PAGE 1 Celebrating Excellence in Duty, Honor, Achievement Since 1891 THE NMMI DISPATCHES

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MILITARY New Mexico Military Institute • Roswell, New Mexico www.nmmi.edu • 2019 MAY EDITION

Honoring the Fallen Bridges for the Fallen: SGT Sanders Bridge Dedication

PAGE 1 MAY 2019 Celebrating Excellence in Duty, Honor, Achievement Since 1891 NMMI DISPATCHES

About the Cover On April 30, 2019 a ceremony was the steps of Pearson Auditorium held on N. Main Street in honor of for the ceremony, which consisted NMMI 2004 HS Alumnus Christopher of the Invocation by Father Jerick, May 2019 Sanders. The purpose of the ceremony a short speech by Mayor Kintigh Dspatchesi www.nmmi.edu was to honor a fallen soldier in the and Superintendent Major General naming of a permanent structure Grizzle reading the Bridge Dedication The New Mexico Military Institute is the nation’s oldest under the program, Bridges for the Proclamation. During the reading, state-supported, nationally accredited, co-educational college Fallen. November Troop participated in the preparatory military boarding high school and junior college; Bridges for the Fallen was founded lighting of candles on the bridge and offering four years of high school and the first two years of college. on April 12, 2012 in Harwich, Echo Taps was played. While the final Massachusetts by Rob Mador. The notes fell on the silent spectators, The NMMI Dispatches is a publication of the New Mexico Military intention of the non-profit is to honor the children of SGT Sanders, Cadet Institute Marketing Department. Check out additional articles fallen heroes and their families by Christopher Sanders (of November on wordpress.nmmi.edu/nmmipost. Please send all comments to bringing light to their selfless service Troop) and Jacquelyn, unveiled the [email protected] and sacrifice to our country and sign with handheld spot lights. ensure their legacy is never forgotten. “Since the day of this common • Layout/ Design/ Edit (sort of)- Rodney Austin With NMMI’s November Troop pedestrian bridge’s installation, every • SSAS- Jennifer Rawdon on the bridge, the rest of the Corps cadet at NMMI has crossed over it one • Sports Editor- Geoff Gunn time or another. It is appropriate that of Cadets stood in silence on Main • Printed by the Roswell Daily Record Street, which was closed down for the Sanders family consider this bridge the ceremony. The family of SGT in dedication to their son’s services Special thanks to the NMMI Cadets, Faculty and Staff and the Christopher Sanders was present on and sacrifice. It will be a constant reminder not only to the NMMI Roswell Daily Record for their contributions. Thank you! cadets, but to the public at large of On the Cover one of our son’s selfless servitude to Evening photo of November Troop lining up on Roswell’s Main the community and to his brothers Street bridge during the SGT Sander Bridge Dedication. and sisters in harm’s way. A memorial sign dedicated to the LETTER SUBMISSION POLICY Sanders Bridge shall be placed at the foot of the East side steps. A portion Letters can be submitted to the NMMI Dispatches via the office in Lusk Hall or of it reads: at [email protected]. NMMI Dispatches reserves the right to edit letters for content and length. A name, phone number and email must accompany all letters. ---See SGT Sanders Bridge, pg.12 Anonymous letters or letters under a pseudonym will not be printed. Opinions expressed solely reflect those of the author and do not reflect the opinions of

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PAGE 2 MAY 2019 NMMI DISPATCHES Celebrating Excellence in Duty, Honor, Achievement Since 1891 Some Levitating Levity Another Succes s ful Mucsi By MAJ Steven Young Dept ar ment Spring Tour Assistant Professor of Mathematics By LTC Steve Thorp NMMI Choral Director & Music Department Chair

Cadets in the NMMI Regimental All of the cadet groups did Cadet Colton Claypool (left) and Cadet John McIntyre are holding the Cody Parkey Kicking Bands and Concert Choir, a wonderful job of serving as Bonanza levitating device. accompanied by the cadet drill “Ambassadors” of the Institute. team, the Goss Rifles, represented Members of NMMI Faculty and NMMI faculty member LTC John Cody Parkey, whose playoff game the Institute well during the Music Commandant’s Staff who supported Surgett was an engineer prior to winning attempt struck the upright and Department’s recent spring tour cadet travel included COL Cheryl dedicating himself to the profession then deflected off the crossbar back through northern New Mexico and Martinez, Math Professor and of teaching. His teaching style, as a into the playing the field resulting in central Colorado. The Concert Band, hornist; LTC Nancy Hein, Biology mathematics, physics, and engineering a devastating one point loss to the HQ Live! Jazz Band, Concert Choir Professor and bassoonist; and CPT educator, has always been project based Philadelphia Eagles. Hitting the upright ensuring a connection between dry is not uncommon, but deflecting off and Vocal Ensemble performed Margaret Novak, HQ Troop TLA. “answer in the back of book” equations the upright and the crossbar is an on the Santa Fe Plaza, a National The Goss Exhibition Drill Team was and something intriguing in the real extremely rare event! Historic Landmark in downtown supervised by sponsor CSM Ron world. Santa Fe, at the Colorado State Fabec, NMMI JROTC Instructor and Credit to LTC Surgett for extending Veterans Home in Aurora, CO, and tubist. LTC Steve Thorp directed the One such project tasked his the latitude and flexibility for such a at the Colorado Military Academy, Concert Choir and Vocal Ensemble, students to create a device where the project to be produced. Many Science a military-styled elementary and and CPT Bill Lamb directed the manipulation of electrostatic field Labs are monotonous step-by-step middle school associated with the Regimental Concert Band, Jazz forces causes an object to levitate. An exercises which leave little leeway Civil Air Patrol located in Colorado Band, and the combined band and object that is levitating appears to be for creativity or innovation. Cadet Springs, CO. choir selections. defying the force of gravity while being Claypool’s choice for this project is a suspended in midair. The object’s humorous idea, not intended to mock floating motion in space is due to the the Bear placekicker, requiring critical electrostatic force acting on it being thinking to design and implement. stronger than our planet’s gravitational Colton recreated the “Double Doink” force. project to mitigate the pain he felt as a One of his more imaginative students diehard Bear’s fan in a contest where a decided he wanted that object to be a win was literally centimeters away! metal football. Cadet Colton Claypool Finally, Colton’s Physics project produced some levity (along with did not escape the attention of Denver the levitation) and guided a “metallic Bronco linebacker Joe Jones. Cadet football” toward an upright simulating Claypool contacted Jones and Jones the “Double Doink” from the 2018 then produced a video lauding the NFC Wild Card game. NMMI cadet’s effort. Readers may recall the misfortunes The link to Jones’ video is (https:// of the Chicago Bear placekicker, www.cameo.com/v/3twyoAf_j ).

