Navy ROTC Mainstay 2021-2022 by The University of Idaho

THE MAINSTAY University of Idaho & Washington State University NROTC Unit 2021-2022

THE MAINSTAY THE UNIVERSITY OF IDAHO AND WASHINGTON STATE UNIVERSITY NAVAL RESERVE OFFICERS’ TRAINING CORPS UNIT

Amish Smith, Marine Officer Instructor 11

Master

Thomas Ernst, Surface Warfare Officer 9 Lieutenant Donald Olsen, Nuclear Propulsion Officer 10

Captain

Sergeant Sergio Molina, Assistant Marine Officer Instructor 12 Fair Winds and Following Seas 13 Lieutenant Justin Holmes, Aviation Warfare Officer 13 Civilian Staff 14 Summer Training 15 OCS (Officer Candidate School) 15 First Class Surface Cruise 15 Marine Month 16 Second Class Surface Cruise 17 First Class EOD Cruise 17 CORTRAMID 17 New Student Indoctrination (NSI) & New Student Orientation (NSO) 18 Road Side Cleanup 21 POW/MIA Ceremony 22 WSU and UI Veterans Day Ceremony 22 Master Sargent Molina Promotion 23 Semper Fi Fall FEX 24 Fall Culminating Event 25 Navy and Marine Corps Birthday Ball 26 Battalion member of the Fall Semester 27 Battalion member of the Spring Semester 28 Semper Fi Spring FEX 29 Spring Culminating Event 30 Northwest Navy 31 PRT Team 32 Volleyball Team 32 Soccer Team 33 Color Guard 33 PFT Team 33 Ammo Can Relay 34 Basketball Team 34

Price J. Lockard, Commanding Officer 7

1 Contents Commanding Officer’s Call 3 Fall Battalion Commanding Officer’s Call 5 Spring Battalion Commanding Officer’s Call 6 Staff 7

Commander

Anthony Rabaiotti, Executive Officer 8

Lieutenant

2 Contents Ultimate Frisbee 34 Summer Whites Inspection 35 Senior Mess Night 36 Spring Awards Ceremony 37 Fall Commissioning 38 Spring Commissioning 39 University of Idaho/Washington State University Newly Commissioned Officers 40 Battalion Members 42 Officer Candidates and Navy Option Midshipmen 42 MECEPs and Marine Option Midshipmen 44 77th Anniversary Save the Date 46 About the Funds 47 Donations 49 USS IDAHO Commissioning 51

The NROTC battalion won victories over both Air Force and Army ROTC units as we returned to the football competition against our sister military units on campus.

Commanding Officer’s Call

The battalion continues to set high standards and our students continually put in the hard work to reach and exceed our goals. As a unit, we earned an overall 3.37 GPA last year, with a record number of students achieving highest marks on their physical fitness and combat fitness tests. It was invigorating to see our young men and women push themselves and constantly motivate one another as we remain focused on building habits of excellence in everything that we do. It was a privilege to have graduates from our unit return to the Palouse as guests of honor for various events over the last year: CAPT Elaine Collins, Commodore DESRON NINE and a ’96 WSU alumna, celebrated the Navy and Marine Corps birthday ball with us in Pullman. VADM (ret) William Bowes, an Idaho ’63 alum, joined us for Senior Mess Night festivities and shared his leadership advice with our senior class. CAPT William Fraser, Commander of Tactical Support Wing and a ‘95 Idaho grad, returned to Moscow to speak to new officers and their families at the spring commissioning ceremony. The Spring Awards banquet was special this year as the Idaho NROTC graduating class of ’62 – an impressive and generous group who have remained tight knit over the years joined us. It was a real pleasure to spend time with the ’62 alumni and their families at the 60th anniversary of their commissioning. The Idaho and WSU Navy and Marine Corps battalion continues to prosper and excel. Our color guard and the battalion had the privilege of leading the 2021 Idaho homecoming parade. We were happy to have the crew of USS IDAHO, SSN 799, joining us during homecoming week. The IDAHO Commanding Officer presented the battalion with an oil painting of past and future ships bearing the USS IDAHO name and it is proudly hanging on the wall in our spaces.

Greetings from the Palouse, I hope this issue of the Mainstay finds you in good health. The 2021 2022 school year was eventful and successful, fully back to normal, and packed with battalion activities.

CAPT Price J Lockard

Overall it was a great year for the battalion: visiting the Acoustic Research Laboratory facilities on Lake Pend Oreille; listening to former Defense Secretary James Mattis speak at WSU about our great nation; witnessing our AMOI’s promotion to Master Sergeant; and participating in community volunteer efforts like Toys for Tots, roadside cleanups, food drives and myriad service projects. This is a great team and I am very proud to be part of it. Please join us September 2nd and 3rd, 2022 here on the Palouse for our NROTC Unit’s 77th Anniversary celebration. Festivities will include a golf scramble, a banquet, a tailgate event before the Vandals and Cougs football game, and the game itself. Look for additional details in this issue of the Mainstay. In closing, thank you to all of the benefactors, alumni, and supporters of every kind who so charitably give back to our NROTC Unit. Your support truly makes a positive impact in the quality of life of our students. On behalf of the future naval leaders who benefit directly from your generosity, please accept my thanks and appreciation. Esto Perpetua.

After a two year hiatus, our annual Northwest Navy competition was held in Seattle where we enjoyed the rivalry and camaraderie of this tradition with our peers from Utah, Oregon State, and Washington.

Approaching the Fall 2021 semester, our battalion knew the important task laid out ahead of us. Our unit looked back to the past, before COVID restrictions, to understand the best elements of the command culture, and began to write a new chapter in battalion history. This chapter is a testament to perseverance and resourcefulness as leaders in our unit brought us back to in person operations after a full year of social distancing. Before school started, we sent battalion members back into the fleet as the force overcame the challenges of COVID and resumed summer cruises. Through adversity, we came out on top every time we were tested. Our accomplishments gave us the motivation to strengthen our warrior culture back at home on the Palouse.

MIDN Chris Salcido

When we celebrated the Navy ball in November, less than half of our battalion members were familiar with its rich tradition, and far fewer members had experienced our spring events, including Northwest Navy and Spring Awards. Despite the lack of experience, planners and battalion members energetically rallied for every occasion, creating cherished memories. From my leadership position, I saw examples of resolve and camaraderie at every level. Everywhere I looked, battalion members were exemplifying the tenacity that the Navy and Marine Corps strive to attract. Here’s to our unit, and may our future generations come to take pride in what our team accomplished.

Fall Battalion Commanding Officer’s Call

We hit the ground running with a demanding weekly schedule and every member met their individual challenges without slowing down battalion operations. Those of us charged with planning and executing battalion policy leaned on each other to keep moving towards a common vision for a more capable battalion than before the pandemic. This task was shared with our Unit Staff who, like us, had never seen a situation like this before. Incorporating new points of view to revise some antiquated policies and clarify others, we slowly brought the UI/ WSU battalion back to life.

MIDN Andrew Sayre

Spring Battalion Commanding Officer’s Call

Nevertheless, these future leaders did not shy away from the challenge and proudly embraced the struggles and sacrifices needed to carry out the mission of our unit. We saw the emergence of a Squad of the Semester program, implemented by Battalion SgtMaj, MIDN Joshua Figueredo, who awarded SSgt Tompkins and his squad for excelling in the areas of academics, physical fitness, and military bearing. A desire to further educate and develop our unit’s Navy option midshipmen on relevant topics was fulfilled with the creation of Semper Fo, thanks to MIDN Clavenna’s efforts. MIDN Jones, L. demonstrated tremendous initiative in developing his semester plan for Professional Development by dedicating several Friday mornings to an intensive and stepwise war gaming activity. Battalion members were educated on the Marine Corps Planning Process and then placed in small teams, where they collaborated on an operations order based off of a fictional war game scenario. These events, in addition to a talk from General Mattis, the 12 Mile Hike and FEX, the Culminating Event, interservice flag football, Senior Mess Night, and Spring Awards were all very successful and beneficial to our unit’s cohesion and comradery. It was Northwest Navy during a rainy April weekend in Seattle, however, that was truly our biggest event of the year, at least by measurements of planning. This friendly but strong competition between all four NROTC units of the Pacific Northwest would not have been possible without the efforts of the NWN coordinator, MIDN Dzuris, and all the various team captains. Thank you to the battalion and to the unit staff for your dedication, and I look forward to seeing all of you in the fleet. Semper Fidelis.

