The MISSOURI MILITARY ACADEMY'S TRUSTED NEWS SOURCE SINCE 1900 Summer 2022 Strengthened by Brotherhood Eagle
EVERY THEABECOMESBOYMAN.QUESTION IS, WHAT KIND WILL YOURS BECOME? 888-564-6662 • MissouriMilitaryAcademy.org • Discipline + Scholarship + Leadership = Success MM A MI SS OURI MILI TA RY ACADEMY MM MI SS OURI
Since 1889, thousands of parents have looked to Missouri Military Academy to give their boys the structure, responsibility and the love they need to grow, compete and thrive — in order to become young men in full command of their lives. Located in Mexico, Missouri, MMA serves young men in grades 7 through 12, plus post-grad year.
RichardSincerely,Cadets.V. Geraci Brigadier General, USA (Ret) President BG RICHARD V. GERACI, USA (RET)
focus on what cadets can achieve and stay committed to their sons’ success at MMA, cadets flourish and gain strength to accomplish more than they previously thought possible. I encourage our parents to focus on the finish line, their cadet’s MMA graduation — and how much they can and will achieve at the Academy. Celebrate short-term successes, but look at the full picture and set a goal to help your cadet realize his full potential. Through our partnership, transparency and responsiveness with parents, we provide the stability, guidance, structure and motivation that cadets need to thrive, academically and MMApersonally.isaliving, learning environment with daily emphasis on leadership, life skills and strong interpersonal relationships. We are committed to providing a safe environment where each cadet can reach his full potential and grow up to be an accountable, responsible young man of honor. Emphasizing the development of productive relationships and effective relational teaching, we provide proactive adult supervision of cadets, in and outside the classroom. We educate cadets on positive behavior, conflict resolution and healthy choices. We teach them to take care of themselves and their property and to avoid careless, high-risk behavior that could harm themselves or their MMA brothers. With clearly established rules, cadets learn how to follow, how to lead and how to work together as a team with their MMA brothers. We teach cadets to encourage and stand up for one another and to come forward if they see or learn of something that puts another cadet at risk. At MMA, we believe our core values of academic excellence, duty, honor, integrity, loyalty, respect, personal courage, selfless service and leadership are essential to the successful education and development of today’s youth. Thank you to those who support our mission. We look forward to celebrating the successes to come this year for the 134th Missouri Military Academy Corps of
Missouri Military Academy 3
With the start of each new semester, our Missouri Military Academy parents experience a mix of emotions as they drop their cadets off at the Academy. My wife and I remember those same feelings from when we did the same with both of our sons at their military school. Despite missing them from our daily home life, we stayed focused on all they were gaining. Sacrifices lead to reward, and challenges lead to growth. The experience that MMA cadets undertake is rigorous and not easy, and it is not for everyone. Parents must let go, trust the process and focus on the benefits and advantages their cadets receive. Attending MMA is an exclusive opportunity for our cadets to better themselves and learn to choose the harder right over the easy wrong. We maintain high expectations for cadets and hold them to high standards. Cadets need strong family support to succeed, especially when they realize they are going to be challenged and held accountable at WhenMMA.parents
A Message from the President
CORE VALUES Discipline + Scholarship + Leadership = Success
Service
The Eagle4 Academic Excellence Providing a world-class education that prepares our cadets for college entrance and graduation from the nation’s finest four-year colleges and universities. Duty Performing one’s obligations, tasks, service or functions that emanate from their position or station in either life or a group. Honor To exercise and maintain fairness, integrity and honesty in one’s beliefs and actions. Integrity A firm devotion to moral and ethical principles and soundness of character in all our affairs.
Respect
Loyalty To one’s family, friends, teammates, institution and nation. To render appropriate deferential regard and esteem to family and friends, teammates and competitors, peers and leaders, institutions and one’s country.
Selfless
To
Personal Courage choose the harder right over the easier wrong. Service to each other, our families, MMA, community and nation. Leadership Simply put, one’s ability to influence others in a positive manner to accomplish an assigned task.
Missouri Military Academy 5 Financial support for cadets is a growing need. By supporting the MMA 1889 Scholarship Fund, you make a lasting impact on the lives of young men with a simple monthly gift. Please consider a recurring monthly gift of $18.89 or an annual commitment of $226.68. Join and show your support today. Visit bit.ly/1889-Scholarship-Fund. You can make a difference in our lives.
The Eagle6 ContentsSUMMER 2022 Missouri Military Academy 204 North Grand St., Mexico, MO 65265 573-581-1776 • MissouriMilitaryAcademy.org ©2022 All rights reserved. The Eagle is a biannual publication produced by Missouri Military Academy. Please send comments, questions and/or suggestions to Onmarketing@missourimilitaryacademy.com.thecover:MMAColonelsfootballteam takes the field, fall 2021. Editorial and design by CatchPhrase Communications. Photography by Matt Jackson, Jessica Ekern, Cheryl Morris, Rick Dehlinger, Christy Nowlin, Erin Schreyer, Derek Drenberg ’22 and Sarah Kiefer. 27 32
Missouri Military Academy 7 MissouriMilitaryAcademy.org Welcome 3 A Message from the President 8 Features 27 Passport to Adventure Alumnus Lawrence Casselle ’93 shares how his MMA education has served him well in posts around the world in his national security career. 32 JROTC — Developing Leadership and Citizenship Through innovative new programs, national competitions and leadership development, the Army JROTC program at MMA strengthens cadets’ positive character traits and discipline. 35 Triumph in Life In-depth college and career guidance at MMA sets cadets on the path for long-term success. 38 Fall Sports Preview Every cadet at MMA participates in athletics. Learn what to expect from Colonels athletics this fall. Highlights 8 Photo Journal 10 News Highlights 18 From the Archives 20 Cadet Profiles 23 Faculty and CLA Profiles 26 Program Highlight: Broadcasting 42 Summer Strong: 2022 Camps at MMA Alumni 46 Alumni Association Leadership 47 Alumni Updates26 President Geraci with the 2021-22 honor platoon.
PHOTO JOURNAL
Final Formation
On Saturday, May 21, 2022, the 133rd Missouri Military Academy Corps of Cadets assembled on front campus for Final Formation, led by Battalion Commander Michael Machary-Pagan. Families and friends watched as each company was recognized and the command of the corps was symbolically passed to next year’s cadet leaders. The newly graduated MMA Brothers said goodbye, following this well-loved MMA tradition.
PHOTO JOURNAL
The MMA Fusileer Drill team participated in the National High School Drill Team Competition April 14-16 in Daytona, Florida, where they competed in the U.S. Army Drill National Championship and the All Service Drill National Championship. The team placed fourth in the nation for the Armed Masters Division and competed against nearly 70 schools and 1,500 cadets. The Colonels team also placed third in the nation for Armed Regulation, fourth in Armed Color Guard and fifth in Armed Exhibition competition.
The Eagle10 NEWS HIGHLIGHTS
Drill Team Finishes 4th in Nation for Armed Masters Division, Drill Team Commander Named Nation’s Best
HighlightsNews ● 1 ● 1
Cadet Michael Machary-Pagan, a high school senior from Lake St. Louis, Missouri, and Cadet Rene Garcia Garza, a high school senior from Cadereyta Jimenez, Nuevo Leon, Mexico, received prestigious recognitions. Machary-Pagan earned first place in the nation for armed commander, and Garza earned first place honors in the armed individual drilldown competition. “I am very proud of our cadets,” MMA President Brigadier General Richard V. Geraci, USA (Ret) says. “They have consistently demonstrated that they can compete with the very best at the national level and do very well.”
RIGHT: Cadet Michael Machary-Pagan earned first place in the nation for armed commander.
LEFT: MMA Fusileers Drill Team at national competition in Daytona, April 2022
Chief of Staff for the Diplomatic Security Service Lawrence “Kwakou” Casselle, a 1993 MMA graduate, addresses the Class of 2022. Class of 2022 graduates
Commencement
Continued
Seth Straka Alejandro Mercado Nathaniel Lockett and Dylan Jones Evan Schreyer
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Missouri Military Academy 11 NEWS HIGHLIGHTS
Casselle, chief of staff for the Diplomatic Security Service and a 1993 MMA graduate, addressed the class of 2022 as the keynote speaker, congratulating them on their achievements and reflecting on his experience after graduation. “What MMA gave me nearly three decades ago, and has given you, are the tools to succeed in life,” said Casselle, who has spent his entire career in service to country, as an Army officer and later as a special agent for the Diplomatic Security Service. “I assure each one of you that what you have learned here will serve you long after you have stood your Final Formation.” MMA President BG Geraci, USA (Ret) also commended the graduating class: “Your graduation from MMA is a significant benchmark in your life’s journey. We are tremendously proud of you and confident in your ability to achieve every goal you set for yourself.”
For more on Casselle, read “Passport to Adventure” on page 27.
