Summer 2010.pmd - Marine Military Academy Blog

MMA Leader
Current information for our Special Friends. Dedicated to our Cadets--Leaders of tomorrow.
The MARINE MILITARY ACADEMY develops disciplined, morally strong,
college-ready young men who are prepared for responsible leadership.
CELEBRATING 45 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE
16 Pages
Vol. 24, No. 1
Summer 2010
Discovering The Height Of Self Worth
D-C
G Company, Platoon 01
“P
Brian Nsubuga - The Woodlands, Texas
ALPHA Company, Platoon 501
“The most difficult event I
overcame at MMA Camp
was my fear of heights...the
Rappel Tower cured me of
that fear! I also learned to
push myself, try everything.
I found out I enjoy boxing
and paintball. I wish there
could have been more P.T.
The more sweat the better I
am ‘to go’. I really liked
the people and some of the
Mexican dishes...but the meals with hamburgers
and fries were always the best meals and days!”
TODAY I WILL OVERCOME MY FEAR OF HEIGHTS!
It’s my company’s day to rappel off the tower on MMA’s ‘Back 40’ - we’re first up at
0900 following our hike. I didn’t sleep well last night...even tried counting sheep but
every time I drifted off those blasted fluffy white sheep crept into my mind, edging me
closer and closer to the edge of a rooftop that appeared as tall as a New York City
skyscraper! I usually put away a heaping mound of scrambled eggs every breakfast
(Mess 1), but today that mound just reminds me of the height of that tower I’ll be
tackling today. Mess chatter is all about today’s challenge, and I am relieved to hear
others say they’ve never been higher than the top of the rope in Gym class back home.
Continued on Page 2
Our hike brings us up on the loose dirt
road on MMA’s ‘Back 40’ at about 0855.
Our red-shirted and equally red-faced
Cadet Instructor (C.I.) bellers out, “Five
minutes for filling camel packs, rest and
head calls. Move it, NOW!” The C.I.’s
are pretty cool. I mean, they have their
job to do and they’re always under the
eye of the DI and ADI...if they mess up
they’re spared no slack. But, all of us
campers know they’ve all been through
what we’re going through, so I listen to
everything they tell us...if my C.I. says
we have five minutes to get ourselves
together, he’s already looking at the
second hands on his watch as I race to
make a head call! Good, I’m first in line.
What a relief...there’s plenty of time for
a couple of minutes of good old H20 and
contemplation.
The green-shirted Tower instructors, the
old guys, are readying the Tower checking ropes; sorting out safety
harnesses, helmets and such. Five minutes
speed by, and our Drill Instructor groups
us up just outside the Tower’s chain link
fence. He introduces Major Harold
Compton, USMC (Ret), who goes
through what we’ve all come to call ‘the
skinny’... that’s Marine Corps talk for
‘information you really need to know’. I
try to pay full attention as Major Compton
cinches up his most adamant volunteer my roommate Austin - as an example.
Austin is grinning ear-to-ear, and I know
he is loving not only being the center of
everyone’s attention, but he’s also
pumped and determined to rappel as many
times as he can in our allotted two hours.
Me...I just hope I can get down the rope
once without becoming a human flapjack.
Major Compton scans our group as he
announces, “Okay, do what I’ve told you
and you’ll be 100% successful. Cinch up
just like I just showed you, then fall in.”
Austin has already gathered an extra
helmet, harness and all the getup. He races
over to me, slams the yellow helmet on
to my head and says to get my gear on
Provided and distributed by:
2
NOW...all the while tugging my shirt sleeve, steering me
towards the Rappel Tower stair entrance. I think Austin
must sense my hesitancy, and there’s no way I want
Austin to outdo me. I’ll never hear the end of it.
We’re first in line - thanks to Austin - and my D.I. thumps
the top of my helmet, then tugs on my safety gear. “You
ready to ace this?” he says to me with a grin. “I AM!”
exclaims Austin...he’s such a show-off, but I’m glad...
at least the attention is off of me. “Then get on up those
stairs, men, show the rest of us what you’re made of!”
I follow Austin’s lead into the Tower. There’s more
helmets and safety gear on the cool concrete floor.
Obviously, the Rappel Tower is a busy place and gets a
whole lot of use. As we start up the first of four flights
of stairs I try to keep concentrating on Austin’s yellow
shirt back. At the first bend we’re greeted by another
red-shirted C.I. who smacks us both on top of our
helmets with a, “Do this!” Rats, that threw my gaze out
over the railing, and I can’t help but notice the tops of
waiting campers’ helmets becoming smaller...my knees
are shaking a bit and I appreciate the coolness of the iron
railing as I grip it, catapulting my way upward. Austin is
already on deck atop the Tower as I round the last bend.
He’s strapped in, connected to Major Compton’s harness
with a bright blue steel caribiner. Major tells Austin to
grip the rope with his grey-gloved right hand and put
that hand to the small of his back, then lean way, way
back. As Austin complies, he instinctively grips the rope
in front of him with his left hand. Major tightens the
slack and tells Austin to let go with his left hand, “I’ve
got you. You’re connected to me and your right hand is
your brake. You and only YOU control how fast you go
down. Let go with your left hand, and put that hand on
top your helmet...NOW!”
Austin complies and gets this great big confident grin on
his face as Major gives the rope a couple of demonstrative
tugs. Major assures Austin, “Okay, you’re ready to rock.
Look down at the C.I. below and yell ‘Camper Austin on
rappel.” Austin hollers down to the expectant C.I., and
the C.I. returns volley, “C.I. Swanson on belay!” Major
moves aside as Austin maneuvers in to rappel position,
facing Major with his feet spread wide on the launching
pad, heels hanging over the edge. Oh, I wish that cold
tingle would quit racing up and down my spine and my
stomach...I’m sure everyone can hear the churning and
growling! “Lock your knees, and when you’re ready, take
one step down.” Austin grins at me and tosses over one
last taunt, “I better see YOU at the bottom!” He takes a
first step down, then another and another until Major
yells, “BRAKE, put on your brake!” Austin is halfway
there, and I can’t believe what the Major tells him to do
next. “Good brake! Now, with your left hand wave at the
Camera Lady and say, ‘Hi, Mom and Dad!’” I can
scarcely believe my eyes...Austin does exactly that, then
confidently continues downward until his feet hit the
ground. The C.I. bumps gloves with him, then tells him
to walk backwards, letting the rope out. Austin, the show
boat, does three jumping jacks then yells at the top of his
lungs, “OOH RAH!” which is echoed by the nine
campers behind me on the Tower, Major, my D.I. and
C.I.’s, and probably Aunty Em over in the next county.
