Comman-dant of Cadets Award from Col James Gillis, USMC (Ret), Commandantof Cadets.

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Reserve Officers Association AwardAwarded to a first-year cadet who has demon-strated an outstanding combination of military,academic and athletic achievements during theacademic year.

Cadet SSgt Ahmed M. Safy El Din

Association of Military Schools and Collegesof the United States AwardAwarded to a cadet who has demonstrated to ahigh degree, the combination of academic andmilitary excellence and leadership potential.

Cadet Capt Jose M. Garcia-Campos

American Defense Preparedness AssociationAwardAwarded to a member of the senior class whodistinguished himself through superior perfor-mance in the "Leadership Education" phase of theMCJROTC curriculum, and through outstandingproficiency and achievement in all other facets ofthe MCJROTC program.

Cadet Capt Bryan A. Zurlo

The Retired Officers Association AwardAwarded to a member of the junior class who is inthe top ten percent of his class, has an "A" inmilitary science, holds a staff noncommissionedofficer billet with the capability and expectationof being promoted to a cadet officer rank in hissenior year.

Cadet SSgt Christopher M. Boyls-White

National Rifle Association Club Champion-ship AwardAwarded to a cadet for excellence in marksman-ship as a member of the General Vernon E. MegeeRifle Club. This award can only be received once.

Cadet Sgt Hiroyoshi J. Ohara

The Weisenberger Distinguished Marksman-ship TrophyAwarded to the outstanding overall shooter on theMMA Varsity Rifle Team.

Cadet LCpl Jonathan R. Hood

John Philip Sousa Music AwardAwarded in to a cadet who has demonstratedoutstanding achievement and interest in instru-mental music, singular merit in loyalty and coop-eration, and who has displayed those high quali-ties of conduct that school instrumental musicrequires.

Cadet GySgt Aubrey H. Snider

Colonel H.Wm. Card Jr., USMC (Retired)Inspirational Leadership AwardAwarded to the graduating cadet officer who bestpersonifies the qualities of honor, integrity, re-sponsibility and loyalty to subordinates so essen-tial to effective leadership.

Cadet Capt Jared B. Spencer

Society of Colonial Wars AwardAwarded to a member of the senior class who hasthe intent, desire and best chance of becoming acareer commissioned officer in the United StatesMarine Corps. This is a cadet who we believe willactively endeavor to perpetuate those sound prin-ciples and patriotism so evident in our earlypatriots.

Cadet Capt Joseph W. Pollard, Jr.

The Military Order of the World Wars MedalAwarded to the most-improved cadet in the unit,who has advanced both his military and scholasticgrades, and who has shown, by his achievements,a desire to serve the United States of America.

Cadet Sgt Joshua A. Gasaway

(ABOVE) AT THE Graduation Parade, Cadet Capt Joseph W.Pollard, Jr. was presented the Society of Colonial War Award byMr. Timothy Wheatley. This award is presented to a member ofthe senior class who has the intent, desire, and best chance ofbecoming a career commissioned officer in the United StatesMarine Corps.

MAJGEN WAYNERollings, USMC (Ret),and Mr. James E. Warrentake the pass in reviewduring the GraduationParade. This is the finalparade for the class of2003.

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The Women Marines Association MCJROTCAwardAwarded to the most outstanding second-yearMCJROTC cadet with excellent academic accom-plishment and citizenship, with the highest leader-ship education grades for his group.

Cadet GySgt Hang Li

The Third Marine Division AwardAwarded to a member of the senior class who hasdemonstrated an outstanding combination of mili-tary and academic achievement, given in the name ofthose who have served under the banner of the ThirdMarine Division.

Cadet 1stLt Alan R. Holt

The Texas Society, Sons of the American Revo-lution AwardAwarded to a cadet, 18 years of age or younger, whohas participated in school and community activi-ties, fulfills the qualities of honor, service andcourage, exhibits leadership ability, is patriotic,understands and appreciates his American heritageand the sacrifices necessary to gain and keep hisAmerican freedom; is in good standing militarily andacademically at the time of presentation of theaward.