MAY 2019 PAGE 3 Celebrating Excellence in Duty, Honor, Achievement Since 1891 NMMI DISPATCHES From the desk of the Superintendent Early Commissioning Program

When LTC (NMMI) Danny promotions, discharges, all NMMI commissioned when any of Armijo and I are traveling around factor into the number of new our Alumni were here, was based the country as part of the Alumni lieutenants that will be needed on a quota provided by Cadet Outreach program, I always on an annual basis. Once Command, not based on how include in my updates the status that number is determined, many we wanted to recruit and of the Early Commissioning the number that will be commission. Program. I report the number commissioned from West Point Recently an effort was made of second lieutenants we is subtracted, a number that by Cadet Command to close commission each year, whether will be commissioned through a number of low performing we meet our mission as assigned ROTC units across the country. by United States Army Cadet School (OCS), is determined and Command, etc. Federal Officer Commissioning units that produce less than Frequently when I report that that will be commissioned What14 lieutenants defines “low annually. performing” Cadet we have commissioned between subtracted and finally a number Command produced a list of 13 30 and 35 new lieutenants, Corps (ROTC) will be determined. ROTC units or schools and sent aware of. As indicated above, I get verbally attacked with throughThat number Reserve is given Officer to UnitedTraining them letters of termination. As the size of the Institution has comments about what has States Cadet Command. Cadet typical, Cadet Command failed no correlation to the number happened to the program. The Command takes that number to recognize the power of the of lieutenants they produce. Alumni in the room throw out the and breaks it down between Congressional Delegation of each I was invited to attend the number of lieutenants that were their 273 ROTC units across state. Soon they had to rescind commissioning ceremony at the commissioned when they were the country and assigns each a their letter. University of New Mexico, an at NMMI and equate that number quota. So once again, whatever institution with an enrollment the number of lieutenants that I am attaching a picture over 30,000. UNM commissioned with the number I just mentioned, from the University of Central their number is always higher, and nine (9) total in three services, Oklahoma in Edmond, OK. UCO is Army, Navy and Air Force. The believe that something is wrong one of the regional universities in with our program. four military junior colleges Oklahoma with an enrollment of produce between 120 and 150 I immediately attempt to over 16,000. At their December new lieutenants per year for the explain to them that the number commissioning ceremony, they United States Army. The Army of lieutenants that NMMI commissioned one (1) new and Cadet Command rely on us to commissions each year, regardless lieutenant. In contrast NMMI meet their assigned mission. The of what year that was, is a quota second factor is diversity. From assigned to NMMI by Cadet are scheduled to commission 25 Command. We do not have any commissionedduring our May five commissioning (5) and we senior military colleges (Norwich, input as to what that quota is ceremony. I do not know what theVMI, last Virginia briefing Tech, I received, Texas A&M, the and we do not have the ability to UCO’s quota or mission is for The Citadel and North Georgia) simply recruit and commission the 2018/2019 school year have a diversity feed into the all of the lieutenants we want and but I do know what NMMI’s Army from the lieutenants they then give them to the Army and quota is and we will meet our produce of approximately 8%. assigned mission. I might add The diversity feed from the that if we have the opportunity military junior colleges was 24%. say, “Here, you do something with to exceed mission, we have to ask I hope this helps to explain forthem.” the entire United States University of Central Oklahomas permission from Cadet Command student received a military commission to go over mission. this issue. If not, please ask me Army,The G-1,determines Personnel how Officer, many when I am visiting your Alumni new lieutenants are needed on with her completion of the UCO Army ROTC program and bachelor’s degree. gathering. an annual basis. Retirements, Photo Courtesy-UCO Photo Services factors of which you should be There are two other significant

PAGE 4 MAY 2019 NMMI DISPATCHES Celebrating Excellence in Duty, Honor, Achievement Since 1891 Bataan Memorial Death March 2019 Cadet Dawdy - 2019 Class Daniels Scholar By Cadet Michael Carlmon Van Hoven “Cadet Daniel Kurmantai Dawdy has been named a 2019 Class Daniels Scholar. The Daniels Scholarship Program provides a four-year renew- able college scholarship for graduating high school seniors in Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming who demonstrate exceptional character, leadership and commitment to serving their community. Out of approximate- ly 1,850 students who completed the scholarship application, this year only 218 students were selected. Cadet Dawdy is a senior cadet, who has been at NMMI since ninth grade. He has been actively involved in aca- demic and corps activities and leader- ship opportunities. He is a respectful, caring and exceptional student. Cadet Dawdy will be attending the University of Oklahoma in the fall of 2019. “

Taking a photo at the 26th mile, NMMI cadets are marking the successful completion of the 30th memorial year, featuring team captain CDT. MAJ. Lopez, RGT. XO., CDT.Padilla, SROTC SCO. CDT. Eaton, and fellow cadets”.

