Navy ROTC Mainstay 2018

THE MAINSTAY

University of Idaho & Washington State University

Unit

THE MAINSTAY

THE UNIVERSITY OF IDAHO AND WASHINGTON STATE UNIVERSITY

NAVAL RESERVE OFFICERS’ TRAINING CORPS UNIT

Commanding Officer’s Call

Vandal and Coug Alumni,

Greetings from the Palouse! As my first year at the Unit comes to a close, I am humbled and honored by the service and commitment of the Unit. Being directly involved with mentoring and developing our future fleet leadership is a passion of mine.

The year began with the annual Military Appreciation Football Games at both universities, and our students did not disappoint with their color guard performances. University of Idaho homecoming followed shortly thereafter, with the Unit marching in the parade through downtown Moscow. In October, we celebrated the Navy and Marine Corps’ birthdays in the International Ballroom of the Bruce Pitman Center on the Idaho campus, honoring one of our own, Kwiatkowski, on his retirement from the Moscow Police Department. In November and December, we participated in Toys for Tots, distributing toys to more than 70 local families. Prior to final exams, we held a holiday party in the WSU Junior Ballroom of the CUB to celebrate the holidays and reduce stress before finals.

Spring semester brought a mild winter and Seniors eager to commission. Between sending students to the Notre Dame Leadership Conference, Northwest Navy at University of Utah, Senior Mess Night, Spring Awards, the Semper Fi FEX, and the Joint Commissioning Ceremony, the Unit kept busy. Through it all, the students managed to achieve above a 3.30 cumulative GPA, demonstrating their continued pursuit of the highest academic standards.

A few notes:

Awards: Our students earned more than $10,000 in awards this year! Notable awardees include MIDN 2/C Nathaniel Fox winning the $4,000 AFCEA Medal of Honor scholarship and MIDN 2/C Dane Whetsel winning the $3,000 Admiral Emery Memorial scholarship. Well done!

Scholarships: MIDN 3/C Aurora Meuler, MIDN 4/C Jacob Fry, MIDN 4/C Janey Greenberg and MIDN 4/C Christopher Salcido were all awarded scholarships. MIDN 4/C Andres Salcido was awarded Advanced Standing. Congratulations—keep up the hard work!

Honors for Captain Samuel Phillips: On April 3rd, one of our own was killed in a helicopter crash in the Southern California desert. Capt Phillips was a 2013 University of Idaho graduate, assigned to HMH-465 in Miramar, California. The Unit held a memorial run for him on Friday, 27 April. Our deepest sympathy to his family.

75th Anniversary: We look forward to hosting the Unit’s 75th Anniversary in Fall 2020. Details will be forthcoming over the course of the next year.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the Unit!

-CAPT Shaun C. McAndrew, Commanding Officer

Fair Winds and Following Seas

Commander Leiker’s Retirement Farewell

Commander Leiker came to the UI/WSU NROTC Unit as the XO at the beginning of the Fall of 2016. He is a University of Idaho graduate. Emphasizing attention to detail, Commander Leiker would bestow his wisdom and regale us with tales from his time out in the fleet, both in and out of the classroom. His lessons showed us that there are many ways to be an effective leader. He would always push us to do our best and hold us accountable for our mistakes.

Due to Commander Leiker mitment to the students in the NROTC program, he was able to persuade Washington State University to accept the WSU students’ hard earned grades from their Naval Science classes here at the University of Idaho. This change positively affected the cumulative GPA of the WSU students and for that we are forever grateful. Sir, we wish you the best of luck in your future endeavors. Fair winds and following seas.

MIDN 3/C Matthew Meagher

Lieutenant Kessenich’s Farewell

The Unit would like to say a heartfelt goodbye to Lieutenant Joe Kessenich. Lieutenant Kessenich reported to the Unit in July 2015, and was an exceptional instructor and leader for the ROTC students, preparing them for the surface fleet. In his time at the Unit, he taught Navigation, Naval Operations and served as the Academic Adviser for the Sophomore and Junior class. His next assignment is Surface Warfare Officer’s School in Newport, Rhode Island, where he will be training to prepare for his Department Head tours. Fair winds and following seas.

- Unit Staff

Welcome Aboard!

Additionally, we will be welcoming two new officers to join our ranks this upcoming Fall. Lieutenant Rob Zielinski is joining us from the Surface Warfare community and recently finished his Division Officer tours aboard the USS New York stationed in Mayport, Florida. Lieutenant Johnathan Wargi is joining us as the Unit’s Nuclear Propulsion Officer, and recently finished his last tour on the USS Connecticut stationed in Bremerton, Washington. Welcome aboard Lieutenant Zielinski and Lieutenant Wargi!

Staff

Captain Shaun C. McAndrew, Commanding Officer

CAPT Shaun C. McAndrew, a native of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, was commissioned in 1993 from the United States Naval Academy with a Bachelor’s Degree of Science in Electrical Engineering. Completing her flight training at HT-8, she earned her designation as a Naval aviator in January 1996.

After flight school, she transferred to HSL-41 for fleet replacement pilot training. CAPT McAndrew was then assigned to HSL-43, San Diego, CA for her first fleet tour. Deploying twice, she completed her tour as the Assistant Operations Officer and NVG Program Manager. She transferred to Naval Support Activity (NSA), Bahrain flying UC-12M transport aircraft in May 2000. Continuing her contributions to the Global War on Terror, she remained in Bahrain, transferring to Commander, U.S. Naval Forces, Central Command/Commander, FIFTH Fleet staff in December 2002. As a Helicopter Warfare Officer, she was responsible for the intra- and inter-service coordination of rotary wing aircraft and Personnel Recovery missions for all Navy personnel operating in the FIFTH Fleet AOR. During Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, CAPT McAndrew was the Combined Forces and Maritime Component Commander’s Rescue Coordination Center Director.

For her department head tour at HSL-37, she served first as Administrative Officer, then Detachment THREE Officer-in-Charge embarked in USS Port Royal (CG 73), and ultimately as Operations Officer. During PORT ROYAL’s FIFTH Fleet deployment, her detachment provided 59 continuous days on-station executing oil platform security operations and monitoring the southern Iraqi oil infrastructure. CAPT McAndrew was then individually augmented for a year to Multi-National Forces Iraq (MNF-I) as part of the Resource Management staff.

CAPT McAndrew became the liaison between the MNF-I Resource Management office and MultiNational Security Transition Command Iraq (MNSTC-I) Comptroller’s office. She assisted the MNSTC-I comptroller’s office in the coordination of the Iraq Security Force Fund, a direct multiple fiscal year Congressional Appropriation, totaling $15 billion of programming authority. The appropriated funds developed the nascent Defense and Interior Ministries and their Security Forces to stabilize Iraq. She was selected for operational command during her tour in Iraq.

Reporting to HSM-41 in October 2008, she transitioned to the MH-60R Seahawk, later assuming duties as Executive Officer. CAPT McAndrew commanded HSM-41, the west coast fleet replacement squadron, from September 2010 to December 2011. During her command tour, she assisted three squadrons in completing their transition from the SH-60B to MH-60R, had more than 30 aircraft assigned, and trained over 250 pilots and aircrew. After command, she was assigned to the OPNAV Plans and Policy staff representing the Navy’s interests in Global Defense Posture. CAPT McAndrew graduated from the National War College with a Master’s Degree in National Strategic Studies. She then served as the First Battalion Officer at the United States Naval Academy where she was responsible for the professional development of 750 Midshipmen and taught Ethics and Moral Reasoning for Naval Officers. CAPT McAndrew reported to the University of Idaho NROTC Unit as Commanding Officer in July 2017.

