honoring fallen - new mexico military institute

MAY 2019

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

New Mexico Military Institute • Roswell, New Mexico

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DISPATCHES NMMI’s Communit y News and E vent swww.nmmi.edu • 2019 MAY EDITION

Honoring tHe FallenBridges for the Fallen: SGT Sanders Bridge Dedication

NMMI DISPATCHESCelebrating Excellence in Duty, Honor, Achievement Since 1891

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A Global Military School for Leadership Development

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The New Mexico Military Institute is the nation’s oldest state-supported, nationally accredited, co-educational college preparatory military boarding high school and junior college; offering four years of high school and the first two years of college.

The NMMI Dispatches is a publication of the New Mexico Military Institute Marketing Department. Check out additional articles on wordpress.nmmi.edu/nmmipost. Please send all comments to [email protected]

• Layout/ Design/ Edit (sort of)- Rodney Austin• SSAS- Jennifer Rawdon• Sports Editor- Geoff Gunn• Printed by the Roswell Daily Record

Special thanks to the NMMI Cadets, Faculty and Staff and the Roswell Daily Record for their contributions. Thank you!

On the Cover Evening photo of November Troop lining up on Roswell’s Main

Street bridge during the SGT Sander Bridge Dedication.

LETTER SUBMISSION POLICY

Letters can be submitted to the NMMI Dispatches via the office in Lusk Hall or 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. Anonymous letters or letters under a pseudonym will not be printed. Opinions expressed solely ref lect those of the author and do not ref lect the opinions of NMMI employees or state employees.

About the Cover On April 30, 2019 a ceremony was

held on N. Main Street in honor of NMMI 2004 HS Alumnus Christopher Sanders. The purpose of the ceremony was to honor a fallen soldier in the naming of a permanent structure under the program, Bridges for the Fallen.

Bridges for the Fallen was founded on April 12, 2012 in Harwich, Massachusetts by Rob Mador. The intention of the non-profit is to honor fallen heroes and their families by bringing light to their selfless service and sacrifice to our country and ensure their legacy is never forgotten.

With NMMI’s November Troop on the bridge, the rest of the Corps of Cadets stood in silence on Main Street, which was closed down for the ceremony. The family of SGT Christopher Sanders was present on

DISPATCHES May 2019www.nmmi.edu

the steps of Pearson Auditorium for the ceremony, which consisted of the Invocation by Father Jerick, a short speech by Mayor Kintigh and Superintendent Major General Grizzle reading the Bridge Dedication Proclamation. During the reading, November Troop participated in the lighting of candles on the bridge and Echo Taps was played. While the final notes fell on the silent spectators, the children of SGT Sanders, Cadet Christopher Sanders (of November Troop) and Jacquelyn, unveiled the sign with handheld spot lights.

“Since the day of this common pedestrian bridge’s installation, every cadet at NMMI has crossed over it one time or another. It is appropriate that the Sanders family consider this bridge in dedication to their son’s services and sacrifice. It will be a constant reminder not only to the NMMI cadets, but to the public at large of one of our son’s selfless servitude to the community and to his brothers and sisters in harm’s way.

A memorial sign dedicated to the Sanders Bridge shall be placed at the foot of the East side steps. A portion of it reads:

---See SGT Sanders Bridge, pg.12

NMMI DISPATCHES Celebrating Excellence in Duty, Honor, Achievement Since 1891

PAGE 3MAY 2019

Cody Parkey, whose playoff game winning attempt struck the upright and then deflected off the crossbar back into the playing the field resulting in a devastating one point loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. Hitting the upright is not uncommon, but deflecting off the upright and the crossbar is an extremely rare event!

Credit to LTC Surgett for extending the latitude and flexibility for such a project to be produced. Many Science Labs are monotonous step-by-step exercises which leave little leeway for creativity or innovation. Cadet Claypool’s choice for this project is a humorous idea, not intended to mock the Bear placekicker, requiring critical thinking to design and implement. Colton recreated the “Double Doink” project to mitigate the pain he felt as a diehard Bear’s fan in a contest where a win was literally centimeters away!

Finally, Colton’s Physics project did not escape the attention of Denver Bronco linebacker Joe Jones. Cadet Claypool contacted Jones and Jones then produced a video lauding the NMMI cadet’s effort.

The link to Jones’ video is (https://www.cameo.com/v/3twyoAf_j ).

NMMI faculty member LTC John Surgett was an engineer prior to dedicating himself to the profession of teaching. His teaching style, as a mathematics, physics, and engineering educator, has always been project based ensuring a connection between dry “answer in the back of book” equations and something intriguing in the real world.

One such project tasked his students to create a device where the manipulation of electrostatic field forces causes an object to levitate. An object that is levitating appears to be defying the force of gravity while being suspended in midair. The object’s floating motion in space is due to the electrostatic force acting on it being stronger than our planet’s gravitational force.

One of his more imaginative students decided he wanted that object to be a metal football. Cadet Colton Claypool produced some levity (along with the levitation) and guided a “metallic football” toward an upright simulating the “Double Doink” from the 2018 NFC Wild Card game.

Readers may recall the misfortunes of the Chicago Bear placekicker,

Cadet Colton Claypool (left) and Cadet John McIntyre are holding the Cody Parkey Kicking Bonanza levitating device.

