the
GUIDON
The Publication of the Texas Aggie Corps of Cadets Association
Celebrating 135 Years of the Texas Aggie Corps of Cadets
WINTER 2012
www.corpsofcadets.org
the Guidon
1
On the Cover: 2012 Rally to the Guidons participants pictured left to right: Caesar “Skip” Alvarado ’68, Col Danny Barr ’68, USAF, Ret., Col Don Cumbie ’68, USA, Ret., and LTC Tom Owen ’76, USA, Ret.. Above: Class of ’13 Bandsmen and Texas Aggie Band Association Board members pose for a picture after the Aggie Band letterman sweater banquet. Story on page 14. 2
the Guidon
Texas Aggie Corps of Cadets Association
Departments 4 8 33 34
Aggie News Cadet News New Members Aggies in Service
cca-top gun 6
6
Mark Shaw ’68
Former cadet Mark Shaw ’68, among 50 nominees, receives the 2012 TIME Dealer of the Year award.
features 20 2011 Rally to the Guidons
A pictoral look at the 2011 Rally to the Guidons 135th Anniversary of the Corps of Cadets. Plus, how one former outfit makes a difference in a cadet’s life.
26 Joey Villavisencio ’12
20
The tragic death of Aggie football player Joey Villavisencio ’12 had an impact on the Aggie community and the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band. Read how this young man left his impact on the Pulse of Aggieland.
28 That “Famous Aggie T”
A brief history of the origins of the “Famous Aggie T” is given and how one class revived it.
30 SQ 1 and Company F-1 Return
A story of how former Aggies came together to bring back their former outfits. the Guidon
Managing Editor Executive Editor Design & Layout Assistant Editors Contributing Writers Contributing Photographers
Bill Gutierrez ’91 Don Crawford ’64 Valerie Blakey ’07 Juli Gesino Julie Pontikes ’95 Bruce Bockhorn ’74, Ph.D. Monica Zavala ’11 Lindsey Shelburne ’11 Lindsey Shelburne ’11 Chelsea Gardner ’12
26
the Guidon is printed quarterly by Insite Publishing, Bryan, TX.
For questions and address changes, please contact our office at 877.892.4222 or mail requests to 1134 Finfeather Rd., Bryan, TX 77803. Additional copies are $2.95 each, available online at www.corpsofcadets.org in the online store.
Additional photographs for many of these events and others may be found on the Texas Aggie Corps of Cadets Association photo store at www.backprint.com/cca. www.corpsofcadets.org
30 the Guidon
3
AGGIE News
An Aggie Icon, Registrar Don Carter ’65 Retires Donald Carter, ’65 & ’66, the long-time registrar at Texas A&M University who served tirelessly for 45 years, formally retired on December 31, 2011. Carter is himself an Aggie and the recipient of two degrees, a Bachelor’s in Business Administration in marketing in 1965 and a Master’s Degree in management the following year. During his tenure, Mr. Carter’s office maintained transcripts for any student who ever attended A&M. In addition, he was involved in the awarding of 340,000 diplomas to Aggies, which is about 88 percent of all Aggies who have ever graduated from A&M. He also participated in more than 300 graduation ceremonies, which may be a national record. Carter began his almost five-decades of service as a graduate assistant and got his start in the registrar’s office under the university’s longtime and legendary registrar, H. L. Heaton. The name Heaton is very familiar to thousands of former students and former cadets who call themselves “Ol’ Ags” as the Heaton name now graces the building that formerly housed the registrar’s office. During his tenure as registrar, Mr. Carter saw astonishing changes at Texas A&M University. When he began working as the registrar in September of 1966, Texas A&M‘s student body consisted of a mere 10,677 Aggies, including 2,838 Cadets. Of the student body population, only five percent were women. Over time, Mr. Carter saw a modest university grow to a student body of over 50,000 students, with women making up 46 percent of the student population. The most important factor that should stand out in the minds and hearts of all Aggies is Carter‘s personal assurance to provide the individually earned degrees at the graduation ceremony, which is unlike most schools. Mr. Carter says he takes special pride in the fact that during his tenure, every Texas A&M student and cadet who walked across the stage at graduation received their actual diploma at their ceremony. “That’s a rarity in higher education these days, especially for large universities. Most college students elsewhere are given empty cylinders at their ceremonies, and then subsequently receive their diplomas by mail or via some other impersonal capacity,” stated Carter. “I am proud that’s not the case here.” Anyone walking past the registrar‘s office before graduation day can attest that they saw the proverbial “midnight oil” burning. Carter and his, “Aggie Elves” always ensured the cylinders contained the coveted Aggie diploma. “Under our watch, every Aggie who walked across the stage at graduation had their diploma in the cylinder handed to them by the president of the university,” stated Carter. 4
the Guidon
The university’s current president, R. Bowen Loftin ’70, a Texas A&M physics graduate, making him one of the 340,000 former students whose diplomas were handed out since Carter has been in the registrar’s office, calls Carter “an Aggie icon.” He further states, “Don has seen more change in Aggieland than almost anyone. One thing has remained constant, however, and that has been Don Carter. Our commencement ceremonies are truly special for our graduates and their families because of the tireless work of Don and his team,” states Loftin. “He will certainly be missed, but I am confident that his legacy and the high standards that he has set will serve us well for years to come and solidify his status as an Aggie icon.” Thank you for your services and your special attention to detail Mr. Carter!
Texas Aggie Corps of Cadets Association
NASA’s Shuttle Motion Simulator Finds a New Home at Texas A&M
“We feel tremendously privileged, and more than a little excited, to be giving the Shuttle Motion Simulator a new home,” said John Valasek, Professor at the Texas A&M Aerospace Engineering Department. Valasek said that, “All of this would not have been possible without the support of NASA and Texas A&M’s many donors and supporters who all share a common passion and enthusiasm for space exploration.” Further, he said that, “When operational again, the SMS will be the centerpiece of many educational, outreach, and research activities for a long time to come. Until now, 355 astronauts have trained on the Shuttle Motion Simulator and flown on a space shuttle mission. Now the rest of us can experience at least a part of the excitement of space exploration, just the way the astronauts trained for it.” Aggie astronaut Mike Fossum ’80 said he was “…glad to see it happen.” Col Fossum was commander of SQ 3 (BC3) during his senior year in the Corps of Cadets and has participated in three Space Shuttle flights. On his third spaceflight, Col Fossum ’80 spent 167 days in space on the International Space Station. “It has been a huge part of our legacy and a very important part of our training,” added Col Fossum. “This is a real piece of equipment and they are not going to just put a plaque on it and let it gather dust, they are going to put it to work. I love that,” he said. Col Fossum will be the guest speaker at this year’s Senior Dining In for the Class of 2012.
Pictured above: Paul Hill ’84 and Texas A&M President R. Bowen Loftin ’70 signing the Space Act Agreement. The simulator will not only be used in aerospace engineering courses; it will also be accessible to all A&M students, cadets, staff, and faculty as well as spaceflight enthusiasts and fans of technology not affiliated with Texas A&M. It is an honor and a privilege that Texas A&M was chosen as the institution of higher learning that will give the SMS a new home.
L-R: Dr. Ellen Ochoa, Deputy Director Johnson Space Center, Paul Hill ’84, Mission Control Director, John Valasek, Professor, Texas A&M Aerospace Engineering Department, Astronuat Mike Fossem ’80, and R. Bowen Loftin ’70 at the Space Act Agreement signing ceremony. The ceremony was held at NASA’s Johnson Space Center.
www.corpsofcadets.org
the Guidon
Photo courtesy of NASA.org
Once on campus, one of the simulator’s cockpits will be functional. Paul Hill ’84, former member of SQ7 (Seagram’s 7) and the Director of Mission Operations at NASA’s Johnson Space Center, stated that, “The SMS at Texas A&M is going to be returned to an operational simulator.” He added that, “At A&M…students and engineers will have the opportunity to not just see it (the SMS), but to actually use it to develop new operations and develop new equipment to be used by next generation spacecraft.”
Photo courtesy of NASA.org
A big piece of NASA’s Space Shuttle program is going to be making its home at Texas A&M. During a ceremony held on December 19, 2011 at NASA’s Johnson Space Center, Texas A&M President R. Bowne Loftin ’70 signed a Space Act Agreement that clears the way for the Shuttle Motion Simulator (SMS), the primary space shuttle launch and landing trainer, to be relocated to Texas A&M. For the past 30 years, SMS simulated sights, sounds, and motions that astronauts experienced in all 135 space shuttle missions. The simulator will be delivered to the university in two shipments and will be installed in the University Services Building. The expectation is that it will be fully operational by the spring of 2013.