The 133rd MMA Corps of Cadets celebrated their high school commencement on May 21, with all 39 graduates and two post-grads achieving college acceptance. The Class of 2022 has been offered more than $4.1 million in college Lawrencescholarships.“Kwakou”
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MMA Cadets Earn 5 Trophies in National Military School Competitions
The Eagle12 NEWS HIGHLIGHTS
The Association of Military Colleges & Schools (AMCSUS) of the United States announced their 2021 competition winners at the AMCSUS annual conference in Alexandria, Virginia, in early March. MMA cadets earned five trophies in competitions, including the logic bowl, high school drill team, middle school drill team and high school and middle school physical training (PT) MMAchallenges.President BG Geraci, USA (Ret) praised the cadets’ achievements. “I am extremely proud of what our cadets and team sponsors have accomplished,” he says. “What is significant is that we placed in all three important aspects of a premier military school — academic, military discipline and physical fitness. Only one other school also placed in all three.” Geraci says the MMA cadets, who tied with Marine Military Academy for the most overall AMCSUS awards, reflected the Academy’s 360° Education program goals. The program seeks to develop each cadet’s mind, body and spirit through educational experiences that extend beyond the MMAclassroom.placed second in both the AMCSUS national drill competition and the AMCSUS logic bowl competition. The logic bowl competition, which evaluates the cadets’ academic performance, is designed to enhance critical thinking, prioritization and leadership skills. Both the middle school and high school divisions of the MMA Fusileer Drill team earned second place through their performance video submissions, which were evaluated based on qualities including the formation commander’s command voice and presence, the formation’s appearance and ability to execute drill commands and the difficulty of commands. In the AMCSUS National Physical Training Competition, MMA high school and middle school divisions placed third. The results were based on a timed 1.5-mile run and the maximum number of pushups and sit-ups cadets could perform in one minute for each exercise. The five-cadet team had one hour to complete all three events. 3 Logic bowl team, second place Middle school PT competitors, third place High school PT competitors, third place High school drill team, second place Middle school drill team, second place
Missouri Military Academy 13 NEWS HIGHLIGHTS
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• Gorka-Aitor Yarte-Zertuche (Libson, Portugal) 5 4 5
• Luis Orozco Navarro (Magdalena Contreras, Mexico)
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• Luke Ott (Dallas, Texas)
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• Cadet Marco Afane finished 31st with a 1024 • Cadet Rene Garcia Garza finished 32nd with a 1023.
Continued
The MMA Final Four tennis team consisted of the following cadet-athletes:
•follows:Cadet Ethan Zinser finished 16th with a 1070
• Nathan Dempsey (Colleyville, Texas)
• Simon Way (Milton, Georgia)
• Cadet Lance Newland finished 22nd with a 1056
MMA Tennis Team Places 4th at State For the first time in 30 years, MMA athletes made it to the Final Four. This marked MMA’s first overall athletics Final Four appearance since 1992. Colonels Tennis finished fourth in Class 1 state competition. According to head coach Brad Smith, the Colonels were well prepared for this year’s competition, and he has high expectations for next year. “I think that we’re going to take state next year,” Smith says. “I have full confidence that next year is going to be a strong year for us and even the year after.”
• Samuel Way (Milton, Georgia)
2022Allen.rifle
MMA Rifle Team Finishes 7th in 2022 Army JROTC National Championship Following the March 17-19 JROTC National Championship competition in Camp Perry, Ohio, the MMA Colonels Rifle team, coached by Mike Shoemaker and CPT Joe Balvanz, finished seventh na tionally, competing against 2,178 JROTC cadets from across the United States, Europe and the Pacific. “It was a hard fight against the nation’s top teams representing all branches of service,” Balvanz says. “Coach Shoemaker and I are very proud of the team’s resilience and Finalperformance.”national standings for the individual firers on the MMA Colonels team are as
From left: Paul Petit ’85, Coach Brad Smith; Cadets Samuel Way, Nathan Dempsey, Gorka-Aitor Yarte-Zertuche, Luis Orozco Navarro, Simon Way, Jose Anguiano and Jose Angui ano Sr.; and Coach Tom team: Coach Shoemaker, Cadets Marco Afane, Rene Garcia Garza, Lance Newland, Blake Morais, Ethan Zinzer and Coach Balvanz.
• Jose Anguiano (Atizapan De Zaragoza, Mexico)
“The cadets researched their stocks, accurately timed the rises and dips of the market and diversified their stock holdings,” he says. “They prepared, worked hard and consequently performed extremely well. I am extremely proud of their performance.” 7 7
Business team in third place were Cadets Nyeal Biedenstein, a senior from St. Louis; Rene Garcia Garza, a senior from Cadereyta Jimenez, Nuevo Leon, Mexico; and Michael Henderson, a senior from Greenbrier, Arkansas. Cadet Melick also received seventh place in Accounting I. MMA encourages cadets interested in business to join MMA’s FBLA chapter each August at the beginning of the school year.
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The Eagle14 NEWS HIGHLIGHTS
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International Business team, third place FBLA state competition in Springfield, Missouri Sports and Entertainment Management team, third place
From left to right, faculty member Lawrence McClarey, Cadets Joseph Jackson, Clayton Nelson and Zachary Leatz — first place winners in the Missouri high school division of the Stock Market Game
At the end of the trading session, Jackson, Leatz and Nelson finished with the highest equity: $172,240.50. Lawrence McClarey, MMA Social Studies and Foreign Language Department chair and instructor, oversaw the cadets’ participation in the game and commented on their performance.
MMA Cadets Joseph Jackson, Zachary Leatz and Clayton Nelson won the Missouri high school division of the Stock Market Game, a 10-week online simulation of the global capital markets. Since 1999, MMA cadets have participated in the Stock Market Game, a program of the Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association Foundation that teaches knowledge of the financial markets. This marks the second time an MMA team has finished in the top 10 in Missouri and the first time MMA cadets achieved first-place honors.
MMA Cadets Qualify for Nationals at 2022 State Future Business Leaders of America
Competition MMA cadets earned first-, third- and seventh-place awards at the 2022 Missouri Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) competition April 10-12 in Springfield, Missouri. The MMA Sports and Entertainment Management and International Business teams qualified for nationals, which occurred June 29-July 2 in InChicago.firstplace at the state competition were Sports and Entertainment Management team Cadets Marco Afane, a high school junior from El Salvador; Anthony Melick, a junior from Overland Park, Kansas; and Jack Stalnaker, a senior from Morrison, FromColorado.theInternational
MMA Team Wins Missouri High School Division of the Stock Market Game
MMA Middle School Cadets Receive
TOP, LEFT: From left: Cadet Brayden Edwards, Instructor Keith Morgan and Cadet Hayden James.
Missouri Military Academy 15 NEWS HIGHLIGHTS
1st and 2nd Place Awards in
Congressional App Challenge Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler (R-Mo.) announced the winners of the 2021 Congressional App Challenge, an event that engages students in computer science, for Missouri’s Fourth Congressional District.
TOP, RIGHT: From left: Coach Thomas Allen, Cadet Kevin Wang, Cadet Kevith Sangster and President Geraci.
LOWER, RIGHT: Cadet Wang places first in Power Sport and Push-Pull and second in Full Power.
First-place finishers from each congressional district showcased their apps to the members of Congress and members of the tech community at the Congressional App Challenge #HouseOfCode reception in the spring.
MMA Cadets Place 1st at Powerlifting Nationals, Earn All-American Honors
Brayden Edwards, a seventh-grade cadet at MMA, earned first place for his “Avoid the Crystals!” app, and Hayden James, also a seventh-grade cadet at MMA, was awarded second place for his “Shortcuts” app.
Continued
MMA Cadets Kevin Wang and Kevith Sangster earned first place in their respective divisions at the 2022 Natural Athlete Strength Association National High School Meet in Oklahoma City on April 9 and 10. The two cadets earned status as national champions and High School AllAmerican honors in powerlifting. “Cadet Wang and Cadet Sangster have both worked hard in the weight room and have given our younger cadets great role models to follow,” says MMA Strength Coach Thomas Allen. “We are very proud of them in their efforts and accomplishments.”
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“The Academy’s mission and core values are so very clear and palpable,” Kunst said in an Oct. 27, 2021, letter to Geraci. “It is abundantly clear to my team that one of the most commendable aspects of this institution is all of you. We consistently saw in (faculty and staff) a spirit of collaboration and teamwork and an aspirational attitude.” Geraci says MMA will use the ISACS final report to create priorities for school improvement in the Academy’s next strategic plan update. MMA’s renewed accreditation will be in effect through June 30, 2029. 10 ● 10
It is abundantly clear to my team that one of the most commendable aspects of this institution is all of you. We consistently saw in (faculty and staff) a spirit of collaboration and teamwork and an aspirational attitude.
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ISACS Accreditation Affirms Missouri Military Academy’s Mission, Focus and Delivery of High-Quality Education
In October 2021, Missouri Military Academy renewed its accreditation with the Independent Schools Association of the Central States, affirming its position as a high-quality educational institution. The ISACS Accreditation Review Committee conducted a rigorous seven-year review cycle that involved an in-depth self-study, surveys, financial audits and external review by a visiting ISACS team. “We chose ISACS accreditation because, as an educational institution, we desire to be professionally held accountable,” says MMA President Brigadier General Richard V. Geraci, USA (Ret). “The results of this third-party review highlight the strong health of the Academy.”
TOP, LEFT: Cadet Tyler TOP,Harris-AveryRIGHT: Cadet Hunter InstructorBOTTOM,McArthurLEFT:JessicaMiller BOTTOM, RIGHT: Cadets Gabriel Ontiveros and Gerardo Quiroga and band teacher James Garrett
The Eagle16 NEWS HIGHLIGHTS
ISACS team leader Kevin Kunst praised the Academy for its faculty and staff, motto and dedication to its mission — empowering young men to unlock their potential.
Missouri Military Academy 17 NEWS HIGHLIGHTS ● 11 2022 Maroon & Gold Gala Benefits Cadets with Record-Breaking Amount Raised The 2022 Maroon & Gold Gala broke a fundraising record, with supporters raising more than $210,000 after expenses on April 23. More than 300 parents, friends, alumni, patrons, faculty, staff and board of trustees members were in attendance. Funds from the Maroon & Gold Gala support MMA’s strategic plan, which involves developing cadet life programs like competitive band, athletic and military teams and intramural programs. Two generous sponsors teamed up with a match challenge of $50,000 for Maroon & Gold 2022, making a significant positive impact. Thank you to MMA Board of Trustees Chairman Strib and Janie Koster and MMA Board of Trustees member Jim ’86 and Amy Obenshain for matching up to $25,000 each. ● 11
Flashback to the 1985 school year. Fine artists competed in the Epple Memorial Art Show, an annual event that honors Drs. Robert and Kathryn Epple, prominent physicians in Mexico during the 1950s and 1960s, and their family. A 1943 graduate of MMA, Robert Epple served as the MMA physician for 13 years. At the 1985 exhibit, cadets used various artistic mediums — pencil, charcoal, pastel, paper, canvas, computer graphics and photography — to showcase their creativity and express themselves. The Dramateers theater group brought dark themes to the stage with their two productions: Sweeney Todd, the Barber and The Investigation Regarding the creativity of the cadets at the art show, the 1985 TAPS yearbook states: “All express the personality of the artist. And the work is for the enjoyment of the artist, its viewers, and the judges at the Epple Art Show.”