CAPT McAndrew’s personal awards include the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Strike/Flight Medal, Navy Commendation Medal (4 awards), Air Force Achievement Medal, Navy Achievement Medal, Joint Service Achievement Medal and various unit commendations and service/ campaign awards.

Commander David Leiker, Executive Officer

Commander Leiker is a native of Santa Rosa, CA and enlisted in the Navy in 1989. After service aboard USS Chosin (CG 65), he was selected for the Broadened Opportunity for Officer Selection and Training (BOOST) Program and was commissioned in December of 1998 at the University of Idaho, Moscow, ID.

Afloat, Commander Leiker served as Executive Officer in USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44), Chief Engineer in USS Underwood (FFG 36) and as an Engineering Assessor, Engineering Assessments, Atlantic. Earlier sea duty includes USS Chosin (CG 65) where he served as a Gas Turbine Systems Mechanic, Second Class in the pre-commissioning crew; USS Nicholas (FFG 47) as Combat Information Center Officer and Auxiliaries Officer; and USS Donald Cook (DDG 75) as Fire Control Officer.

Ashore, Commander Leiker served at Commander, Operational Test and Evaluation Force as the Operational Test Director for Consolidated Afloat Networks and Enterprise Services (CANES) and most recently completed duty as the Deputy Operations Officer for Commander, Naval Surface Force, Atlantic in Norfolk, VA.

Commander Leiker holds a Master of Science Degree in Systems Engineering from the Naval Postgraduate School and is Phase I certified in Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) from the Naval War College. He is a June 2016 graduate of the National Defense University’s Dwight D. Eisenhower School for National Security and Resource Strategy where he earned the Master of Science Degree in National Resources Strategy in addition to completing JPME Phase II.

After years away from the Palouse, Commander Leiker returned to Moscow and reported to the University of Idaho NROTC Unit as Executive Officer in July 2016.

Commander Leiker has been awarded numerous personal decorations and unit awards representative of the outstanding men and women he has had the distinct honor of serving with including the Meritorious Service Medal (2 Awards), the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (3 Awards), the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (3 Awards), and the Battle Efficiency Award (4 Awards).

Lieutenant Joe Kessenich, Surface Warfare Officer

From Madison, Wisconsin, Lieutenant Joe Kessenich graduated and commissioned out of the NROTC Unit at the University of Illinois in 2011 with a Bachelors of Science in Technical Systems Management. After commissioning, he was assigned to USS Chancellorsville (CG 62) as the Main Propulsion Division Officer, where he served from 2011-2014. Onboard Chancellorsville, he completed one Western Pacific deployment and modernization and repair period. Following Chancellorsville, he reported to USS Cowpens (CG 63) as Ship’s Navigator. Here, he completed an additional Western Pacific deployment and modernization and repair period. Lieutenant Kessenich reported to the University of Idaho in July 2015. His decorations include the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (two awards), and various service and campaign awards.

Lieutenant Mark Mooring, Aviation Officer

Lieutenant Mark “Smokey” Mooring, a native of Rome, Georgia, enlisted in the Army National Guard in his senior year of high school and after a year in the Army he reported to the U.S. Naval Academy. Lieutenant Mooring then graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 2008 with a B.S. degree in Political Science.

Following primary training in Corpus Christi, TX with the VT-27 Boomers, Lieutenant Mooring reported for intermediate training in Meridian, MS with the VT-9 Tigers. While in Meridian he selected the multi-engine pipeline and was awarded “Top Hook.” Lieutenant Mooring then reported to the VT-31 Wise Owls in Corpus Christi, TX where he received his Wings of Gold in October of 2010.

Lieutenant Mooring arrived at his first sea command, the Rawhides of VRC-40 of Norfolk, VA in February of 2012. During his tenure at VRC-40 he deployed twice in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM with Detachments THREE and FOUR in support of USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) and USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75). Lieutenant Mooring held the billets of Assistant Administrative Officer, Quality Assurance Officer, Aircraft Division Officer, and Assistant Operations Officer.

Lieutenant Mooring reported to NROTC University of Idaho in March of 2015 where he is serving as the Aviation Officer. His personal awards include the Navy Achievement Medal (two awards) as well as various unit, service, and campaign medals. He has accumulated nearly 1100 total flight hours and over 100 arrested landings.

Lieutenant David R. Baird, Nuclear Propulsion Officer

Lieutenant David “Wills” Baird was born in Atlanta, GA and attended Bishop England High School. After graduating in 2007, Lieutenant Baird attended the U.S. Naval Academy where he graduated with a B.S. in Arabic in 2011.

In May 2011, Lieutenant Baird reported to Naval Nuclear Power Training Command in Charleston, SC to begin power school. Following completion of power school, Lieutenant Baird reported to the Submarine Officer Basic Course in Groton, CT for three months. Lieutenant Baird completed his initial nuclear training at the MARF Nuclear Power Training Unit in Ballston Spa, NY in August 2012.

In September 2012, Lieutenant Baird reported to the USS Ohio (SSGN 726 Gold Crew), homeported in Bremerton, WA but forward deployed in Guam. While onboard USS Ohio, Lieutenant Baird served as the Assistant Engineer, Damage Control Assistant, Main Propulsion Assistant, and Diving Officer. Lieutenant Baird completed three overseas deployments, a one-year Major Maintenance Period, Sea Trials, and numerous tests of recently installed system upgrades. Lieutenant Baird reported to NROTC University of Idaho in November 2016 where he is serving as Assistant Professor of Naval Science and Nuclear Propulsion Officer.

Captain Bradley Dunlap, Marine Officer Instructor

Captain Dunlap enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in September 2003 and following recruit training in MCRD San Diego was assigned as an Aviation Ordnance Technician at VMFA- 122, Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, SC. Captain Dunlap deployed to Iwakuni, Japan with his VFMA 122 in 2005 and again in 2006. While serving with VFMA 122, he was recognized as the Honor Graduate for Corporal’s Course MCAS Beaufort, winner of a 1st Marine Air Wing Meritorious Sergeant Board, and selected to MECEP in 2006. In 2011 Captain Dunlap graduated with a B.A. in Philosophy and Political Science. Following graduation, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant and completed The Basic School (TBS), graduating as the company Gung Ho recipient. Upon graduation of TBS, he was assigned as a Combat Engineer, graduating with distinction from the Combat Engineer Officer Course at Camp Lejeune, NC, in February 2013 as the Cornelius Award recipient. As a Platoon Commander for 3rd Platoon, Bravo Company, 2d CEB, Captain Dunlap was assigned as the Battalion Engineer in support of 2/6 for a combined arms integrated training exercise at Twentynine Palms, CA in 2013. In March 2014, Captain Dunlap deployed as the S-3A and Regional Command Southwest Route Clearance Coordinator aboard Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan, in support of OEF. Following the OEF deployment he was assigned as the XO, Alpha Company before being transferred to 8th ESB. At 8th ESB

Captain Dunlap served as Company Executive Officer for Engineer Support Company, and Battalion Assistant Operations Officer. Captain Dunlap was then assigned as an Individual Augment as a Military Observer for the UN Mission in Liberia in 2016. Upon return from the UN deployment, he returned to 8th ESB and was assigned as the Company Commander for Engineer Company, and later Commander of Alpha Company.

Captain Dunlap reported to the University of Idaho NROTC as the Marine Officer Instructor in June of 2017. Captain Dunlap’s personal decorations include the Joint Meritorious Commendation Medal and Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal.

Staff Sergeant Jose Ruiz, Assistant Marine Officer Instructor

Staff Sergeant Ruiz was born in Mission Hills, California. He enlisted in the Marine Corps on 12 December 2005 and attended recruit training at MCRD San Diego and MCT at Camp Pendleton. Following completion of MCT, he attended MOS school at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri for Motor Vehicle Transport Operator.