By MAJ Steven YoungAssistant Professor of Mathematics

Some Levitating Levity

All of the cadet groups did a wonderful job of serving as “Ambassadors” of the Institute. Members of NMMI Faculty and Commandant’s Staff who supported cadet travel included COL Cheryl Martinez, Math Professor and hornist; LTC Nancy Hein, Biology Professor and bassoonist; and CPT Margaret Novak, HQ Troop TLA. The Goss Exhibition Drill Team was supervised by sponsor CSM Ron Fabec, NMMI JROTC Instructor and tubist. LTC Steve Thorp directed the Concert Choir and Vocal Ensemble, and CPT Bill Lamb directed the Regimental Concert Band, Jazz Band, and the combined band and choir selections.

Cadets in the NMMI Regimental Bands and Concert Choir, accompanied by the cadet drill team, the Goss Rifles, represented the Institute well during the Music Department’s recent spring tour through northern New Mexico and central Colorado. The Concert Band, HQ Live! Jazz Band, Concert Choir and Vocal Ensemble performed on the Santa Fe Plaza, a National Historic Landmark in downtown Santa Fe, at the Colorado State Veterans Home in Aurora, CO, and at the Colorado Military Academy, a military-styled elementary and middle school associated with the Civil Air Patrol located in Colorado Springs, CO.

By LTC Steve ThorpNMMI Choral Director & Music Department Chair

Another SucceSSful MuSic DepArtMent Spring tour


PAGE 4 MAY 2019

Early Commissioning Program

aware of. As indicated above, the size of the Institution has no correlation to the number of lieutenants they produce. I was invited to attend the commissioning ceremony at the University of New Mexico, an institution with an enrollment over 30,000. UNM commissioned nine (9) total in three services, Army, Navy and Air Force. The four military junior colleges produce between 120 and 150 new lieutenants per year for the United States Army. The Army and Cadet Command rely on us to meet their assigned mission. The second factor is diversity. From the last briefing I received, the senior military colleges (Norwich, VMI, Virginia Tech, Texas A&M, The Citadel and North Georgia) have a diversity feed into the Army from the lieutenants they produce of approximately 8%. The diversity feed from the military junior colleges was 24%.

I hope this helps to explain this issue. If not, please ask me when I am visiting your Alumni gathering.

NMMI commissioned when any of our Alumni were here, was based on a quota provided by Cadet Command, not based on how many we wanted to recruit and commission.

Recently an effort was made by Cadet Command to close a number of low performing ROTC units across the country. What defines “low performing” units that produce less than 14 lieutenants annually. Cadet Command produced a list of 13 ROTC units or schools and sent them letters of termination. As typical, Cadet Command failed to recognize the power of the Congressional Delegation of each state. Soon they had to rescind their letter.

I am attaching a picture from the University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond, OK. UCO is one of the regional universities in Oklahoma with an enrollment of over 16,000. At their December commissioning ceremony, they commissioned one (1) new lieutenant. In contrast NMMI commissioned five (5) and we are scheduled to commission 25 during our May commissioning ceremony. I do not know what UCO’s quota or mission is for the 2018/2019 school year but I do know what NMMI’s quota is and we will meet our assigned mission. I might add that if we have the opportunity to exceed mission, we have to ask permission from Cadet Command to go over mission.

There are two other significant factors of which you should be

promotions, discharges, all factor into the number of new lieutenants that will be needed on an annual basis. Once that number is determined, the number that will be commissioned from West Point is subtracted, a number that will be commissioned through Federal Officer Commissioning School (OCS), is determined and subtracted and finally a number that will be commissioned through Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) will be determined. That number is given to United States Cadet Command. Cadet Command takes that number and breaks it down between their 273 ROTC units across the country and assigns each a quota. So once again, whatever the number of lieutenants that

When LTC (NMMI) Danny Armijo and I are traveling around the country as part of the Alumni Outreach program, I always include in my updates the status of the Early Commissioning Program. I report the number of second lieutenants we commission each year, whether we meet our mission as assigned by United States Army Cadet Command, etc.

Frequently when I report that we have commissioned between 30 and 35 new lieutenants, I get verbally attacked with comments about what has happened to the program. The Alumni in the room throw out the number of lieutenants that were commissioned when they were at NMMI and equate that number with the number I just mentioned, their number is always higher, and believe that something is wrong with our program.

I immediately attempt to explain to them that the number of lieutenants that NMMI commissions each year, regardless of what year that was, is a quota assigned to NMMI by Cadet Command. We do not have any input as to what that quota is and we do not have the ability to simply recruit and commission all of the lieutenants we want and then give them to the Army and say, “Here, you do something with them.”

The G-1, Personnel Officer, for the entire United States Army, determines how many new lieutenants are needed on an annual basis. Retirements,

University of Central Oklahomas student received a military commission with her completion of the UCO Army ROTC program and bachelor’s degree.Photo Courtesy-UCO Photo Services

From the desk of the Superintendent


PAGE 5MAY 2019

Proud Supporter of the New Mexico Military Institute

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Visit their gift shop and find something for everyone, whether believer or skeptic.

By Cadet Michael Carlmon Van Hoven

Bataan MeMorial Death March 2019

With the execution of the 30th Annual Bataan Memorial Death March, the commemorative event saw to the largest assembly of 8,631 participants, of whom had the opportunity to endure a 26.2 or 14.1-mile ruck march or run.

The Bataan Memorial Death March, founded in 1989 by cadets of the New Mexico State University, was commemorated to the abhorrent events of the infamous Bataan Death March during WWII, where approximately 76,000 Filipino and American prisoners of war were forcibly marched by Japanese forces for five to twelve days from Mariveles, Bataan, to San Fernando, Pampanga. Under horrendous conditions, thousands of POWs lost their lives throughout

the 66-mile (106-km) ordeal.