The spring 2022 semester was unsurprisingly characterized by a full operations calendar and motivated individuals willing to plan and execute essential battalion functions. Overall, there was a great emphasis placed on small unit leadership and personal initiative. I had the privilege seeing just how dedicated and creative our battalion members really are. Most, if not all, newly implemented ideas came from people other than those in staff positions. For three fourths of the battalion, this was the first “normal” spring semester due to the hindrance created by the COVID 19 pandemic.

CAPT Price Lockard enlisted in the Navy in April 1988 and served as an Electrician’s Mate aboard USS MICHIGAN (SSBN 727, Blue) at NSB Bangor after nuclear training in Orlando and Idaho Falls. He studied Electrical Engineering at the University of Idaho, graduated magna cum laude in 1996, and earned his Naval Aviator wings in 1998. Operationally, his tours include: Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron ONE (VQ 1) at NAS Whidbey Island; Assistant Strike Operations Officer aboard USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT (CVN 71) at NS Norfolk; tours with Special Projects Patrol Squadron ONE (VPU 1) at both NAS Brunswick and NAS Jacksonville. He commanded Special Projects Patrol Squadron TWO (VPU 2) at MCB Kaneohe and commanded a combined aviation task force as Commodore CTF 57 headquartered in Manama, Bahrain. Ashore, Lockard’s assignments include: student at U.S. Naval Test Pilot School (Class 124); Test Team Lead for the Special Programs office in Air Test and Evaluation Squadron TWO ZERO (VX 20) at NAS Patuxent River; VQ Detailer, VT Placement and Assistant Captain Detailer in PERS 43 at Millington; and the Joint Staff J35, Joint Operations Directorate at the Pentagon. He is a graduate of U.S. Navy War College in Newport, RI where he earned a M.A. in National Security and Strategic Studies. As a career surveillance and reconnaissance pilot, he has accumulated more than 5700 mishap free flight hours, completing numerous deployments in support of operations Southern Watch, Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom, Inherent Resolve, Restoring Hope and fleet objectives. He assumed command of NROTC University of Idaho and Washington State University in August 2020. CAPT Lockard and his wife, Rhonda, are the proud parents of five children.

Staff Captain Price J. Lockard, Commanding Officer

Completing lateral transfer in 2005, he was stationed at Naval Branch Health Clinic Naval Training Center, San Diego, CA from 2005 to 2009 as Division Officer of Podiatry. His second tour was as Orthopedics Department Head, Naval Health Clinic Annapolis, MD from 2009 to 2012. Commander Rabaiotti then completed an overseas tour as the Orthopedics Department Head and Staff Podiatrist at United States Naval Hospital Sigonella, Italy from 2013 to 2016. After returning from Europe, Commander Rabaiotti was assigned as a student to the College of Naval Warfare at the Naval War College, Newport, RI, where he earned a Master of Arts Degree in National Security and Strategic Studies and an AQD in Middle East studies. He has completed a tour as staff Podiatrist at Naval Branch Health Clinic Naval Training Center, San Diego, CA from 2017 to 2019. Currently, he is stationed in Moscow, Idaho as the Executive Officer for the NROTC programs of the University Idaho and Washington State CommanderUniversity.Rabaiotti

Commander Rabaiotti was commissioned in 2001 after completing Officer Candidate School in Pensacola, Florida and his initial duty station as a Commissioned Officer was as the Main Propulsion Officer (MPO1) aboard the USS Detroit (AOE 4) stationed in Earle, New Jersey. He commissioned as a line side Surface Warfare Officer due to absence of Podiatry billets at the time. He qualified as Surface Warfare Officer and Engineering Officer of the Watch (steam) aboard the USS Detroit and deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. His second tour was as the Damage Control Assistant (DCA) aboard the USS Hopper (DDG 70) stationed Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. He deployed for second time in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

Commander Anthony Rabaiotti, Executive Officer Commander Anthony Rabaiotti, a native of East Providence, Rhode Island, attended Quinnipiac University, Hamden, Connecticut, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology (Pre Medicine). In 1998, he completed his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree from Des Moines University and also completed a second Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. After completing residency at the Togus VAMC in Augusta, Maine, he worked in the civilian sector as a Podiatrist in New York City, New York.

’s military decorations include: The Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (two awards), Naval and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (three awards) and various unit awards. He is a member of the American Podiatric Medical Association and is board certified by the American Board of Multiple Specialties in Podiatry. He is currently licensed to practice Podiatry in New York State. He is married to the former Miss Sasha Daugherty of Merna, NE. They have two children; Alexander and Gabriella.

Lieutenant Thomas Ernst, Surface Warfare Officer

LT Ernst reported onboard the guided missile cruiser USS SHILOH (CG 67) for his first tour as a division officer in December 2016. While onboard SHILOH, he served as the Combat Information Center Officer, Main Propulsion Officer and Auxiliaries Officer.

Upon the completion of his first tour, LT Ernst received orders to the destroyer USS HIGGINS (DDG 76) to serve as her Navigator and Executive Department Head. As Navigator, LT Ernst completed an 18 month Major Maintenance Period, Navigation Certification, a full training cycle and a homeport shift from San Diego to Yokosuka, conducting over 60 sea and anchor details onboard HIGGINS and as the activing Navigator onboard USS O’KANE (DDG 77).

LT Ernst reported to Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps unit at the University of Idaho in September of 2021 where he is serving as Assistant Professor of Naval science and Surface Warfare Officer.

LT Thomas Ernst is a native of Edmonds, Washington. He is a graduate of the United States Naval Academy, where he earned his B.S. in History with a minor in Japanese Language. While a Midshipman at Annapolis, he was selected for an intensive 6 month language program at the Japanese National Defense Academy in Yokosuka in partnership with the Japanese Self Defense Forces and was a recipient of the State Department's Critical Language Scholarship to study Japanese at the University of Shiga Prefecture in Hikone, Japan.

While onboard, he cross decked onto USS HARRY S. TRUMAN (CVN 75) during their 2018 summer deployment. He participated in operations above the Arctic circle while working on his nuclear qualifications. Upon returning to CVN 71, he became the Reactor Laboratories division officer. This tour involved underway periods for the filming of Top Gun 2, execution of Operation Northern Edge, and a 2020 deployment to the Western Pacific which included a historic visit to Vietnam.

LT Donald Olsen, a native of Charlotte, NC, graduated from North Carolina State University in 2014 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering. He received his commission through OCS in 2014 after participating in the Nuclear Propulsion Officer Candidate Program.

As a nuclear surface warfare officer, he served in several division officer assignments onboard USS BAINBRIDGE (DDG 96) from 2014 to 2016. During that time, he participated in one deployment to the AFRICOM AOR, the Submarine Commander’s Course as an opposition force, Fleet Week Port Everglades, and Fleet Week New York. After a year at Power School and Prototype, LT Olsen served onboard USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT (CVN 71).

Lieutenant Donald Olsen, Nuclear Propulsion Officer

LT Olsen is currently on shore duty serving as the Nuclear Propulsion Officer for University of Idaho and Washington State University’s Navy ROTC Unit. He is progressing toward a Master’s degree in Engineering Management from University of Idaho.

LT Olsen is proud to have served with USS Theodore Roosevelt when her crew earned the Battle Efficiency “E”. His personal awards include three Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals. LT Olsen and his wife, Ashley, have two daughters; Claire and Alice.

