Reveille Dec. 2022, Vol. 4, Issue 4

Alumni Association President Update

I lied to you all! In the last issue of Reveille, I said last year was my final year serving you on the MMA Alumni Association Board of Directors. It was my full intention to leave having served my year as president, but sometimes things happen. No matter who may be president, we all have hoped to leave the board in a stronger and better position than when we began. It was my vision to rewrite our bylaws to bring more stability and continuity by extending term limits to two years for the president and removing term limits for other officers to the BOD as I said my farewell. As the saying goes, no good deed goes unpunished. The voting members of the BOD, followed by the president of MMA, asked for me to serve one more year, and so you have me for one more.

With that said, I do have a few more ideas up my sleeve to improve and strengthen alumni relations with one another and Old MMA. They include getting access to online purchases for MMA and Alumni Association logoed items, building even stronger relationships with Kemper and Wentworth alumni

and a couple other projects that are just in the idea stage. (I’m always open to ideas from alumni, so don’t hesitate to reach out.)

This year’s Alumni Weekend was one for the history books. It was one of the best. We may not have had a football or soccer game, but we had one heck of a softball game between the alumni and cadets where we dedicated Brad Calvert ’79 field. Although the alumni might have taught the cadets a lesson last year, they returned the favor this year by shutting us out 2-0 and winning the Golden Bat. This is unacceptable and will be remedied next year. We also inducted some very deserving alumni into the Alumni Hall of Fame. (Click here for how to nominate a deserving candidate.)

We have a strong board of directors that serves all alumni from all over the world. It takes more than just the voting members as well. Volunteers give so much of their time, talent and treasure to the association. We have men from Mexico, Portugal and China doing amazing things. We also have a new branch within

the BOD — the auxiliary. These wives, friends, former faculty and more love MMA as much as us and give us their softer but more creative touches to much of what we are doing.

I invite anyone interested to give some of their time and talent to the Alumni Association Board of Directors. Your ideas matter and can be of great importance to growing our Alumni Association as we get more involved with MMA than we have ever been in the past. Please reach out to me or any other voting member to learn more about what we do behind the scenes.

I will once again do my best serving you as your president and look forward to what the year has in store for each and every one of us. Go Colonels!

In love and loyalty, Gregg Center ’91 

IN THIS ISSUE

Alumni Association President Update by Gregg Center ’91

Power of the Brotherhood by Rob Silbaugh

History of the Wentworth Honor Guard by Mark W. Mullenioux

MMA Celebrates Homecoming

Alumni Awards: 2022 Recognitions

Annual MO Tri-Military Shootout – Trap Shoot

FOREver MMA 2022 – Colonels on Par by Steve McDavid ’97

Revival of Homecoming by Ross Fernstrum ’47

Alumni Flotilla Invade Gasconade River by Chris Schafer ’89

Cadets in Need? by Rob Silbaugh

From the Archives

65265 Riders Slay the Dragon by Chris Schafer ’89

Strike Up the Band by Venustiano Reyes ’88

Passion Projects by Chris Schafer ’89

Thank You Stribling Statue Sponsors

Alumni BOD Contact Information

Alumni BOD International Alumni Committee by Rick Uriegas ’91

Power of the Brotherhood

by Rob Silbaugh, Vice President for Institutional Advancement

This past Alumni Weekend, I witnessed something I have rarely seen before — it was the power of the brotherhood at MMA. When the alumni took off their rings and placed them on the table, you could feel the pride in the air. It didn’t matter whether you are from the Class of 1957 or the Class of 2022; you all shared one common theme — the power of the brotherhood.

You have achieved something so great that is often hard to describe. From an outsider looking in, this is what I see about your brotherhood at MMA: You each have character, you are accountable to one another, you rely on one another, and you give one another wisdom. It doesn’t matter if you attended MMA for one year or seven years. The common theme is that

MMA made you who you are today. Let’s look at the traits that MMA helped develop in you.

Character: MMA helped develop each of you to be a man of character — your moral discipline. You were each taught to choose the harder right than the easier wrong.

Accountability: MMA helped teach you to take ownership of what happens as a result of your choices and actions. You never blame others or make excuses for things that happen.

Reliability: When you were here at MMA, you would rely on your brothers to ensure things got done. You worked as a team to accomplish the greater good — graduating from MMA.

Wisdom: MMA taught you to try new things, talk to new people and do things a little harder, but most importantly, MMA taught you that it is OK to make mistakes in this life. It is how you respond that gives you the wisdom you need to succeed.

You all have this special bond for life. I would ask you to think about the future. Wouldn’t you want to have that bond with new cadets? Please consider supporting the 1889 Scholarship Fund. With just $18.89 a month, we can bring more cadets to the school and pass on the power of the brotherhood for generations to come. 

History of the Wentworth Honor Guard and Its MMA Ties

by Mark W. Mullenioux (WMA HS 1968, JC 1970)

August 1945. World War II has just ended. A young U.S. Army lieutenant arrives to assume the position of the ROTC assistant professor of military science and tactics at Wentworth Military Academy in Lexington, Missouri. Superintendent Col. Lester Wikoff welcomes him with open arms in a faculty meeting, lightheartedly introducing him as an MMA “spy.” The 1932 MMA graduate is Oran H. Rupert, and he is in “enemy” territory. But an incredible bond between schools begins and lasts to this day.

During the meeting, Rupe (as he likes to be called) learns the Lexington townspeople are upset about the unruly offcampus behavior of the cadet corps and want something done about it.

After the meeting, he approaches the Academy’s leadership and proposes starting an Honor Guard

composed of cadets of high scholastic aptitude and military discipline. A minor “shore patrol,” so to speak, is formed and will assist the commandant with cadet disciplinary issues by patrolling the downtown area. The Wentworth Red Dragon Honor Guard is born.

A few months later, these Honor Guard cadets would become an elite drill team under the auspices of another WWII veteran, Master Sgt. William H. Mullenioux, who had honed his drill and ceremonies experience at Lafayette High School in Saint Joseph, Missouri. His son and grandson will carry on the Honor Guard legacy when they become Honor Guard commanders in the 1960s and early 2000s.

“We need a means by which a cadet can stand tall amongst his peers,” states LT Rupert. This simple statement will positively affect hundreds of young cadets throughout the Academy’s history. The Honor Guard becomes an incubator for those who desire to attain leadership positions.

Membership involves a competitive spirit, WMA

Honor Society membership and a strong willingness to do the right thing. The Honor Guard motto — “One Bar None” — means we are number one, barring no one!

LT Rupert is held in high esteem by the Wentworth alumni as father of our Honor Guard. MMA alumni, staff and parents are invited to visit and pay respects to the “spy” at the Wentworth Museum at 100 13th St., Lexington, MO 64067 (wmamuseum.org). 

