16 Pages Vol. 20, No. 4 March 2007

MMA LeaderCurrent information for our Special Friends. Dedicated to our Cadets--Leaders of tomorrow.

CELEBRATING 41 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE

A FISCALLY-INFUSED WEEKEND

The Florence King Athletic Center tookon an air of elegance the evening ofFebruary 16th as Marine Military AcademyBoard of Trustees and Advisors, staff,faculty, Corps of Cadets, parents, family andfriends joined members of our nation’sbanking community to memorialize andhonor General H.M. Smith, longtime friendand benefactor of the Academy. A short timeprior to the 7 p.m. Dinner, Team MMArocketed in to high gear in preparation forthe annual event. The end resulttransformed the Athletic Center into amyriad of evening splendor--splashes of theAcademy’s crimson and gold theme colorsstood out against tables draped in whitelinen. The Academy Band entertained infine tune as the crowd mingled, until GeneralCheney’s warm welcome at 7:15 p.m. drewall to their numbered tables. “Mmmm,delicious!” was the standard response to thescrumptious fare provided by local catererMagnolia Grille. Throughout dinner, strainsof a string quartet played in the distance.

Cadets in attendance seized the uniqueopportunity to gain valuable perspective

into the worldof bankingand finance,d r a w i n gencouragingsmiles andr e s p o n s e sfrom bankingprofessionalss e a t e dthroughout.At the centertable dinnerconversationwas lively,ranging froman overviewof the FederalR e s e r v eBank’s role in

anticipating and addressing large-scalecyclical variations in national finance

MMA Corps of Cadets Battalion Commander Vincent Cervassi presents the Academy’sIwo Jima Leadership Award to Mr. Richard Fisher, President of the Federal ReserveBank of Dallas as MMA President BGen Steve Cheney, USMC (Ret) looks on.

The MARINE MILITARY ACADEMY develops disciplined, morally strong,college-ready young men who are prepared for responsible leadership.

trending by the Dinner’s keynote speakerMr. Richard Fisher, President of the FederalReserve Bank of Dallas, to the uniqueofferings and abundance of birding in theRio Grande Valley by birding enthusiastsBGen Cheney and his wife Roxanne. Asattention turned to desserts and coffee,General Cheney called forward the GeneralH.M. Smith Foundation inductees andseated them prominently in red leather, high-backed chairs. Inductees this year includeMrs. Jane Coleman of Greenville, SouthCarolina; Major Byron G. Genung,USMC(Ret) of Pensacola, Florida; Mr.David Meyer and Mrs. Karen Meyer ofDallas, Texas; Sergeant Major Albert S.Wilson, Jr. USMC(Ret) of Harlingen, Texas;Brigadier General John F. Kinney,USMC(Ret), in memoriam; and SergeantMajor David Miller, USMCR, of Harlingen,Texas. Each inductee receives a blazer withcrest and an engraved watch.

Business at hand then moved front andcenter to General Cheney’s introduction ofthe evening’s keynote speaker, Mr. RichardFisher, President of the Federal ReserveBank of Dallas - this year’s recipient of theAcademy’s Iwo Jima Leadership Award. Around of applause rang out as MMA Corpsof Cadets Battalion Commander VincentCervassi presented the Award to Mr. Fisher.National media, on hand to record Mr.Fisher’s remarks, quickly checkedmicrophones, feeds and assorted lineage inanticipation of what might or might not bepresented. For the next quarter of an hour,Mr. Fisher delivered an invigorating address,“Thank you, General Cheney. Our pathsfirst crossed in 1967, when we entered theNaval Academy as skinny little plebes. Wehad many things drilled into us that year,starting with every instructional quote froma book called ‘Reef Points’ that we had tocarry with us at all times. One quote wasthe John Paul Jones creed: An officer is a‘gentleman of liberal education, refined

“As accomplished anAmerican as you willever find, OprahWinfrey said it best:‘The big secret in lifeis that there is no bigsecret. Whateveryour goal, you can getthere if you’re willingto work.’”-Mr. Richard Fisher, Presidentof the Federal Reserve Bank ofDallas

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manners, punctilious courtesy and thenicest sense of personal honor.’ General,you left Annapolis and went on to adistinguished career as the prototypical,ideal officer in the Marine Corps, and youhave lived up to John Paul Jones’ creed inspades. I am proud of you for being such agood man. And I am proud and honored tohave been your classmate... I am gratefulto be here as your guest tonight at thisGeneral H. M. Smith Foundation Dinnerand very honored—and, frankly,surprised—to receive the Iwo JimaLeadership Award. I have a great staff atthe Dallas Fed, where 1,300 patriotic menand women work hard at all the things ourcentral bank does—from crafting monetarypolicy that helps fuel America’s mammoth,$13 trillion economy without ignitinginflation, to keeping the banking systemsound and the payments system hummingso that billions of dollars in currency andchecks get to where they are needed, asneeded. My colleagues at the Fed wereexcited to hear I was receiving this honortonight...Men and women of conviction andpurpose—especially those given topunctilious courtesy and the nicest senseof personal honor—lead us into the futureunafraid of the obstacles that might deterothers, just as their military counterparts,like Gen. Holland ‘Howlin’ Mad’ Smith,fearlessly led their comrades into battle inWorld War II...Great words of wisdom caninspire us, but they are not what determinewho we are. Character comes from ourupbringing and our experiences—and it ison this very personal level that I want toaddress the members of the Corps of Cadetswho are with us tonight. I have been in yourshoes. At 14, I was shipped from Californiato Admiral Farragut Academy in TomsRiver, N.J., a school like this one, but runaccording to naval tradition. It was a toughand unforgiving place. General Cheney’scounterpart, our headmaster, was namedRaven O. Dodge. He had one arm. We livedin fear of him. But we respected him, evenif the guys on the swim team called him‘Sidestroke. We rose at 6:15 every morning,mustered out to the parade field forinspection and marched to breakfast information. We had morning classes andthen formed up and marched to lunch with

our drum and bugle corps. After lunch cameafternoon classes, then at 3:30 we were offto activities and sports, and then, for thelast time for the day, we formed up againand marched to dinner at 6. We wentstraight to our rooms after dinner to dohomework before lights-out at 10. Onweekends, we had full-dress parades. Welearned how to handle weapons and, beingat a naval academy prep school, how to tieknots and navigate by the stars. My buddiesback home thought I was nuts. They werewith their families, dating good-lookinggirls, driving cars, spending money, havingfun, sleeping late and doing things on theirown good time. I was in New Jersey for fouryears marching to meals, studying hard,leading a highly disciplined life and gettingby on a $2-a-week allowance. We got $5 aweek as seniors, but it didn’t make a wholelot of difference because we only got out onSaturday and Sunday afternoons. My lifeand my friends’ lives were as different asnight and day. Sound familiar? I wouldn’tgo back and change any of it because thelessons I learned in those four years madeit possible for me to accomplish all thosethings that General Cheney bragged onearlier. We learned to internalize—to comeby as instinct...learned the values ofcamaraderie and esprit de corps, and thatsemper fidelis was more than a slogan.Being faithful to your country, your missionand your potential is reward in itself...Wealso learned a lesson that is quintessentiallyAmerican. When you wear a uniform andyou live in the same dorms and eat the samefood in the same place, nobody careswhether you are rich or poor or where youor your parents came from. I was the son ofimmigrants. My father never got past fourthgrade; my mother was a secretary. I was atschool with a lot of rich boys who had greatlegacies and fancy bloodlines, but it didn’t