Captain Amish Smith, Marine Officer Instructor

Private First Class Smith trained at the 1st Reconnaissance Battalion until receiving orders to the Amphibious Reconnaissance School in Fort Story, VA in May of 2005. After successfully completing the school Private First Class Smith was assigned the MOS 0321 and sent back to the 1st Reconnaissance Battalion. In March of 2006 Corporal Smith returned from deployment to Camp Pendleton and received orders to the Marine Combatant Dive School and Survival, Evasion, Resistance, Escape School. After completing both courses Corporal Smith began pre deployment training for his next Iraq deployment with 2nd Platoon, Bravo Company, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion. After his last deployment Sergeant Smith returned to Camp Pendleton in November of 2007, and received orders to Sergeants Course, the Army’s Long Range Reconnaissance and Surveillance Leader’s Course, and the Army’s Basic Airborne Course. After completing these courses, Sergeant Smith was assigned to 3rd Platoon, Alpha Company, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion. During pre deployment training Sergeant Smith completed Special Operations Training Group’s Dynamic Assault Course and Urban Reconnaissance Course.In March of 2009 Sergeant Smith returned from the MEU and received orders to the School of Infantry West for instructor duty at the Basic Reconnaissance Course. After attending Combat Instructor School Sergeant Smith was assigned the 0913 Marine Combat Instructor MOS. During his tenure Sergeant Smith was promoted to Staff Sergeant, achieved his Senior Instructor Certification, and attended Military Free Fall School in Coolidge, AZ, and the Career Course at the Staff Non Commissioned Officer Academy. Staff Sergeant Smith was selected for the Marine Enlisted Commissioning and Education Program in 2012. After attending the Officer Candidacy Course Staff Sergeant Smith received orders to the University of Idaho in Moscow, ID. Gunnery Sergeant Smith earned his degree in History and Philosophy, and commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in May of 2016. In August of 2016 1stLt Smith reported to the Basic Officer Course in Quantico, VA. 1stLt Smith graduated the course February of 2017 as a Basic Intelligence Officer with orders to 1st Radio Battalion in Camp Pendleton. After four months of training at the battalion 1stLt Smith received orders to the Signals Intelligence Officer Course in Dam Neck, VA. In December of 2017 1stLt Smith received the Signals Intelligence/Ground Electronic Warfare Officer MOS of 0206. 1st Lt Smith received orders to the 11th MEU as the Radio Battalion Detachment OIC in August of 2018. He deployed as part of the 11th MEU’s Western Pacific 19 2 deployment from May to November of 2019 where he and his Marines provided Signals Intelligence and Electronic Warfare support to the USS BOXER Amphibious Ready Group while deployed to the Third, Fifth and Seventh Fleet AORs. First Lieutenant Smith married to Karlie Smith, of Victor, Idaho, and they have two children: Tim, 12 years old and Linus who is 12 years old.

Capt Amish Smith graduated in 1998 from Thomas Jefferson High School in Georgia. He attended Basic Training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego in August of 2004. Following graduation, he attended The School of Infantry West and graduated in December as an 0311, Infantry Rifleman. Post graduation, Private First Class Smith received orders to 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, Camp Pendleton.

Master Sergeant Molina’s personal decorations include Air Medal with 6 strike flights, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, and Humanitarian Service Medal.

In May 2017, Master Sergeant Molina received orders to Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 “Sumos” where he served as Crewmaster Instructor, Fiscal Chief and Division Chief. While at his command, Master Sergeant converted to a KC 130J Flight Engineer and participated in multiple Detachments such as Lava Viper, Balikatan, Bougainville, and Cobra Gold. In March 2020, Master Sergeant Molina received orders to the University of Idaho/Washington State University and is currently serving as the Senior Enlisted Adviser and Assistance Marine Officer Instructor.

In January 2013, Master Sergeant Molina received orders to Drill Instructor School, Class 2 13, at Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego, CA. Upon graduation, Master Sergeant Molina was assigned to 2D Battalion, Golf Company. During his time aboard the Recruit Depot Master Sergeant Molina served as Drill Instructor, Experienced Drill Instructor, Senior Drill Instructor and Chief Drill Instructor completing ten cycles. Master Sergeant Molina received numerous accolades such as Platoon High in the Company, Honor Platoon, Band of Brothers and Senior Drill Instructor of the Quarter for the Battalion for exceptional leadership voted by all company 1st Sgt’s and battalion SgtMaj. In May 2016, Master Sergeant Molina received orders to Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 352 “Raiders”, Miramar, California. While with his current command, he completed the conversion training from Crew Chief to Crewmaster and served as the command Fiscal Chief. In August 2016, Master Sergeant Molina was promoted to his current rank.

Master Sergeant Molina was born on 11 July 1984 in Los Angeles, California. He enlisted in the Marine Corps on 9 September 2002, and attended recruit training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego, CA. In January 2003, following completion of Marine Combat Training (MCT) he reported to Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola, Florida where he attended both Naval Aircrew Candidate School and Aviation Machinist’s Mate Course. In May 2003, Master Sergeant Molina was promoted to Lance Corporal and shortly after received orders to Naval Base Coronado, California for Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape training (SERE). At the completion of SERE School, Master Sergeant Molina proceeded to report to Center of Naval Aviation Technical Training (CNATT) at MCAS Cherry Point, North Carolina for additional follow on training. While attached to CNATT, Master Sergeant Molina completed both KC 130 Aircraft Mechanic O level Maintenance Course and KC 130 Flight Mechanic Ground School. Immediately after completion of both courses, Master Sergeant Molina then reported to Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Training Squadron 253 “Otis” for further Flight Mechanic training. In May 2004, upon becoming a qualified Flight Mechanic on KC 130 F/R/T models, Master Sergeant Molina then proceeded to report for KC 130J model conversion training back at CNATT, MCAS Cherry Point, North Carolina. In June 2004, after completing KC 130J Crew Chief Conversion Course, Master Sergeant Molina was then directed to report to Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 252 for further flight training. In November 2004, Master Sergeant Molina was promoted to Corporal. In January 2005, after completing conversion training, Master Sergeant Molina received orders to Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 352 “Raiders”, Miramar, California. In December 2006, Master Sergeant Molina was promoted to Sergeant. While attached to his current unit, Master Sergeant Molina helped stand up the squadron as they transitioned from KC 130 F/R models to KC 130J and deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF). After returning to Miramar, California Master Sergeant Molina continued to serve as a KC 130J Crew Chief Instructor.InMay 2009, Master Sergeant Molina received orders to Little Rock, Arkansas AFB where he assisted in standing up Detachment CNATT for all Marine KC 130 maintenance courses. In February of 2011, Master Sergeant Molina was promoted to Staff Sergeant.

Master Sergeant Sergio Molina, Assistant Marine Officer Instructor

is a lifelong resident of this area, from a generational farming family. Prior to coming to the unit. She worked at WSU for 20 years, and the Forest Service 5 years. Jennifer is married and has two sons. She joined the NROTC Staff in 2020 as the Human Resources Assistant.

Civilian Staff

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.JenniferMcDonald

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.

LT Holmes reported to the NROTC University of Idaho/Washington State University unit in February of 2019. After three years as the Aviation Officer for the unit, he earned his Master’s Degree in Exercise Physiology He is now in Bremerton, Washington carrying out his orders onboard the USS NIMITZ (CVN 68) Fair winds and following seas! Welcome Aboard!

Lieutenant Justin Holmes, Aviation Warfare Officer

Additionally, we would like to welcome aboard our incoming Aviation Officer LT Devin Calcote and all of the incoming Midshipmen for the Fall 2022 semester. You are joining the battalion at an amazing time and we are excited to see what you all bring to the table. We wish you good luck on your liberating adventures and bright futures as you are the future of the United States Navy!

Fair Winds and Following Seas

Every year, the UI/WSU NROTC Unit sends its rising senior Marine Option Midshipmen to Marine Corps Officer Candidate School (OCS) in Quantico, Virginia. OCS serves as a gatekeeper for those seeking to become Officers in the United States Marine Corps. It is designed to train, screen and evaluate those candidates physically, mentally, and morally.

