The MMA Eagle, March 2007 edition

The Volume 105, Number 6

Re-enactors group formed, p. 5.

Eagle

204 N. Grand Ave., Mexico, Mo. 65265

www.mma-cadet.org

Non-Profit Org. U. S. Postage Paid Mexico, Mo. Permit No. 10 Address Service Requested

Wednesday, March 14, 2007

Trio of cadets tapped for National Honor Society

From left, front row, Nevin Harralson of Evansville, Ind.; Jonathan Pang of St. Louis; and Young Hee Kim of Seoul, South Korea; were inducted into the MMA chapter of the National Honor Society on Feb. 11. Back row are faculty members on the selection committee: Capt. Will Walker, Lt. Col. Henry Matlosz, Capt. Syl Mansfield, Maj. Lawrence McClarey, Maj. Peggy Reynard, sponsor Maj. Michael Pemberton and Maj. Frank Giuseffi.

Col. Bailey dies at 91 in Oregon

Dean Joe D. Bailey, a 40-year member of the Missouri Military Academy faculty, died Col. Joe D. Feb. 8 in Bailey Bend, Ore., at age 91.

A graduate of Northeast Missouri State College and a protégé of legendary coach Don Faurot, he came to MMA in 1940 as a history teacher, varsity football and basketball coach.

See BAILEY on p. 2

Contents MMA musicians shine ..... 2 Pro FB alum visits .............. 2 Skype casting starts .......... 3 Cadet spotlight on Capt. Adrian Martinez .... 3 Ask a Cadet .................. 3 Bravo news .................. 4 MS awards presented ....... 4 Rail-splitters formed ....... 5

HS cagers win 10 ......... 6 Camargo goes to state ..... 6 Winter athletes feted ......6 Rifle to W. Regionals ........ 6 Poor earns Eagle ......... 7 Student and Athlete of the Month named ...... 7 400 attend ‘The Hobbit’ .... 8 Fourragere list given ..... 8

Three students from Missouri Military Academy were inducted into membership in the National Honor Society in a ceremony held at the Academy on Friday, Feb. 22.

Members were selected by a Faculty Council for meeting high standards of scholarship, service, leadership and character.

Students inducted were Nevin Harralson of Evansville, Ind., Young Hee Kim of Seoul, South Korea, and Jonathan Pang

of St. Louis, Mo. “National Honor Society members are chosen, and then expected to continue their exemplary contributions to the school and community,” said Maj. Michael Pemberton, chapter adviser.

The Missouri Military Academy Chapter of the National Honor Society has been active since 2005.

See HONOR on p. 2

Parents, alumni enjoy new MMA podcasts Missouri Military Academy unveiled another new piece of communications technology on Friday, Jan. 19, with the first Web cast, or podcast, of MMA news, sports and events.

The idea was a joint effort of Capt. Mark L. Elwood, director of information and publications, and Capt. Andrea Nunziante, director of technology.

“We had been discussing the idea as a replacement for and improvement on our previous radio programs for some time.

We consider it a very positive move. It allows parents and alumni around the world to hear what’s going on at the school from the voices of cadets,” said Capt. Elwood.

Journalism students have been the initial podcasters. The first three announcers included

junior Rocky Huppert opening with MMA upcoming events, followed by junior Henry Priester with news and senior A.J. Vassen wrapping up with sports.

Other cadet newscasters to date have been senior Travis Howard, sophomore Juan Zamora, and juniors Ethan Carter, Doug Dieckgraefe and Cory Laird.

“The response has been very positive, and we are getting a lot of hits on the podcast link,” said Capt. Nunziante.

“The podcasts are fabulous!” said Mrs. Eugenia Helverson, mother of eighth-grader Nicholas Helverson, in an e-mail to MMA President Col. Ronald Kelly. “The podcast is just another shining proof that you are on target!

See PODCASTS on p. 2

Cadet senior A.J. Vassen of Shiloh, Ill., and Director of Technology Capt. Andrea Nunziante work on recording a podcast in the technology office at Stribling Hall.

Cadet journalists are doing Web casts for the first time this spring.

Cadets tour Emerson, Boeing Missouri Military Academy international business and business law classes took an informative field trip to the Emerson Motors headquarters in St. Louis on Feb. 8.

Mr. Kei Pang, father of MMA junior Jonathan Pang, and his administrative assistant arranged the visit. Cadets were in classes from 9 a.m. until noon, gaining an overview of an international business, its organization, profit/ loss charts, etc.; business ethics with emphasis on integrity within businesses and standing firm on principles; business law, emphaSee EMERSON on p. 2

Missouri Miiltary Academy cadets took classes in the Emerson Technology Center in St. Louis on Feb. 7. The field trip was arranged by Mr. Kei Pang, father of cadet Jonathan Pang.

Grandparents’ Weekend set for April 7-8

Grandparents’ Weekend is scheduled Saturday and Sunday, April 7-8, on the Missouri Military Academy campus.

Activities begin with Army Day on Saturday at 8 a.m.

Cadets will be engaging in various military activities, including a road march, obstacle course, rappelling and rope bridge.

At 10:30 a.m. there will be a presentation by Middle School talent show winners in the Middle School Library.

See GRANDPARENTS on p. 8

Now enrolling for the 2007 fall semester and summer camps.