MMA Celebrates Homecoming 2022

by MMA Marketing Team

September 30 – October 1, more than 380 Missouri Military Academy (MMA) alumni, families, faculty and staff reunited on campus for Homecoming 2022, a weekend dedicated to celebrating MMA alumni.

Friday

The weekend-long alumni celebration kicked off with “FOREever MMA,” the annual MMA Alumni Association golf tournament at the Oaks Country Club. Meanwhile, MMA, Kemper Military School and College (KMSC) and Wentworth Military Academy (WMA) alumni convened at Prairie Grove Shotgun Sports in Columbia for the tri-military shootout.

More than 50 honored guests enjoyed a private cocktail party at MMA President Geraci’s quarters. Honored guests included the 50th-anniversary reunions of 1972, honor classes (years ending in 2 and 7) between 1947 and 1997 and former battalion commanders.

In the evening, MMA alumni gathered outside Stribling Hall for the annual alumni barbecue. At the barbecue, alumni voted on the best homecoming banner made by each of the cadet companies. Family and friends also voted throughout the weekend. Bravo won with 132 votes, followed by Band with 121. Chris Gentry ‘88 won the 50/50 raffle at the barbecue and donated his winnings back to the Alumni Association.

Saturday

Saturday morning started with an Academy favorite — the battalion/alumni review and drill down. The Fusileer Drill Team demonstrated their skills in an exhibition performance following the review. At drill downs, participants must execute a series of commands in proper form. Contestants are eliminated with any error, no matter how small, until only one contestant remains.

The winner of the alumni drill down was Steve McDavid ’97, and the winner of the cadet vs. alumni drill down was Cadet Gorka-Aitor Yarte-Zertuche, a senior from Portugal.

Carrying over the energy of friendly competition and comradery, alumni and cadets met on Calvert Baseball Field for the second annual cadets vs. alumni softball game. The game resulted in a cadet victory, the final score 2-0.

The rededication of Brad Calvert Field immediately preceded the game to celebrate the recent field renovations. Renovations began on the field in 2020. Phase 1 has since been completed, and the Academy is currently completing Phase 2. Improvements include the expansion of the playing field; improved irrigation; construction of home and visitor dugouts, restroom, concession stand, press box and parking lot; installation of a high-visibility backstop; plus the addition of a new chain-link fence and a new scoreboard.

In Phase 3, lights will be installed on the field. Through the generous support of alumni and friends, the Academy has raised $300,000 since 2020 for the baseball field project, working toward the goal of $850,000. We appreciate the continued support as the fundraising campaign and renovations continue.

The field is originally named for Brad Calvert who attended middle school at MMA in the early ’70s. We were honored to have Barbara Selman, his mother, in attendance for the ceremony on Saturday.

Led by choir director Christina Stout, the MMA Choir sang the national anthem during the rededication ceremony. MMA Vice President for Institutional Advancement Rob Silbaugh thanked the Baseball

Committee for their countless hours of dedication and support of the project and their active engagement of other alumni to raise support.

Silbaugh also recognized the Belknaps – Miriam, Chris, Michael and Baldur – for honoring their father, Bob Belknap, and his service to MMA with the Belknap family scoreboard. In addition, he recognized the following supporters:

• Patrick Saylor ’81

• Jason Falbo-Gwinn ’88

• Board of Trustees member Dan Erdel

• Paul Petit ’85

• Curt Kirtley ’74

• MMA Head Baseball Coach Tom Roberts

The following alumni were recognized for their instrumental roles in MMA’s baseball history.

• Dale Dye ’61

• Carl Tegtmeier ’62

• Larry Pifer ’63

• Curt Kirtley ’74

• Jeffrey Jorishie ’76

• Eleazar Vivas ’82

• Roger Priestley ’86

• Rafael Molina ’88

• John Davis ’89

• Steven “Erik” Wietsma ’89

• Gregg Center ’91

• Julio Favre ’91

• Nathaniel “Lee” Merrill ’92

• Jeffrey Moe ’92

• Cory Stuehmer ’95

• Steven McDavid ’97

• Brenton Stuehmer ’97

• Cory Richard ’04

• Scott Szopinski ’04

• Eric Gentry ’19

• Parker Woodruff ’22

• Dean Olsgrant ’82

• Trask Bradburry ’95

Left, President Geraci with CSM Steve McDavid, USA, ’97, alumni drill down winner.

Right, Cadet Yarte, cadet vs. alumni drill down winner, with Geraci.

At twilight, a Silver Taps Ceremony was held on front campus. As an announcer read the name of each MMA community member who recently passed away, the Stribling bell rang. The MMA band played “Old MMA,” and the corps of cadets gathered in formation and silent respect to remember the following:

• Wallace Beckley Jr ’48

• Thomas Bueneman ’60

• Michael Dalton ’59

• Enrique Elizondo Rivas ’80

• Charles Foley ’53

• Gerald Gamble ’48

• Robert Gregory ’76

• Christopher Greiner ’74

• Michael McPherren ’98

• Byron Mortensen ’65

• Steven Potsos ’62

• Thomas Potter ’79

• Battalion Commander Stanley Shaw ’58

• Darryl Taylor ’60

• Dr. Gregory Temple ’71

• Michael Thomas ’58

• Robert Tibbles ’57

• Robert Unnerstall ’62

• Luke Westrich ’11

From left to right, Heinz Lee ’99, Steve McDavid ’97, Gregg Center ’91, Chris Gentry ’88, MMA President Richard V. Geraci, Cadet Anthony Melick ’23, Cadet Avin Hernandez ’25 and Jarrod Magee ’97 at the Calvert Baseball Field rededication ceremony, Homecoming 2022.

• Rod Mills, father of Cadet Blake Mills ’23

• Ashley Revis, wife of Ryan Revis ’98

• Ann Scarlet, stepmother of JROTC faculty 1Sgt Christopher Scarlet

• Angelynn Schallon, mother of Cadet Gage Blanton ’23

• Stuart Silbaugh, father of Vice President for Institutional Advancement Rob Silbaugh

• Honora “Nonnie” Smith, wife of Sheldon Smith Sr. ’60

• Martha Colette Wainwright, mother of Malachi Grice ’18

Thank you to the Baseball Committee!

Committee Chair Chris Gentry ’88

Gregg Center ’91

Steve McDavid ’97

Jarrod McGee ’97 Heinz Lee ’99

Guests then moved to enjoy the Alumni Awards Dinner & Dance in Centennial Gymtorium and to recognize MMA’s newest inductees into the alumni hall of fame, legacy cadets, 1889 Scholarship supporters and the Academy’s most impactful supporters.

Sunday

On Sunday, the MMA community came together again for a nondenominational Sunday service led by MMA Chaplain Joan Cotton in Memorial Chapel and then proceeded to the Farewell Bunch — hosted by the MMA Alumni Association in support of the 1889 Scholarship Fund.