make a bit of difference. You moved up inrank according to your effort andachievement. You got what you earned andyou earned what you got...I can’t tell youhow many times people have asked me: Justhow did you get to Annapolis and Harvardand all those fancy schools? How did youend up on Wall Street, make money, becomean ambassador and get to do all those high-sounding things in Washington? How didyou end up working with Kissinger? Andhow did you get to sitting at the table withGreenspan and Bernanke at the FederalReserve? What’s your secret? Well, it doeshelp to have good luck on your side—serendipity comes in mighty handy. I havehad more than my share of it. But I believethat the lessons and discipline learned atFarragut Academy, just like those you arelearning here, are what made a lot of thatgood luck possible. ..I’m going to give it toyou straight from the ultimate source:Oprah Winfrey. As accomplished anAmerican as you will ever find, she said itbest: ‘The big secret in life is that there isno big secret. Whatever your goal, you canget there if you’re willing to work.’ Thathits the nail on the head. That, andremembering you never, my friends, never,never, never, go deer hunting with anaccordion. Thank you. Semper Fi.”

As MMA Corps of Cadets absorbed Mr.Fisher’s remarks, realization of theimportant role they, as tomorrow’s leaders,would assume sparked evident upon theirfaces. Not only did Mr. Fisher ‘talk the talk’--he had walked in their very shoes...and asa cadet commented, “He sure knows alotabout, well, EVERYTHING...and you cantake THAT to the bank!”

The sun shone brightly on the Academy’sParade Deck Saturday morning as the

General H.M. Smith/Iwo Jima Parade-goers made way to their seats. At 10a.m. sharp the Adjutant’s Call rang outand the Academy’s Drill Team took thefield. Maneuvering with greatprecision through routines, eachexchanged rifles with a distinct snapof the wrist, drawing rounds ofapplause from the large crowd. As theDrill Team exited, the Academy’sBand performed, drawing theaudience in to an interactive renditionof ‘Little Liza Jane’. BGen Cheneycalled upon Mr. Richard Fisher and themany Iwo Jima veterans in attendanceto join him in reviewing theAcademy’s Corps of Cadets. Crispsalutes were exchanged as the Cadetsmarched by, and many who witnessedthe patriotic, auspicious occasion werevisibly moved.The third weekend of February 2007truly marked an important milestonein Marine Military Academyhistory...a fact you can bank on!

IWO JIMA VETERANS join Mr. Richard Fisher,President of the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas andMMA President BGen Steve Cheney, USMC (Ret) inParade Review during February 17th Corps of CadetsParade.

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The second semester is going very smoothly.It is still hard to believe that it is alreadypast the end of February. Unlike busy andactive first semester, second semester isquiet and calm. Most of seniors are readyfor college and Juniors are still busy withcollege exploration. With the assistance ofMrs. Farris and available resources incollege room, cadets have many resourcesto aid them in their college search.

The Corps of Cadets had a few importanttasks: Academic Awards Ceremony, PlebeGraduation, H. M. Smith FoundationDinner and The Iwo Jima Parade. Manyacademically proved cadets whose GPA was3.5 and above received awards from thePresident of MMA, Brigadier GeneralCheney. These cadets have proventhemselves to be dedicated and hard-working individuals. Plebes, graduated onFebruary 3rd, were happy to become partof MMA Corps of Cadets, starting with their1st liberty on their graduation weekend.H. M. Smith Foundation Dinner, animportant fund raiser for MMA, had aspecial guest this year. Richard W Fisher,the current president of The FederalReserve Bank of Dallas, attended as guestof Brigadier General Cheney. The dinnerwas wonderful. Cadets showed excellentpoise in their Dress Blue uniform. The IwoJima Parade, the most important parade ofthe year, was also very successful. Iwo JimaVeterans who went through the battles weremoved to tears by MMA cadets’ outstandingperformance. I believe that Corps of Cadetsgave them their best parade - just likealways.

After all the outstanding jobs cadets haveaccomplished, the sweet spring break ishere. But at the same time, the quarter examis just around the corner. The break willserve as the last recharging period forcadets before graduation and summerbreak. After the break, cadets will be readyto go for the Alumni Parade on March 30th.I believe the cadets will give their best shotas always. Summer is not far away. This isBattalion PAO...Sounding OFF!

--Cadet Shin, Echo Co.Editor’s Note: Cadet Corporal Dong-KwonShin is a 2nd-year student at MMA, son ofMr. and Mrs. ChangSoon Shin ofChungcheongnam-do, KOREA.

BATTALION PAO,SOUNDING OFF...

GEN H M SMITH FOUNDATION INDUCTEES �07

General H.M. Smith Foundation inductees this year include Mrs. Jane Coleman ofGreenville, South Carolina; Major Byron G. Genung, USMC(Ret) of Pensacola, Florida; Mr.David Meyer and Mrs. Karen Meyer of Dallas, Texas; Sergeant Major Albert S. Wilson, Jr.USMC(Ret) of Harlingen, Texas; Brigadier General John F. Kinney, USMC(Ret), in memoriam;and Sergeant Major David Miller, USMCR, of Harlingen, Texas. Pictured above, L-R: SgtMajMiller, USMCR; Mrs. Karen Meyer; Mr. David Meyer; and SgtMaj Al Wilson, USMC (Ret).

The MARINE MILITARY ACADEMYextends appreciation to our generous sponsors, caterer, and many friends

whose support contributed greatly to the success of The Academy’s Annual General H.M. Smith Foundation Dinner

held February 16, 2007 at The Florence E. King Athletic Center

KEYNOTE SPEAKER & IWO JIMA LEADERSHIP AWARD RECIPIENT Mr. Richard Fisher, President - Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas

SPONSORS:PLATINUM

Mr. and Mrs. Frank N. BoggusColonel and Mrs. G.F. Robert Hanke, USMCR (Ret)

Mr. and Mrs. Harvey H. HardeeMr. and Mrs. Joseph W. Pollard, Sr.

SILVERAnonymous Donor

Mr. and Mrs. Rob BowenMr. and Mrs. Robert R. Farris

First Community BankMr. and Mrs. Anthony J. McIntyre

Mr. and Mrs. Robert H. ParrottMr. and Mrs. Joe Singh Rodriguez

Texas State BankMr. and Mrs. James Harrel Tipton, Jr.

