The University of Memphis Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps

TIGER CRUISE NEWSLETTER FALL 2011

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Cover Story - 2011 1 Freshmen Orientation 2011 Freshmen Orientation Professor of Naval 3 Science Executive Officer 4

3/c & 4/c Advisor 5

1/c & 2/c Advisor 6 Marine Officer 7 Instructor Assistant Marine Officer 8 Instructor Company Commander 8

Summer Cruise Articles 10

Colorado Relay 14

Tennessee Ragnar Relay 14 MIDN 1/c Miller gives instruction to the new midshipmen of the Class of 2015

Patriot Day Golf 15 This year’s Freshman Orientation, led haircuts and were on their way to Lit- by Officer Candidate Riccardo Hicks, tle Rock. LCpl Tim Creager 5k 16 was filled with seven days of introduc- Sea Service Ball 17 tion to military life. Nineteen incom- Upon arriving at LRAFB the new mid- ing Naval ROTC midshipmen complet- shipmen were introduced to their Memphis Air Show 17 ed the training, held primarily at Little troop handlers, Staff Sergeant Mat- Fundraiser Rock Air Force Base (LRAFB) in Ar- thew Ward, Midshipman 1/c Scott Commander Dunn’s kansas. The evolution began on the Miller, and Midshipman 3/c Katherine 18 Retirement morning of Saturday, 13 August 2011 Townsend. These three motivators carried out their assignments with JROTC Recruiting with introduction briefs by OC Hicks 18 Jamboree and Captain Robert Wickham, fol- professionalism and urgency in order lowed by the swearing in of the new to instill military bearing and motiva- Wisconsin Drill Meet 20 midshipmen by the Naval ROTC Mid- tion in the new students, while in- South Region Commanding Officer, structing them in military customs Blue Angles Display 21 Captain Kenneth Auten. From there and courtesies, and the conduct of AFROTC - NROTC the new midshipmen were issued uni- close order drill. 22 Flag Football forms and filled out administrative AROTC - NROTC paperwork. After lunch, the parents On four of the five mornings in Little 23 Flag Football left their students completely in the Rock, Sergeant Shane Kennelly led the hands of the orientation staff. The new freshmen and staff in physical training 9/11 Memorial 24 midshipmen then received their first (PT) sessions that consisted of stretch- Navy and Marine Corps regulation es, formation runs, and circuit cours- HENAAC College Bowl 24

TIGER CRUISE NEWSLETTER The new midshipmen also spent three mornings undergoing swim instruction and testing at the base pool. Led by the officers and as- sisted by a handful of students, the students all obtained a 3rd class swim qualification, with many progressing on and earning 2nd class as well.

On Thursday, the last day in Little Rock, the freshmen were instruct- ed on basic marksmanship by the staff at the base Small Arms Range. They then conducted a live fired range with the M16A2 ser- Test (PRT) for the Navy options. es. This served as a light introduc- vice rifle. A select few midship- After the PFT and PRT the new tion to the more rigorous PT ses- men were given the opportunity midshipmen had a uniform in- sions conducted during the school to fire the standard issue 9mm spection, close order drill evalua- year. Beretta service pistol. tion, and a graduation ceremony followed by the final event: a During their five days at LRAFB Friday morning SSgt Ward orga- BBQ. the freshmen were bombarded nized and led a Leadership Reac- with a massive amount of tion Course at the University of Overall, the new midshipmen per- knowledge. The classroom in- Memphis. The new midshipmen formed wonderfully, giving a posi- structors, Midshipman 2/c were organized into three and tive impression on the upcoming Beazley, Midshipman 2/c four person teams and rotated generation of Navy and Marine McAuley, and Midshipman 2/c through six stations. At each sta- Corps officers. tion a member of the team took Very Respectfully, the lead in ne- Shane M. Kennelly gotiating chal- Sgt, USMC lenging and NROTC, University of Memphis combat related obstacles.

The new mid- shipmen were then taken to Patriot Lake at Shelby Farms Park and given instruction on and an oppor- tunity to sail in our sailboats. This experience gave them an Herron taught classes on basic opportunity to Navy and Marine Corps enjoy one of the many activities knowledge ranging from history the University of Memphis Naval of each service to uniform regula- ROTC has to offer. tion and many other topics. Of- ficer Candidate Yoder, Officer Saturday morning the new mid- Candidate Niewald, Captain shipmen completed a Physical Wickham, and Lieutenant Jacobs Fitness Test (PFT) for the Marine also taught classes. options and a Physical Readiness

2 HTTP://WWW.MEMPHIS.EDU/NROTC/ FALL 2011 Professor of Naval Science

Greetings to The University of months. The midshipmen Memphis NROTC and your have tutored local 7th and 8th families! I am excited to be graders in math and science; your Commanding Officer organized a campus-wide and can think of no more re- blood drive; competed in drill warding tour than to serve competition in Madison, Wis- here at Naval ROTC Mid- consin; competed in the Ma- South, The University of rine Corps Marathon in Memphis. The unit that Cap- Washington, D.C.; competed tain John “Buzz” Sorce turned in a relay race though the over to me is a well-oiled ma- mountains of Colorado; and chine indeed! I look forward sponsored the Lance Corporal lead me to believe, without a to building on past successes Creager Memorial 5K Run doubt, that these midshipmen and milestones to reach even here on The University of truly exemplify Honor, Cour- higher levels of performance Memphis campus. We are age, and Commitment. and achievement. These are truly active force in student aggressive aspirations, but I life, in the local community, The above accomplishments have no doubt that our team and far beyond. notwithstanding, it is im- of midshipmen, active duty portant to remember that aca- students, dedicated NROTC Equally important, I am ex- demics are our number one staff, and supportive universi- tremely motivated by our new priority and will continue to ty officials can and will reach freshman class of midship- be so. Academics are fol- even higher. men 4/C who displayed an lowed by physical fitness/ impressive amount of enthu- readiness in importance. A This past summer and the siasm and drive during their sound mind and sound body current fall semester has been week-long indoctrination pro- are absolute necessities to be an action-packed one to say gram in early August. I could successful as Naval and Ma- the least. I could not be not have been more im- rine Corps officers. All the prouder of all of the accom- pressed by these new mid- rest is the “other half” of the plishments that the students shipmen and the midshipmen equation that enables the stu- have achieved in these few staff that trained them. They dents to become well- all conducted rounded, engaged leaders. I themselves with look forward to a superb rest an unprecedent- of the year and to beginning ed level of pro- 2012 at All Ahead Flank! fessionalism, military bear- Navy and Oorah Ma- ing, and leader- rine Corps! ship. The ac- Ken W. Auten complishments Captain, USN that these mid- Commanding Officer shipmen have NROTC, Mid-South Region already attained in my six months here

HTTPS://WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/NROTC.MEMPHIS 3 TIGER CRUISE NEWSLETTER Executive Officer’s Corner

fair share of challenges and re- tion Program for the newly ar- wards. One of the rewards was rived freshman. I was delight- working with and leading some ed in the way that our senior of the best and brightest young midshipmen staff conducted people – both officer and en- themselves while serving as listed – that our country has to drill instructors, motivators, offer. Some of the officers of physical training instructors, the MAINE wardroom were and, most importantly, leaders. products of the NROTC path to Moreover, I was equally im- their commission; all were top pressed with our incoming notch individuals! On one oc- freshmen class. Making a com- casion for a couple weeks the parison of them on the first day Welcome to an exciting year at “best and brightest” also in- of their indoctrination program the University of Memphis! I cluded several midshipmen to the last day, I must say, begin with a wish of “Fair from various NROTC units “What a remarkable difference Winds and Following Seas” to from around the country who seven days can make!” That Commander Dunn who turned were participating in their was my first impression of the over the reins of Executive Of- summer cruise. Because I did freshmen class, and they have ficer, Naval Reserve Officer not earn my own commission certainly continued to set the Training Corps (NROTC), Mid- via NROTC and because my bar very high for themselves in South Region, The University previous submarine assign- their future and for all future of Memphis, to me this past ments did not provide the op- freshmen classes. August. I reported aboard portunity to participate in mid- from the far away and exotic shipman summer cruise opera- While there is insufficient duty station of Millington, Ten- tions, I had very limited expo- space available to me in this nessee, – approximately 17 sure to the NROTC environ- article to expound on all the miles almost directly to the ment. What was clear from my activities and accomplishments north of my desk here on cam- own wardroom and from the of the unit since August, it will pus – where I had served as the visiting midshipmen was that have to suffice for me to convey Major Staff Placement Officer. the NROTC program produces that the unit has been involved Being the Major Staff Place- officers who are ready, willing, in a myriad of activities that ment Officer meant that I and able to carry out their mis- has earned them recognition as worked to ensure that the right sion upon commissioning and a group that makes a positive Naval officers were assigned at reporting to their assignment difference in campus life, the the right time to three- and in the Fleet or Fleet Marine local community, and even in four-star admiral staffs around Force. the broader societal sense. the world. Prior to coming to Tennessee, I served as Execu- I observed this same “ready- Finally, the initial article in this tive Officer of the USS MAINE willing-able” characteristic up- publication by the new Execu- (SSBN 741) (GOLD) which exe- on settling in at the NROTC tive Officer – pursuant to his cuted strategic deterrent pa- unit. Our active duty staff and roles as the lead training officer trols from her homeport in Sil- our civilian staff were immedi- and disciplinary officer – verdale, Washington. ately impressive. A few days would be remiss if it failed to later, I visited Little Rock Air mention the three primary ob- Serving as the Executive Of- Force Base in Jacksonville, Ar- stacles between each unit ficer of a nuclear-powered, bal- kansas, to observe the progress member and a commission. listic missile submarine had its of our Navy ROTC Indoctrina- The first obstacle is academic