Cadet SSgt Jeremiah A. Lowe

The Military Order of the Purple Heart AwardPresented to a cadet who has demonstrated anoutstanding degree of leadership potential and abil-ity.

Cadet 1stLt Andrew Aristizabal

The Noncommissioned Officers AssociationJROTC AwardAwarded cadet noncommissioned officer who hasconsistently exhibited the best military bearing,personal appearance, deportment and leadershipability for the current academic year.

Cadet Sgt Sean K. McCarver

The Paul Kelly Jordache Thomas MemorialAwardAwarded to a cadet who best exemplifies militarydiscipline and leadership abilities as cherished byPaul's father, First Sergeant Alvin K. Thomas,USMC, (Ret).

Cadet Sgt Farry A. Medina

Drill Instructor's AwardAwarded to a cadet, selected by his Drill Instructor, who is worthy of special recognition.Company ACompany CCompany DCompany ECompany FCompany G

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Cadet Cpl Kostas T. LazanasCadet Cpl Charles C. WulzCadet 1stLt Joseba A. MunozCadet 1stSgt Mark C. KettenhofenCadet 1stLt Fredrick W. LambuthCadet LCpl Clinton M. Behrens

TAWANI Charitable Foundation, Inc., selected Cadet Sgt Andrew J. Winney as"Best Overall." Presenting the award was Mr. Bill Hudson. A long-time supporterof the Academy, Mr. Hudson recently ran up Mount Suribachi on the island of IwoJima to honor the memory of those who fought in one of the bloodiest battles inthe history of the U.S. Marine Corps and to raise money for the Iwo Jima Museum,located on the Academy's campus.

DURING THEGraduationExcercises, Faculty,Staff and cadets paidtribute to Col FritzHastings, USA (Ret)for his many years ofdedicated service tothe Marine MilitaryAcademy. He wasnamed SocialStudies DepartmentChairman Emeritus.

TAWANI Charitable Foundation, IncorporatedAwarded to cadets in grades 9 through 12 who best exemplify the concept of the "CitizenSoldier" through academic achievement, physical fitness, community service andmilitary knowledge.9th Grade

Cadet LCpl David A. Miller10th Grade

Cadet Sgt Andrew J. Winney11th Grade

Cadet GySgt Aubrey H. Snider12th Grade

Cadet 1stLt Michael C. CorreaBest Overall

Cadet Sgt Andrew J. Winney

ACADEMIC AWARDSACADEMIC AWARDSACADEMIC AWARDSACADEMIC AWARDSACADEMIC AWARDS

SALUATORIAN CREIGHTON Rea, of Dallas, Texas (above) addressesthe graduating class of 2003 during commencement exercises.

Valedictorian PlaqueGiven to the graduating senior cadet who hasattended MMA the last three or more years, withthe highest grade point average.

Michael Bajsel

Salutatorian PlaqueGiven to the graduating senior cadet who hasattended MMA the last three or more years, withthe second highest grade point average.

Creighton Rea

Colonel Phil Yeckel, USMCR,Award for Athlete of the YearPresented to the graduating senior who has con-tributed the most to the athletic program of MMAand who has been enrolled at the academy for atleast two years. The name of this year's recipientwill be added to the plaque on a trophy perma-nently displayed at the Academy.

Adam Perry

USMC Scholastic Excellence AwardPresented to a cadet who has consistently distin-guished himself in the arena of academics andwhose personal traits of courage, poise, self-confidence and leadership serve as an example foryounger cadets.

Hang Li

USMC Distinguished Athlete AwardPresented to the junior athlete who is the best rolemodel for younger cadets, and who best exhibitsthe personal traits of courage, poise, self-confi-dence and leadership.

Bannon Lomahquahu

Dean's AwardPresented to the senior who, in the opinion of theDean, has demonstrated the most improvementscholastically, over the three or more years he hasattended MMA. His name will be added to aplaque permanently displayed in Coleman Hall.