BRONZEMr. and Mrs. Robert G. Barton

Mr. and Mrs. Michael P. BradleyCaptain and Mrs. William A. Gary, USMCR (Ret)

Mr. and Mrs. Norbert EwersMr. Matt F. Gorges and Mrs. Patti Gorges

Mr. and Mrs. John P. HeinerMr. and Mrs. Gary W. Mielsch

Lieutenant Colonel and Mrs. Michael E. White, USMC (Ret)Mr. and Mrs. Harold J. Zurlo

SUPERB CATERING BYMAGNOLIA GRILLEHead Chef RENEE ILOG

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At the beginning of each academic semester, Marine Military Academy (MMA) recognizes cadets for outstanding academic performancedemonstrated in the prior semester. Cadets earning a first semester GPA of 3.75 or above for Academic Year 2006-2007 receive honorsand placement on the President’s List. Cadets with a first semester GPA for Academic Year 2006-2007 between 3.50 and 3.74 receivehonors and placement on the Dean’s List. Cadets receiving a Gold Wreath are on the President’s List for the first time with a GPA of 3.755or above, and cadets receiving a Silver Wreath are on the Dean’s List for the first time with a GPA between 3.5 and 3.74. Those receivinga Gold Star have been on the President’s List for two consecutive semesters, and those receiving a Blue Star have been on either thePresident’s or Dean’s list for two consecutive semesters. Those earning recognition for their first semester’s academic performance werehonored on Friday, 2 February 2007, during MMA’s 2:30 p.m. Academic Awards Ceremony held in the Academy’s Phillip YeckelAuditorium. Earning academic honors/commendation from MMA President Brigadier General Stephen A. Cheney, USMC (Ret) andDean of Academics John D. Butler, Ed.D.:

SHINING BRIGHTLY: ACADEMY AWARD RECIPIENTS

Alexander, Andrew-Gold Wreath

Blanchard, Victor-Silver Wreath

Boldt, Dylan-Gold Wreath

Bowen, Zachary-Silver Wreath, Blue Star

Castro, Emmanuel-Gold Wreath,Gold Star

Cervassi, Vincent-Silver Wreath

Davidson, Trevor-Silver Wreath, Blue Star

Davis, Andrew-Gold Wreath

Duncan, Travis-Gold Wreath;Gold Star

Fitch, Ryan-Silver Wreath

Franks, Jason-Gold Wreath

Frasca, Adrian-Gold Wreath

Fuqua, James-Silver Wreath

George, Nicholas-Silver Wreath, Blue Star

Gurganious, Kevin-Gold Wreath, Blue Star

Harrison, Eric-Gold Wreath

Hefele, John-Gold Wreath

Hobby, Geoffrey-Silver Wreath , Blue Star

Houser, Kevin-Gold Wreath, Blue Star

Hudnall, Taylor-Silver Wreath

Jerome, David-Silver Wreath

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Juarez-Salazar, Alejandro-Silver Wreath

Karfunkle, Michael-Gold Wreath

Keegan, Nathaniel-Gold Wreath

Khalil, Daniel-Gold Wreath

Marcyan, Colt-Silver Wreath, Blue Star

Martinez, Jose-Silver Wreath

Parrott, Thomas-Silver Wreath

Phillips, Zachary-Silver Wreath

Rodriguez, David-Silver Wreath

Rodriguez, Lionel-Silver Wreath

Rodriguez, Ricardo-Gold Wreath;Gold Star

Saldivar-Gonzalez, Juan-Gold Wreath

Secrest, Tyler-Gold Wreath

Sevilla, Aaron-Silver Wreath

Shin, Dong-Gold Wreath

Smith, Taylor-Gold Wreath

Steeg, Edgar-Gold Wreath

Stuhlmiller, Kyle-Silver Wreath

Tipton, William-Silver Wreath

Torres-Gonzalez, Carlos-Silver Wreath

Viers, Patrick-Silver Wreath

Wagener, Kyle-Silver Wreath, Blue Star

and Yang, Zijian-Silver Wreath

“A good education consists of givingto the mind, the body and the spirit allof the beauty and perfection of which

they are capable.” —Plato

Cadets of the Month for December ‘06

CHARLIE COMPANYLOGAN EISELE

Junior - New York, NY“Cadet Eisele has done an

outstanding job. He demonstratesstupendous leadership skills andmaintains his military bearing at

all times. He assists other cadets inacademic and/or military subjects

and serves as a fine example for allto follow.”

- GySgt Antonio Aguilar, USMC(Ret)

DELTA COMPANYCHRISTOPHER DOUGHERTYJunior - Houston, TX“Cadet Dougherty has performedhis duties as 1st Platoon Guide inexcellent manner. As a result of hisperformance, can-do attitude andunselfish work ethic, he has earnedmy nomination for this prestigioushonor.” - SgtMaj LarryCarson, USMC (Ret)

ECHO COMPANYPSALM ULLRICHSophomore - Somerset, CA“Cadet Ullrich is a first-year cadetat the Academy who has done anoutstanding job as Fire Team Leader.He is motivated and dedicated to ourcore values, wears his uniform withpride, set a great example to all ca-dets in his platoon, and is great tohave in my company.” - GySgtFrank Martinez, USMC (Ret)

FOX COMPANYJOHN HEFELE

Freshman - Seabrook, TX“Cadet Hefele consistently displaysthe Academy’s attributes of a model

cadet. His ‘well-rounded’ leadershipbreeds success within Fox Companyand the Corps of Cadets. It is trulya pleasure to have him on board.” -

MSgt Robert Fracasso, USMC (Ret)

GOLF COMPANYKEVIN GURGANIOUS

Senior - Houston, TX“Cadet Gurganious is currently

Platoon Commander and has donean outstanding job. He demon-

strates exemplary leadership skillsand maintains his military bearingat all times. During CCQ (Call To

Close Quarters) he assists othercadets in both academic andmilitary subjects. He sets anexample for all to follow .”

- SgtMaj Albert Wilson, USMC(Ret)

BANDSMANRICHARD COOKFreshman - Dallas, TX“Cadet Cook has been an extremelyreliable member of the MMA Band.He clearly cares about the quality ofthe Band and equally about thequality of his own work within theBand. He possesses all the qualities Ilook for in every good, youngmusician. He’s energetic andALWAYS very positive with greatimpact on the Band.” - CWO3 EdHarris, USMC (Ret)

DRILL TEAM/COLOR GUARDRYAN VOGELJunior - Boerne, TX“Cadet Vogel is a 1st-year cadetthat has hit the ground running. Hisdedication and constant striving forperfection is to be emulated withinthe Drill and Color Guard Team.His competitive attitude sets the pacefor his team members and theAcademy’s Corps of Cadets alike.”- MSgt Robert Fracasso, USMC(Ret)

ALPHA COMPANYDAVID RODRIGUEZ

Sophomore - Sylmur, CA“ Cadet Rodriguez is a superior

cadet in every respect. Hecurrently serves as Company

Guide, and I expect he will quicklymove into more key and active

leadership roles. He’s energetic,motivated, and made of the most

moral fiber. He’s earned therespect of all and is one of the

most trustworthy cadets I’ve everknown.”- CWO3 Ed Harris,

USMC (Ret)

Each month a cadet is selected from each company, from the band and from the drill team, to be recognized for theiroutstanding attitude, conduct and performance. Below are the selections for December with a comment from their DrillInstructor or activity coordinator.