The Eagle18
Then — 1985 Fine Arts Education
Now — 2022 Fine Arts Education
At Missouri Military Academy, cadets are encouraged to be creative — as creativity helps hone critical thinking skills, increase academic intelligence, promote civic engagement and motivate self-expression and individual identity. Cadets build confidence through fine arts education. MMA offers choir, bag pipes, band, private music lessons, jazz, orchestra, marching band, visual arts and theater arts. “Whether it is music, art, theater — cadets have an opportunity to create, express and be a part of something bigger than themselves,” says Cheryl Morris, Fine Arts Department chair and art instructor. “Shy people can become someone different when an instrument is placed in their hands, a paintbrush to a canvas and being a performer on a stage. Being creative and thinking outside the box helps in all areas of our cadets’ lives.”
FROM THE ARCHIVES
Then and Now: Creativity and Fine Arts Education at MMA
RIGHT: MMA art teacher Cheryl Morris assists Cadet Russell Olson with an art project during the 2021-22 academic year.
As a top military high school, MMA leverages the strength of regional academic partners who help us provide an educational experience that’s second to none. We are proud to be partnered with the Presser Arts Center, which provides high-quality performing arts productions, plus instruction in a variety of disciplines, including music, art, performance theater,
LEFT from the 1985 TAPS yearbook: Epple Art Show judges Carol Bramon and Jane Norman, members of the Mexico Artists Guild, plan to award ribbons and prizes for the cadets’ work.
The cadet art show during the Mother’s Day Festival of the Arts includes the Epple categories: photography, pen and ink, landscapes in paint and pastels, pastel portraits and high- and lowresolution computer graphics.
This sentiment remains true today. At MMA, cadets participate in fine arts education for the enjoyment of themselves and their audiences, whether they are competing in an art show, putting on a play or performing with the band. The arts are essential to our cadets. By integrating fine arts into the curriculum, MMA cadets have improved performances in math, English, critical thinking, decision making and verbal skills — all valuable skills for academics and adulthood.
MMA President Brigadier General Richard V. Geraci, USA (Ret) says through arts education, MMA aims to teach cadets how to think, not what to think.
Cadets in the bagpipe program perform at the 2022 Festival of the Arts.
“The more creative you are, the better critical thinker you will become,” Geraci says. “(Fine arts and creativity) can help you learn to make good decisions, work through problems and learn how to communicate more effectively.”
The MMA Choir performs under the direction of Iris Shoemaker at the 2022 Festival of the Arts.
Cadet Lucas Sydlewski, a rising senior from Houlton, Wisconsin, has enjoyed his time in the MMA Fine Arts programs. In April, he competed at the Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA) state music festival, where he received a silver (outstanding) rating for singing “Sing Me a Song of a Lad That Is Gone” and “My Heart Is in the Highlands.” Sydlewski has been involved in theater and music from a young age. Music is his passion and a big part of his “Whenidentity.I first arrived at MMA, I was very worried that I would be unable to continue my passion for music,” Sydlewski says. “However, I was wrong. Having the ability to learn through the arts and explore the fields available truly means a lot. With the opportunities at Presser Arts, both on and off stage, the choir, the band and the private lessons, there are plenty of things to keep both myself and my fellow cadets occupied as well as explore our interests in the arts.”
Missouri Military Academy 19 FROM THE ARCHIVES film and instruments ranging from acoustic guitar to the piano. Through our partnership with Presser Arts Center, cadets can learn theater techniques.
“The arts help people in their future endeavors giving those individuals opportunities to think conceptually, look at things a little bit differently or giving the confidence to approach the task given in a different way,” Morris says.
Sydlewski’s favorite part of MMA arts education is the individualized attention. “Because of the small class sizes, the instructors are able to work better with every cadet and the varied levels they are at, allowing for significant advancement in their desired fields,” he says. Fine arts education equips cadets with myriad skills, according to Morris. Cadets learn to work together, as they must share responsibility and compromise to achieve their common goal. Cadets discover how to be accountable and contribute to a group, whether they have a lead role or not. And they find importance in taking responsibility for mistakes. Mistakes are a part of life, and through arts education, cadets practice accepting mistakes, fixing them and moving on.
“Our fine arts education takes hard work and perseverance,” Morris says. “This mindset will certainly matter as our cadets achieve continued growth — especially during their career where they will likely be asked to continually develop new skills and work through difficult projects.”
The Eagle20 CADET PROFILE
Cadet David Lee is a rising 10th grader from Waynesville, Missouri. How has MMA impacted your life? MMA has helped me learn to be more mature. What is the most important thing you have learned so far at MMA? Leadership skills. Do you have tips for younger cadets who would like to be in leadership someday? Try and lead even if you are not in a leadership position, and help resolve conflicts.
Cadet Kamil Sanchez De Ovando Perez is a rising 8th grader from Ciudad De Mexico, Mexico. How has MMA impacted your life? MMA has given me a new perspective and a better sense of doing the right thing.
Through structure, self-discipline and accountability — plus competition, teamwork and leadership opportunities — MMA inspires cadets to fulfill their potential. Learn how the Academy is positively impacting young men through the eyes of these four cadets.
How Does MMA Positively Impact Cadets?
What is the most important thing you have learned so far at MMA? You have to learn to grow and better yourself. Do you have tips for younger cadets who would like to be in leadership someday? Never give up, and try to do your best. Don’t quit or cry or complain about things not going your way. Just do it, and get it over with.
How has MMA impacted your life? MMA has allowed me to reach my full potential in academics and athletics. What is the most important thing you have learned so far at MMA? To never give up and to not let mistakes define you as a person — learn from your mistakes. What is your favorite memory from sports or other school activities? Winning state in Future Business Leaders of America and going to nationals in Chicago in June 2022.
Cadet Kellan Mugisha is a rising 12th grader from Rwanda and a member of the MMA Color Guard.
How has MMA impacted your life? MMA has made me a disciplined, smart man and has pointed me toward a great path. What is the most important thing you have learned so far at MMA? Find things to always keep you busy. Do you have tips for younger cadets who would like to be in leadership someday? For those of you who are looking for a leadership position, do what you can to get recognized, and participate in a lot of things at the school.
Missouri Military Academy 21 CADET PROFILE
Cadet Marco Afane is a rising 12th grader from La Libertad, El Salvador, and the battalion commander for the 134th MMA Corps of Cadets.
The Eagle22 “Take every opportunity, create memories, become a leader and do the best that you can. Before you notice, your time will be done, and you will miss it.” – RENE GARCIA GARZA, BATTALION EXECUTIVE OFFICER ’22 If you are a cadet or a future cadet, MAKE THE BEST OUT OF MMA. MM A MI SS OURI MILI TA RY ACADEMY Ad purchased during the 2022 Maroon & Gold Gala auction. MMA thanks the Garcia Garza family for their support. Garcia Garza and sister Regina
I would consider myself and all my fellow CLAs the jacks-ofall-trades for MMA. We have the responsibility of mentoring, coaching, teaching and being role models for the next generation of leaders. I believe the most important part of my job is to make sure these cadets graduate from MMA and become great leaders.
Missouri Military Academy 23
Kordel Moore Company Leadership Advisor
Favorite podcast? Jocko Podcast on leadership and discipline Dream trip? The Colosseum in Rome Most people don’t know that you … I worked on a farm as a swine technician for a year. My role at MMA Using my training from the Army and Corrections, I assist in counseling, mentoring and tutoring cadets to become young leaders. I help them maintain accountability on military bearing, homework, uniformity and physical training, and I assist them with issues inside the barracks and issues outside of MMA.
What do you wish all parents knew about life in the barracks for cadets?
Personal I served two years in Corrections as a sergeant and seven years in the Army National Guard. I enjoy playing with my two dogs — Mya, a Belgian Malinois, and Kujo, a German Shepherd — and going to the range with my friends. I am currently attending the University of Phoenix online in pursuit of a Bachelor of Science in business management, and then I plan to obtain a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice administration.
COMPANY LEADERSHIP ADVISOR PROFILE
What do you hope every MMA cadet learns during their time here? Respect, what that word really means and how to respect not only their peers but also everyone outside MMA.
Company Leadership Advisor Kordel Moore was recognized in May as the 2021-22 Company Leadership Advisor of the Year. He joined the Army National Guard in 2015 and holds the rank of specialist. How would you describe what you do at MMA?
During free time, the cadets rarely stay in their own barracks. They hang out with their friends in other companies’ barracks. What are you known for? Always reminding the cadets to tip the delivery drivers.
Materials and facts are of temporary importance. If we can teach the cadets how to personalize their learning process, then they can take the methods and apply them to any area of their lives. I also hope that they understand the power of making and maintaining good friendships as life is largely about community and networks.
While we may never know the extent of the impact that one positive influence can have on a person, treating others the way we want to be treated may allow them to glimpse their full potential, and then they can change their lives accordingly.
Spanish and English Instructor
Joshua Allison
FACULTY PROFILE
Favorite place you’ve ever visited?
Living in Florence was a dream, and I often miss the early morning bike rides along the river. Dream trip? My dream trip is to be a journalist of types and to explore Central and South America by offering to help the people that I meet and writing their stories as I go.
Teaching is a means for me to combine my curiosity and creativity in a unique way that can be a blessing for the community. My current community is in the classroom, and I aspire to help the cadets under my care learn how to communicate better and how to refine their character.