With the execution of the 30th the 66-mile (106-km) ordeal. Annual Bataan Memorial Death March, the commemorative event Amongst the group of participants Roswell’s UFO Museum is open every day saw to the largest assembly of in the Memorial March were thirty- 8,631 participants, of whom had three volunteering cadets from from 9AM to 5PM (except major holidays). the opportunity to endure a 26.2 or the New Mexico Military Institute, Visit their gift shop and find something 14.1-mile ruck march or run. whom of which experienced rigorous and challenging training for everyone, whether believer or skeptic. The Bataan Memorial Death in preparation for the 26.2-mile March, founded in 1989 by cadets marathon. Under the guidance of the New Mexico State University, of cadre members, and the For More Information: was commemorated to the leadership of Team Captain, Cadet www.RoswellUFOMuseum.com abhorrent events of the infamous Antonio Lopez, the premise of this or call 575-625-9495 Bataan Death March during WWII, training was to develop the cadet’s where approximately 76,000 tolerance for heavy weight and Filipino and American prisoners muscle fatigue, as well as build the International UFO Museum and of war were forcibly marched by groups’ capabilities as a cohesive Japanese forces for five to twelve unit and team. Such development days from Mariveles, Bataan, to consisted of slab runs around Colt Research Center San Fernando, Pampanga. Under Field and progressive four to six 114 N. Main, Roswell, NM 88201 horrendous conditions, thousands mile ruck marches, culminating to a of POWs lost their lives throughout Proud Supporter of the New Mexico Military Institute ----see Bataan 2019, pg.7

MAY 2019 PAGE 5 Celebrating Excellence in Duty, Honor, Achievement Since 1891 NMMI DISPATCHES NMMI Welcomes Two New Board of Regents Members As the Dean of the Faculty at DigiPen Arlington VA), and the Commission Institute of Technology in Redmond, on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Washington, and Dean of Instruction at Education (CAPTE, Alexandria, VA). UNM-Los Alamos, Dr. Page served as the Dr. Page has travelled throughout the chief academic officer in all areas related U.S. and to Canada, Mexico, Spain, to the faculty, the curriculum, academic France, Luxembourg, Belgium, Germany, programs, and academic support services. Panama, Jamaica, Eleuthera (Bahamas), As Executive Director of the UNM- and the Dominican Republic. He enjoys Los Alamos campus, Dr. Page served as golfing, cooking, reading and challenging the chief executive officer for the branch Scrabble© games with his family and campus. He retired as Professor Emeritus friends. He is married to Doris A. Page, Geography in January 2017 from UNM- M.D. (retired) and they have two adult Los Alamos and currently teaches daughters and a grandson. online geography courses at UNM-Los John Garcia is currently the District Alamos. Dr. Page has consulted with Director of the United States Small public, private, and nonprofit sector Business Administration’s for the clients on topics that include team New Mexico District Office located in building; organizational performance and Albuquerque, New Mexico. He was Dr. Cedric Page-NMMI BOR Member John Garcia-NMMI BOR Member accountability; accreditation; leadership; appointed to this position in October institutional diversity (race, class and 2016. He is responsible for the statewide ethnicity); and teaches courses on urban, delivery of SBA programs and services During the 2019 New Mexico University, and earned a master’s human and regional geography. to support business owners in starting Legislative session held in Santa Fe, degree (geography) and doctoral degree Dr. Page has served as a director on and growing their businesses, create jobs New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan (geography) from Rutgers University the following non-profit boards: Boys & and develop local economies through Grisham nominated two new NMMI in New Jersey. In June 1995, Dr. Page Girls Clubs of Pierce County; Tacoma- capital, contracting, exporting and Governing Board of Regents. Both were completed the Management Development Pierce County Math, Engineering & counseling initiatives throughout New confirmed days later by the NM Senate Program at Harvard University. Science Achievement (MESA); the Mexico. Garcia first-hand knowledge in as per the NM Statutes. The Statutes Dr. Page held faculty positions at the Board of Trustees of the United Way of business and government, with a strong require five (5) Regents for NMMI each USAF Academy in Colorado Springs Northern New Mexico; the Los Alamos commitment to our Veterans in our to be nominated by the sitting Governor (ROTC Commissioned Officer, USAF), Resource Board of Big Brothers/Big local communities brings a unique asset and to serve six-year terms. The Terms the University of Colorado at Denver, Sisters of Northern New Mexico; and and advocacy for New Mexico small are staggered in order that to avoid having and the University of New Mexico-Los the Regional Development Corporation businesses. only three (3) Regents, the minimum Alamos. He also served as executive (New Mexico). He served as president of needed to serve as a quorum. Regent Prior to joining the SBA, John director of the Community Technical the Santa Fe Branch of the N.A.A.C.P.; Garcia was President and owner of Phill Ingrim, and Regent Stirling Spencer Skills Center, a nonprofit training UNM-LA Faculty Senate representative; completed their terms on December 31, Garcia & Associates, a privately owned organization in Denver, Colorado. and as member of the KUNM Radio consulting company with over 25 years 2018. Their departure left COL Tim Paul Advisory Board. Recently, he served (I), President of the BOR, COL Barb Dr. Page held the position of Associate of professional administrative and Director for Minority Affairs and on search committees for Big Brothers/ hands-on experience in the area of inter- Trent (R), Vice President of the BOR, Big Sisters-Mountain Region (CEO) and and BOR member Brad Christmas (R). Academic Programs at the Washington governmental relations working closely Higher Education Coordinating Board. Santa Fe Community College (President). with the public and private sector at the The Statute also limits the political party Dr. Page is a public commissioner affiliation of the BOR members to no He was responsible for developing and federal and state level specializing in coordinating state-level policy initiatives on the Accrediting Commission of more than three. In this case, both of the Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC, new regents are of the Democratic Party. and planning to increase the participation ----See Board of Regents, pg.8 NMMI Administration hosted an all-day and achievement by people of color and training session for the new Regents students with disabilities; for monitoring on April 25th followed by a regularly gender equity; and administering the scheduled BOR meeting on April 26th. state’s degree authorization, academic Neither of the two new regents are NMMI program review and the State Approving alumni, which is not rare or recent as Agency (veterans’ education programs). many non-alums have served on various As Director of the Center for Social Boards of Regents at NMMI. Both Responsibility and Community at the Regents come with significant experience State University of New York, College as posted within their curriculum vitae’s at Oneonta, Dr. Page was responsible following. NMMI welcomes Regent Dr. for administration of grant funds, Cedric Page and Regent John Garcia to faculty development of service-learning the Old Post. courses, campus-wide student volunteer Cedric D. Page received a Bachelor of and service efforts through the Center, Arts degree in geography from Syracuse and leading research and community collaboration regarding service.