Andrew Aristizabal

Mariner of the Year AwardPresented to an MMA mariner who has demon-strated exceptional leadership, seamanship andpersonal courage during marine science boatingactivities.

Geoffrey Bahlburg

Rolls-Royce Trophy for Excellencein AerospacePresented to the cadet who exhibits an outstandingdevotion to his aerospace studies.

Marcus Americus

Daughters of the American Revolu-tion Thomas Barlow Chapter Ameri-can History AwardPresented to the cadet who exhibits maximumeffort in his class in American History.

Ahmed Safy El Din

Rensselear Mathematics and Sci-ence AwardGiven by the Rensselear Polytechnic Institute tothe junior class cadet who is the most outstandingstudent in mathematics and science, and whodemonstrates the potential for success in scienceor a technologically oriented profession.

Aubrey Snider

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AUBREY SNIDER (below) receives the Rensselear Mathematicsand Science Award during the awards assembly. If Snider isaccepted and chooses to attend Rensselear Polytechnic Institute, hewill be awarded a $60,000 scholarship.

ADAM PERRY receives the Colonel Phil Yeckel, USMCR Award for Athlete of theYear from General Wayne E. Rollings, USMC (Ret), President of the Academy,during the Academic Award Assembly.

ACADEMIC AWARDSACADEMIC AWARDSACADEMIC AWARDSACADEMIC AWARDSACADEMIC AWARDS

Outstanding Boy Scout AwardsZachart BowenKostas Lazanas

Omeed GhaffarianAndrew Winney

Aubrey Snider

Golden Gloves AwardPresented to a member of the boxingteam who made Golden Gloves fourconsecutive years and to a cadet whohas always shown championshipqualities.

Joseba MunozMaclovio Yanez

MajGen Robert E. Friedrich AwardAwarded to a senior who has the mostoutstanding record in both academicsand military science.

Bannon Lomahquahu

Christopher Heard ScholarshipAwardPresented to a junior or senior cadetwho maintains at least a 3.0 GPA forone year and demonstrates character,leadership and esprit de corps.

Mark Kettenhoffen

Top Students in SubjectEnglish Ahmed Safy El DinMathematics Hang LiScience Aubrey SniderSocial Studies Jorge Zamora LegoffForeign Lang. Nicholas Cassidy

Van OuerkerkComputer Science Andrew Palomares

Top Students in ClassEighth Szymon CzerniakFreshman David MillerSophomore Jarod FaulkJunior Hang Li

U.S. Naval Academy AppointmentJared Spencer

U.S. Coast Guard Academy AppointmentCreighton Rea

U.S. Military Academy AppointmentTyler Freeze

Louis Harrington

U.S. Naval Academy Prep School Appoint-ment

Louis Harrington

U.S. Air Force Academy Prep School Ap-pointment

Louis Harrington

NROTC Scholarship, Marine OptionTyler Freeze

Louis HarringtonJared Spencer

NROTC Scholarship, Navy OptionAndrew Aristizabal

Jason MerriamCreighton Rea

Microsoft Office Specialist CertificateEarned by students who have demonstratedproficiency with database management.

Joseph ChemisJulio La TorreNathan NewellJoseph PollardCreighton ReaAubrey Snider

Steffen Woeckener10

US Marine Corps' "Semper Fidelis"Music Excellence AwardPresented to the cadet who has exhibited thepersonal traits of diligence, dedication andmusic excellence while performing as abandsman or soloist.

Alan Holt

Rotary Interact Club Scholarship AwardPresented to the cadet(s) who participated inRotary's Interact Club and who demonstratesexemplary performance as a member of the Corpsof Cadets.

Bannon LomahquahuDavid Mackie

National French Contest AwardsEarned by the highest-ranking students who par-ticipated in the 68th annual National French Con-test. They were also among the highest in theSouth Texas Chapter, thus are eligible to receiveFraternite pins.