Campus tours concluded the weekend with alumni and families enjoying a tour of the barracks and back campus, including the paintball field and rappelling tower. John Green ’60 — an 80-year-old MMA alumnus — impressed everyone with his MMA spirit by rappelling down the tower. 

The Alumni Baseball Team, Homecoming 2022.

• Larry Anthony Jr., who provided 38 years of dedicated service in the maintenance department to MMA

• Dr. Samuel Mounger, who provided 27 years of dedicated service as an MMA faculty member

• Donna Bueneman, wife of the late Thomas Bueneman ’60

• Melissa Gammon, wife of Raymond Gammon ’68

• Fred Harding, father of Academic Dean Mike Harding

• Frederick Hisaw Jr., Kemper alumnus, ’45

• Leta May Hodge, daughter-in-law of the late Cpt Edward Hodge, former MMA faculty member

Alumni Awards: 2022 Recognitions

During Homecoming 2022, the Alumni Awards Dinner & Dance was held in Centennial Gymtorium on Saturday, Oct. 1. The event included recognition of legacy cadets, 1889 Scholarship supporters, alumni hall of fame inductees and alumni awards.

Legacy Cadets

Cadets who are sons, stepsons, brothers, grandsons, step-grandsons, nephews or cousins of an MMA alum who completed at least one full year at MMA, legacy cadets receive a legacy pin to recognize their family’s history at MMA. MMA was proud to recognize the following legacy cadets at the 2022 Alumni Awards Dinner & Dance:

• Cadet Nicolas Anaya Cisneros ’27, legacy of Cadet Anaya Cisneros ’25

• Cadet Michael Emminger ’28, legacy of Cadet Josiah Emminger ’27

• Cadet Gaston Gastelum ’24, legacy of Alejandro Gastelum ’17

• Cadet Nziza Gihana ’25, legacy of Ishimwe Noble ’22

• Cadet William Hughes ’27, legacy of Chase Hughes ’99

• Cadet Daniel Johnson ’25, legacy Justin Freeman ’06 and John Johnson ’99

• Cadet Humberto Junquera Garcia Luna ’28, legacy of Umberto Junquera Munoz ’86

• Cadet Emiliano Loredo ’23, legacy of Alfonso Valdueza ’89

• Cadet Matthew Pfeifer ’26, legacy of Cadet Michael Pfeifer ’25.

Hall of Fame

Each MMA Alumni Hall of Fame honoree must exemplify a strong commitment to duty, honor and achievement, personifying these MMA core values. The 2022 MMA Alumni Hall of Fame honorees included:

For Business, Entrepreneurship and Leadership:

Julio Favre-Arnillas ’92, a leader in Peru’s food production industry, specializing in pork, poultry and other protein sources.

Jeff MacLellan ’66, former Landmark Bank CEO and chairman and MMA Board of Trustees member.

For Arts & Sciences:

Randall Carver ’64, actor known for roles in movies and TV shows such as “Taxi,” “The Love Boat,” “The Six Million Dollar Man” and more.

For Distinguished Military Service:

Captain Dale Dye, USMC (Ret), ’62 decorated Vietnam War veteran, successful actor, technical adviser, radio personality, writer and founder of Warriors Inc.

Major General Judd Lyons, USA (Ret), ’80 achieved rank of general officer in the U.S. Army, Department of Defense deputy assistant secretary of defense for reserve integration.

Brigadier General Carl Tegtmeier, USA (Ret), ’62 achieved rank of general officer in the U.S. Army, former senior vice president of Commerce Trust Company in St. Louis and member of the MMA Board of Trustees.

Alumni Awards

Awards presented to MMA alumni included:

CSM Steven McDavid, USA, ’97 received the Schafer Fellowship Cup. This award is given in appreciation to the alumnus who distinguishes himself to the institution as the year’s Most Valuable Person in his role as an MMA Alumni Association board member. The recipient best typifies the ideals of character, leadership and service upon which the Academy was founded and is a model example for all alumni to follow. The award was established in 2019 and named after its first recipient, Harold “Chris” Schafer of the 1989 Centennial Class, whose dedication to MMA alumni is prominent through unwavering devotion of time, talent and treasure.

Rex Rodenbaugh ’95 received the 2022 Paul Gillette Outstanding Alumni Award. This award is given to a successful alum who is an inspiration and outstanding example for current cadets. He has shown success in life, spirit of community and support of his alma mater.

Jim Obenshain ’86 received the Eagle Talon Award for Philanthropy. He was awarded because of his generous donations and commitments to MMA’s technology. He helped create and provided the financial support for the media platform 1889 Connect, which connects the MMA community, and selflessly donated to other strategic initiatives of the Academy. 

From left to right, BG Carl Tegtmeier, USA (Ret), ’62; Randall Carver ’64; CPT Dale Dye, USMC (Ret), ’62; Cadet Battalion Commander Marco Afane’23; John Unnerstall ’64; MMA President BG Richard V. Geraci, USA (Ret); Julio Favre-Arnillas ’92; Jeff MacLellan ’66; MG Judd Lyons, USA (Ret), ’80; WO1 Paul Petit ’85. Photo taken during the Alumni Awards Dinner & Dance, Homecoming 2022.

You can make a difference in our lives.

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.

Financial support for cadets is a growing need.

Annual MO Tri-Military Shootout – Trap Shoot

Jason Falbo-Gwinn ’88 (Team Captain) Hello Brothers,

What a great time we continue to have at the annual MO Tri-Military Shootout. This year for the first time, it coincided with not only our Homecoming Weekend but also Kemper’s and Wentworth’s. I encourage you to come out and join us next year as the comradery, competition and grit are a lot of fun! You will see this in the experiences shared below from several of those who attended.

No son forget thy name!

Returning to campus at MMA is always accompanied by a bit of anxiety for me. The feelings of being a closeted gay kid on campus never seem to truly fade away despite my out and proud life that I lead today. As I sat at the coffee table in my Provincetown apartment looking at the Homecoming registration form and wondering what activities best suited me, I felt stuck on the decision between “Alumni Golf Tournament” and “Tri-Military Shootout.” Well, I don’t drink and can’t hit a golf ball to save my life, which leaves a lot to be desired with the golf tournament. But I also haven’t fired a shotgun in more than two decades, which leads me back around to that feeling of anxiety.

I left that section of the Homecoming registration blank and proceeded to book my airline ticket and hotel room. I booked my ticket giving myself a few extra days to visit family and friends in St. Louis, and while sitting at the gate inside Logan Airport in

Boston, I received a message from another alumnus (Class of ’69) asking if I was going to do the TriMilitary Shootout. I told him that I didn’t sign up and that I wasn’t planning on doing anything during that time. He quickly shot me a link and told me that today was the deadline to register, and I should do it. The old cadet habit of quickly doing as I’m told by my elders remains strong, so I signed up for the event. The day of the event, the anxiety crept back in. “You have no business doing this,” I thought to myself as I drove to the venue just outside Mexico. I pulled into the gravel parking lot, dust billowing behind my rented Toyota

to meet Kemper and Wentworth alumni as well, further cementing the brotherhood of military school alumni. What began as a ball of fear and anxiety ended up becoming a beautiful experience of friendship, camaraderie, fellowship and fun. I can’t wait to go again next year, and this time filling out the registration card will be much easier as I already know my favorite event!

