2012 H. M. Smith Foundation Dinner Vince Papale, former wide receiver for the Philadelphia Eagles and inspiration for the 2006 Disney movie, “Invincible,” was the guest of honor and recipient of the highly revered Iwo Jima Leadership Award at the 2012 General H. M. Smith Foundation Dinner on April 13.

Papale made NFL history in 1976 when the 30-year-old schoolteacher and coach walked onto a Philadelphia Eagles try-out. Though he was older than the average rookie and did not have any college football experience, he defied the incredible odds against him and made the team.

A hero to everyday working people, Papale played with the Eagles from 1976 to 1978. A shoulder injury ended his football career in 1979. Today this Eagles’ legend is a speaker, author and spokesperson who continues to motivate people.

At the General H. M. Smith Foundation Dinner, Papale gave a powerful presentation and stressed three main messages: Give people chances because those chances may change their lives forever; Have the courage to pursue your dreams, and be willing to pay the price; and “Analyze, Adapt & Achieve!” to reach your goals and overcome obstacles.

MMA also honored another outstanding individual at this event. John W. B. Klein , Class of 1999, received the Smith Fellow Award for his generosity to MMA and was inducted into the prestigious General H.M. Smith Foundation. Klein, the manager of Houston operations for Trans-Global Solutions, was given the Smith Fellow jacket and gold watch.

According to LtCol Robert Grider, director of Institutional Advancement, the event was enjoyable and inspiring.

“This is a great event that accomplishes two things: it honors outstanding individuals; and it raises funds to sustain the exceptional education program we have at MMA,” Grider said.

MMA LEADERDedicated to our Cadets - Leaders of Tomorrow March/April 2012Volume 25, Number 5

Special Events

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

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Superintendent Col Glenn Hill presents John W. B. Klein with his Smith Fellow watch.

Superintendent Col Glenn Hill and Cadet Gabriel Gonzales presents Vince Papale with the Iwo Jima Leadership Award.

John W. B. Klein of Klein, Texas, and Vince Papale of Cherry Hill, N. J.

» After the event, cadets flock to Vince Papale for photographs (top) and autographs (bottom).

Special EventsMMA Leadership Forum

Brigadier General Joe E. Ramirez Jr., USA (Ret), Commandant of the Corps of Cadets at Texas A&M University, kicked off the MMA Leadership Forum on Feb. 10. He addressed the cadets and passed along the leadership practices he learned from observing both good and bad leaders. The soldier stated his simple but proven philosophy several times: “Take care of your people, and they’ll take care of you.”

After BG Ramirez’s opening address and leadership discussion, the cadets attended four different discussion panels taught by community leaders. The panel leaders were Velma Bowman, Trey Colvin, Wendell Curry, Robert Dunkin, James Ezell, Bobby Farris, LtCol Mark Stroman and James Tipton.

The “Leadership Traits” panel covered the 14 characteristics of a good military leader: bearing, courage, decisiveness, dependability, endurance, enthusiasm, initiative, integrity, judgment, justice, knowledge, loyalty, tact and unselfishness.

The “Leadership Principles” panel focused on 11 proven leadership guidelines: self-knowledge and improvement; be technically and tactically proficient; know your subordinates; keep your subordinates informed; set the example; insure the task is understood, supervised and accomplished; training your subordinates as a team; make sound and timely decisions; develop a sense of responsibility among your subordinates; employ your command in accordance with its capabilities; and seek responsibility and take responsibility for your actions.

At the “USMC Core Values” panel, cadets gained a deeper sense and understanding of the Marine Corps core values – honor, courage and commitment – and how they translate into action and effective leadership.The “Leadership Styles” panel discussed the three different leadership styles (authoritarian, participative and delegative) and how different siutations call for different leadership actions or styles.

The MMA Leadership Forum is held every year to further the leadership development of its cadets.

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BG Joe E. Ramirez Jr.Brigadier General Joe E. Ramirez Jr., USA (Ret), Commandant of the Corps of Cadets at Texas A&M University, left an outstanding impression on cadets and staff alike at the MMA Leadership Forum on Feb. 10.

During his 31 years of military service, BG Ramirez commanded soldiers around the world from the platoon and battery level up to the battalion, brigade and division level.

He commanded the 1st Battalion, 41st Field Artillery “Glory’s Guns” at Fort Stewart, Georgia, the 1st Cavalry Division Artillery “Red Team” at Fort Hood, Texas, and was the Deputy Division Commander for the 2nd Infantry Division in the Republic of Korea.

His numerous military awards include the: Dist inguished Service Medal; Defense Superior Service Medal; Legion of Merit; Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal; Global War on Terror Expeditionary Medal; Korean Defense Service Medal; and Parachutists Badge.

A Houston native, BG Ramirez graduated from Texas A&M University as a Distinguished Military Graduate in 1979. In the Corps of Cadets, he commanded the B Company “Street Fighters” in the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band. He returned to his alma mater in 2010 as the commandant of the military program. »

» BG Joe E. Ramirez Jr. accepts a gift from Battalion Commander Michael McGraw of Dallas.