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----from Bataan 2019, pg.5 Lopez. “I am extremely grateful NMMI in the News final training event which involved for my Co-Captain, Cadet Padilla, ape-walks and buddy-drags for sticking it out with me through across a 400m field and two box- another year of Bataan and Ranger runs through NMMI’s Hagerman Challenge. This was an extremely Barracks. This prerequisite would large turnout for Bataan (last year mark each individual’s earned was only about seven cadets) position on the team and honorary and I am very proud of those that NMMI Bataan team shirts. finished their training and march, especially Cadet Jones, my Guideon “As a leader, I believe this is an Bearer (Guide)”. Those cadets excellent tool to assess people who participated in the Bataan under stress. I believe that every Memorial Death March were cadet that has the opportunity to recognized in front of the entire do the Bataan Memorial Death Corps when the Commandant, LTC March SHOULD,” said Team Captain, Graff, presented them with their Cadet Lopez. “The best aspect of finisher medal. Bataan for me was showing people what they are capable of and giving A video of this ceremony can be them a sense of achievement and viewed at https://www.nmmi.edu/ NMMI junior college freshman Trinity Fautanu won the 2019 New Mexico Golden confidence in their own [physical] Gloves Super Heavyweight Boxing title, held in Albuquerque, NM on April 6-7. Fautanu rotc-college/. won his championship bout with a technical knockout (TKO) in the second-round. He is abilities and that of their team pictured with his boxing coach Adam Davies. through vigorous training,” said

MAY 2019 PAGE 7 Celebrating Excellence in Duty, Honor, Achievement Since 1891 NMMI DISPATCHES

Association of State Directors of Veterans ----from pg.6 Board of Regents, Affairs for his leadership as President strategic planning, tactical marketing, of the organization with the Iron Mike and business development with a special Award. He was recognized with the DID YOU KNOW... emphasis on veteran wellness and National Pillar of the Veteran Business stability. Movement Award, and recently was presented with the Veteran Advocate of Garcia & Associates, is a service- the Year Award by the Vietnam Veterans disable veteran owned company, which of America, New Mexico Chapter. Garcia consistently demonstrated excellent also is listed among the Who’s Who interpersonal and communicative skills, Among Hispanic Americans. He is a critical thinking, and strategic reasoning, graduate of Leadership Albuquerque and sound counseling for both the public was awarded the New Mexico Business and private sector leaders in complex Leadership Award by N.M. De Colores, matters, providing sound judgment and the National Hispanic Leadership Award a business acumen. Garcia consistently by the Mexican American Foundation and demonstrated cultural sensitivity, planning the International Leadership Award from and project management skills with a The American Center. strong tactical understanding of issues and needs of small business owners, veterans Garcia has served on numerous boards and their families as well as military and commissions and most recently members with an emphasis in wellness, was a member of the National Small education, employment and business Business Administration Veteran Business development Advisory Board, the U.S. Association of Veterans in Business, and the White John M. Garcia was appointed by House Task Force on Veteran Business the White House as Deputy Assistant Development. He is also Past President Bern Beatty, Executive Secretary to Superintendent Grizzle, started racing junior Secretary for Intergovernmental Affairs of the National Association of State dragsters at eight years old? She’s still racing but her dragster is bigger and faster for the United States Department of Directors of Veterans Affairs. now. It’s a family affair! Her husband, daughter, dad, mom and sister all race too! Veterans Affairs in June 2011. Garcia oversaw VA’s Intergovernmental, Tribal In 1969 Garcia was drafted into the Government, International, and Consumer United States Army and took his Basic Affairs Programs. He was responsible for and Advance Infantry Training at Fort developing, managing and coordinating Ord., California. He served with the 4th the department–wide intergovernmental Infantry Division in the Central Highlands ronco ootball 2019 of South Vietnam from 1969-1970, and B F and consumer affairs programs, while providing VA senior leadership was honorably discharged in 1971. Youth Summer Camp with strategic advice, guidance and Garcia is a founding member of the information by fostering partnerships and Vietnam Veterans of New Mexico and acting as a liaison between state, local, the New Mexico Vietnam Veterans tribal and international governments. of America. He served 12 years as a Prior to joining the VA, he was Commissioner for the New Mexico appointed by Governor Bill Richardson Veterans Service Commission. In 1982 in January of 2003 as the first Cabinet he also served in Washington DC as the Secretary of the New Mexico Department National Deputy Director of the Vietnam of Veterans Services. In 1991 Garcia Veterans Leadership Program an initative was also appointed to serve as Deputy established by President Ronald Reagan. Chief of Staff for the administration of He was also actively involved with the New Mexico Governor Bruce King and dedication of the National Vietnam during the King administration was alao Veterans Memorial in Washington, DC. appointed as the Cabinet Secretary of the He is a member of the Veterans of New Mexico Economic Development Foreign Wars, the American Legion, 7th Annual 3 Day Kids Camp Department. the Disabled American Veterans and a Among his numerous awards, he life member of the Vietnam Veterans of has most recently been presented with America. Tuesday July 8th - Thursday July 10th the Profile of Courage Award by the Mr. Garcia attended the University of Vietnam Veterans of New Mexico. He has Albuquerque, Chamber of Commerce www.newmexicomilitaryfootballcamps.com received the New Mexico Veteran Small Institute at Stanford University and Business Advocate of the Year Award the Kenan-Flagler Business School at by the New Mexico Small Business University of North Carolina. 575-624-8285 Administration. He was presented VA’s National Secretary’s Leadership Award and has been honored by the National register today!