March 1-4 pages.indd 1

3/13/2007 4:39:25 PM

MMA Eagle

2

Former cadet now a pro football player

Matt Sinclair, who finished eighth grade at Missouri Military Academy in 1997, paid a visit to the Academy on Feb. 26, and met Capt. Brian Maher, left, Colonels athletics director and head football coach. Sinclair (6-3, 244) is a University of Illinois graduate from St. Louis, Mo., and a linebacker for the Frankfurt Galaxy of the European Football League. He was assigned to the EFL by the Miami Dolphins in 2006, and was in the Baltimore Ravens’ camp in 2005. Sinclair met and spoke with cadets, coaches and faculty members. Capt. Maher is a semi-pro football linebacker.

The

Eagle Established in 1900, the Missouri Military Academy Eagle is the nation’s longestrunning student newspaper.

Yearly subscriptions are $5.

Reporters/Photographers

MS Recruit Elias Akhi Capt. Israel Avelar Pvt. Taylor Barton MS Recruit Joseph Bulger Recruit Ethan Carter Capt. Kuan Yu Cheng Pvt. Doug Dieckgraefe MS Pvt. 1st Class Hunter Dock Recruit Dan Filla Master Sgt. Jose Flores Staff Sgt. Nevin Harralson MS Pvt. Nicholas Helverson Master Sgt. Travis Howard Lance Cpl. Rocky Huppert Pvt. Cory Laird MS Pvt. Tyler McDaniel Cpl. Cameron Meeks-Stratton Sgt. Thomas Mennemeyer Lance Cpl. Angel Olea Pvt. Henry Priester MS Sgt. Sebastian Raiff MS Pvt. 2nd Class Jose Rodriguez MS R1 Luis Rodriguez Cpl. A.J. Vassen MS Pvt. George Wiese Pvt. 1st Class Juan Zamora

s

Director of Publications Capt. Mark L. Elwood

Middle School instructor Capt. Carl Crawford

Honor, continued from p. 1

Other current member cadets are seniors Kuan Yu Cheng, Nick Fajen, Woo Jai Jang, Giuseppe Poletti, and juniors Javier Guevara and Adam White.

forting to hear their voices so strong and clearly!”

To listen to the podcasts,

Emerson, continued from p. 1

sizing intellectual property; and international marketing, emphasizing competition and business relationships in the global community.

The cadets also received a tour of Emerson’s Motor Technology Center.

In each session, the cadets were given an opportunity to ask questions.

“A few cadets asked particu-

larly insightful questions,” said MMA business teacher Maj. Peggy Reynard. “Jon Pang, Fernando Silva and Nick Wegman asked particularly good questions.

She said Wegman quoted “The Art of War” by Sun Tzu and combined knowledge from history, economics, current events, and business with his questions.

“The cadets represented us well

Col. Bailey, continued from p. 1

He later became director of athletics, dean of the faculty, and was director of the Mexico recreation program.

Col. Bailey retired from MMA after the 1979-80 school year.

He served in the United States Navy during World War II, and later with the

Musicians ring true at Central Methodist FAYETTE -- Missouri Military Academy cadets turned in strong performances at the Central Methodist University Music Festival on March 2 in Fayette.

Eleven cadet entries received superior ratings, including the Cadet Chorus, which received a first division rating from all three judges.

“The cadets worked hard and did an excellent job,” said vocal music instructor Capt. Michael Shoemaker.

Individuals earning superior ratings were Miguel Guerra, vocal solo; David Joung, piano solo; Henry Priester, alto saxophone solo; Jason Peters, baritone saxophone solo; and Travis Mattoon, euphonium solo.

The alto sax trio of Guerra, Priester and Glen Weaver received a “1,” as did the flute and baritone

The National Honor Society ranks as one of the oldest and most prestigious national organizations for high school students.

Chapters exist in more than 60 percent of the

Podcasts, continued from p. 1

“Thank you for letting parents hear a little piece of their sons from afar. It is very com-

Wednesday, March 14, 2007

sax duet of Peters and James Rummenie.

Cole Hunter, Travis Mattoon, Reuben Senatore and Chris Taylor received a superior for their low brass quartet, and the percussion ensemble of Bryan Ashley, Jake Goro, Chris Jones, David Joung, Jonathan Pang, Jackson Pavelka and Jonathan Ting was also judged superior.

Second division excellent ratings were earned by James Poettker, vocal solo; Logan Branch, vocal solo; Young Hee Kim, violin solo; Won Seok Oh, piano solo; Alex Holland, piano solo; Huan Sheng Chen, trombone solo; Hugh Carnahan and Dylan Waschkowski, trumpet duet.

“I am very proud of how our boys performed. They did very well,” said Capt. Shoemaker..

nation’s high schools since 1921.

The sponsoring organization is the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP).

which are updated on Fridays, go to the MMA Web site - http://www.mma-cadet.org

-- and click on the menu link called “MMA This Week: Podcast Radio.”

as a school. The presenters were impressed with the depth of knowledge the cadets showed from the questions, which is a credit to many academic departments,” said Maj. Reynard.

In the afternoon, the group toured the aviation museum at Boeing Corporation.

“Jake Miller was impressive there with his knowledge of the history of flight,” said Maj. Rey-

nard. “Tours are not given at this time of year, except in special cases. Boeing Corporation made the tour possible as a favor to Emerson Motors.

Emerson Motors provided all the planning for the classes, along with breakfast and lunch .

“Mr. Pang asked that we make this visit an annual event,” said Maj. Reynard.