James Hallam KMS ’88

First thing this morning, while drinking coffee at the Kemper Museum, I got to thinking about the annual Tri-Military Shootout that afternoon between Missouri Military Academy, Kemper Military School and College and Wentworth Military Academy. Kemper had fielded a solid team, and our group was optimistic about the day ahead, but I couldn’t help but worry that Wentworth, who has held the trophy for the last eight years, would be ready to take it home again. Upon arrival, all three military schools’ alumni associations were present, and the food was flowing. The alumni all converged at Prairie Grove Shotgun Sports for the event. It was a sunny day at a beautiful venue, and the MMA brothers were cooking burgers, hot dogs and feeding all three schools. After our safety meeting, the team forms were filled out, and the event was off and running.

The anxiety built as I walked inside and paid the registration fee and was quickly cut down to nothing as I stepped out onto the back porch to see dozens of other MMA alumni. Dana Dabney brought an extra shotgun for me to use and assured me that I would do fine and to just have a good time. I defined for myself what a “successful day” would be: hitting at least one clay pigeon and not injuring or killing anyone. I was eventually assigned to a group and handed two boxes of 12-gauge shells. I proceeded to the firing area and began to wait my turn. I yelled out, “Pull!” as the clay pigeon was released on its flight. I didn’t hit the first, second or even third one—but I did manage to hit 22/50 overall and not injure anyone, so by my own definition, it was a resounding success!

I had an absolutely wonderful time meeting fellow alums, their wives and getting an opportunity

This year, my job was to go from station to station taking pictures and talking to alumni from all three schools, which was a lot of fun for me and zero pressure. While walking around, you could see a couple of the Wentworth “ringers” preparing to shoot, and that made me, and I am sure all the shooters, pause and watch them for a minute. They were shooting well,

Sean Gold MMA ’99

Corolla, delicately squeezing between two large pickup trucks with lift kits.

Alumni from Kemper, Wentworth and MMA came together for friendly competition in the Tri-Military Shootout on Saturday, October 1, during Homecoming 2022.

James Hallam KMS ’88 and Laura Gramlich KMS ’94

and nothing seemed different from previous events. I also noticed both the MMA shooters and a few of the Kemper shooters were having a lot of success. This made me happy, but after walking back and forth, I remained focused on the latest conversations and enjoying the day.

The event is now over. The judges are inside grading papers, so it is time to head inside and see how things are progressing. I immediately noticed a very somber look on Bill Hetzel’s face, who was judging on behalf of Wentworth. I asked Laura how it was going, and she whispered that we had won! Immediately we both glanced at Bill. I asked, “Is this true?” He said, “Yes.” I could not believe this and asked him to check the scores again. He informed me he had checked them two more times, and we indeed had won. It took every ounce of my effort to not jump up and down, but out of respect for Bill and the Wentworth Dragons, staying calm seemed appropriate. It was time to go outside and award prizes, trophies and begin the auction. It is important for me to recognize our brothers at Missouri Military Academy as they went above and beyond on the food and the first-and last-place shooting plaques, which were a lot of fun to give out.

So we gave out the first-and last-place awards and then had an auction for a very cool Tri-Military tumbler, created by brother Jason Falbo-Gwinn, which raised almost $200. It was time to announce the winner of the shootout, and as the president of Kemper Alumni Association, it gave me great pleasure to announce our school as the winner. “Kemper wins, and we did it!” To look around and see my teammates clapping with astonishment on their faces was pure joy and happiness for me. Obviously, it was hard work and practice, but it all paid off. This win set the tone for the entire old boy weekend, and all the trophies are proudly on display in the Kemper Museum. It is important to recognize the team for their efforts:

• Thom “Thatch” Johnson (captain, first place and high score)

• Mike Stepto

the year before, so it promotes personal growth. The shootout is an event that draws a span of generations of alumni, women, sons, daughters, in-laws and friends. I appreciate that I do not have to know everything, and I can ask for tips or assistance to learn what to change next round or for next year. This is an event that welcomes and encourages everyone regardless of skill level, from those who compete professionally to those who participated for the very first time. You do not have to shoot all the time, and you do not have to own your own shotgun. You just have to show up for a nominal fee, get assigned to a squad, heed the safety talk, take aim, yell, “Pull!” and fire.

• Ken Wimberely

• Mike Mehlhaff

• Johnny Kartsonis II

• Jon Swett

• Laura Gramlich

Lt Col Ian Wolfe, USAF (Ret), ’90

It has been almost 10 years since I shot trap, and what a great way to knock off the old rust with some great fellow alumni from Kemper, MMA and Wentworth! Everyone had fun with the friendly competition in such a beautiful setting. The Prairie Grove Shotgun Sports in Columbia, Missouri, was very gracious and helpful in providing us with a safe and pleasurable environment to shoot at.

As a first-time shooter at this event, it was tons of fun. I had a great time meeting alumni from other academies and spending quality time with my fellow classmates. I strongly encourage anyone with a knack for shooting, or even if it’s your first time, to join us next year.

Stephanie Carey (girlfriend of alumnus Lee Merrill ’92)

For many people October brings hunting seasons, cooler days, fall leaves, pumpkin spice lattes and trickor-treaters. For this central Missouri farm kid turned city girl, it is a highly anticipated time to represent Missouri Military Academy at the annual Tri-Military Shootout. It is reminiscent of “squirrel hunting” with childhood Red Ryder BB guns, learning to shoot with my dad on the farm and tagging along during cold fall deer seasons. This just requires a higher and faster aim.

There are so many things I love about the Tri-Military Shootout, and this year brought a new field and the addition of a cookout that helped set a relaxed tone before we internally hoped to beat Kemper and Wentworth and bring a trophy back to the halls of MMA. It was not a sport that I had ever tried until three years ago, but I have grown accustomed to attending as an MMA friend over the previous two years. Each year I hope to increase my score and shoot better than I did

One of my fondest memories this year was being next to Amy Obenshain (wife of Jim Obenshain ’86, MMA Board of Trustees member) when she hit her first trap and sharing in the moment of her achievement. By far, this is one of my favorite events of the year. When asked to share my experience at the Tri-Military Shootout, what immediately came to mind is that it is a gathering that brings together brothers, partners, family and friends from MMA, Kemper and Wentworth. It is a time for reunion with beloved friends and classmates, an opportunity to exchange memories, meet new people and all while adding a slight bit of friendly competition that honors and unites the brotherhood and tradition of three military academies.