Major Compton reaches for my rope, snaps on the
connective carabiner, grins at me, smacks me on the
shoulder and commands, “Step on up, son, you’re next!”
GUILLERMO ABOUMRAD - Mexico
ALPHA Company, Platoon 601
“The most
difficult challenge? The
Obstacle
Course by a
long shot! I
liked all of
the outdoor
activities
since I
already love being
outdoors. I learned a lot about the
power of values and especially
leadership...oh,
and
self
discipline. The chow was good. My
favorite meal was definitely the
spaghetti and the pizza...all very
delicious!”
Alpha Company
JACKSON STUMB - Huntsville, AL
ALPHA Company, Platoon501
“I did so much
at
Summer
Camp from 6
a.m. in the
MORNING
until 9 p.m. at
NIGHT that I
can truthfully
tell you what I
liked best about
this camp was
GOING TO BED! I learned so much
about self discipline and learned even
more to appreciate my bed and my
home life. The hardest thing I
accomplished, besides self discipline,
was the Combat Fitness Course. You
could have served burgers every meal!”
FRANCISCO CIANZIO - Puerto Rico
ALPHA Company, Platoon 501
“I really liked
the Obstacle
Course. It was
challenging
and fun. Once
you got it, you
got to do it as
many times as
you wanted. At
first I accomplished nothing but later I
got everything right by practicing and
trying as hard as I could. I learned
teamwork; helping each other you can
accomplish every challenge! I really
loved this Camp - I learned to know a
lot about myself...I matured. I also
learned a great deal about self discipline and showing respect for others.”
Dear Academy Friend,
The summer edition of the Leader is one of my favorites - full of examples of what the four short weeks of MMA Summer and ESL Camp
can mean to impressionable 12 to 17 year-old adolescents. Year after
year, this firmly-structured, yet understanding environment provides a
valuable platform for the young men, primarily 12 to 17 years of age,
whose families are fortunate to afford these young men the opportunity,
and also a handful who attend through the kind generosity of friends of
the Academy ... friends who realize the importance of instilling in our
future leaders self confidence and discipline, leadership and team
building skills. In today’s fast-paced world where many adolescents
prefer to take shortcuts and offer less than their personal best effort, the
Marine Military Academy continues to challenge each camper to strive
for excellence and his highest potential...in athletics/physical
activities, moral and other personal endeavors. An envelope has been provided should you choose to
financially support bringing the MMA Camp opportunity to another young boy who, without your
assistance, will not be able to attend next year’s Camp. Be sure to annotate “MMA Summer Camp 2011”
on your check.
Semper Fidelis,
Bob Grider
Lieutenant Colonel, USMC (Ret)
Director, MMA Institutional Development
SUMMER & ESL CAMPS: REGISTRATION DAY!
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Marine Military Academy (MMA) Summer and
ESL campers, parents, families and friends arrived
on Saturday, July 3rd to begin the ‘official’
Registration process. Campers toting bulging gym
bags and back packs made their way through
stations - Admissions, Medical, Business Office,
and ultimately Military departments. Once
introduced to their Drill Instructor (DI), campers
bade farewell to family and said hello to Cadet
Instructors (CI’s) who guided them to what every
camper eagerly anticipates – Mr. Handy’s Barber
Shop and the fashionable “buzz” style. Ears still
ringing from the clippers, campers are measured
and outfitted with camp gear stowed in mesh bags
which they sling over their shoulders until reaching
their barracks. Parents, family and friends visit with
MMA staff, touring campus while straining for a
glimpse of their camper in full camp action!
Summer Camper Nathaniel Bowman says “see you in four
weeks” to his grandmother.
DEVON CABLE - Portland, TX
ALPHA Company, Platoon 601
“I conquered
my fear of
heights! That
was absolutely
the toughest
challenge I
have faced. I
e n j o y e d
rappelling,
doing the zip
line and the
Obstacle
Course...they rocked. At MMA
Summer Camp I learned the power
of banding together as a team. We
all were people who arrived here
barely knowing each other at first
to being ‘brothers’’.I was amazed!
The chow was okay...my favorite
had to be the burgers and fries...I
can taste ‘em still today!”
So, what will these campers be up to for the next four weeks? All campers, regardless of whether they are
‘Summer’ or ‘ESL’, will undertake challenges full of EXTREME EXCITEMENT - the name of the game at
Marine Military Academy’s Summer Camp. Each camp participant will AUSTIN WILSON - Springfield, MA
soon discover it’s not how many hours you put in each day, but what you put
ALPHA Company, Platoon 601
“Paintball was
into each hour. Campers join others from all over the globe, experiencing
the greatest! I
team sports Marine Corps-style, learning how to build interpersonal
loved the feeling of winning!
relationships based on mutual respect and trust, and discovering how
The most diffiimportant these relationships are. They’ll participate every day in new
cult was doing
the Combat
activities designed to turn ordinary summers into extraordinary adventures
F i t n e s s
they’ll most likely remember the rest of their lives!
Test....but
I
“Just take a
little off the
sides, okay?”
made
it
through!
I
learned about
the value of teamwork and that bringing a group of people together can
help the team get through problems in
many situations. The chow was
great...it’s like eating at a giant buffet!
My favorite meal was the
cheeseburgers and fries - very tasty!”
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BEFORE DAWN’S EARLY LIGHT:
WHAT DO YOU PUT IN THE FIRST HOUR OF YOUR DAY?
Before most of us indulge in that first sweet cup of java, over 360 campers take to the paved ‘courtyard’ out
in front of their barracks...and make no mistake...this is PT with GUSTO!