4 HTTP://WWW.MEMPHIS.EDU/NROTC/ FALL 2011 performance, i.e., grades. The training sessions ensure the bers find themselves struggling bottom line is that the Navy program will get them there – with an obstacle, they know cannot and will not commis- provided that healthy diet they should tell any staff advi- sion a unit member who does choices are made on an indi- sor or me – and tell us sooner not earn a 4-yr degree with an vidual basis. The final obstacle rather than later. Part of our acceptable GPA. Fortunately, is discipline, which really job is to help them succeed and each student in the program is should be no obstacle at all. win! capable of exceeding that NROTC members must recog- standard -- provided that indi- nize that rules apply to them Make Smart Choices! vidual effort is put forth. The and that Naval and Marine Steve J. Skretkowicz second obstacle is the physical Corps Officers (and future Commander, USN readiness standard. Again, ones) are held to the highest of Executive Officer each student in the program is standards – be they in regards NROTC, Mid-South Region more than capable of exceeding to falsehoods, alcohol, hazing, the standard. NROTC physical harassment, etc. If unit mem- 3/c and 4/c Advisor

The fall 2011 semester has been This has been an inspiring se- non-stop excitement! We have mester; all are learning the entered into a fast-paced Battle meaning of time management! Rhythm with an NROTC event nearly every weekend. Yet, the The road to a commission is student chain of command has paved with good intentions and not bowed and all proceedings every semester a few more have gone off without fail. The midshipmen bite the dust and unit is running seamlessly this the strong continue to rise semester which is a testament through the ranks making the to the unresolved leadership of unit stronger and eventually the top four billets! adding a dedicated Sailor or Marine to the fleet. This is one of the finest fresh- As the recruiting officer I have man classes I’ve seen yet! They Being a Mustang (prior enlist- met with several probable stu- have hit the ground with a pos- ed and now commissioned of- dents and their parents inter- itive attitude and an eagerness ficer) and University of Mem- ested in the Naval and Marine to learn and grow. I look for- phis alum I’m proud of all the Corp ROTC program. I’ve ap- ward to seeing them hit the fleet experience that the Ma- preciated their heartwarming fleet! rine Corp Enlisted Commis- and supporting remarks and sioning Education Program- look forward to seeing these The midshipman are learning mers (MECEP) and the Sea- prospective students on a Navy at the speed of light and taking man to Admiral Officer Candi- or Marine Corp Scholarship. what they learn and quickly dates (STA-21) bring to the Na- teaching the lower class. They val ROTC unit. They act as role Very Respectfully, are learning the significance of models to our beginning mid- Michael S. Jacobs the chain of command and how shipman and provide them Lieutenant, USN to effectively utilize it! They are with insight, guidance, and 3/c & 4/c Advisor NROTC, The University of Memphis learning the importance of suc- wisdom to be successful in the ceeding together as a group! fleet.

HTTPS://WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/NROTC.MEMPHIS 5 TIGER CRUISE NEWSLETTER 1/c and 2/c Advisor

press in enough words how ex- that a midshipman does a great cited and proud I am to be job, that academic bar gets here. It has been a very busy 7 pushed up a little higher. The months and the midshipmen better a midshipmen’s grades have already done some fantas- are, the more doors they will tic things here at the unit, as have available for them to walk well as out in the fleet. through.

This past summer, a few of our I also have the distinct privi- midshipmen got a firsthand lege of being in charge of ser- look at what life in the fleet was vice assignments for the mid- like. Some of these experiences shipmen when they become Hello parents, friends, and included a submarine cruise seniors. This is where I submit midshipmen of NROTC Uni- out of Pearl Harbor, HI, an air- their paperwork to either be- versity of Memphis. I cannot craft carrier cruise on the USS come a submarine warfare of- wait to tell you about all of the Carl Vinson (CVN-70), an am- ficer, surface warfare officer, exciting things that we have phibious ship cruise in NYC naval aviator or flight officer. I done this semester but first let during , as well as am very pleased to announce me quickly introduce myself. numerous other cruises out of that all 5 of this year’s graduat- Norfolk, VA, and Mayport, FL. ing seniors received their first I am from Buffalo, NY and The midshipmen who were choice Navy job. Officer Candi- graduated from Virginia Tech able to attend these summer date Hicks will be a Naval via NROTC in 2006. I attended cruise training programs re- Flight Officer, MIDN Jamison nuclear power school in ceived invaluable fleet experi- will be a Pilot, Officer Candi- Charleston, SC and Navy Nu- ence where they were able to date Niewald and MIDN clear Propulsion Training Unit see what it is like to be an en- Snypes will be surface warfare (Prototype) in Saratoga listed service member, an of- officers, and Officer Candidate Springs, NY. Upon graduating ficer, a nurse, a pilot and/or a Johnson will be an information from prototype, I went to a submariner. warfare officer. Congratula- Submarine Officer Basic tions to the graduating seniors! Course in Groton, CT and re- Although summer cruises are They earned their designations ported aboard the fast attack extremely fun and probably a through hard work, dedication, submarine, USS MIAMI (SSN midshipman’s favorite part of enthusiasm, and most im- 755) in 2008, home ported in their time here, it is far from portantly, good grades. Groton. I completed an 8 the most important aspect of month Northern Atlantic de- the program. A midshipman’s Very Respectfully, ployment to the European area academic performance is al- Edward J. May of responsibility and conducted ways the highest priority and is Lieutenant, USN port calls in Scotland, Norway, the key to successfully open 1/c & 2/c Advisor and England. In April of 2011, their doors into the Navy. Dur- NROTC, The University of Memphis I reported to the University of ing the Spring 11 semester, my st nd Memphis to be the 1 and 2 rising seniors (1st Class m mid- class advisor. shipmen now) had an average GPA of a 3.20! That is an out- I have been at NROTC MID- standing average! As always SOUTH for approximately 7 though, there is still room for months now, and I cannot ex- improvement and every time