What are you known for? I suppose that I am known for being creative, walking while reading and for being a Christian, though I still have lots of room to grow in order to be the man that God wants me to be. Favorite podcast? Your Story Hour. The program covers major events and people throughout history in a dramatized manner. They also produce the stories in a variety of languages.
How do you hope to have a positive influence upon cadets?
What do you hope every MMA cadet learns during their time here?
The Eagle24 Joshua Allison is the 2021-22 recipient of the Dick Abbott, Bob Albright Class of 1949 Faculty Award for Excellence in Teaching. He worked in business and management before volunteering for a few years in Honduras. He has taught at Missouri Military Academy since 2019. Why do you teach?
Missouri Military Academy 25 “It’s not easy, but the challenges you will overcome and the friends you will make along the way will change your life forever.” – EVAN SCHREYER ’22, BATTALION S-6, COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER Ad purchased during the 2022 Maroon & Gold Gala auction. MMA thanks the Schreyer family for their support. ARE YOU READY TO CHANGE YOUR LIFE?
Go Live — Gaining Broadcast Experience at MMA
LEFT: Members of the fall 2022 broadcasting team: Cadets Zachary Leatz, Mason Kletjian, John Latenser, Evan Schreyer, Damarion Murray and Peter Didicher
“Broadcasting at MMA prepared me very well for sportscasting at the next level,” Schreyer says. “Taking what I had learned over the years, I was able to secure internships and scholarships, as well as have a leg up on my fellow broadcasters,” he adds. “I would highly encourage anyone with an interest in broadcasting to join.”
The Eagle26 SPECIAL PROGRAMS
Missouri Military Academy’s 360° Education guides cadets to their postsecondary plans through hands-on experience and professional opportunities.
The Cronkite School at ASU is one of the nation’s top journalism schools and home to Arizona PBS — the largest media outlet in the world operated by a journalism school.
Schreyer’s experiences with broadcasting at MMA led him to acceptance at ASU.
RIGHT: Cadet Evan Schreyer
Cadets graduate with the necessary skills and confidence to succeed in their desired career paths — such as broadcast journalism. Through broadcast journalism, cadets learn production skills and reporting and storytelling principles. They learn how to combine visual scenes with compelling audio to make stories come to life for audiences. Broadcasting at MMA gives cadets the opportunity to hone their skills behind the camera and on the mic while they get a head start in this fast-growing and competitive Broadcastingfield. opportunities grew for cadets during the first year of the pandemic as MMA began livestreaming most home athletic events to enable families to stay better connected with cadets. Selected cadets have always had the opportunity to work on public speaking skills while serving as announcers during military reviews and events. Now, through livestreaming, cadets gain experience in public speaking and working a livestream — both on and off Duringcamera.his time at MMA, cadet Evan Schreyer, Class of 2022, was an announcer for many livestreamed athletic events and military reviews. “You will learn all about what it takes to run a livestream with the help of experienced personnel,” Schreyer says. “You will learn things such as running a camera, performing sound checks and a multitude of public speaking skills while being on the air.” After gaining broadcast experience at MMA, Schreyer was accepted to Arizona State University broadcasting school for the fall.
Missouri Military Academy 27
His MMA ring has taken Lawrence Casselle ’93 to posts around the world. Never in his wildest dreams did teenager Lawrence Casselle see himself riding in a helicopter over Baghdad with the most powerful woman in the world. But he did. He never imagined he’d be walking the halls of the White House to brief the president and his administration on national security threats at home and abroad. But he did. He never thought he’d be running down bad guys in South America and returning the fugitives to America to face the music. But he did. At 15, Casselle thought he wanted no part of Missouri Military Academy. But he did.
ALUMNI Continued
The skinny kid from the hood of North Town Las Vegas thought he had life figured out back in 1990. He knew what he wanted to do in life, and it didn’t require a high school diploma. His mother and aunt had other ideas. The next thing Casselle knew, he was in Mexico, Missouri, standing before Col. Charles Stribling III in front of MMA’s Stribling Hall. “What I would not give right now to know what Col. Stribling was thinking at that very moment,” he told the new graduates at MMA’s 2022 commencement. “Now, I have a pretty good idea of two things he was not thinking. First: ‘I think I found my Delta Company commander in two years.’ Secondly: ‘This kid should come speak at an MMA commencement one day.’” But he did.
Passport to Adventure
MMA honored Cadet Lance Newland from Folsom, California, as valedictorian and presented him with the Academy’s highest scholarship award. Newland plans to attend Syracuse University in the fall. Cadet Rene Garcia Garza from Cadereyta Jimenez, Nuevo Leon, Mexico, was salutatorian. He plans to attend Tecnológico de Monterrey in Mexico.
Going Places — What’s Ahead for the Class of 2022
Following MMA tradition, 100 percent of the members of the graduating Class of 2022 achieved college acceptance. As a class, they have been offered more than $4.1 million in college scholarships. These new MMA graduates will attend schools such as Northwestern University, Syracuse University, The Citadel, University of Missouri, University of Arkansas and more. Six cadets have also chosen to enter U.S. military service. “You are not going to believe where your MMA ring is going to take you,” Diplomatic Security Service Chief of Staff Lawrence “Kwakou” Casselle ’93 said in his address to the graduates on commencement day. “What you have learned here will serve you long after you have stood your Final Formation.”
ALUMNI
LEFT: Casselle with Secretary Rice in a blackhawk helicopter in Baghdad, Iraq. RIGHT: Casselle leading an excercise with the Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force in Baghdad, March 2019.
‘“I can’t do it” is not an acceptable answer’
As a cadet, Casselle found opportunities to exercise those newfound traits — playing football and basketball, captaining the varsity track team, winning the school spelling bee two years running and gaining confidence in public speaking through the Dramateers. He rose to the rank of captain and served as Delta Company commander and Battalion S4 his senior year. After graduation, Casselle attended Hampton University in Virginia, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in political science. He served 10 years in the Army as an infantry officer, rising to captain in the 1st Cavalry Division.
What I learned at MMA was that there is no greater calling in life than service. Service comes in all different ways, both in uniform and as a civilian. America and the world … need both. Remember this: ‘To serve is to lead.’
Now serving as chief of staff to the assistant secretary of state for diplomatic security, Casselle has spent the three decades since his Academy days in service to his country. He served four years as an Army officer and later as a special agent for the Diplomatic Security Service. He returned to MMA in May as keynote speaker for the Academy’s 133rd commencement. MMA, he says, instilled in him four characteristics that would see him through: discipline, perseverance, diversity and service.
Missouri Military Academy 29
ALUMNI
In 2003 Casselle joined the Diplomatic Security Service, serving stints in the New York field office. In 2006 he was assigned to Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice’s protective detail. His two years with Rice included a tense journey to Baghdad in 2007 so Rice could deliver a private message from President George W. Bush to Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki. As leader of the advance security team, Casselle’s objective was to move Rice in and out of Baghdad quietly and safely — and return her to Washington “in one piece,” he says. Discarding the option of a motorcade with its risks of roadside bombs, vehicleborne improvised explosive devices and snipers, the team settled on a helicopter transport despite the danger of ISIS air “Youattacks.have no idea how much I wanted to pick up the phone, call Washington, D.C. and tell the special agent in charge: ‘This is a terrible idea and far too dangerous. I can’t do it,’” he told the ’22 graduates. “But you know what? I am an alumnus of Missouri Military Academy, and I learned right here that ‘I can’t do it’ is not an acceptable Casselle’sanswer.” team worked all night alongside the Joint Special Operations CommandLawrence Casselle ’93
Continued
His MMA ring is a reminder of the lifechanging influence the Academy had nearly 30 years ago on a young teen with a defiant “MMAattitude.taught me a lot things, but what it instilled in me that changed my life was service,” Casselle says. “What I learned at MMA was that there is no greater calling in life than service. Service comes in all different ways, both in uniform and as a civilian. America and the world … need both. Remember this: ‘To serve is to lead.’”
‘To serve is to lead’ Casselle’s career path continued its climb in postings around the world — United Arab Emirates, Afghanistan, Belize. He returned to the United States in 2014 to serve as branch chief for Overseas Protective Operations, moving up two years later to deputy director of counterintelligence for the Bureau of Intelligence and Research. He served a year on the National Security Council as director for counterterrorism. After earning a master’s degree from the Dwight D. Eisenhower School for National Security and Resource Strategy, Casselle assumed his current position as chief of staff for the Bureau of Diplomatic Security.
Casselle2019.inthe White House.
The Eagle30 to figure out where the enemy had reached previous successes and where the team could modify the air routes while adding additional protective measures to carry out the mission. And they did. “We made it happen,” Casselle says. “I guarantee you, it was the most hair-raising helicopter ride you could imagine, but we accomplished our mission. Secretary Rice was able to conduct diplomacy securely on behalf of the United States.”
ALUMNI Casselle meets with a senior Iraqi security forces general in November
Every stop on Casselle’s professional journey has been marked by one constant — his MMA ring. “My MMA ring took me to Hampton University and from there to Fort Benning, Georgia, as America’s newest second lieutenant of infantry,” he says. “My MMA ring took me to Fort Hood, Texas, as an infantry officer in the 1st Calvary Division and to Belize in Central America, where the teams that I led captured close to 40 international fugitives. My MMA ring took me to Baghdad, Iraq, and to the White House, where there is no higher place in America to serve at the seat of global power in the world.”
HasMembershipItsPrivileges Lifetime Member — $350 No yearly Alumni Association fees for life Maroon Lifetime Member — $500 No Alumni Association fees and $25 off a Senior Walk brick Gold Lifetime Member — $750 Lifetime Member and Maroon Member benefits, Homecoming lunch and alumni company T-shirt fees waived 1889 Lifetime Member — $1,889 Lifetime Member, Maroon Member and Gold Member benefits and 10 percent off QM purchases during Homecoming weekend In addition, alumni referral of cadets corresponds to Alumni Association membership status. If an alumnus refers… 2 cadets — Maroon Lifetime Member 3 cadets — Gold Lifetime Member 4 or more cadets — 1889 Lifetime Member Any alumnus who makes a cadet referral that results in an enrolled cadet will automatically become a Lifetime Member of the Alumni Association. BECOME AN MEMBERASSOCIATIONALUMNILIFETIMETODAY!