PAGE 8 MAY 2019 NMMI DISPATCHES Celebrating Excellence in Duty, Honor, Achievement Since 1891 A Flavor of the French Riviera Greetings From Kuwait in the NMMI 2019 RAT Class From Chaplain Mace By Cadet Cyriaque Foucart habit of working out every day by

However, living far away from home atmyself such to a youngimprove age faster.” is something

you have to handle an intensive difficulttraining toprogram handle, on especially top of a fullwhen class

time travelling that made me drop out schedule.of high school. “I had However, problems I tookduring online my classes and earned my high school

Junior had a breakout year in 2018. Soldiers from the 300th Sustainment Brigade pose, following a tour of the degree last summer.” He integrated France’s national baptism site of Jesus. Led by Chaplain (MAJ) Chance Mace team and discovered a new type of practice. More organized and intensive Hello NMMI. sites listed above are all in present day than anything he has experienced Jordan, and have been recognized as before, Aho describes these camps Happy spring, April, and Easter. the actual sites going back over fifteen hundred years. The church, built near March provided the wonderful permanent grind in the unprofessional the baptism site, contains Italian opportunity to offer religious support asenvironment “A huge breath” of French away football from his teams. marble carried on the backs of pilgrims to our troops as events led up to Palm A title of European champion and a few from Italy, over a thousand years ago. Sunday, and Easter. Yet, for me, the highlights videos later, he is discovered It was a magnificent trip, and held highlight of March was to visit our Abdel Aho in 2018 with his national by the former NFL player Bjoern for me both historical and spiritual soldiers in Jordan. I visited four of team. Werner. The German defensive end significance. The site is also where God now has his own academy and helps our military locations there, and was parted the Jordan River, as Joshua led Picture credit: Thomas Depaepe young European prospects to cross the blessed to lead a group of soldiers to the Hebrews into the Promised Land, ocean and showcase their talents in the historical baptism site of Jesus, and where the waters parted for both On January 7th, 60 RATs checked America. This connection with Werner the Jordan River, Elijah’s hill (where he Elijah and Elisha. It gave a once in a in to become cadets of the 125 years will help Junior receiving a scholarship ascended into heaven on a chariot of legacy of the Institute. Among them, life time opportunity to explain the offer from the NMMI Broncos for the fire), John the Baptist cave (where he Bronco football recruit Junior Aho scriptures to the Service Members as 2019 spring term. lived in the desert prior to baptizing we stood in the actual locations where Jesus), and the Dead Sea. exotic accent from south of France. He is coming in with a lot of the events took place. standsThe journey out: taller, of an bigger, American and with football an Many of the biblical sites lie east of want to improve on my English to be Happy Easter everyone. player is quite linear. Star of his middle ambition, both on and off the field: “I the Jordan River (in the present day school. Star of his high school. The country of Jordan). The area is open the classrooms, help the team win and Chaplain (MAJ) Chance Mace athlete is in the best environment to tourism, but as you can imagine, ablegraduate to be so perform I can be on eligible the field to joinand in 300th Sustainment Brigade possible to successfully become a most tourists go to the Israeli side, a Division 1 program and hopefully APO, AE 09366 collegiate athlete. accomplish my dream of playing in the and few venture across the river. The Junior had to follow a more complex NFL path. His journey is impressive, but don’t The native of Nice - a city located in worry, he remains human! When he is the heart of the French Riviera - had asked how he feels about the military to leave his family to transform his exigencies of NMMI, he can’t retain a passion for football from a simple hobby to a potential high-level career. way different than anything I’ve known He was only 15 when he moved to laughbefore. “Well, Formations, it was a drills,shock parades… at first, it is Montpellier then to Marseille to pursue certain questions have universal in France. We only practice twice a That’sanswers! a lot to handle!” Somewhat, hisweek dreams. and the “Football coaching is methodsless developed are not optimum. I therefore had to travel Israel as viewed from the Jordanian side of the Jordan River. to find better teams. I also took the MAY 2019 PAGE 9 Celebrating Excellence in Duty, Honor, Achievement Since 1891 NMMI DISPATCHES

Aviation Club Goes to HAFB Gaining Work Experience At NMMI By Cadet Eric Fielenbach By Cadet Alejandro Rojas the cadets about how life is here at the Institute. Also, we promote the school on social media. I have my own account on Instagram dedicated to posting pictures related to the school and events that we have so others can see what is happing at the school. I have had the opportunity to work with fellow cadets, as well as faculty members who have been very supportive to all cadets, including myself, who help out in the office. Being able to work here has given Cadets sit inside a Blackhawk helicopter. From left to right: Cadet Ochieng, Devlin, me the chance to help my parents Fielenbach, Munn, and Maxwell. back home by letting them save some On Thursday, April 25, the Aviation helicopters and a remotely controlled money, since I don’t always have to Club went on a field trip to the White F-16 aircraft. The F-16 aircraft are ask them for money, aside from the Sands Missile Range (WSMR) and used for target practice. Each static tuition. Like I mentioned, my only Cadet Rojas poses with the Assistant regret is not doing it sooner. Holloman Air Force Base. We were display also included a question and Director of Admissions. joined by our club sponsor Captain answer session with the lead pilot of I am very grateful towards this school Stone, as well as the Eastern New each aircraft. After lunch, we were I’ve been at NMMI since I was a and the people in the admissions office Mexico University Roswell flight provided with a brief synopsis about sophomore in high school, and I am for the opportunity to gain some work instructors Mike Lanfor and Jenna the remote pilot aircraft (RPA) and currently a freshman in college. I experience before and during college, Secrist. training the U.S. Air Force uses. After always knew that here at the institute as well as a monthly source of income. We first arrived at WSMR where the presentation, we were permitted I had the opportunity to work in This has helped me out quite a bit we went on a tour of the world’s most to practice with the RPA simulator, different places, such as the ropes since I have enough money to go out in intact V-2 rocket. As a part of the conducting practice strikes on course, the admissions office, or being Roswell with my friends to enjoy some tour, the museum’s curator provided simulated targets. Next was a brief stop a life guard at the pool in the gym. I nice food, as well as to go on road trips an interesting presentation of the at the air park, which displays jets used also knew that I could get my first work on the weekends to visit friends in history of the V-2 rocket, including in the past by the U.S. Air Force. experience and make some money for other places in New Mexico, Arizona, the high human cost and its role in the All in all, the trip was successful and my personal expenses throughout my and Texas. beginnings of the missile program in provided many aspects of aviation as time here. the United States. We then explored we know it today. The Aviation Club My third year here, when I was a the WSMR museum learning about would like to thank Lieutenant Colonel senior, I decided to apply for a job the history of the Army in the region, Graff for setting up this field trip, our at the admissions office. I was hired and the development of other rocket sponsor Captain Stone for driving us and started working right away. This programs in the past and present. there and back, and Mike Lanfor and was one of the best decisions I made We then travelled from WSMR to Jenna Secrist for accompanying us on during my time at NMMI, and I wish Holloman AFB and were able to our trip. I would’ve done it sooner. I have the look inside a couple of Black Hawk opportunity to go into the admissions office during my free periods and do Cadet Fielenbach stands next to a German jet fighter, similar to the ones used while several things in the office. I help the German pilots trained at Holloman AFB. high school and college counselors with whatever they need, as well as assisting the data processors by making and sorting files. We do plenty of things in the office, like making packages that are sent out to prospective students who are Does this look familiar? Be the first cadet to interested in attending the school. identify where on campus this photos was We also give tours to families who taken and get a prize. come to see the campus throughout Visit the Admissions Office and ask for the school year, so they can hear from Rodney if you know the answer.