“Those selected are to be commended for their outstanding performance.” - SgtMaj Ford Kinsley, USMC (Ret)Commandant

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Cadets of the Month for January ‘07

CHARLIE COMPANYALEJANDRO JUAREZ

Sophomore - San Luis Potosi,MEXICO

“Cadet Juarez demonstratesoutstanding leadership skills andmaintains his military bearing atall times. He is always willing to

lend a helping hand to othercadets in academic and/or military

studies. Cadet Juarez serves as aCadet Instructor and sets a goodexample for all others to follow.”

- GySgt Antonio Aguilar, USMC(Ret)

DELTA COMPANYFAN YANGJunior - CHINA“Since Cadet Yang’s arrival inDELTA Company he has done anoutstanding job. His performancehas always been excellent. Becauseof the consistent motivation heprovides to his platoon members, heis-without a single question--a risingstar in this Company! - SgtMajLarry Carson, USMC (Ret)

ECHO COMPANYADAM TAHIRKHELISophomore- Spring Hill, TN“Cadet Tahirkheli is a 1st-yearcadet who learned to develop hisleadership skills quickly, becomingCadet Instructor for Mid-Term 2007.I predict one day he will become agreat leader within our Company. Heworks very hard to get good gradesand is respected by his peers.” - GySgt Frank Martinez,USMC (Ret)

FOX COMPANYJAMES CORSENTINO

Senior - Napa , CA“Cadet Corsentino, “THE

UPFRONT LEADER”, is a 2nd-year cadet who has demonstrated

and displayed an excellent maturitylevel, unique leadership style, no-

stop and attentive performance. Hisconstant involvement within the

Corps of Cadets, CommunityService, Activities and ChristianFaith is to be emulated by all.”

- MSgt Robert Fracasso, USMC (Ret)

GOLF COMPANYSILAS HOWELL

Sophomore - Hunt, TX “Cadet Howell serves as Squad

Member, 1st Platoon and has donean outstanding job. He demonstrates

outstanding leadership potentialdaily. He maintains military bearing

at all times, is focussed and dedi-cated to his education and the Corps

of Cadets. For a 1st-year cadet, Ipredict he will be a future leader in

GOLF Company.” - SgtMaj Albert Wilson, USMC

(Ret)BANDSMANJAMES CORSENTINOSenior - Napa , CA“Cadet Corsentino is an extremely reliable,quality-minded Band member. His devel-opment is sound and consistent. He’s agentleman and young man of honor andpride. His superior ranking in his companydoes not interfere with his role within theLeatherneck Band...and more importantlywithin the Drum Line. He works very wellwith the Cadet Lance Corporal that is hisSection Leader. Energetic and ALWAYSpositive, Cadet Captain Corsentino has avery positive impact on the Band.”- CWO3 Ed Harris, USMC (Ret)

DRILL TEAM/COLOR GUARDRYAN VOGELJunior - Boerne, TX“Cadet Vogel is a cadet in ‘over-drive’ within the Drill Team andColor Guard. His enthusiasm breedssuccess in such a team environmentthat no one can ignore. His initiativeand can-do attitude is why he hasbeen selected for this prestigiousrecognition. I look forward toworking with him as he becomes aleader of cadets.”-MSgt Robert Fracasso, USMC (Ret)

ALPHA COMPANYBRANDON WHITEHEAD

Sophomore - San Marino, CA“ Cadet Whitehead has become a

strong, respected leader withinAlpha Company...one who takesfellow cadets aside and provides

meaningful counsel and guidance,with genuine concern and entirely

of his own accord. He clearly takeshis duties and his education very

seriously, putting growth,improvement, effort and determi-

nation into every day.”- CWO3 EdHarris, USMC (Ret)

Each month a cadet is selected from each company, from the band and from the drill team, to be recognized for theiroutstanding attitude, conduct and performance. Below are the selections for January with a comment from their DrillInstructor or activity coordinator.

“Those selected are to be commended for their outstanding performance.” - SgtMaj Ford Kinsley, USMC (Ret)Commandant

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“When in doubt, look it up! Funny thing about books...theydon’t BITE. Where? Start with the index...in the BACK of thebook!” MMA Science Department Director Dr. Rhoda steersCadetsCorsentino and Ray back to the books in response totheir inquiry, standing by ready to assist. Stay the course,young men!

LEARNING TO DO ...

JUST ABOUT ANYTHING!MMA SYNERGISTIC LEARNINGLABS GIVE CADETS ‘HANDS-ON’TECHNICAL EXPERIENCE

The cadets entering the Synergistic Learning Lab are brightand inquisitive. However, some have never been presentedthe opportunity to develop their imaginations and skills withinthe public school sector. Because of this, they often askquestions like, “Why do I have to learn this?” or “When will Iever need this stuff?” Under the creative supervision of Dr.Robert Rhoda, Director of MMA’s Science Department, MMAhas adopted a program that answers most of these questionsand also attempts to make learning a fun activity.

Synergistic Systems is a computer-based, laboratory learningsystem. Developed by PITSCO, a respected leader in innovativescience programs, the System utilizes the fact that today’s kidsare extremely computer literate, and involves them in thelearning process at a whole new level. The System uses thecadets’ interests and skills with computers as a springboard todevelop an interest in science, and allows them to developimaginative skills while learning both science and math.

Synergistic Systems is a technical course the students actuallytell us they look forward to every day. It is not uncommon forten, twelve or more students to come in after school, even whenit’s not mandatory, to work in the lab on learning modules.

A core science course, Physical Science, targeted towards eighthgraders, it is also offered for grades 9 through 12 as an extrascience course or bridge course entitled ‘Conceptual Physics’to help hone the skill of students not quite ready to enter physicsor chemistry.

The course is interactive and includes such topics as AppliedPhysics, Computer Technology, Microbiology and SimpleMachines in the upper levels. The eighth grade course includessuch programs as Alternative Energy, Cell Structure, PracticalSkills and Weights & Measures. Both levels include a modulein Personal Finance, where cadets learn to run a bank account,the cost of credit, and how to compute taxes. A math-heavymodule called Statistics is also presented to teach the importanceof understanding studies and reports seen daily.

The Synergistic system makes use of all types of learning skills,auditory, visual and kinesthetic. Cadets take a short quiz at thebeginning of each session. This quiz is designed to encourage

them to research information provided in the module libraries.After cadets look up information of the topic, they view a short,introductory video that outlines the specifics of the topic, thenwork through seven sessions during which they build things ordesign and conduct experiments to show how things work.Following the seven sessions, cadets take a Post Test that actsas a final exam on the topic.

MMA’s Science Department is confident that cadets are fullyinvolved in the Synergistic Systems program and fully engagedin each activity. As the program matures, Dr. Rhoda will keepa watchful eye on performance in the upper level math andscience courses to evaluate the program on an Outcomes basis.He expects to see great results over the next few years as aresult of Synergistic Systems program. Learn on, Cadets!