CLAY PICKLER - Grapevine, TX
DELTA Company, Platoon 101
“The hardest
event for me was
probably climbing up and
jumping off the
Power Pole. Before that I had a
strong fear of
heights even
though I kept it
hid. I finished
1:54 in the Combat Fitness Test, and did I ever push
myself hard! I’ve learned I CAN do
more, push myself further than I ever
thought possible. I enjoyed the disciplined aspect - it made me feel right at
home. PT was hard but well worth it in
the end. I liked the Courses, League
Play, and Mess best!”
Delta Company
“Up” means both hands up and feet out, in unison, and “Down” means get those arms flapping and your
feet smacked together. Campers not so rhythmically-inclined are provided 1-on-1extra-special instruction!
Ahhhhhh...a brisk mile jog to round out a perfect start to the day. Yet another glorious, sunshine-filled
Marine Military Academy Summer Camp day is straight ahead!
PIERCE MARTINEZ - Newport, NC
DELTA Company, Platoon 201
“I really enjoyed
boxing, lifting
weights
and
paintball. The
chow was good.
My
favorite?
Ribs
with
mashed potatoes
and
mixed
veggies. The hardest thing I did
was not falling out during the last run during
morning PT. I learned to push myself further
than I ever thought possible, and I also
learned about the brotherhood I established
with my company. I had a good summer!”
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RUSSELL WILSON - Savannah, GA
DELTA Company, Platoon 101
“Doing the
‘Rappelling
Spiderman’
off the Tower
was the greatest! The most
difficult thing
I
accomplished was
all the PT and
conquering
the Obstacle
Course. But, both of those activities
helped me push myself and in the
end I gained confidence in what I
can do. I learned first to believe in
myself, you have to say to yourself
‘YOU CAN DO IT!’ Also, life isn’t
easy-work hard, have discipline!”
SAM SETTLE - Arlington, TX
DELTA Company, Platoon 201
“I’ve got to say
getting up every
morning very
early for PT was
pretty much the
hardest thing I
accomplished,
along
with
learning to try
my best all the
time regardless
of how I felt. I
did learn a lot
about discipline
and that I can go a lot further by pushing myself...I did much better than I
originally thought I would. I enjoyed
doing all the courses: Obstacle, Leadership, Ropes and Confidence. The food
was good. I liked all the meals but my
favorite would have to be the
enchiladas!”
Give me more “O” !
THE CLIMB TO THE TOP CONTINUES...
One of this year’s summer campers favorite events is the
Obstacle Course, and – believe it or not – climbing the
ropes all the way to the very top ‘tops’ the list! As these
campers clutch, grasp and pull their way to the rope’s most
northern point, they give the cold steel a hearty smack and
shout out, “Camper’s last name, Camper’s company” with
all their might. The rest of the company breaks out in a
hearty round of “OOH RAH’s”. However, the climb is the
icing on the cake for those taking on the Obstacle Course.
First, there’s a plethora of other challenges aboard this
Course:
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DIEGO CASANOVA - Mexico
DELTA Company, Platoon 201
“I pushed
myself the most
on the Combat
Fitness Test and
Iron Man
event. I’m
proud of my
performance
on both events.
Here I’ve
pushed myself
like I never
though I could, and it felt really, really
good! I’ve learned that good effort
brings good rewards. My favorite
events were Rockclimbing, rappelling,
drill(!!!), Mud Course, King’s gym
activities, movies, and the free time at
the barracks talking and laughing!”
DEAONTRAE SAMPSON - Marksville, LA
DELTA Company, Platoon 101
“When I first
came to camp,
I couldn’t do any
of the obstacles
on the Courses,
but I learned to
push myself and
that it’s ‘mind
over matter’.
The Courses became my favorite events! The
most difficult thing I overcame was to
accept people of different cultures and
to feel comfortable socializing with
those who are totally different than me.
I learned to face problems and to work
as a TEAM, and to focus, not give up
and how to change my life.”
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There’s No Circuit Breakers Here !
THE CLIMB TO THE TOP CONTINUES...
There’s absolutely no doubt about it...the ‘livewire’ indomitable spirit fusing this year’s campers together
is alive and thriving! Campers of all shapes, sizes and backgrounds encourage one another to expend their
all on MMA Back 40’s Circuit Course...audibly, thumbs-up and congratulatory pats-on-the back!
There is absolutely nothing that’s
easy about this challenge. Groans,
grunts, deep inhales and exhales
and exclamations of victory are
audible from campers as they make
their way through each labeled
section – Flutter Kicks, Pullups,
Incline Situps, Military Press,
Pushups, Leg Lifts, Bends and
Thrusts, Crunches, Back
Extensions, Dips – every 30
seconds announced abruptly by
MMA’s Commandant SgtMaj
Kinsley, along with his shrilling
whistle aboard his perch on the
high platform. What’s the grand
prize for completion of all events?
A brisk run around the track, then
Round 2 on the Circuit Course, of
course! The Mess Hall’s Chef
Carlos better stack on a few
hundred more burgers on the
lunch line today ‘cause these
young men could each eat their
“way clear through a McDonald’s
burger truck” as an extremely
hungry camper noted as the
tropical sun centered on the bright
blue sky above...high Noon and
it’s off to 2nd Mess for everyone!
TIM LYZNICK - Los Angeles, CA
ECHO Company, Platoon 801
“The toughest thing
I accomplished
here at Summer
Camp was Combat
F
i
r
e
Maneuver...wow,
that was really hard!
The Rappelling
Tower made up for
the hard stuff,
though. I could
have done that a lot
more! I learned I better always listen, follow directions and NEVER
GIVE UP! I’m going to use that advice a
lot because I’m coming back for the school
year. My favorite meal was mac-n-cheese,
hamburgers, fries, and don’t forget the apple
pie!”
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ANTONIO COX - Kingwood, TX
ECHO Company, Platoon 701
“I learned all
about discipline, self discipline, having
respect for myself and for others, and most of
all to be fearless! The hardest event I did
was the Combat
Fitness
Test
which took me 2 minutes, 40
seconds...but I finished! I really liked
doing the PT and the cheeseburgers were
excellent! I can’t wait until the school
year begins because I am coming back
to MMA for school!””