If asked to choose what the best part of the event is, I would unequivocally say that after all the rounds are shot, the scores tallied, the awards are handed out, and then a call goes out to all to support the host academy with donations to go to a cause of their choice. For the past three years now, I have seen that call generously heard, the donation amount grows, and it always finds its way back to support the MMA cadets, to keep a brotherhood going that we all love and cherish. So how could this not be a favorite event and an experience that I look forward to seeing you at next year? 

Kemper trap shooting team. Left to right, standing, Johnny Kartsonis, Laura Gramlich, Ken Wemberly, Mike Stepto, Mike Mehlhaff and Jon Swett. Front row, kneeling, Thatch Johnson

Stephanie Carey, girlfriend of alumnus Lee Merrill ’92

Leave Your Legacy on Missouri Military Academy’s Senior Walk.

Located in the heart of campus beneath the glow of the Gold Dome, this convenient and central location is within steps of Stribling Hall, Memorial Chapel, Barnard Hall and the 125th Anniversary Cannon.

Net revenues from brick sales will help support the cherished traditions of MMA, which include the Alumni Scholarship Fund to help other young men realize their potential through the MMA experience. MMA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and your contribution is tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.

For more information about the Senior Walk Bricks, scan the QR code or contact Cassandra Brooks at Cassandra.Brooks@MMA-email.com or call 573-581-1776 ext. 222.

FOREver MMA 2022

— Colonels on Par Contest Winners

By Steve McDavid ’97

The 2022 Missouri Military Academy Alumni Association FOREver MMA Golf Tournament once again marked the start of Homecoming as five teams, along with supporters, came together to spend time among friends, enjoy the warm fall weather and try to go big on the links. Players were greeted to the course by MMA Alumni Association board and auxiliary members. They prepared for the day with a breakfast sponsored and prepared by Ricky Uriegas ’91 and enjoyed morning cocktails provided by Jarrod ’97 and Jennifer Magee.

While alumni and friends enjoyed the warm weather and camaraderie on the course, MMA Alumni Association Board of Directors members Kurt Bilsel ’81 and Jarrod Magee ’97, along with MMA

Alumni Association Board of Directors Auxiliary members Jennifer Magee, Jentrie McDavid and Kasey Szopinski worked diligently behind the scenes to get the golfers out on the course, prepare lunch for the players and supporters and keep players well hydrated with the beer cart sponsored by Gregg Holten ’88.

For the second year in a row, Team Weapons of Grass Destruction, composed of Jeff Brummet ’71, Paul Petit ’85, Richard “Buster” Hall ’72 and Rick Dehlinger ’93, took the win, and in what is becoming an annual rivalry, Team Hustlers, composed of Mark Thomas ’92, Rex Rodenbaugh ’95, Sanders Roth ’04, and Cory Richard ’04 once again fell short of the crown in the second-place spot.

A newcomer team composed of Evan Trump ’93, Christopher Ware ’92, Tisha Grady and Shawn Spencer came in last place this year. However, they did not walk away empty handed as each member of the team was awarded a Broad Side of the Barn plaque after demonstrating

Men’s Longest Drive: Cory Richard ’04

Women’s Longest Drive: Tisha Grady

Closest to Pin: Jeff Brummet ’71

Shortest Drive: Rex Rodenbaugh ’95

Best Dressed Couple: Evan Trump ’93 & Tisha Grady

Broad Side of the Barn Award: Evan Trump ’93, Christopher Ware ’92, Tisha Grady, Shawn Spencer

with their score that no one on their team is able to hit the broad side of a barn with a golf ball. We are looking forward to their return, not just for another shot at the title, but to see what our Best Dressed Couple winners — Evan Trump ’93 and Tisha Grady (photo below) — will sport for a uniform in 2023. 

If you are interested in sponsoring the 2023 MMA Homecoming golf tournament, please contact Steve McDavid ’97 at mmaalumni97@gmail.com

Evan Trump ’93 and Tisha Grady

Course Sponsors

Sanders Roth ’04

($1,500 or Higher)

Jim ’86 & Amy Obenshain

Tournament and Food & Beverage Sponsors ($1,000 or Higher)

Ricky Uriegas ’91

Rex Rodenbaugh ’95

Chris Gentry ’88

Gregg Center ’91

Steve ’97 & Jentrie McDavid

Jarrod ’97 & Jennifer Magee

Greg Holten ’88

Competition Sponsors

• Kemper Alumni Association – Closest to Pin Sponsor

• Rick Dehlinger ’93 – Men’s Longest Drive Sponsor

• Jeff & Amy Krebill (Becks Seeds) – Men’s Longest Drive Sponsor

• Class of 1997 – Women’s Longest Drive Sponsor

• Richard Cooper – Hole-In-One Sponsor

• Steve ’97 & Jentrie McDavid – Shortest Drive Sponsor

• Hunter Jenkins ’85 – Broad Side of the Barn Award

• MMA Alumni Association Board of Directors – Best Dressed Couple Sponsor

Hole Sponsors

• The Class of 1981

• The Class of 1989, “The Centennial Class”

• Erik Wietsma ’89

• Heinz Leigh ’99

Revival of Homecoming

By Ross Fernstrum ’47

You may not recall this, but around 1945 MMA annual homecoming became a little raucous when a few alcoholdrinking alumni chose to invade one of the barracks after hours in order to party a little longer with their old buddies as well as with some of the cadets.

The event was not well received by the Academy, and when the late Col. Charles R. Stribling learned of it, he summarily canceled all future homecomings. Apparently, this was not the first time for such inappropriate behavior, and it brought him to the end of his patience.

As a result, there were no homecomings in 1946 or 1947 because of the unfortunate 1945 actions of a few.

In the fall of 1947, I attended Washington University in St. Louis for what turned out to be a somewhat less than satisfactory first year of college. While there, I spent a good deal of time with MMA graduates John “Jim” O’Hara ’47, Marvin (Artie) Fishel ’47 and Jim Furla ’47, to name few. We often talked about the inexcusable events of 1945 and agreed that perhaps it was time to attempt to reinstate homecomings at our MMA. Heck, we weren’t even legally old enough to drink yet.

So, one weekend I went to Mexico to meet with the Colonel. We reviewed the events of 1945 and agreed that they were deplorable, unacceptable and that there was no place at a homecoming for such behavior.

I believe that the request, coming from a member of the Class of 1947, caried some weight in view of the known successes of our class. After all, we beat Kemper and Wentworth in football, we “invented” the Tulip Ball, initiated the MMA Athletic Association and, under the capable guidance of the late Dennis Williams, reinstituted the printing of the yearbook, Taps.

I know the Colonel was also aware of a couple of other significant events such as the Academy’s 1946 musical

presence at Carnegie Hall via the Look magazine swing band contest, along with our marching band being honored to play for a couple of gentlemen named Truman and Churchill in Fulton, Missouri, on May 5, 1946. The Class of 1947 played major roles in both of these nationally publicized events.