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CADETSFIRE UPELECTRONSIN MMA’sAP PHYSICSLABThe Academy’s AP(Advanced Placement) Physicsstudents, in their study of theproperties of the electron,recently conducted anexperiment first performed bythe British physicist J.J.Thomson in 1898. Thomsonwas subsequently awarded theNobel Prize in physics in 1906for this same experimentamong others he conducted inexploration of the nature ofelectrons.

Students were divided into two teams. Team “T”, thetheoreticians, consisted of Cadets Luis Paz, Preston Meyer,Zachary Bowen, and Dylan Boldt as Team Leader. Team“E”, the experimental component, wascomprised of Cadets Jimmy Enos,Nicolas Gurganious, Tate Landin, andTeam Leader Alexander Bosque. TeamE used an electron gun (similar to atelevision picture tube) filled with heliumgas. Very high voltage was applied to thecontacts of the gun “boiling” electrons offof the metal and shooting them into thechamber of the gun where they interacted

with the helium gas producing a bluishstreak. The streak allowed the studentsto observe the behavior of the electronstream. A magnetic field was thenapplied to the space in which the electrongun was located. It is known thatelectrons will follow a circular orbit inmagnetic fields. The students were ableto observe this orbit and measure itsradius. Team T, knowing the appliedvoltage and current from theirinstrumentation and the radius of orbit,were able to calculate the ratio of theelectrons charge to its mass. Students’results were within 3% of the actualvalue - a ‘most excellent’ outcome!

“IF X = KNOWN APPLIED VOLTAGE AND Y IS EQUIVALENT TO ...” Team ‘T’ chalksup the ratio of electrons charge to its mass, making sure to document each moveon the computer for posterity (and a ‘most excellent’ grade!).

MMA’s newest addition to Faculty, Kevin D. Coleman, Physics instructor, demonstrates thefiner techniques of an experiment involving electrons, as Team ‘E’ observes.

To the right: A successfulcharge shoots electronsinto the chamber wherethey interact with heliumgas, producing the visiblebluish streak.

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Around Campus...

The Marine Military Academy continued its participation in the Rotary Youth Leadership Award, RYLA,camp held at Camp Zepher on Lake Corpus Christi, 2-4 February. All Academy participants are membersof the school�s INTERACT Club sponsored by the Harlingen Rotary Club. The camp was attended byapproximately 200 high school juniors from throughout southern Texas. RYLA provides for the �Leadersof Tomorrow� a forum for teamwork, communication, and consensus building in an environment thatchallenges personal and team responsibilities. The weekend camp provides high school student leadersopportunities to expand and hone their leadership skills through cabin activities, athletic events,educational workshops, and team building exercises. A most rewarding experience for our cadetswho all return with a greater appreciation of their maturity, confidence, and leadership gained from theMMA opportunity. RYLA is a coed camp which possibly contributes to the enthusiasm with which ourCadets return to the Academy! Pictured above, Left to Right - Cadets Marcyan, Aiken (both campers)and Landin, Secrest, and Bowen (returning campers selected to serve as counselors this year).

PURRRRRRFECT! Marine Military Academy played host, once again, to the annualOcelot Conservation Festival held Saturday, February 10th. Proceeds from the eventhelp fund conservation efforts towards preservation of the ocelot, a dwindling speciesof wild cat weighing from 15 to 35 pounds and measuring 3-4 feet in length. Only 50-100 ocelots remain in South Texas. Besides live ocelot shows, the event offered laserhunting, outdoor events, silent auctions, nonprofit wildlife exhibits, birdwatchinggames, nature seminars, nature photography workshops--even tanks filled with sealife suitable for human touch! MMA�s ECHO Company helped direct traffic and festival-goers, running errands and lending a helping hand wherever needed. OORAH!

DOUBLE DELIGHT! Bright and early Monday morning, February 26th, andthroughout the remainder of the day, Marine Military Academy�s NationalHonor Society and United Blood Services collected a phenomenal 117 unitsof blood, surpassing the set goal of 100. MMA staff and faculty joined Cadetsin the community-focussed effort. Turnout among the enthusiastic MMACorps of Cadets was so great, the technicians kept all chairs moving atrecord pace, yet making certain all Cadets received top-notchattention...and EVERYONE left with a t-shirt and stress ball in hand, a smilefrom ear-to-ear, and the knowledge they gave the gift of life. (Photo below)

Cadets in attendancewere treated to an encoreperformance by noneother than the Rio GrandeValley�s White WingsBaseball Team mascotduring a recent gameintermission. MMA SocialDirectress Monica Batesarranged the outing andprovided photos of thefun. DO TELL...WHOCAUGHT THE GAMEBALL?

CITIZEN CADETS. Cadets Tyler Maloon (left) andZachary Bowen (right) were presented the DAR(Daughters of the American Revolution) GoodCitizenship Award at the annual Awards Ceremonyheld Saturday, February 17th in Peacher Hall. Theawards are presented each year by the LieutenantThomas Barlow Chapter of DAR to the mostaccomplished 8th and 12th grade students in theChapter�s region who exhibit superior performancein academic, military and community endeavors.

DELUXE ACCOMMODATIONS FOR THE BIRDS.Cadets Cerna (left) and Nye, members of MMA�sBoy Scout Troop 22, put finishing touches on birdhabitats for the Rio Grande Valley�s indigenousferruginous pygmy owls in an effort to providesafe haven for the dwindling population. Theproject, when complete, will provide meritcompletion for the Scout in charge to utilizetowards advancement to Eagle Scout ranking.Eagles and owls...oh my! Photographed 2/27/07

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The following named CADETS have earned promotion to the Rank and Billet indicated below: *Military Department Promotions

The annual MCJROTC Inspection got underway bright and early Friday, February 23rd.The entire Corps of Cadets turned out in Dress Blue uniform for inspection...scrutinizedright down to a microscopic piece of fuzz on a white belt! After a hearty lunch, eachcompany was evaluated on their ability to conduct �close order drill� (see Commandant�sexhibition of proper drill execution above, right). All companies did exceedingly well inboth areas. Alpha Company nailed the �best� inspected company status (top, left) andDelta Company captured �best� in drill competition (bottom, left). And how do cadetscelebrate the fruits of a labor-filled day? �PIZZA PARTY� Friday night and a well-deserved�sleep in� on Saturday morning...OORAH!