Department of Defense as a recreational specialist in Germany.

During the Academy’s Centennial year, 1988-89, Col. Bailey was cited by MMA with a Distinguished Service Award.

Survivors include son Joe Bailey Jr. of Portland, Ore.; and two daughters, Mrs.

Betsy Sparks of Potomac, Md., and Ms. Carol Black of Leaburg, Ore. He was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara.

The family suggests memorials to the Missouri Military Academy Development Fund.

Circulation assistant Ms. Melissa Wilson

Faculty, other photographers Maj. Willis Kleinsorge Steve Biggers of Biggers Studios Col. Ronald Kelly ••• 204 N. Grand Ave. Mexico, Mo. 65265 (573) 581-1776, ext. 223 Contact: Capt. Mark L. Elwood at melw@mma.mexico.mo.us

March 1-4 pages.indd 2

3/13/2007 4:40:12 PM

MMA Eagle

Wednesday, March 14, 2007

Skype casting a new MS technology Another technological improvement has cadets at Missouri Military Academy Middle School excited, according to Principal Lt. Col. Jonathan P. Eastman.

“We started Skype casting on one computer in the Bravo Barracks academic hall on Feb. 27, and the cadets really seem to be enjoying it,” said Lt. Col. Eastman. “We have expanded to five computers with the program, video and audio hardware, and it is catching on.”

Skype casting is computer-enabled communication between two parties at separate, properly equipped computers.

Cadet Juan Pablo Drexel, an eighth-grader from McAllen, Texas, was the first to use the program, calling his father. He has become a regular “skyper.”

“Juan Pablo’s father took us on a tour of his factory by way of his laptop. It was very interesting,” said Lt. Col. Eastman.

Cadets with acceptable grades may skype Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8 a.m., Wednesdays after drill and Saturdays after dinner. They must check out equipment from the supervisor on duty and declare whom they are calling.

Lt. Col. Eastman came up with the idea to install the system at MMA after successfully skyping with his daughter in Italy. All Middle School parents have been e-mailed about the new technology’s availabil-

3

Cadet Spotlight

Capt. Adrian Martinez

Delta Company Commander

By Cpl. A.J. Vassen

Eighth-grade cadet Juan Pablo Drexel of McAllen, Texas, was the first to use the new MMA Middle School skype casting technology. Here he speaks to his father, Eduardo, over the computer.

ity, he said.

“Reaction has been very positive to date, and we will continue to encourage its use,” said Lt. Col. Eastman, adding that it was an exciting step up from e-mailing, which was previously allowed in those time slots and continues to be offered.

“We are taking more advantage of the state-of-the-art com-

puters in the academic hall,” said Lt. Col. Eastman. “We also have a color scanner and a video camera with a built-in hard drive as other recent technological enhancements to the Middle School’s academic and cadet-life programs.

“The purchases were made possible through a donation by alumnus Richard White, class of 1947.”

Cadet Capt. Adrian Martinez of Ciudad Victoria, Tamaulipas, Mexico, finds motivation through a desire to succeed in life, both now and after graduating from Missouri Military Academy in May. “I have been very personally motivated since I came to MMA,” the Delta Company commander said. “I entered the school with an attitude to win.”

Martinez said that goal is across all parts of his life, but is focused now at MMA. “Winning is not only about company competition. It is about helping the individual cadets,” he said.

“If I can help one cadet, that is a victory in my eyes.”

He said he is also a strong believer that “positive motivation creates positive results.”

Martinez’ most proud moments at MMA included “Being designated Delta Company commander and winning the district championship for soccer this year.”

For fun, Martinez said he likes to “hang out with friends and listen to music.”

After MMA, Martinez wants to “attend an architectural school in the United States.”

What do you plan to do this summer after graduation from MMA, and in the fall?

Senior Nick Fajen, Lufkin, Texas:

March 1-4 pages.indd 3

“I plan to work two jobs this summer to earn some money. In the fall I plan to go to Rollins College, a strong academics school in Florida.”

Senior Samuel Kovar, Jefferson City, Mo.: “Over the summer I am going to work on road construction to make some money. I’m planning to attend college at either Missouri Western or Central Missouri State..”

Senior Travis Howard, Wichita, Kan.: “I’m going on a road trip with my dad on Route 66 and work on my car. I plan to study automobile restoration at McPherson College.”

Delta Company Commander Capt. Adrian Martinez of Ciudad Victoria, Tamaulipas, Mexico, center, leads his company onto Colonels Field for a review.

3/13/2007 4:40:50 PM

B

4

Wednesday, March 14, 2007

Bravo Bits

The following promotions were made Feb. 28 in Missouri Military Academy Middle School, according to Maj. Mark Vaughan, commandant: Master sergeant – Leonardo Lichtinger.

Sergeant first class – Nicholas Helverson, Nam Soo Kim and Alfredo Stewart.

Staff sergeant – Enrique Perez and Jose Perez.

Sergeant – Matthew EerNisse and Sebastian Raiff.

Corporal first class – Jeong Yong Choi and Juan Pablo Drexel.

Corporal – Alex Arias and Juan Gonzalez-Guerra.

Private first class – Hyuk Woo Choi, Hunter Dock, Juan Garza, Alex Husemann, Kyung Pyo Kim and George Wiese.

Private – Andy Brown, Philip Han, Tyler McDaniel, Manuel Rangel and Luke Westrich.