Echo Company
TYLER WEAST - Ellenboro, NC
ECHO Company, Platoon 801
“The Mud and all
the Courses were
the best, and I
have only one
word for the chow:
AWESOME! Especially
the
burritos, burgers
and fries! The
hardest thing for
me to accomplish
was not talking
back and to push myself to do more. I
got the job done, though, and through
it all I gained self confidence and discipline. That’s about it.”
DAVIS OCHIENG - Columbus, OH
ECHO Company, Platoon 801
“I think the
most difficult
thing I did at
MMA Summer
Camp was conquering my fear
of heights and
having to rely
on strangers. I
learned how to
lead in a responsible manner, how to overcome fear and pain,
and how to become more responsible.
This camp changed me and my view of
U.S. Marines. I’m determined to try to
get in to MMA this coming school year.
I hope the Mess Hall serves chicken and
rice a lot during the school year!”
Pugil Stickin’ With Extreme Accuracy
THE CLIMB TO THE TOP CONTINUES...
Each camper steps up to heated competition in Pugil Stick competition,
but not before donning a helmet complete with full face mask, groin
protection and a protective neck roll...loads of padding+! Camper
‘warriors’ seize their weapon, a cushioned pugil stick - wooden base
wrapped with lots of styrofoam and cloth, and enter the field of mockbattle as they vie for recognition as the victor. Not only are these young
men earning bragging rights, there’s also a healthy dose of learning
self-confidence, coordination and the incredible value of teamwork when
meeting up with more than one challenger.
CRASH,
RATTLE,
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ERIK DURAND - Marksville, LA
ECHO Company, Platoon 701
“The outdoor
Circuit Course is
what I liked doing the best. The
chow was absolutely amazing.
My favorite meal
was chicken with
spaghetti sauce.
This camp was
awesome! The
hardest thing I
did was getting all the way through the
Confidence Course...SUCCESS! I
learned how to work together as a team
and not just by myself. You can accomplish a lot more if you act as a team!”
...AND THAT’S HOW WE ROLL!
BRANDO FEMATT - Mexico
ECHO Company, Platoon 701
“The chow here is pretty
good...especially
the
hamburgers, french fries
and fish! The hardest
event I conquered was that
Circuit Course. I liked doing the Obstacle, Confidence and High
Challenge Courses the best, but
that Circuit Course was
not my favorite! Probably the most I learned at
MMA Summer Camp was how important teamwork is in getting the job done right, and I also
learned that I can accomplish anything by never,
ever giving up...you just got to keep trying and
you will get it!”
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COMBAT FITNESS TEST:
THE CLIMB TO THE
TOP CONTINUES
QUICKER THAN A BOLT OF LIGHTENING OR SLOWER THAN A TURTLE SWIMMING IN
CARAMEL - TODAY YOUR PERSONAL METTLE IS PUT TO THE TEST !
All 2010 MMA campers test their personal mettle as they maneuver
through the Combat Fitness Course - some fast as lightening and a few
others at a turtle’s pace. The MMA Combat Fitness Test (CFT) Course is
a test of a camper’s physical capacity in a broad spectrum of combat
related tasks. The CFT is designed to evaluate strength, stamina, agility
and coordination as well as overall anaerobic capacity. Uniform: Long
trousers (utility trousers or sweatpants), t-shirt and boots – and LOADS
of sun screen! The CFT consists of three events; Movement to Contact
(MTC), Ammunition Lift (AL) and Maneuver Under Fire (MANUF). All
CFT events are conducted in a single session, not to exceed 2 hours in
duration. Transition between events affords campers adequate time to
recover, stretch, hydrate and prepare for the next event. Rest between
events is no less (and no more) than five (5) minutes, and that includes
filling up camel packs with water and those all-important head calls!
ADAM GILLESPIE - Ennis, TX
FOX Company, Platoon 901
“I really liked
swimming and
wish we would
have been allotted more
time in that
area. What I
really liked
best was boxing, zip line,
rappelling,
and doing PT.
Of course, the most difficult thing I accomplished in MMA Summer Camp
was the PT! I learned to have self confidence and discipline, and to look forward to the days when the Mess Hall
served up Mexican food!””
Fox Company
1) Movement to Contact (MTC) is a timed event. Preparatory command is
“Ready” and execution command is “Go”. The run course utilizes the road
around the Circuit Course - 880 yards in length. The goal is to complete the
run as quickly as possible.
2) Ammunition Lift (AL) is also a timed event with a 2 minute limit. Once
again, the preparatory command is “Ready” and the command of execution
is “Go”. The AL is a repetitive lift of a 20 pound ammunition can (no
worries, simulation only…empty!) from shoulder height to overhead,
elbows locked. Campers are paired up by weight (within 10 pounds) and by approximate height in order to facilitate
the transition to MANUF. The camper’s partner is located to the side of the individual performing the AL , and he
counts out repetitions is located to the side of the individual performing the AL. Starting position for the AL is to
hold the ammunition can sideways at the shoulder height with both hands, handle facing away, then lift with head
up, chest elevated and lumbar curve maintained. Feet remain a shoulder width apart or staggered in a basic warrior
position. The Ammunition can must be lifted to a point overhead where the elbows are momentarily locked out.
The ammunition can does not have to be lifted directly overhead. Once lock out is achieved, the ammunition can
is lowered to a point where the top of the can is at or below chin level. This counts as one repetition. Camper can
use their legs to generate upward momentum of the ammunition can. The
Nikalas Rosell - Laredo, TX
goal? Complete as many correct and complete repetitions as possible in
FOX Company, Platoon 901
a two minute time limit.
“The
most
difficult things
to accomplish
here at MMA
Summer Camp
are the Combat
Fitness Course
and the continuous PT. I really dug the Zip
Line, Mud and
Confidence
Courses, and
R a p p e l l
Tower...as well
as the spaghetti,
pizza, cereal ...
all I want! french toast and
burgers.
I
learned to have
respect
for
others, keep my
room
clean,
saying ‘Yes, Sir’
and
holding
doors for others gets you a long ways,
and I learned to handle discipline as it
is dished out as well as how to become
self-disciplined. I have to throw in
learning to listen to what the DI, ADI,
and CI tells you. I found out what I
didn’t like was doing the things that get
you yelled at. If there could have been
one activity we could have had a say in
increasing the time we spent on it, that
would have to be sleeping. I could have
used a whole lot more time in the rack
doing nothing but sleeping!”