5
cca-top gun Former Cadet Auto Dealer Mike Shaw ’68 Named 2012 National Auto Dealer of the Year by TIME and Ally Financial at NADA Convention only 50 auto dealers, from 17,000 nationwide, nominated for the 43rd annual award, and was selected from four finalists. A panel of faculty members from the Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan selects one finalist from each of the four NADA regions and one national Dealer of the Year. He was nominated for the TIME Dealer of the Year Award by Tim Jackson, president of the Colorado Automobile Dealers Association. “This is the first time in the 40-plus year history of the award that a Colorado-nominated dealer has won the overall award nationally,” Jackson said.
Photo courtesy of Mark Shaw’ 68
Shaw’s success in the auto industry started with managing and owning a string of dealerships before he launched the “Mike Shaw” branded stores in 1994. His first store was Mike Shaw Chevrolet Saab in Denver. Today, he has six other dealerships in Colorado, Louisiana and Texas. “My actions and ethics as a dealer have helped me become one of the largest minority-owned car dealers in the nation,” Shaw explains. His two sons also work for the business. Shaw states that, “My mantra in business is that quality comes first, customers are always the focus and integrity is never compromised.”
Mike Shaw ’68, principal of Mike Shaw Automotive Group has been named the 2012 national TIME Dealer of the Year. Shaw was chosen to receive this honor out of a select group of dealers from across the country recognized at the 95th annual National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) Convention & Exposition in Las Vegas. The TIME Dealer of the Year award is one of the automobile industry’s most prestigious and highly coveted honors. Recipients are among the nation’s most successful auto dealers who must also demonstrate a long-standing commitment to community service. The announcement was made by Kim Kelleher, Worldwide Publisher for TIME, and Tim Russi, Executive Vice President of North American Operations – Auto (NOA) at Ally Financial, at the convention opening which attracted more than 20,000 individuals involved in the automobile industry. Mr. Shaw was chosen to represent the Colorado Automobile Dealers Association in the national competition – one of 6
the Guidon
Mike Shaw graduated from Weslaco High School in Weslaco, Texas in 1964. He went on to earn a degree in business management at Texas A&M University in 1968. While at Texas A&M, Mr. Shaw was a member of the Corps of Cadets and was a member of “A” Battery, Third Battalion, and was a Distinguished Military Graduate. He served as a U.S. Army officer and completed a one year tour in Vietnam before he returned home and focused on building his career in the automotive industry. “I fell in love with the car business and knew instantly that was where I belonged,” he says. In the area of community service, Shaw incorporates his business expertise to advance his philanthropic causes. For the past 17 years, he has been involved with numerous projects and organizations, including Boys & Girls Clubs of America, Urban League of Denver, Make-A-Wish Foundation, Colorado Aids Walk, Food Bank of the Rockies, American Cancer Society (golf classic), Crime Stoppers, Executive Women International and Seniors Inc., to name a few. He has also been an advisor and served on the boards of the National Western Stock Show, St. Joseph Hospital Foundation, Denver Zoological Foundation, Texas State Aquarium, Kempe Foundation and many others, as well as
Texas Aggie Corps of Cadets Association
Photo courtesy of media.ally.com
“My mantra in business is that quality - Mike Shaw ’68 comes first...”
2012 Time Dealer of the Year
Above: Tim Russie, Ally Financial Executive Vice President congratulates Mike Shaw ’68 and his wife Nancy. spearheading numerous fundraising events. Shaw says, “I am a national Boy Scout award given for service to Hispanica person who deeply cares about kids and their education, American/Latino youth. He was the first recipient of “I am honored and humbled as the first especially kids who come from low-income backgrounds. the award. I am convinced the key to success is education, and thus, recipient,” Shaw said. “Since early age, the Boy Scouts were my commitment to kids and education is a driving force. I instrumental in molding me and instilling my ethical and also believe that what you give, you get back tenfold.” He core values. It is such an honor to be recognized for giving goes on to say that, “Family, ethical behavior and education back and impacting the lives of our future leaders in this are values that have guided me to success,” he says. “I am way.” in the business of selling, and I bring those same skills to the community organizations I serve.” In fact, he helped the As a result of Shaw being nominated as Dealer of the Year, Boy Scouts turn their popcorn fundraiser from a $200,000 his community will receive charitable contributions to his program into a $3 million bonanza. “I set it up as if it was local community causes from Ally Financial. Ally will also one of my dealerships and the Scouts were salesmen,” give donations to local causes of all 50 nominated dealers Shaw says. across the United States. Shaw’s efforts have garnered him numerous awards, but the one that means the most, other than this most recent national award, is the scouting…”Vale La Pena!” award,
Shaw and his wife, Nancy, have three children and three grandchildren.
www.corpsofcadets.org
the Guidon
7
Cadet News
The Corps of Cadets Participates in Veterans Day Ceremonies The Corps of Cadets held multiple on-campus ceremonies and participated in the College Station ceremony honoring Veterans Day on Friday, November 11, 2011. The first on-campus ceremony began at 11 a.m. - the same time of day the Armistice was signed on November 11, 1918. It was at the World War I Monument near the West Gate and included a wreath laying ceremony. In addition, a Texas Aggie Band bugler played Taps and the Ross Volunteer Company provided a three volley salute. The West Gate Memorial located at the northwest corner of Simpson Drill Field, was dedicated by the Classes of ’23, ’24, ’25, and ’26 in recognition of the participation by the A&M College of Texas in World War I and of the heroic sacrifices made by 55 A&M Cadets who lost their lives. A second ceremony was held at the Corps Plaza Memorial at noon and also included a wreath laying ceremony and a bugler playing Taps. The Corps Plaza Memorial is located
at the north entrance of the Quadrangle. This memorial commemorates those Aggies who have given their lives while on active military duty since the end of World War II and include 392 Aggie names. The third ceremony followed at the Spanish-American War Memorial and included a wreath laying ceremony. The Spanish-American War Memorial is located at the south entrance of Sanders Corps of Cadets Center and recognizes the Aggies who served the United States in its conflict with Spain from 1898-1902. The College Station ceremony took place at Veteran’s Park at 5 p.m. near the Brazos Valley Memorial. The Aggie Band provided music, the Corps Center Guard raised the colors and the Ross Volunteer Company provided a three volley salute. Information courtesy of TAMU Times.
Texas A&M Corps Center Guard members raise the colors at the College Station Veterans Day Ceremony.
8
the Guidon
Texas Aggie Corps of Cadets Association
Remembrance Day National Roll Call
Texas A&M University joined a nationwide grassroots effort to honor veterans by participating in Remembrance Day National Roll Call, an event sponsored by the Veterans Knowledge Community of NASPA Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education (NASPA). More than 100 other colleges and universities across the U.S. participated in the event. Cadets at Texas A&M read the names of the 6,200-plus casualties of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, now known as Operation New Dawn. Pictured above: Freshmen cadets Ryan Cagney ’15, P-2 and Anna Ketelsen ’15, SQ 20, were amoung several cadet participants that read the names of the 6,200 casualties. At 8 a.m. on November 11, 2011 on Military Walk behind Rudder Tower, readers began announcing the names in chronological order. The reading took nearly eight hours to complete. www.corpsofcadets.org
the Guidon
9
cadet News
Junior Yell Leader Aids In Arrest
Cadet Nelson Ingram ’13 heard, “Stop! Police!” as he walked to his car after Ross Volunteer practice Monday, November 14, 2011. Instead of watching the incident unfold and walking away, Cadet Ingram decided to help. Several Texas A&M University Police officers were in pursuit of 18-year old Matrix Oliver, who was fleeing on foot from the Commons and evading arrest after allegedly assaulting his ex-girlfriend by punching her in the face. The foot pursuit began at the Commons area and led to the Aggie Band Practice field. It was there that Cadet Ingram decided to get involved. “I turned around and saw that this kid had run onto the Band field and was being followed by a bicycle police officer,” Ingram said. “The officer was yelling, ‘Stop! Police! Stop! Police!’ Then the officer jumped off his bike and started chasing him to Lot 40.” Ingram said he heard someone say ‘‘get him,’’ so he dropped his bag and started to run toward the suspect. “It took me a second to fully realize what was going on, but I decided to just take off and help (the officer) catch the assailant,” stated Ingram. “I
ran through the bushes by Lot 40 … I was running through the cars and I got within about five feet of him and he said, ‘I’ll quit,’ and lied down on the ground,” added Ingram. Once the suspect was on the ground, Ingram stood over him and waited for police officers to make the arrest. “He wasn’t very big and I think he heard my footsteps and didn’t want to keep going,” Ingram said. Ingram stated that it was a crazy situation but he did what any other Aggie would have done. “He just happened to be running in my direction,” said Ingram. When University Police officers arrived at the scene, the suspect lay on the ground as Ingram stood over him, according to a witness, the suspect was arrested and transported to Brazos County Sherriff’s Office. He was booked for assault by contact, dating violence and evading arrest. Freshmen cadet Taylor Lloyd ’15 witnessed the incident first hand. “After Mr. Nelson finished giving his statement to the police he walked away as if it was just another night in College Station,” said fish Lloyd. Lloyd said of the incident, “In the midst of so many tragedies around the country stemming from people in a position of leadership failing to act responsibly, I thought this was a great story of a representative of Texas A&M and the Corps of Cadets fulfilling his role and doing the right thing even when he expected to receive no recognition.” Cadet Ingram ’13 is a member of Company D-2 and a business administration major from Abilene, Texas.