» BG Ramirez holds a bachelor’s degree in Physical Education from Texas A&M University (1979); master’s degree in Management from Webster University (1993); and master’s degree in Strategic Studies from the United States Army War College (2000).

MMA LEADER

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Recognition

(Left to right] Cadets Antonio Hubbard of Stafford, Va.; Alex Robertson of Alvin, Texas; Andrew Courville of Lake Charles, La.; John Taylor of Jonesboro, Texas; Michael McGraw of Dallas; Bruno Lopez Alvarez of Mexico City, Mexico; and Andres Orjuela of Tampa, Fla.

2012 RGV Golden Gloves Boxing TournamentThe MMA boxing team swept 11 trophies at 2012 RGV Golden Gloves Boxing Tournament on Feb. 25. Competing in the Sub-Novice class, the MMA Leathernecks won first place in the team category. Cadet Michael McGraw of Dallas took home Outstanding Boxer and Golden Gloves Participant while SgtMaj Frederick Robertson, USMC (Ret) and Sgt John Elizondo shared Outstanding Coach.

The MMA boxing team also dominated in several divisions. Cadets Andrew Courville of Lake Charles, La., placed first in Heavyweight 190-200 and Bruno Lopez Alvarez of Mexico City, Mexico, achieved the same in Junior Middleweight 156. McGraw victored in Light Heavyweight 178.

Cadets Antonio Hubbard of Stafford, Va., captured second place in Light Heavyweight 178 as did Alex Robertson of Alvin, Texas, in Middleweight 165. Placing in third were Cadets Andres Orjuela of Tampa, Fla., in Light Welterweight 141 and John Taylor of Jonesboro, Texas, in Light Heavyweight 178.

To compete in the Sub-Novice class, participants cannot be in more than five sanctioned fights. They must also box in the 17-35 age division. The MMA boxing team is the only high school boxing team in the nation officially certified by U.S.A. Boxing.

“Boxing requires a great amount of discipline, mental focus and physical conditioning,” said Superintendent Col Glenn Hill. These athletes epitomize the values of courage, honor and commitment. I am very proud of our boxing team.”

NSDAR AwardsCadet Gabriel Gonzales of Texas City, Texas received the Good Citizen Award for Marine Military Academy from the Lt Thomas Barlow Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) on Feb. 18. The Good Citizen Award is given to high school students who demonstrate honor, service, courage, leadership and patriotism.

Cadet Miguel Sa l inas o f Brownsville, Texas received the Good Citizenship Award from the local NSDAR chapter. The Good Citizenship Award is given to eighth graders who exhibit the same virtuous qualities required for the Good Citizen Award.

Each year, the Lt. Thomas Barlow Chapter of the NSDAR holds its Awards Tea at MMA. In addition to the Good Citizen and Good Citizenship Awards, this patriotic organization gives an American History Award and a Good Citizen Scholarship. These honors are awarded to the student who submits the strongest essay.

(Left to right] Cadets Miguel Salinas of Brownsville, Texas, and Gabriel Gonzales of Texas City, Texas

MMA LEADER

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RecognitionRio Grande Valley Skills Competition

The MMA Drill Team beat out 18 other schools in the region at the Rio Grande Valley Skills Competition on March 24. In addition to winning the Best Overall trophy, the Leathernecks also placed first in the Armed Drill and Exhibition Drill categories.

According to Head Instructor MSgt Robert Fracasso, the MMA Drill Team is one of the best in the Rio Grande Valley. Though it always performs well in this tournament, the team was exceptionally strong this year, bringing home three first-place trophies out of the four categories it competed in.

“I am proud to say that after six years of competing, this is the best I have ever seen from a performance from our MMA cadets,” Fracasso said.

The cadets who competed in the event were: Captain Aboira Irumudomon of Orlando, Fla.; Benjamin Balazs of San Mateo, Calif.; Emiliano Hernandez-Summers of Santa Rosa, Calif.; Ian Eviston of Tucson, Ariz.; Eun Hyuk Kwak of Brownsville, Texas; Nicholas Hamblin of San Antonio, Texas; Colton Runyan of Austin, Texas; Miguel Salinas of Brownsville, Texas; Dylan Che of Sugar Land, Texas; Daniel Paulson of South Lake Tahoe, Calif.; Chase Williams of Austin, Texas; and Bailey Wilhelm of Broken Arrow, Okla.

The season for the drill team ended in March and will resume again next fall.

(Left to right] Cadets Eun Hyuk Kwak of Brownsville, Texas; Ian Eviston of Tucson, Ariz.; Nicholas Hamblin of San Antonio, Texas; Dylan Che of Sugar Land, Texas; Benjamin Balazs of San Mateo, Calif.; Emiliano Hernandez-Summers of Santa Rosa, Calif.; Superintendent Col Glenn Hill; Captain Aboira Irumudomon of Orlando, Fla.; Colton Runyan of Austin, Texas; Chase Williams of Austin, Texas; Miguel Salinas of Brownsville, Texas; Daniel Paulson of South Lake Tahoe, Calif.; and Bailey Wilhelm of Broken Arrow, Okla.