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3) Maneuver Under Fire (MANUF) is…you guessed it, a timed event
also. The MANUF is a 300 yard shuttle run which includes a variety of
combat related tasks: Crawls, buddy drag/carry, ammunition resupply,
grenade throw and agility running. Participants are paired up by weight
(within 10 pounds) and height (within 6 inches to facilitate the buddy
drag/carry portion of the event. The partner not running the event serves
as the simulated casualty (SC) for the buddy drag/carry. The simulated
casualty proceeds to the 75 yard line and sits on the ground facing away
from the start line with legs straight, one yard inboard from the right lane
boundary. Campers start the MANUF while lying in the prone position,
chest on the ground, one yard inboard from the right boundary of their
lane. Go ahead, guess what comes next. Yup, you’re right. Preparatory
command: “Ready”, and the command of execution: “Go” sends campers
scrambling to their feet to sprint to the 25 yard line. Campers execute a
forward facing clockwise turn (“J” hook) around a marker placed 1 yard
from the right boundary, then assume a high crawl position for 10 yards.
What constitutes “the high crawl”? Maintaining contact with the ground
with elbows, knees and torso, and we’re talking about stirring up a whole
lot of dirt and dust here!
Continued on Page 9
HAN CHENG - China
FOX Company, Platoon 901
“The Leadership Course,
Rockclimbing,
and jumping
off the Power
Pole were the
activities I liked
best. The most
difficult event
was what MMA
calls ‘Stairway
To Heaven’. I
call it the ‘Scary Way To Heaven’. I
learned how to make my rack right,
march correctly, and that all I really
need to do is listen to the CI or DI. I
really like this camp and hope to come
back next year. Serve those hamburgers, french fries and chicken nuggets
any time...they’re very good! ”
EVAN SCOTT - Flagstaff, AZ
FOX Company, Platoon 1001
“I totally loved
everything we
did here at
MMA Summer
Camp...even
the PT and the
IPT! Most difficult for me were
the Obstacle
Course and
Combat Fitness Test, and
giving them my all clear to the very
end. I learned how to march, climb a
rope and be more organized. This
camp is what a person makes it. I chose
to make it fun and for me the experience was great and I learned a lot. I
want more, and I want to come back.”
Now the real fun begins! Once the feet of the SC pass
the second cone/pylon, “Casualty Stand” is sounded
so that even those with stifled hearing can hear the
command – clear as a church bell. And a miracle occurs!
The SC stands tall, and the camper lifts the SC into a
fireman’s carry position – usually with much grunting
and groaning among other verbal expressions. The SC
places the palm of one hand in the small of the back of
the camper doing the carry – ah, welcome support! The
camper transports the SC directly back to the start line,
stopping to rest or readjust ‘the load’ as necessary. Once
the SC passes through the start line, they are placed
(ever so gently) on the ground. Without so much as the
blink of an eye, the camper lifts the two ammunition
cans and transports the cans right back to the 75 yard
line, negotiating the cones/pylons while in route.
Upon reaching the 35 yard line (and make no mistake
– there are CI’s and DI’s and assistant DI’s and the
Commandant standing by to let one know EXACTLY
where the 35 yard line is marked!) campers execute a
modified high crawl for another 15 yards, bringing us
up smack-dab on the 50 yard line. You might be asking
what is a modified high crawl, and the answer would
be maintaining six points of contact with the ground
(hands, knees and feet)…kind of like a crab bailing
for the shoreline. So, now we’re at the 50 yard line.
Campers rise…and negotiate a series of cones/pylons
for 25 yards until reaching the 75 yard line. Remember
that “SC” we sent earlier to the far side of the field?
Here he waits patiently, seated at the 75 yard
line…ready to pretend he’s 2 tons of cement in a 1
ton truck!
Once the camper reaches the 75 yard line he places the
ammunition cans on the ground (ever so gently, once
again) and drops to the ground for THREE, count ‘em
out loud and proud, THREE pushups. Back to those
two ammunition cans…pick ‘em up and transport them
back to the start line, negotiating the cones/pylons in
route.
9
0
1
1
0
0
1
LUIS RODRIGUEZ - Laredo, TX
FOX Company, Platoon 1001
“I liked every
single thing in
this camp, with
the exception
of breakfast. ..
same huge
breakfast
choice every
day. Lunches
and dinners
are awesome.
The most difficult accomplishment for me was
rockclimbing
and
all
the
courses....especially the Reaction and
Circuit Courses. I learned to climb
ropes, march the right way and all the
things I wish I could do at home. I
would like to have more time to do all
the different activities.”
Upon reaching the SC, the Camper conducts a
casualty drag by reaching underneath and through
the arms of the SC, obtaining a solid grasp of both
forearms, lifting and dragging the casualty 10 yards
through the first two cones/pylons. Those CI’s, DI’s,
and Company standing by will help the Camper
remember to maintain proper lifting technique by
keeping the head up, chest elevated and the natural
curve of the lumbar spine maintained AT ALL TIMES.
The goal of this event? Complete the entire course as
quickly as possible! Okay, you’re up NEXT!
9
RAINY DAYS ON THE MUD COURSE ARE THE BEST!
THE CLIMB TO THE TOP CONTINUES...
What makes a rainy camp day aboard Camp MMA the best day yet? MUD, MUD, MUD and more MUD!
Campers catapult into the perfect
mix of soil and water, digging in
the heels of their boots on the pit’s
soggy bottom for leverage. Of
course, in the beginning the
surface appears as relatively clear
water, but after a couple of
competitively-thrashing campers
the Course becomes a fine kettle
of mud soup! Each camper dons
camouflage trousers, jacket and
pair of black combat boots from a
pile of assorted sizes before diving
into the first challenge – navigating
on their back under wire mesh,
propelling backward by grasping
the overhead wire (no barbs,
sorry!) dab off hands with a bit of
dry dirt, then take a running leap
at hanging ropes to catapult
towards a wooden deck; jump
back into the muddy brew, digging
in elbows and knees to advance
forward; belly-crawl up the bank
and roll (all while attempting to
maintain the mud and water laden
attire!); navigate through the
cement culvert; run…jump…and
hopefully maneuver up and over
the wooden wall with only the aid
of a rope on the posterior side to
grasp; over the obstacles; plunge
back into another waiting mud pit
face first and through another
partially-submerged culvert; flip
over (ahhhhh, feel the rain on your
face!), dig in heels, propel arms
backwards…then HIT THE
SHOWERS and don’t forget the
SOAP!