6 HTTP://WWW.MEMPHIS.EDU/NROTC/ FALL 2011 Why Leadership Hurts

As each and everyone of you Leadership is not about sitting knows, the Naval Reserve Of- at the top and telling everyone ficers Training Corps (ROTC) else below you what to do. program is a place where mid- Leadership is about being there shipmen can start to under- for your subordinates, doing stand and develop important what is right by them, and en- leadership skills, and where suring that they have what they active duty enlisted Sailors and need in order to get the job Marines can start to under- done. Often times leaders have stand the difference between the misconception that those enlisted leadership and officer under their charge are there to leadership. From Naval Sci- make them look good and to do ence classes to the billets that what they are told. This cannot that will determine if you are a you hold within the student be your reasoning for wanting good leader, or an outstanding company, everything that you to become a naval officer. You one. do while you are in the Naval should always take the stance ROTC program is meant to that you work for your subordi- I believe that our program here help facilitate your develop- nates and that it is your job to at The University of Memphis ment as future ensigns and se- do what is right by them. is one of the best in the coun- cond lieutenants. With that in Sometimes this will place you try. We force our students to mind, there is only so much in a position where you will be look internally and identify that the Naval ROTC program forced to make hard decisions. their weaknesses and flaws, can teach you. At some point Sometimes this will mean that and then demand and motivate you have to start embodying you will have to place your sub- them to figure out ways to seek the leadership traits and prin- ordinate’s needs above those of self improvement. Sometimes ciples and understanding that yourself and your family. this requires better time man- leadership is not a nine to five These are the tough decisions agement on your part, while at job, but rather one that re- that you will someday be con- other times it may require you quires your undivided atten- fronted by, and this is some- to make quick and timely deci- tion 24/7/365 and that will thing that is impossible to rep- sions based on little infor- help you to make the right de- licate here at the ROTC. That mation while using your best cisions. is why it is so important that judgment. By forcing you to you understand that the deci- tackle tough decisions here, You should be able to look sions and choices you make each member of this program yourself in the mirror and see if here are easy in comparison will enter the fleet as a better you truly embody what it with the decisions and choices ensign and second lieutenant. means to be a leader. Can you you will have to make in the honestly say that every deci- fleet. , sion that you have made this Robert W. Wickham semester has lived up to the The ultimate factor that you Captain, USMC honor, courage and commit- will someday have to weigh is Marine Officer Instructor NROTC, The University of Memphis ment that are the hallmarks of that you are going to be put in the naval services? If not, why a position where you will have not? If so, then have you to make life and death deci- helped others around you to do sions not only for yourself, but the same? I hope so. for those under your com- mand. It is those decisions

HTTPS://WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/NROTC.MEMPHIS 7 TIGER CRUISE NEWSLETTER Commitment

vember the 11th with regards to enough to make the trip back, the relationship of Veterans but they invited us to join them Day and Memorial Day. “Why and made adjustments for din- do we celebrate our fallen ner. The evening was met with Hero’s on Veterans Day?” Vet- handshakes, camaraderie and erans Day honors those who war stories you just can’t find have or are currently serving in in books. Everyone in the de- the armed forces, it originally tail left with a token of the cer- applied to the World War I and emony. However, the best take II. We know it to apply to all away was the fellowship with battles now. Memorial Day those who have served faithful- honors those who have died in ly and remained friends for One of the most notable efforts active military service. Howev- over 40 years. These are the of the Memphis NROTC would er, it is hard to think of Veter- values that make us fight bat- have to be our ability to volun- ans Day without thoughts of tles and win. When you see a teer for events. I would agree those who have made the ulti- Veteran in your future, as a that it is a difficult challenge to mate sacrifice for our country. Marine or a Sailor, take the balance both academic and free time to engage in conversation. time, but as a unit we continue The most rewarding event this The values we learn from the to find time to help the com- semester for me was the Ma- Veterans of the past absolutely munity, to include a barrage of rine Corps Birthday Ball with define our future! color guard events. Being un- the Vietnam Veterans of 2nd selfish in these efforts displays Marines, 1st Division. The Mid- Semper Fidelis, an important trait of those who shipmen had the honors of pre- Frank B. Kammer are inspired to be leaders. senting the Colors and escort- Gunnery Sergeant / USMC ing the cake during the cere- Assistant Marine Officer Instructor I was asked a question from mony. The praise for ceremo- NROTC, University of Memphis several Midshipmen on No- ny alone would have been Company Commander

With the Fall 2011 semester day-to-day task of the entire coming to a close, I must say, company to oversight of having the opportunity to NROTC hosted events, I have serve as Company Command- developed a true taste of an ing Officer of The Naval Re- officers’ responsibility in the serve Offices Training Corps fleet. has been one of the most humbling, educational, and First and foremost I would worthwhile engagements I like to thank the members of have experienced in my mili- Golf Company. Your hard tary career. With responsibili- work and dedication cannot ties spanning from managing be overstated. You have put in countless hours of service to this command and without

8 HTTP://WWW.MEMPHIS.EDU/NROTC/ FALL 2011 your perseverance and deter- that, remember that you are Naval Officer, I would like to mination nothing that we ac- held to a higher standard and thank you for allowing me to complished this semester your conduct is being watched be your Company Command- would have been possible. even when you don’t think it er. It has been a great experi- Next, I would like to recog- is. Therefore, do the right ence, one that I will never for- nize the company staff: Com- things, for the right reasons, get. Thank you again, Golf pany Gunnery Sergeant even when no one is watch- Company, for your hard work MIDN 1/C Miller, Company ing. and dedication. Senior Chief MIDN 1/C I will leave you with this Jamison, and Company Exec- Next, ask the question. If you “Teamwork is the ability to utive Officer OC Niewald. are not sure why something is work together toward a com- Each of these individuals has the way it is or why a deci- mon vision, the ability to di- executed their command bil- sions was made, ask the ques- rect individual accomplish- let with the upmost diligence tion. If you are the one whom ments toward organizational and respect. As a command- the question is being asked objectives. It is the fuel that ing officer I was truly fortu- and you don’t know the an- allows common people to at- nate to have such an awesome swer, find it! When you get tain uncommon results. And staff. out to the fleet you’re not ex- team work is what you have pected to know everything, been great at. Good luck on As I retire my position to the however, you are expected to your future endeavors in the next company commander, I know how to find it. Once NROTC program, in the fleet, would like to leave Golf Com- you tell your people you don’t and in life! HOOYAH NAVY pany with a few parting words know something and don’t AND MARINE CORPS!!!! of wisdom. First, we are a find out the answer, they will family. No matter what hap- loose respect for you. Very Respectfully, pens out there in school, in Riccardo Hicks the fleet, and in life remember Lastly, this is college so have Officer Candidate / USN that we are a family and we fun. There are a lot of things Company Commander take care of our own. Fight for to do at the University of NROTC, University of Memphis what you believe is right for Memphis and at Christian your people and they will Brothers University so take fight for you. the time to get out there and have some fun. Second, integrity is free so don’t abuse it. You are apart As I finish up my classes this of the military 24 hours a day, spring and prepare to begin 7 days a week. Having said my life as a Commissioned

HTTPS://WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/NROTC.MEMPHIS 9 TIGER CRUISE NEWSLETTER cess. The first event was the Physical Screening Test (PST) Summer Cruise Articles which consists of a 500 yard swim, push-ups, sit-ups, pull- ups, and a 1.5 mile run. Fol- 1/c Summer Cruise at first, but as the course pro- lowing the PST we received in- Officer Candidate School gresses, most of the stress is struction on snorkeling for the self induced by themselves or next two hours. During our This summer Staff Sergeant the other candidates in their indoctrination we learned how Ward, Sergeant Bratcher, Mid- platoon or company. What you to clear our mask of water shipman 1/c Miller, and I had learn at the ROTC unit will while remaining under the sur- the opportunity to attend the help prepare you for OCS as face, basic hand communica- Bulldog Course of Officer Can- long as you pay attention, take tion underwater, as well as didates School (OCS) in Quan- good notes, and apply what you learning how to dive with the tico, Virginia. Staff Sergeant learn. Then, you should be snorkel. The next day we had Ward and Midshipman Miller successful. Remember that it our first real Physical Training went to the first increment is not about you, your physical (PT) session that was led by the from 26 May to 8 July, while conditioning, or whether your Command Master Chief of Sergeant Bratcher and I went platoon is the best at drill, it is TEUTWO. We started off with in to the second increment about the Marines that you a short mile run to the nearest from 9 July to 20 August. may one day lead and the more sand dune at which time we Without giving away any of the you put out at OCS than the then proceeded to complete secrets of OCS, it started off less those Marine’s lives will be sprints up the dune. We then slow with in-processing but at risk. continued on our journey for picked up quickly once we were another two miles to a lake picked up by our training com- Very Respectfully, where we made a quick stop to pany’s. We were soon greeted James M. Bilyard do bear crawls, buddy carries, by what they call the “fire hose Midshipman 1/c / USMCR squat jumps, and lunges effect”, dealing with numerous NROTC, University of Memphis around the perimeter of the hours of classroom, followed lake. After our quick detour to by numerous hours of practical the lake we found our way to application in the field. On top the beach and had some fun in of that, there was physical 1/c Summer Cruise the sun doing some good PT training sessions that included Explosive Ordinance for a little while. After we all received a good tan we made numerous formation runs, and Disposal the dreaded Obstacle Course our way back to the unit and it was just the start of the day. and Endurance Course. Each This summer I traveled to Nor- day we learned something new Towards the end of the day we folk, Virginia to participate in had a competition between the and each day provided numer- both Explosive Ordinance Dis- ous learning experiences from ROTC midshipmen and Acade- posal (EOD) and Surface War- my midshipmen. A small ob- both failures and successes; fare summer cruises. Ten mid- which were mostly failures at stacle course was setup in the shipmen, five from various Na- EOD unit for us to run while first, but as the candidates be- val ROTC units and five from came more comfortable in be- wearing the bomb suit. The the Naval Academy, reported objective: have all five mem- ing competent leaders success to Explosive Ordinance Dispos- soon followed. The mission of bers of the team complete the al Training and Evaluation course in the suit before the OCS is to train, screen, and Unit Two (EODTEU2) located evaluate prospective officers in other team. The course was Naval Amphibious Base Little short, a small run to pick up a the Marine Corps and does so Creek/Fort Story on 25 June by inducing stressful situa- packbot (one of the EOD ro- 2011 to begin a very rigorous bots for disarming bombs, tions. Most of the stress comes and demanding screening pro- from the Sergeant Instructors weight 30lbs) carry the pack-