“Even from the first year, they’re surrounded by other young men as leaders,” says Capt. Joseph Balvanz, JROTC instructor. “As a result, it breeds confidence. They see boys their same age or near their same age, maybe from similar cultural backgrounds or economic means, and they see them executing. They see it’s not about where you come from or what your last name is. It’s about how you perform as a leader and if you’re willing to put yourself out there and be a mentor to younger men.” Developing Leadership and Citizenship
EDUCATION JROTC —
Army JROTC is a core program at Missouri Military Academy.
The goal of the cyber pilot program, developed by the Office of the Secretary of the Army (Manpower and Reserve Affairs), Army Training and Doctrine Command and U.S. Army Cadet Command, is to expand the science, technology, math and engineering curriculum for JROTC programs around the country. Because of the intended academic rigor involved, students could earn AP or honors-level credit for the courses, and the program would last all four years the students are involved in JROTC.
Initially established at MMA in 1917, JROTC is an important part of MMA’s academic program and leadership training. A priority program at the Academy, JROTC involves every MMA cadet.
The U.S. Army has announced plans for a new cybersecurity education program designed for the high school Junior Reserve Officer Training (JROTC) corps, and Missouri Military Academy is one of 10 schools selected to participate in the pilot program.
The Eagle32
MMA Fusileers Drill Team
The 133rd Missouri Military Academy Corps of Cadets, led by Battalion Commander Michael Machary-Pagan ’22, executed the 2022 Army Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (JROTC) Program of Accreditation (JPA) on April 8, earning a near-perfect score of 98.3.
EDUCATION Continued
Missouri Military Academy 33
Tyrone Middleton represented the 3rd Brigade JROTC Command for the 2022 JPA. The triennial inspection was supported by University of Missouri (MU) Professor of Military Science and Leadership (PMS) LTC Tara Bradley and University of Missouri Senior Military Instructor SFC Bradley Williams. In addition, eight college senior ROTC cadets from MU and two senior ROTC cadets from William Woods University conducted barracks inspections and observed the honor platoon and color guard performances. “Our annual JPA inspection holds us accountable for maintaining a high-quality Army JROTC program — a leadership program integrated into every aspect of MMA life,” Geraci says. “Through this outside review, we ensure that we meet the standards for Army JROTC and uphold them with excellence.”
What Is JROTC? JROTC is a federal program sponsored by the United States Army aimed at teaching middle and high school students the importance of citizenship and leadership. The Leadership Education Training (LET) curriculum emphasizes life skills, scholarship, personal management, health and wellness, physical fitness, finance, executive functions and most importantly, leadership. At MMA, those formative goals shape the JROTC experience. Whether it’s marching together, sharply dressed in uniform, to the dining hall at 0700 or vying for leadership positions within their classes, companies and extracurricular activities, cadets in JROTC are honing skills that enable them to take command of their education and future careers. National studies indicate that students in JROTC consistently perform above average in terms of GPA and standardized test scores. At MMA every cadet is a member of the corps of cadets and required to take Army JROTC. The MMA Corps of Cadets functions as a leadership laboratory, supported by the JROTC program. “Army JROTC is a high-quality program that is integrated into every aspect of daily activities at MMA,” says MMA President Brigadier General Richard V. Geraci, USA (Ret). “Our staff, faculty and coaches are expected to understand and support the JROTC program to include the extracurricular activities. JROTC clearly enhances the MMA military educational model with emphasis on structure, selfdiscipline and accountability.”
An example of MMA’s excellence in military leadership, structure, discipline and class, Fusileers team cadets compete in the following categories: Armed Regulation Drill, Unarmed Regulation Drill, Armed Color Guard, Unarmed Color Guard, Armed Exhibition and Unarmed Exhibition.
The emphasis on excellence is clear in MMA’s nationally ranked JROTC programs, including the Fusileers Drill, Raiders and Colonels Rifle teams.
A Model of Excellence
The Army was specifically interested in MMA, among other schools across the nation, as a site for the cyber pilot program due to the Academy’s diverse student population, facilities and information technology infrastructure. JROTC is not intended to facilitate recruitment into the Army; it instills values and character traits that resonate across numerous professions, including information technology (IT). The IT skills and certifications cadets achieve will provide them with opportunities in the computer science and technology career fields — in government and private sectors alike — and support their pursuit of higher level technology degrees after graduation.
EDUCATION
Cadets gain discipline and control through target shooting with the Colonels Rifle team, which brings with it a long history of success, with cadets making it to the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit Sectional Qualifier. Following the 2022 JROTC National Championship competition, the MMA Colonels Rifle team ranked seventh nationally among all Army JROTC programs across the nation. A total of 2,178 JROTC cadets from across the United States, Europe and the Pacific competed for the national title March 17-19 in Camp Perry, Ohio. Cadets Marco Afane, Rene Garcia Garza, Lance Newland, Blake Morais and Ethan Zinzer represented the 2022 Colonels Rifle team. Raiders Team The MMA Raiders team trains for regional and nationally sanctioned Raiders competitions. The training for the militarystyle
Growing as Leaders Leadership training is one of five elements of MMA’s 360° approach to education, along with academic excellence, character development, personal motivation and physical development, allowing its impact to be felt at all levels of the cadet experience. By the time cadets reach high school, JROTC raises the bar. “JROTC is a program designed to make better citizens, and in doing so, a lot of what we talk about is leadership,” Balvanz says. “As far as the JROTC curriculum, a full third of it is designed specifically to enhance leadership development.”
The MMA Raiders put forth an impressive effort at the U.S. Army National Championships Nov. 6-7 in Molena, Georgia. Following the twoday competition, the MMA team ranked 19th overall out of 30 teams.
President Geraci (left) and JROTC instructor CPT Balvanz present John Latenser ‘22 with a commendation for outstanding JROTC service in May 2022.
The Colonels JROTC Raiders compete in the state championship meet held at MMA in October 2021.
Whether it’s through innovative courses like the new cyber pilot program, national competitions or on-campus interactions with their fellow cadets, Balvanz says it’s his hope that cadets learn during their time at MMA that where they come from does not define them — rather, it’s their words and actions that show who they are. “I hope they learn that leaders walk the walk, and we talk the talk,” he says. “And I hope when our cadets look at themselves after their time at MMA that they see a respectful, honest, young leader — a young man who carries himself with pride and presents himself in a manner that would be suitable of a young gentleman and, through his own hard work and discipline, is motivated in the opportunities that are opened before him.”
Rangercollegiate-leveliscourse.bridgeCourse,(PTT)PhysicalChallenge5Kcadetscomraderybuildscompetitionteamworkandamongourandincludesaroadmarch,RaiderCourse,TeamTestandGauntletaone-ropeandobstacleThecompetitionaprecursortotheROTCChallengeCompetition.
The Eagle34 At the 2021 National High School Drill Team Competition (NHSDTC) — competing in the U.S. Army Drill National Championship and the All Service Drill National Championship — MMA’s Fusileers placed first in the nation in Armed Regulation at the All Service Nationals Master Level and first in the nation for Armed Color Guard for both the All Service Nationals Master Level and the U.S. Army Drill National Championship. In 2022, facing tough competition against approximately 70 schools and roughly 1,500 cadets, the MMA Fusileers finished fourth in the nation in the Armed Masters division. Cadet Michael Machary-Pagan, a high school senior from Lake St. Louis, Missouri, earned first place in the nation for armed commander. Cadet Rene Garcia Garza, a high school senior from Cadereyta Jimenez, N.L., Mexico, earned first place honors in the armed individual drilldown competition. Colonels Rifle Team
MMA Director of College and Career Placement, William G. Roundey Jr.
Triumph in Life College and career guidance at MMA for long-term success. EDUCATION
Continued
As one of the top military boarding schools in the United States, Missouri Military Academy combines structure, selfdiscipline and accountability with focused college and career planning to create an atmosphere focused on scholarship and long-term success for our graduates. At all grade levels, college preparedness is a key focus at the Academy, as cadets go beyond preparing academically for college coursework to learn nitty-gritty details such as the application process, financial aid, finding scholarships, career planning and more. Year after year, MMA celebrates 100% acceptance into college for graduating seniors. MMA’s Class of 2022 was offered more than $4.1 million in college scholarships, and 100% of the class was accepted to more than 40 different colleges and universities around the world.
Step 1: Identify personal interests. Through tools, assessments and one-one-one conversations, we learn about each cadet’s interests, abilities and values. What are their career interests and goals? Do they have any special skills or talents? What are their values — do they want to make a lot of money, or do they value their time more? Do they desire independence and flexibility in their schedule, or are they looking for more structure and routine?
MMA’sPlacement.strategicplan
“MMA helps prepare cadets for college and other postsecondary plans by offering them a rigorous academic curriculum and providing them with leadership instruction and opportunities to practice and develop those leadership skills,” says William G. Roundey Jr., MMA Director of College and Career
Missouri Military Academy 35
includes objectives to increase college scholarships and the dollar amounts awarded, receive standardized assessment results that meet or exceed state and national averages and continue to grow the dual-credit Triumph Program, offered in partnership with William Woods University. One-On-One College and Career Planning “In order to graduate at MMA, in addition to meeting our academic graduation requirements, each senior is required to apply to at least six colleges and be accepted to at least two schools,” Roundey says. “Enlistment in a branch of the armed services may count as one ‘school.’”
This guarantees that cadets have thoroughly explored their collegiate options and have a solid, viable plan after they graduate. Every cadet is given individual time with a college and career guidance counselor who helps them through a seven-step college and career planning process.