Amongst the group of participants in the Memorial March were thirty-three volunteering cadets from the New Mexico Military Institute, whom of which experienced rigorous and challenging training in preparation for the 26.2-mile marathon. Under the guidance of cadre members, and the leadership of Team Captain, Cadet Antonio Lopez, the premise of this training was to develop the cadet’s tolerance for heavy weight and muscle fatigue, as well as build the groups’ capabilities as a cohesive unit and team. Such development consisted of slab runs around Colt Field and progressive four to six mile ruck marches, culminating to a

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”.

----see Bataan 2019, pg.7

“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. “

Cadet dawdy - 2019 Class daniels sCholar


PAGE 6 MAY 2019

Dr. Cedric Page-NMMI BOR Member John Garcia-NMMI BOR Member

As the Dean of the Faculty at DigiPen Institute of Technology in Redmond, Washington, and Dean of Instruction at UNM-Los Alamos, Dr. Page served as the chief academic officer in all areas related to the faculty, the curriculum, academic programs, and academic support services.

As Executive Director of the UNM-Los Alamos campus, Dr. Page served as the chief executive officer for the branch campus. He retired as Professor Emeritus Geography in January 2017 from UNM-Los Alamos and currently teaches online geography courses at UNM-Los Alamos. Dr. Page has consulted with public, private, and nonprofit sector clients on topics that include team building; organizational performance and accountability; accreditation; leadership; institutional diversity (race, class and ethnicity); and teaches courses on urban, human and regional geography.

Dr. Page has served as a director on the following non-profit boards: Boys & Girls Clubs of Pierce County; Tacoma-Pierce County Math, Engineering & Science Achievement (MESA); the Board of Trustees of the United Way of Northern New Mexico; the Los Alamos Resource Board of Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Northern New Mexico; and the Regional Development Corporation (New Mexico). He served as president of the Santa Fe Branch of the N.A.A.C.P.; UNM-LA Faculty Senate representative; and as member of the KUNM Radio Advisory Board. Recently, he served on search committees for Big Brothers/Big Sisters-Mountain Region (CEO) and Santa Fe Community College (President). Dr. Page is a public commissioner on the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC,

University, and earned a master’s degree (geography) and doctoral degree (geography) from Rutgers University in New Jersey. In June 1995, Dr. Page completed the Management Development Program at Harvard University.

Dr. Page held faculty positions at the USAF Academy in Colorado Springs (ROTC Commissioned Officer, USAF), the University of Colorado at Denver, and the University of New Mexico-Los Alamos. He also served as executive director of the Community Technical Skills Center, a nonprofit training organization in Denver, Colorado.

Dr. Page held the position of Associate Director for Minority Affairs and Academic Programs at the Washington Higher Education Coordinating Board. He was responsible for developing and coordinating state-level policy initiatives and planning to increase the participation and achievement by people of color and students with disabilities; for monitoring gender equity; and administering the state’s degree authorization, academic program review and the State Approving Agency (veterans’ education programs).

As Director of the Center for Social Responsibility and Community at the State University of New York, College at Oneonta, Dr. Page was responsible for administration of grant funds, faculty development of service-learning courses, campus-wide student volunteer and service efforts through the Center, and leading research and community collaboration regarding service.

During the 2019 New Mexico Legislative session held in Santa Fe, New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham nominated two new NMMI Governing Board of Regents. Both were confirmed days later by the NM Senate as per the NM Statutes. The Statutes require five (5) Regents for NMMI each to be nominated by the sitting Governor and to serve six-year terms. The Terms are staggered in order that to avoid having only three (3) Regents, the minimum needed to serve as a quorum. Regent Phill Ingrim, and Regent Stirling Spencer completed their terms on December 31, 2018. Their departure left COL Tim Paul (I), President of the BOR, COL Barb Trent (R), Vice President of the BOR, and BOR member Brad Christmas (R). The Statute also limits the political party affiliation of the BOR members to no more than three. In this case, both of the new regents are of the Democratic Party. NMMI Administration hosted an all-day training session for the new Regents on April 25th followed by a regularly scheduled BOR meeting on April 26th. Neither of the two new regents are NMMI alumni, which is not rare or recent as many non-alums have served on various Boards of Regents at NMMI. Both Regents come with significant experience as posted within their curriculum vitae’s following. NMMI welcomes Regent Dr. Cedric Page and Regent John Garcia to the Old Post.

Cedric D. Page received a Bachelor of Arts degree in geography from Syracuse

NMMI Welcomes Two New Board of Regents MembersArlington VA), and the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE, Alexandria, VA).

Dr. Page has travelled throughout the U.S. and to Canada, Mexico, Spain, France, Luxembourg, Belgium, Germany, Panama, Jamaica, Eleuthera (Bahamas), and the Dominican Republic. He enjoys golfing, cooking, reading and challenging Scrabble© games with his family and friends. He is married to Doris A. Page, M.D. (retired) and they have two adult daughters and a grandson.

John Garcia is currently the District Director of the United States Small Business Administration’s for the New Mexico District Office located in Albuquerque, New Mexico. He was appointed to this position in October 2016. He is responsible for the statewide delivery of SBA programs and services to support business owners in starting and growing their businesses, create jobs and develop local economies through capital, contracting, exporting and counseling initiatives throughout New Mexico. Garcia first-hand knowledge in business and government, with a strong commitment to our Veterans in our local communities brings a unique asset and advocacy for New Mexico small businesses.