10 HTTP://WWW.MEMPHIS.EDU/NROTC/ FALL 2011 bot 30yds, head outside and to and a great learning experi- sights I had ever seen in my the back of the building to ence. I learned a lot about the entire life. All in all it was a complete ten pull-ups, run Navy as well as a lot about my- great training that challenged back in and pick up a 50lb self. me both mentally and physical- sandbag, run 30yds again, then ly and left me motivated to back to the staging area to Very Respectfully, pursue a commission as a Ma- change over and send orf the Craig R. Allen rine Corps officer. next team member. While with Midshipman 1/c / USNR the training unit we also had NROTC, University of Memphis Very Respectfully, an opportunity to learn some Brandon J. McAuley ground fighting from a Mixed Midshipman 2/c / USMCR Martial Arts Instructor who NROTC, Univesrity of Memphis trains members of TEUTWO 2/c Summer Cruise on how to handle aggressive Mountain Warfare opponents when conventional Training weapons are not an option. 2/c Summer Cruise Lastly, our team was assigned For this summer’s training, Submarine Warfare various tasks to complete such Midshipman 2/c Schmitz, Mid- as creating ten 50lb sandbags. shipman 2/c Beazley and I This summer I attended Se- These tasks would be assigned traveled to Bridgeport, Califor- cond Class Midshipman train- with the only instruction being nia for ten days of training at ing in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. I to have them done by a certain the Marine Corps Mountain spent one week underway time. Next, we reported to Mo- Warfare Training Center aboard the Virginia Class sub- bile Unit 2 (MU2) where we (MWTC). There were approxi- marine USS Hawaii (SSN 776). had some more fun. The first mately 253 Second Class Ma- During this week five other day started out with a uniform rine option midshipmen pre- midshipmen and I learned inspection at 0500 followed by sent from all over the country. about various pieces of equip- an hour of PT, then a PST, then Even our own MOI, Captain ment, ship safety and maneu- two hours on an obstacle Wickham was there as a com- vering, wartime procedures, course, then we had the chance pany commander. We got to and general life aboard a sub- to go to the beach again and experience the effects that marine. During my time under- work on our tans that were thousands of feet of elevation way I was instructed to explore starting to wear off from the can have on someone who is the ship and encouraged to ask previous week. not use to it. With less oxygen, the crew questions about the From EOD I reported to the it was like trying to breathe systems on board, their opin- USS Eisenhower (CVN-69). through a straw when we tried ions about the submarine, as After a week of preparation we to do anything physical de- well as the Navy lifestyle in pulled out of port and sailed manding. We got to do a lot of general. Some of the things about 200 miles off the coast cool things at MWTC including that the other midshipmen and somewhere east of North Caro- top roping (rock climbing), I participated in included: tak- lina. While at sea the carrier rappelling, survival training, ing readings on depth, course, qualified pilots from the stu- knot tying, one-rope bridge and speed on various comput- dent squadron VFA-106 who crossing, land navigation dur- ers. We were given the oppor- were learning how to land F/A- ing both the day and night, and tunity to both pilot the ship 18’s on a carrier. The pilots eating delicious meals ready to and take the Con where we performed exceptionally eat (MRE’s) for breakfast, stood as the OOD, officer of the around the clock completing lunch and dinner. My favorite Deck, and gave orders for ship day and night landings. Life on part of the whole mountain maneuvering. We were taught the carrier was very fast paced; warfare training was the views about the nuclear reactor on there was always something of that beautiful country. There board as well as the propulsion going on. Overall, my first were some of the most amazing system, given opportunities to class cruise was very exciting

HTTPS://WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/NROTC.MEMPHIS 11 TIGER CRUISE NEWSLETTER sit in Sonar control and take I enjoyed while on my Summer The cruise is what you make it. readings on contacts, and then 2011 Midshipman Cruise. You can choose to sit in your were sent to Fire Control to get bunk all day, or you can choose a firing solution on that con- First I had to fly to Hong Kong to go out and explore, especial- tact. We participated in several to meet the aircraft carrier USS ly if you do not have a specific drills with the crew including Carl Vinson in order to take job like I did not. I wandered firefighting drills, severe ma- that across the Pacific Ocean to where I pleased as long as I did neuvering drills, and angles Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. It was not get in the way of any opera- and dangles where the ship is probably the longest 15 days of tions. I asked all sorts of ques- taken to extreme up and down my life I have ever experience tions from numerous people angles, sometimes up to 30 de- so far. There were 4600 people while out wandering. I wan- grees up or down. At the end of total on the carrier the whole dered through the hangar bays the week we were given the way back to Pearl Harbor. We and flight deck, up to the rare opportunity to participate passed through the Philippines bridge and tower, and out to in an emergency blow where and even though we only saw the navigation area. Wherever we were submerged underwa- an island that was part of it, it I wanted to go, I could go. I ter, blew all the water out of was still good to know that I spent most of my time looking the ballast tanks thus making have been over in that area and out from the navigation area us positively buoyant, and ris- it was extremely exciting. We because it was outside and un- ing to the surface rapidly and also, along the way, passed the believable to look at things go- flying out of the water when we famous Wake Island that was a ing on around you. hit the surface. This cruise past major deal in WWII, along my expectations for the trip with Midway Island. However, My favorite place to stand on and gave me a very in depth we passed those two at night so the ship was either the flight look into Navy life and more it was not possible to see any deck or up by the bridge, but specifically the life of a Subma- part of them. outside. You were able to see riner. It was both informative everything going on, from op- and very fun and was a great At the end of the cruise we erations on the deck, to other experience that I was privi- were pulling into Pearl Harbor ships that were around us, and leged to have been given the and as a tradition, enlisted then the obvious ocean and opportunity to enjoy. men and officers line the edge how clear it was in the middle of the ship in their white uni- of nowhere. I loved simply Very Respectfully forms in honor of the USS Ari- standing there, not having a Robert Lyons zona. Well, we were asked if we care in the world and just Midshipman 2/c / USNR would like to do that, and I said watching whatever was going NROTC, University of Memphis yes of course. I got up and put on. No, seasick is not a part of on my whites and went out to my makeup, but homesick did the hangar bay and there were happen quite often. And even hundreds of people in whites. though I got homesick after a 2/c Summer Cruise We assembled and went up on week or so on the ship, there Surface Warfare one of the carrier's elevators were guys there who had fami- and then spread out. Coming in lies who had been gone since So, it was my first time being to and saluting the USS Arizona Thanksgiving. I cannot imagine an Asian country and even sent goose bumps and shivers what that would be like, but I though I spent it in the airport, all over the body. The sight was did get a little taste of it. it was an exciting experience. I amazing even though it was would go back in a heartbeat misting a little bit. Needless to I met the Admiral and probably will at some say, it was thoroughly an en- and Executive Officer of the point during a later part in my joyable and memorable experi- carrier. For the XO we just sat life. However, the topic of this ence. down and talked about what he writing is to describe my expe- does, and any other questions rience and portray a lot of what we had for him. With the Ad-