Merit BadgeSixteen Boy Scouts from Troop 22 earned their Journalism merit badge on Feb. 28. Over the course, the Boy Scouts learned about journalism law, newpaper operations, the construction and components of a newspaper article, writing a news story and taking photos that tell a story. The classes were taught by Andi Atkinson, director of Marketing and Public Relations at MMA.

Those who received a Journalism merit badge were: Cadets Patrick Church of Holiday, Fla.; Christopher Davis, Jr. of Bedford, N.Y.; Christopher Dunn of Roanoke Texas; Henry Frost of Dallas; Alfonso Garcia Garza of Monterry, Mexico; Zachary Garner of Terrell, Texas; Maxx Gibbs of San Antonio, Texas; Robert Lauzon of Houston; Chaunce Lee of Shanghai, China; Nathan Logan of Spring, Texas ; Seung Ho Park of Altamira, Mexico; David Rice of Hillsborough, Calif.; Brandon Van Patten of Mountain House, Calif.; Cole Warwick of Austin, Texas; Jacob Williams of San Antonio, Texas; and Shawn Williamson of Crescent City, Calif.

Cadet Christopher Dunn of Roanoke, Texas, reads over a handoout on libel law.

MMA LEADER

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Recognition

(Left to right) Front row: Keith Blake; Joan Blake; Caroline Macmanus; Director Gloria Boling; Bernie Williams; Virginia Hill; and Delores Simmons. Middle row: Assistant Director Gracie Galarza; Brent Greer; Garry Betts; Gerald Macmanus; Earl Leffelman; Hilda King; Marsha Laney; Bob Bloedorn; Teona Henry; Amy Van Deest; Jodie Hill; and Superintendent Col Glenn Hill. Last row: John Drake; Bill Laney; Tom King; Max Henry; and Don Van Deest.

« Amy and Don Van Deest

25th Anniversary Volunteer LuncheonThe Iwo Jima Museum & Gift Shop held its 25th Anniversary Volunteer Luncheon on Feb. 23. At the event, MMA honored 21 volunteers for their vital role in promoting and sustaining MMA’s historic Iwo Jima Monument and World War II museum. Superintendent Col Glenn Hill addressed the honorees during the luncheon and reminded them how their volunteer efforts set the perfect example of service and patriotism for the cadets.

MMA presents the annual Volunteer of the Year award at this recognition. This year, Amy and Don Van Deest of Iola, Wis., and Weslaco, Texas, received this honor for the 2012 year.

After the luncheon, the volunteers and staff went to the memorial sidewalk located next to the museum/gift shop for the 11th Annual Memorial Dedication. Each year, MMA places a dedication brick in the Museum Volunteer Garden Walkway to honor recently deceased volunteers. Bricks were laid for the following volunteers who passed away in the 2010 or 2011 year: Richard Steeno of Harlingen, Texas; Corrine Swaney of Harlingen, Texas; Edwin Swaney of Harlingen, Texas; and Virginia Schulte of Brownsville, Texas.

Iwo Jima Museum & Gift Shop Director Gloria Boling believes the volunteers at MMA are particularly special as they have all served their country.

“When people visit the museum, our volunteers don’t just just explain the history, they tell their own stories,” Boling said. “Their real-life stories add incredible value to the museum experience and make it more memorable and personal to visitors.”

Recent EventsNew Website

MMA launched its dynamic new website on March 19. The website has a fresh, bold design that is rich in color, photos and multi-media. It also contains additional pages of content.

According to Superintendent Col R. Glenn Hill, MMA decided it was time to refresh its brand. The best place to start was with the MMA website, which is MMA’s most important marketing tool.

“We wanted a website that was visual but informative and cutting-edge but professional,” Hill said. “I believe the new website makes an excellent impression and reflects our brand: strong, proud, detailed and progressive.”

The elaborate new website was a nine-month project that required input, diligence and cooperation from all the MMA departments. In addition to the flagship website, MMA also revamped its summer camp website. Visit MMA-TX.org to explore the new “face” of MMA.

MMA LEADER

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Recent EventsWarrior Night

Golf Company held MMA’s first Warrior Night on March 2. A Marine Corps tradition, Warrior Night is an evening of camaraderie and esprit de corps. For this event, the cadets wore their utility uniforms and painted their faces with camouflage.

Golf Company kicked off Warrior Night with a hike to the Back 40. Along the way, the cadets were “attacked” by paintball guerillas. The cadets spent the rest of the evening in a tent where they enjoyed a fried chicken meal with cake for dessert.

Drill Instructor 1stSgt Jay Foote taught the cadets how to make “grog,” a traditional, colorful mixture of motivational drinks. With green grog in their hands, the cadets made numerous toasts. They toasted to leadership, to the Marines and to the entire MMA body, including drill instructors, teachers and the mess hall.

Golf Company scheduled Warrior Night a week prior to Spring Break as a way to motivate the cadets for their final exams. Warrior Night will become an annual event for Golf Company.