Prior to joining the SBA, John Garcia was President and owner of Garcia & Associates, a privately owned consulting company with over 25 years of professional administrative and hands-on experience in the area of inter-governmental relations working closely with the public and private sector at the federal and state level specializing in

----See Board of Regents, pg.8


PAGE 7MAY 2019

final training event which involved ape-walks and buddy-drags across a 400m field and two box-runs through NMMI’s Hagerman Barracks. This prerequisite would mark each individual’s earned position on the team and honorary NMMI Bataan team shirts.

“As a leader, I believe this is an excellent tool to assess people under stress. I believe that every cadet that has the opportunity to do the Bataan Memorial Death March SHOULD,” said Team Captain, Cadet Lopez. “The best aspect of Bataan for me was showing people what they are capable of and giving them a sense of achievement and confidence in their own [physical] abilities and that of their team through vigorous training,” said

Lopez. “I am extremely grateful for my Co-Captain, Cadet Padilla, for sticking it out with me through another year of Bataan and Ranger Challenge. This was an extremely large turnout for Bataan (last year was only about seven cadets) and I am very proud of those that finished their training and march, especially Cadet Jones, my Guideon Bearer (Guide)”. Those cadets who participated in the Bataan Memorial Death March were recognized in front of the entire Corps when the Commandant, LTC Graff, presented them with their finisher medal.

A video of this ceremony can be viewed at https://www.nmmi.edu/rotc-college/.

----from Bataan 2019, pg.5nMMi in the news

NMMI junior college freshman Trinity Fautanu won the 2019 New Mexico Golden Gloves Super Heavyweight Boxing title, held in Albuquerque, NM on April 6-7. Fautanu won his championship bout with a technical knockout (TKO) in the second-round. He is pictured with his boxing coach Adam Davies.


PAGE 8 MAY 2019

strategic planning, tactical marketing, and business development with a special emphasis on veteran wellness and stability.

Garcia & Associates, is a service-disable veteran owned company, which consistently demonstrated excellent interpersonal and communicative skills, critical thinking, and strategic reasoning, sound counseling for both the public and private sector leaders in complex matters, providing sound judgment and a business acumen. Garcia consistently demonstrated cultural sensitivity, planning and project management skills with a strong tactical understanding of issues and needs of small business owners, veterans and their families as well as military members with an emphasis in wellness, education, employment and business development

John M. Garcia was appointed by the White House as Deputy Assistant Secretary for Intergovernmental Affairs for the United States Department of Veterans Affairs in June 2011. Garcia oversaw VA’s Intergovernmental, Tribal Government, International, and Consumer Affairs Programs. He was responsible for developing, managing and coordinating the department–wide intergovernmental and consumer affairs programs, while providing VA senior leadership with strategic advice, guidance and information by fostering partnerships and acting as a liaison between state, local, tribal and international governments.

Prior to joining the VA, he was appointed by Governor Bill Richardson in January of 2003 as the first Cabinet Secretary of the New Mexico Department of Veterans Services. In 1991 Garcia was also appointed to serve as Deputy Chief of Staff for the administration of New Mexico Governor Bruce King and during the King administration was alao appointed as the Cabinet Secretary of the New Mexico Economic Development Department.

Among his numerous awards, he has most recently been presented with the Profile of Courage Award by the Vietnam Veterans of New Mexico. He has received the New Mexico Veteran Small Business Advocate of the Year Award by the New Mexico Small Business Administration. He was presented VA’s National Secretary’s Leadership Award and has been honored by the National

Association of State Directors of Veterans Affairs for his leadership as President of the organization with the Iron Mike Award. He was recognized with the National Pillar of the Veteran Business Movement Award, and recently was presented with the Veteran Advocate of the Year Award by the Vietnam Veterans of America, New Mexico Chapter. Garcia also is listed among the Who’s Who Among Hispanic Americans. He is a graduate of Leadership Albuquerque and was awarded the New Mexico Business Leadership Award by N.M. De Colores, the National Hispanic Leadership Award by the Mexican American Foundation and the International Leadership Award from The American Center.

Garcia has served on numerous boards and commissions and most recently was a member of the National Small Business Administration Veteran Business Advisory Board, the U.S. Association of Veterans in Business, and the White House Task Force on Veteran Business Development. He is also Past President of the National Association of State Directors of Veterans Affairs.

In 1969 Garcia was drafted into the United States Army and took his Basic and Advance Infantry Training at Fort Ord., California. He served with the 4th Infantry Division in the Central Highlands of South Vietnam from 1969-1970, and was honorably discharged in 1971.

Garcia is a founding member of the Vietnam Veterans of New Mexico and the New Mexico Vietnam Veterans of America. He served 12 years as a Commissioner for the New Mexico Veterans Service Commission. In 1982 he also served in Washington DC as the National Deputy Director of the Vietnam Veterans Leadership Program an initative established by President Ronald Reagan. He was also actively involved with the dedication of the National Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, DC.

He is a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the American Legion, the Disabled American Veterans and a life member of the Vietnam Veterans of America.

Mr. Garcia attended the University of Albuquerque, Chamber of Commerce Institute at Stanford University and the Kenan-Flagler Business School at University of North Carolina.

----from Board of Regents, pg.6

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Bern Beatty, Executive Secretary to Superintendent Grizzle, started racing junior dragsters at eight years old? She’s still racing but her dragster is bigger and faster now. It’s a family affair! Her husband, daughter, dad, mom and sister all race too!