Marine Officer Candidate School is truly a once in a lifetime experience. It is by no means a good time. The absolute best drill instructors in the Marine Corps are at Brown Field to forge candidates into United States Marines, and they make you earn every inch and second of that journey. I got to work with candidates from all over the country in some of the most challenging and adverse training environments in the Marine Corps. Some training evolutions I had fun with, others were a true test of grit, determination, and leadership. I learned a ton about being a Marine Officer, a leader in general, and about what truly motivates me when things are at their absolute roughest. I learned how to push further than I ever have before, to be wise under incredible duress, and to bring order amidst complete chaos. Give everything your all, do not listen to fear, be humble, learn fast, and look out for your fellow candidates, and you will be good to go. OCS is an experience I will be grateful for all my life. You will leave a stronger individual and leader, and you will know you earned the title of United States Marine. MIDN 1/C Roberts First Class Surface Cruise Over Summer 2021, I had the amazing opportunity to spend two and a half weeks aboard the USS TRIPOLI (LHA 7) for my First Class Cruise, Phase 3. Stationed out of San Diego, CA, the USS TRIPOLI is a newly commissioned ship as of 15July2020. This "mini aircraft carrier" took on around 600 MIDN for 2/C and 1/C cruises over summer while undergoing its Final Contract Trials (FCTs) and CSSQT (Combat System Ship Qualification Test) to be ready to deploy by March of next year. Just because a ship commissions, does not mean she is ready for the fleet. There are a myriad of tests to conduct on a newly commissioned ship for it to be deployed overseas. In this case, the USS TRIPOLI was getting everything fine tuned and tested to be homeported in Sasebo, Japan as part of the Amphibious Task Force out there. To provide a glimpse of the intensity of USS TRIPOLI’s role in preparing for sea duty, an understanding of its new role must be considered. Last summer is 2020, the infamous USS BONHOMME RICHARD BHR) fire inflicted a heavy loss to the U.S. Navy. Not only was this multi billion warship lost, but it left its role vacant without a replacement. As a result, the USS TRIPOLI was tasked with preparing to take the BHR's place out to sea in just one year. A newly commissioned ship usually has three years to get sea ready and qualified for deployment, but the USS TRIPOLI was only given a year. It was all hands on deck for the USS TRIPOLI this past year, not to mention Covid 19 setbacks that the ship continued to face.

15 Summer Training OCS (Officer Candidate School)

Upon arrival, crews were working long hours on top, below decks, and on the Pier while divers were performing underwater maintenance on the USS Tripoli's hull and propellers. Both the officers and enlisted were working tirelessly to accurately stock the ship, conduct repairs, run drills, test equipment, and qualify personnel and equipment. With a week aboard TRIPOLI at the Pier and 10 days (about 1 and a half weeks) spent underway, I learned so much shadowing my Division Officer ENS Anderson. As the DIVO for Damage Control under the Engineering Department of the ship, ENS Anderson had a plethora of duties and work to do living an amazingly fast paced life.

This cruise gave me a superbly detailed insight into the life of a DIVO, to prepare me for the rigors and life that I will experience post commissioning. Notably, I learned how to take the practices of being a leader and applied them in the DIVO sense how the naval officer emulates these leadership characteristics amongst the enlisted and the rest of the officers in the wardroom. I learned from numerous interactions from my DIVO and other officers during their workday and in their off time.

First Class Surface Cruise (cont.)

To detail the awesome experience that I had on my first class cruise, I got to witness all sorts of action and evolutions that most phases did not get the opportunity. Firstly, I loved how the cruise truly immersed me into the life of a DIVO officer. I felt like I was a part of the ship and would stay there (until reality hit and we had to go home). I saw amazing evolutions take place: VERTREPS, UNREPS, CCSQT (MSLX, CIWS Live fire), MV 22 landing exercises/refueling, CH 53s exercises, Sea & Anchor, F 35B flyovers for attempted landings, & Small Boat Ops. Pulling into port at the end of the underway, I got to be the rangefinder on the bow of the ship (a position usually held by a DIVO). Taking the knowledge learned in ROTC and then actually applying it on the ship was amazing and I loved the SWO community even more. When they said, “you get what you put into this training,” they were completely right. Consequently, I was 'SWOtivated' enough to put a lot of effort into this cruise and I learned an extraordinary amount. ENS Anderson said from the start, “you have the option to do all these things with me, whether you come and do them with me is 100% up to you.” I got to CONN the ship on the 02 07 watch early in the morning every other day and then back to back the last couple of days while underway. This was available to the 1/C MIDN whose DIVO was on that watch and my DIVO was on it a lot. I was immersed into how the OOD controls the navigation evolutions and gets their orders from the navigator, how the CONN and the JOOD interact, and how the CONN is the pinnacle point to giving the enlisted in the pilot house the right orders. I learned how to take the practices of being a leader and applied them in the DIVO sense how the naval officer emulates these leadership characteristics amongst the enlisted and the rest of the officers in the wardroom. Overall, the ship’s wardroom and crew were professional and were inviting. I learned an immense amount of leadership lessons as well as practical/technical shipboard knowledge. This experience really taught me to think on my feet more and to prioritize certain tasks over others when given a lot to do. The SWO social environment was interesting to see and practice sometimes felt necessary and at other times toxic. Through it all, I am excited that this experience helped prepare me to commission as an ENS next Spring and to carry these lessons learned with me into the fleet. MIDN R. Stefani Marine Month Marine Month kicked off with the formation of what would be my platoon for the next 3 weeks. I, and 30 other Sophomore and Junior Midshipman traded in our civilian attire for PT attire and camo then we got assigned our Q hut where most of our platoon would reside during training. The first couple weeks consisted of introductory military training and outdoor classes which would cover topics that ranged from suicide awareness to land navigation. Once we left Camp Talega, we spent several days rotating through different activities which consisted of a MOUT town (a staged urban town where we fought another platoon with fake rounds in our M 16s), an artillery demonstration, an M 240 live fire exercise, a combat engineer demonstration, and a flight in an Osprey. Of all the activities, my favorite was the M 240 live fire exercise, which will surely shape my preference for what job I want in the Marine Corps. MIDN Findlay

This summer I was able to attend my 2/C Surface Cruise aboard the USS MOBILE BAY (CG 53). As a guided missile destroyer, the MOBILE BAY provides defense for the Carrier Strike Group. During the second class cruise, I was able to follow around my running mate ET2 Hawk, an electronic technician’s mate who showed me the ins and outs of shipboard electronic systems including the Smith73 and navigational equipment. MOBILE BAY had two scheduled under ways during my time onboard where we got to participate in multiple events such as Flight Ops, UNREPS, Torpedo Evasion drills, and live fire drills which included the five inches, CIWIS, .50cals, and .240s. Overall, the 2/C surface cruise exists to further familiarize midshipman with the enlisted side of surface life. I am grateful for the opportunity and experience aboard Mobile Bay. Damn the Torpedoes, Full Speed Ahead.

MIDN Clavenna

First Class EOD Cruise

MIDN Friesen

All the military personnel we met were extremely excited to talk to the Midshipmen as they see us as the future of the fleet. This was motivating and we were able to learn a lot about the lives of officers and Sailors. This includes not only their day to day life, which I felt was important to find out about, but also how they got to where they are. For a lot of the people that I talked to, the journey was not easy. CORTRAMID is supposed to help you narrow down your choice of community, but I can safely say it did not do this for me. Before CORTRAMID, my mind was made up. Now, I would be ecstatic to serve in any of the three communities as they all offer their own great opportunities.

Second Class Surface Cruise

MIDN Welch

This summer I went down to San Diego for an Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) Cruise. While I was down there, I got to interact with officers and enlisted and really learned what the EOD community is like and what they did. While on this cruise I learned a lot about myself. We did a bunch of physical activities such as the human performance test, getting wet and sandy, ruck running, and a 24 hour grit test. The 24 hours grit test was by far the hardest thing I have ever done in my life so far. It is an event where you just get physical activities for 24 hours straight. I learned a lot about myself during this event. One of the most fun things I did there was being able to repel a 60ft tower and the wind tunnel. I say being down in San Diego for 19 days was the highlight of my summer.

CORTRAMID

CORTRAMID was an extremely educational and fascinating learning experience which increased my enthusiasm for joining the fleet tenfold. We were able to experience and enjoy many extraordinary opportunities such as flying in a T 34. Half of the Midshipmen were able to take a ride in a Sierra while the other half went up in an Osprey. I went up in the helicopter and it was an amazing experience. We were also able to spend 24 hours submerged in a submarine. This is where I learned the most because we were able to walk around and chat with the officers and enlisted and better understand their jobs. During surface week, my platoon got to go underway on an LCS. We did some super cool things on both the submarine and the ship that are classified. I cannot forget to touch on the liberty. I was able to explore San Diego and spend some time on the beautiful beaches on the weekends which was awesome. I enjoyed the entire experience and am extremely glad that I got the opportunity to take a glance at life in the fleet.