PAGE 10 MAY 2019 NMMI DISPATCHES Celebrating Excellence in Duty, Honor, Achievement Since 1891

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL NMMI HIGH SCHOOL CADETS! NMMI continued its long tradition of excellence when it achieved superior scores during the JROTC Program Accreditation (JPA) Inspection this past Friday, 12 April 2019 ensuring the Honor Unit with Distinction (HUD) designation. Inspection areas include the Continuous Improvement evaluation, and JROTC instructor portfolio and curriculum evaluation. Plan (CIP) Briefing, the Service Learning Briefing, Cadet Portfolio and oral exam, Unit Report, Platoon Drill, In-ranks inspection, Color Guard Below is the various inspections areas and scores. ACCREDITATION ACTIVITY MAXIMUM POINTS MINIMUM POINTS POINTS AWARDED Battalion Staff Continuous 35 25 33.5 Improvement Briefing & Interview Service Learning Briefing 20 14 20 Cadet Portfolio & Interview 20 14 20 Unit Report 35 25 35 Platoon Drill & In-Ranks Inspection 15 10 15 Color Guard 15 10 14 Cadets’ Points Awarded 137.5 Instructor Portfolio & Interview 30 21 30 (LTC O’Neil) Instructor Portfolio & Interview 30 21 30 (CSM Fabec) Instructors’ Points Award 60 Mustang Battalion Staff members presented and defended the Continuous Improvement Plan. This

Commander C/LTC Gavin Yates; Executive Officer C/MAJ Casey Day; year’s subjectCSM C/CSM was the Anthony “State Klinekole;of Drill and S-1 Ceremonies” C/CPT Tristan within Edwards; the Mustang JROTC Battalion. S-2 C/CPT Ryan Cuellar; S-3 C/MAJ Daniel Dawdy; S-4 C/CPT Elden Maxey; S-5 C/CPT Ximena Flores

Facilitator Rilan Maloney, Recorder Nam Vuong, Reporter Skyler Nunn, The ServiceTime Learningkeeper Lacey Team Ryan, members Debriefer presented Kylie Hostetler their project which was “Cadets for a Cure.”

Color Guard Positions Commander Dena Nguyen, Left Guard Yuna Cho, Right Guard Victoria Campbell, State Colors Denys Chepulskyy

New Mexico Military Institute completed its last JPA Inspection during SY 17-18. In accordance with Cadet Command Regulation 145-8-3, JPA Inspections will be conducted every year to revalidate their respective designation. Designation categories are: Honor Unit with Distinction (HUD), Program is Proficient or Program is Unsatisfactory.

New Mexico Military Institute continues its’ tradition of maintaining the designation of Honor Unit with Distinction (HUD) and has been doing so since 1909!

MAY 2019 PAGE 11 Celebrating Excellence in Duty, Honor, Achievement Since 1891 NMMI DISPATCHES Cadets meet WWII Medal of Honor Recipient By Cadet Mark Shover money for a memorial in Virginia, Cadet Fink (Troop: HQ) – to commemorate all the fallen “Meeting Woody Williams was an soldiers’ mothers. Woody Williams honor and is an experience that will emphasized that the mothers are stay with me into the future.” indeed the real heroes for creating a Cadet Holler (Troop: India) – human that has the heart and will to “Having the opportunity to meet protect our nation. The Cadets who Woody Williams is something that I went on this remarkable trip had a will remember forever. He is honestly few words to say: a living legend and I really appreciate Cadet Greiner (Troop: HQ) – “It hearing his words of wisdom.” was a privilege to attend the event. Cadet Shover (Troop: Charlie) – Being from Odessa, I was Familiar “Woody Williams is a living piece with several people in attendance. of history that carries the backbone NMMI Cadets meet last living WWII Medal of Honor Recipient, Wood Williams. It was great to speak with my of our nation. His stories are truly congressman, liaison officer, and Mr. inspiring, his heart is full of wisdom, On April 25th, 2019, A few families. The event also included Williams. His story and love of our cadets had the opportunity to go Purple Heart recipients. The event and most importantly, his service to country further inspires me to live a his nation is honorable. Williams has to Odessa, Texas to meet the last left a rememberable impression life bigger than myself.” Medal of Honor Recipient who on the cadets and motivated the left an impression in my heart to find fought in World War II; in the cadets to pursue their dreams and Cadet Coronal (Troop: Delta) – a way to save the lives of men and United States Marine Corps. The serve their country. The medal of “The experience and the ceremony woman who are fighting so bravely event was genuinely honorable; honor recipient was very humble will stay in my mind for ages.” to keep our loved ones safe. the cadets enjoyed hearing Woody and cared a lot about our countries Williams talk about aiding gold star lost heroes. The event was to raise

----from SGT Sander Bridge, pg.2 Unfortunately January 9th 2008 Sgt. Sgt. Christoper Sanders was born April Christopher Sanders was killed in Sinsil, 30th 1985 and graduated high school here Iraq along with five other soldiers and their at NMMI in 2004. interpreter. They will be forever known as drive thru deli At the age of nine years old Chris the “Sinsil 7”. - wanted to be a cadet at NMMI. Although Be it resolved by the New Mexico State he had planned to attend college and Transportation Commission, that it honor 2801 N. Main become a military officer, the terrorist the memory of St. Christopher Sanders for attacks on the World Trade Center and his willingness to serve his country and lay the Pentagon persuaded him to join the down his life and extends condolences to 575-622-1349 miltary as soon as he could. his family and friends. Sgt. Christopher Sanders loved life We bid the family of SGT Sanders rest and most of all, his family as he was a and peace and welcome SGT Sanders in dedicated father, husband and service this memorial dedication, welcome home Over 10 Different Meal man. to the Old Post. Choices for $6.99!