Howdy Ags! The date for the 2012 Rally to the Guidons
October 20, 2012 Aggies vs. LSU
Registration Opens
April 21, 2012
www.corpsofcadets.org/rally 10
the Guidon
Texas Aggie Corps of Cadets Association
O.R. Simpson Honor Society Induction Ceremony The General Ormond R. Simpson Corps Honor Society held its Fall Induction Ceremony at 9:30 a.m. in Rudder Tower on December 7, 2011. The selection of new inductees is based on sound academic achievement, ability, scholarship, and dedicated service to the Corps of Cadets and the Texas A&M community. To be eligible, a cadet must have completed two (2) semesters in the Corps of Cadets at Texas A&M University and be in good academic standing, per the Standard. In addition, applicants must meet specific criteria. Senior cadets must have at least 3.20 cumulative GPR with 84 hours, junior cadets must have at least a 3.30 cumulative GPR with 54 hours, and sophomore cadets must have at least a 3.40 cumulative GPR with 25 hours. The society is not just a social group within the Corps of Cadets. Honor society members and new candidates participate in a formalized mentoring and tutoring program. Based on the results of the FOW assessment, freshmen are paired with O.R. members for an easier transition into Texas A&M University and the Corps of Cadets. Each mentor is given dorm access for their mentee and is allowed to sign the mentee out of 1 Call to Quarters (CQ) per week. The outfit’s Junior in Charge of Call to Quarter (JCQ), mentors, mentees, commanding officers and scholastic chains are given a list of those participating in the program.
In addition to mentoring, O.R. Simpson provides drop in tutoring during CQ on the most difficult subjects for freshmen. O.R. tutoring is held in the Lounge C classroom and Lounge E conference room. To be considered an active member in the society, cadets are required to attain 25 activity points in each semester to maintain their active status. These activities include mentoring/tutoring, member meetings, socials and service project attendance. This year’s O.R. Simpson Honor Society President is Cadet Kyle Reisz ’12, SQ 8.
“The purpose of the General Ormond R. Simpson Corps Honor Society is to honor cadets who excel academically and to provide mentoring & tutoring for cadets needing academic assistance. All active members and new candidates are required to mentor or tutor underclassmen in the Corps of Cadets.” Class of ’14
Abbott, Kevin Aulbaugh, Brett Austin, Whealton Blake, Michelle Canzonetta, David Caraway, Calvin Casey, Patrick Covell, Jeffrey Crawford, Ryan Esposito, Daniel Dart, Collin Eberhardt, Michael Fleitman, Travis Fuss, Allison Gil, Eric Gilbert, William Golden, John Goulas, Max
List of Fall Inductees
Haines, Austin Halling, Lilliebeth Halling, Pollyanna Halling, Aaron Hering, Steven Hersh, David Hessler, Brian Hewett, Josh Hill, Karl Jackson, Trevor Jaska, Michael Kim, Yong LeBlanc, Jeffrey Lee, Kory Lengyel, Daniel Lusk, Lucas Manchigiah, Christopher Mays, Tyler McClenny, Levi
Mead, William Moss, Kevin Oliver, John Owen, Andrew Perez, Garrett Powell, Larry Riggs, Ashley Robinette, Dillon Scott, Bryan Singh, Dylan Stewart, Sean Strain, Luke Taute, Michael Tolson, Erin Vargas, Samantha Vece, Kevin Venesky, Michael Wallace, Konner Warmath, Jacob
Wolf, Paul
Class of ’13
Bernhard, Cory Bloomquist, Taylor Blueitt, Brawnlyn Cranford, Aaron Harvey, Wahlt Odom, Kayla Patterson, Laura Pellegrino, Ricardo Perkins, Jeffrey Reed, Ryan Rowlette, Kacie Smith, Michael Stetina, Alyson Williams, Garrett Wooldridge, Zach
Class of ’12
Brown, Steven Clark, Kyle Graham, Katharine Harris, Matthew Jungman, Cody Lewis, Andrew Moczygemba, Kelly Sue Shillings, Clayton Spangler, Marisela Thomas, Mitchell Villanueva, Elizabeth Wright, Matthew
Information courtesy of the O.R. Simpson Honor Society
www.corpsofcadets.org
the Guidon
11
cadet News
Spring Orientation Week 2012
While most cadets join the Corps during their fall semester at the beginning of the school year, students are also welcome to join after classes have begun. Many cadets who join after the fall semester have a variety of reasons for becoming members of the Corps but many want a challenge after being students at Texas A&M. All cadets who join later in the year receive their training through Squadron 18, a unit designed to train cadets at a fast pace and prepare them for success in the Corps and as students at Texas A&M. This spring, the Corps welcomed its largest spring class of cadets ever as they joined the Corps and participated in this year’s Spring Orientation Week (SOW). The SOW is a weeklong training process that helps prepare new cadets for life at Texas A&M as members of the Corps. This spring, 51 fish joined the Corps and participated in the 2012 SOW, which began on Friday, January 6, 2012, and culminated with a parent’s barbeque on Saturday, January 14, 2012. Most new cadets are now members of SQ 18 and the new transfer unit, Company K-1. A few cadets joined the ranks of Company V-1, the Figthin’ Texas Aggie Band and D-Company.
COL Sam Hawes ’81, Assistant Commandant for Recruiting stated that this was a really strong recruiting effort. “This is largest spring class we have ever and I would have to attribute this to current cadets contributing significantly to the effort,” Hawes added. Good job! Information courtesy of the Commandant’s Office
Corps Marathon Team Update On January 15, 2012 the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Corps of Cadets Marathon Team had 20 runners complete the 2012 Chevron Houston Marathon and two runners complete the 2012 Aramco Half Marathon. With the Houston Marathon behind them, the team is looking forward to the Austin Marathon, for which there are 20 cadets registered to run. Houston Full Marathon Finishing Times Name Time (Hours) Ben Landon ’13 3:14:24 Yidong Chen ’12 3:20:51 Ruben Aguilar ’12 3:36:48 Kalan Scott ’12 3:42:11 Collin Dart ’14 3:42:32 Nicholas Coussoulis ’13 3:44:03 William Mead ’14 3:48:59 Andrew Goessler ’12 4:01:11 Anthony Moltz ’13 4:03:17 Elizabeth Wolf ’12 4:07:03 Richard Fink ’13 4:11:54 Hayden Smith ’13 4:18:58 Mark Jessup ’12 4:23:14 Luke Donaldson ’12 4:33:11 Jason Aston ’12 4:33:11 Luke Ellis ’12 5:01:52 Payne Beagles ’12 5:01:52 Thomas Timbol ’13 5:10:16 Cristina Palomino ’14 5:11:51 Karen Villanueva’12 6:00:01 Half Marathon Finishing Times Micah Hignight ’12 2:17:00 Denise James ’12 2:00:43 12
the Guidon
About the Corps Marathon Team: The team operates with the support of the Commandant’s Office and The Texas Aggie Corps of Cadets Association. Each year, the marathon team members, no matter their running experience, have the opportunity to represent the Corps of Cadets by participating in either the Houston or the Austin Marathons. The team has bi-weekly meetings in which cadets are taught proper training practices, hear from guest speakers and discuss their training progress. The faculty advisor for the Corps of Cadets Marathon Team is LtCol Joseph “Rod” Matte ’76. The 2011-2012 Corps Team Captains are Luke Donaldson ’12 and Jason Aston ’12.