Jalapeño 100On Feb. 18, four MMA cadets conquered 50 miles in the 22nd Annual Jalapeño 100 Bicycle Ride. The cyclists were: Cadets Andrew Hodge of Richardson, Texas; Caleb Reynolds of McAllen, Texas; Andrew Thomas of Austin, Texas; and Logan Workman of Tomball, Texas.

Despite 40-mile-an-hour winds and pockets of rain, all four cadets finished the event within five hours. From Harlingen, the route took them to La Feria, Rancho Viejo and San Benito before returning to Harlingen. SSgt Jose Jaramillo, co-coach of the cycling program, also participated in the ride as did George Thomas, who accompanied his son Andrew.

The Jalapeño 100 was the first event for the new MMA Cycling Team. Coached by Jaramillo and MSgt Michael Krauss, the team trains every day of the week, as weather permits, from February until the end of the semester. The cadets typically ride 15 miles on a non-windy day.

(Left to right] Cadets Andrew Thomas of Austin, Texas; Caleb Reynolds of McAllen, Texas; Andrew Hodge of Richardson, Texas; and Logan Workman of Tomball, Texas.

Cadet Jorge Resendez of Hockley, Texas, shows his warrior face.

Cadet Ivan Vidishev of Spring, Texas, unleashes his “Fighting Leatherneck” spirit.

Cadets Michael McGraw of Dallas and Edward Lopez of Laredo, Texas, get ready for chow.

In Marine fashion, Cadet Logan Workman of Tomball, Texas, cut his birthday cake.

MMA LEADER

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Recent EventsJROTC Self-Inspection

MMA performed very well on its self-inspection of the Marine Corps Junior ROTC program on Feb. 23 and 24. In Functional Areas (administration/training/supply/armory/rifle range), MMA received the top rating: “Mission Capable.”

In the Personnel and Close Order Drill inspections, MMA earned an “Outstanding” rating. In addition, 110 cadets were rated “Outstanding.” Earning the top rating was not an easy feat. The MMA military staff meticulously reviewed the cadets and continually quizzed them on Marine Corps history, regulations, customs, ethics and leadership traits.

This year, the “Best Inspected Company” award went to Delta Company.

[Left to right] Delta Company Assistant Drill Instructor MGySgt Keith Hamilton; Delta Company Drill Instructor SgtMaj Larry Carson; Cadet Aboira Irumudomon of Orlando, Fla.; Cadet Antonio Hubbard of Stafford, Va.; Superintendent Col Glenn Hill; and Commandant of Cadets SgtMaj Ford Kinsley.

Key Club InductionThe MMA Key Club recently inducted 42 new members at its annual induction ceremony on March 1. Inductees are invited to join the Key Club based on their academic, athletic and military performance. The cadets then take their official pledge at the annual event.

With 66 member this year, over a third of MMA’s cadets belong to this service organization. The Key Club sponsors several events throughout the year, including the recent “Support the Troops” drive in March and April. This program helps collect toiletries and other needed items for local soldiers serving overseas.

Cadet Spencer Crews of Dallas becomes an official member of the Key Club.

SgtMaj Ford Kinsley measures the belt slack of Cadet Taric Pierre of San Diego.

SgtMaj Albert Wilson checks the cover of Cadet Maxx Gibbs of San Antonio, Texas.

MMA LEADER

Did You Know?More than half of MMA cadets belong to a service club. MMA cadets donate more than 3,000 man hours a year to local non-profit organizations.

Cadet of the Month - February

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Kyle Watson of Lockport, Ill. - Alpha CompanyRank: Cadet Lance CorporalGrade: 8, Activity: AerospaceFuture educational goals: Attend the University of IllinoisCareer goals: To be a successful businessman or engineer

Daniel Bell of Winfield, Ill. - Echo CompanyRank: Cadet SergeantGrade: 12, Activities: Varsity football and varsity basketballFuture educational goals: Attend Kansas State UniversityCareer goals: Become a firefighter

Yulon Lei of HuBoi Wuhan, China - Fox CompanyRank: Cadet Lance CorporalGrade: 10, Activity: AerospaceFuture educational goals: Attend the Military Academy (West Point)Career goals: Join the Army

Cheng Chung of Alhambra, Calif. - Golf CompanyRank: Cadet Gunnery Sergeant Grade: 11; Activity: WeightliftingFuture educational goals: Attend and graduate from collegeCareer goals: Start my own clinic

Eun Hyuk Kwak of Seoul, Korea - Silent Drill TeamCompany: Echo, Rank: Cadet Sergeant MajorGrade: 11; Activity: Drill TeamFuture educational goals: Attend the Naval Academy Career goals: Become a Marine officer

Timothy Lyznick of Los Angeles, Calif. - Leatherneck BandCompany: Echo, Rank: Cadet Private First ClassGrade: 9; Activity: BandFuture educational goals: Attend Pepperdine University and major in businessCareer goals: Become a business entrepreneur