Private second class – Matthew Doughty, You Sung Han, Esteban Razon. Jose Rodriguez, Jesus Rodriguez and Jordan Uthe. *** The MMA Middle School math bee over several days throughout February offered competition through a math game presented on smart boards using computer software set up in a “Jeopardy” format. Cadets had 15 seconds to answer questions and were divided by advisory groups.

Winners of the event were Maj. Willis Kleinsorge’s advisory, first; Capt. Aaron Bell’s advisory, second; and Lt. Col. Jonathan P. Eastman’s advisory, third. *** The following 10 cadets were awarded the Barracks Bar in February: Arias, Hyuk Woo Choi, Jeong Yong Choi, Brent Creagh, Juan Pablo Drexel, EerNisse, Guerra, You Sung Han, Kyung Pyo Kim and Jose Perez. *** The following cadets were awarded the Military Bar in February: Jeong Yong Choi, Juan Pablo Drexel. EerNisse, You Sung Han, Helverson, Lichtinger, Hugh McLennan, Enrique Perez, Jose Perez and Stewart. *** Scoutmaster Maj. Joseph Ableman of MMA Troop 39 announced that Middle School Cadets McDaniel and Andy Brown have earned their Second Class Scout badge.

The following cadets earned their Tenderfoot award: Arias, Juan Pablo Drexel, Eernisse, Jose Perez, George Perez, Lichtinger, Gamboa, Juan Garza, Kyung Pyo Kim, Mclennan, Razon, Jose Rodriguez and Stewert.

There are 36 cadets from the Middle School active in the Troop. The pins were awarded by assistant Scoutmaster Capt. Carl Crawford. at the Middle School Awards Banquet on Feb. 28 in the MMA Dining Hall. *** According to Middle School Principal Lt. Col. Jonathan P. Eastman, the following academic awards were announced Feb. 23: Honor roll – Doughty, Nam Soo Kim, You Sung Han, Husemann, Jared Polito and Stewart.

Honorable Mention – Lichtinger, Elias Akhi, Kyung Pyo Kim and Clay Samuelson.

Merit Roll – Joseph Bulger, Hyuk Woo Choi, Stephen Myers, Enrique Perez, Juan Pablo Drexel, Helverson, Jesus Rodriguez and Wiese. *** The following cadets earned the Academic Effort Bar, it was announced by Lt. Col. Eastman on Feb. 23: You Sung Han, Husemann and Samuelson. *** Supervisor Staff Sgt. Robert Munson announced that the Brigadier Bar for outstanding performance Feb. 6 at Mexico High School was awarded to Lichtinger, EerNisse, You Sung Han, Husemann, Kyung Pyo Kim, McLennan, Enrique Perez, Jose Perez, Jesus Rodriguez, Uthe and Wiese. It was the second Brigadier Bar for Lichtinger, the cadet commander. *** Middle School cadets earning the Academic Fourragere for February were Doughty, Nam Soo Kim, You Sung Han, Husemann, Polito and Stewart.

March 1-4 pages.indd 4

MS cadets receive awards at banquet The Middle School Second Trimester Awards Banquet was held Feb. 28 in the MMA Dining Hall.

Athletic awards were presented first by coaches. Wresting awards were presented by Capt. Dave Bogdon and Capt. Keith Morgan to cadets Alex Arias, Brent Creagh, Juan Pablo Drexel, Javier Gamboa, Juan Garza, Tyler McDaniel, Manuel Rangel, Esteban Razon and Jordan Uthe. The Intramural “B” letter went to Leonardo Lichtinger, Hugh McLennan, Jose Perez, Sebastian Raiff, Luis Rodriquez and George Wiese. The letter and medal went to Alfredo Stewart.

Basketball certificates were presented by Maj. Willis Kleinsorge and Capt. Aaron Bell to Zach Barton, Stephen Myers, Dillon Phillips, Jeffery Rider, Jesus Rodriguez and Jose Rodriguez.

“B” intramural letters were earned

by Elias Akhi, Matthew EerNisse and Philip Han. Letters and medals were presented to Alex Dykes, Nam Soo Kim and Jared Polito.

The Sportsmanship Ribbon was presented to Leonardo Lichtinger by Maj. Judy Twells, the Middle School athletics director Swimming certificates were presented by Capt. Carl Crawford to cadets Joey Bulger, Hyuk Woo Choi, Jeong Yong Choi, Matthew Doughty, You Sung Han and Kevin Mansell. Intramural letters were awarded to Nick Helverson and Kyung Pyo Kim. Maj. Twells awarded certificates for horseback riding to Hunter Dock and John Jewell, and re-qualifier recognition for the Athletics Honor Medal to Lichtinger.

Capt. Crawford recognized Middle School cadet members of Boy Scout Troop 39 who completed requirements for Second Class Scout to Andy Brown, McDaniel and Raiff.

Tenderfoot Awards recipients were also recognized, including

Maj. Judy Twells, Missouri Military Academy Middle School athletics director, presents eighth-grade cadet Leonardo Lichtinger of Huixquilucan, Mexico, with the Good Sportsmanship Ribbon and certificate at the trimester wards banquet held Feb. 28 in the MMA Dining Hall.

Arias, Drexel, EerNisse, Gamboa, Garza, Kyung Pyo Kim, Lichtinger, McLennan, Jose Perez, Razon, Jose Rodriquez, Jesus Rodriguez, Stewart and Wiese.