18 New Student Indoctrination (NSI) & New Student Orientation (NSO)

New Student Indoctrination in Great Lakes, Illinois was an amazing experience that was able to jumpstart my future career in the United States Marine Corps. Some important things I was taught at NSI were discipline, attention to detail, and the mindset it takes to be a part of the greatest military in the world. I was primarily taught discipline and attention to detail through repetition of simple tasks such as making my bed, folding my clothes, and perfecting my uniform. I was told that the skills I am learning at NSI will help me in the fleet and help make me a better Marine officer and leader to other Marines and Sailors. Every fold in my clothes would be straight and tidy, my bed will be straight and neat, and my uniform would be clean and worn to perfection. I took pride in the little and grew to understand their importance.

MIDN Salcido

MIDN Dotson

New Student Indoctrination as a Midshipman Instructor

New Student Indoctrination as a Midshipman Candidate

Several battalion members participated in New Student Indoctrination (NSI) aboard Recruit Training Command in Great Lakes, Illinois during its two iterations. The purpose of NSI is to facilitate the military indoctrination of incoming scholarship, and some college program, NROTC (Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps) Candidate Midshipman before entering the fleet. Each iteration lasted 4 weeks. Iterations were broken down into a two week Restriction of Movement (ROM) phase in accordance the Navy’s COVID 19 mitigation policy, and a training phase. Once the training phase began, Midshipman candidates received training in swimming, Fire Fighting, Small Arms handling, and drill. Upon graduation from NSI, the new MIDN 4/Cs returned home before beginning their first years of college with their home units. The UI/WSU NROTC Battalion also sent three 1/C Midshipman as Midshipman Instructors (MI’s) to both iterations. As MI’s, these MIDN were charged with mentoring and managing the Candidate Midshipmen from their arrival all the way through to graduation. MIs also received firsthand leadership mentoring from AMOI’s and Active Duty Navy Recruit Division Commanders.

My experience also pushed me physically and mentally during workouts and PT. During our morning workouts and runs I not only had to find the physical strength within myself to push through and complete every exercise, but also mentally encourage myself and understand that I can complete every workout we had. I learned and understood the concept that I can always do more and to have a “No Quit” attitude. Whenever I thought I was done and could not continue, I had to find the strength within myself to keep fighting. This also tied in with improvement in my leadership. I was encouraged to motivate all other candidates and help push them to their limits as we are only as strong as our weakest link. We are a team of Marines and Sailors and when one of us quits, it slows everyone down. So, the opportunity to lead everyone and keep morale high was a wonderful experience to learn and be a part of at NSI.

Lastly, I was also able to meet other candidates, now 4/C Midshipmen that also shared my love for the military and as well as basic core values. We were equally fired up to workout, learn about our futures in the military and share a common love for our country. Many of these candidates I still stay in touch with and check in on them constantly about their success at their respective college NROTC units. NSI was an experience that I would not easily trade away. I learned way too much and made too many lasting friends to miss it. I am the man I am today partially due to NSI, and I would encourage everyone who has the opportunity to attend NSI to do so.

There were a lot of times throughout training where we would be going through it, and we would all be exhausted and just wanting it to be over. I can speak for myself, and most of us in that situation probably could relate as well, and say that I had to remind myself as to why I was there and what this training was intended to do in order to keep chugging along. Being there with all the other Midshipman and embracing the suck really bonded us together and helped us all get through it as a team. In the end and after all of the hard work we had put in, all the time we blankly stared at the back of each other’s heads, studying our gouge books, running back and forth all the time and being herded like sheep, we then all stood together in formation and took the Oath of Midshipmen and finished training. A remarkable feat marking the first chapter of our new ways of life. MIDN Butterfield

It was a quick intermission in between NSI and NSO. I had spent a lot of time at home saying my goodbyes and spending time with my family and friends as I was preparing once again to leave for an extended period of time to face many obstacles. An example of one of these obstacles was NSO. The day had come. I remember finally finishing the cross country drive and staying up late the day I arrived and finally getting settled into my dorm. I had a sense of relief, while at the same time, a feeling of anxiety for what I had anticipated training to consist of that would commence only a few hours later. I remember when we sat in the auditorium being briefed on some information about the unit, I took a moment and scanned all the new students that were in the room. I realized at that moment that we all sacrificed our comfort to be together. To work as a team and work towards achieving the same goal. We were all there for a reason. That is something that you realize will follow you throughout your time in the unit and will eventually follow you throughout your whole career. All that daydreaming had come to a halt when Master Sergeant and some of the MECEPS came in and yelled at us to run outside. At this point this stuff had seemed like second nature. I just went through the motions that had been drilled into my head from NSI, but when outside, I had realized that I had forgotten something my camelback! “Go get it! Run! RUN!” I was told and then I thought to myself, “Wow Butterfield. You really messed THIS up. Out of all things?” This helped me realize that no matter how smart you are, experienced, or proficient you are at something, there is always some sort of situation that can really make you humble yourself and also that you can always do better. DO NOT BECOME COMPLACENT.

New Student Orientation as an Incoming Midshipman

Road Side Cleanup

The University of Idaho and Washington State University battalion volunteered to clean up litter on the side of Highway 8 towards Troy. This event is the result of maintaining the unit’s “Adopt a Highway” presence. At least 30 battalion members split up into two groups; each starting at different mile posts and working their way towards each other. This was a great way for Midshipman to earn their volunteer hours and help the community. Not only does this event build discipline by spending a weekend to pick up garbage, but it also builds comradery. Members of the battalion were able to connect in a relaxed setting and grow as a team. This tradition will continue for future semesters as it brings the battalion together and simultaneously serves the community.

On 17 SEP 2021 students and members of the United States Armed Forces Reserve Officer’s Training Corps at the University of Idaho conducted a ceremony to honor and remember the prisoners of war who have returned to us and those who are still missing in action. During this ceremony, Cadets and Midshipman from the Navy ROTC, Army ROTC, and Air Force ROTC gathered to honor the fallen and missing across all branches. The color guard that was present during the ceremony was comprised of Cadets and Midshipman of all ROTC

In the early hours of 11 November 2021, the UI/WSU NROTC Battalion planted a formation of small flags in a small section of the U.I. Admin Lawn. Later that same morning, three formations of the varies units, AFROTC, AROTC, and NROTC, came together and stood side by side whilst Unit Staff of the ROTC units and University leaders assembled to pay respects to the veterans whose footsteps we now follow after and to the valiant who lost their lives in defense of others. The NROTC Commanding Officer Captain Price Lockard delivered a short speech, honoring our Veterans and the fallen, and a wreath was presented to memorialize the sacrifices of this Nations warrior from centuries past to the present day. A crowd of onlookers had gathered for the event, and quietly looked on in solemn silence as the wreath was presented. A joint Color Guard, commanded by a MIDN and comprising representatives of all service branches presented the colors while a moment of silence was held. For the MIDN and Cadets standing in formation for the ceremony, it was a privilege to stand together to honor the memory of the veterans and fallen warriors that have gone before us and the memory of such men and women inspire and motivate us to take up the torch and strive towards living up to their storied legacy.

POW/MIA Ceremony

Afterbranches.thepresentation of the Colors and the playing of the National Anthem, a table with assorted items and symbolic significance was presented to the audience in attendance. These distinct items included a single chair, white tablecloth, a single red rose in a vase with a yellow ribbon tied around it, a small bread plate with lemon sprinkled with salt, an inverted wine glass and a lit candle. Each one of these items respectively representing frailty, purity, sacrifice, faith, determination, bitterness, grief, absence, and hope. This reminds us of those safeguarding our country and maintaining peace around the globe. Following the presentation of the table, participants stood in honor to the playing of TAPS, to recognize our comrades sacrifice for their country. This annual ceremony is held to remind us that we each can enjoy our lives because of these honorable individuals that gave the ultimate sacrifice. We will be entrusted with those same duties and responsibilities as those before us, as we each earn a commission in the United States Military.

MIDN Almanza WSU and UI Veterans Day Ceremony

MIDN Cheevers

Master Sergeant Molina Promotion

At the beginning of the semester, Sergio Molina was promoted from Gunnery Sergeant to Master Sergeant. He brought his son to this beautiful ceremony so he could walk up with him and help pin his dad with his new rank. Congratulations Master Sargent Molina!