MMA LEADER

Cadet of the Month - March

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Eugene Fairfax III of Guadalajara, Mexico - Alpha CompanyRank: Cadet Lance CorporalGrade: 11, Activity: Drill TeamFuture educational goals: Attend UT or UTSA and major in political scienceCareer goals: To become an officer in the Marine Corps

Conner Perley of Long Island, N.Y. - Delta CompanyRank: Cadet Private First ClassGrade: 11, Activities: Boxing and weightlifting Future educational goals: Attend the Military Academy (West Point)Career goals: Be a billionaire

Tim Lyznick of Los Angeles, Calif. - Echo CompanyRank: Cadet CorporalGrade: 9, Activities: Band and trackFuture educational goals: Attend Pepperdine University and major in businessCareer goals: Own a business

Bruno Tostado of Mexico City, Mexico - Fox CompanyRank: Cadet Lance CorporalGrade: 10, Activity: GolfFuture educational goals: Graduate from collegeCareer goals: Become an architect

Spencer Crews of Dallas - Golf CompanyRank: Cadet First LieutenantGrade: 12, Activity: Weightlifting Future educational goals: Attend Texas Tech and get a degree in businessCareer goals: Become an infantry officer in the United States Marine Corps

Eugene Fairfax III of Guadalajara, Mexico - Silent Drill TeamCompany: Alpha, Rank: Cadet Lance CorporalGrade: 11, Activity: Drill TeamFuture educational goals: Attend UT or UTSA and major in political scienceCareer goals: To become an officer in the Marine Corps

MMA LEADER

College Corner Harder Courses, Easier Acceptance by Robin Farris

With college on the horizon, MMA freshmen, sophomores, and juniors need to be reminded that their course selections for high school will be of primary importance in the selective college admission process. Poor planning at this point could shut your son out when final cuts are made.

There are four key points to remember when it comes to your son’s academic course selection:• A cadet’s transcript should show a commitment to rigorous academics, escalating from year to year in academic difficulty and culminating in a senior year with at least four solid academic courses plus electives.• Cadets should take the most demanding courses for which their teachers have recommended them.• Selective colleges expect to see seniors stretching themselves academically to demonstrate their seriousness about college, to enhance their academic performance, and to assure their success at the college level.• Cadets are strongly encouraged to exceed MMA’s minimum graduation requirements with four years of mathematics and three years of foreign language. Clemson University, a moderately selective university, now requires three years of foreign language of applicants.

The following statements from Harvard University, University of San Diego, and Stanford University are very representative of the admissions evaluation processes at the most selective colleges and universities in the country: Harvard University: At Harvard, there is no single academic path we expect all students to follow, but the strongest applicants take the most rigorous secondary school curricula available to them. An ideal four-year preparatory program includes four years of English, with extensive practice in writing; four years of math; four years of science: biology, chemistry, physics, and an advanced course in one of these subjects; three years of history, including American and European history; and four years of one foreign language.

While we understand there are differences in the overall strengths of secondary schools, we are most interested in how well applicants have taken advantage of

available resources. The Admissions Committee recognizes that schools vary by size, academic program, and grading policies, so we do not have rigid grade requirements. We do seek students who achieve at a high level, and most admitted students rank at the top of their graduating classes.

University of San Diego: Our first focus is on academic ability. USD seeks serious students, and those applying as freshmen are expected to present a well-balanced secondary school program of college preparatory courses in English, foreign language, mathematics, laboratory science, history, and social science. Since this is the most important single factor in the decision, serious candidates will challenge themselves with higher- level courses and strong academic course loads even in the senior year.

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Continued on Page 11

Cadet Isaac Phillips III of Belle Chasse, La., was accepted to attend the Summer Leadership Seminar at the United States Military Academy as well as the United States Naval Academy in June 2012.

Summer Leadership

Cadet Jarrod Royal of Bandera, Texas, was accepted to attend the Summer Leadership Seminar at the United States Military Academy in June 2012.

MMA LEADER

Stanford University: At Stanford, the thorough and elaborate evaluation process in which almost the entire admissions staff is involved each winter and spring cannot be reduced to a quantifiable formula. They attempt to blend the information contained in references with the data from academic credentials.

The primary criterion for admission is academic excellence, and the most important single credential is the transcript. There are no minimum figures set for grade point average, test scores, or rank in class, nor are there specific high school course requirements for entrance to Stanford. They do, however, look for those students who have selected as rigorous an academic program as possible, and who have achieved distinction in a range of academic courses.

The ablest candidates have mostly “A’s” in their courses, but Stanford does find that some students with lower grade point averages may show more real promise for strong college-level course work. We also find that the same may apply with regard to test scores - very high scores; though they may in many cases confirm scholastic promise, do not guarantee admission to Stanford.

It is always to an applicant’s benefit to have taken the most demanding courses available in their high school. A strong performance in honors or Advanced Placement classes indicates a student’s ability and desire to meet academic challenges.

So, all that being said, the best gauge of how your cadet will do in college is his performance in high school. If he has pushed himself, colleges will note that. Robin Farris is the College Placement Officer at MMA.