Stephen PlainteAndrew Aristizabal

Wenceslao RomoAlbert Caskie

Marcos Americus

Nicholas CassidyVan Ouerkerk

French One -French Two -

French Three -French Four -

First Place - SouthTexas Chapter, LevelIII -(reserved for nativespeakers)

THE 2003Marine MilitaryAcademyseniors cel-ebrate gradua-tion with thetraditionaltossing of theircovers.

The Senior Class of 2003

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Austin Michael AitkenKeith Michael AllenMichael Lynn AltiereRafael Roberto AlvarezMiguel Mario AnciraXavier Cazares AndersonAndrew AristizabalJoshua Cody AshleyJoss Allen BadgerGeoffrey Carl BahlburgMichael Alexander BajselCesar Daniel BarbaEdward Michael BarreraTyson Hernandez BasoraBrian Keith BricklesSean Michael BurkeLuis Eduardo CardenasMiguel Adrian CardozoAlbert Alexander CaskieDaniel Lorenzo ConnorRyan Thomas ConwayMichael Christopher CorreaJan Salman CristobalEdward O’Neil Cullins, IILuis De La OJames Raymond DeckerKe DengColin Reed EdwardsHenry Forbes Elegar, Jr.James Maxwell EwtonRob Aaron FischerCorey Tyler FreezeJose Miguel Garcia-CamposJorge Armando Garcia-MalacaraRaul Gilberto GonzalezJose Oscar GuerreroLouis Bozman Harrington

Alan Ray HoltEvan Michael HowingtonDerek Matthew HuffineAlexander Blaine HutchinsonWilliam Robert KelleyJulio Cesar La TorreFredrick William LambuthNicholas John LangBrian Malone LawlerDavid Andrew MackieClayton Lee MaddoxJacob Andrew MayoDennis Mark McKennaJustin Cooper MeadersDiego Samuel MedinaJason Alan MerriamBradley James MillerTorrey Isa Mirow

Nicholas Barton Morgan-ArcherDavid Allen MullinsAitor Joseba MunozHector Hugo MurielNathan Robert NewellDaniel Morley NewmanMauricio OrantesCorey Charles OwenAndrew Cleveland PalomaresMichael Clinton ParkerJose Franco PerezAdam Darnell PerryDavid PhamJoseph Warren Pollard, Jr.Creighton Alexander ReaRodrigo Rivera RioAaron RodriguezArmando Ruiz

Howard Joshua RunkelSimon Gabriel SafirAhmed Mohamed Safy El DinAaron Glen SchriverThomas Blaine SharkeyMatthew Collin SorrellJared Bennett SpencerRobert Chase TrudeauZayed Emmanuel Valadez

EsparzaSteffen Douglas WoeckenerMaclovio YanezBryan Anthony Zurlo

Post GraduatesAlvaro Gibran Mendoza-

ZertucheChris Abraham Velasquez

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2002-2003 Eighth Grade GraduationAguilera, Alejandro Patricio