Barracks awards were presented by Maj. Mark Vaughan and Maj. Bernard Strunk to Arias, Jeong Yong Choi, EerNisse, Guerra and You Sung Han. New Military qualifiers were Jeong Yong Choi, Drexel, Lichtinger, Enrique Perez and Stewart.

Maroon Triangle awards were presented to new qualifiers Hyuck Woo Choi, Brent Creagh, Garza, You Sung Han, Jewell, Kyung Pyo Kim, McDaniel, Razon and Uthe.

Reading awards were presented by Maj. Twells to Outstanding Readers Society new qualifiers

Akhi and Brown. Exemplary Readers Society new qualifiers were Drexel, Philip Han and McDaniel.

Lt. Col. Eastman recognized Outstanding Readers Society new qualifiers Bulger, Jewell, Phillips and Polito. Exemplary Readers Society new qualifier was Jesus Rodriguez.

National Rifle Association Awards were presented by Maj. Strunk to Marksmen Akhi, Drexel, Dykes, Guerra, Kevin Lee, Mansell, Myers, Jose Perez, Polito and Clay Samuelson; Marksmen First Class Philip Han, Nam Soo Kim, Rangel, Razon and Luke Westrich; and Sharpshooters Bulger, Hyuck Woo Choi, Husemann, Lichtinger and Enrique Perez.

Your Favorite Study Break! ®2003 McDonald’s Corporartion.

News briefs from the MMA Middle School ...

Proud to support the Colonels.

Mexico

H

3/13/2007 4:41:23 PM

MMA Eagle

Wednesday, Monday 14, 2007

5

Re-enactors group formed by Capt. Shoemaker, cadets

Sophomore Nathan Brand, left, of Geneva, Ill., and junior Hugh Carnahan of Nixa, Mo., practice on the back campus of MMA for for future World War II reenactments in which they hope to participate. (Photo by Lance Cpl. Rocky Huppert)

High School cadets gain promotions

The MMA High School Promotions Board announced the following cadet promotions on Feb. 28, according to Lt. Col. James E. Medley, commandant: Major – Giuseppe Poletti.

Captain – Kuan Yu Cheng, Israel Avelar, Adrian Martinez.

First lieutenant – Woo Jai Jang.

Corporal – Alex Flynn, Angel Olea, Nick Poor.

Lance corporal – David Joung, Si Chan Law, Luis Marcano, Shi Xuan Meng, Mauricio Pacheco, Jonathan Pang, James Poettker, Jose Salinas, Fernando Silva, Geoff Spaulding, Zeb Wickman.

Private first class – Jorge Cabello, Garrett Gregory, Jong Hwi Park.

Private – Drew Benoit, Doug Dieckgraefe, Dan Filla, George Jordan, Brad Lutat, Ryan Miranda, Matthew Mitchell, Jonathan Ting, Michael Wang, Yang Wang, Robert Williams.

A halftrack rumbled through the mud past an 88mm howitzer tube as platoons of soldiers marched toward an unseen destination. Marching the other way, a heavily guarded squad of Nazi Germans headed for the rear and an internment camp. Orders were shouted, and a convoy of vehicles rumbled past. It seemed like a scene straight out of World War II Nazi Germany, but looks can be deceiving.

It was, in fact, the set of the movie “Rhineland,” shot in December 2006. A few of the soldiers were a bit young for war. They were Missouri Military Academy cadets Alex Flynn and Dani Tibi.

A living history reenactment group called the 84th Railsplitters offered to include a group of cadets in its historical reenactments. Cadets, led by Capt. Michael Shoemaker, jumped at the chance to honor the sacrifices of the Golden Gen-

eration, he said.

Since then, they have eagerly collected military gear from the era as costumes and props.

Authentic gear is extremely costly, and cadet members are paying out of their own pockets to belong, said Capt. Shoemaker.

The 84th Railsplitters group was selected because it was an average infantry unit with average men who performed above and beyond the call, said Capt. Shoemaker. First activated, but then disbanded during World War I, the 84th was activated for the second time on Oct. 15, 1942.

Deployed in 1944, the men landed at Omaha Beach and made their way to Prummern on the Siegfried Line for their first battle. They were also one of the two units that sealed The Bulge and trapped the Nazis during the Battle of the Bulge.

MMA spelling bee champions

In left photo, freshman Ty Armer of Delta Company and Austin, Texas, left, was the last man standing to lead Delta to the company championship of the MMA High School Spelling Bee on Feb. 22 in Centennial Gymtorium, edging junior Rocky Huppert of Hiawatha, Kan. Director of Studies Maj. Frank Giuseffi presents the company championship trophy to Armer as Company Commander Adrian Hernandez, right, of Ciudad Victoria, Tamaulipas, Mexico, looks on. Bravo Company also had its spelling bee on Thursday, Feb. 22. The Middle School’s top speller was cadet Sebastian Raiff, right, of Pineville, Mo. He edged runner-up Nam Soo Kim of Seoul, South Korea. The bee was officiated by Middle School English teacher Capt. Carl Crawford, who is congratulating Raiff in the photo at right.

‘Taps’ ads are now available

Advertising space in the 2007 “Taps” yearbook is now available for purchase by parents, alumni, businesses and friends of Missouri Military Academy. The yearbook will be in full color for the first time this year, and will be available in the fall.

Deadline to purchase an ad is April 20.

For more information about sizes and prices, contact Capt.