12 HTTP://WWW.MEMPHIS.EDU/NROTC/ FALL 2011 miral though, we had a very Very Respectfully was amazing and the crew was nice dinner with him cooked by Patrick Lippert very knowledgeable about their his own chefs. The food was the Midshipman 2/c / USNR jobs. I saw first hand the strong best there was on the ship, and NROTC, University of Memphis pride and passion that they we got to talk to the Admiral have for their jobs, the Navy, like he was an ordinary guy. He and their country. My third was really down to earth and week was Submarine week. I quite honest with us regarding 3/c Summer Cruise went underway for one day and some of the questions other Career Orientation and was able to experience angles midshipmen had asked. It was Training for Midshipmen and dangles, driving the sub, a very nice dinner and a very and learning about the ballistic nice evening. Career Orientation and Train- capabilities of a submarine. My ing for Midshipmen final week was Aviation week. We were in a meeting with pi- (CORTRAMID) is the only Midshipmen were allowed to lots from different squadrons summer training opportunity fly in helicopters; tour the Air- and we got to ask them ques- that both Navy and Marine op- craft Carrier, USS Carl Vinson tions about flying, flight school, tion midshipmen share. Rising (CVN-70); run through the Na- etc. When it ended, I hung sophomores, and sometimes vy Seal O-Course; and fly in a T around and talked with the one juniors, gain detailed hands-on -34C aircraft, experiencing up pilot I thought was the most experience of what the Navy to four times the force of gravi- interesting and who I thought and Marine Corps have to of- ty. gave the best advice. I got on a fer. I not only had a great expe- first name basis with him and rience, but also gained many Overall, CORTRAMID is a he said we could chill whenev- lifelong friendships and a true great experience. It takes mid- er. So one day I asked if he admiration for the Sailors and shipmen away from their could show me around his Marines that I will someday NROTC units and shows them Prowler and he said I could. He lead. During the summer of what military life is really like. was pretty chill. So we just 2011 I was afforded a great op- The experience that I had walked out to the flight deck portunity to go to CORTRA- helped show me what I can ex- one evening and he told me MID West in San Diego, CA; pect when I receive my com- about what the jet does and I the furthest place away from mission and gave me a better asked if I could sit in it. He said home I have traveled so far in idea of what I want to do in the yes, so I got up in the pilot’s my life. Navy. seat, and then moved to the seat that he sits in. Basically, The University of Memphis Very Respectfully, talk to whoever is out there and Naval ROTC midshipmen were Ulysses D. Hunt get a feel for what they do, amongst the best midshipmen Midshipman 2/c / USNR their opinions, advice, and just at CORTRAMID West. My NROTC, University of Memphis make friends. At the end, first week was spent with the though long, the cruise was Marines. During this week I very enjoyable and one experi- was declared the Pugil Sticks ence I will never forget. Next champion and was also award- summer I have one more cruise ed a Meritorious Mast for be- to do, and I think I will take ing the platoon commander part in a Foreign Cruise, mean- and for representing my unit ing I will be on a different with professionalism and disci- country’s vessel. I look forward pline. The second week was to what God has in store for me Surface Warfare week, where I next summer and whenever my went underway for 3 days on career starts going. the amphibious assault ship, USS Peleliu (LHA-5). The ship

HTTPS://WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/NROTC.MEMPHIS 13 TIGER CRUISE NEWSLETTER being just above 8000 feet, and the highest elevation being just Colorado Relay above 12,000 feet. Even if you are fast runner in Memphis you were still put to the test From August 25 to August 28, through any weather condi- with the terrain, elevation twelve students and staff mem- tions. This race was a true test changes, and very thin air. The bers from the University of of everyone’s endurance and best part of the race were the Memphis Naval and Army team work. views that runners had while ROTC units participated in running their legs and truly Colorado Relay. The race was Only one runner from the team made this a remarkable race. 195 miles long in the Colorado was allowed to run at a time as Even when runners were strug- Mountains, starting at the rest of the team gave their gling to keep their legs moving, Breckenridge running to Aspen support. Each runner had looking at mountain ranges -Snowmass. This was a 24- three legs to run and was given and landforms that are unex- hour race with no breaks which a map to find their way to the plainable keeps you motivated. means the runners continued next check point. Even though While our team ran with mixed all through the night and we were in the mountains it students from the Navy and was still con- Army, it in a sense was a great siderably hot way to build camaraderie. It during the takes a lot a motivation to keep day, whereas your team going when every- at night it was one averages about 20 miles of pretty cool, running. This race is an experi- meaning the ence that should be tried by all runners had to who enjoy an intense challenge be prepared of their physical fitness. for any condi- tions. The ele- Very Respectfully, vation was de- Anthony J. Freda fiantly the big- Midshipman 3/c gest challenge NROTC, University of Memphis with an aver- age elevation

Friday November 4th marked the first time students, and two staff members, of the Naval Tennessee Ragnar Relay ROTC unit competed in a relay race hosted by Ragnar Relay and also competed in Tennes- van 1 was driven by Gunnery leave the Memphis area on see. The Race itself was a 196- Sergeant Kammer and had Thursday, stay overnight in mile course from Chattanooga, Midshipmen (MIDN) Shook, Chattanooga, and start the race TN to Nashville, TN and mostly Becton, Grace, McAuley, at 0800 EST while Van 2 left followed Highway 41A, a two Wood, and Stahlhuth running the Memphis area at 0530 to lane road winding through the while van 2 had Officer Candi- start their leg at 1230 CST. Tennessee hills and towns. date Judy driving and Captain The team was comprised of Wickham, MIDN Schmitz, Dra- I was not in Van 1 but the twelve motivated individuals peau, Bilyard, Marsh, and Mil- mood was high in Van 2 lead- whom were then divided into ler running. Since Van 1 was ing up to the race as we looked two vans with six runners each: the first to run they had to forward to our legs and also

14 HTTP://WWW.MEMPHIS.EDU/NROTC/ FALL 2011 mentally prepared ourselves. 60ºF during Most of us in the second van the day which had done the Colorado Relay left the runners before and were already pre- warmed up pared for the long legs and during the run running multiple times in a 24- but quickly hour time span. The runs cooled down themselves were not as bad as afterward. they were in Colorado, but all Overall each twelve of us took our runs seri- person's run- ously and it eventually brought ning legs varied us into first place. The start of in distance, the day was very exciting with ranging from pre-race tensions and anticipa- 1.6 miles to 8.9 tion, but also as there was miles, but for each runner the -30 minutes past his projected many interesting and eccentric distance was fairly consistent run time but we all crossed the people at the event. As the day from leg to leg. finish line together and fin- turned into night our team ished first in Public Services slowly overtook other runners, When the team met up for the category and 18th overall. totaling 21 at one point, and we last time in Nashville you could took the lead throughout most feel the excitement and tension The Tennessee Ragnar Relay of the race but understood that in the air, due to other teams Race was definitely an enjoya- there were faster teams that being there and expecting their ble experience and our all-star started after us and could be runner to pop around the cor- team made the race flow coming in at quicker times ner but mostly because we had smoothly in running and coor- than we were. gained a 10-15 minute lead on dination, I look forward to the the other teams. However, as one in Florida and am confi- The time between each van teams we had passed and dent that we will have an even changing over runners varied teams we had not even seen better and faster team. from 5 to 7 hours which left before crossed the finish line time to sleep, eat, and most im- we realized that MIDN Miller, Very Respectfully, portantly relax. The tempera- our anchor, had gotten lost in James M. Bilyard ture throughout the race was the down town streets of Nash- Midshipman 1/c / USMCR between 35ºF at night and ville. He eventually came in 25 NROTC, University of Memphis

even demonstrating the proper golf courtesies such as staying out of sight and shutting off the engine Patriot Day Golf when a golfer was teeing off. Just about everything went smoothly The University of Memphis Naval sisting of four members that and on time. There were lots of sales, and even more donations ROTC unit sent volunteers to go worked two hours shifts each. The and help out with the Patriot Day Naval ROTC volunteers were received that went towards the charity. Overall the entire event Golf Tournament held at Galloway tasked with driving around in two Golf Course on 2 September 2011. golf carts and selling beverages to was a success and a great way for the Naval ROTC unit to give back The Patriot Day Golf Tournament the golfers. Every drink was sold is an annual golf tournament that for a dollar a piece and a general to the community and to the fami- lies of fallen service members. helps raise money for scholarships request for two dollars a drink was for families who have had to en- asked so that one half of every pur- Very Respectfully , dure the harsh reality of losing a chase would go to the scholarship. family member in combat. There The Naval ROTC volunteers re- Darian E. Hughes Midshipman 4/c were two shifts, one consisting of mained professional and respect- five members and the other con- ful throughout the tournament, NROTC, University of Memphis