LEFT: Michael Polaschek ‘24. RIGHT: A group of MMA faculty, staff and members of the Class of 2022 display their chosen colleges or alma maters in celebration of college T-shirt day.
EDUCATION
• Pre-ACT testing for sophomores
Step 3: Identify training: Most career options require additional training. Once we have helped cadets identify a career they are interested in, it is time to figure out how they will get there. We start building a tangible roadmap for their future. We help cadets identify the type of environment they want to receive their training in. We challenge them to think about things they might not have considered, such as: How big of a school do you want to go to? How far away from home do you want to be? What programs are available at that school? Do you want to participate in college athletics, fraternities or other activities? Once they have a good handle on the type of school they would like, they begin researching for colleges that match their preferences.
• Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) testing
Step 2: Identify career interests. Next, we guide cadets to learn about careers. Many cadets have an idea of what they want to do “when they grow up,” but they don’t always have an accurate perception of what their chosen career entails. Our cadets are given an assignment for career exploration research. Through this assignment, they learn more about the day-to day tasks of a job, what the work environment is like, how much money the career makes, what training is required for that job and more.
All cadets receive an additional letter of recommendation from MMA’s college and career guidance counselor. At this time, and if necessary, cadets will write their college entrance essays. All senior cadets must apply to their schools, as well as complete the Common App, by Thanksgiving.
• PSAT testing for juniors
MMA prepares cadets for postsecondary plans through…
• Individual meetings with juniors and seniors to discuss career and college plans
The Eagle36
Step 6: Financial aid: Financial aid, perhaps, is one of the more complicated steps in the college process, but MMA aims to help cadets find a way to complete college with as little debt as possible. MMA works with cadets to identify means for them to pay for their college choices. All cadets, including international students, begin by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FASFA). If needed, they also complete the College Scholarship Service Profile (CSS Profile). These applications require parent involvement and can be complicated for both parents and cadets. Any questions about the process can be directed to MMA’s college and career office at any time. Our cadets are also given information and resources to find additional funding, such as scholarships, grants, loans and more.
• Individual meetings with cadets (grades 8-11) to discuss graduation progress and course selections
• ACT and SAT testing and prep for all cadets
Step 7: Select a school. Many MMA cadets are accepted to multiple colleges. They are then instructed to have a serious discussion with their families, make their decision and begin planning for their move when they graduate from MMA.
Step 4: Visit the college. Every cadet is encouraged to visit colleges that they are interested in and to speak with college representatives who visit MMA. Cadets receive coaching on questions to ask college admissions counselors.
Step 5: Begin applying. While cadets are working through steps 1-4, they are also preparing for and collecting necessary materials to begin the college application process. Senior cadets are required to complete the ACT and are given multiple opportunities to receive ACT training. They build their resumes, which are buffed with mandatory extracurricular and community service time, and request letters of recommendation from their instructors.
The College Triumph Program Cadets can get a head start on college by working toward an associate degree through the College Triumph program. MMA partners with William Woods University to give cadets a true academic college experience as they learn from WWU faculty and take dual-credit classes on the MMA and WWU campuses. MMA college courses reduce a cadet’s cost and time in college, post-high school. As cadets apply to college, the Triumph courses demonstrate to top colleges and universities their ability to successfully complete college-level work. Naviance MMA uses Naviance, a special digital software platform, to help cadets — starting in middle school — plan their futures and maximize their academic success. Available through exclusive portal access or a downloadable app, Naviance provides such support as ACT and SAT test prep, guidance through the college admissions process, career exploration, resume building, scholarship searches and applications, interpersonal skills development and more. Naviance allows MMA staff to identify each cadet’s strengths, interests and postsecondary goals. It also enhances the effectiveness and understanding of our college career counselor so they can provide the best possible advice and resources while cadets are applying to colleges. Through assigned weekly tasks, Naviance optimizes cadet success in the classroom. Their progress is tracked and evaluated in terms of strengths and weaknesses to help faculty cater to each cadet’s needs. A wide variety of programs are offered to cadets on Naviance, such as: ACT and SAT prep; curriculum lessons; E-Docs for electronic delivery of transcripts or other documents for college applications; career exploration; resume building; scholarship searches and applications; and college, career and life-readiness curriculum.
Class of 2022 graduate Michael Henderson received an Army ROTC scholarship to Arkansas State University, valued around $49,000 over four years.
EDUCATION
ACT Prep At MMA The ACT is a college entrance exam that most colleges and universities use for the college admission process. At MMA, we require all 11th- through 12th-grade cadets to take the ACT a minimum of one time, but they are given multiple opportunities to take it again to improve their score. In addition to offering ACT testing on campus, we host an annual ACT Boot Camp Weekend, which has shown dramatic results in improving test scores. On average, a cadet who attends the camp will improve his score by 3-7 points, which represents a 30-40% percentile point jump. In addition to using an ACT score for admission decisions, most colleges and universities will use ACT scores to award scholarship money.
MMA staff is trained for ACT prep. In 2019, several administrators and department chairs attended an ACT conference in Kansas City, where they learned about test preparation and how each department can incorporate ACT content into daily instruction and practice it within the classrooms. ACT resource books have been implemented in classrooms across Cadetsdepartments.cansign up for the ACT by emailing William Roundey, Director of College and Career Placement, at missourimilitaryacademy.com.william.roundey@
Congratulations to our recent graduates, the Class of 2022, and thank you to our Class of 2022 cadets who have signed on for military service following their MMA high school graduation: Dillon Nicholas Schuh, Gavin Quinn Roberts, Colin Richard Beck, Kevith Ryan Sangster, Nathaniel Charles Lockett and Jack Stalnaker.
Postsecondary Student Success
Missouri Military Academy 37 “My goal for each cadet is for them to find the right school for their plans and needs,” Roundey says.
Football A former Marine, new head football coach Robert Rosenbaum is working to establish a competitive, winning culture that attracts cadets and teaches more than physical skill. The team focus on leadership and character development aligns with the Academy’s core “Footballvalues.
MMA Sports Preview
teamwork and comradery between cadets.
Returning cadets expected to help lead the fall 2022 Raiders team include Cadets Gabriel Iglesias Osorio, Brett Miles, Ryan Miles, Gabriel Ontiveros, Ian Robison, Lucas Sydlewski, and Samuel Way.
Goodwin said they will aim to compete at their highest level, at every opportunity. “We must identify ourselves as a team that will outwork opponents and not settle to be second best,” Goodwin said. Colonels Soccer is scheduled to compete against some new schools this fall, which gives the players a chance to test their abilities. JROTC Raiders The JROTC nationally sanctioned Competitioncollegiate-levelismanconductedstyleCompetitionRaidersisamilitary-competitionwithaneight-team.ThecompetitionaprecursortotheROTCRangerandbuilds
Colonels Fall
The MMA Raiders annually compete in national competition in November in Molena, Georgia.
is a team sport that can provide so much for young athletes, so we are determined to build our program numbers so that we may impact as many young men as possible,” said Rosenbaum. “We want to produce good football players, but more importantly great people.”
Soccer “We want to be a difficult team to play against, both on the attacking side of the ball and as we defend,” said head soccer coach Elliot Goodwin. “We must show discipline across all areas and use that to our advantage in the face of adversity.”
ATHLETICS
The Eagle38 Through high school (varsity and junior varsity) and middle school athletics, MMA cadets develop leadership and teambuilding skills, improve health and coordination, increase self-confidence and discipline and reduce stress through a fun outlet to release energy. No one sits on sidelines — All cadets participate in athletics. MMA fall season sports include football, soccer, JROTC Raiders, cross-country and swimming and diving.
Each year, the Raiders strive to get stronger and improve their national standing. In 2021, they ranked 19th at the competition.
ATHLETICS
McManus anticipates the team’s returners will show great strides with dropped times and improved techniques, and he looks forward to new cadets joining them. “It is great to see the natural talent cadets bring to the table and the confidence they can build in themselves as athletes,” he said.
Swimming and Diving Coach Matthias McManus expects veteran swimmers to instill the team’s “give it your all” attitude to new team members this year. The diving team, led by Coach Tori Webber, looks to grow following their inaugural season at MMA last year.
The team aims to qualify for state competition this year. The past two years, the team was hundredths of seconds away from making state. To reach that goal, McManus said they will focus on leadership skills and responsibility, both in and out of the water.
Cross-Country “I’m expecting a very solid and competitive season this year,” Coach Ryan Nowlin said. Senior cadet, All-State placer and school record holder Bryson Powell will lead a strong group of returning varsity runners including junior Ryan Miles and a pair of sophomores, Malachi Imrie and Geraldo Quiroga. On Sept. 7, MMA will host its first cross-country competition on the Academy’s 288-acre campus. Alumni, parents and friends of MMA are encouraged to attend.
Missouri Military Academy 39
MMA Colonels Athletics achieved record-breaking goals during their successful 20212022 season. placing fourth in the state for tennis to winning first place at the powerlifting nationals to cadets being named to the Missouri Independent All-State Football team, MMA cadets represented the Academy well with their impressive athletic achievements.