Later in the evening, a dinner was held by the University of Idaho, inviting veterans and active duty serve members. Again, The UI/WSU NROTC Battalion took part in the ceremonies by providing a Color Guard detail, volunteers to assist in directing guests to their tables, and a Midshipman delivered the invocation for the event. Several of those involved had also taken part in the morning ceremony. Taking part in this additional event was a yet another priceless honor for these Midshipmen as they also had the opportunity to meet many active duty personal and retired servicemen. The University and ROTC units hold Veterans Day Ceremonies every year to honor those who have served our Republic in defense of the Constitution.

Semper Fi Fall FEX

Having the OCS graduate Seniors and MECEP Marines guiding classes throughout the semester as well as pointing out things to change after the evolution was completed, gave many of the MIDN valuable lessons that they will take with them into the future and even pass on to others. Semper Fi then broke into their respective fireteams and set off to their assigned SULE lanes where the fireteam leader would get the opportunity to test their tactical leadership in a simulated situation. Upper classmen get the priority for being fireteam leaders as they are going to OCS this upcoming summer. This gives the underclassmen a chance to see what a proper SULE looks like and prepares them of future FEX trainings to come. All in all, the MIDN that attended this years fall FEX walked away with valuable knowledge and the confidence to complete any follow on training that they have ahead of them.

The Fall FEX this year was a culmination of what Semper Fi had been learning and preparing for in both the classroom and physical fitness settings. They started with a rigorous 9 mile hike up to Paradise Ridge in order to get to what they call work. From here the MIDN got a chance to quickly eat something and prepare themselves for the lessons, failures, and successes to come. They would then begin with the land navigation phase of training consisting of multiple different points at various distances that needed to be found up and down Paradise ridge. Most MIDN, having little to no experience with land navigation, quickly learned how valuable and necessary it is to excel in this skill as their mission and future platoons will depend on knowing where to go and how to get there.

MIDN Ramirez

Fall Culminating Event

The purpose of the Culminating Event is to provide a rigorous training and evaluation platform to ensure unit readiness and the development of agile leaders. The event took place during the fall semester on November 5th, 2021. The Battalion was split into six teams where they competed against each other. Each team had 90 minutes to make its way to the different stations and complete various challenges. The stations involved Land Navigation, Naval Knowledge quiz, Leadership Reaction Courses, a Tactical Decision Game, a workout, and an obstacle course involving ammo cans. When the phase of stations was complete, teams returned to the Kibbe Dome for a double elimination Tug of War Tournament. Each event was scored and contributed to a point total. Score sheets cards were signed off by the Stations Leaders (MECEPS/OCs). Then the points were tallied at the end and a winner was announced. The winner team received a price from the ship store and the honor of taking a picture with the CO. This year’s winning team was Team 1 which included MIDN Stefani, Z, MIDN Findlay, MIND Blackmon, MIDN Almanza, MIDN Denning, MIDN Furrow, MIDN Kroon, MIND Mills, MIDN Wright and MIDN Allen, B. MIDN Hernandez, A.

Navy and Marine Corps Birthday Ball

On the 12th of November 2021, Sailors, Marines and Midshipmen from the University of Idaho and Washington State University gathered to celebrate the 246th Birthday of the Navy and Marine Corps. This event honors the traditions of the Naval Service and allows for battalion members to build comradery. Battalion members listened to messages from the Chief of Naval Operations and the Commandant of the Marine Corps. We This year’s guest of honor was CAPT Elaine Collins, a 1996 WSU alumna, and Commodore of Destroyer Squadron 9. The ceremony also included the presentation of the colors and traditional passing of cake from the oldest to youngest Sailors and Marines in attendance. A table paying tribute to the fallen was also presented honoring those who sacrificed so greatly for our country. For the remainder of the evening, battalion members and their guests enjoyed dancing and socializing. This was one of the first unit events of the year which gave members a chance to bond outside of regular unit activities. The evening was a great success and marked the return of the Navy Ball since the previous year’s MIDNcancellation.Hardesty

Congratulations to Midshipman Thomas Hein for earning and receiving the battalion member of the semester award. This award goes to Midshipmen that not only perform well in the unit, but go above and beyond in everything they do. MIDN Hein went above and beyond as the units S 4 (Finance Officer) and worked hard throughout the entire semester.

Battalion member of the Fall Semester

Congratulations to Midshipman Sam Hough for earning and receiving the battalion member of the semester award for the Spring Semester. This award is a very difficult award to achieve and both of the Midshipmen who received this award went above and beyond in their efforts in the battalion and participation in unit events.

Battalion member of the Spring Semester

Fi Spring FEX

Semper

This semester the bi annual field exercise, which in previous years had been shortened due to Covid 19 restrictions, took place over the course of an entire day. This extended period for training allowed us to receive valuable practice maneuvering and responding to situations while under fire, as well as navigating from one position to another through rough terrain. It provided us with an opportunity to familiarize ourselves with the conditions and criteria we will be graded on at OCS. This year, Semper Fi took advantage of every opportunity in the wake of the lifting of Covid 19 restrictions and in doing this successfully achieved our mission of training future officers of the United States Marine Corps.

MIDN Jones N.

Spring Culminating Event

During events like the stretcher and gear carry, the MIDN had to work together to move the stretcher and the gear around the track while keeping each other motivated. This was an event where each person really relied on the rest of their squad to help carry the stretcher, move at a pace acceptable for the whole group, and stay accountable and motivated. The LRCs were similar but required a different type of teamwork as the MIDN could not speak to one another outside the strategy time before the event started. The event relied on the MIDNs ability to communicate non verbally as well as deliver concise intent and instructions during the strategy portion. Not only does this event challenge the MIDN’s physically and as a team but it is a fun way to build friendly competition between squads as well as motivate each other to excel. The event that was enjoyed by most was the Tug of War competition where the squads competed against each other in a bracket to determine which squad would face the staff. After this, all of the events are scored and the winning squad is announced. The Spring 2022 culminating was a lot of fun and promoted great camaraderie for the MIDN of this unit!

MIDN Bohn

The 2022 Spring culminating event was held at different locations throughout the University of Idaho campus and was a test of the MIDNs physical endurance and teamwork. This event is held at the end of the semester to give the MIDN an opportunity to build camaraderie and as a way to overcome challenges together through problem solving and communication while competing against other squads. The events at the Spring 2022 Culminating event included a Knowledge Quiz for navy Options and a Land navigation for Marine options, a Stretcher and Gear carry, a PT station that involved flipping tires and other exercises, a Kettlebell Relay, as well as a swimming portion.

Northwest Navy

Every year a different university hosts Northwest Navy (NWN), an annual competition between universities in the Pacific Northwest. Competitors include University of Idaho/Washington State University, Oregon State University, University of Utah, and University of Washington. This competition was not able to take place in the past three years due to the COVID 19 Pandemic.

On April 8th, 2022, the UI/WSU NROTC Battalion travelled to the University of Washington campus in Seattle to compete in the 62nd Northwest Navy. The day of the competition, the four universities competed in events that challenged them physically and mentally. These events include Physical Readiness Test (PRT), Physical Fitness Test (PFT), Basketball, Spike ball, Soccer, Ammo Can Relay, Tug of War, Academics, Ultimate Frisbee, Volleyball, Endurance Course, Color Guard and Drill. To cap off the Northwest Navy Competition, the drill teams competed in a Close Order Drill Competition. Drill team members competed with decommissioned M16 drill rifles; performing commands on a given drill card. The drill team had weekly practices in the early mornings, the late evenings to work with their team to develop their skills necessary to succeed in the competition.

Northwest Navy has taught the Battalion members many important skills and lessons. Midshipmen, MECEPs, OCs were able to meet new people, work as a team, and come together to build esprit de corps. Congratulations and good job to all the Midshipmen, MECEPs, and OCs that dedicated their time and hard work into competing and making the Northwest Navy Competition possible. After the long year of dedication and hard work, the University of Idaho/Washington State University earned 2nd place out of all the four universities. Although, the Battalion did not place first, the Battalion Midshipmen had an enjoyable and memorable experiences while built camaraderie.

MIDN Plernchaiyaphum

The volleyball team had a standout performance at Northwest Navy, going undefeated and dominating by large margins throughout the day. They placed first, the result of a combined effort from every member of the team.