LUKE WALES - Madison, AL
GOLF Company, Platoon 401
“The Obstacle
Course headed
my list of favorite events, something no matter
how much time
my DI allotted
for the event I
couldn’t seem to
get enough of or
spend enough
time on. The
chow was great, something to really
look forward to. Especially when the
meal was cheeseburgers...those were
the best I’ve had. The hardest thing I
overcame at MMA Summer Camp was
staying away from home for so long.
Texas gets really hot and humid!”
10
COLE CARDENAS - Baton Rouge, LA
GOLF Company, Platoon 301
“For me, I
totally enjoyed
the
Boxing
during MMA
S u m m e r
Camp...that
was really fun!
The chow here
was
pretty
good. My favorite meal
would have to
be the enchiladas. The most difficult
event I accomplished was total
completion of the Circuit Course. I
learned to give new ideas a chance,
and that taking a chance will usually
turn out well.”
Golf Company
MATT BUIE - Houston, TX
GOLF Company, Platoon 401
“Jumping off that
telephone pole
was the hardest
thing I did. I like
heights, but jumping from on top of
a pole was just
scary. I really liked
paintball...it was
so awesome to
shoot my roommate! The Confidence Course was cool, too. I enjoyed
climbing the Stairway To Heaven and
lots at the Back 40. I learned not to
judge people at first glance, to try everything at least once, and to always
face my fears. Chow was
awesome...chix-fried steak, mashed
potatoes, blueberry pie hit the spot!”
MILES NEAL - Carrollton, GA
GOLF Company, Platoon 401
“The Boxing
Smoker was
‘hands down’
the very best
part of MMA
S u m m e r
C a m p !
Throughout
the four weeks
I did learn
that respecting someone my own age is possible. I learned a lot from the CI’s.
The hardest event for me was the
Circuit Course. The chow was mostly
pretty good, especially the burgers
and fries.”
SO MANY CHALLENGES: 24-7!
THE CLIMB TO THE TOP NEARS THE FINISH LINE...
C’MON UP! CLIMBING
MMA’S 30 FOOT TOWER
HEAD ON DOWN! ZIPPING OFF
MMA’S 30 FOOT TOWER
HIGH DIVE FROM POWER POLE!
THE HIGH CHALLENGE COURSE
LEADERSHIP SKILL PRACTICE
ON L.E.A.D. REACTION COURSE
DRILL EVALUATION: PLATOON VS.
PLATOON FOR ALL THE GOLD!
CAMP PERRY FUN: ARCHERY,
CANOEING AND A COOL SWIM
IT’S YOUR TEAM VS. MY TEAM
ON THE PAINTBALL COURSE!
BOXING COMPETITION: A HEALTHY
EXCHANGE OF VIM AND VIGOR
3
0
1
4
0
1
JULIO DEL RIO CLAVELL - San Antonio, TX
GOLF Company, Platoon 301
“The absolute
best event I experienced at
MMA Summer
Camp was Boxing. The hardest
event for me was
completing the
Circuit Course,
although I did it
multiple times. I
learned to trust others and push myself harder. Oh, and to make my rack
right the first time. The food was amazingly good. They could serve me those
TALLER,SELF-CONFIDENT,MARCHING
hamburgers and fries for every single NOTHING HEATS UP SUMMER
meal! I missed my slushies, though. ” CAMP SUNDAY LIKE THE IRON MAN WITH PRIDE... PARENTS GETAPEEKAT
COMPETITION!
THEIRSONDURINGFIELDMEETFRIDAY!
RIFLE WRANGLIN’ ABOARD GILMORE
MARKSMANSHIP TRAINING CENTER
GEORGE STEINMETZ III Kansas City, KS
GOLF Company, Platoon 301
“MMA Summer
Camp
taught me that
being a Marine
is very hard. In
fact, the most
difficult thing
I’ve
ever
accomplished
is finishing this
camp.
I
seriously could
hardly wait until graduation...but I
did it and I did everything. Truthfully,
the thing I did during camp that I
liked doing the best was closing my
eyes and sleeping. Every morning I
got to have eggs and bacon, though.
That was pretty good!”
11
ENGLISH-AS-A-SECOND-LANGUAGE
CAMP: Getting It ‘Egg-zactly Correct!
ZAMHYR FLORES DAGDA - Mexico
ESL Company
ESL classes made great strides in a short amount of
time during MMA Camp 2010. On the first
Wednesday, in groups of 6, they cut one end off of
each egg…a total of 6 eggs per group. Next, they
drained the egg from the shell, then trimmed the edges
with scissors, covering the remaining shell with
masking tape. Arranging the eggs in a square
formation, each group balanced one book on top of
the frame at a time…for a winning group balancing
the target goal of 13 books atop the structure. “Every
activity, in addition to students’ regular academic
classes, quizzes and tests, every activity is yet
another opportunity for our ESL students to practice
proper sentence structure and usage of the English
language,” remarks ESL teacher David Allen.
Next, the class learned about the strength of
structures and arch-like shapes. All discussion
must be in English-only during class hours,
and Mr. Allen reminds students every so often.
“What would you change to make your group’s
structure stronger?” Mr. Allen inquires. “I would put
more egg shells to the center,” responds Camper
Fernandez Verboonen authoritatively. Each group
was tasked with redesigning their structure, to be
tested Thursday morning during class.
Besides learning firsthand the difference between
DAMP and SOAKED as they scurried through
Thursday morning’s downpour to get inside the
classroom, students learned there are several angles
and options to balancing 13 books atop egg
shells…yes, ladies and gentlemen, atop
EGGSHELLS!
The entire ESL unit was relieved to find the Gulf
breezes had picked up just enough to launch
students’ self-designed kites mid-morning on
Thursday, July 15th. The students’ collection of
colorful self expressions were fastened to the ‘spine’
12
of the kites with kite string and a handy bright
blue hand grip, then launched into the bright
blue yonder from all directions of the freshlymowed field.