»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»

College Visits, College Questions by Robin FarrisSummer is almost upon us and now is the time for juniors and sophomores to visit prospective colleges. College visits are fun and exciting, but they have a serious purpose. Your son should be prepared to ask the right questions in order to choose the right college for himself. As parents, you should also be well prepared.

Below are some basic questions every parent should ask during the college visit (be prepared for long sighs from your son while asking):• Safety: What is college campus safety like? Are there emergency call boxes throughout campus? What kind of training do campus security personnel receive?• Dorm Rules: Can students have overnight guests? Are there rules about »

Continued from Page 10

College Corner

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» visitation by members of the opposite sex? How about substance-free dorms?• Dorm Security: What security measures are in place in the dormitories? How is access to the dorms controlled?• Roommates: How does the dorm pair roommates? What is the process for handling conflicts or incompatibility between roommates?• Support: What academic and emotional support systems are available to students? Do you have a counseling center? Is there tutoring help available?• Medical: What medical services are available on campus? Where is the nearest hospital? How are students billed for medical services? Is student health insurance available?• Parties : Is there a lot of “partying” on campus? Are there certain activities that are grounds for expulsion? Will I be informed if my son does something illegal?• Retention: What is the return rate for second-year students? What are some of the reasons students leave or transfer?• Financial Aid: What is a typical financial aid package like? Do most students receive financial aid? Can you help us with the financial paperwork? Under what conditions might my son lose financial aid?

In short, the key to a successful college visit is simple: ask, ask, ask! Robin Farris is the College Placement Officer at MMA.

MMA LEADER

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Visitors & FriendsSWAT Team

Members of the Cameron County Sheriff’s Office SWAT team made a special visit to the Boy Scouts of Troop 22 on March 20. The officers gave an excellent presentation, fully explaining the mission of a SWAT team, their tactical procedures and the proper use of individual weapons and equipment items.

As the Boy Scouts and their guests learned, a SWAT (Special Weapons and Tactics) team is an elite unit in law enforcement that performs high-risk operations. The duties of SWAT team members include: performing hostage rescues and counter-terrorism operations; serving high risk arrest and search warrants; subduing barricaded suspects; and engaging heavily-armed criminals.

To perform their jobs, SWAT officers are often equipped with specialized firearms, including submachine guns, assault rifles, breaching shotguns, riot control agents, stun grenades and sniper rifles. They also have specialized equipment, such as heavy body armor, ballistic shields, entry tools, armored vehicles, advanced night vision optics and motion detectors .

After the presentation, the Boy Scouts were then given the rare opportunity to handle and wear the specialized weapons and equipment. To their delight, they were then allowed access to a real SWAT tactical vehicle.

Cadet Bruno Tostado of Mexico City, Mexico

MMA LEADER

SportsGolf Star

Cadet Bruno Tostado of Mexico City, Mexico, recently won second place in two regional golf tournaments. Though he is new to the Rio Grande Valley, this first-year cadet is the “buzz” of the local high school golf circuit.

On March 23 and 24, Tostado competed against more than 160 participants from 18 schools across the region in the Hidalgo High School Invitational Two-Day Golf Tournament in Pharr, Texas. His scores by day were 74 and 79. He finished second overall, just two strokes behind the leader.

On March 2 at the RGV Invitational Golf Tournament in Harlingen, Texas, he took second place with a round of 75 on the day, just one stroke behind the leader.

“Since his attendance at MMA, he has been the ‘talk’ of the Valley for his exceptional performance in golf,” said Drill Instructor MSgt Robert Fracasso.

Cadet John Taylor of Jonesboro, Texas, aims a sniper rifle.

Sgt Carlos del Bosque supervises the cadets as they handle the SWAT equipment.

Cadet Chase Williams of Austin, Texas, swaps his utility uniform for a SWAT uniform.

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Visitors & FriendsLEAD Complex

MMA’s Lead Complex is a first-class training facility that allows for rappelling, ziplining, rock climbing, circuit training, high/low ropes courses, leadership reaction courses and confidence courses. The activities from this complex help build strength, confidence and teamwork, and MMA cadets are not the only ones to benefit from it.

The Granbury High School JROTC unit utilized the LEAD Complex Feb. 24-28. About 50 cadets made the journey from Granberry, Texas, to climb, jump, crawl and even fly through the air depending on the activity. This is the fifth straight year Granbury High School has conducted its annual JROTC training at MMA.

The Edcouch-Elsa High School JROTC program also used the LEAD Complex to conduct leadership training on March 3. At least 40 students from Edcouch and Elsa, Texas, challenged themselves physically and mentally from the various obstacles presented by the complex.

On March 12, Abundant Life Church in Harlingen, Texas, took its youth group to experience the LEAD Complex. The Lead Complex was an excellent way for the 20 teenagers to learn, have fun and bond with one another during Spring Break.

The LEAD Complex is utilized by cadets throughout the school year, by campers during the summer and by groups depending upon availability.