HTTPS://WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/NROTC.MEMPHIS 15 TIGER CRUISE NEWSLETTER LCpl Tim Creager Memorial 5k

On July 1, 2004 in Anbar Prov- goodies. While waiting on the race ince, Iraq, a man gave the ulti- to begin, participants enjoyed the mate sacrifice for his country. sound of our own in-house disc Even though he had received a full jockey, DJ Spider – a.k.a Sergeant scholarship to the Citadel, he felt Shane Kennelly. A breakfast of the call to enlist in the United donuts and fruit were also made States Marine Corps. While ful- available to the runners along filling his dreams of becoming a with Gatorade and water. Thirty Marine, this young man was killed minutes before the race began, an did we have the pleasure of the Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, and by enemy combatants while con- invocation was given by Midship- ducting combat operations in Iraq man 4/c Parrish and the national Young Republicans who came and at the age of 21. This inspiring anthem was sung by Ms. Morgan supported our race as volunteers; we also had fifty children from man is Lance Corporal Timothy Reynolds. Following the national Creager of Millington, Tennessee, anthem, a four plane flyover was Youth Villages, a nonprofit organ- and we had the honor of hosting executed with an Extra, RV-4, ization to help children with emo- tional and behavioral problems the 6th Annual Lance Corporal Rocket, and another R-4 over the overcome their challenges and Timothy Creager 5k on November Alumni Mall area. After the 12, 2011. This was the first year “missing man” flyover was con- live successfully with their fami- lies, come to support and partici- that the University of Memphis ducted, the runners were ushered pate the 5k. As each participate Naval Reserve Officers Training to the start line where the ten rid- Corps has hosted the race. The ers from the Patriot Guard lead crossed the line, he or she was course began on Walker Avenue the group along the streets of greeted by the music of a live band, the Impeccable Miscreants. and weaved through campus and Memphis. Midshipmen lined the finished on the Alumni Mall course on the interior of the cam- As people waited for results, they where all the festivities were held. pus while girl scouts handed out had the options to compete in the pull-up competition and bid in the The morning started off with reg- water and boy scouts were at the istration, where participants finish line to cheer on all the par- silent auction for various items; picked up their dri-fit shirt and ticipants. Memphis Runners including a bowling party, free rounds of golf, and a portrait gift bags filled with an assortment Track Club timed and recorded of gifts, coupons, and other sort the results for the race. Not only package. As time winded down, we had the honor of meeting two Marines that were in Lance Cor- poral Creager’s unit and having his family there as we paid tribute to him. A moment of silence was held in memory of Lance Corporal Creager before we moved on to announce the winners for each category. After it was all said and done, we had 219 participants register for the race which not on- ly made the day successful, but one that will be remember for a long time to come.

Very Respectfully, Megan C. Wilson Midshipman 2/c / USNR NROTC, University of Memphis

16 HTTP://WWW.MEMPHIS.EDU/NROTC/ FALL 2011 This year the University of Memphis Naval Reserve Of- ficer Training Corps was able Sea Service Ball to celebrate the birthdays of the and the Marine Corps at the Woodland conversations as people arrived the first piece of cake. After Hills Event Center. This ball at the venue. The guest speak- the ceremonies we had dinner, was different from any ball that er for the evening was Mr. Mi- which was buffet style, and I have been to because each chael Zingale. He served in the then toasting to give tribute to fire team had to create their United States Marine Corps our chain of command, respec- own centerpiece and this was during World War Two as a tive services, and also the other also the second year in a row Aerial Recon Photographer. branches as well. After dinner that female midshipmen were During his time in the Marine and the toasts finished Sgt allowed to wear formal dresses Corps he participated in the Kennelly, also known as DJ to our ball. The centerpieces major campaigns across the Spider, kicked off the music quickly became the center of Pacific, including Iwo Jima and and dancing part of the even- Guam. Mr. Zingale’s ing. With DJ Spider at the speech was the high- helm we had an endless supply light of the evening, of music to dance to and ended since he was telling the evening on a good note. us stories from the For my last Sea Service Ball campaigns that he with the University of Mem- went on. After the phis I would not have had it speeches was the any other way. cake cutting ceremo- ny, as traditionally Very Respecttfully, the youngest and Ashley N. Snypes oldest member of the Midshipman 1/c / USNR command will have NROTC, University of Memphis

the third team continued to fill up the remaining large sand- Memphis Airshow Fundraiser bags with sand. The plan was well executed and all the tasks were completed in just three On 10 September 2011, 40 mid- began. hours, well ahead of schedule. shipmen, Officer Candidates, and MECEPs head up to the The unit tackled the mission by The airshow personnel were Millington Regional Airport to splitting into three teams in or- gracious for our support and help layout large sheets of plas- der to accomplish the tasks at were very impressed with the tic that will be used by the Navy hand with the most efficiency. speed, intensity and profession- Blue Angle Flight Demonstra- The first team headed out to the alism with which we worked. tion Team as visual markers north end of the air field and The work done that day, alt- during the Memphis Air Show unwrapped five large sheets of hough it was a small piece in on 17 and 18 September. Upon plastic and anchored them the overall plan of the airshow, exiting their vehicles, the stu- down with sandbags. Mean- proved integral to the success of dents were greeted by a local while, the second team drove the event. group of Boy Scouts heading along the area where the re- the volunteer effort. The Scout- maining sheets of plastic were Very Respecttfully, master in charge of the project going to be laid down and pre- Michael F. Shook explained the day’s events to staged sandbags in piles of five Midshipman 4/c everyone, and then the work sandbags every ten feet. Lastly, ROTC, University of Memphis

HTTPS://WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/NROTC.MEMPHIS 17 TIGER CRUISE NEWSLETTER Commander Dunn’s Retirement

Friday, 23 September 2011, career in the service would not marked the end to a vivid and ac- have been possible without the tive career for Commander Curtis continual, loving support of his R. Dunn, who retired after 26 immediate and extended family. years of active duty service to his He recalled aloud to the audience country. His final duty was as the how his wife never once added Executive Officer at The Universi- hardship to his deployments, but ty of Memphis, Naval Reserve Of- how she was always asking how ficer Training Corps (ROTC). The she could better help him in his ceremony began with the arrival efforts. Following CDR Dunn's of the official party followed by speech, he proceeded to formally the color guard, which was thank his wife, daughter, and ex- manned by midshipmen from tended family for their support by both The University of Memphis giving them all individual bou- and The University of Mississippi quets of flowers. After CDR Dunn Naval ROTC units. After the col- finished handing out flowers to to show appreciation from all ors were presented, The National his relatives, Mr. Ferdinand pro- Anthem was performed by Miss ceeded to read "Old Glory" as members of the unit. After the presentation of the shadow box, Lauren Linton. CDR Dunn then Sailors, midshipmen, and offic- the new Executive Officer, CDR proceeded to introduce his guest ers—each one representing a rank speaker, Captain Stephen J. Lepp. that CDR Dunn has held through- Steven Skretkowicz, recited "The CAPT Lepp, a graduate of the out his career—slowly passed an Watch," a traditional oratory hon- oring the discipline and commit- University of Memphis and long- American flag down the line until time friend of CDR Dunn’s, deliv- it was presented to CDR Dunn ment of a sailor. At the end of the ered an enlightening and venera- himself. ceremony CDR Dunn was appro- priately hailed ashore one last ble speech highlighting the major achievements throughout CDR The Naval ROTC units from The time to the sound of the boat- Dunn's service. University of Memphis and The swain's pipe. FAIR WIND AND FOLLOWING SEAS!!! University of Mississippi also had After his speech and audience ap- their share of thanks to give to plause, CDR Dunn thanked CAPT CDR Dunn for his service to his Very Respectfully, Isaac W. Parrish Lepp for his speech and added a country and for his time spent Midshipman 4/c / USNR few remarks of his own, the most with the unit. Officer Candidate important of them being that his Johnson presented a shadow box NROTC, University of Memphis