In May 2006, Staff Sergeant Ruiz received orders to 9th Communication Battalion where he deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. In November of 2007, he received orders to Marine Headquarters Group and deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. In January 2010, Staff Sergeant Ruiz received orders to Drill Instructor School. Upon graduation, he was assigned to 3d Battalion Mike Company. Other assignments include Combat Logistic Regiment-1 and Fort Leonard Wood, MO. Staff Sergeant Ruiz checked aboard the University of Idaho Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps Unit in April 2017.

His personal decorations include Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals with three gold stars in lieu of fourth award, and Army Achievement Medals.

Civilian Staff

Marilyn Startin is from Pullman, Washington. She joined the University of Idaho NROTC Staff in 2005 as the Administrative Assistant.

John Nesler spent 26 years active in the Air Force Ammo and Safety communities before retiring as a Master Sergeant. He joined the University of Idaho NROTC Staff in 2011 as the Supply Officer.

Leonard Johnson spent four years enlisted in the Army and over nine years supporting Air Force satellite programs with the M.S. he earned in Space Studies. He joined the University of Idaho NROTC Staff in 2015 as the Administrative Coordinator.

Evelyn Simon is the Unit’s Human Resources Assistant. She joined the University of Idaho NROTC Staff in 2015.

Fall Battalion Commander’s Call

Fall semester, the Battalion hit the ground running. The turnover was an absolute whirlwind, but the Battalion adapted and overcame which made me immensely proud. I was assisted in my duties by an excellent Midshipman staff, all of whom were a pleasure to work with. Our semester milestones included out-shining the Army and Air Force ROTC programs in both the homecoming parade and POW/MIA ceremonies, beating UI Army and Air Force in flag football, an excellent birthday ball put together by MIDN Whetsel, and multiple hikes and a field exercise by the Semper Fi platoon, led by MIDN Marten. The Fall semester also welcomed to the Battalion SSgt. Brandon Shaughnessy, OC Bailey Scott, OC Rennie Scott, and OC John Ashby. The four have been an excellent addition to our already strong enlisted members of the Battalion. Towards the end of the semester we started the planning phases of implementing a new battalion billet and recognized MIDN Haldorson as Battalion Member of the Semester for her hard work and dedication.

I wish to extend my gratitude and appreciation to the Unit staff that mentored and guided me during my tenure as Battalion Commander. In closing, I also want to thank the Battalion for their patience and adaptability with me. I am humbled to have had the privilege of leading such a fine battalion and wish you all the best in your future careers as naval officers, Semper Fidelis.

MIDN 1/C Kaiser Baker

Spring Battalion Commander’s Call

The Spring 2018 semester was full of new beginnings and opportunities to improve the professional development of the Battalion and start moving more towards a “fleet like” atmosphere. With the introduction of our new Commanding Officer, CAPT McAndrew, the Battalion was able to make some impactful changes to daily operations. CAPT McAndrew coined the Battalion’s new motto, “Think Forward, Think Excellence”, and the Battalion was able to take this motto with them throughout the semester, as we started to piece together the ins and outs of what it means to lead in the world’s finest Navy and Marine Corps! With the help of the Unit Staff and Active Duty members, the Battalion Staff was able to take charge and ownership over our new vision as future officers.

On April 5th, 2018, the Battalion loaded a charter bus to make the 12+ hour trek to the University of Utah for the annual Northwest Navy Competition. The journey started off with a great opportunity for Battalion bonding and watching several action-packed movies! The day of competition was full of rain, sweat and many cheers from the enthusiastic MIDN/ MECEPS/OCs as they cheered on each of our teams that were competing throughout the day. Although we took home 2nd place overall, the Battalion’s hard work and commitment preparing to compete did not go unnoticed! The Battalion’s comradery and appreciation for one another was strengthened and the entire weekend was full of Unit and Navy/Marine Corps pride!

In my short time serving as the Battalion Commander, I was given a new sense of appreciation for the hard work and dedication it takes to lead and lead well. I am very thankful for the support of the entire Battalion and the work they put in to improve themselves and the entirety of the Unit. I will never forget this honorable opportunity and my fellow shipmates that made it all worthwhile!

MIDN 1/C Alyse Bailey

Summer Training

CORTRAMID

During the summer Midshipmen go on summer cruises to give them some experience as to what it means to be a Naval Officer. During the summer of 2017 roughly 600 Midshipmen attended CORTRAMID West in San Diego, California. During this four week period, training was divided into Marine week, Aviation week, Surface week and Submarine week. These four weeks provide an opportunity for 3/C Marine and Navy Midshipmen to get to meet Midshipmen from other units and see what opportunities the Marine Corps and Navy provides.

During my first week all the Midshipmen in Alpha and Bravo company were bused to Camp Pendleton to learn about the Marine Corps. At one point Midshipmen also went to Miramar to see the different aviation platforms offered by the Marine Corps, but the rest of the time was at Camp Pendleton. While at Camp Pendleton, Midshipmen shot countless rounds of ammunition and familiarized themselves with the different ground vehicles the Marine Corps has to offer. At the end of the week all Midshipmen went through the Infantry Immersion Trainer to simulate a patrol in the Middle East. At the end of Marine week Midshipmen returned to Naval Base San Diego.

During the second week, Aviation, Midshipmen spent most of their time at Naval Air Station North Island. This included flights in a T-34 training aircraft and a flight in an MH-60 Seahawk. One of the highlights of the week was easily the T-34 ride, because Midshipmen were able to take control of the T-34 for a few minutes and perform simple maneuvers with instructor supervision. Midshipmen also were given the opportunity to fly around San Diego in simulators and even perform barrel rolls in helicopters, in the simulator of course. My aviation week was cut a little short due to Memorial Day and bad weather, but it was still my second favorite week at CORTRAMID, Marine Week being the first.

Submarine and Surface weeks were the third and fourth weeks and each provided very unique experiences for Midshipmen. Most of Submarine week was classified, but during Surface week Midshipmen got to tour two Littoral Combat Ships and meet Vice Admiral Rowden. Midshipmen will have a lot of free time during Surface week, but there are still a lot of opportunities to take advantage of. The ship tours were the most fun and best informative opportunities I had on CORTRAMID.

CORTRAMID offers a lot of opportunities that not very many 18, 19 and 20-year olds get to do. It is up to the individual to make the most of the summer training and optimize all of the time that they are given. There is quite a bit of down time waiting to shoot guns or fly in the T-34, but this is the time when Midshipmen should be taking the opportunity to learn. Socializing with other Midshipmen is one of the best ways to pass the time, and it builds a social network. I got to know Midshipmen literally from all over the country. CORTRAMID is full of learning experiences, but it is up to the Midshipmen as to how they are going to go about it.

MIDN 3/C Sean Conner

Mountain Warfare Training Center

Mountain Warfare Training Center (MWTC) is the secondclass cruise for all rising third-year Marine Options; its physical and mental challenges are meant to prepare Midshipmen for the rigors of Officer Candidate School. MWTC was founded during the 1960’s in an effort to help train Marines for the high altitudes and unforgiving environments of Korea. MWTC, located in Pickle Meadows, California, sits 6,800 feet above sea level in dense mountainous terrain making it ideal territory to develop warfighting doctrine and test specialized equipment used in mountain and cold weather operations.

The Unit sent six rising third-year Marine Options to MWTC for their second-class cruise, and each of us were positively distinguished for our ability to lead. While there were difficult challenges and tests at MWTC, the training that we had received from Semper Fi Club and the leadership lessons we learned from Captain Roubal gave us a distinct advantage. In every task from hiking to rappelling to survival training, Midshipmen from the University of Idaho and Washington State University NROTC always led the pack.

In conclusion, MWTC was an excellent experience as it gave us the opportunity to sharpen our leadership skills and prepared us for Officer Candidate School.