ALPHA:

AGUIRRE, ADRIAN-CadetPrivate First Class/SquadMemberBERTALOT, DANIEL-CadetStaff Sergeant/PlatoonSergeantBLAINE, ADAM-CadetCorporal/Fire Team LeaderBRYANT, DANIEL-CadetSergeant/Squad LeaderCERVASSI, VINCENT-CadetColonel/Bn CommandingOfficerCHATELLE, MICHAEL-CadetCorporal/Fire Team LeaderCOOK, RICHARD-CadetLance Corporal/SquadMemberCURETON, MICHAEL-CadetLance Corporal/SquadMemberDAVIS, ANDREW-CadetLieutenant Colonel/BnExecutive OfficerECHEVERRIA, CARLOS-Cadet Private First Class/Squad MemberFITCH, RYAN-Cadet Sergeant/Squad Leader

GENOFF, TYREL L-CadetMajor/CO CommanderFRANKS, JASON-Cadet FirstSergeant/CO First SergeantHUME, ZACHARY-Cadet

Sergeant/Platoon GuideMC DONOUGH, THOMAS-Cadet Staff Sergeant/PlatoonSergeantPAZ, LUIS-Cadet Captain/COExecutive OfficerRODRIGUEZ, JAMES-CadetFirst Lieutenant/PlatoonCommanderSHAW, MARK-Cadet LanceCorporal/Squad MemberSPINGOLA, PHILLIP-CadetSergeant/Platoon GuideSTEPHENSON, CHARLES-Cadet Lance Corporal/SquadMemberSTUHLMILLER, KELLEN-Cadet First Lieutenant/PlatoonCommanderTRETTER, JOSEPH-CadetPrivate First Class/SquadMember

CHARLIE:

FRANTZ, JUSTIN-CadetPrivate First Class/Fire TeamLeaderGARZA, HECTOR-CadetPrivate First Class/SquadMemberHAYNES, HUBERT-CadetPrivate First Class/SquadMemberHENG, DAVID-CadetSergeant/Platoon Sergeant

JACOBS, JAKE-Cadet PrivateFirst Class/Squad MemberLICARDO, MAURICO-CadetPrivate First Class/SquadMemberMORALES, FERNANDO-Cadet Private First Class/Squad MemberTREVINO, JORGE-CadetPrivate First Class/SquadMember

DELTA:

HARRISON, ERIC-Cadet FirstLieutenant/Public AffairsOfficerPOWELL, RICHARD-CadetFirst Lieutenant/PlatoonCommanderTHOMAS, ANDREW-CadetFirst Lieutenant/PlatoonCommander

BLANCHARD, VICTOR-CadetStaff Sergeant/CompanyGuidon BearerCROWLEY, OISIN-CadetCorporal/Company EducationSNCODAVIDSON, GARY-CadetPrivate First Class/Fire TeamLeaderDAWSON-THOMAS, LIAM-Cadet Sergeant/Platoon GuideDAY, RYAN-Cadet StaffSergeant/Platoon SergeantFASOLAK, STEWART-CadetLance Corporal/Squad Leader

FRASER, MATTHEW-CadetPrivate First Class/SquadMemberGRIFFIN, SCOTT-CadetPrivate First Class/SquadMemberKHALIL, DANIEL-CadetSergeant/Squad MemberLEE, EDWIN-Cadet PrivateFirst Class/Squad MemberROY, JOHN-Cadet Corporal/Fire Team LeaderVOGEL, RYAN-Cadet LanceCorporal/Squad MemberWHITTENBERG, MICHAEL-Cadet Private First Class/FireTeam LeaderYANG, FAN-Cadet LanceCorporal/Platoon Guide

ECHO:

ARANDA, DIAMOND-CadetPrivate First Class/SquadMemberHILLARD, STEVEN-CadetSergeant/Platoon GuideJACKSON, JONATHAN-CadetCorporal/Squad LeaderKUHR, MICHAEL-CadetCorporal/Squad LeaderMIELSCH, JUSTIN-CadetPrivate First Class/SquadMemberMORRISON III, CHARLES-Cadet Corporal/Squad LeaderOROZCO, MATTHEW-CadetPrivate First Class/SquadMemberPEREZ, MIGUEL-CadetPrivate First Class/SquadMemberPERRY, CHARLES-CadetLance Corporal/SquadMemberSMITH, AUSTIN-Cadet LanceCorporal/Squad LeaderTAHIRKHELI, ADAM-CadetCorporal/Squad MemberULLRICH, PSALM-CadetCorporal/Squad LeaderVIERS, PATRICK-CadetSergeant/Squad LeaderTORRES-GONZALEZ,CARLOS-Cadet First Lieuten-ant/Platoon Commander

* List complete as of March 6th, 2007

LEATHERNECK SPORTS� Baseball�Basketball�Boxing�Cross Country�Football�Golf�Judo�Physical Fitness Training�Soccer�Swimming�Tennis�Track & Field�Volleyball �Wrestling �

� Baseball�Basketball�Boxing�Cross Country�Football�Golf�Judo�Physical Fitness Training�Soccer�Swimming�Tennis�Track & Field�Volleyball �Wrestling � Bas

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TOM MORTONATHLETIC DIRECTOR

HEAD FOOTBALL COACH

�Taking Care Of Business�

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LEATHERNECK BASEBALL TEAM ACTION ... SIZZLING HOT!Coaches Albert Esparza and Brett Esparza

Pictured, (L-R)Front-Cadet Smith A, Nordbak, Houser, and Wick. Back Row: Coach Esparza, Cadets McDonough, Stuhlmiller, Klein,Newman, Yellin, Vrettos, Abercrombie, Kuhr, Fletcher, Landin, Allen-Barker, Bracken; Assistant Coach Brett Esparza.

MMA’s LEATHERNECK BASEBALL Team is RED HOT, touting a 4-0 winning streak. According to Battalion PAO Cadet Shin, there’sseveral reasons why - experienced seniors from last year; Coach Albert and Brett Esparza’s newly-instituted practice methods; highlydedicated players from different regions; and good old-fashioned hard practice! Starting lineup is: Cadet Villarreal–Center Field;Cadet Landin–Short Stop/Pitcher; Cadet Nordbak–Second Base; Cadet Jackson–First Base; Cadet Houser–Third Base; CadetNewman–Catcher; Cadet Stuhmiller–Left Field; Cadet Kuhr–Right Field; and Cadet Klein– Pitcher. Even though players’ goalsvary, they are all united on one goal - winning district championship. Each time they take the field, the crowd is in for a treat as theseLEATHERNECKS put their best effort in every single game. From the Battalion PAO’s perspective: “Coach Albert and BrettEsparza, MMA Leathernecks Baseball Coaches, both say ‘they are there to win, not to lose.’ They know their team - even with brandnew player recruits - very well. They know weaknesses and abilities of every single player. Taking this a step further, these coaches evenknow the players off the field. Coach Albert and Brett Esparza have designed a new practice system based on muscle memories,breaking down every aspect of batting and putting them into their own station. Strong believers in fundamentals, these coachesworked on the ‘basics’ with the Team the first two weeks of the season. Having faith in their team, they expect a lot. They are not onlybaseball coaches but mentors as well. For Coach Brett, even though this year in MMA is his first year of coaching, his passion forvictory is incomparable to those who coach other high school baseball teams.” KEEP ON KEEPING ON...SWING BATTER,BATTER...SWING! HOME RUNS ALL AROUND FOR THE BLAZING LEATHERNECKS!

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LEATHERNECK TENNISPaul Jesudasan, Head Coach

LEATHERNECK WRESTLING

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LEATHERNECK BASKETBALL

LEATHERNECK BOXINGSgtMaj Fred Robertson, Head Trainor and

GySgt Jose Villareal, Coach

MMA’s LEATHERNECK BOXING Team doled out a ration of MMA heat atMission February 24th. Cadet James Rodriquez won his match. CadetDavid Rodriquez lost a very close match and Cadet Viers lost his match.Two fighters weren’t able to compete because inability to match theirweight categories. If enthusiasm and true grit sufficed, allLEATHERNECKS would BRING home the gold...no doubt about it!