Texas Aggie Corps of Cadets Association
Aggie Eagle Program Weekend is a Success – Highlight is the AEP Awards Banquet The AEP, which began in 2004, is a recruiting program for the Corps of Cadets that aims to increase the number of successful Scouts within the Corps of Cadets. Typically, in any given year, the Corps has over 300 members who hold the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) Eagle or the Girls Scouts USA (GSUSA) Gold Award. The Corps of Cadets recognizes that the character traits that motivate a young person to work towards success in the Scouts are the same traits that would lead to success as a Cadet. The AEP is open to high school juniors and seniors who meet certain academic standards. The second Aggie Eagle Program (AEP) weekend for the 2011-2012 academic year occurred on January 27-28, 2012. While participating in this AEP weekend, Scouts and their parents had the opportunity to watch the Rudder’s Rangers and Recon Company special units and also a Fish Drill Team performance. They also had the opportunity to meet with members of these units for open discussion, attend an Aggie Basketball game, participate in the Corps’ Leadership Development Course and/or tour the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum. In addition, the Texas Aggie Corps of Cadets Association sponsored the AEP Awards Banquet, which was held on the Friday evening. During the banquet, Commandant Joe Ramirez, Jr. ’79 delivered a presentation to all attendees. The highlight of the banquet was that the Scouts attend the program received a place holder Corps of Cadets scholarship worth a minimum of $1,200 per year for the first two years.
Pictured above: An AEP Scout and Cadet Daniel Gettemy ’12, B-Battery and member of the Aggie Eagle Post enjoy the banquet dinner.
We look forward to welcoming these recruits into the Corps of Cadets!
Pictured above: Aggie Eagle Post Commander Kaylee Ahnberg ’12, A-Battery congratulates a Scout on receiving his place holder scholarship at the AEP banquet. The Aggie Eagle Post (AEP) helps organize Eagle Scouts, Gold Award recipients, and Quartermaster Award recipients in the Corps of Cadets in order to continue the further development of skills learned leading to the above mentioned awards. Left: AEP is a family oriented program that is educational for Scouts and parents alike. Information courtesy of the Commandant’s Office www.corpsofcadets.org
the Guidon
13
cadet News
Hard Work, Dedication and Enduring Pride: The Aggie Band Letterman Sweater
Erin Penney ’13 from B-Company smiles after receiving her Aggie Band letterman sweater.
For many cadets, the weight of the Aggie Ring on their fingers for the first time or the feel of sliding those custom made leather boots up their legs is one of the most anticipated and inexplicable feelings in the world. While the same is true for members of the Aggie Band, there is another momentous event every bandsmen looks forward to: receiving their white letterman sweaters.
David Paul ’13 from A-Battery shakes Dr. Timothy Rhea’s hand before receving his Aggie Band letterman sweater.
14
the Guidon
The Aggie Band letterman sweaters are a tradition that dates back to the early 20th century. In the early days, Yell Leaders, members of the “T” Association, and athletes were seen in their respective version of the white letterman sweaters showing their involvement and prowess. Over the years, the Aggie Band letterman sweater has maintained its original design of three maroon stripes on the left sleeve and a maroon Aggie Band patch adorning the left side of the sweater. The patch is made up of a maroon T with a treble clef and “A&M Band” embroidered in white. The earliest picture available was taken in 1953 when the famous band leader Ray Anthony came to Aggieland for a concert. Junior cadets are seen posing for the camera with their white band sweaters draped over their shoulders and big smiles on their faces. During the winter months these distinctive white sweaters stand out in the sea of khaki uniforms and black jackets and command the attention of every passerby. Most Aggie Band freshmen and sophomores look at their white belt upperclassmen with longing, awaiting the day they too can wear a white belt and put that wool sweater on.
Texas Aggie Corps of Cadets Association
B-Battery Class of ’13 juniors give a Gig ’em and pose for the camera after receivng their letterman sweaters.
Senior cadets Lamaur Joseph ’12 and Katelyn Wilson ’12 from A-Battery smile while wearing their brand new letterman sweaters.
Cadets from A-Battery gathered together and posed in their brand new letterman sweaters.
“The moment that I received my Band letterman sweater was one that I had been anticipating since my freshman year,” Sara Long ’13 from A-Company stated. “I remember seeing passing junior classes wearing their letterman sweaters every day they could because they were so excited about getting them.” That moment came for Sara and all of her band buddies, the Class of 2013 when they arrived at the Association of Former Students complex dressed to the nines on January 17, 2012. The cadets gathered around dinner tables with board members of the Texas Aggie Band Association and the band directors to share a formal dinner. After dinner, Texas A&M Linebacker Sean Porter briefly spoke to the junior class before the presentation of the sweaters began. For Junior Brandon Bronaugh ’13, chaplain of A-Battery, receiving his sweater couldn’t come fast enough. “My older brother was one of my zips, A-Batt Class of 2010, and his sweater is still hanging in the closet at home. Now I am going to have my own.” The class of ’13 watched as the
long anticipated sweaters were laid out and their names were called one by one. “Whenever the time came and Colonel Brewer said my name to walk up and receive my sweater, I almost had to keep myself from running because I wanted my sweater so badly,” Sara Long stated. The band directors called each of the junior cadets individually, presented the sweaters, shook the cadet’s hand and showed them where their names were embroidered. Some cadets hugged the directors while others could not take their eyes off the soft sweater. “Even now, I sometimes read the name, my name, stitched into it and I can’t believe it,” Brandon Bronaugh said. The Aggie Band letterman sweater represents more than the cloth it was cut from. It represents the hard work, dedication and enduring pride each Aggie Bandsman feels throughout their tenure. “I realized that this was something I had earned in return for marching three football seasons,” Sara Long said. “Nothing could top that sense of accomplishment.”
www.corpsofcadets.org
the Guidon
15
C ade t Pain t
16
the Guidon
Texas Aggie Corps of Cadets Association
ball
g a m es
The Texas Aggie Corps of Cadets Association sponsored annual Paintball Games which took place on November 11. The games were different this year in that they were comprised of two different events which were incorporated into the earning of the Class of ’15’s Corps Brass during November of 2011.
The Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band was tasked with creating training scenarios with an emphasis on “Soldier,” similar to Lawrence Sullivan Ross’ motto, “Soldier, Statesman, and Knightly Gentleman.” The Combined Band Staff created the “Downed Pilot Scenario” and a “Capture the Flag/ Capture the Beach” event. The Band hosted both events and were in charge of coordinated everything that went into it. Below are details for each scenario.
Downed Pilot Scenario:
1. 7-10 fish team (Good guys) 2. 3-5 upperclassmen team (Bad guys) 3. Objective: To locate the pilot that crashed in the middle of Brayton Fire Training Area and bring him back to base 4. The “Bad guys” would engage when the fish reached the pilot. 5. Purpose: For the fish to gain a greater appreciation for our brothers and sisters in arms.
Capture the Flag:
1. 9 fish team (Good guys) 2. 4-5 enemy (Bad guys) 3. The fish would use a Zodiac (boat) to move across Lake Bryan towards a beach head. 4. Once they landed they dropped their gear, and picked up paintball equipment. 5. Objective: Neutralize all enemy and/or capture the flag. 6. Purpose: For the fish to gain a greater appreciation for our brothers and sisters in arms.
www.corpsofcadets.org
the Guidon
17
Ross Volunteer Association A Division of the Texas Aggie Corps of Cadets Association
February 2012 RVA Update Ladies and Gentlemen: It is time for you to renew your RVA membership. This is our third year and we have a lot to be proud of. We are now recognized as the primary support group for the Ross Volunteer Company and currently have over 300 members. Please help the Ross Volunteer Association grow by notifying your RV buddies, classmates, and RV supporters about what we have accomplished. The RVA is a division of the Texas Aggie Corps of Cadets Association (CCA), as such a 501 c (3) tax exempt organization. Your donations have thus far has helped pay for the following: • RVA plaques, pins, printing, mailing, shirts, hats $ 6,265 • Ross Volunteer practice rifles $21,600 • Ross Volunteer travel $3,700 • Spring Barbeque $2,577 This totals over $34,000 for 2011. We have more to do for the Company as they have not had a sponsor in their entire existence. This year our budget calls for $10,000 in travel support, the spring barbeque which is free for the current RVA membership and a guest, whites for the Firing Squad, practice shirts for the Company and a new Banner. The RVA board would also like to establish a scholarship fund to be available to help a Company member in financial distress. We need your dues money. Dues are our only source of income to accomplish these things. Dues are your choice with the above needs in mind, $50, 100, 250, 500, 1,000 or a lifetime member is $5,000 paid over 5 years.