Mark L. Elwood at 1-573-5811776, extension 223, or e-mail melw@mma.mexico.mo.us

March 5-8 pages.indd 1

3/13/2007 4:51:40 PM

MMA Eagle

6

Rifle team shoots at Western Regionals

Five Missouri Military Academy cadet rifle team members represented the Academy well and had “an excellent learning experience” during a recent trip to Colorado Springs, Colo., said MMA rifle team coach 1st Sgt. Randy Jacobson.The team participated in the Western Regional Three-Position Air Rifle Championships at the U.S. Olympic Development Training Center, March 1-4. “The guys were good ambassadors for the school and learned a lot on the trip,” said 1st Sgt. Jacobson.

Cadets shooting for MMA were freshman Kevin Lee of Seoul, South Korea; sophomore Devin Lang of Columbia, Ill.; junior Nevin Harralson of Evansville, Ind.; and seniors Giuseppe Poletti of Vigevano, Italy, and Nick Fajen of Lufkin, Texas.

Fajen placed 15th of 91 in the Army JROTC competition and 28th among 205 shooters overall. All states west of the Mississippi River with Army, Navy or Marine JROTC programs are eligible to qualify for the event. Pictured from left firing at the Olympic Training Center are Lang, Fajen, Harralson and Lee.

Basketball team finishes with double-digit wins The Missouri Military Academy Colonels wrapped up the 2006-07 season with a 10-7 record, best in memory of head basketball coach Maj. Michael Pemberton.

The last game was a 58-54 loss to Douglass High School on Friday night, Feb. 16, in Centennial Gymtorium.

The Colonels trailed, 22-17, after one quarter, but led by a 34-

31 count at the half, and throughout much of the second half.

“I was very proud of the way we played,” said Maj. Pemberton.

“We lost to a very good, very athletic Douglass team.

“The first half was probably our best half of the season. In the end, things just didn’t go our way.”

The Colonels capped the year with a 10-7 record.

Senior Garrett Gregory paced MMA scorers with 20 points, junior Cory Laird had 12 rebounds, and senior Jackson Davis added 19 points and 10 rebounds.

The MMA jayvees lost to the Douglass JV, 44-19, in the opener.

A game scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 15, was canceled when Malta Bend did not travel to Mexico, due to road conditions.

Faculty defeats seniors in annual game

Wednesday, March 14, 2006

Athletes honored at winter sports banquet Missouri Military Academy honored letter winners in three successful state military champion sports teams at its annual Winter Athletics Banquet held Wednesday, Feb. 21, in the MMA Dining Hall.

The MMA wrestling team completed the dual season with a 7-4 record and sent one wrestler to the state tournament under first-year head coach Capt. Ali Syed.

The Joe D. Bailey Trophy for most improved wrestler went to junior heavyweight Manuel Camargo, who finished ninth at the state meet and posted a 16-10 record.

The Baum Wrestling Leadership Trophy went to senior tri-captain Alex Bozarth, who also won the top technique medal. Tri-captain Adrian Martinez won the senior award, and senior tri-captain Kyle Caperton led the team in takedowns and pins, and earned the Keaton Wrestling MVP award.

Freshman Tommy Mansell won the Dave Arbogast Trophy for best first-year wrestler.

In rifle, the Colonels posted an abbreviated 2-1 record with one meet left under coach 1st Sgt. Randy Jacobson.

Senior captain Nick Fajen swept the team shooting awards, winning the best prone,

kneeling, standing and overall trophies. He won two gold medals, one silver and a bronze in four competitions, and placed third in the state in the Junior Olympic competition, and set the school air rifle overall score record against St. Louis University High School.

The Colonels also had a strong season on the hardwood, posting a 10-7 record for coach Maj. Michael Pemberton.

Senior Garrett Gregory led the team in nearly all statistical categories, scoring 402 points for a 25-point per game average, shooting 80 percent at the free throw line, averaging nine rebounds and four assists a game. He won the team most valuable player and best firstyear player awards.

Senior post and captain Jackson Davis captured the most improved player award.

Six new members were added to the M-Club, MMA’s organization for varsity letter winners in two different sports, including Gregory, Caperton, freshman Devin Lang, senior Corey Filla, sophomores Matthew Spears and Anthony Wurl.

Missouri Military Academy junior heavyweight Manuel Camargo qualified for the state wrestling tournament in his hometown of Columbia, Mo., with a runner-up finish at the regional tournament in St. Louis on Feb. 10.

Camargo improved his season record to 15-8 with the second-place finish, and posted a 1-2 record and finished ninth

in his weight class at the state championships Feb. 17.

MMA seniors Kyle Caperton and Alex Bozarth both missed qualifying for state by one spot as each finished fifth in the district. Bozarth qualified in 2006.

“Our guys wrestled hard, but had some tough draws,” said MMA head coach Ali Syed.

“Overall, I’m proud of their effort.”

Camargo ninth at state wrestling meet

Director of Studies Maj. Frank Giuseffi splits the defense of seniors Jackson Davis, left, of LaVeta, Colo., and Jose Flores of Puebla, Puebla, Mexico, en route to a layup in the faculty’s 63-49 victory over the seniors Feb. 19 in Centennial Gymtorium.

Also looking on in the photo is 1st Sgt. James Wheeler.

March 5-8 pages.indd 2

3/13/2007 4:52:19 PM

W

6

MMA Eagle

Wednesday, March 14, 2007

Cadets make blood drive a big success

7 Band learns from best at Ft. Leonard Wood The Missouri Military Academy band took a field trip to Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., on Feb. 7 to practice with and learn from members of the 399th Army Band.