If granted permission to hold a homecoming in 1948, I assured the Colonel that the Class of 1947 would police the attendees and ensure that no alumni would go anywhere near the campus after sundown. He thought about it and the next day granted permission to proceed with a “controlled” homecoming in 1948. Apparently, he recognized, at the time, more than we did, the potential value in having a strong, loyal, dedicated and generous alumni organization.

In the fall of 1948, Homecoming resumed with a resounding attendance of 24 alumni, most of whom were from the St. Louis area. I was elected president of a newly organized MMA Alumni Association and, upon paying my dues, was presented with a lifetime membership card, which I continue to treasure. Yes, I still have the card. And yes, though small in attendance, the 24 alumni behaved admirably. And yes, George “Tiny” Cline ’46 probably won the manual of arms contest.

It didn’t take many more years of successful homecomings for the Academy powers to recognize the benefits inherent in keeping the alumni active and interested. As we all know, the growth has been phenomenal, and we are all also familiar with the generous giving by alumni and their affiliated companies.

I must say that I am proud to have been a member of the Class of 1947 and to have played a small part in bringing Homecoming back to MMA. To my knowledge, there has been no repetition of the unacceptable alumni behavior of 1945. We can certainly be proud to be MMA graduates and can only be forever inspired by the continuing contributions made by our Alumni Association.

And now, you know the rest of the story. 

OLD SCHOOL OF OURS

From your entrance-way to your flag-staffed dome,

You are fine, old school, you are fine;

For many a month you have been my home –

With your barracks of brick, your sloping loam;

You are mine, old friend, you are mine!

The years have rolled past in unending tide.

You have stood, old school, you have stood; And the men who passed thru you with pride Are those who have always stayed by your side –

You are good, old school, you are good!

Tho the years may pass, and we’re far away, You are ours, old school, you are ours;

Tho we leave you each graduation day

To search the whole world and find what we may, Always ours, old school, always ours!

Charles McMorris Purdy Class of 1918

In the fall of 1948, Homecoming resumed with a resounding attendance of 24 alumni.

Alumni Flotilla Invade Gasconade River

By Chris Schafer ’89

The Alumni Flotilla descended upon the Gasconade River Resort in Bourbon, Missouri, for our third annual alumni float trip Aug. 11-14. Nineteen alumni, family and friends enjoyed two days of floating, brotherhood, phenomenal food, catching up and telling stories from our time at the 65265. It wouldn’t be an alumni float trip without our day starting with the reveille being played from someone’s cell phone on full volume. It is better than waking up to banjos playing in the distance.

We had a hearty breakfast to start both float days and enjoyed perfect mid-80s weather with a slow river current. Evenings were spent around the campfire playing competitive Jenga. Our annual float trip will be entering its fourth year with no end in sight. If you are interested in going on the annual float trip, please click here to join our Facebook page.

Our discussions for next year’s float trip have already begun, and we are always open to hearing your input.

Cadets in Need? Here Are 2 Ways We Answer

By Rob Silbaugh, Vice President for Institutional Advancement

Recently, I have been asked a variety of questions by a few of the alumni regarding their donations. I wanted to provide some guidance with regard to your support to MMA and the cadets.

The “Cadets in Need Fund” was established to help those cadets who are struggling with the purchase of various items. For example, when needed, this fund has helped cadets purchase sabers and Sam Browne belts.

Additionally, funds from this account may be used by a cadet to participate in an extracurricular activity, such as horseback riding, that they wouldn’t have otherwise been able to afford. This fund may also be used to help the cadets meet a financial gap in paying their tuition bill. Any cadet who receives funding will remain anonymous to the donors.

The fund is administered by the MMA vice president for institutional advancement, with oversight by the president. The cadets need to apply for the funding and write an essay. Faculty and staff may suggest cadets in need to receive support from this fund. However, they may not promise it to anyone.

Senior class rings are also an area where cadets may need extra financial support. Each year, the Alumni Association purchases company guidons to be signed and auctioned off at the Maroon & Gold Gala to raise funds to assist with senior class rings for those cadets who cannot afford one.

The funds are in a special account, also administered by the MMA vice president for institutional advancement, with oversight by the president.

Please contact me at 573-581-1776 ext. 230 or robert. silbaugh@missourimilitaryacademy.com at any time to request the balance in either of these funds.

Please also contact me with any other questions and if you would like to support these efforts. Thank you in advance for your support of cadets in need! 

65265 Riders Slay the Dragon

by Chris Schafer ’89

Smoky doesn’t accurately capture the reality of being deep in the hollows of ancient mountains early in the morning. It is a mist that envelops your vision deep into the distance and mutes the sound as it struggles to carry an echo — such is an early morning motorcycle ride in the Great Smoky Mountains.

There is a reason why thousands of motorcyclists travel to Highway 129 that straddles the TennesseeNorth Carolina line — the Tail of the Dragon. In 11.2

miles, the road has 318 curves built from the trails of old growth forest loggers. This road, and those that surround it, are celebrated as a true test of motorcycle skills and grit.

Our crew included: Jim Arce ’83 (Chicago), Ari Zeiger ’90 (Michigan), Hunter Jenkins ’85 (Arkansas), Chris Schafer ’89, Cassandra Brooks and Bob L. Head (Mexico, Missouri). First, we met Jon Lesher ’92 and his wife, Mel, for lunch in Harrison, Kentucky, before tackling Highway 129 from the north. We stayed in the Tail of the Dragon Resort in Topoco, Tennessee, which is conveniently located in the heart of the phenomenal roads. In two full days and two half days, we tackled portions of the Great Smoky Mountain Loop, Cherohala Skyway, Million Dollar Highway, Tennessee Moonshiner, Trail of Tears and the Blue Ridge Parkway to Maggie Valley, North Carolina, to see Dale’s Wheels Through Time Motorcycle Museum.

These roads are not for the faint of heart. The two-lane narrow roads follow the contours of the Appalachian Mountains and require a motorcyclist’s full attention. We faced reducing radius curves, blind hills and corners and horseshoe turns with mountains on one side — drop-offs on the other — and no guardrails. As if the technical challenge of the road wasn’t enough, we saw the occasional 18-wheeler or RV that failed to heed the warning signs, sports cars that thought they were motorcycles, other motorcyclists of various skill levels and the visual sirens of nature’s beauty beckoning you to look at her instead of the road ahead.

Everyone kept the shiny side up and ended the ride more confident in their motorcycle skills.

In early June 2023, we will be riding the three Twisted Sisters in the Texas Hill Country, which is west of San Antonio. Then we will be attending the Republic of Texas Motorcycle Rally in Austin, Texas. 65265 Riders is open to all alumni, friends, family and faculty.

Ride Often — Ride Safe.