RVA SPRING CALENDAR Sunday, April 1, 2012 Parents’ Weekend RV Parents’ Weekend Drill
Saturday, April 14, 2012 Spring RVA Social A lunch will be provided to members and current RVs 150 attended the 2011 RVA Spring Social The Performance Rifle Campaign will be discussed in detail Saturday, April 21, 2012 Campus Muster RV Company participates in the MSC reopening Wednesday, May 2, 2012 Ross Volunteer Spring Ball RVA members invited to join at The Company Ball Contact Scott Eberhart ’74 (scotteberhart@sbcglobal.net) or Ron Lueck ’64 (rlueck@verizon.net) for information about membership in the RVA. 18
the Guidon
Texas Aggie Corps of Cadets Association
USAA is proud to be the
Exclusive Provider of Financial Services for the Texas Aggie Corps of Cadets Association (CCA)
Make your savings work harder. USAA Bank makes it easy. Earn higher rates and guaranteed growth with a CD from USAA Bank. At USAA Bank, serving you means helping you make the most of your money. So we make it easy to maximize your savings with the CD terms you need. Safely grow your savings faster with a CD from a bank built on our shared military values of service, loyalty, honesty and integrity.
Open a USAA Bank CD today. usaa.com/cca | 877-940-2677 Insurance Banking Investments Retirement Advice
USAA means United Services Automobile Association and its insurance, banking, investment and other companies. Penalty for early withdrawal may reduce earnings. Availability restrictions apply. Purchase of a bank product does not establish eligibility for, or membership in, USAA property and casualty insurance companies. Bank products provided by USAA Federal Savings Bank, Member FDIC. CCA receives ďŹ nancial support from USAA for this sponsorship. Š 2012 USAA. 135327-0112 www.corpsofcadets.org
the Guidon
19
20
the Guidon
Texas Aggie Corps of Cadets Association
2011 Rally to the Guidons sponsored by USAA
Celebrating 135 Years of Tradition In the early morning mist of a cool October morning, you could see them coming from every direction. Ol’ Ags, dressed in maroon and khaki, coming together on the drill field. They were there to participate in the third annual Rally to the Guidons. The rally is a time for former cadets to reunite and to celebrate time spent in the Corps by marching in behind the Corps of Cadets. It is an event that is now considered a kind of “homecoming” former cadets. The 2011 Rally to the Guidons was attended by more than 800 former members of the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Corps of Cadets. Each participant was outfitted in the official 135th Anniversary Rally to the Guidons shirt, khaki pants, and a ball cap. This year, 135 years of tradition was celebrated. The event was hosted by the Texas Aggie Corps of Cadets Association and sponsored by USAA. As part of this year’s event, former cadets assembled on Simpson Drill Field, which was called the Main Drill Field in days past. It was only fitting to start this year’s Rally to the Guidons on the drill field since so much of the Corps’ history involves the hallowed ground. For over one hundred years, the center of the Corps and campus activity was the Main Drill Field. Over the years, the drill field has been the site of Cadet drill and maneuver practices, horse-drawn artillery and infantry exercises, and cadet pilot training. The open parade ground also served as the college’s early football field prior to construction of a permanent field in 1905. The Aggie Bonfire was held on the Main Drill Field from 1909 until 1955. Significantly, Cadets have assembled there for graduation activities, including the Corps’ Final Review. In 1920, A&M’s Board of Directors paid tribute to former cadets killed during World War I by planting oak trees around the field. Markers at each tree provided the name, class and site and date of death for each man. The classes of 1923, 1924, 1925 and 1926 placed a granite memorial to the war casualties on the west side of the drill field, which was later named for A&M distinguished alumni Lieutenant General Ormond R. Simpson ’36 a mechanical engineering graduate of Texas A. & M. College. Texas A&M’s Main Drill Field is a testament to the school’s beginnings as a military and academic institution, as well as a symbol of Aggies’ service to their state and nation. As such, it was an awesome sight to see so many former Cadets assembled there to honor their history as well. Current Corps Commander, Cadet Colonel Patrick Reeves ’12, led the Corps of Cadets from the Quad to Simpson Drill Field where they were passed and reviewed. The 2011 Rally to the Guidons procession then followed the current Corps for the march in. The former cadets were led by the senior Corps Commander in attendance, Weldon Kruger ’53, and Guidon Bearer C.J. Baumann ’11 to Kyle Field for the Rally march in. Current members of the Corps Center Guard and Ross Volunteer Company accompanied the blocks along the March In route in case of any incidents. The entire procession, divided by blocks separated by decades, former SQ 5 members and the Class of ’74, was impressive. The final block within the unit was the Legacy Block which consisted of former cadets who were related to each other. This block was made up of fathers, sons, daughters, grandfathers, uncles, and brothers. For many of these participants, this was the first time they ever had the opportunity to participate in a Corps march in as a family. “Rally to the Guidons was very well organized and I had a great time. It was a class act worthy of our great alma mater,” commented Lt Col Kevin Nothstine ’91, U.S. Air Force. The event was a huge success, thanks to the hard work and the participation of so many. The CCA looks forward to the next Rally to the Guidons on October 20, 2012, when the Aggies Beat the Hell Outta LSU. www.corpsofcadets.org
the Guidon
21
2011 Rally to the Guidons
sponsored by USAA
Reuniting with Ol’ Buddies, Friends and Family
22
the Guidon
Texas Aggie Corps of Cadets Association
2011 Rally to the Guidons Block Leaders - List of Leaders on Page 25
Review on Simpson
www.corpsofcadets.org
the Guidon
23
2011 Rally to the Guidons
sponsored by USAA
Review on Kyle Field
24
the Guidon
Texas Aggie Corps of Cadets Association
SQ 5 Giving Back to the Corps Rally to the Guidons is a recent tradition within the Corps of Cadets Association which provides the opportunity for former Corps members to come together and march in to Kyle Field. From the beginning, different outfits have taken it upon themselves to gather and reunite before or after Rally and the game to celebrate the good times. However, former members of Squadron 5 also known as the “Filthy Fifth” took that one step further. After gathering at the Inaugural Rally to the Guidons, former cadets from Squadron 5 took it upon themselves to get in touch with each other more often. “It was generally agreed then that this 1st Rally had stirred in all of us, a memory of the thing we missed most about A&M… and that was to see our fish buds” Chris Jones ’78 wrote in an email to his fellow Squadron 5 members. “Thus an idea was born,” said Jones. The original idea at the time was to stay in touch with each other and rebuild upon the camaraderie established during their days in the Corps. However, the former cadets of the “Filthy Fifth” aspired to get in touch of as many people as possible and since then, their network has grown exponentially. Despite coming from a disbanded outfit, former members of Squadron 5 participated in Rally to the Guidons by marching in as their own separate block. Scott Burke ’86, the last commanding officer of Squadron 5, served as the block leader of the Filthy Fifth. “It was decided Scott was the ranking CO owing to the fact that his year as outfit commander was the last of the Filthy Fifth,” Chris Jones ’78 stated.
2011 Rally Block Leaders Rally to the Guidons Procession – Weldon Kruger ’53 1876 -1959 – Charles Little ’53 1960 -1962 – Greg Garcia ’62 1963 -1966 – Bob Schneider ’64 1967 -1969 – Dwight Recht ’67 1970 -1972 – George Hester ’72 1974 - Larry Joost ’74 1973 --976 – Glenn Burnside ’73 1977 -1979 – Vince Gilliam ’77 1980 -1982 – Julia Arthur ’81
Next to Scott at the front of the block was Mr. Vincent B. Hughes ’43 being wheeled around by his grandson Benjamin Hughes ’15 who is a current cadet in Squadron 2. Mr. Vincent Hughes ’79, son to Vincent B. Hughes ’43 and father to Ben Hughes ’15, was a former member of Squadron 5 who marched in the block behind his family. “I had planned on marching with the Legacy block with Ben and Dad,” Vince said. “But when we checked in, it was made clear that the squadron needed our bodies to have enough to march as a block.” With the Hughes family in formation, the Filthy Fifth stepped off and marched their way into history. In a concerted effort to give back to the Corps, former members of Squadron 5 were able to gather $1,000 to give back to a deserving cadet. This check was presented to Cadet Ryan Thompson ’15 from Squadron 21 prior to step off for Rally. Even though Squadron 5 is no longer an outfit in the Corps, the love that former cadets feel for this outfit is showing. The Filthy Fifth is a force to be reckoned with and is out to make history.