32 PRT Team Practicing bright and early every morning, the PRT team for Northwest Navy woke up with the motivation to master every aspect of the PRT. For Northwest Navy, the best average out of the four required team members wins the event. This means that each member strives to get max out on the PRT. To get an outstanding high (max) in a traditional PRT (Physical Readiness Test), the three males on our team (MIDN Stefani R, MIDN Nathaniel Cheevers, and MIDN Thomas Hein) must run an 8:15 1.5 mile run, have a 3:24 minute max time for planks, and do 92 pushups in two minutes. MIDN Rodzinka, our female option for the team, had to run a 9:29 1.5 mile run, plank for 3:14 minutes, and do 51 pushups in two minutes. Knowing the rigorous standards to achieve the maximum scores, MIDN Stefani R., the PRT team captain, knew that the team had to train hard every day. At 0500 in the morning, when it was still freezing and dark out, the team met outside the Student Rec Center at the University of Idaho to commence their workouts. From intense ab workouts and long runs to painstaking leg workouts and exhausting pullups and pushup sets, the PRT team gave it all in their practices which paid off overall. Some of the challenges the team overcame was working through injuries halfway through the semester and facing burnout. With all of us working out for five days straight during the week, it became challenging to keep up the fast pace we were going at. But the team captain’s morale helped motivate the team to push through the uncomfortable and heal from injuries in order to perform our best on game day. When the team arrived at the University of Washington for the event on Saturday morning at 0530, warmups began, and game day was on. Planking for the second longest time, MIDN Cheevers helped the team finish strong with the plank section of the PRT. With pushups, MIDN Hein, MIDN Cheevers, MIDN Rodzinka, and MIDN Stefani maxed out their pushups all getting extra points for every pushup we went over the traditional PRT maximum. Lastly, the 1.5 mile run saw some of the fastest racers in the NROTC units across the Pacific Northwest with some insanely fast times. Overall, all of the team’s training paid off as the PRT team scored first place at Northwest Navy.

Go UI/WSU NROTC, Go Navy!

MIDN Stefani Volleyball Team

MIDN Jones, L.

MIDN Ellis PFT Team

33 Soccer Team

Coming out of the COVID 19 Pandemic, we were all excited for the battalion's first Northwest Navy competition. One team with a large amount of passion and camaraderie was Color Guard. The team was primarily composed of first year students with previous experience and aided in developing underclassman leadership. Every practice began with lighthearted conversation before getting to business and almost always ended in Midshipman engaging in more lighthearted banter. Over the spring semester, the team built a strong bond and developed professional relations among several different classes. When the day of Northwest Navy arrived, the team remained eager and excited to compete and practiced until right before the performance. In the end, Color Guard placed second. MIDN Kroon, MIDN Farnworth, MIDN Cheevers, MIDN Plernchaiyaphum, and I were extremely honored to represent our unit with the help of MIDN Hein and MIDN Tomczyk.

SSgt Jensen

The PFT was conducted in an Iron Man fashion whereby the max number of points awarded for each event was limited to an individual’s maximum effort. Our training included medium distance runs concluding with pull up pyramids, the MURPH challenge, and training on your own outside our normally scheduled times when time conflicts would arise. Despite several obstacles leading up to the event, the team showed up confident and ready to compete. Pull ups was our first event where we met every expectation and had placed ourselves in good standing against the other universities. The next event was planks where everyone held up their end of the deal which was not dropping until you cannot physically hold yourself up any longer. The last event was the run where some of the team members set a personal best time, one of them by two minutes. Although first place was not awarded to us, each member of the team battled to be the best. Our performance throughout the overall event was outstanding to say the least.

Our NWN Soccer team performed well this spring at UW. The team was excited to get after it every week, always enthusiastic about practice, and brought the energy day in and day out. Everyone contributed greatly to the team’s performance, but here are some notable individual highlights: MIDN Palid was our lockdown goalkeeper, performing above and beyond while keeping the ball out of the net. OC Woody played with the most heart and dedication I’ve ever seen, consistently challenging others abilities and defining his own. MIDN Denning was the best co coach I could’ve asked for, and his skills on the field are impeccable. The entire team played their hearts out, taking third place. Next year the team looks forward to crushing it and going for gold!

MIDN Clavenna Color Guard

MIDN Findlay Basketball Team

I had a lot of fun as the captain for the Basketball team at Northwest Navy this year. I got to watch the progress and talent level of the players grow in the months leading up to the competition. Seeing how dedicated everyone was to improve themselves, play their hardest and help the team win was very inspiring for me. I personally, really enjoy basketball, so it was a good time for me to be able to share that past time with friends and peers. We would practice sometimes twice a week, but most players would practice outside of those close to every other day. We had a very well rounded team and we all played as hard as we could. Even though we came in 2nd place, I couldn’t be any prouder of the players and how hard they all worked.

Next year they will get the gold!

Frisbee practice was never ideal, with temperatures and winds typically in the teens, the team showed up to Seattle with less than ideal preparation. Nonetheless, the team fought through the lack of practices and played well at the University of Washington. In the first half of our first match, we were losing one to four against U Dub. With our backs against the wall, the team regrouped and fought back to win eight to four. Following this comeback, we were able to coast to take first place winning the next two matches while outscoring our opponents 32 7.

Ammo Can Relay

MIDN Baker

This semester, I was in charge of the ammo can relay team, which consisted of a total of four quarter mile sprints with a 30 pound ammo can between 4 battalion members. The frozen conditions of late winter made it hard to practice on the track which was consistently covered with snow. Once the track became available, myself, MIDN Stefani Z, MIDN Stefani R, and SSgt. Jensen practiced short and long distance relays with the ammo cans. Everyone on the team put out, but unfortunately, other teams at Northwest Navy were more prepared, and our team came in fourth place. We’ll avenge ourselves next year!!!

MIDN Smith Ultimate Frisbee

Summer Whites Inspection

In preparation for the spring awards ceremony, the unit conducted a summer whites inspection to ensure that all of the battalion member’s uniforms were perfect and worn correctly. The inspection was conducted by the Platoon Commanders and Platoon Sergeants. All three platoons were well groomed and professional and displayed great bearing and tact.

Senior Mess Night is a formal dinner held in the Dining In tradition with soon to be commissioned Seniors and Unit Staff before graduation. This year, we were privileged to be joined by VADM (ret) William Bowes, a 1963 alum from the University of Idaho and our NROTC Unit, who shared his leadership experiences with us at dinner as our Guest of Honor.

Senior Mess Night

Spring Awards Ceremony

This Spring, several Midshipmen were awarded scholarships in recognition of their efforts in the battalion. Many other awards were also given to outstanding members of the battalion who have gone above and beyond this last year. Thank you for your commitment and continued participation in the battalion and thank you to the 1962 University of Idaho NROTC alumni for joining us and passing on their wisdom to the next generations of officers in the Naval Service!

Congratulations to our four seniors that graduated in the fall. 2nd Lt Allen, 2nd Lt Roberts, Ensign Gluth and Ensign Raffaele all became officers in the US Navy or Marine Corps during this commissioning ceremony. Fair winds and following seas to our newly commissioned officers!

Fall Commissioning

Spring Commissioning

Some of our seniors graduated in the spring instead of the fall. Congratulations to 2nd Lt Sayre, 2nd Lt Dzuris, Ensign Kroon, Ensign Salcido, Ensign Smith, Ensign Welch, and Ensign Stefani who became officers in the US Navy or Marine Corps during this ceremony. Fair winds and following seas to our newly commissioned officers!

Bachelor of Science in History from the University of Idaho. His first assignment is The Basic School in Quantico Virginia. Second Lieutenant Daniel Roberts from Washington State University. His first assignment is Introductory Flight Screening followed by Aviation Pre flight Indoctrination in Pensacola, Florida.

Bachelor of Science in Criminology and Justice Studies from the University of Idaho. His first assignment is Introductory Flight Screening followed by Aviation Pre flight Indoctrination in Pensacola, Florida.

Newly Commissioned Officers

Ensign Aidan Raffaele

University of Idaho/Washington State University

Newly Commissioned Officers - Spring 2022

University of Idaho/Washington State University

Second Lieutenant Samuel Dzuris Second Lieutenant Andrew Sayer

Bachelor of Science in Sociology with an emphasis in Criminology from the University of Idaho. His first assignment is The Basic School in Quantico Virginia. Bachelor of Science in Medical Sciences from the University of Idaho. His first assignment is The Basic School in Quantico Virginia. Bachelor of Science in Political Science from the University of Idaho. His first assignment will be onboard the USS Lake Erie CG 70 homeported in San Diego, California.

Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from the University of Idaho. His first assignment will be onboard the USS Barry DDG 52 homeported in Yokosuka, Japan.

Ensign Jacob Smith Ensign Daniel Welch

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Idaho. His first assignment is Introductory Flight Screening followed by Aviation Pre flight Indoctrination in Pensacola, Florida.

Bachelor of Science in History from the University of Idaho. His first assignment will be onboard the USS RAFAEL PERALTA DDG 115 homeported in Yokosuka, Japan. Ensign Richard Stefani Ensign Ryan Kroon Ensign Chris Salcido

University of Idaho/Washington State University

Newly Commissioned Officers

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Washington State University. His first assignment is Introductory Flight Screening followed by Aviation Pre flight Indoctrination in Pensacola, Florida.

43 Battalion Members Officer Candidates and Navy Option Midshipmen MIDN Almanza MIDN Baker MIDN Bonds MIDN ClavennaMIDN Butterfield MIDN Fancher MIDN Friesen MIDN Furrow MIDN HeinMIDN Garcia Hernandez,MIDN A MIDN Hough MIDN Jones, CMIDN Jacobo DelgadoMIDNPita MIDN Denning MIDN Durfee MIDN FarnworthMIDN Ellis Hernandez,MIDN E

44 MIDN Mills MIDN Moore PlernchaiyaphumMIDNMIDN Palid OC Castro MIDN Rodzinka MIDN Tomczyk OC Cumming OC Woody

45 MECEPs and Marine Option Midshipmen MIDN RamirezMIDN Kasma MIDN Stefani, Z MIDN HatchMIDN Hardesty MIDN Findlay MIDN Jones, L MIDN Dotson MIDN CheeversMIDN BohnMIDN Blackmon MIDN Cmelo MIDN FigueredoJun MIDN Jones, N GySgt Auger MIDNJoshuaFigueredo

SSgt Jensen SSgt Moss SSgt Rose SSgt Tompkins

Forhttps://forms.office.com/r/13B3nyWR4tmoreinformationpleasecontactSSgt

On the 3rd, at 1530, WSU has offered a hospitality tent on Rogers Field situated next to Martin Stadium for your convenience. The hospitality package includes an open bar and a buffet in a centralized location for a quick transition to the Football game that begins at 1830. The package is $85 per person.

On September 2 3rd of 2022, current and former battalion members will have the opportunity to come together and celebrate 77 years of professionalism. We hope that you will join us and that you take advantage of this opportunity to reunite with former comrades and meet those who are following in your footsteps. The Unit plans to host a golf outing and banquet on Friday. On Saturday tailgating and attending the UI / WSU football game.

Starting on 2nd of September, an 18 hole Golf Tournament will kick off the celebration. The Golf Tournament will take place at the University of Idaho Golf course. At 0930 a golf tournament brief for all participants will commence. The tournament itself will begin at 1000 and conclude at 1500. Individuals who wish to participate are welcome to request groups with friends and family. The Golf Course has a bar and food available for individuals who wish to attend but would rather not participate.

The evening of the 2nd will include a banquet celebration at the Pittman International Ballroom on the University of Idaho campus. The dress code for this event will be business attire or service dress blue equivalent for active duty. The venue will include a bar, music, and menu catered by Idaho Eats. Cocktail hour begins at 1600 and the light ceremony will begin at 1700. The event will conclude at 2200.

The last anniversary event the Unit hosted was in 2015, for the 70th anniversary of the Unit. It was an enjoyable time, and it included many recounting of memories from the UI/WSU NROTC. The students learned much from the alumni, and we are looking forward to hearing more sea stories and learning more life lessons. Below is the point of contact information for questions regarding the event, and the official registration portal for those interested in the celebration:

Logan Tompkins by email or phone: (605) 431 Wetomp9953@vandals.uidaho.edu7998hopeyoucanmakeit!

77th Anniversary Save the Date

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.

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.

Larry and Lisette Baxter/Kay Kimura ROTC Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to an outstanding member of the battalion at the University of Idaho. Larry and Lisette (Baril) met in Salt Lake City in the mid seventies where Larry was working at a commercial bank and flying helicopters with the Utah Army National Guard and Lisette was attending nursing school at Westminster College. Larry entered the U of I Class of 1966. As a member of the College of Letter and Sciences he majored in Political Science. At the time of his entry to the University ROTC was a required program and he chose to remain in the program for the full four years and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Regular Army upon graduation in June, 1966. During the summers of Larry's U of years, he worked for the U.S. Forest Service at the Warren District of the Payette National Forest.

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.

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 Navy Marine Corps Birthday Ball, Commissioning Ceremonies, New Student Orientation, and other student led Roderickevents.

About the Funds

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.

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.

Diana Wilhite Scholarship: This scholarship is given to a member of the Battalion at the University of Idaho who achieved a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.5 on a scale of 4.0. The awardee is selected on criteria, including but not limited to diversity, financial need, and involvement and/or leadership in the Navy ROTC program as well as in other community activities.

Lawrence H. Baxter Forestry Scholarship: This scholarship is given to a member of the Battalion at the University of Idaho who is majoring in forestry and selected by the College of Natural Resources Scholarship TheCommittee.Claudand

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.

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

University of Idaho

About the Funds

USS IDAHO Commissioning Note

Construction of the reactor compartment commenced in the Fall of 2019. Laydown of the hull compartments commenced August 2021 with a traditional ceremony where the Ship Sponsor’s initials are welded into a keel plate. The Sponsor is Theresa Stackley, wife of Sean Stackley Former Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Research, Development and Acquisition. Commissioning activities are planned for future dates. The ceremonial events and associated activities will be held in Groton, CT.

CAPT US Navy richard.colburn@gmail.com(retired)

Want to participate as a member of the USS IDAHO Commissioning Foundation? Send me an email richard.colburn@ussidahocommittee.org

SSN 799 is the fifth Navy ship to be named after the Great State of Idaho. Those preceding her include the Steam Sloop (1866 1873), Battleship BB24 (1908 1914), Motor Boat SP545 (1917 1918) and Battleship BB45 (1919 1946).

The USS IDAHO SSN 799 Commissioning Foundation commenced a media kickoff with the website Home | USS Idaho Commissioning Committee (ussidahocommittee.org) in full operation and the Foundation’s newsletter is available via the website and emailed periodically. I would like to highlight that, University of Idaho music Professor Dan Bukvich wrote a new march dedicated to the USS IDAHO SSN 799 which may also be viewed on our website. The Foundation’s responsibilities will include public relations and community outreach across the state; coordination of Ship’s Crew and Ship’s Sponsor visits to the state; planning, preparation and execution of ceremonial events and activities to be held in Groton , CT and fundraising to support all associated activities and to provide for gifts to the ship and its crew.

We can make things happen where ever you Richardare.

Boise, Idaho On August 22, 2015 Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus hosted a ship naming ceremony to announce that SSN 799, a Virginia class attack submarine, would bear the name USS IDAHO. The submarine is named in recognition of all military service veterans from the state and in honor of the history that Idaho has had with the U. S. Navy.

Colburn, Chairman, USS IDAHO Commissioning Foundation

Navy ROTC Mainstay 2021-2022

Articles inside

About the Funds

Donations

USS IDAHO Commissioning

University of Idaho/Washington State University Newly Commissioned Officers

Spring Commissioning

Fall Commissioning

Senior Mess Night

Spring Awards Ceremony

Summer Whites Inspection

Spring Culminating Event

Northwest Navy

Semper Fi Spring FEX

Battalion member of the Spring Semester

Battalion member of the Fall Semester

Road Side Cleanup

Fall Culminating Event

Semper Fi Fall FEX

Navy and Marine Corps Birthday Ball

New Student Indoctrination (NSI) & New Student Orientation (NSO

Master Sargent Molina Promotion

Marine Month

Spring Battalion Commanding Officer’s Call

Commander Anthony Rabaiotti, Executive Officer

Civilian Staff

Lieutenant Thomas Ernst, Surface Warfare Officer

Captain Amish Smith, Marine Officer Instructor

Fall Battalion Commanding Officer’s Call

Master Sergeant Sergio Molina, Assistant Marine Officer Instructor

Lieutenant Donald Olsen, Nuclear Propulsion Officer