Later in the Camp, students aka ‘rocket
scientists’ detonated their hand-crafted
rockets in the sun-drenched morning hours.
Using English-only instructions and the
English-only direction and assistance of ESL
Teacher David Allen, each 2-man group
prepared their model rocket for launch,
stuffing ‘wadding’ in the rocket body, attaching
the detonation wires, making last-minute
adjustments aboard the ‘proving ground’,
then beating feet to the safety zone for the
moment of truth: LAUNCH!
ESL teachers Diolanda Dye and Pat
Flores, and D.I. Adrian Arranaga stood
by as each group detonated their rocket and,
as
classmates
counted
down...FIVE...FOUR...THREE...TWO...
ONE. The rockets launched far above into
the bright blue Texas sky. Parachutes
opened and brisk winds carried the rockets
near and far as each group scurried to
retrieve what was left of the rockets.
That afternoon, ESL students were surprised
to see the fruits of their labors pay off. For the
past 18 days, ESL students had become
‘surrogate parents’… TO EGGS! Each day
under the watchful supervision of the ESL
teachers the students gently turned each egg.
Day 18 arrived and the eggs began to crack
and move about. Six chicks were hatched!
“They’re so small! Look at the wings…so-so
small!” exclaims a student as he draws the
chick closer to his face for observation.
“The hardest
thing
I
accomplished
at MMA was
doing more
than
five
push-ups and
running with
ESL
Company for PT
and IPT. I learned that when you
have a problem you can count on
the others to help you out. I liked
the High Challenge Course and
Paintball the best...and Dang’s
wake-up call. The hot dogs, hamburgers and macaroni were delicious. My ESL teachers were all
very good people.”
RICARDO FERNANDEZ- Mexico
ESL Company
“What I liked
best about being here at
MMA this summer are all the
courses
the
we’ve
completed. I think
the
hardest
thing I accomplished is learning to be cautious in all situations and to think before I act. I also learned the importance of leadership, how to be a leader,
and to be responsible for me and my
stuff. The food has been great, chicken
parmesan is the best! The ESL teachers were awesome. I’ve had a great
time.”
YI XIAN LIU - China
ESL Company
“While I was
at MMA, I
liked exercising the
best,
although that
morning
run was the
hardest
thing I was
able to accomplish. I learned so
many new things: How to use
English, the power of teamwork,
how to have courage, and so
many other things. The food was
very good. In fact, I liked every
meal!”
SPOTLIGHT
SERIES
Working towards a common vision,
the Board of Trustees and Advisors and the employees of Marine Military Academy
are committed to academic excellence and to the development in our Cadets of self-discipline
and a sense of responsibility to the community at large. Who are these individuals? The Academy is
excited to bring you the SPOTLIGHT SERIES, highlighting a Board Trustee or Advisor and an Academy
staff member or department in each edition of the Academy’s newsletter, The LEADER.
Tom Hobbs
Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps (Ret)
(Retiring) MMA Admissions Director
William M. Keys
Lieutenant General, U.S. Marine Corps (Ret)
MMA Emeritus Board Chairman Trustee
Tom Hobbs was born and raised in Roseburg, Oregon. Athletic from the get-go, he
attended Oregon State University on an athletic scholarship with aspirations of playing
pro-baseball. A realist at heart, Tom’s ‘backup’ plan was to pursue a career of coaching
and teaching. As he continued his college education, the Vietnam War escalated...
young men were susceptible to being drafted on a moment’s notice, without input as
to which military department they would serve. Tom paid heed to the advice of several
fraternity brothers and penned his signature to set sail for Officer Candidate School
upon graduation. When Graduation day arrived, Tom was shipped out to The Basic
School, on to Camp Lejeune, North Carolina for a Caribbean deployment, then to
Vietnam. He arrived back in the states a year later, stationed in San Francisco on duty
assignment with a brand new outlook on the Marine Corps. There he met his future
wife, Jane Jackson hailing from Marshall Minnesota, and they were married a year
later. Of Colonel Hobbs’ 26 years of commissioned service in Marine Corps, the
greater portion was served as an Infantry Officer involved in teaching and training. He
served as Commander at each level - from platoon to regiment. In Vietnam, he
served as Platoon and Company Commander; and during Desert Storm he commanded
3,500 marines and sailors of the Second Marine Regiment with a spread load across
11 amphibious ships; and served as Ground Combat Element of the 4th Marine
Expeditionary Brigade. Colonel Hobbs instructed for three years at The Basic School
located in Quantico, Virginia and later on at the Marine Corps Command and Staff
College where he also served as Dean of Academics. At the time of his retirement
from the Marine Corps in 1993, Col Hobbs’ tours of duty had taken him in a complete
circle back to Camp Lejeune where he was serving as Chief of Staff of the 2nd Marine
Division. Marine Military Academy (MMA) made Colonel Hobbs an offer tasty
enough to embark him on his “second career” - MMA Commandant of Cadets in July
1993, and he accepted. Wife Jane, and two sons - Jeffrey and Peter, accompanied
Colonel Hobbs on his “last tour of duty” where he would serve the next 17 years as
MMA Commandant, Director of Institutional Advancement, and finally Director of
Admissions. Named as a General H.M. Smith “Fellow” in 2008, Col Hobbs’ keen
insight, wise stewardship, leadership, loyalty, and jovial humor have been key to
MMA’s continued success. MMA wishes Col Hobbs ‘fair winds and following seas
as he embarks on his ‘second’ retirement.
A native of Fredericksburg, Pennsylvania, General Keys was commissioned a
second lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corps upon his graduation from the U.S.