MIDN 1/C Dane Whetsel

Aviation Cruise

For my first-class cruise, I spent one month with VFA 122 in Lemoore, California. VFA-122 is a training squadron for F/A 18 fighter pilots and NFOs. I was with five other Midshipmen all from the East Coast. During this time, I spent time learning about the inner workings of a squadron, the systems on the aircraft, and what a pilot’s everyday responsibilities are. I spoke with the officers learning about the various jobs an officer would have in addition to flying. I had a great time with all the other Midshipmen and Officers while flying and learning about what they do when they are not flying!

The squadron made sure that we got as many flights and simulations as possible. We were able to get many hours inside the flight simulator and went on two flights total. My first flight was with a United Kingdom Air Force Pilot, and he was so much fun to fly with. The US Navy and the UK have an exchange program, so that is how I was able to fly with LT “Woody” Woodsforth. We flew out over the Sierra Nevada Mountains and did some low level maneuvers through the mountains and ended up near a dry lake bed for some aerobatics. It was so amazing! I even had the same controls in the back of the jet and was given the opportunity to pilot the aircraft myself. It was incredible.

My time in Lemoore really helped my decision to pursue Naval Aviation. I enjoyed the lifestyle, the traditions and most of all the flying! I am looking forward to joining the ranks soon.

MIDN 1/C Alyse Bailey

Submarine Cruise

For my second class cruise, I had the opportunity to be aboard the USS Providence (SSN 19). I was with seven other Midshipmen from schools scattered across the country with me being one of two Midshipmen from the West Coast. After arriving in Melbourne, Florida, we settled in and got our first look of the boat we’d be on for the next five days. The next day, we left our rooms, loaded into a van, and arrived at the boat to load up at 0600. With our sea bags stowed away and our coveralls on, we began our day. During the first few hours, we were able to watch as the crew went about their duties and the boat left port. Once out of port and off the coast of Florida, the Providence submerged and the true nature of the submarine was shown.

The majority of the cruise was a transit cruise, heading up from Florida to Groton, Connecticut. Over these five days of average submarine procedures, we learned the basics of how to go about the boat. That silence and learning to make space is essential to moving about. Much of my time was spent on the bridge, in the engine room, and my bunk. One of the more memorable events that happened was a fire drill, calling all hands to stations as we watched the crew leap into action. The importance of training and communication was stressed here as the crew completed the important training.

From this experience, I will remember the professional and welcoming environment that this submarine crew had formed. The knowledge gained from picking the minds of the crew and the lessons learned from casual conversations will forever be an important aspect I will remember.

MIDN 2/C Zachary Cutter FOREX Cruise

The world is a big place, full of many different cultures, each of which have their own way of life. I had the pleasure of exploring Japan and interacting with the JMSDF (Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force) as well as the people of Japan for my FOREX cruise. My FOREX cruise differed from what most others would be. Normally a FOREX cruise would entail staying on a foreign powers seagoing vessel, but I was scheduled to stay on the USS Stetham for the majority of of my two-week cruise. It began with a long flight into Tokyo, where I met up with ten other Midshipmen. We then had a long drive through Tokyo traffic to get to Yokosuka Naval Base, where the USS Stetham was berthed. There we were assigned Junior Officer running mates and shown our racks. The first week followed a set pattern. We were required to undergo area orientation training, which was a three-day course that upon completion would allow us to leave base and explore Japan. For that first week, the mornings involved attending Khaki Call in the morning and observing our running mate for a few hours until the AOB (Area Orientation Briefing) began, which took up a majority of the day. Once the training was complete, however, we were able to go off base into Japan in the evenings. Interacting with the locals was an amazing experience, and seeing the large cultural differences made me realize just how large the world was.

The main duration of my cruise involved this cycle, observing and learning in the morning and exploring in the evening, with a few events spread throughout, such as a tour of the base command, which happened to be old tunnels from WW2, a tour of the nearby JMSDF base and ships, or RHIB and tug boat rides. The entire cruise culminated in a trip to JMSDF OCS, located on Etajima, close to Hiroshima. There we lived the life of a Japanese Officer Candidate for two days, seeing the ins and outs of how they run their commissioning program. We toured the facilities there, seeing the Japanese Naval History Museum, which provided a very different view of history compared to what I was accustomed to. We interacted with many of the Officer Candidates there, most of who spoke English very well. Just like ROTC, they come from all walks of life, all working toward a common goal. The similarities I could draw between there and the NROTC Unit were as significant as the differences.

Unsurprisingly, this first-class cruise was one of the best experiences of my life. Experiencing another culture as well as seeing how a foreign military institution is run was a spectacular experience, as well as being able to further familiarize myself with my own Navy’s procedures to further my own training. This cruise had a large influence on me and the path I will take when it is my time to join the fleet, and I hope that when I finally do join the fleet I will be setting foot on my first ship in no other place than Yokosuka, Japan.

Second Class Surface Cruise

During the summer, two other Midshipmen and I were given the opportunity to attend a second class surface warfare cruise. Our cruise took place aboard the USS Pearl Harbor (LSD 52). Our cruise was unique because we were attached to the Pearl Harbor as it was participating in a post-maintenance period certification exercise prior to leaving on deployment.

During this certification exercise, we observed every type of operation that an amphibious ship could conduct over the course of a deployment. We witnessed flight operations, drug interdiction drills, emergency response procedures and even had the chance to go ashore on a Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC).

One notable experience aboard the USS Pearl Harbor was participating in an underway replenishment (UNREP). The Midshipmen were assigned as line handlers to have a firsthand view of what happens between two vessels during an UNREP. While serving as a line handler I was amazed at the amount of strength, endurance and teamwork necessary to handle the lines between the two ships and astounded by the fact that the two vessels could be controlled in such close proximity to each other.

The final most notable experience of my summer cruise was observing the ballasting of the ship and the launching of LCACs from within the well deck. While working with the deck department I was able to witness the ballasting of the ship. To launch the LCACs, we were required to lower the stern of the ship and take on water in the well deck.

My 2nd class cruise was a very notable experience because of the ongoing operations aboard the USS Pearl Harbor. I was able to observe a full range of Navy and Marine Corps operations and how they are used to accomplish missions throughout the world. This experience will prove invaluable to me upon commissioning into the US Navy.

MIDN 2/C Michael Shiflet

Officer Candidates School

Part of the road to becoming a 2nd Lieutenant in the Marine Corps is being screened and evaluated in order to ensure the best quality of officers. As a Marine Option Midshipman in the NROTC program we are all required to attend and graduate from Officer Candidate School (OCS) in Quantico, Virginia. All Marine-option Midshipmen attend OCS, a six-week training program that is designed to test all candidates on their leadership potential, physical fitness, academic excellence, and mental and physical courage. From the moment the candidates step foot on Brown field they are being evaluated by the staff assigned to OCS as well as their peers. One of the most difficult tasks is leading a group of your peers, one thing OCS teaches very well. Orders to OCS comes with the expectation of competition and chaos. The intent is not to avoid failure completely, but to develop the skills to overcome it and improve yourself as a leader.

I attended the second increment of OCS during the Summer of 2017. While the stories and hype of Brown field and the intensive training that occurs was definitely accurate, the training and preparation I have received during my time in NROTC set me up for success. There was nothing I felt unprepared for while at OCS, for that I can thank our staff as well as the MECEPs of our NROTC Unit.

Although OCS puts candidates through rigorous training and very strict and busy schedules it can still be a fun and rewarding experience if you have the right mentality. Those who train alongside you become more than rack mates or platoon members, you become a family and you learn to work together rather than individually. OCS can be a great experience, and when those candidates who worked hard and fought through the physical and mental challenges of the training cycle finally receive their Eagle, Globe, and Anchor and the title of Marine, it is one memory they will never forget.