DEA PilotsPilots from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) out of McAllen, Texas, spoke to the Air Wing on March 5. Scott Morgan, a DEA agent and pilot, primarily addressed the cadets. He told them of aviation jobs within the DEA and the education, experience and qualities the agency looks for when it screens and hires its aeronauts.

At the end of the presentation, the cadets were able to go outside and jump into the Cessna Citation Bravo, the jet used by the DEA, as well as the BAC-167 Strikemaster, the jet owned by Brian Childs.

There are currently 60 cadets enrolled in aerospace courses at MMA.

Cadet Mario Vandamme of Panama City, Panama, sits in the BAC-167 Strikemaster.

MMA LEADER

A girl from the Edcouch-Elsa High School JROTC unit takes her first zipline plunge.

A boy from the Granberry High School JROTC program steadily rappels from the tower.

The teenagers from Abundant Life Church tackle the obstacle course.

Cadet Billy Sanders of Victoria, Texas, rests against the DEA’s Cessna Citation Bravo.

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Recent CorrespondenceParent Testimonials

Posted on MMA Facebook page on March 15, 2012 by Ron Brigance

My son Matt spent his high school years at MMA and distinguished himself... made his parents and grandparents very proud... and insured that he would have a successful future. We all sacrificed in order to make this happen... but that is what being an adult leader is about. We missed his daily presence, but he has been a good son and an asset to his family now and to his country. What he learned there in leadership and academics he could have NEVER gotten in public schools. I’m proud of you son!

MMA is a great school and is led by professionals who care about the future of our country and the future of their Cadets above all. I strongly recommend to any parent or grandparent to consider this Academy for their sons and grandsons. The sacrifices are minimal compared to the end result.

Posted on Dr. Laura website on February 15, 2012

Dear Dr. Laura,

I wrote you a few years ago about what military boot camp did for my unmotivated 13 year old son. He is now 16 years old, in his third year at a Marine Military Academy and was just promoted to Cadet Staff Sergeant last week. His dream is to be accepted into the Naval Academy, serve in the U.S. Marine Corps, and then perhaps go into law enforcement.

All I can tell you is my son is doing incredibly well and I am so grateful for your advice to callers ... If it weren’t for you promoting military school for boys, we never would have considered it nor had the guts to actually do it. Marine Military Academy and their staff of all retired US Marine Corps Drill Instructors know exactly how to raise a boy into a man. The expectations are high, the structure is tight, the discipline is swift, and the pride these boys have in themselves is evident by the way they stand tall in their uniforms, look adults in the eye and shake hands with confidence.

Thank you and God bless you! R. - A Proud Mommy Type

MMA LEADER

Visitors & FriendsHkamti Plane Search

Explorer Brenda Davidson-Shaddox of Bandera, Texas, gave an intriguing presentation to the MMA cadets on April 5.

Davidson-Shaddox has photo-graphed the ethnic tribes of Myanmar (formerly Burma) for the past 15 years. She knew from history books that American and Japanese planes crashed in the Myanmar mountains during World War II. In 2003, she learned from the Naga people the general area where one particular aircraft crashed.

In February 2007, Davidson-Shaddox organized and led an expedition to find the crash site. The mission was to identify the specific plane and its crew, and, ultimately, notify family members where the plane was found.

The group went through jungles and remote villages and plenty of mud to reach the crash site in Hkamti. The explorers discovered that it was an American plane by unearthing a piece of the engine that read “Aircraft DC-3, Westinghouse Elec. Co,” but they were unable to find something to indicate the plane number.

Exploring, however, is more than going places or finding things, it is also about people. Davidson-Shaddox is an expert and friend of the Nagas and gives and raises funds to support an orphanage. »

» Cadets who wish to partake in expeditions should visit explorers.org to learn more. Student grants are available, and Davidson-Shaddox said she is willing to sponsor an interested cadet.

» Brenda Davidson-Shaddox accepts a gift from Battalion Commander Michael McGraw of Dallas.

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Alumni AffairsLt Winston Elliott IV

Lt Winston Elliott IV, Class of 2005, departed to Afghanistan on March 13.

Originally from Houston, Elliott is a platoon leader in the 82nd Airborne Division based in Ft. Bragg, N.C. He attended the University of Georgia in Athens on an Army ROTC scholarship and he received his commission to the U.S. Army upon his graduation in May 2009.

Elliott married Marti Baker in Midland, Texas on June 11, 2011. She and his family now wait for his return, which should be December 2012.

William KaneWilliam Kane, Class of 2011, is a freshman pitcher at Chesapeake College in Wye Mills, Md.

Since baseball season opened on Feb. 28, he has pitched five games in the third innings. As of April 6, Kane has 14 strikeouts and eight walks, a good ratio for a pitcher. He is well on track to becoming a starting pitcher for the Skipjacks. The southpaw is originally from West Palm Beach, Fla.

At MMA, Kane pitched and played first base. He was also a tremendous hitter.