1983 -1985 – Patrick Heye ’85 1986 -1989 - Roy Parsons ’89 1990 -2011 – Kevin Nothstine ’91 Legacy – Charlie Rollins ’61 SQ 5 - Scott Burke ’86 www.corpsofcadets.org
the Guidon
25
Joey Villavisencio ’12
I
A Life Well Lived
t is no secret that a special relationship has long existed between the Bandsmen of the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band and the members of the Fightin’ Texas Aggie football team. No matter the location or the score of the contest on the gridiron, the football players understand that the cadets are their most loyal fans and support them in every aspect. There is mutual respect for what each group adds to the tradition of being an Aggie. Each fall, immediately after the conclusion of the football season, the cadets of the junior class in the Aggie Band are honored by the Texas Aggie Band Association (TABA) as they are awarded their letterman’s sweaters after having completed their third marching season. The letterman’s sweater is far more than just a garment. It is a bond that is shared between the current class and all former bandsmen that have come before them that have worn it. It pays tribute to the sacrifices and the successes that come when one represents Texas A&M University in such as unique way. The cadets gather at the Association of Former Students Building for a catered dinner sponsored by the TABA members, an awards ceremony recognizing the significance of the letter sweater, and a special guest speaker. While serving as a board member, and then as the 20072009 President of the TABA, I sought to pay homage to the bond between the Bandsmen and the football team. I approached the Texas A&M Athletic Department about having a current member of the football team attend the dinner and speak to the cadets. Throughout the following years we had several players address the cadets including former servicemen, but no other guest speaker has left a more powerful and lasting impression than the player who attended in November 2010: Joey Villavasencio ’12.
by Bruce Bockhorn ’74, Ph.D. being awarded their letterman’s sweater, Joey spoke to the cadets. Speaking without text, Joey addressed the attendees in a voice that was clear and calm. Yet, he conveyed sincere appreciation and joy about being an Aggie football player, and the importance of having the Aggie Band in the stands for the games. Following the ceremony Joey joined the cadets for a souvenir picture on the grand staircase in the main lobby. Since that memorable night, I spoke to Joey on several occasions. He was always a delight to talk to even though he was not seeing a great deal of action on the field. Most often our conversations included talk about academics as Joey was serious about his studies in radiological health
Joey arrived neatly dressed in his official maroon team blazer. He stood out due to his 6’-7” and 300 lb. structure. His warm smile and style of conversation allowed him to be at ease with the 80 plus junior cadets prior to the meal. During the dinner he sat among his fellow students and enjoyed sharing a meal with the cadets. After the main speaker addressed the cadets about the meaning of 26
the Guidon
Texas Aggie Corps of Cadets Association
engineering. At the Kansas game at Kyle Field this fall, I noticed that with the contest well under control, Joey was on the field, finally getting his chance to play. I trained my camera on him and got some decent photos to document the occasion. I noted that he was playing center rather than guard or tackle, where he normally played. After developing the photographs after the game, I hand wrote a congratulatory note to Joey. With the semester coming to an end, I thought it best to just mail the card and pictures to him after the holidays. Unfortunately, those plans were altered by the 10 p.m. newscast of December 21. As I sat in my easy chair at home watching the news, the sportscaster started to speak and Joey’s official photo came on the screen. I never heard the details because my senses were paralyzed by the initial words that told me he was gone. All my wife heard as she was reading in her chair next to mine was my screaming, “No! No! No!” I finally turned in about an hour later after learning the earliest details of the car crash that took his life as he journeyed home to be with his family for Christmas. My rest was anything but peaceful that night. While my heart was broken, all I could think about was the joy of having known this young man, the fact that he was a true representative of the term ‘student-athlete’ with a superb grade point average, and an Aggie through and through.
www.corpsofcadets.org
All photos courtesy of Bruce Bockhorn ’74. Ph.D.
Over the course of the next few days, as the football team and the Aggie Band prepared for the Mieneke Car Care Bowl of Texas in Reliant Stadium, my thoughts drifted to the loss of this fine young man who had lived his life so well. He was honored at the game by his teammates as they wore his number on their helmets and placed his jersey on the bench during the game. Danny Baker wore Joey’s number 67 and played in the game. While Joey’s life was short in terms of time, he used his talents from God to impact the lives of so many who knew him. Fellow players will attest to his physical strength as a player and his emotional maturity as a person. I can attest to his kindness, his love for the game of football and for his studies, and for his appreciation of his fellow man. May God bless this young man, his family and his Aggie teammates. the Guidon
27
Photo courtesy of Texas A&m University Archives
That Famo
Pictured above: Cadets form the first “Famous Aggie T” on Kyle Field in 1915
A Brief History of that “Famous Aggie T”
On November 19, 2011 the 2,100 member Corps of Cadets formed a “Block T” directly after the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band’s halftime performance during the Texas A&M vs. Kansas football game. This formation marks the first time the Corps of Cadets has formed up on Kyle Field during a football game since 1956. The formation of this year’s 28
the Guidon
“Block T” was held in honor of Military Appreciation Day. Former President George H.W. Bush was in attendance at this historic event.
Photo courtesy of Barker Productions
“That Famous Aggie T” was first formed on Kyle Field at the infamous “13-0” game between the Aggies and t.u. on November 19, 1915 in College Station. To make “That Famous Aggie T,” Cadets filed out of the stands and form up in columns of six. Stepping off to cadence, they would march under the goal posts, swing around and then divide into three groups, each being led by a Yell Leader. Just as it seemed the formation was about to end in an unorganized mess, a large “T” was formed. Pictures of “That Famous Aggie T” have made Texas A&M stand out among the crowd for many years by showing the solidarity and passion of our Corps of Cadets.
Texas Aggie Corps of Cadets Association
ous aggie T" In the fall of 1956, I had been elected Head Yell Leader by my 1957 junior classmates, an honor I’ll always cherish and remember. Talking with the other Yell Leaders, Jack Lunsford Corps Commander, and several others about traditions, it was noted that the Famous Aggie T had not been performed at Kyle Field for several years; that it was an important event to the 12th Man and simply must not be forgotten and allowed to die. There had been a long intermission and our class had never witnessed the “formation of the T” as cadets at Texas A&M. This was important, so I went to Col. Adams, Commander of the band and one of the best Aggies I have known and asked for his help to get this tradition back on track. He said “yes,” but only if the band members voted for it. It meant the band giving up a game time band march. That performance was already a famous tradition and something they had worked for all year. Being one of the best groups on campus, they fully understood the “spirit” and voted “yes” to the man, and we were under way.