DiD You KnoW...


PAGE 9MAY 2019

Israel as viewed from the Jordanian side of the Jordan River.

sites listed above are all in present day Jordan, and have been recognized as the actual sites going back over fifteen hundred years. The church, built near the baptism site, contains Italian marble carried on the backs of pilgrims from Italy, over a thousand years ago. It was a magnificent trip, and held for me both historical and spiritual significance. The site is also where God parted the Jordan River, as Joshua led the Hebrews into the Promised Land, and where the waters parted for both Elijah and Elisha. It gave a once in a life time opportunity to explain the scriptures to the Service Members as we stood in the actual locations where the events took place.

Happy Easter everyone.

Chaplain (MAJ) Chance Mace300th Sustainment Brigade

APO, AE 09366

Hello NMMI.

Happy spring, April, and Easter.

March provided the wonderful opportunity to offer religious support to our troops as events led up to Palm Sunday, and Easter. Yet, for me, the highlight of March was to visit our soldiers in Jordan. I visited four of our military locations there, and was blessed to lead a group of soldiers to the historical baptism site of Jesus, the Jordan River, Elijah’s hill (where he ascended into heaven on a chariot of fire), John the Baptist cave (where he lived in the desert prior to baptizing Jesus), and the Dead Sea.

Many of the biblical sites lie east of the Jordan River (in the present day country of Jordan). The area is open to tourism, but as you can imagine, most tourists go to the Israeli side, and few venture across the river. The

Soldiers from the 300th Sustainment Brigade pose, following a tour of thebaptism site of Jesus. Led by Chaplain (MAJ) Chance Mace

From Chaplain Mace

GreetinGs From Kuwait

habit of working out every day by myself to improve faster.”

However, living far away from home at such a young age is something difficult to handle, especially when you have to handle an intensive training program on top of a full class schedule. “I had problems during my time travelling that made me drop out of high school. However, I took online classes and earned my high school degree last summer.”

Junior had a breakout year in 2018. He integrated France’s national team and discovered a new type of practice. More organized and intensive than anything he has experienced before, Aho describes these camps as “A huge breath” away from his permanent grind in the unprofessional environment of French football teams. A title of European champion and a few highlights videos later, he is discovered by the former NFL player Bjoern Werner. The German defensive end now has his own academy and helps young European prospects to cross the ocean and showcase their talents in America. This connection with Werner will help Junior receiving a scholarship offer from the NMMI Broncos for the 2019 spring term.

He is coming in with a lot of ambition, both on and off the field: “I want to improve on my English to be able to be perform on the field and in the classrooms, help the team win and graduate so I can be eligible to join a Division 1 program and hopefully accomplish my dream of playing in the NFL

His journey is impressive, but don’t worry, he remains human! When he is asked how he feels about the military exigencies of NMMI, he can’t retain a laugh “Well, it was a shock at first, it is way different than anything I’ve known before. Formations, drills, parades… That’s a lot to handle!” Somewhat, certain questions have universal answers!

On January 7th, 60 RATs checked in to become cadets of the 125 years legacy of the Institute. Among them, Bronco football recruit Junior Aho stands out: taller, bigger, and with an exotic accent from south of France.

The journey of an American football player is quite linear. Star of his middle school. Star of his high school. The athlete is in the best environment possible to successfully become a collegiate athlete.

Junior had to follow a more complex path.

The native of Nice - a city located in the heart of the French Riviera - had to leave his family to transform his passion for football from a simple hobby to a potential high-level career. He was only 15 when he moved to Montpellier then to Marseille to pursue his dreams. “Football is less developed in France. We only practice twice a week and the coaching methods are not optimum. I therefore had to travel to find better teams. I also took the

a FLavor oF the French riviera in the nmmi 2019 rat cLaSS

By Cadet Cyriaque Foucart

Abdel Aho in 2018 with his national team. Picture credit: Thomas Depaepe


PAGE 10 MAY 2019

AviAtion Club Goes to HAFbBy Cadet Eric Fielenbach

On Thursday, April 25, the Aviation Club went on a field trip to the White Sands Missile Range (WSMR) and Holloman Air Force Base. We were joined by our club sponsor Captain Stone, as well as the Eastern New Mexico University Roswell flight instructors Mike Lanfor and Jenna Secrist.

We first arrived at WSMR where we went on a tour of the world’s most intact V-2 rocket. As a part of the tour, the museum’s curator provided an interesting presentation of the history of the V-2 rocket, including the high human cost and its role in the beginnings of the missile program in the United States. We then explored the WSMR museum learning about the history of the Army in the region, and the development of other rocket programs in the past and present. We then travelled from WSMR to Holloman AFB and were able to look inside a couple of Black Hawk

helicopters and a remotely controlled F-16 aircraft. The F-16 aircraft are used for target practice. Each static display also included a question and answer session with the lead pilot of each aircraft. After lunch, we were provided with a brief synopsis about the remote pilot aircraft (RPA) and training the U.S. Air Force uses. After the presentation, we were permitted to practice with the RPA simulator, conducting practice strikes on simulated targets. Next was a brief stop at the air park, which displays jets used in the past by the U.S. Air Force.

All in all, the trip was successful and provided many aspects of aviation as we know it today. The Aviation Club would like to thank Lieutenant Colonel Graff for setting up this field trip, our sponsor Captain Stone for driving us there and back, and Mike Lanfor and Jenna Secrist for accompanying us on our trip.