On Tuesday, 01 November 2011, the Memphis City Schools conducted the eleventh JROTC Recruiting Jamboree annual Memphis Junior Re- serve Officer Training Corps Service Academy Jamboree ed States Naval Academy, Martin, Middle Tennessee from 0900 to 1200. It was held Acade- State University, North Geor- at the Memphis City Schools my, United States Merchant gia College and State Universi- Teacher and Learning Acade- Marine Academy, United ty, Georgia Military College, my auditorium. Representa- States Coast Guard Academy), University of Arkansas at Pine tives from the “Five Pointed Lincoln University, University Bluff, and Arkansas State Uni- Star” (Regarding to the five of Memphis (Army ROTC, Air versity were present to give out military academies: United Force ROTC, Naval ROTC), information about their units States Military Academy, Unit- University of Tennessee at as well as deliver a speech to

18 HTTP://WWW.MEMPHIS.EDU/NROTC/ FALL 2011 “pitch” their respective units. us the advantage of relating to When the speeches were done, Those in attendance to proudly the JROTC cadets and giving we had many cadets come to represent our unit were MIDN them insight to what it is like our booth requesting more in- 4/c Guthrie, MIDN 4/c Phil- to be a student living the ROTC formation. There was diversity lips, MIDN 3/c Evans, and my- life. Furthermore, the speech in interest with the Marine self. that I gave was directed more Corps option, Naval option, about our unit and what we did and Nurse option. Many pam- At the beginning of the event I within the unit rather than in- phlets were given out and we was a little skeptical about how formation about what ROTC is even ran out of LT Jacob’s much interest there would be and what it can do for them. business cards due to so many of our Naval ROTC unit due to The speech was opened with a cadets taking them. Overall, I the JROTC students were all statement about winning the believe that our unit having Army and the rest of the repre- Commander’s Cup last year, in students present gave us the sentatives were Army ROTC which the JROTC cadets biggest advantage and made it units (besides UofM Air Force cheered in approval. Through- easy for the cadets to talk to ROTC and the “Five Pointed out the entire speech, the ca- and to find out our experienc- Star” academies). However, we dets were attentive and reacted es. had something that the majori- positively with all the activities ty of the other units did not we do within the unit and Very Respectfully, have… we had STUDENTS through the unit (i.e. commu- Meagan C. A. Menzel working the booth and giving nity service, working Memphis Midshipman 2/c / USNR the speech. Every other unit in May, etc.) NROTC, University of Memphis had an officer speak. This gave

HTTPS://WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/NROTC.MEMPHIS 19 TIGER CRUISE NEWSLETTER were not familiar with, leaving a drainage plug unsecured Wisconsin Drill Meet which led to the sinking of a boat halfway through a race.

The 2011-2012 drill season and left us little time for any As the sailing regatta was un- started off early with the Wis- pre-game practices. The next derway, our color guard team consin Drill Meet occurring day we put our uniforms on was set to perform, command- only a few weeks into the and had a short practice which ed by Midshipman 4/c Nathan school year. The University of left some feeling nervous, yet Sampson. After waiting for the Memphis Naval Reserve Offic- others more confident. Mem- graders to get ready the team ers Training Corps (ROTC) phis was the second school to entered the field with a team of drill team was a very inexperi- compete in platoon and left lit- four freshmen and one sopho- enced team with mostly fresh- tle time for the freshmen to see more and completed the entire man filling the ranks and a few what the graders were looking drill card well with only minor upperclassmen. The practices for or how they would grade. mistakes. were tough as many of the movements had to be taught Once the platoon drill team en- The squad basic drill team, and relearned many times but tered the field, commanded by commanded by Midshipman 1/ persistence paid off as the drill Midshipman 1/c Scott Miller, it c James Bilyard, took the field team came together with only a was game time. Nerves were after color guard team had fin- few short days left before the high as this was the first time ished. The squad of five mid- big meet. The drill team went most of the team had ever com- shipmen was composed of two to Madison to compete with a peted, but thankfully we had a seniors and four freshmen. platoon, squad, color guard, competent and experienced The inexperience of the team and sailing team. unit leader. The platoon card was not as evident once the went smoothly and much like team was on the field as the The travel from Memphis, TN how we practiced except for a freshmen competed with inten- to Madison, WI was an 11-hour few hiccups such as not com- sity and bearing. trip that made the team antici- pleting a movement on time or pate the drill meet even more improper placement of rifles. Overall, none of our teams placed, but the Wisconsin Drill After platoon Meet did serve as an excellent basic was com- way for our teams to gain expe- plete the sailing rience and prepare for future team was up, the drill meets. After the awards team was com- ceremony we received the offi- posed of Mid- cial results with our platoon shipman 4/c basic drill team placing fourth, Canton Phillips, squad basic drill placing fifth, Midshipmen 2/c and color guard placing sixth. Presley Morris- Overall we came in eighth out sey and Meagan of twelve teams that participat- Menzel, and the ed. captain of the team was Mid- Very Respectfully, shipman 1/c James M. Bilyard Charles Jamison. Midshipman 1/c / USMCR The sailing team NROTC, University of Memphis had to utilize Wisconsin’s sail boats which they

20 HTTP://WWW.MEMPHIS.EDU/NROTC/ FALL 2011 On 16 September 2011, The University of Memphis Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps Blue Angles Display (NROTC) unit attended the Friday rehearsal of the 2011 Memphis Air Show. During ried out with just as much de- to one day serve as Naval Avia- the rehearsal show, those in tail and precision as when they tors and Naval Flight Officers, attendance had a chance to fly. Once they took to the air it seeing the Blue Angels up close witness aircraft from both the was amazing to watch how really had a lasting impression. Navy’s past and present per- close the plane got while trav- After the Blue Angels were form in a Heritage Flight eling at speeds over 500 miles back on the ground, the mid- demonstration, which consist- per hour. Blue Angels #1-4 shipmen had an opportunity to ed of an F4U Corsair from the demonstrated the precision fly- meet the Blue Angel pilots and World War II era, an F4 Phan- ing that is the hallmark of the take a picture with them in tom from the Vietnam era, and Blue Angels, while Blue Angels front of the Blue Angel’s Com- an F-18 Hornet from the cur- #5 and #6, opposing solos, manding Officer’s plane, Blue rent era. The Heritage Flight demonstrated the maximum Angel #1. demonstration observed the capability of the F-18 Hornet. 100th year of Naval flight. Af- For the civilians, veterans, and Very Respectfully, ter the Heritage Flight demon- military personnel in attend- John J. Acker-Moorehead stration, the Blue Angels were ance the show really brought Midshipman 2/c / USNR up. They began with their pre- out the patriotism in everyone. NROTC, University of Memphis flight checks which were car- For the midshipmen who wish