Raiders
• MMA Band Corps, Superior Rating 2nd in State
From
2021-22
The Eagle40 Cross-Country • Bryon Powell, All-District, All-State Soccer • Michael Weaver, All-District, All-Region • Marco Afane, All-District • William Cash, All-District Football • Jeremy Ansel, Missouri Independent All-State • Telmen Nasanbat, Missouri Independent All-State • Gabriel Canonico, Missouri Independent All-State • Weselly Lauderdale, Missouri Independent All-State Basketball • Jeremy Ansel, All-Tournament Belle, AllTournament Calvary, All-District Wrestling • Noah Johnson, All-Conference • Tyler Harris-Avery, All-Conference • Skyler Hineman, All-Conference • Weselly Lauderdale, All-Conference • Ryan Miles, All-Conference • Lucas Sydlewski, All-Conference Tennis • Simon Way, Doubles District Champion, Doubles Sectional Champion • Samuel Way, Doubles District Champion, Doubles Sectional Champion • Nathan Dempsey, Doubles District Runner-up, Doubles Sectional Champion • Jose Anguiano, Doubles District Runnerup, Doubles Sectional Champion • Gorka-Aitor Yarte-Zertuche, Singles District Champion, Singles Sectional Champion • Luis Orozco, Singles District Runner-up, Singles Sectional Runner-up • MMA Tennis Team, 4th in State Baseball • Seth Straka, 2nd Team All-District • Luke Wolf, Honorable Mention AllDistrict Rifle • Lance Newland, 9th in Nation • MMA Rifle Team, 7th in Nation Track and Field
• Lucas Sydlewski, Solo and Ensemble, Gold Rating
• Nathaniel Espinoza, 2022 MWPBA Junior Solo Piping Champion
• Gabriel Canonico, All-District, State Qualifier, 15th in State
• MMA Choir Corps, Superior Rating 2nd in State
• Adam Swenson, 2022 MWPBA Junior Solo Piping Championship, second place Athletic and Activities Honors
• Bryson Powell, All-District, State Qualifier, 10th in State Fusileers Drill Team
• Michael Machary-Pagan, Drill Team Commander 1st in Nation
• Rene Garcia Garza, Individual Drilldown Competition 1st Place
• Justyn Diagle, Solo and Ensemble, Silver Rating Bagpipes
• MMA Fusileers Team, Armed Overall 4th in Nation, Armed Regulation 3rd in Nation, Armed Color Guard 4th in Nation, Armed Exhibition 5th in Nation
• Parker Woodruff, Individual Drilldown Competition 2nd Place
• Bryson Powell, State Ultimate Raider 1st Place Music
ATHLETICS
Missouri Military Academy 41 MMA cadets need your support. Your gift to the Missouri Military Academy annual fund helps strengthen the bonds of MMA Brotherhood and ensures the Academy thrives. Your gift matters to the MMA Brothers of yesterday, today and Maketomorrow.a gift online at missourimilitaryacademy.com today.
The Eagle42 SUMMER AT MMA
Campers
During summer 2022, MMA leadership,militaryMMAsupportivedevelopstepMMA-sponsoredforstudentsapproximatelyhosted1,500andcamperssummerprograms.summerprogramschallengeboystooutsidetheircomfortzones,improveself-esteemandprideintheirabilities.Campersarehostedinasafe,environment,well-supervisedbyexperiencedstaffandcounselors,whichincludeteachersandveterans.Campsaredesignedtoimpartvaluesofgoodcharacter,self-disciplineandteamwork.
StrongSummer find fun and growth through MMA summer programs
Missouri Military Academy 43
The Academy also annually hosts the Miss Missouri competition.
Helping boys hone academic abilities, learn good study practices and build self-esteem and confidence, Summer Academy is a fourweek residential or day camp experience with two summer school tracks: the Middle School Program (grades 7-8) and the High School Program (grades 9-12). MMA’s Confidence Camp is a one-week residential camp for boys ages 8-11. This year, due to an increase in demand, MMA offered three separate one-week sessions, up from two sessions held in MMA’s2021. two-week Leadership Camp for ages 12-17 utilizes physical training, fun and challenging activities and team building to help boys gain confidence and leadership skills, learn to work together and make lifelong friends. Due to high demand, Leadership Camp 2022 reached capacity in late April. Interested families are encouraged to inquire and apply early for 2023. As a day camp option for local boys and girls, MMA’s Equestrian Camp gave young enthusiasts experience riding and caring for horses. Campers will enjoy 2.5 hours of instruction each morning, which consists of daily trail rides through MMA’s beautiful 288-acre campus and learning different western horsemanship techniques, such as saddling, mounting, walking and galloping, along with other important horse management skills such as safety, grooming and handling. In addition to MMA-sponsored programs, the Academy also hosts residential summer programs for the Army JROTC Junior Cadet Leadership, Civil Air Patrol, the Diocese of Jefferson City’s Aquinas Academy and other organizations, including athletic groups such as martial arts and wrestling camps. Underway on campus beginning in early June, these programs utilize the Academy’s academic, athletic and outdoor facilities.
SUMMER AT MMA
The Eagle44 Join us for Homecoming/Alumni Weekend September 30 - October 2, 2022 Friday morning “FOREver MMA” — annual Alumni Association Golf Tournament at Arthur Hills Golf Course Friday afternoon Tri-Military Shoot-out with Kemper and Wentworth alumni Friday evening Alumni BBQ Saturday morning Battalion/Alumni Review, Drilldown and Fusileers Drill Team Exhibition Annual Alumni Meeting and Lunch Saturday afternoon Calvert Baseball Field Dedication Alumni vs. Cadets Softball Game Saturday evening Sunset Silver Taps Ceremony Alumni Recognition and Awards Dinner and Dance Sunday Memorial Chapel Service Farewell Brunch (proceeds support the 1889 Scholarship Fund) Campus Tours MissouriMilitaryAcademy.org
Missouri Military Academy 45 In 1889, the community of Mexico, Missouri, had a vision. They wanted a local academy with classical education for boys, a standard of academic excellence and learning with emphasis on discipline. Through their efforts and vision for the Academy’s potential, Missouri Military Academy came to be. MMA and its cadets continue to thrive today through the support of donors. MMA will celebrate Founders’ Day on Nov. 22. Support our mission for today’s cadets. Become an 1889 Scholarship Fund supporter today. Make a difference. Please give at bit.ly/3G9pt3k or scan QR code. MM A MI SS OURI MILI TA RY ACADEMY
The Eagle46 2021-22 Alumni Association Board of Directors, Officers and Voting Members Thank you to these alumni and supporters for their MMAdevelopmentandofgenerousleadership,supporttheAcademycontinuedoftheBrotherhood. Officers and Voting Board Members Gregg Center ’91, President Jason Falbo-Gwinn ’88, President-Elect Jarrod Magee ’97, Vice President Kurt Bilsel ’81, Secretary Steve McDavid ’97, Director of Class Clay Grant ’88. Treasurer Agents Rob Farnam ’84, Ex-Officio Ricardo Uriegas ’91 Jose Bours ’94 Heinz Leigh ’99 Eric Martinson ’96 Garrett Stockum ’87 Non-Voting Members Greg Holten ’88 Larry Wylie ’88 Jorge Yarta-Sada ’89 Mike Misemer ’89 John Davis ’92 Scott Hamilton ’01 Kwakou Casselle ’93 Nicholas Zippman ’98 Meng Shixuan ’08 AJ Vassen ’07 Scott Szopinski ’04 Brenton Stuehmer ’97 Hunter Jenkins ’85 Ian Wolfe ’91 Manuel Obregon ’94 Members at Large Pedro Portilla ’82 Tod Thompson ’88 Auxiliary Jennifer Magee Amy Obenshain Barb GinaKaseyJentrieFalbo-GwinnMcDavidSzopinskiStockum
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Missouri Military Academy 47 UpdatesAlumni Share your news. Complete the alumni update form at orMMA-Alumni-Updatebit.ly/scantheQRcode. ALUMNI UPDATES
George Heimos ’78 lives in St. Louis, Missouri. Todd Creviston ’82 lives in Barrington, Illinois. Scott Riech ’84 lives in Springfield, Illinois. Reach him at scott9571@comcast.net.
Frank Sierra ’58 John Ellis ’63 Harry H. Hoyt ’65 Dana Dabney ’69
John Ellis ’63 lives in Atlanta, Georgia. Reach him at jwe5@msn.com.
James Kufdakis ’72 lives in West Palm Beach, Florida. Reach him at jkufdaki@ gmail.com.
John Speicher ’75 lives in Clive, Iowa. Reach him at johnspeicher@hotmail.com.
Harry H. Hoyt ’65 lives in Providence, Texas. Reach him at mma65@sbcglobal.net. Philip Russell ’68 lives in Dallas, Texas. Reach him at prussell501@yahoo.com.
Timothy Gillespie ’74 lives in Orange, California. Reach him at timbodid@yahoo. com.
Frank Sierra ’58 lives in Woodstock, New York. Reach him at commandercondor@ yahoo.com.
Robert Keagle ’74 lives in Hendersonville, North Carolina. Reach him at bobkeagle@ gmail.com.
Dana Dabney ’69 lives in Hawthorn Woods, Illinois. Reach him danadabney50@gmail.com.at Wilfred Berger ’70 lives in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Larry Smith ’70 lives in Wildwood, Florida. Reach him at iceman1698@yahoo.com.
Adam Schmitz ’15 graduated Ranger School with Class 05-22 in March 2022. Reach him at adam.b.schmitz@gmail.com. Charles Norman ’18 lives in Mexico, Missouri. Reach him at charlesnorman494@ gmail.com. Phillip Young ’18 lives in New Boston, Massachusetts. Steve McDavid ’97 was recently promoted from a U.S. Army sergeant major (SGM) to command sergeant major (CSM). Reach him at mmaalumni97@gmail.com.
LTC Luke Gosnell ’01
LTC Luke Gosnell ’01 lives in Camp Zama, APO AP, Japan. Reach him at luke_gosnell@ me.com. Krystian McKeown ’01 lives in Clarksville, Tennessee. Reach him at krystianmckeown@gmail.com.
The Eagle48 ALUMNI UPDATES
Gilbert Adams ’85 Krystian McKeown ’01 Omar Ramos ’96 Adam Schmitz ’15
Gilbert Adams ’85 lives in Weston, West Virginia. Reach him at gilbertadams@ bellsouth.net. Michael Davis Jr. ’85 lives in Fairbanks, Alaska. Kip Horstmann ’86 lives in Bettendorf, Iowa. Reach him at kip.horstmann@gmail. com. David Kionka ’87 lives in Phoenix, Arizona. Reach him at imkdj1@gmail.com. Jarrod Lewis ’87 lives in Lake Havasu, Arizona. Reach him at jarrod1245@gmail. com. Chandler Moore ’91 lives in Chandler, Arizona. Reach him at cmoore@kbpinspired. com.