Cadets sit inside a Blackhawk helicopter. From left to right: Cadet Ochieng, Devlin, Fielenbach, Munn, and Maxwell.

Cadet Fielenbach stands next to a German jet fighter, similar to the ones used while German pilots trained at Holloman AFB.

By Cadet Alejandro Rojas

I’ve been at NMMI since I was a sophomore in high school, and I am currently a freshman in college. I always knew that here at the institute I had the opportunity to work in different places, such as the ropes course, the admissions office, or being a life guard at the pool in the gym. I also knew that I could get my first work experience and make some money for my personal expenses throughout my time here.

My third year here, when I was a senior, I decided to apply for a job at the admissions office. I was hired and started working right away. This was one of the best decisions I made during my time at NMMI, and I wish I would’ve done it sooner. I have the opportunity to go into the admissions office during my free periods and do several things in the office. I help the 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 interested in attending the school. We also give tours to families who come to see the campus throughout the school year, so they can hear from

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 me the chance to help my parents back home by letting them save some money, since I don’t always have to ask them for money, aside from the tuition. Like I mentioned, my only regret is not doing it sooner.

I am very grateful towards this school and the people in the admissions office for the opportunity to gain some work experience before and during college, as well as a monthly source of income. This has helped me out quite a bit since I have enough money to go out in Roswell with my friends to enjoy some nice food, as well as to go on road trips on the weekends to visit friends in other places in New Mexico, Arizona, and Texas.

Cadet Rojas poses with the Assistant Director of Admissions.

Does this look familiar? Be the first cadet to identify where on campus this photos was taken and get a prize. Visit the Admissions Office and ask for Rodney if you know the answer.

GaininG Work ExpEriEncE at nMMi


PAGE 11MAY 2019

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 Plan (CIP) Briefing, the Service Learning Briefing, Cadet Portfolio and oral exam, Unit Report, Platoon Drill, In-ranks inspection, Color Guard evaluation, and JROTC instructor portfolio and curriculum evaluation. Below is the various inspections areas and scores.

ACCREDITATION ACTIVITYBattalion Staff Continuous Improvement Briefing & Interview

POINTS AWARDEDMINIMUM POINTSMAXIMUM POINTS

Service Learning Briefing

Cadet Portfolio & Interview

Unit Report

Platoon Drill & In-Ranks Inspection

Color Guard

Cadets’ Points AwardedInstructor Portfolio & Interview (LTC O’Neil)

Instructor Portfolio & Interview (CSM Fabec)

Instructors’ Points Award

35 25 33.5

35 25 35

20 14 20

20 14 20

15 10 15

15 10 14

30 21 30

30 21 30

60Mustang Battalion Staff members presented and defended the Continuous Improvement Plan. This year’s subject was the “State of Drill and Ceremonies” within the Mustang JROTC Battalion. Commander C/LTC Gavin Yates; Executive Officer C/MAJ Casey Day; CSM C/CSM Anthony Klinekole; S-1 C/CPT Tristan Edwards; S-2 C/CPT Ryan Cuellar; S-3 C/MAJ Daniel Dawdy; S-4 C/CPT Elden Maxey; S-5 C/CPT Ximena Flores

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

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!

137.5


PAGE 12 MAY 2019

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

• 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)

Over 10 Different Meal Choices for $6.99!

2801 N. Main575-622-1349

drive-thru deli

Cadets meet WWII Medal of Honor RecipientBy Cadet Mark Shover

NMMI Cadets meet last living WWII Medal of Honor Recipient, Wood Williams.

On April 25th, 2019, A few cadets had the opportunity to go to Odessa, Texas to meet the last Medal of Honor Recipient who fought in World War II; in the United States Marine Corps. The event was genuinely honorable; the cadets enjoyed hearing Woody Williams talk about aiding gold star

families. The event also included Purple Heart recipients. The event left a rememberable impression on the cadets and motivated the cadets to pursue their dreams and serve their country. The medal of honor recipient was very humble and cared a lot about our countries lost heroes. The event was to raise

money for a memorial in Virginia, to commemorate all the fallen soldiers’ mothers. Woody Williams emphasized that the mothers are indeed the real heroes for creating a human that has the heart and will to protect our nation. The Cadets who went on this remarkable trip had a few words to say:

Cadet Greiner (Troop: HQ) – “It was a privilege to attend the event. Being from Odessa, I was Familiar with several people in attendance. It was great to speak with my congressman, liaison officer, and Mr. Williams. His story and love of our country further inspires me to live a life bigger than myself.”

Cadet Coronal (Troop: Delta) – “The experience and the ceremony will stay in my mind for ages.”

Cadet Fink (Troop: HQ) – “Meeting Woody Williams was an honor and is an experience that will stay with me into the future.”

Cadet Holler (Troop: India) – “Having the opportunity to meet Woody Williams is something that I will remember forever. He is honestly a living legend and I really appreciate hearing his words of wisdom.”

Cadet Shover (Troop: Charlie) – “Woody Williams is a living piece of history that carries the backbone of our nation. His stories are truly inspiring, his heart is full of wisdom, and most importantly, his service to his nation is honorable. Williams has left an impression in my heart to find a way to save the lives of men and woman who are fighting so bravely to keep our loved ones safe.

Sgt. Christoper Sanders was born April 30th 1985 and graduated high school here at NMMI in 2004.

At the age of nine years old Chris wanted to be a cadet at NMMI. Although he had planned to attend college and become a military officer, the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon persuaded him to join the miltary as soon as he could.