MIDN 1/C Kaiser Baker

New Student Orientation

Their clothes were neatly laid out and alarms set as they crawled into bed early with racing minds. On the evening of August 15th, 2017 there was a handful of prospective Midshipmen who were anticipating the following day’s arrival. Each of these incoming freshmen’s summers had led to this point. Whether they were ready or not, tomorrow was the start of the University of Idaho and Washington State University’s Naval Reserve Officers’ Training Corps New Student Orientation (NSO).

After arriving to orientation the following morning, each student was greeted, provided a name tag, and ushered into a classroom with their parents where everyone would receive a presentation from the Unit’s Commanding Officer (CO). Captain McAndrew introduced herself and proceeded to give a presentation about what Naval ROTC is all about, specifics regarding the Unit, and what the students could expect as Midshipmen attending college.

Following the CO’s presentation, there was no introduction necessary as the Unit’s Assistant Marine Officer Instructor, Staff Sergeant Ruiz, took charge. Everyone in attendance became quickly familiar with the Staff Sergeant. “Take your shoes off! Put your shoes on! Take your shoes off! Get out! Get back! Get out!” Under the direct supervision of Staff Sergeant Ruiz, the students made their way over to the tennis courts while being instructed on the importance of sounding off, responding then doing, and moving with a purpose. Once at the tennis courts, the students were taught the basics of drill. The rest of the day’s activities included briefs on military indoctrination, weapons handling, and college preparation. Bright and early the next day, the students were provided an introduction to Physical Training (PT) here at the Unit and in the military. The day continued on with instruction of weapons handling. Each student became proficient in the five weapons safety rules and the four conditions of a weapon. The prospective Midshipmen received further drill instruction, new student advising, uniforms, and administrative paperwork that was to be filled out. The students ended the day on a high note at the range where each student had the opportunity to shoot a handgun.

Finally, it was the last day of NSO week. The prospective Midshipmen arrived early to Guy Wicks Field that morning. Some tension could be felt in the air as everyone anxiously awaited the Physical Fitness Assessment that would be conducted shortly. Now was the time to demonstrate their physical abilities. All eyes were on them. The assessment came and went. Later that day was the ceremony in which the prospective Midshipmen took the oath, joined their platoons, and officially received the title of Midshipmen 4/C. NSO week came to a close after some further General Military Training (GMT).

NSO week served as an introduction to not only Naval ROTC and college, but to the military lifestyle. NSO week provided an opportunity for the fourth-class Midshipmen to gain camaraderie and make lasting memories. As one of the Midshipmen who attended NSO week, I can say that there is no way I would have rather started my college experience and career in the military.

MIDN 4/C Katherine Marks

Navy/Marine Corps Birthday Ball

On the evening of Saturday the 14th of October 2017, the University of Idaho NROTC celebrated the 242nd birthday of the United States Navy and Marine Corps. The Navy/Marine Corps ball is a time-honored tradition in which Sailors and Marines can take the night to remember, honor, and celebrate the fallen, the serving, and the United States Navy and Marine Corps. And of course, it allows service members to let loose to an extent and have a great time!

The evening started off with a cocktail hour. During this time, the Battalion along with their respective guests located their seats, grabbed some refreshments, and socialized amongst each other. Each Midshipman took the time to converse with their superiors and introduce guests. At the close of the cocktail hour, Midshipman Newman asked the Battalion to take their seats for the commencement of the ceremony. The ceremony consisted of the presentation of the colors, a moving presentation of the POW/MIA table by SSgt Clark, the presentation/cutting of the birthday cake, and a video address by the Chief of Naval Operations and a video address by the Commandant of the Marine Corps. The ceremony was a reminder to Sailors and Marines of the beloved tradition that they uphold and carry on every day.

Following the ceremony, the CO escorted the Guest of Honor to the deliver his address to the Battalion. The Guest of Honor this year was LT Paul Kwiatkowski, who was retiring from the Moscow Police Department. LT Kwiatkowski is a University of Idaho Alumni, Naval veteran and Police Officer. After he was done talking, CAPT McAndrew presented him with a gift and the Moscow Police Department also presented him with a gift. After the Guest of Honor was presented with the gifts, dinner was served, and the dancing began. The dancing continued throughout the rest of the night and was a fitting end to the celebration of the Navy and Marine Corps’ 242nd birthday.

MIDN 4/C Andres Salcido

Montford Point Challenge

The Montford Point Challenge was created to honor sacrifice and heroism of more than 20,000 African American Marines who trained at Montford Point, North Carolina from 1942 to 1949. The Montford Point Challenge is a timed event, which covers a total distance of three miles. During this event, Midshipmen, Officer Candidates and MECEPS alike started by carrying ammo cans that weighed anywhere from 20-40 pounds. After completing the first mile, they transitioned from carrying ammo cans to a 10foot log as a team. Once completed with mile two, they carried a stretcher which weighed approximately 150 pounds for the last mile. This event is a team building exercise, meant to instill a sense of pride and camaraderie among the Battalion. During this event, each team has a unit leader that is in charge of leading their squad through the events. Every battalion member’s leadership skills are put to the test in a controlled environment to better understand how they must adapt to their surroundings in the ever-changing stressors of leadership.

SSgt Brandon Shaughnessy

Notre Dame Leadership Weekend

This year, our Unit sent Midshipman Baker, Midshipman Fox, and myself to the 23rd Annual Naval Leadership Weekend at the University of Notre Dame. The conference this year was slightly different than years past because the biggest snowstorm of the season hit the area and there was a short government closing that happened the day before the event. As a result, some of the active duty guests were unable to attend. Those who spoke included the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy, Steven Giordano, the Founding Director of Inspired Leadership Initiative at Notre Dame, Tom Schreier, SgtMaj Donna Dunbar (USMC, Ret.), the Director of the Office of Military and Veteran Affairs at the University of Notre Dame, Regan Jones, the Co-Director of Inspired Leadership Initiative at Notre Dame, the CoFounder of the Keurig Premium Coffee System, Chris Stevens, and the Mayor of South Bend Indiana, Mayor Pete Buttigieg. This year’s conference included lectures from the previously listed speakers, ethical decision games and speeches from a Junior Officer (JO) panel that included JOs from every restricted line community in the Navy as well as one retired Marine Corps Captain.

The speakers at this event provided us with some extremely valuable lessons in leadership and some great advice for being successful as Naval Officers. The weekend ended with an amazing keynote dinner and speech from the Director of Public Sector Engagement for the Drucker Institute, Lawrence Greenspun. Although many of the original speakers were unable to attend this year’s Naval Leadership Weekend, it was still an extremely valuable experience and I would definitely attend again if I had the chance. The weekend was an amazing opportunity to interact with Midshipmen from all around the country, and is something that I will always remember and cherish. I am extremely grateful for being able to attend this conference and highly recommend that everyone volunteer for this event in the future.

MIDN 2/C Parker Simon

OC Gettmann Promotion

On August 25th, we took the regular time out of our PD session to witness the promotion of OC Gettmann to Chief. Being a MIDN at an ROTC unit, this is a very unique and humbling experience that we do not get to see very often. It helps serve as a reminder to the men and women that are out in the fleet right now doing their jobs, protecting us back home. Being promoted to Chief is an immense accomplishment in a sailor’s career, and actually getting to see this happen was an amazing experience. As for the event itself, the entire battalion stood at attention while the promotion was read. His family was there to pin on his rank, take pictures, and eat a delicious cake afterwards.

While I do not know OC Gettman on a personal level, what I have seen from him on a professional standpoint during ROTC events never fails to disappoint. He always exhibits the highest traits of a becoming naval officer, and serves as a role model for the entire battalion.