Nuevo Leon, MexicoAngel, Rafael Elias

Panama City, PanamaBehrens, Clinton Mathew

Mercedes, TexasBowen, Zachary Chandler

Harlingen, TexasBriggs, David Michael

Poway, CaliforniaBrosch, George Summers

Wichita Falls, TexasCarr, Evan Nello

Houston, TexasCollins, Daviss Wayne

Rowlett, TexasCzerniak, Szymon

Houston, TexasDarby, Craig Allen

Copley, OhioDe Santis, Craig Warner

Anaheim, CaliforniaFarrington, John Robert

Sunland, CaliforniaFlores, Eric

Houston, TexasFolmsbee, Eric Glenn

Washington, DCGamez, Randolph Cary

Corpus Christi, TexasGarland, Jonathan Bruce

Olathe, KansasGoodenough III, Phillips John

Elk Grove, California

Khalil, Ovais HasanTupelo, Mississippi

Latos, Christoffer GeorgeCoto de Caza, California

Leal, Americo AlejandroMcAllen, Texas

McFadden, Robert CarterKaty, Texas

Meyer, Preston QuintardDallas, Texas

Petrie, Ronald BrianTaunton, Massachusetts

Rountree, James William BeckKaty, Texas

Sanchez, Virgilio OlmosVeracruz, Mexico

Sylvest II, Ronald DaneBaton Rouge, Louisiana

Tanowitz, Jason JosephRichardson, Texas

Thacker, Jefferson GlasgowHarlingen, Texas

Troublefield, Brandon LeeNewport News, Virginia

Whittington, David CharlesCarollton, Texas

Wood, Harrison MichaelBryan, Texas

Wright, Colin ThomasSugarland, Texas

Goodloe IV, William HopsonMerritt Island, Florida

Han, TianboChina

Harris, Adam HallettFort Lauderdale, Florida

Hoff III, Fredrick CharlesNaperville, Illinois

Hogan, Thomas LeeCuernavaca, Mexico

Johnson, Gardner RawlsLake Oswego, Oregon

1STSGT BRUCE McPeters, Alpha Company Drill Instructor, looks over and checks theuniforms of his eighth graders before Eighth Grade Graduation.

SZYMON CZERNIAK received the "Top Student" award for having thehighest GPA in the eighth grade class.

A Tribute to Gunny Ski

Alumni News

’73Mark Graham - mark_graham@att.net"The Gunny and I polished brass together atthe last Alumni reunion I attended a few yearsback. Always cherished the pictures I tookof him (and WES and Gunny Morton, et al) in1981 before hurricane Allen."

Martin Johnson -MJohnson@dfwairport.com "I do wish Icould of been closer to the Valley to at leastgive this great Marine a final salute on hisway to heaven."

''82Steve Waugh - smwaugh@adelphia.net"I wish I could have made it down before hepassed. We are all less for his absence.Semper Fi.

Vince Morris - vincem@rileyindustrial.com"Semper Fi, Gunny Ski."

'83Major Michael D. Holmes - "I have been ona training exercise with my soldiers for thepast two weeks - I had just gotten here whenI got the news about Gunny Ski.For many reasons it hit me hard. Not the leastof which was because all I really wanted to dowas talk with people who knew him and lovedhim like I do. I don’t think I can say anythingmore than has already been written. He wasa great man whose presence really helped meat MMA. He was always there with a lop-sided grin and a positive word - even when hewas chewing you out. Gunny Ski never 'my'DI, he was everyone’s." signed: Michael D.Holmes Major, Military Intelligence S-2 (In-telligence), 53d Infantry Brigade (Separate)Florida Army National Guard.

'84Paul R. Wimberly - Alice Springs, Australia011-612-8953-3324PRWimberly@bigfoot.com "He will bemissed and the world will be a lesser placewith out him. I am sure everyone will all agreehe was like a father to us all while we wereaway from our families."

Maj Rick Jarlowe - JarloweRJ@mfr.usmc.mi"My deepest condolences. I’ll never forgetGy Ski, Coach Morton, and SgtMaj Gilmore.Those men will always be heroes in the eyesof the young boys who grew to be young menunder their unwavering eyes. God bless.Semper Fi.

Eduardo Sanchez - esanchez@eximinc.com"I would like to express my deepest sorrowfor Gy Ski’s departure. More so for the factthat I had been unaware of his condition allalong. Sgt Maj Steigerwald, you found all theright words to describe such quality of ahuman being. Gy Ski had such ability to makea stranger feel right at home. As a foreignstudent, during my time at MMA -back in theearly 80’s-, he made sure the path was set upso that everyone, regardless of race andcolor, would part from the same base. Wis-dom, charisma, empathy, loyalty, humble-ness, prudence, are only a few of the wordsthat would describe his noble heart and cou-rageous soul. His optimistic approach to lifemade him the role model so many peoplelearned to love and respect. He had suchability to sense that special quality everyonehas, but not many are aware of, and make ofit an individual asset. Gy Ski made me realizethe potential that was contained in me. Andhe never even needed to tell me “You can doit”. The look in his eyes gave me the assur-ance I needed to believe I could succeed.And I am sure so many experienced similarfeelings during their life as cadets under hisguidance. I arrived in MMA in the summer of’81for the ESL program, and I was fortunateenough to be in Gy Ski’s Echo Co. I came froma foreign country, barely spoke a word ofEnglish, and was as scared and insecure asanything. From the moment I met Gy Ski, weestablished a relationship based on trust andcommunication. There came a point when wedid not need to say a word to know exactlywhat was on each other’s mind. Years wentby and I was able achieve a number of impor-tant goals as a cadet. Not for a single momentdid I hesitate to think none of them wouldhave been possible without his presence. Hebecame an essential part of my life, and I cansay he had such an effect on it, that only aunique character like him could. All of us thatknew him are saddened because we no longerhave him among us, but in reality we must not