• Chicken Salad Sandwich • Texas BBQ Sandwich • Jalapeno BLT • Cuban Pulled Pork and Ham • Ham Upside Down (ham w/cheese) • Turkey on the Loose (turkey w/cheese) • Green Chile Philly (roast beef, green chile) • Fast Lane Club (bacon, turkey, ham, cheese) • Southwest Reuben (corned beef, jalapeno) • Santa Fe Chicken (chicken breast, green chile, cheese) • California Veggie (assorted veggies with guacomole)

*Served on either jalapeno, cheddar or plain bagel. Meals include pickle, chips and drink.

PAGE 12 MAY 2019 NMMI DISPATCHES Celebrating Excellence in Duty, Honor, Achievement Since 1891 NMMI Sports NMMI is quite successful at preparing cadets for collegiate sports careers. Cadet athletes are able to grow in their discipline and leadership skill-sets within the Corps of Cadets; our Academic Faculty helps cadet athletes outperform in the classroom, and our College Athlete Academic Advisor ensures cadet athletes are meeting NCAA benchmarks and requirements. Doty Engineers His Way to Play for Mariners Si sneros Ready to Run Like a Greyhound NMMI Sports Press NMMI Sports Press

Kevin Doty (center) signs his letter of intent to play basketball for the Merchant Marine Kalya Sisneros gets ready to sign her letter of intent to run cross country for Eastern New Academy next season, with Bronco basketball assistant coach Will Joyce (left) and head coach Mexico University next season. She is pictures here seated with her father Manuel and mother Sean Schooley (right). Angie, along with friends, family and former coaches in the background.

Lady Bronco and former Rocket reason for the nearby choice is head A Bronco basketball player who saw said. “So I hope to kind of excel at my no time on the floor during games this school.” runner Kayla Sisneros will continue to coach Jeff Kavalunas, who, she said, season has still signed to go on to the Doty will join the DIII Skyline grace the roads and tracks with her brings a lot of experience with him. next level. Conference school as a sophomore speed next fall when she heads to After competing for Goddard at state Kevin Doty, a freshman from Long forward, and Schooley said he’ll be an NCAA Division II Eastern New Mexico for four years — where her best finish Island, N.Y., came to NMMI as a asset to the team. University. was 51st in 23:17.8 as a senior — she sponsored Academy Prep student. He “His strength is his athletic ability and The former Goddard track and cross continued to improve her times at hoped to play basketball while studying he works extremely hard,” the coach country and NMMI JC runner signed NMMI and finished 112th at the NJCAA engineering at the Merchant Marine said. “He’s going to bring an element with a school she feels is perfect for nationals last November, with a time of Academy, so he asked head coach Sean to the team next year that he’s going to her needs. 22:07.9. Schooley if he could try and be a walk- play for that’s really going to help. He’s “They have a very good program,” And getting better every time she on for the Bronco basketball team. After hard working. He’s hard nosed. He’ll do Sisneros said. “They’re one of the best runs is something she thinks is her best seeing the 6’7 forward work out with the whatever’s asked, and he did that all year teams in the Lone Star Conference. It’s quality. team, he immediately said yes. long.” very competitive and what I’m looking “Even by just being a practice player, The New York native learned of “I like being competitive,” she said. Kevin has made us a better team,” said NMMI through former Bronco James for.” “I like going and doing a race and Schooley. “He is always working and Walsh, and came to the Institute to The Lady Greyhounds finished third knowing that I gave it my best every always trying to improve and he’s a great improve his grades. He did that with a in cross country in the conference last time I was out there.” teammate. We always considered him vengeance, earning a perfect 4.0 in the fall, behind only Midwestern State Her parents agree with that part of the team and appreciate what he classroom as well as finishing his time in University and Tarleton University, with assessment. did for us.” the Corps of Cadets as a staff sergeant. their top runner, graduating senior “We only expect the best out of Doty said that his time on the practice He said his time in Roswell has Mercy Rotich, taking the individual Kayla, because that’s all she has ever floor has definitely prepared him to play prepared him for the MMA life. title. The ladies then finished 17th in done, is given her best,” said mom for the Mariners. “I definitely learned what it takes to the NCAA DII South Central Region Angie Sisneros. “She’s always been “I think I learned a lot of what it’s succeed at a school like the Merchant championships, with Rotich earning a focused, always been driven, and going to take to be a college athlete and Marine Academy, since NMMI is very berth to the national championships. always manages to succeed.” play at the college level against the tough Sisneros will be joining a fairly young competition that I will be facing,” he ----See Cadet Doty pg.15 team as a junior, and said another ----See Cadet Sisneros pg.15

MAY 2019 PAGE 13 Celebrating Excellence in Duty, Honor, Achievement Since 1891 NMMI DISPATCHES