The 399th band helped cadets with concert pieces they will be performing in Winter Park, Colo., on the annual band trip March 28-31. The bands practiced together, then broke down into sections.

“It is always a wonderful experience for the cadets to play with professional musicians,” said Col. Dana Reynard, MMA bandmaster, “Cadets benefit from the practice so much.”

Missouri Military Academy cadets, faculty and local residents more than doubled the goal of a blood drive held March 6 in Centennial Gymtorium, according to MMA nurse Mrs. Barbara Williams. More than 113 donors gave 88 pints of blood, easily eclipsing the goal of 40. The drive was conducted by Community Blood Services and co-sponsored by Delta Phi and the M-Club of MMA. Here, senior Alex Bozarth of Battleground, Wash., donates.

MMA junior Poor earns Eagle Scout award

Nicholas Poor, a junior at Missouri Military Academy, has received notification from the Hoosier Trails Boy Scout Council that he has met the requirements and has attained the rank of Eagle Scout.

Poor has been a member of Boy Scout Troop 110, based in Unionville, Ind., for six years.

During that time, he has held the troop positions of senior patrol leader, assistant senior patrol leader, patrol leader and quartermaster. He was also a joint member of MMA Troop 39, and was recognized at the MMA Scout Sunday battalion review.

The Eagle Scout leadership project he planned, developed

Nick Poor and implemented was to refurbish the playground for the Middle Way House in Bloomington, Ind. Middle Way House is a non-profit organization that shelters survivors of domestic violence and their children. There are 28 apartments with

approximately 60 children there.

Behind Middle Way House is a playground for the children.

Besides functioning as a playground, it is used for a meeting area and outdoor recreation. The playground was made eight years ago and had been used extensively.

There was no sand left, bikes were scattered everywhere, the basketball goals were broken and the storage shed was in disrepair.

Poor, fellow Scouts and leaders replaced 20 tons of sand; repaired, painted and re-netted the basketball goals; built three new picnic tables; constructed a new storage shed; and trimmed the overhanging trees branches, allowing a clear shot at the new basketball goals.

February Athlete, Student of the Month

Left, junior Manuel Camargo of Columbia, Mo., was named the Missouri Military Academy February Athlete of the Month

by Director of Athletics Capt. Brian Maher, and junior Rene Zuazua of San Pedro, Nuevo Leon, Mexico, right, was tapped as February Student of the Month by Director of Studies Maj. Frank Giuseffi. (Left photo by Lance Cpl. Rocky Huppert)

March 5-8 pages.indd 3

3/13/2007 4:52:50 PM

8

MMA Eagle

Wednesday, March 14, 2007

More than 400 applaud ‘Hobbit’ performance

The Missouri Military Academy Dramateers presented the fantasy play “The Hobbit” before more than 400 appreciative people March 3 in Centennial Gymtorium.

The play is based on the novel of the same name by J.R.R. Tolkien.

Capt. Jonathan Griffin directed the play and senior Jackson Davis was the student director. Capt. Syl Mansfield is the Dramateers sponsor.

The title role of Bilbo Baggins was played by Geoff Spaulding. Supporting leads were Gandalf the Wizard, played by Hugh Carnahan, and dwarf king Thorin Oakenshield, played by Nick Wegman.

The audience followed the adventures of an at-first unwilling Baggins as he traveled across Middle Earth to help Oakenshield recover his family treasure, buried in a mountain guarded by a fire-breathing dragon. Along the way he finds courage and stealth in his role as a “burglar.”

He meets a strange create and finds a powerful ring which makes the wearer invisible. He battles goblins and becomes a reluctant and unsuccessful mediator between the dwarves and men.

A scene between Spaulding and the creature Gollum, played by Travis Howard, drew lengthy applause from the audience, and the cast received a standing ovation at the conclusion of the performance.

Other characters included dwarves Bryan Ashley, Dylan Waschkowski, Chris Taylor, Nick Poor, Rocky Huppert, A.J. Vassen, Yuscanne Campos, Logan Branch, Rosendo Gonzalez, Anthony Wurl, Nate Brand and Michael Haner-McAllister.

Goblins were played

by Thomas Mennemeyer, Samuel Kovar, Glen Weaver, Derek Uhley, James Poettker, Aaron Goetting and Mauricio Arregui.

The men of Laketown included Rueben Senatore, Gavin Davis, Corey Filla,

Zach McCabe, Rene Zuazua, Alex Flynn and Jacob Goro.

Jackson Davis was the voice of the dragon Smaug.

“The cadets worked long and hard to make this play a success, and I am proud of their effort and performance,” said Capt. Griffin.

Behind the scenes, James Rummenie handled sound, the spotlight was operated by Stephen Hasheeve-Salvato, Giuseppe Poletti was technical director, and stage lights were managed by Kyu Won Lee and Won Uk Lee MMA art cadets of Capt.

Marijo Lagemann created boulders and other scenery for the stage, including Jake Musick and Kuan Yu Cheng who put in extra effort.

Mr. Greg Morton and the MMA maintenance staff set the stage and assisted with props. Mrs. Amy Griffin led a costume team that included Mrs. Rebecca Wilson, Mrs. Dorothy Herring, Miss Meg Griffin and Miss Hannah Wilson.