MIDN 2/C Dylan Burger

“Holla Day” Party

The 2017 Holla! Day party was a family and friend-filled event that took place in December 2017 to celebrate the end of the Fall semester, as well as the upcoming holidays. This event was a time for the Battalion to come together as a whole and share in food and fun. In total, 13 gingerbread villages were created and over four dozen sugar cookies were decorated. There was a holiday raffle, where very cute ugly sweaters were won by three lucky battalion members. We can’t wait to celebrate in 2018!

CAPT Duncan Visit

On November 17th, 2017, the Unit was pleased to host Captain Curtis Duncan at our weekly professional development session. CAPT Duncan is a veteran submariner and the Director, Nuclear Programs for Naval Service Training Command office for Officer Development and served on USS Norfolk (SSN 714), USS Louisiana (SSBN 743) and USS Columbus (SSN 762) before commanding the USS Key West (SSN 722) from 2010 to 2013.

In his talk, CAPT Duncan spoke about life as a submarine officer and more generally about being a nuclear officer. Drawing from more than two decades of Naval service, he provided valuable lessons on leadership and success as a junior officer, punctuated by humorous or pointed sea stories. Following the talk, CAPT Duncan toured the mechanical and electrical labs with a small group of nuclear program hopefuls.

With decades of experience and command at sea, CAPT Duncan's down-to-earth wisdom provided useful leadership lessons to all, and the look behind the curtains of nuclear accessions answered many questions for the nuclear hopefuls. So thank you to CAPT Duncan, Run Silent, Run Deep and Go Vandals!

OC John Ashby

Naval ROTC VS Army ROTC Football

The Naval, Air Force and Army ROTC units at Washington State University and the University of Idaho competed in an intramural flag football tournament against each other. Navy first played WSU Army at the Valley Roads Playfields on the WSU campus. Navy then played Air Force and then UI Army in the Kibbie dome on the UI campus.

The first game against WSU Army did not go well. WSU Army defeated Navy 47-0 with multiple interceptions. Navy was able to rally and defeated Air Force 7-0 with Midshipman Hurd scoring the crucial touchdown.

The third and final game was against UI Army and was by far the closest. Navy was able to win this game with a score of 7-6. Midshipman Hurd made the much-needed touchdown putting Navy in the lead. UI Army responded with a touchdown of their own. Midshipman Wesseling was able to sack the quarterback preventing Army from getting the extra point to tie the game. Navy’s defense was then able to hold Army back for the rest of the game for the win.

MIDN 3/C Matthew Meagher

Northwest Navy Overview

Northwest Navy is the annual competition that brings all of the NROTC units in the Pacific Northwest together. It consists of a mix of military and sporting events, with the military events counting for more points. This year the competition was held in Salt Lake City, Utah over the weekend of April 6-8 and included a tour of the A-10 and F-35 at Hill Air Force Base.

After a 12-hour bus ride, the Battalion finally arrived at Hill Air Force base! The Depot staff took time out of their day to give us tours of the A-10, F-16, and F-35 hangars. This was a valuable opportunity for the students to see how military aircraft repairs are performed. Later that day was the Opening Ceremony. Here the Midshipmen, MECEPs, and OCs from UI/WSU were able to meet students from the other schools, as well as catch up with students they had connected with over summer cruise.

Saturday was event day! This year we competed in the Physical Readiness Test, Swimming, Combat Fitness Test, Soccer, Basketball, Pistol Marksmanship, Academics, Volleyball, Color Guard, Close Order Drill, and Tug-of-War. Each of the teams had prepared over the semester, and was eager to compete. After a day of intense competition, UI/WSU had won the CFT, Volleyball, Color Guard, and Tug-of-War, and had fought admirably in all events. Midshipman Hurd also took home the individual CFT award. The competition culminated with a rousing victory in Tug-of-War. The team did not lose a single round!

After the points were tallied, UI/WSU had earned a second place finish. We did not meet our goal of winning first place, but the event was a fun time that increased the Battalion’s cohesion and team-oriented mindset. Next year’s event will be held in Moscow, and we hope to become the champions again.

MIDN 2/C Nathaniel Fox

Academics

Coming off of a win in the NWN Academics Bowl the year prior, the academics team set out for a consecutive victory. The six of us, armed with questions from year’s prior and a fire in our hearts, set to work to maintain our academic prowess over our fellow schools. Many an hour was put into the study of the questions, as well as attempting to adjust to a change of format into a more jeopardy-style format of competition. Confidence surged as we became more and more familiar with the format and began to master the questions of which we could find.

Once the fabled day arrived and the Academics Bowl began, it became clear that we were not as ready for the new format as we had thought. Many an error was made in the first half, resulting in a halftime score of -200 for us, 1400 behind the lead. Double jeopardy in the second half proved much more forgiving, allowing us to control the board and choose a majority of the categories. A string of bad luck and incorrect answers cost us the win, putting us square into second place.

In the end, the Academics Bowl was a great learning experience for the team. Next year can learn greatly from the lessons taught this year, which may not have been resoundingly victorious, but can be considered successful nonetheless.

MIDN

1/C

Markus Fornelius

Basketball

The basketball team played hard last year in Corvallis, but finished a disappointing fourth place. As team captain, I wanted to improve on that this year. The team practiced weekly this semester, and benefited from an influx of talent. Midshipmen Mauss, Fry, and Newton, along with SSgts Shaughnessy and Mallard and OCs R. Scott and Ashby, were all new to Northwest Navy. Our first game of the event was against the University of Utah. After a slow start, we found ourselves in a large hole at the half. After Captain Dunlap made some lineup changes, we began to gain some momentum. SSgt Shaughnessy hit multiple 3-pointers, and OC Ashby and Midshipman Baker’s defense was important. Though we lost the game, we outscored Utah in the second half. The team built on this and started our game against Oregon State University all working together. All played well, and we took the win. The victory came with a cost, however. OCs Scott and Brewer, as well as myself, all sustained injuries. While we lost to the University of Washington in our last game, the team played hard and did not back down from the perennial basketball champion Huskies. Overall, our third place finish was an improvement over last year.

MIDN 2/C Nathaniel Fox

Color Guard

The color guard event is one of the various military competitions that is included in Northwest Navy. This event places teams from University of Washington, University of Utah, Oregon State University, and University of Idaho/Washington State University against each other in a competition that determines which school most expertly carries the flags of the Navy, Marine Corps, and United States.

Three Navy-option Midshipmen and two Marine-option Midshipmen comprised the color guard team from UI/WSU NROTC . The team consisted of Midshipman Mauss, Midshipman Shiflet, Midshipman Conner, Midshipman Newman, and Midshipman Lester.

The color guard team began practicing in January, with time for less than 12 practices before the competition at University of Utah. Even with this difficulty, the team performed admirably at the Northwest Navy competition. Through their preparation and dedication they placed first in the competition, returning the color guard trophy to University of Idaho for the second year in a row.

MIDN 2/C Michael Shiflet

Combat Fitness Test

After a dominant victory in 2017, the pressure was on to defend the CFT trophy in Salt Lake City. The Northwest Navy CFT team started practicing in January, focusing heavily on improving the member's 800 meter run times to mitigate the effect of the high elevation the team would be performing at. Although the team only had two returning members from the previous years, everyone on the team trained with a purpose from day one. Although the semester's events interfered with the early Saturday morning practice times, the team continued to show their dedication by performing the weekly workout whenever possible.

When it was time to compete, the team knew that nothing less than one hundred percent effort would result in a victory. The team performed above and beyond expectations, once again sweeping the competition due to the well-rounded fitness of the team members. The improvement shown by many team members in the short few months of work leading up to the competition was truly outstanding. This hard work once again resulted in both an overall victory and the top male competitor honors for University of Idaho/Washington State. It was a pleasure coaching the CFT team once again, and I look forward to continuing the tradition of success next year.