MMA’s LEATHERNECK WRESTLERS advanced 3 to StateCompetition under the steady hand of Jason Ibarra, Head Coach.Cadet Zach Bowen emerged with 3rd place honors at 215 pounds.

Leatherneck Tennis Teamcontinues to heat up the courtin fine MMA fashion. At SanBenito on February 23rd,Tennis Team member CadetJake Jacobs seized the lead,taking 1st place honors. Not

far behind, Cadet Andrew Gonzalez finished 3rd in the 9th grade level.Cadets Alex Delape and John Hefele were just one point shy of placing3rd in doubles. HEADS UP AND STAY ALERT ... THIS TEAM ISDESTINED TO KEEP THE COURT A’ROCKIN!

MMA’s LEATHERNECK BASKETBALL Team players earnedALL DISTRICT honors in TAPPS District 4, Class 6A:

Pictured, L-R: Cadet Zachary Bowen, 215 lbs.; MMA WrestlingHead Coach Jason Ibarra; Cadet Kyle Gannon, 130 lbs.; andCadet Kevin Gurganious, 135 lbs. Truly STATE OF THE ART!

Taking 1st Team-All District Honors, L-R: Cadet Xavier Soto; MMABasketball Head Coach Erasmo Molina; Cadets Malique Graham andBilly Hardee. Not pictured is Cadet Ally Bosque, Honorable Mention.

LEATHERNECK GOLFMatt Yates, Head Coach

LEATHERNECK TRACKMike Morton, Head Coach

OVER THE RIVER AND ‘ROUND THE WOODS...SMACKDAB IN THE MIDDLE O’THE GREEN! Leatherneck GolfTeam tallied up 3rd place points at the Lyford Tournament. CadetAlley Bosque once again took Medalist honors with a score of 76.Other team members competing: Cadets Cory Stephenson, ChrisEgan, Bryan White, and John Abercrombie. Count ‘em...FORE!

L-R, Front: Cadets Rodriguez D, Martinez JM, Martinez JB, Filice,Viers, Rodriguez L, Rodriguez J, Reyes, and Cha. Back row:Thomas, Blakey, Dawson, Lee, Ullrich, Maimone, and Munoz.

L-R: Front Row: Cadets Turner, Stillion, Williams, Tapia, Shep-herd, Juarez, Jerome and Lopez.; Back row: Vogel, Motheral,Telor, Bowen, Trevino, Colwell, Petry, Linton and Liguori. Notpictured: Cadets Hamilton, Middleton, Cook, Cervassi and Khalil.

L-R: Cadets Stephenson and White, Coach Yates, and CadetAbercrombie. Not pictured: Cadets Egan, Bosque, Bearden.

(L-R) Front Row: CadetsDeLape and Yang. Backrow: Cadets Jacob,Gonzalez A, Martinez R.,Hefele. Not pictured:Cadets Malcom andSpicer.

Alumni NewsMark Your Calendar and Don�t Miss Out:

MMA Alumni Celebration 2007March 30th - April 1st

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Fresh off the wire...

ALUMNI: Be sure to E-Mail your updates to pickens@mma-tx.org forinclusion in the Leader!

Need to find out what’s going on with a fellow alum? Get on board MMA’son-line “Alumni Bulletin Board”. Fill out the Alumni Information Requestform located on-line: http://www.mma-tx.org/alumni.htm or call ConnieFlores at (956) 421-9232.

Get on Board: ALL ALUMNI, ALL THE TIME!

’81Eric Crowder – icybayec@yahoo.com -working in West Icy Bay, Alaska as awoods mechanic, three children

John McCoy – rugbythumper@fuse.net -works for Construction Process Solutions,Ltd., a consulting firm in Ohio

Levi Noguess – lnoguess@vvm.com-living in Killeen, TX since retiring fromthe Army in July, with wife Julie owns andoperates Java Jo’z coffee shop, donnedthe uniform to give daughter LeAnne herfirst salute after her graduation from Basicin. Jan.

’83David Brandon – living in Amarillo, TXand producing videos for televisionadvertising market, also setting up an e-commerce site to sell used militaryelectronic test and other equipment

‘85Paul Gallagher (PG) –expleber@yahoo.com - Vice-President ofOperations for a consulting firm inCarlsbad, CA, married, two children

“FALL IN!”

MMA Alum Chris Ahrens, ‘88Denton Fire Department

A Fireman’s CreedA Fireman is dedicated to the protection

of life and property from fire.To Succeed -

He maintains a high morality standing.He has a high sense of civic spirit and duty.He ever strives to increase his knowledge

by studying new methodsand equipment designed to save

lives and property.He is ever vigilant, alert

and watchful in all cases of emergency.

‘88Chris Ahrens –cjahrens@hotmail.com - has beena firefighter in Denton, TX for 12years

James Burton -jburton@securebankingservices.cc- living outside Jacksonville, FL.and doing IT auditing for thefinancial industry, if he can’tmake this year’s ReunionWeekend, he will “ definitely bedown there next year for my 20yr.reunion.”

’90Tom Stephens –tstephens@texasfinancialgroup.net - theprincipal in a residential real estategroup, hopes to bring his children toReunion Weekend

’91Dylan Santiso –santiso@sanjacintotitle.com - BranchManager/Escrow Officer at San JacintoTitle Services on South Padre Island

’94SSG Sean Williams –sean.williams6@us.army.mil

‘02Chris Oakman –chris.oakman@gmail.com - recentlyaccepted a full time position withLiveLogic, a company dedicated tohelping businesses improve efficiency andmake solid decisions

’06 Nicholas Rhodes –nicholasrhodes@mcconnell.af.mil - hasbeen accepted to the Air Force AcademyClass of 2011, currently is theDeployment Coordinator at McConnellAir Force Base, Kansas

David Grant Porter Cooper,17, of Chattanooga, TN,passed away on Wednesday,Feb. 14, 2007. He was asophomore at The McCallieSchool in Chattanooga, TN.In 2004-2005, Davidattended the MarineMilitary Academy inHarlingen, TX. He attendedprimary schools in Orcas, WA,and Orinda, CA.

David was a kind and thoughtful young manwhose gentle spirit touched all who knew him.A gifted artist, he aspired to one day becomean architect. He was also a focused competitorwho participated on the McCallie crew and

wrestling teams. While atMMA, David participated insoccer and band. He alsocompleted his Eagle Scoutproject while there and wasnamed “Freshman Scout ofthe Year”. At Orcas HighSchool, he was a nationalfinalist in DestinationImagiNation, an internationalproblem-solving competition.

Survivors include his parents, Diane OdomCooper and Michael Edward Cooper; his twinbrother, Reid; older brother, Chase; younger sister,Brett; and beloved dog, Daisy. He was precededin death by his father, Don Edward Porter.

MARINE MILITARY ACADEMY sends heartfelt condolences to the Cooper family.