HTTPS://WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/NROTC.MEMPHIS 21 TIGER CRUISE NEWSLETTER rushed for another touchdown. Navy had time for only two plays in which they could not score. AFROTC - NROTC Flag Football The final score was Air Force 56 – Navy 35. Friday, 30 September 2011, began MIDN Beloate threw a touchdown the coveted Commander’s Cup to MIDN Drapeau for 24 yards. Air Force had a total of 312 (102 rushing and 210 passing) yards Competition. The University of MIDN Drapeau threw a 40 yard and six first downs. They had Memphis’ Army, Naval, and Air touchdown to MIDN 2/C Brandon Force Reserve Officer Training McAuley, and a 5 yard touchdown three passing and five rushing touchdowns. Navy scored all of Corps (ROTC) units compete to MIDN 1/C Scott Miller. Air their touchdowns through the air. against each other in different Force scored the last touchdown events, each worth points that of the half with only a few seconds They had 247 (15 rushing and 232 combine to declare the winner. remaining. Navy only had time passing) yards and four first downs. MIDN Beloate went 5 of 9 Last school year saw the Naval for one play, and that ended in a 2 ROTC bring the trophy home, and yard sack. The score at half-time for 90 yards and 2 touchdowns. they have no plans in letting the was Air Force 35 - Navy 28. MIDN Drapeau went 10 of 12 for 142 yards, 3 touchdowns, and 1 trophy go this year. The first event of the competition is an During halftime, Navy was contin- interception. MIDN Drapeau was eight on eight flag football round uously going over adjustments for also responsible for the 15 rushing yards. MIDN McAuley had 83 robin. their defense. On Air Force’s first yards on 3 receptions and 1 touch- play in the second half, they con- Navy opened the game on of- nected on a 40 yard pass for a down. MIDN Miller caught 4 balls for 39 yards and 2 touch- fense. Midshipman (MIDN) 4/C touchdown. Navy came back and downs. OC Hicks also caught 4 Dillon Beloate had the helm at MIDN Beloate hooked up again quarterback. In the first drive, with MIDN Miller, this time for a balls for 52 yards and one score. Navy only gained 15 yards on a 15 yard touchdown. Navy pulled MIDN Drapeau’s only catch was the 24 yard touchdown. MIDN reception by MIDN 2/C Robert back within one touchdown. All Lyons; which was not enough for they needed to do was to come up Beloate added 14 receiving yards the flag football rules that regu- with a defensive stop and give the with his 2 catches. MIDN Lyons had one catch for 15 yards. late a first down is only achieved ball back to their offense. The de- at each 20 yard increment. Air fense answered forcing the Air Force only needed two plays to Force to turnover on downs. Na- When the final whistle blew, each side lined up to shake each other’s score on a 6 yard run by their vy took the ball back but started quarterback. to go the wrong way. Two sacks hands. Although they were play- for a combined loss of 16 yards ing against each other during the game, we are all playing for the MIDN 1/C John Drapeau started forced Navy to punt. There was same team. Navy’s next game is the second possession for Navy. still plenty of time left, but the This drive came to a halt when Air defense needed to step up again. against the Army on Friday, 02 December 2011. Force intercepted his first passing attempt. Navy made some ad- MIDN 1/C Craig Allen started the justments to their defense and defensive effort with a sack for a Very Respectfully, only allowed the Air Force to gain loss of 5 yards. Air Force then Harry C. Niewald III Officer Candidate / USN 3 yards before turning the ball picked up a first down on two over on downs. Officer Candidate straight completions. The NROTC, University of Memphis (OC) Ricardo Hicks highlighted quarterback for Air Force the defense with a sack for a loss then rushed 23 yards until he of 6 yards. found the pay dirt, putting Air Navy’s offense came alive in the Force back up by two touch- third drive with MIDN Drapeau downs. Navy then could not going a perfect 4 for 4 passing. pick up a first down and gave The drive was capped off by an 8 the ball back to the Air Force. yard touchdown reception by OC Air Force then started to run Hicks, tying the game at 7. After the clock down, waiting for this the shootout began. The next the very final second to snap seven drives ended in scores. the ball. Their quarterback

22 HTTP://WWW.MEMPHIS.EDU/NROTC/ FALL 2011 I think it is safe to say that the flag football game between The University of Memphis’ Army AROTC - NROTC Flag Football Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) program and Naval ROTC program on 2 December down to overtime, quadruple ROTC units are in a three-way 2011 would have made for good overtime to be exact. This had tie for first place in the Com- television. Those that came to be one of the most exciting mander’s Cup Challenge. out to watch the game really games I have played since I got their money’s worth; a have been in Naval ROTC pro- Very Respectfully, game that went back and forth gram, as it really could have Brandon J. McAuley with both teams giving it their gone either way in the end. Midshipman 2/c / USMCR all. At the end of regulation the With the result of this game the NROTC, University of Memphis score was tied 14-14 so it came Naval, Army, and Air Force

endurance course, combat fit- ness test, and tug of war. Each unit had a team in every event. Dronet Challenge The competition ended around 1300. On Saturday, 19 November an 11 Africa. His widow, Mrs. Summer -person team composed of indi- Dronet, was in attendance and After the challenge each school viduals from The University of oversaw the competition. formed up on the field in the Ace Memphis Naval Reserve Officers W. Mumford Stadium for the Training Corps (ROTC) and Ar- The competition began at 0900 awards ceremony. There were my ROTC competed in the 5th after a few words from the Com- trophies for the top three teams. annual Dronet Challenge at manding Officer of Southern The University of Memphis Southern University in Baton University’s Naval ROTC unit, came in third place, Southern Rouge, Louisiana. The challenge Captain Alton Ross, United University placed second, and was held in memory of First States Navy, and a presentation the University of Houston had Lieutenant Brandon Dronet. of flowers to Mrs. Dronet. The the highest score and placed first 1stLt Dronet was assigned to first event was cadence push- in the competition. Marine Heavy Helicopter ups. After the push-ups the Squadron 464 when he was teams moved to the cadence sit- After dismissal the units congre- killed on 17 February 2006 in a ups followed by pull-ups, a wa- gated outside the stadium for helicopter crash in the Gulf of ter jug relay, fireman carry relay, lunch and the midshipmen from Aden off the coast of Djibouti, poncho stretcher relay, two mile each unit had the opportunity to meet with each other and share their experiences. Overall the event was a success and helped strengthen the ties between the midshipmen from several differ- ent states and gave tribute to our one of our nation’s fallen, 1stLt Brandon Dronet.

Very Respectfully, Nathan A. Sampson Midshipman 4/c / USMCR NROTC, University of Memphis

HTTPS://WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/NROTC.MEMPHIS 23

TIGER CRUISE NEWSLETTER FALL 2011 On 12 September 2011, The University of Memphis held a 9/11 memorial service in recog- 9/11 Memorial nition of the lives lost ten years ago on that fateful day of 11 September 2001. The service crashed in Pennsylvania and was led by the Air Force Re- how service members have Overall, it was an emotional serve Officer Training Corps continued to show that same ceremony that respectfully me- (AFROTC) unit and was at- courage over the past 10 years morialized the victims of the tended by both the Naval while fighting in Iraq and Af- tragedy and the wars that fol- ROTC (NROTC) and Army ghanistan. When the SGA pres- lowed, but also drove home the ROTC (AROTC) units. ident was finished, Air Force tremendous responsibility and ROTC Cadet Jeremy Martin dedication that each midship- The service began with the described the three rose cere- men and cadet is taking on by playing of the National An- mony and how each rose stood heading down the path to be- them, while all three services for each of the three locations come a commissioned officer. saluted the National Ensign at that were attacked that day. half-mast. Following that the Each ROTC unit had a repre- Very Respectfully, University of Memphis Student sentative lay a rose in front of a Matthew T. Wendell Government Association (SGA) picture of each of the three lo- Midshipman 4/c / USMCR president, Tyler DeWitt, spoke cations. The service was com- NROTC, University of Memphis of the courage that was shown pleted with a moment of si- by the passages of flight 93 that lence and the playing of Taps.

General Salinas told a brief sto- ry of her past, and gave advice HENAAC College Bowl to the people in the room to be dedicated and continue to fight for what they want. From 5-9 October 2011, two military branches), focus on University of Memphis Mid- showcasing their talents, team- On 8 October, a career fair was shipmen attended the Hispanic work and leadership skills. held exhibiting all of the com- Engineer National Achieve- Each round the coaches were panies and government jobs. ment Awards Corporation required to help less and less, Both Midshipmen were re- (HENAAC) Conference spon- focusing on the students’ lead- quired to stand post at the Ma- sored by Great Minds in Stem ership. MIDN Grace was re- rine exhibit to field any ques- in Orlando, Florida, at Disney cruited by the CIA, while tions about pursuing a career World’s Coronado Springs Re- MIDN Wendel was recruited as a Marine Officer and a sort. by Cummins. The two midship- STEM (Science, Technology, men worked with their teams Engineering, Math) major. On 6-7 October, MIDN 4/c for the next two days. That night, a dinner was held Grace and MIDN 4/c Wendel to present awards given to stu- became participants of the HE- On the night of 7 October, both dents who had earned scholar- NAAC College Bowl. The HE- midshipmen were invited to a ships and to the winning teams NAAC College Bowl is a two- dinner where the honored of the College Bowl. day, high energy competition guest was Major General Ange- in which teams of students, la Salinas, who is the first fe- Very Respectfully, coached and judged by repre- male Marine to command a Matthew T. Wendell sentatives of over twenty-five Marine Corps Recruit Depot Midshipman 4/c / USMCR different companies and gov- (San Diego), and the sixth fe- NROTC, University of Memphis ernment officials (including male Marine to obtain the rank representatives from all four of Brigadier General. Major

24 HTTPS://WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/NROTC.MEMPHIS HTTP://WWW.MEMPHIS.EDU/NROTC/