Sgt. Christopher Sanders loved life and most of all, his family as he was a dedicated father, husband and service man.

----from SGT Sander Bridge, pg.2 Unfortunately January 9th 2008 Sgt. Christopher Sanders was killed in Sinsil, Iraq along with five other soldiers and their interpreter. They will be forever known as the “Sinsil 7”.

Be it resolved by the New Mexico State Transportation Commission, that it honor the memory of St. Christopher Sanders for his willingness to serve his country and lay down his life and extends condolences to his family and friends.

We bid the family of SGT Sanders rest and peace and welcome SGT Sanders in this memorial dedication, welcome home to the Old Post.


PAGE 13MAY 2019

NMMI SportsNMMI 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.

A Bronco basketball player who saw no time on the floor during games this season has still signed to go on to the next level.

Kevin Doty, a freshman from Long Island, N.Y., came to NMMI as a sponsored Academy Prep student. He hoped to play basketball while studying engineering at the Merchant Marine Academy, so he asked head coach Sean Schooley if he could try and be a walk-on for the Bronco basketball team. After seeing the 6’7 forward work out with the team, he immediately said yes.

“Even by just being a practice player, Kevin has made us a better team,” said Schooley. “He is always working and always trying to improve and he’s a great teammate. We always considered him part of the team and appreciate what he did for us.”

Doty said that his time on the practice floor has definitely prepared him to play for the Mariners.

“I think I learned a lot of what it’s going to take to be a college athlete and play at the college level against the tough competition that I will be facing,” he

said. “So I hope to kind of excel at my school.”

Doty will join the DIII Skyline Conference school as a sophomore forward, and Schooley said he’ll be an asset to the team.

“His strength is his athletic ability and he works extremely hard,” the coach said. “He’s going to bring an element to the team next year that he’s going to play for that’s really going to help. He’s hard working. He’s hard nosed. He’ll do whatever’s asked, and he did that all year long.”

The New York native learned of NMMI through former Bronco James Walsh, and came to the Institute to improve his grades. He did that with a vengeance, earning a perfect 4.0 in the classroom as well as finishing his time in the Corps of Cadets as a staff sergeant.

He said his time in Roswell has prepared him for the MMA life.

“I definitely learned what it takes to succeed at a school like the Merchant Marine Academy, since NMMI is very

Doty Engineers His Way to Play for MarinersNMMI Sports Press

Kevin Doty (center) signs his letter of intent to play basketball for the Merchant Marine Academy next season, with Bronco basketball assistant coach Will Joyce (left) and head coach Sean Schooley (right).

SiSneroS ready to run Like a Greyhound

Kalya Sisneros gets ready to sign her letter of intent to run cross country for Eastern New Mexico University next season. She is pictures here seated with her father Manuel and mother Angie, along with friends, family and former coaches in the background.

Lady Bronco and former Rocket runner Kayla Sisneros will continue to grace the roads and tracks with her speed next fall when she heads to NCAA Division II Eastern New Mexico University.

The former Goddard track and cross country and NMMI JC runner signed with a school she feels is perfect for her needs.

“They have a very good program,” Sisneros said. “They’re one of the best teams in the Lone Star Conference. It’s very competitive and what I’m looking for.”

The Lady Greyhounds finished third in cross country in the conference last fall, behind only Midwestern State University and Tarleton University, with their top runner, graduating senior Mercy Rotich, taking the individual title. The ladies then finished 17th in the NCAA DII South Central Region championships, with Rotich earning a berth to the national championships.

Sisneros will be joining a fairly young team as a junior, and said another

reason for the nearby choice is head coach Jeff Kavalunas, who, she said, brings a lot of experience with him.

After competing for Goddard at state for four years — where her best finish was 51st in 23:17.8 as a senior — she continued to improve her times at NMMI and finished 112th at the NJCAA nationals last November, with a time of 22:07.9.

And getting better every time she runs is something she thinks is her best quality.

“I like being competitive,” she said. “I like going and doing a race and knowing that I gave it my best every time I was out there.”

Her parents agree with that assessment.

“We only expect the best out of Kayla, because that’s all she has ever done, is given her best,” said mom Angie Sisneros. “She’s always been focused, always been driven, and always manages to succeed.”

NMMI Sports Press

----See Cadet Doty pg.15 ----See Cadet Sisneros pg.15


PAGE 14 MAY 2019

Serving Roswell and NMMI for 42 years

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575-622-4751

Buy your coin at M&M Coin Company.

Need a silver dollar for your commissioning Cadet?

Schendt is the First Bronco Named First Team all-AmericanNMMI Sports Press

For the first time in the program’s 18-year history, the New Mexico Military Institute Bronco volleyball team landed a player to the NJCAA’s vaunted First Team All-American list, with Peyton Schendt selected as an outside hitter. She was one of only four freshmen in the nation to earn the top-team award.

It’s the second-straight year that NMMI has garnered All-American honors under head coach Shelby Forchtner: Karen Rivera-Herrera and Hannah Davis both were named All-American outside hitters in 2017, with Rivera-Herrera tagged for second team honors and Davis as an Honorable Mention.

“It was a really big surprise,” she said. “I woke up to a text from coach Shelby. She called me and we were freaking out. I’m super honored and excited, as is my whole family. It’s just a really good feeling.”

Forchtner, who surpassed 300 wins this season during her 13th year at the helm of NMMI’s juco volleyball program, said the honor was well deserved.