“He’s one of the few guys I’ve seen to hit numerous home runs on our own field,” said Athletic Director Chris Elliott. “On our field, they have to hit the ball into the wind, which kills the ball’s power. Despite all that, he continued to crush the ball and hit it over our scoreboard.”

Levi NoguessLevi Noguess, Class of 1981, is going to fly 50 different planes to raise $50,000 for charity on Dec. 12, 2012 – his 50th birthday! Sponsorship levels for this clever, ambitious fundraiser start at $50.50 and go up to $1,050.50. To become a sponsor or to learn more about Noguess’ “Fly 50 For 50” project, visit flywithlevi.com.

Noguess is an instructor pilot with Avenge, Inc. in Fort Hood, Texas. Originally from Menard, Texas, this former Army aviator now lives Harker Heights, Texas.

Keep in Touchby Col Glenn Hill

Nothing gives me – or the entire staff at MMA – more pleasure than to see an alumnus come through our doors. It is music to my ears when he shares a funny MMA story, asks about his former teachers and drill instructor, and tells us about his present life.

I realize it’s not always easy to visit your alma mater. You may live halfway around the world or you may simply have a very hectic schedule. However, you can still keep in touch.

At least once a year, take five minutes to send us an e-mail or post on our Facebook page or (gasp!) write us a letter. Tell us about the goals you are working on or the achievements and proud moments in your life. We want to know!

Please also be sure to notify us when your phone, e-mail or address changes. We want to make sure you’re always invited to special events, such as the Alumni Reunion. As an MMA graduate, you will forever be part of the Leatherneck family, and we take a sincere interest in your life.

So the next time you’re in Paris, send us a postcard! The next time you’re in South Texas, please STOP BY. Col Glenn Hill is the superintendent of MMA.

(In case you’ve forgotten how to reach us, look on the back page of this newsletter!)

MMA LEADER

Marti & Lt Winston Elliott IV

William Kane

Levi Noguess

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MMA LEADER

To give in honor or memory of someone, call 956-421-9231 or e-mail reyes@MMA-TX.org.

Admissions

The MMA Leader is printed by

The MMA LEADER is a bi-monthly publication for the patrons of Marine

Military Academy. To receive an electronic version via e-mail, contact

Maj Harold Compton at 956-421-9409 or compton@MMA-TX.org.

Editor: Andi Atkinson956.421.9235

atkinson@MMA-TX.org

Marine Military Academy320 Iwo Jima Blvd.

Harlingen, TX 78550956.423.6006

Important Dates• May 19, 21-23: 2nd Semester Exams• May 25: Eagle Scout Ceremony, 10 a.m.; Academic Awards/Spring Sports Awards, 1:30 p.m.• May 26: Graduation Parade & Awards, 9 a.m.; Graduation: 11 a.m. (flight departure after 1 p.m.)• June 30: Summer Camp/ESL Summer Camp Registration• July 27: Field Meet, 5 p.m. • July 28: Summer Camp/ESL Summer Camp Graduation, 9 a.m. • Aug. 5: Football Camp (Athletic Director approval), by 3 p.m.; Leadership Orientation Check-In (Invitation Only), by 6 p.m.• Aug. 11: Registration/Check-in for Plebes, 8 a.m. to noon• Aug. 12: Check-in for Returning Cadets, by 6 p.m.

Re-Enrollment & Enrollment for 2012-13Re-enrollment contracts for returning MMA cadets are due by Friday, June 1. Cadets whose contracts arrive by the deadline are guaranteed admission for the upcoming year and, if eligible, will be the first to be awarded academic scholarships. Parents who did not receive the re-enrollment contract in the mail should contact Jay Perez at 956-421-9251 or perez@MMA-TX.org.

MMA is currently accepting applications for the fall semester as well as for summer camp. To enroll a young man in either program or to forward enrollment information to a friend or relative, visit MMA-TX.org and click on the Admissions tab and then on the How to Apply link.

Check-in for MMA Summer Camp is on Saturday, June 30 from 8 a.m. to noon. For the 2012-13 school year, check-in for new students (plebes) is on Saturday, Aug. 11 from 8 a.m. to noon. For returning cadets, check-in is on Sunday, Aug. 12 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

To see important dates for the upcoming school year, visit MMA-TX.org and click on the Cadet Life tab and then on the School Calendar link.

Recent Donations

In Honor Of• Mrs. Gwendolyn Carson

• 1stSgt Jay C. Foote, USMC (Ret)• MSgt Robert Fracasso, USMC (Ret)

• CWO3 Edward D. Harris, USMC (Ret)• GySgt Frank Martinez, USMC (Ret)

• Capt William J. Murphy II, USMC - MMA ’96• Mr. & Mrs. Jerry & Marilyn Rothman

In Memory Of• Col Robert W. L. Bross, USMC (Ret)

• Mrs. Evelyn East• 1stLt Herbert V. Groff

• Gen Samuel Jaskilka, USMC (Ret)• Mrs. Phyllis B. Schuh

• Pfc Brian A. Thornton, USMC, KIA, ROK 1951• Cpl Herman Eugene Weber

Institutional Advancement