MIDN 2/C Matthew Hurd

Physical Readiness Test

This year’s Northwest Navy PRT team consisted of MIDN Burger, Greenberg, A. Salcido and myself. The team worked hard in the months leading up to the competition to increase their push-ups and sit-ups and we performed very well against our opponents at Northwest Navy. This year, the run was weighted higher than the calisthenics, and the thin, high altitude air of Salt Lake City brought our times down. One of Oregon State’s team members ran the fastest PRT run time I had ever seen, which bumped up their score up significantly, meaning we did not win the competition. I am proud of our teams preparation and performance in the PRT, and next year we will prepare more for the run and bring the trophy back home to U of I.

MIDN 2/C Parker Simon

Pistol Marksmanship

The pistol marksmanship competition had not taken place at Northwest Navy for a number of years, so we came to win. Practice was held every Thursday morning starting in late January. From the time we started to the time we left, we expended over 5,000 rounds of ammunition amongst the five-team members. The team consisted of OC Daniels, MIDN Shiflet, MIDN Ellis, and MIDN Gluth making up the team with MIDN Hanscom serving as the alternate.

The competition was tough this year. The other ROTC units had trained just as hard as we had so the stress level was high. This would be our downfall. Everyone excelled on the 10 and 15 yard targets, but once we moved out to the 25 yard target it was hard for a few of the shooters to stay steady and relax. Overall, we placed third, with Utah coming in first and University of Washington barely getting second.

MIDN 3/C Logan Hanscom

Regulation Drill

The close order drill team for Northwest Navy 2018 was composed of a wide range of Midshipmen, including the Freshmen class and pre-OCS Marine Options. All the members of the close order drill team worked hard to prepare for the competition. During every practice, whether it was early in the morning or out in the freezing cold, all members of the team displayed the highest levels of enthusiasm and commitment to excellence. The drill team gave many Midshipmen the opportunity to display their leadership and make positive contribution to the Battalion.

Among those who did an exceptional job were the drill team’s squad leaders: Midshipmen Hurd, Martin, and Wesseling. Our outstanding performance would have been impeded, however, if it had not been for the guidance of Staff Sergeant Ruiz and the other MECEPs. Every day these individuals encouraged and mentored junior Midshipmen.

When it came time to perform at University of Utah the drill team performed flawlessly and University of Idaho and Washington State University NROTC earned second place in the competition. It has been my honor and privilege to serve as the close order drill commander, and I look forward to seeing the team do even better next year!

MIDN 1/C Dane Whetsel Soccer

The soccer team this year performed very well! It was a competitive process to get on as 18 people tried out, and the team only had room for 12. We practiced for 10 weeks through the winter weather in order to prepare for the festivities in Salt Lake City, but it just wasn't enough. We came in 3rd place, only sustaining one injury, and enjoying the games. The only team we beat was Utah, but that was good enough to not come in last. The team represented the Battalion well, with a few Midshipmen from each class, which was great for unit cohesion.

MIDN 1/C Matthew Stachura

Swimming

The swim team started off the NWN competition hitting the water bright and early. The team competed in six different events with some members participating in multiple events. The first two of the six events were the Men’s and Women’s Individual Medleys, which consisted of swimming 50 yards of the Butterfly, Back, Breast, and Freestyle strokes. The third event was a Mixed Medley consisting of the same distances and strokes as the Individual Medley but with two males and two females. The fourth event was a 200-yard Mixed Freestyle with two males and two females swimming 50 yards each. The last two events were a Men’s and Women’s Individual 100-yard Freestyle. Midshipman Conner, a sophomore, competed in the Male’s Individual Medley. Even though Midshipman Conner was new this season to the complex Butterfly stroke, he learned quickly and was able to compete. Midshipman Meuler, a junior, competed in the Females Individual Medley. Midshipman Bailey, a Senior, competed in the Mixed Medley swimming the freestyle portion, as well as competing in the Mixed Freestyle. Midshipman Wesseling, a junior, competed in the Mixed Medley swimming the Butterfly stroke, Mixed Freestyle, and the Men’s Individual Freestyle competitions. Midshipman Newman, a sophomore, competed in the Mixed Medley swimming Breast stroke as well as the Mixed Freestyle. Midshipman Haldorson, a freshman, competed in the Mixed Medley swimming Backstroke, Mixed Freestyle, and Women’s Individual Freestyle competitions. Special congratulations to Midshipman Haldorson who placed second in the Individual Freestyle competition. The members of the NWN Swim Team learned a lot from training and competed well, and it will soon be time for them to train others.

Tug of War

After a hard-fought loss in 2017 the 2018 Tug of War team had a goal of taking home the championship this year. They did just that with an impressive display of strength, coordination, and

SSgt James Armstrong

Volleyball

The 2018 UI/WSU Northwest Navy Volleyball team killed it in Salt Lake City this year! The team worked together and pushed their limits to take home first place in the round-robin tournament against the other three competing schools. Communication was key in their victory. It was evident to all that the UI/WSU team was the loudest and most enthusiastic team on the court. Some key players in the weekend’s event were Midshipman Bailey, who led the team in the most aces, Midshipman Greenberg, with some stellar back row digs and plays, and OC Brewer, who used his height to his advantage to shut down the other team’s offensive hitters. Another great last-minute addition to the team was SSgt Mallard. “I am good at volleyball,” SSgt Mallard said, and he was indeed. Overall, the volleyball team used teamwork, positivity, and communication to take home the win at the 2018 Northwest Navy.

Senior Mess Night

The mess night is a tradition that can be traced back hundreds of years. Traditionally, it was conducted after a major military victory. In more recent history, the mess night evolved into a celebration of comradery between peers within the Navy and Marine Corps, where members of the mess share a good time over food and drinks. The 2018 Senior Mess Night was an event that included senior standing Midshipmen preparing for commissioning. This year it was hosted at the Courtyard-Marriot in Pullman because the graduating class was made up entirely of WSU students. The mess night included a catered dinner, a cash bar, and two grog bowls of the Senior class’s own concoction; where members of the mess were fined for violating one of the many rules of the mess.

Present for this year’s mess night was CDR Alex Greig (USN ret.), who served as the Executive Officer of the UI/WSU NROTC Unit for the first half of the Senior class’s time in the Unit. The class invited him to be the Guest of Honor for the mess night because of the mentorship and leadership he provided during his time as XO and the continued support he provided to the Class of 2018 since his departure. For the Senior class, CDR Greig’s presence was important and his attendance was one element that made mess night a truly unique experience.

MIDN 2/C Michael Shiflet

Spring Awards

As per tradition, the fifth annual Spring Awards Banquet took place on the last Friday in April. This event is meant to celebrate the end of a long school year and recognize the achievements that have been made by the Battalion throughout the year. The event started with the annual Battalion photo with the beautiful Palouse in the background. Next, the Battalion performed its Change of Command ceremony, which gave the guests an opportunity to see how the role of Battalion Commander is passed from one Midshipman to another. After an amazing buffet dinner, the presentation of awards was started, with over 15 different awards being presented, and more than $15,000 in scholarship money being awarded to deserving members of the Battalion. After all of the awards were presented, the graduating seniors were given the opportunity to honor a professor who has mentored them during their time in the NROTC Unit. The Spring Awards Banquet is an amazing tradition and a great way to celebrate a successful school year.

MIDN 2/C Parker Simon

University of Idaho Homecoming Parade

WSU and UI Veterans Day Ceremony

75TH Anniversary Note

The Unit is looking forward to hosting the 75th Birthday Anniversary Ball in Fall 2020! With the success of the 70th Birthday Anniversary held in 2015 with over 60 alumni in attendance, the 75th is sure to please. We are looking forward to attending the University of Idaho Military Appreciation Football Game, enjoying a round of golf on the University’s golf course, and celebrating the Unit’s birthday. Details of date, time, events, and location will be promulgated in the 2019 Mainstay. We look forward to seeing you there!