Col. Adams had films of previous formations of the T and had a complete understanding of field maneuvers and how the get this done, even with a 5,000 to 5,500 group of cadets who had never done it before, and most who had never seen it. He showed me how the four Wing and Battalion commanders could command the entire Corps from four positions on the field and how military trained people knew the basics. The other four Yell Leaders would shape this group of unknown size. He also told me the, “BIG BASIC,” requirement was permission from “the Bear,” Coach Bryant – and I could tell he thought that might be “tough” (meaning impossible). Coach Bryant “owned Kyle Field and its halftime.” I went to Kyle Field and caught Coach Jim Owens and told him of our plan. I told him we needed the field for a practice session and at half time in the upcoming Rice game. (The one game I thought they would approve, if any at all.) Coach Owens took my request to Coach Bryant and the word came back quickly from Coach Bryant – “No” - without hesitation or explanation – and he dismissed me. I thought, “We have come too far for this answer.” The next day I went back to Coach Bryant’s office and explained to several people who shielded Coach Bryant
by William H. Dorsey ’57
Photo courtesy of Texas A&m University Archives
Revival of that “Famous Aggie T”
from the “unwanted and uninvited” that I really needed to see him on an important matter. I finally got in and quickly explained my mission. He looked at me and said, “Weren’t you here yesterday? I thought we gave you an answer on that!” I said, “Yes you did but it wasn’t the answer I wanted.” I explained that I thought it would help the school – the 12th Man needed it, that exes would like it, and fans would appreciate it. He looked back at me and said, “Hell son, if it means that much to you, go ahead.” From there it was easy. Col. Wilkins got permission for use of a ROTC drill time and school facilities for rehearsal. Col. Adams drew the plan and I got use of Kyle Field so we would have access to the loud speaker system but we were to be limited to one hour of use. I met with the whole Corps at one time and informed them “how to do it” and we did it on game day without a hitch. I always felt these three men did far more than I knew to help accomplish this project. They were the type of leaders so needed in our schools today. The “spirit” of Texas A&M “Corps of Cadets” was demonstrated that day and showed clearly what our school is all about and why, now 50 years later and 10 times larger, the spirit lives on. We were the last class to do this until this year and I feel the Famous Aggie T this year was a gift from the Class of ’57 that kept it alive. We should be proud of it.
www.corpsofcadets.org
the Guidon
29
Bringing the Past and Present Together:
Two Former Corps of Cadets Units Reinstated
Former and current Squandron 1 members pose for pictures during the reinstatement ceremony on January 13. The past is new again as two former Corps of Cadets units have been reinstated. On Friday, January 13, 2012, Squadron 1 and Company F-1 were reactivated. Ceremonies were held at the Sam Houston Sanders Corps of Cadets Center. As part of the welcoming, Corps Commandant BG Joe Ramirez, Jr. ’79 stated: “I am very pleased to see these two units, Squadron 1 and Company F-1, again be a part of the Corps of Cadets. They are a part of the Corps history and will be a new source of pride for our current cadets. I have also heard from many former cadets who were members of these units and I know that they will be pleased to see their Guidons once again flying as part of the Corps. This will be a great day for the Corps. Our ranks are increasing each year and one priority is to have the proper place for them. By standing up units with history and tradition already a part of Texas A&M, we bring the past and the present together.” As Squadron 1 reenters the Corps, a strong history comes along with it. The history of Squadron 1 can be traced back to the 1920’s. The precursor to Squadron 1 was first seen at Texas A&M in 1922 and was called, “Air Service.” The commanding officer was Cadet Major James E. 30
the Guidon
“Slick” Gardner ’22 from Comanche, Texas. In 1929, the Corps of Cadet Air Service outfits were dissolved. The air force units were not seen at A&M again until the late 1940’s. In 1947, the United States Air Force (USAF) was founded. Quickly thereafter, Air Force ROTC outfits became part of the Corps of Cadets. The early Air Force Corps of Cadets outfits were called Squadrons. The predecessor of Squadron 1 was Squadron “A” Army Air Force and was commanded by Cadet Captain Tommy F. Blackstone ’47 from Altus, Oklahoma. During the 1950’s, Squadron 1 went by “Jet-O One” and their logo sported a bird standing on a bomb. After the reorganization of the Corps of Cadets in 1959, Squadron 1 officially became known as “Huslin’ One.” The first roadrunner appeared on a spirit sign in 1960. Since then, SQ 1 has produced some of the most outstanding cadets on the Quad and its members have gone on to become some of the finest military officers, serving in all branches and in Vietnam, Desert Storm 1 and 2, Iraq and Afghanistan. The SQ 1 reactivation came about through the efforts of former members and with the cooperation of Commandant, BG Joe Ramirez, Jr. ’79. CAPT Michael Edwards ’79, USN, (ret.) and other Huslin’ One members met with Commandant Ramirez ’79 with the idea of reinstating their
Texas Aggie Corps of Cadets Association
Above: 1st Wing Commander Paul Ferris ’12 presents the SQ 1 Guidon to Squadron 1 Commander Kristan Volk ’12
Top left: Mr. Bill Stough ’60 makes an address to the Company F-1 reinstatement attendees. Above and above right: Former and current Company F-1 members pose for pictures during the reinstatement ceremony
former outfit. After countless emails and meetings to show the Commandant that there was strong support to bring the outfit back, a SQ 1 reunion was held during Rally to the Guidons weekend this past fall. It was at this reunion that Commandant Ramirez made a public announcement that SQ 1 cadet leadership had been chosen and the outfit would be reinstated. Former members were ecstatic. The former members enjoyed the fruits of their hard work when Huslin’ One was reinstated at the ceremony in January. Many former SQ 1 members could not help but express their enthusiasm for their unit and the fact that it was reinstated. CAPT Michael Edwards ’79 stated, “We had been working on this ever since the outfit was deactivated in 1999, but we felt that bringing back the outfit was important. Cadets that go into the Corps really leave A&M with two degrees. The leave with their field of study but they also leave with leadership experience,” added CAPT Edwards. The second outfit to be reinstated was Company F-1. Many former Company F-1 members, Corps supporters and over thirty F-1 Cadets attended the reinstatement ceremony, including Company Commander Bradley Bergfeld ’12, Executive Officer Frank Funke ’12 and the 1st Sergeant
William Brotherton ’13. Company F-1 was formed during the reorganization of the Corps of Cadets during in 1959. The original members of Company F-1 were made up of cadets coming from A Ordnance and B Ordnance. During the 1959-60 academic school year, Troy Marceleño ’60, Company F-1, and a member of the Corps Staff, suggested the creation of a new collar brass to represent the newly reorganized Corps of Cadets. What he envisioned was a design similar to the current Corps Staff brass that would do justice to the prestige and accomplishments of Texas A&M and the Corps of Cadets. In order to find a design, a Corpswide competition was held, chaired by Marceleño. The winning design was submitted by Robert Haggard, an F-1 sophomore. His winning concept for the Corps Staff brass embodied the elements of, “Soldier, Statesman, Knightly Gentleman,” and is the same design that is part of the current cadet uniform. As such, Company F-1 made a lasting impression that is still visible today. Company F-1 also has a tradition of excellence. The unit won the prestigious General Moore Award, the award given to the top unit in the Corps every year, on 4 different occasions: in 1960, 1964, 1969, and 1970. In addition, in
www.corpsofcadets.org
the Guidon
31
Two Former Corps of Cadets Units Reinstated
The Company F-1 outfit sign is hoisted on Dorm 9. 1969, Company F-1 held all the major Corps of Cadets unit awards. Unfortunately, in the fall of 1984, the unit was reorganized after one of its sophomore cadets, Bruce W. Goodrich, died due to heat stroke. Two years later, in 1986, Company F-1 was officially deactivated and members joined other cadets from Company M-1 to form Company L-1. Happily, after former members petitioned Commandant Ramirez that the “Finest First” be reactivated, it was decided to bring the outfit back on the Quad. At the reinstatement ceremony, incoming commanding officer, Bradley Bergfeld ’12 stated, “We’re proud to bring back the heritage that you former Aggies had when you were here in the Corps. We all look forward to Tuesday when we can step our feet on the ground as new F-1 Cadets and become, once again, the finest members on the Quad.” The reinstatement ceremony also served as a reunion for F-1 members. Attendees included Mr. Bill Stough ’60, the first executive officer of Company F-1. During the reinstatement ceremony, Mr. Stough told the new outfit, “We had something to live up to and you young men and women do too. It’s not a burden, it’s a blessing.” The new outfit is made up of from different outfits from around the Quad, with a majority coming from SQ 18. In addition, the new commanding officer comes from A 32
the Guidon
Company F-1 Commander Bradley Bergfeld ’12 is pictured with former F-1 member Don Constantine ’80. Battery of the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band. The new members are excited and ready to continue in the footsteps of those that came before them. Corps of Cadet Junior Jeffrey Pacht ’13, formerly a member of Company P-2, states, “F-1 is an amazing outfit. It’s the outfit that created the Corps Brass, which is a time-honored tradition in the Corps. It also created the Corps run, which is a run that happens before every football game,” added Pacht. Company F-1 has a long tradition of excellence, and the new members are anxious to leave their mark on the Corps as well. As the Corps continues to grow, it is foreseeable that other retired outfits may also make their return to the active Corps. In fact, the Corps has grown by more than 200 cadets during the 2011-2012 academic year. It is likely that as the economy continues to struggle, more students may look for leadership opportunities to help in their job searches or they may look for jobs in the military post-graduation. The Corps of Cadets is an excellent place to start building the skills necessary to succeed in life, whether that is in the military or otherwise. In fact, Brigadier General Joe Ramirez, Jr., ’79, states that, “If we continue the growth, then my intent is that next year I’ll stand up two more and we’ll continue this trend so I can start to bring back these units that have a long history and tradition. Nice to see that the tradition will continue and that the past may become new once again!