Simon Barrera ’15 lives in Laredo, Texas.
Samuel C. Rutherford III ’93 lives in Auburn, Washington. James Schweickert ’94 lives in Sultan, Washington. Kyle f.p. Li ’96 lives in Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada. Reach him at likyle1@ gmail.com. Omar Ramos ’96 lives in El Paso, Texas. Reach him at omarramos@mac.com. Alexander Wilkins ’00 may be reached at alex_wilkins@hotmail.com.
In Memory of Larry Anthony (1956-2022) A valued member of the Academy who contributed much to the campus community, Larry Anthony passed away on Feb. 8, 2022. He worked in the maintenance department and served the Academy for 37 Anthonyyears.was honored and remembered on March 16 by the MMA Corps of Cadets, faculty and staff on the front campus. The Anthony family was in attendance as the corps paid tribute with a special formation in his memory. Anthony was married for 37 years to Nancy Smith. They had one son, Justin Anthony (Crystal), of Mexico, and two daughters, Regina Smith, of Mexico, and Stephanie Anthony, of the Lake of the Ozarks.
Friends and family described Anthony as humble, compassionate and dedicated to his work at the Academy.
In Memory of Maj. Samuel Gwin Mounger Jr. (1942-2022)
Mounger earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee, and was a member of Pi Kappa Alpha. He served three years in the United States Navy after completing Officer Candidate School in Newport, Rhode Island. Following his time in service, he returned to school and earned his Ph.D. in English at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, Virginia, where he met his wife, Suzanne Schwartz, of Orange County, California. Sam is survived by his wife, Suzanne Schwartz Mounger; daughter, Julia Gwin Morrison, and son-in-law, Jonathan Morrison, of Maben, Mississippi; sister, Katharine Mounger Jones of Winchester, Virginia; brother, Whitman Davis Mounger, and sister-in-law, Elizabeth Avery Mounger of Greenwood, Mississippi; and one grandchild, Jacob Taylor Morrison. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dr. Samuel G. Mounger and Katharine Davis Mounger of Greenwood, Mississippi.
Missouri Military Academy 49 ALUMNI UPDATES
It is with sorrow that we learn of the passing of our fellow MMA brothers. Through telling their stories, we remember and honor them. We are eternally grateful for the brotherhood.
Silver Taps
Beloved former faculty member Maj. Samuel Mounger passed away on April 17 following an acute illness. Mounger devoted the entirety of his professional career as an English teacher — more than 27 years — to the cadets at Missouri Military Academy.
“Larry was a selfless individual who did everything possible to support staff, faculty and cadets,” says MMA President Brigadier General Richard V. Geraci, USA (Ret). “He was a wonderful example for every employee at the Academy and had an impeccable work ethic. He will truly be missed.”
The Eagle50 1. Barnard Hall (academic building and commandant’s headquarters, includes Koster Media Center, dining hall, library, barber and college placement office) 2. Wall of Honor and Veterans Plaza 3. Ekern Cadet Health Center 4. Canteen 5. Charles R. Stribling III ’44 Memorial Statue 6. Grant Cannon 7. Maintenance Building 8. Bravo Barracks (residential hall, includes advancement and alumni office in lower level) 9. Stribling Hall (administrative building, includes president’s office, business office, admissions, cadet store, tailor) 10. Senior Walk 11. Charlie Barracks (residential hall) 12. Delta Barracks (residential hall) 13. Echo Barracks (residential hall) 14. Carter Memorial 15. Teardrop Lake 16. Commandant’s Quarters (Cates House) 17. Memorial Chapel and Albright Assembly Hall (auditorium, movie theater) 18. Natatorium (swimming pool) 19. Centennial Gymtorium (weight room) 20. Tennis Courts 21. Colonels Field (soccer field, parade ground) 22. Laundry Facility 23. Alain M. Garcia Almada ’06 Field House (JROTC headquarters, rifle range, locker rooms) 24. Footbridge to Back Campus 25. Football Field and Track 26. Stables 27. Academic Dean’s Quarters 28. Brad Calvert ’79 Field (baseball field) 29. Cortada Confidence Course 30. Flanagan Field (paintball) 31. Rappelling Tower 32. White (president’sHall residence, 3 Park Circle) 33. Faculty/staff parking Faculty housing is located on East Promenade Street. Parking 9 8 7 10 1 23 11 12 13 19 17 26 32 31 30 28 29 25 21 ▲ andobstacle3-miletrailcampsite E.JacksonSt. N.GrandSt. E.PromenadeSt. PollockRd. N.GrandSt. ParkCircle W.BoulevardSt.S.WesternSt. 33P P Campus MapMM A MI SS OURI MILI TA RY ACADEMY E.LibertySt. During business hours thoughMondayFriday, all visitors should check in at Stribling Hall. After business hours, please check in at Bravo Barracks. MMA is a tobaccofree campus. 14 2 204 N. Grand Street Mexico, Missouri 65265 missourimilitaryacademy.org573-581-1776 P 5 20 22 18 15 24 ▲N Salt River 27 16 3 4 6 P
Completed in 2017, the Cortada Confidence Course was the first phase of a project to enhance the team-building facilities on MMA’s back campus. The project was made possible by a generous donation from 2016 graduate Oscar Cortada of Barcelona, Spain, and his father, Javier Cortada, also of Barcelona.
1. Barnard Hall Dedicated October 3, 2009. Made possible by the generosity of Leslie C. Barnard Jr., Class of 1948, and his wife, Joanne N. Barnard.
A Civil War cannon used by General Ulysses S. Grant, this cannon was dedicated during MMA’s 125th annual homecoming in 2014.
29. Cortada Confidence Course
30. Flanagan Field (Paintball)
Please read to learn about the history behind Missouri Military Academy (MMA) buildings. Use the numbers below and map legend to locate each building on campus. MMA is grateful for the support of alumni, parents and friends, several of whom are honored with naming recognition on our campus.
17. Memorial Chapel Dedicated May 21, 1961. Funded by senior class gifts during the war years and support from other donors, the chapel was built in honor of fallen cadets, faculty and staff who gave their lives to protect the American way of life and our future.
Albright Assembly Hall (lower level of Memorial Chapel) — Named for Robert Albright, Class of 1949, who enjoyed a successful banking career and has given back to MMA in time and treasure. Albright served as board of trustees member, in addition to funding support for faculty and more.
14. Carter Memorial (landing area by Teardrop Lake) Dedicated to Capt. Elijah Carter, MMA quartermaster who in April 1941 drowned while attempting to save cadets who disobeyed school regulations when they entered the creek on horseback while at flood stage. This area is designated as a place of respect to honor the memory of a hero.
Dedicated in 2018 to honor Cadet Alain M. Garcia Almada ’06.
Missouri Military Academy 51
28. Brad Calvert ’79 Baseball Field Named in memory of Cadet Bradley Calvert, who attended MMA, 1971-72.
Dedicated in 2016, White Hall honors Robert M. White II, Class of 1933. White was former publisher and president of the Mexico Ledger (1945 to 1986), an MMA Aumni Association lifetime member and significant MMA donor. During World War II, White served in the South Pacific on the staff of Gen. Robert Eichelberger and Gen. Douglas MacArthur. He was a graduate of Washington and Lee University.
10. Senior Walk Reserved for seniors in recognition of their attainment as upperclassmen. New seniors are allowed on Senior Walk after they have passed the Cadet Handbook test. Underclassmen are not allowed there without permission of the senior class, with the exception of those who must perform service as assigned by the Academy.
2. MMA Wall of Honor and Veterans Plaza Honoring alumni, faculty, family, friends and staff who have served in the armed forces. Know a name that should be added? Please contact the Alumni Office.
9. Stribling Hall Constructed in 1900, originally known as the Administration Building. In 1981, the Board of Trustees renamed the building Stribling Hall as a tribute to Col. C.R. Stribling . Col. Stribling served as faculty and commandant (1920 to 1933), president (1933 to 1968), and Board of Trustees chairman (1968 to 1983). Bill Ewton ’41 Terrace (Stribling Hall Veranda) — Dedicated in memory of Bill Ewton ’41 (1922-2000) for his generosity to the Academy. After graduating from MMA, he served in the U.S. Army, graduated from Oklahoma Baptist University and founded Pioneer Insurance Agency. An MMA time capsule was placed in the terrace in 2012, to be opened in 2062.
Statue of former Academy President Col. Charles R. Stribling ’44, who spent more than 75 years in dedicated service to MMA. Dedicated in 2019, the statue was made possible by Phil Baum ’63, whose generous gift funded materials for the project, and artist Javier Campuzano ’82, who donated his time and talent.
18 & 19. Natatorium and Centennial Gymtorium
The natatorium was dedicated in 1981 and gymtorium in 1989, the centennial year of the Academy. A time capsule was placed in Centennial Gymtorium by cadets in 1988, to be opened in 2038.
23. Alain M. Garcia Almada ’06 Fieldhouse
32. White Hall (president’s residence)
6. Grant Cannon
5. Charles R. Stribling III ’44 Memorial Statue
3. Ekern Cadet Health Center Named for Dr. Peter Ekern, Academy physician for 42 years (retired in 2011).
Dedicated to Maj. Gen. Robert M. Flanagan, Missouri Military Academy’s ninth president, Flanagan Paintball Field was made possible by a generous donation from the Belton family — Tracy, Freddie and Vasily ’12 — in 2009.
Join us — September 30 to October 2 204 North Grand Street Mexico, MO www.MissouriMilitaryAcademy.org65265 MM A MI SS OURI MILI TA RY ACADEMY Mexico, Missouri • Est. MissouriMilitaryAcademy.org/summer1889 MM A MI SS OURI MILI TA RY ACADEMY