Join the 65265 Facebook page. 

Jim Arce ’83, Ari Zeiger ’90, Cassandra Brooks, Chris Schafer ’89, Hunter Jenkins ’85, Jon Lesher ’92, Mel Lesher and son

Become a sponsor today for MMA’s biggest event of the year.

Saturday, April 22, 2023 • Centennial Gymtorium Missouri Military Academy, Mexico, Missouri

For information, contact Vice President for Advancement Rob Silbaugh at 573-581-1776 ext. 239 or robert.silbaugh@MissouriMilitaryAcademy.com.

MI SS OURI MILI TA RY ACADEMY

Strike Up the Band!

My

musical experience at MMA

By Venustiano Reyes ’88 (artistic name Venus Rey Jr.)

I remember when I arrived at MMA. It was early September 1987. My brother and I were directed to our barracks. For me, it was Alpha Company. It was the beginning of my senior year. I was not sure what to expect. It was about 8 p.m., so I didn’t realize the beauty of the campus on that warm summer evening.

I soon noticed there was a building just for musicians: Charlie Company. I had been training myself as a musician since I was 7, and back in those days, I was 17, so I had spent a whole decade in music. I loved music so much and enjoyed performing, particularly if I played along with other musicians. The kind of music I loved most was classical — no wonder considering I was the son of a professional conductor. So the fact that there was a company just for musicians seemed like a great idea to me.

Mr. Meredith was the academic dean. I had an interview with him to see what courses I would choose: some math, biology, economics, law and government, psychology, sociology, English literature and, of course, art. I told the dean I would love to play music.

He sent me with Col. Cherches to see my music level. It was a great experience for me to work with

Col. Cherches. He was a great musician, and he saw that I could play the piano and the bass guitar. He told me about the jazz band and invited me to join. They already had a piano player, Randall Kelly ’89, who is a very gifted musician, but they needed a bass player. So I joined the jazz band.

Being in the MMA Jazz Band was an extraordinary experience in my life. It was a full big band, with sections of trombones, trumpets, saxophones, clarinets, drums, piano and bass. We all were very young, but the sound Col. Cherches achieved with us was awesome. We didn’t sound like a bunch of teenagers trying to perform but rather as a disciplined and well trained ensemble. I got involved with jazz, and I loved it.

As Col. Cherches noticed I was a good piano performer, he thought I should go off campus to take piano lessons from a teacher who lived a few blocks away. She was a lovely lady, very kind and very supportive. She helped me improved my technique as she supervised my readings of a couple of piano

Passion Projects

By Chris Schafer ’89

No matter how long you were at MMA, your rank, awards or tours received, graduate or non-graduate status, MMA was our home, and the faculty and staff were surrogates in our upbringing. We each took something away from our time at MMA, whether it was leadership skills from athletics, tips for studying or even how to tie a tie. MMA facilitated a positive environment for learning — a place where we could learn more about ourselves.

And it’s no different with the cadets in the current corps. They, too, are learning something during their MMA journey.

Sometimes it can be difficult to determine the best way to give back to MMA, such as writing a check to a directed fund, being a member of the $18.89 Scholarship Fund or by participating in Maroon & Gold. If you have a life passion that you can attribute

to your journey at MMA, I encourage you to make your donation of time, talent or treasure directly toward that passion.

If you are successful in business, consider making a directed donation to Future Business Leaders of America to cover competition fees. Say you learned precision teamwork as a Fusileer or by playing a sport — then you might wish to make a directed donation for transportation, lodging or meals. Leadership, academic and athletic summer camps can provide a level of immersion for cadets’ development outside of MMA.

Maybe you saw the value your son received in Boy Scouts and wished MMA had Scouts when you were a cadet. MMA has sponsored Troop 1889 for the past 10 years, and troop camping gear, cookware

MMA was a great experience in all aspects, but in music, it was just fantastic. It made me understand the basics of jazz and gave me so much joy performing with my classmates. I believe my career as a professional composer has one of its most fundamental roots in MMA’s music department under Col. Cherches. I feel very grateful for this once-in-a-lifetime experience. 

and costs for merit badge completions are always costs that can be deferred by directed donations. These donations are always impactful for our cadets.

You might be at a point in your life where you have some disposable time and you would like to volunteer to organize your class as a class agent, coordinating alumni in your geographic area as a regional coordinator. Joining the Alumni Association Board of Directors is another way to give back your time and talent.

No matter where you decide to direct your passion, you can make a difference. Thank you for supporting MMA. 

sonatas by Mozart and some pieces by Bartok and Poulenc. Randall Kelly and I performed four hands piano pieces together in several places near MMA.

Reyes stands with President Geraci after he was inducted into the MMA Alumni Hall of Fame during Homecoming 2021.

Ideas for directing your donation of time, talent or treasure toward your passions to enrich cadet life at MMA

Join 1889 Connect Today!

Missouri Military Academy’s private social media site for alumni, parents, friends and faculty and staff

The site provides an opportunity to network within our MMA community —

• mentor young alumni

• offer coaching, college and work advice

• share internship and job opportunities with your MMA family

In addition, 1889 Connect offers —

• a directory to connect with your MMA Brothers

• a news feed specific to the latest updates from MMA alumni and the Academy

Click here to join now.

Thank You, Stribling Statue Sponsors

Javier Campuzano ’82 created this statue, dedicated during Homecoming as a gift to the Academy with the help of Phil Baum ’63. The statue memorializes Col. Charles R. Stribling III, who passed away in September 2017. He spent more than 75 years dedicated to MMA and its mission, first as a cadet and then as an alumnus, teacher, administrator and chairman of the MMA Board of Trustees.

The cadet is modeled after Phil Baum ’63, who donated funds for the materials for the project. The statue symbolizes Stribling’s greatness as a leader, mentor and role model. To maintain Col. Stribling’s legacy, front and center, for all of our current and future cadets, the statue stands where every cadet walks daily, passing from the barracks to Barnard Hall.