Texas Aggie Corps of Cadets Association
New Members of the CCA New Members as of Nov 1, 2011 - Feb 15, 2012
Reveille Lt Col William Brinkley ’76, USAF (Ret.) Mr. Francis Glick ’71
Colonel Mr. Thomas Benner Mr. Henry Case ’43 Mr. Robert Eubank Mr. Michael Frenz Mr. John Honea ’65 Mr. Michael Jordan ’84 Mr. Dale Knapp ’87 Mrs. Mary Jo Powell Mr. Larry Van Horn ’77 Mr. Stephen Vorwerk
Ol’ Sarge Mr. Donnie Dowell Mrs. Lorna Greenhalgh Lt Colonel Patrick Hamilton ’85 Mr. & Mrs. Nicholas Holmes CPT Ross Kinkead ’02 Mr. Jeffrey Kirkpatrick ’67 Mr. David Lackey ’71 Mr. Robert Lancaster ’73 COL Joseph Ledlow ’79, USA (Ret.) Mr. David Lewis II ’00 Mr. Samuel Little ’81 Mr. Andrew Lord Mr. Connor McCasland Mr. David Morrison Maj Kevin Nothstine ’91 Mr. Jeffrey Palermo ’01 Mr. Martin Perryman ’86 Mr. Chris Schuchart ’78 Mr. J Spitzer ’69 Mr. Richard Viney ’96 Mr. David Walk ’74 Mrs. Patricia Walker Howdy Colonel Level Members! Senior Dining In Honoring the
Class of 2012 Tuesday, April 24, 2012 at the MSC
Update from USAA: by LTC Gary Pasierb, USAA Military Affairs,S Officer Programs Manager Please accept out heartfelt thanks to each of you for your assistance and great support during the two days my team spent at Duncan and the Corps Center last Wednesday and Thursday. A total of 530 cadets, midshipmen and OC’s participated in our drawing for one $200 and three $25 gift cards from Best Buy. We facilitated cadets signing up for the door prize at our registration tables during the lunch and dinner meals at Duncan and in the Corps Center lobby. We also set-up our popular “Diamond Dig” game in the Corps Center Library. Our prize winners were: Cadet Brandon Nesrsta – Diamond ($1100 retail value) Cadet Wesley Carrera, NROTC (Navy) – $200 Best Buy Gift Card Cadet Matthew Jones, Army ROTC - $25 Best Buy Gift Card Cadet Shawn Miller, AFROTC - $25 Best Buy Gift Card Cadet Jacob Cybulski, NROTC (Marine) - $25 Best Buy Gift Card The organizational breakdown of attendees was as follows: Army ROTC – 190 AFROTC - 120 NROTC - 149 D&C Cadets - 71 About 200 of the 530 who entered our drawing engaged in meaningful individual sessions with our team of financial experts and received their best advice on a variety of issues affecting their future banking, insurance and investment needs. These are unprecedented numbers of interactions and were only made possible through the great support of the Commandant’s Staff (Col Byron Stebbins ’78 and Lt Col Jeff Gardner ’82) and our USAA affinity partners The Texas Aggie Corps of Cadets Association (Don Crawford ’64, Bill Gutierrez ’91, Valerie Blakey ’07, and Evan Shu ’11). Mr. Crawford ’64 allowed us to incorporate a special feature at our tables for the very first time by turning over distribution of the Class of 2013 co-branded CCA/USAA coffee mugs to us. We demonstrated USAA’s “Deposit @ Mobile” service and provided four $10 checks to students who were able to deposit those checks directly from the Library using either their personal smart phones or a USAA phone made available to them at the event. The USAA team was extremely impressed with the extraordinary courtesy and caliber of your cadets and midshipmen. Once again our sincere thanks to all of you for the great support. We spend a lot of time each year working these events, and frankly there is nothing better than Aggie hospitality. Finally, we can’t possibly express enough appreciation for all that you do to train and prepare our future military officers for their service to our nation.
www.corpsofcadets.org
the Guidon
33
CCA Corporate Sponsor Program Our Corporate Sponsor Program is an integral part of the success of the Texas Aggie Corps of Cadets Association (CCA) to full fill its mission to support the Corps of Cadets. The CCA provides all corporate sponsors with opportunities to support Corps and former Corps member programs. In return Corporate Sponsors receive online recognition on the CCA website and facebook pages. In addition, corporate sponsors receive through CCA publications like, the Guidon magazine and Quadrangle yearbook, plus annual Corps of Cadets and CCA events. If you have corporate contacts or names of individuals that process corporate sponsorships, please contact our office at 877-892-4222. One of our staff members will contact all referrals. Your assistance will be appreciated.
Texas aggie Corps of Cadets Association Corporate Partners
Gold
Silver
Silver
Aggies in Service
Aggies currently serving in Iraq/Kuwait. The picture was taken at COS ECHO, Iraq Oct 2011. Left to right: 2LT Eric Johnson ’09, 1LT Travis Carmical ’08, 1LT Dave Hapney ’09, Major John Williams ’97, Captain John Meehan ’06. All these Aggies are serving with the 1-82 Field Artillery, 1st Heavy Brigade Team, 1st Cavalry Division, from Fort Hood.
34
the Guidon
Aggies at Ranger School graduation. Pictured left to right is former Ranger School graduate, 2LT Gary Gorrel ’11, and recent Ranger School graduates 2LT Nicholas Lund ’10 and 2LT Scott Sippel ’10
Send your Aggies in Service Pictures to valerie@corpsofcadets.org
Texas Aggie Corps of Cadets Association
USAA is proud to be the
Exclusive Provider of Financial Services for the Texas Aggie Corps of Cadets Association (CCA)
The Corps takes care of its own. Recruit the card that helps. Sign up for the CCA USAA Rewards™ World MasterCard® and d take advantage of: • No annual fee1 • Purchase APR as low as 10.9%1 • 0% introductory APR for 12 months on balance transfers sfers and convenience checks made in the first three months hs (10.9% to 25.9% variable APR after that)1 • USAA Rewards points that you can redeem for your choice of cash, merchandise or other exciting rewards2 • Special deployment and PCS benefits
CCA MEMBERS: CC S
Get 2,500 rewards points after your first purchase with your CCA USAA A Rewards World MasterCard. 2
What’s more, USAA Bank contributes to CCA with every new account opened and with each eligible purchase, helping the organization advance the issues that are important to you.
Apply today. usaa.com/ccacc | 877-940-2677 Insurance Banking Investments Retirement Advice USAA means United Services Automobile Association and its insurance, banking, investment and other companies. 1
Offer subject to approval. As of 12/1/2011, regular APRs on purchases, cash advances and balance transfers are 10.9% to 25.9%, depending on your credit history and other factors. APRs will vary with the market based on the Prime Rate. There is a transaction fee of 3% on cash advances ($200 maximum on balance transfers and convenience checks) and 1% on foreign transactions. Rates and fees subject to change. Please contact us for the most current information. If your credit history and other factors qualify you for a credit limit under $5,000, you will receive a USAA Platinum MasterCard with the same rates and fees. 2Rewards points terminate if account is closed, delinquent or program ends. Earn 1 point for every $1 in credit card purchases. Other restrictions apply. USAA Rewards Program terms and conditions will be provided with your card. Use of the term “member” or “membership” does not convey any legal, eligibility or ownership rights. Availability restrictions apply. Purchase of a bank product does not establish eligibility for, or membership in, USAA property and casualty insurance companies. USAA Savings Bank, Member FDIC. CCA receives financial support from USAA for this sponsorship. © 2012 USAA. 135319-0112 the Guidon 35 www.corpsofcadets.org
PRSRT-STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID BRYAN TX PERMIT 71
1134 Finfeather Rd Bryan, TX 77803
Preserving the
Corps
your gift will help provide:
Recruiting Funds Corps PT Gear Quality of Life Cadet Programs Support for Corps Athletic Teams
Directly Impact the Corps Today! 36
the Guidon
www.corpsofcadets.org * 877.892.4222
Texas Aggie Corps of Cadets Association