SchendtNMMI Sports Press is the First Bronco Named First Team all-American it is her ability to play in the backcourt think moving on to the Division I level that really makes her stand out and is going to be an easy transition for got her selected to the first team. Most h e r.” big-hitters get subbed-out after their And Schendt agrees NMMI helped time on the front row ends, replaced her in her future plans. by a defensive specialist. But Schendt “Definitely coming here has helped was second in digs for the Broncos this me so much,” she said. “Everyone I’ve season with 388, behind only libero met. The opportunities I’ve had here. Hula Crisostomo (who finished No. 7 Shelby has been wonderful and has in the nation in digs with 654). given me the opportunity to play at the Schendt was also a terror at the next level as well.” service line, dropping in 41 aces – good NMMI Athletic director Jose Barron for 49th in the NJCAA and second on was also happy for Schendt, coach the Bronco squad – and was a capable Forchtner and Bronco volleyball blocker when called upon, with 48 total program. blocks. “We are very pleased to have Peyton But, even though she’s only a Schendt selected for this ultimate freshman, Schendt isn’t planning on honor by the NJCAA. To have being back at NMMI next season as a somebody selected as a freshman sophomore. She came to NMMI as an is outstanding. It is a testament to academy prep student, and is hoping to her abilities and to the coaching and make it into West Point. mentoring she has she received under In fact, the choice to come to NMMI coach Forchtner,” stated Barron. last season was a bit of a last minute Schendt is the sixth Bronco volleyball For the first time in the program’s 18- “Peyton’s just a very well-rounded decision. But despite the hurried player selected as an All-American year history, the New Mexico Military athlete,” the coach said. “She does process of attending NMMI, coach since the program’s start in 2001. Along Institute Bronco volleyball team landed everything well. She’s a huge offensive Forchtner said she fit right in at the with Herrera-Rivera and Davis (listed a player to the NJCAA’s vaunted First threat. She was in our serve-receive military school. above), the other NMMI All-American Team All-American list, with Peyton pattern. She played defense and “The whole beginning was really are: Schendt selected as an outside hitter. middle-back and swung out of the quick: she didn’t know a whole lot She was one of only four freshmen in back row sometimes just as much as • 2014 – Mere Sera, Honorable about NMMI but she has adjusted the nation to earn the top-team award. she did the front. She’s a great little Mention, middle blocker really well to this environment,” said server. She could hit spots. She’s just It’s the second-straight year that Forchtner. “She’s doing really well in • 2013 – Veronika Baric, Second the total package. This is very much NMMI has garnered All-American the Corps of Cadets, she’s handling Team, outside hitter well deserved because she’s a very well- honors under head coach Shelby her business academically, and she was rounded kid.” • 2009 – Delores Alaimaleata, Forchtner: Karen Rivera-Herrera and great for us. She was by far one of the Second Team, middle blocker Hannah Davis both were named All- Schendt wasn’t as certain of her “all most competitive kids in our gym, so I American outside hitters in 2017, with around” abilities as was her coach. “My Rivera-Herrera tagged for second team front row is definitely better than my honors and Davis as an Honorable back row,” she laughed. “My back row Mention. needs some work still, but I think I was Need a silver dollar for “It was a really big surprise,” she said. a big offensive threat for the team – “I woke up to a text from coach Shelby. with hitting and getting some kills.” your commissioning Cadet? She called me and we were freaking But her stats show she truly earned out. I’m super honored and excited, the honor. Buy your coin at M&M Coin Company. as is my whole family. It’s just a really She played in all 38 games for the 207 W. 3rd St. good feeling.” Broncos this season, sitting out only Forchtner, who surpassed 300 wins five sets. She finished seventh in the Roswell, NM 88201 this season during her 13th year at nation in kills with 491 (a 3.58 average the helm of NMMI’s juco volleyball per set) on 1,354 total attack attempts. 575-622-4751 program, said the honor was well And while the kills column alone Serving Roswell and NMMI for 42 years deserved. justifies Peyton’s All-American honors,

PAGE 14 MAY 2019 NMMI DISPATCHES Celebrating Excellence in Duty, Honor, Achievement Since 1891

-from Cadet Doty, Page 13 similar to it. And has a great coaching “I think if he just continues to work staff,” he said. and relaxes; enjoys playing the game Doty calls the MMA “a very rigorous and probably doesn’t overthink it, I think academic school. You have three years he’s got a chance to be very successful,” of schooling. You have to complete 180 he said. “But more important are his engineering credits in three years due to academics and how hard he works. I your sea year, where you spend a whole think he’s going to be really successful year traveling the world and learning as an engineer and beyond. He was top- about the maritime industry.” notch as a cadet; he’ll be top-notch at the Schooley is confident he will do well at academy; and he’s going to be a top- the military academy. notch citizen.”

-from Cadet Sisnero, Page 13 “I always told the kids to do better really carried her to the point where than their best,” echoed dad Manuel she is now.” Sisneros. “And in each event, each Sisneros will major in athletic competition, each race, she always training and kinesiology at ENMU, tried. And I couldn’t be more proud of and had a chance to work with both her.” John Carpenter and David Smith in the Both Goddard coach Vernon Dyer NMMI sports medicine and athletic and NMMI coach Jan Olesinski think training department. she has a strong future ahead of her in Besides getting a jump on her future Portales. career skills, Sisneros said she “learned “I think she’s an excellent student a lot about self-discipline and time and excellent runner,” Dyer said. “I management” while a Bronco, which even picked her as a team captain for will be a plus as a Greyhound. the girls, because she was always there “The key is motivating myself more and on time and ready to help in any and staying determined and having way.” goals,” she said. “That’s what’s kept “She is a great runner,” Olesinski me going all of my time at NMMI.” agreed. “She’s a great example of “What she learned here: the a person who has a goal in life and discipline; the dedication; the hard dedication and understands how to work will carry her in the new college get there by hard work. We saw that and make her a better runner,” in high school, and after that she came Olesinski said. (to the Broncos) and really improved And, the well-spoken Sisneros said, and got better and better, not just she’s ready for the future, because she came to the college, but because of her personality and her “I’m excited to be a Greyhound next discipline and dedication. And, of year.” course, she has vision and goals which New Mexico Military Institute What are you waiting for? APPLY TOD Y! [email protected] 1-800-421-5376 www.NMMI.edu

MAY 2019 PAGE 15 Celebrating Excellence in Duty, Honor, Achievement Since 1891 NMMI DISPATCHES Around Ol’ Post Cadets “drive” down Sunset Blvd. as they are hypnotized by Michael DeShalit, an award winning hypnotist and magician.

Over 70 cadets participated in an Easter Commandant Graff takes a photo with LTC Egg Hunt organized by Cadet Yu. Cunningham who retired after 11 years of service.

Cadets check out the Air Methods helicopter. Air Methods is the medevac team that Cadets take a moment to unwind and have fun during the Shakespeare Festival. provides emergency transport for the Roswell area.

Cadets from Charlie Troop look to score in the Bronco Olympics soccer match. The Polynesian Club celebrates the end of year with the annual Luau.

PAGE 16 MAY 2019