“Peyton’s just a very well-rounded athlete,” the coach said. “She does everything well. She’s a huge offensive threat. She was in our serve-receive pattern. She played defense and middle-back and swung out of the back row sometimes just as much as she did the front. She’s a great little server. She could hit spots. She’s just the total package. This is very much well deserved because she’s a very well-rounded kid.”

Schendt wasn’t as certain of her “all around” abilities as was her coach. “My front row is definitely better than my back row,” she laughed. “My back row needs some work still, but I think I was a big offensive threat for the team – with hitting and getting some kills.”

But her stats show she truly earned the honor.

She played in all 38 games for the Broncos this season, sitting out only five sets. She finished seventh in the nation in kills with 491 (a 3.58 average per set) on 1,354 total attack attempts.

And while the kills column alone justifies Peyton’s All-American honors,

it is her ability to play in the backcourt that really makes her stand out and got her selected to the first team. Most big-hitters get subbed-out after their time on the front row ends, replaced by a defensive specialist. But Schendt was second in digs for the Broncos this season with 388, behind only libero Hula Crisostomo (who finished No. 7 in the nation in digs with 654).

Schendt was also a terror at the service line, dropping in 41 aces – good for 49th in the NJCAA and second on the Bronco squad – and was a capable blocker when called upon, with 48 total blocks.

But, even though she’s only a freshman, Schendt isn’t planning on being back at NMMI next season as a sophomore. She came to NMMI as an academy prep student, and is hoping to make it into West Point.

In fact, the choice to come to NMMI last season was a bit of a last minute decision. But despite the hurried process of attending NMMI, coach Forchtner said she fit right in at the military school.

“The whole beginning was really quick: she didn’t know a whole lot about NMMI but she has adjusted really well to this environment,” said Forchtner. “She’s doing really well in the Corps of Cadets, she’s handling her business academically, and she was great for us. She was by far one of the most competitive kids in our gym, so I

think moving on to the Division I level is going to be an easy transition for her.”

And Schendt agrees NMMI helped her in her future plans.

“Definitely coming here has helped me so much,” she said. “Everyone I’ve met. The opportunities I’ve had here. Shelby has been wonderful and has given me the opportunity to play at the next level as well.”

NMMI Athletic director Jose Barron was also happy for Schendt, coach Forchtner and Bronco volleyball program.

“We are very pleased to have Peyton Schendt selected for this ultimate honor by the NJCAA. To have somebody selected as a freshman is outstanding. It is a testament to her abilities and to the coaching and mentoring she has she received under coach Forchtner,” stated Barron.

Schendt is the sixth Bronco volleyball player selected as an All-American since the program’s start in 2001. Along with Herrera-Rivera and Davis (listed above), the other NMMI All-American are:

• 2014 – Mere Sera, Honorable Mention, middle blocker

• 2013 – Veronika Baric, Second Team, outside hitter

• 2009 – Delores Alaimaleata, Second Team, middle blocker


PAGE 15MAY 2019

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aPPLY TodaY!What are you Waiting for?

new mexico miLiTarY insTiTuTe

similar to it. And has a great coaching staff,” he said.

Doty calls the MMA “a very rigorous academic school. You have three years of schooling. You have to complete 180 engineering credits in three years due to your sea year, where you spend a whole year traveling the world and learning about the maritime industry.”

Schooley is confident he will do well at the military academy.

“I always told the kids to do better than their best,” echoed dad Manuel Sisneros. “And in each event, each competition, each race, she always tried. And I couldn’t be more proud of her.”

Both Goddard coach Vernon Dyer and NMMI coach Jan Olesinski think she has a strong future ahead of her in Portales.

“I think she’s an excellent student and excellent runner,” Dyer said. “I even picked her as a team captain for the girls, because she was always there and on time and ready to help in any way.”

“She is a great runner,” Olesinski agreed. “She’s a great example of a person who has a goal in life and dedication and understands how to get there by hard work. We saw that in high school, and after that she came (to the Broncos) and really improved and got better and better, not just because she came to the college, but because of her personality and her discipline and dedication. And, of course, she has vision and goals which

-from Cadet Doty, Page 13

-from Cadet Sisnero, Page 13

“I think if he just continues to work and relaxes; enjoys playing the game and probably doesn’t overthink it, I think he’s got a chance to be very successful,” he said. “But more important are his academics and how hard he works. I think he’s going to be really successful as an engineer and beyond. He was top-notch as a cadet; he’ll be top-notch at the academy; and he’s going to be a top-notch citizen.”

really carried her to the point where she is now.”

Sisneros will major in athletic training and kinesiology at ENMU, and had a chance to work with both John Carpenter and David Smith in the NMMI sports medicine and athletic training department.

Besides getting a jump on her future career skills, Sisneros said she “learned a lot about self-discipline and time management” while a Bronco, which will be a plus as a Greyhound.

“The key is motivating myself more and staying determined and having goals,” she said. “That’s what’s kept me going all of my time at NMMI.”

“What she learned here: the discipline; the dedication; the hard work will carry her in the new college and make her a better runner,” Olesinski said.

And, the well-spoken Sisneros said, she’s ready for the future,

“I’m excited to be a Greyhound next year.”


PAGE 16 MAY 2019

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.

Commandant Graff takes a photo with LTC Cunningham who retired after 11 years of service.

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 Egg Hunt organized by Cadet Yu.

Around Ol’ Post

Cadets check out the Air Methods helicopter. Air Methods is the medevac team that provides emergency transport for the Roswell area.

Cadets take a moment to unwind and have fun during the Shakespeare Festival.

honoring fallen - new mexico military institute

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