be, for it is not what he would want. We knowhe is in a better place than we are, and hislegacy will live on. What he taught usbecame an integral part of our existence fromday one. He made a better person of every-one that came in contact with him and hisphilosophy of life. I feel very proud to saythat Gy Ski was my friend, a man of honor, aperson who gave a new meaning to the wordleadership, a man who dedicated his entirelife to serve. I know God has a very specialplace for him. RESPECTFULLY.

'87David A. Herzberg, DPT ATC, CSCSDavedpt@aol.com - "I am so sorry for hispassing. He was a good man and a greatleader. I too, lost my father from cancer so Ican understand the sense of loss and trepi-dation, which has struck the heart of MMA.I would appreciate if you could pass on myregards to his entire family. He was a pivotalmember in the evolution, structure and char-acter of the school. He will be sorely missed.I appreciate your correspondence whetherthe news is good or bad. Thanks for keepingme well informed."

'88Mark Meaders - meaders@metronet.com"I will miss him. Gy Ski’s departure will leavea real void- none like him- he will be missed."

'89Carroll Conn - cwconn2@msn.com "CarrollConn and family send our condolences. I willnever forget how Gy Ski impacted the livesof my classmates & me. God bless."

To read more tributes aboutGunny Ski,

check out theAlumni Bulletin Board

If you are not signed up toaccess the

Bulletin Board,Contact Connie Flores at

(956) 423-6006 ext 232

Alumni:

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Memorials

June26 Summer Camp Cadet Instructors

Report29 Summer Camp ‘03 Registration

English as a Second Language‘03 Registration

July25 Field Day26 Summer Camp/ESL ‘03

Graduation

Calendar of Events August

3 Band/Drill Team CampFootball CampLeadership Orientation

9 Registration for First YearCadets

10-12 Military Orientation forPlebes

10 Check-in for returning cadets13 Classes begin

Mahoney Selected Again For Teacher of the YearThe Academy each

year selects a Teacherof the Year, who is pre-sented with a $1,000 checkand has his or her photoand name engraved on aplaque in Coleman Hall. For the third year in arow, the Corps of Cadetsselected, by way of secretballot, mathematics andphysics teacher MichaelMahoney. Mahoney, originally fromMissouri, joined the Navyin 1975, and spent four years working onaircraft electronics. He also spent six years inthe reserve.

TEACHER OF the Year for 2003 is Mr.Michael Mahoney.

Robert J. Caudill1stSgt Charles W. Doganes, USMC (Ret)Wallace Stanley FosterVernon E. JonesSgt Jim Lynk, USMCRCapt Preston S. Marchant, USMC (Ret)Maj W.T. Musgrove, USMCR (Ret)Franklin Lewis NemesRichard P. OvendenMelony PriceGySgt Larry L. Wisnoski, USMC (Ret)

In HonorOf

Robert A. Lutz

In HonorOf

Platoon 249 MCRD San Diego Summer of 1963

Upon his discharge from active duty,Mahoney joined Ball Aerospace SystemsDivision in Colorado as an engineering tech-

nician. He later received a degree in math-ematics education from Adams State Collegeand has taught math and physics at both thesecondary and college level. In addition to teaching, Mr. Mahoney willserve as the chaplain next year.