Thank you to the following alumni and friends of the Academy whose support made the Stribling statue possible:

Statue benefactor: Phil Baum ’63

Artist: Javier Campuzano ’82

Statue transportation: Ricky Uriegas ’91

Granite base transportation: Lynn Jenkins ’57 and Hunter Jenkins ’85

Base-level sponsors ($1,000 or more):

Gregg Center ’91

Jason ’88 and Barbara Falbo-Gwinn

Charles Foley ’53

Lawrence Garrett ’57

Chris Genry ’88

Greg Holten ’88

Terry Logue ’72

Jarrod ’97 and Jennifer Magee

CSM Steve ’97 and Jentrie McDavid

Rex Rodenbaugh ’95

Sanders Roth ’04

The Centennial Class

Dr. Gregory Temple ’71 Class of 1988

Granite façade sponsors ($500-$999):

Jay Allen ’91

Cassandra Brooks

Paul Petit ’85

Lazaro “Frank” Villafranca ’90

Erik Wietsma ’89 Class of 1991

Statue base sponsors ($250-$499, FKA brick-level sponsors):

Rick Dehlinger ’93

Andy Hall ’85

Heinz Leigh ’99

Eric Martinson ’96

Jim ’86 and Amy Obenshain

Ricky Uriegas ’91

LTC Thomas Wittman ’75 Class of 1997 Class of 1981

Alumni BOD Contact Information

OD Mailbox

MMA.Alumni.Brotherhood@gmail.com

Gregg Center ’91–President 312-636-5153 Gcenter13@gmail.com

Jarrod Magee ’97–Vice President 618-530-2981 Jmageepainting@gmail.com

Kurt Bilsel ’81–Secretary 314-238-4050 kabilsel@gmail.com

Clay Grant ’88–Treasurer 214-616-7233 sclaygrant@gmail.com

Jason Falbo-Gwinn ’88–Dir. Class Agents 913-904-2567 JFalbo@hyalogic.com

Steve McDavid ’97–Executive Advisor 910-797-9277 mmaalumni97@gmail.com

Ricardo Uriegas ’91 US: 956-278-6022 rickuriegas@gmail.com Mex :*52-1-81-2575-9429

Jose Bours ’94 +52-644-159-4425 jfbours@gmail.com

Heinz Leigh ’99 573-999-0700 heinzleigh@gmail.com

Eric Martinson ’96 512-922-2990 emartins@austin.rr.com

Garrett Stockum ’87 309-275-1997 garrett@stockum.com

BOD Committee Members – Non-Voting

Greg Holten ’88 618-541-8026 gregholten@yahoo.com Larry Wylie ’88.......................................................................................................... 618-670-5660 ......................................................................................Larrywylie@gmail.com

Brenton Stuehmer ’97 816-799-4962 brenton.stuehmer@gmail.com

Jorge Yarta-Sada ’89 +35-196-249-8294 jorgeyartesada@gmail.com Mike Misemer ’89 ................................................................................................... 941-328-2511 ...............................................................................michaelmisemer@yahoo.com

John Davis ’92 618-339-9125 jdavis151@gmail.com Scott Hamilton ’01 252-626-1728 scotthamiltonnc@gmail.com

Kwakou Casselle ’93............................................................................................... 571-529-0936 .................................................................................... sonofbeni@hotmail.com

Nicholas Zippman ’98 760-201-7831 nzippmann@gmail.com Meng Shixuan ’08 706-949-5899 jonyoung82@gmail.com AJ Vassen ’07 .............................................................................................................. 618-210-0646 ........................................................................... Chicagoeconomist1@gmail.com

Scott Szopinski ’04 319-361-3904 sszopinski10@gmail.com

Brenton Stuehmer ’97 816-799-4962 brenton.stuehmer@gmail.com

Bryce Bowen ’21

515-664-5495 ...................................................................................... Bbow16.vt@gmail.com Ian Wolfe ’91 361-510-3772 seadragon72@gmail.com

Manuel Obregon ’94 704-526-9959

Vinny Mirabella ’82 314-517-8222 vinny@gemsone.com

Auxiliary

Jennifer Magee 618-250-7747

jennifer.n.magee@gmail.com

Amy Obenshain 405-234-0309 asobenshain@gmail.com

Barb Falbo-Gwinn 816-550-3771 barbarafalbo@comcast.net

Jentrie McDavid 910-583-4636 jentriebo@yahoo.com

Kasey Szopinski 319-361-8510 mamaszopinski@gmail.com

Brenda Doerhoff Guccigoo2016.gmail.com

Gina Stockum 309-275-1331 gina@stockum.com

Jeanne Gentry jeannegentry63@gmail.com

Karen Martin kkmartin57@gmail.com

Theresa Wolfe theresamcdaniel1@gmail.com

Stephanie Carey...................................................................................................................................................................................................................... stephaniescarey71@gmail.com

Karen Jones kjones2030@gmail.com

Mary Harrelson Mharrelson676@gmail.com

Alumni BOD International Alumni Committee – Time and Talent

By Rick Uriegas ’91

Greetings from Nuevo Leon, Brothers.

Since March 2022, I have been involved as chair of our International Alumni Committee, and I plan on doing this for years to come. I have high hopes of getting more brothers involved so when the time comes, I can pass the baton to the next in line. It has been a blessing and a roller coaster of mixed emotions. I have been encouraging my brothers to get involved, and some have come out to say: “You are right, Uriegas. We need to be more involved. We need to invest some time and talent with our alma mater.” While speaking with our international brothers, I have often said that we don’t necessarily have to give money to the Academy — we can give our time and talent!

I sent a message to my Latin brothers to ask them to get involved and help me form an International Alumni Advisory Board for this committee. The board will give us a foundation of volunteers for the Board of Directors and serve as a bridge between U.S. and international brothers.

For the past few months, I have had the honor and pleasure of meeting several brothers in Guadalajara and the Monterrey area for breakfast and lunch. We also met on Friday, December 9th in Querétaro, Mexico. Querétaro is currently the fastest-growing city in Mexico, and many of our brothers live there.

I continue to look for ways to keep our brothers engaged with the Academy and to have them come back for Homecoming. It is great that we are meeting in Mexico, and it has been wonderful to strengthen our bonds, but it is ultra-necessary, in my belief, for alumni to return and experience MMA again and share old war stories with our brothers. I’ve said this in the past, and I will continue to do so.

It was Mark Magnon ’89 and Paul Petit ’85 who urged me to get involved and to return for Homecoming, so I did! That was about 10 years ago, and I was 41 at the time. I had not been back to MMA since I graduated, except for a summer when I drove up to Wisconsin during my junior year in college and decided to take a detour and stopped at MMA. It was nice to see the campus, but at that time, there was no one around

except for a couple of faculty members. I encourage everyone to go back to campus at least once every year!

I interact in at least four different WhatsApp groups. One is focused on business, which we have named the Global Network. We have one Mexico City group, one Mexico Country group and one Monterrey group. I am also active on 1889Connect.org, LinkedIn and Twitter. I am always promoting brotherhood and MMA.

So far, we have committee involvement from Spanish/ Portuguese, Mexican, Chinese and American brothers. I would love to see a more diverse crowd within our International Committee group. If you happen to be an international alumnus and would like to join our group, please get in touch with me either via WhatsApp at +528125759429 and/or via email: rickuriegas@gmail.com 

Reveille is an electronically published alumni newsletter, created in collaboration between the Missouri Military Academy Alumni Association and the MMA Marketing Department.

If you have questions, comments, or concerns about Reveille, please contact: Eric Martinson ’96 at emartins@austin.rr.com or Jason Falbo-Gwinn ’88 at JFalbo@hyalogic.com or marketing@missourimilitaryacademy.org.