The Battalion marched in the University of Idaho Homecoming Parade on October 7th, 2017 through downtown Moscow.

Battalion members honored military veterans at Washington State University and University of Idaho Veterans Day ceremonies on November 9th and November 10th.

Spring Commissioning

On May 11, the Unit commissioned ENS Bailey, ENS Cox, ENS McKay, ENS Gettmann, 2ndLt Armstrong, 2ndLt Baker, and 2ndLt Craig. The joint commissioning ceremony was held at the University of Idaho’s Memorial Gymnasium. CAPT Warren E. Sisson, III, Commanding Officer of the Oregon State NROTC Unit, was the guest of honor and imparted wisdom and advice for the new Junior Officers. Best of luck in the Fleet shipmates!

-Unit Staff

University of Idaho/Washington State University

Newly Commissioned Officers

Bachelor of Science in Biology from Washington State University. Her first assignment is Naval Flight School in Pensacola, Florida.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from Washington State University. His first assignment is Naval Nuclear Power School in Charleston, South Carolina.

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Washington State University. His first assignment is the USS RAMAGE (DDG 61) at Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia.

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Washington State University. His first assignment is Naval Flight School in Pensacola, Florida.

Ensign Alyse Bailey

Ensign Matthew Cox

Ensign John McKay

Ensign Mark Gettmann

University of Idaho/Washington State University

Newly Commissioned Officers

2nd Lieutenant James Armstrong Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Washington State University. His first assignment is The Basic School in Quantico, Virginia.

2nd Lieutenant Kaiser Baker

Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Washington State University. His first assignment is The Basic School in Quantico, Virginia.

2nd Lieutenant Marcus Craig Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Washington State University. His first assignment is The Basic School in Quantico, Virginia.

Battalion Members

Officer Candidates and Navy Option Midshipmen

OC Ashby OC Brewer

OC Gettmann

MIDN Atterberry

MIDN Burger

MIDN Benavidez

MIDN Bailey

MIDN Cutter

MIDN Cox

MIDN Fornelius

OC Daniels

MIDN Ellis

MIDN Greenberg

MIDN Gluth

MIDN Fox

MIDN Haldorson MIDN Hanscom MIDN Kroon

MIDN Meuler MIDN Mauss

OC B. Scott

OC R. Scott

MIDN McCoy

MIDN McKay

MIDN Meagher

MIDN Miyashiro

MIDN Newman

MIDN Newton

MIDN A. Salcido

MIDN C. Salcido

MIDN Shiflet

MIDN Simon

MIDN Stachura

MIDN Wonenberg

MECEPs and Marine Option Midshipmen

MIDN Wesseling

SSgt Shaughnessy

MIDN Silbernagel

MIDN Marks

MIDN Lester

MIDN Hurd

MIDN Gervaise

MIDN Craig

MIDN Fry

MIDN Conner

SSgt Clark

MIDN Buyers

MIDN Baker

SSgt Armstrong

MIDN Whetsel

Captain Samuel “Delay” Phillips Memorial

8 December 1990—3 April 2018

Captain Samuel Durand Phillips, 27, of Pinehurst, North Carolina joined the Marine Corps on 23 August 2013. He graduated from the University of Idaho with a BS in Business Operations Management. Upon graduation, he attended The Basic School in Quantico, VA from Dec 2013 to Jul 2014. He then went through Naval Aviation Flight Training at Naval Air Station Whiting Field, FL from Jul 2014 to Aug 2016. Upon graduation he was assigned as a Cargo Helicopter (CH) 53E Super Stallion helicopter pilot and was transferred to Marine Heavy Helicopter Training Squadron (HMHT) 302, MCAS New River, NC for CH-53E flight training from Sep 2016 to Feb 2017. While at HMHT-302, he was assigned as the S-1 Adjutant Assistant.

After his tour of duty at MCAS New River, he was assigned to Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron (HMH) 465, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, MCAS Miramar, CA as a CH-53E Pilot and S-3 Schedule Writer. While at HMH-465, he participated in exercise Dawn Blitz 2017 off the coast of Southern California, and exercise Summer Fury 2017 at Naval Air Facility El Centro, California.

On 3 April 2018 he was killed as a result of a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter crash in the vicinity of El Centro, California.

Captain Phillips was posthumously promoted to the rank of Captain on 6 April 2018. His hobbies included surfing, playing golf, corn hole, cooking, fishing, flounder gigging, and making people laugh. He is survived by his girlfriend Katie Motsko; parents Michael and Phyllis Phillips; sister Angela Pickersgill and husband Eric; paternal grandfather Bunn Tate Phillips; and his nephew Corbin Pickersgill.

-Marine Corps

About the Funds

Please direct questions to the Administrative Office at 208-885-6333 or navyrotc@uidaho.edu.

University of Idaho

Naval ROTC General Fund: Donor generosity is an essential source of funding for events such as the NavyMarine Corps Birthday Ball, Commissioning Ceremonies, New Student Orientation, and other student led events.

Roderick Mayer Naval Alumni Scholarship: The Roderick Mayer Alumni Scholarship is awarded to a Navy option student and includes a $2000 scholarship. CDR Mayer graduated and commissioned from the UI in 1961 with a degree in mathematics. An F-4 Phantom pilot, he flew more than 70 combat missions over North Vietnam. CDR Mayer was shot down on October 17, 1965, and while initially being classified as a POW, CDR Mayer’s status was changed to KIA. Today, his flight jacket hangs proudly in the UI NROTC spaces.

Alex Wetherbee Memorial Scholarship: This scholarship is given to a Marine option that shows exceptional leadership and academic acumen, studies forest or natural resources at the UI, has a great love of the outdoors, and includes a $2500 scholarship. The Alex Wetherbee memorial scholarship is dedicated to 1stLt Alexander E. Wetherbee. Upon graduation from the NROTC program at UI, 1stLt Wetherbee was assigned to the 3rd assault amphibian battalion at Camp Pendleton, CA. On his second combat deployment to Iraq, 1stLt Wetherbee was fighting as a platoon commander near Fallujah when he was KIA on September 12th, 2004.

Don Campbell Leadership Award: The Don Campbell award for leadership is given to both a Navy-option senior (Naval Officer’s sword) and junior ($500 scholarship). CAPT Donald Stile Campbell Jr. was a previous Professor of Naval Science at the University of Idaho. He served aboard ships and submarines and served his command tours aboard USS CONYNGHAM (DDG 17) and USS CAMDEN (AOE 2). CAPT Campbell passed away in 2009 from natural causes.

Murphy-Sweet Memorial Scholarship Endowment: This award is given to a member of the battalion who demonstrates leadership, academic achievement, and a sense of community, including a $485 scholarship. Born on November 5th, 1967, CDR Philip Murphy-Sweet’s long Navy career began with his enlistment and assignment as a US Navy Corpsman in 1984. While stationed in Iraq, CDR Murphy-Sweet suffered fatal injuries from an Improvised Explosive Device during Operation Iraqi Freedom and died on April 7th, 2007.

Washington State University

Navy ROTC Scholarship Fund: These are funds donated by individuals or entities and not funded by the university. This fund is strictly used for scholarships only.

Craig Gmur Memorial Scholarship: This award is given to a member of the battalion who shows an exceptional ability to balance academic rigors and ROTC obligations and includes a $500 scholarship. ENS Craig Gmur was a WSU Alumni and graduate of the NROTC program. An MH-60S pilot, he died in a car accident on November 3rd, 2007 at the age of 24.