David Grant Porter Cooper

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ALUMNI REUNION 200730 MARCH-1 APRIL

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

THURSDAY, 29 MARCH 1330 EARLY BIRD ARRIVAL GOLF with Brigadier General Steve Cheney – President MMA

and Anthony McIntyre MMA 75, Chairman of the Marine Military Academy Board ofTrustees. (Intent to Golf must be received NLT 19 March)

FRIDAY, 30 MARCH 0830 Morning Colors Formation 0830-1000 Registration-Cadet Activities Center, Tour Campus 1000-1145 Remarks in CAC Theater by:

• Captain Bill Gary-Founder MMA• Brigadier General Steve Cheney• Anthony McIntyre

1200 Alumni review Corps of Cadets Pass In Review; Lunch in the Mess Hall 1315 C.J. Johnson MMA ‘82, Stage Hypnotist, presentation to Corps of Cadets – Yeckel Hall 1430-1530 Alumni present Alumni Lapel Pins to Seniors – CAC Theater

Alumni address underclassmen – Yeckel Hall 1700 Corps of Cadets Parade honoring Alumni, in conjunction with the Academy’s observance

of the 25th Anniversary–IWO JIMA Monument’s arrival; Alumni Memorial Servicefollowing Parade

1800-2000 Presidents Reception – Quarters 1

SATURDAY, 31 MARCH 0830-1000 Continental Breakfast – Cadet Activities Center 1030-1230 “A Back-40 Experience” PT gear recommended. 1230 Lunch Mess Hall 1330 Softball Game – Alumni vs. Cadets 1800 Alumni Dinner Harlingen Country Club – Cash Bar 1900 Dinner with entertainment to follow by THE MAGICIAN – C.J. Johnson MMA ‘82

SUNDAY, 1 APRIL 0830-1100 Brunch in the Mess Hall 1000-1200 Paintball War – Alumni vs. Cadets

Casual attire for weekend - Shirt w/collar and trousers for Presidents Reception and AlumniDinner. Meals at Mess Hall are at no charge for Alumni. DRIVE SAFELY!!!!!!!!!!!

DIRECT FEEDBACK FROM THE MMA ALUM CHATLINE following posting of theJanuary/February Leader:

George B. Murray - 12:56am Feb 5, 2007 - MMA ’83 B.Co. “Keep on keeping on.”The Plebes look as if they are having a constructive time. No rank, noribbons AND no emblem. Squaring corners aboard and bracing andasking by your leave 100+ times a day before earning THE emblem atPlebe graduation. That is and was a good morning. Still recall theapproximate air temp and the direction it was moving. Putting a handout to receive a handshake and one, color: black, description: garrisoncover emblem, type: MMA. -Going to the QM and signing for the others.Making my emblem card and stowing it on the front-right-corner on myT-shirt shelf in my uniform wall locker next to the rifle card. I won’t beforgetting that. -I hope this new class of Plebes get it also in terms ofthe high privilege of wearing it per MMA order 61-0. BTW, I think this

current Cadet Batt. Cmndr. Vincent Cervassi is among the best we’ve seen. What do yousay Matteson? You concur with that?

IN ACCORDANCE with 40 CFRPart 763 of the

Asbestos Hazard EmergencyResponse Act (AHERA) Section

736.93 pertaining to theAsbestos-in-School

Identification and Notification Rule,The Marine Military Academy

hereby notifies all concerned partiesof the availability of an

Asbestos Management Plan. The plan and a copy of

inspections and assessments areavailable for review during officehours, Monday through Friday, inthe Central Administrative Office.

Should any interested parties desireto view the plan, contact:

MMA Facilities Department.956-423-6006 Ext. 244facilities@mma-tx.org

MMA LEADERA monthly publication ofMMA PUBLIC AFFAIRS

OFFICE320 Iwo Jima Blvd.

Harlingen, Tx. 78550(956) 421-9235

Web Site: http://www.mma-tx.org

Email Address:wieland@mma-tx.org

PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICERDebbie L. Wieland

Calendar of EventsMemorials In Honor Of:

YOUR Opportunities to Support MARINE MILITARY ACADEMY

Scholarship Programs• General Scholarship• Endowed Scholarship Fund

Planned Giving• Charitable Gift Annuities• Establishment of Trusts• Bequests• Gift of Residence with Right to Use the Property

Visit personally with staff to determine which opportunity best fits your lifestyle by calling(956) 421-9231 or simply send your e-mail request to development@mma-tx.org.Credit card and check donations can be made anytime by visiting http://mma-tx.org/opportunities1.htm for on-line TAX-DEDUCTIBLE gifts by credit card.

Naming Opportunities

Brick Pavers

Memorial Trees

Athletic Equipment

Tax-Deductible Cash Donation

There’s a number of options available to you in support of MMA:

March19 Begin 4th Quarter30-4/1 Alumni Reunion 200730 Alumni Parade - 1600

April

13- 15 MMAPO ‘SPRING FLING’Info: firm@tipton-law.com

14 Ring CeremonyACT

20 Sports Banquet

May5 SAT

Re-Enrollment Contracts Due12,14-16 Second Semester Exams16 Financial Aid Applications Due17 Graduation Rehearsal18 Eagle Scout Ceremony

Academic Awards &8th Grade Graduation

19 Graduation Parade, AwardsGraduation

MARINE MILITARY ACADEMY VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION LUNCHEON FEBRUARY 22, 2007. Front Row, L-R: JAN HARTMAN, ELIZABETH HENDRICKS,BERNIE WILLIAMS, SHIRLEY MC DONALD, VIRGINIA WATERS, VIRGINIA HILL, ED SWANEY, BETTY MAC KENZIE. Middle Row, L-R: DICK STEENO,MONTE CATTERLIN, CAROLINE MACMANUS, AMY VAN DEEST, LYNN BLOEDORN, JANIS HAYES, RUTH WALTRIP, JODI HILL, ADDIE MC GEE, LINDAHUFFMAN, VYETTA LOSEY, RON LOSEY. Back Row, L-R: GARY LAUER, GEORGE LAUER, KURT LAUER, BOB HANSEN, JOE KIGHT, BOB BLOEDORN,DON VAN DEEST, JOHN HARTMAN, BOB KOMNICK, JOHN WALTRIP, HARRY REYNOLDS, ROGER DAVIS, SANDY REININGER, GENERAL CHENEY.

Cpl Harry J. Carpenter, USMC

George Caudill

David Grant Cooper

B. J. (Bobby Joe) Hendricks -former Museum Volunteer

Donald Madole - WWII USAFPilot, Indian Lake, TX

Joe Rogers

1st Lt David Zenoff - Adjutantof Marine Night FighterSquadron VMF (N) 542

SgtMaj Larry J. Carson, USMC(Ret) - MMA D-Co. DI

CWO3 Edward D. Harris, USMC(Ret) - MMA A-Co. DI

SgtMaj Albert S. Wilson, Jr.,USMC (Ret) - MMA G-Co. DI

To make a donation toMarine Military Academy

in memory or honor of, contactEster Reyes at (956) 421-9231 or

e-mail: reyes@mma-tx.org.