Cadets see Missouri Supreme Court in action

More than 400 people attended the March 3 performance of “The Hobbit” by the Missouri Military Academy Dramateers in Centennial Gymtorium. Here, Bilbo Baggins, played by Geoff Spaulding of Camdenton, Mo., right, explains to dwarf king Thorin Oakenshield, played by Nick Wegman of St. Louis, why he can’t go on the quest to recover the dwarves’ treasure.

Fourragere earned by 39 For outstanding academic achievement in month of January, there were 39 Missouri Military Academy cadets who received the Academic Fourragere, according to Maj. Frank Giuseffi, MMA director of studies, and Lt. Col. Jonathan P. Eastman, Middle School principal.

The announcement was made March 2.

Cadets who received academic fourragere for February were: Sgt. Bryan Ashley of Crestwood, Mo; Sgt. Gaston Batalla of Ciudad Cariari, Costa Rica; Sgt. 1st Class Alexander Bozarth of Battleground, Wash.; Cpl. Logan Branch of Norman, Okla.; Cpl. Nate Brand of Geneva, Ill.; Sgt. Manuel Camargo of Mexico City, Mexico; Sgt. Yuscanne Campos of Mexico City; Sgt. Hugh Carnahan of Nixa, Mo.; Sgt. Javier Guevara of Izucar de Matamoros, Puebla, Mexico; Pvt. 1st Class Chris Jones of Joplin, Mo.; Pvt. Ki Min Kang of Yongin, South Korea; Cpl. Hyung Woo Kim of Goyang, Gyeonggi-do,

South Korea; Sgt. Young Hee Kim of Seoul, South Korea; Pvt. 1st Class Sin Chan Law of Seoul; Cpl. Kyu Won Lee of Seoul; Cpl. Jun Yong Lee of Seoul; Pvt. 1st Class Kyuin Lee of Seoul; Cpl. Won Uk Lee of Seoul; Sgt. Won Seok Oh of Seoul; Pvt. Jonathan Pang of St. Louis, Mo.; Lance Cpl. Glenn Petty of Tipton, Mo.; Pvt. 1st Class James Poettker of Flat Rock, Ill.; Pvt. Fernando Silva, Mexico City; Pvt. 1st Class Geoff Spaulding of Camdenton, Mo.; Cpl. Dylan Waschkowski of Council Bluffs, Iowa; Cpl. Adam White of Pearland, Texas; Cpl. Jung Soo Woo, Seoul; Pvt. Anthony Wurl of Columbus, Ind.; and Sgt. Rene Zuazua of San Pedro, Mexico.

Delta Phi members who received the Academic Fourragere for the month were:

Capt. Kuan Yu Cheng of Chicago, Ill.; Sgt. Giorgio Bonadiman of Padova, Italy; 1st Lt. Nick Fajen of Lufkin, Texas; Sgt. Nevin Harralson of Evansville, Ind.; Master Sgt. Woo Jai Jang of Asan City, South Korea; and Maj. Giuseppe Poletti of Vigevano, Italy.

Grandparents, continued from p. 1

MMA cadets in business and social studies classes took a trip to the Missouri Supreme Court building in Jefferson City, Mo., on Feb. 24. Front row, from left on the court steps are Jackson Davis, Alex Bozarth, Garrett Gregory, Matthew Armstrong, Angel Olea, Woo Jai Jang, Drew Benoit and Giuseppe Poletti. Second row: Adrian Martinez, Jose Ruiz, Anthony Wurl, Corey Filla, Dylan Waschkowski and Geoff Spaulding. Third row: Richard Johnson, Nick Fajen, Adam White, Cory Laird, Nick Wegman, Christopher Luna and Fernando Silva. Top row are trip sponsors Maj. Peggy Reynard and Maj. Lawrence McClarey. “I realized that it is a lot harder to be a judge and a lawyer than what people commonly think. Both the lawyers and judges seemed brilliant in their answers (to cadet questions). I now have a better understanding of what it is like and realize that the American judicial system is admirable,” said cadet Waschkowski.

“I think the trip was very informative. It was a good experience to see how the Supreme Court operates and the kind of cases that are heard at the state level. I also enjoyed seeing the large library in the court building,” Wurl said. “I was able to see how appellate lawyers operated. I am interested in becoming a lawyer, and the trip showed in detail one path of opportunity for my career. It was interesting to see how the justices interrogated the lawyers to answer their questions. It was also interesting to see how the lawyers presented their arguments, whether they used hand gestures or booming voices,” stated White. (Photo by Capt. Kuan Yu Cheng)

March 5-8 pages.indd 4

The Spring Formal DinnerDance is scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m. in Centennial Gymtorium. There will be cadet musical performances and artwork on display prior to the dance.

Mirage, a St. Louis area band, will perform at the dance.

Dinner-dance reservations are required, and are due by April 1.

Cost is $20 for parents and grandparents, $15 for children and $10 for cadets.

“Reservations are already coming in from families,” said Lt.

Col. Paul Gillette, ‘70. “Everyone had a great time last year, and we’re expecting a good crowd again this time.”

He said there will also be a drawing sponsored by the Class of 2007, with proceeds going to the senior class project.

At 1:40 p.m. Sunday, the battalion review will honor grandparents, with a performance by the Brigadiers Middle School drill squad immediately thereafter.

Vespers will conclude activities at 6:30 p.m. Sunday in Memorial Chapel.

3/13/2007 4:53:23 PM