Naval Academy with a B.S. Degree in June 1960. His professional military
education includes The Basic School, Amphibious Warfare School and the
Command and Staff College, all at Quantico, Virginia. General Keys is also a
graduate of the National War College in Washington, D.C., and holds an M.S.
degree from American University and an honorary Ph.D. in Public Service from
Washington and Jefferson College. He has held the following principal staff
assignments: Infantry Monitor in the Officer Assignment Branch, Personnel
Management Division, Headquarters Marine Corps; Marine Corps Liaison Officer
to the U.S. Senate; Special Projects Directorate in the Office of the Commandant;
Aide de Camp to the Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps; Deputy
Director, and subsequently Director, Personnel Management Division, Manpower
and Reserve Affairs Department, HQMC; and as Joint Secretariat, Joint Chiefs
of Staff, Washington, D.C. General Keys’ decorations and medals include: the
Navy Cross; Distinguished Service Medal; Silver Star; Legion of Merit with
Combat “V”; Bronze Star with Combat “V”; Defense Meritorious Service Medal;
Combat Action Ribbon; Presidential Unit Citation; Navy Unit Commendation;
Meritorious Unit Commendation; National Defense Service Medal; Vietnam
Service Medal with four bronze stars; Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry
with Palm and Silver Star; Republic of Vietnam Armed Forces Honor Medal
(First Class); Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation (Gallantry Cross
Color); Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation (Civil Actions Color); and
the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal. General Keys retired from the Marine
Corps in 1994 and assumed the position of President/CEO of Colt Manufacturing
Inc. in 1999. General Keys has been affiliated with the Marine Military Academy
since 1987. Keeping a promise to longtime friend General Glasgow, MMA
President in 1991, General Keys presented to MMA one of the first Soviet-made
152mm D 20 towed howitzers captured by the 2nd Marine Division during the
Persian Gulf War near Kuwait City after it was abandoned by fleeing Iraqi forces.
General Keys became a Trustee in 1994 and is Chairman Emeritus of the Board.
General Keys was key in MMA’s recruitment of Colonel Tom Hobbs, USMC
(Ret) and past-President Major General Wayne Rollings, USMC (Ret).
13
Alumni Corner .........................
HOT OFF THE PRESS!
‘06
MMA ‘84 Alum Gilbert Frriedmann (on left) visits with
MMA Alumni Director LtCol Bob Grider, USMC (Ret)
(on right)
ALUMNI Office Ph: (956) 421-9230
E-Mail: [email protected]
David “Trae” Miller graduated from The Naval Academy and was commissioned May 28, 2010. He is now a 2nd Lt in the USMC, stationed
in Quantico Virginia going through the Basic School, on target to graduate January 2011!
‘05
Attention Alumni,
I am in the process of updating all of our “Captain Boards”
and need some help. If you can remember who served
as the team “Captain” on any of the sports between
1994 and 2008 I would appreciate it if you could forward
them to me ([email protected]) so that I can bring
those boards up to date. Thank you for your assistance.
Chris Elliott
Athletic Director
Marine Military Academy
Be sure to E-Mail your updates to [email protected]
for inclusion in the Leader! Include graduation year or
last year of attendance, and very importantly, we need
your express permission to print home addresses,
wives’ names and children’s names/ages!
Thanks, Mickie Pickens
Lt. Winston Elliott IV graduated from Army Field Artillery Officer School
29 June 2010, off to the 82nd Airborne, 1st BCT (Ft. Bragg NC).
14
Need to find out what’s going on with a fellow alum?
Get on board MMA’s on-line “Alumni Bulletin Board”.
Fill out the Alumni Information Request form located
on-line: http://www.mma-tx.org/alumni.htm or call
Connie Flores at (956) 421-9232.
Get on Board: ALL ALUMNI, ALL THE TIME!
GRADUATION DAY DAWNS
SUMMER AND ESL CAMPERS’ CLIMB TO THE TOP IS COMPLETE!
MMA President BGen Stephen Cheney, U.S. Marine Corps (Ret) challenges campers to carry forward their successes and leadership skills
learned at MMA Summer Camp 2010...and remember, Mom, your son knows how to make his own bed!
All campers wearing a red ball cap during Summer Camp Graduation will return for the Academic Year to continue their quest to achieve academic,
physical and spiritual excellence. Pictured above, L-R: Camper soon-to-be Cadet Iverson Cimino and Mom (will join brother Victor who’s already
attending MMA); Camper soon-to-be Cadet Logan Michael Kerr; and Camper Andrew Eikermann with Delta DI SgtMaj Carson, USMC (Ret).
15
Memorials
• Col H. William “Bill” Card, Jr.,
USMC (Ret)
• PFC Roger Gonzales / KIA 11/29/
50 Korea F/2/7 San Pedro, CA
• 1stLt Roland C. Hamilton, USMC,
KIA VN 1969
• Cpl Jack M. Hopkins - KIA, RVN
• Dana Paige Labar McMurray
• Suzanne H. Olesen
• Sgt Dennis Studenny, USMC
(Ret) - 5th Marines, RVN
• Donald S. Youlen
In Honor
Of:
• Ben Zale
TAPS
Colonel H. William “Bill” Card Jr.’s obituary reads: H. William “Bill” Card Jr. of
Harlingen, TX, passed into heaven on July 18, 2010, God’s good and faithful
servant. Bill was born in New Orleans, Louisiana on July 3, 1922. He grew up in
California before beginning a life of dedicated service to his country through his
tour of duty in the Marine Corps. Bill Card enlisted in the Marine Corps Reserve
on his 17th birthday in 1939 and was sworn in by his father, Brigadier General
Horace W. Card, USMC. Colonel Card served 29 years in the U.S. Marine Corps
in a variety of commands, staff, diplomatic, education and joint services duties,
his career culminating in staff assignment with the Joint Chiefs of Staff, following
graduation from the National War College, Washington, D.C. in 1967. After his
H. William “Bill” retirement from military service, Colonel Card chose Harlingen as his home.
Card Jr.
Just as he served his country those many years in the Corps, he chose to serve
July 1922-July 2010 his community here in the Valley. In 1968, he joined the Marine Military Academy
• U.S. MARINE
as Commandant of Cadets, Senior Marine Instructor and Director of Development.
CORPS (Ret)
After his retirement from the Academy in 1975, Colonel Card went into banking,
• MMA
all the while remaining on the Board of Trustees for the Marine Military Academy.
Commandant, In January of 1987, he was sworn in as Mayor of Harlingen, a role he was
Senior Marine honored to hold until 1998. Colonel Card’s legacy will live on in his great works;
Instructor, Director works that came from his deep seated commitment to “Duty, Honor, Country.”
- Development He was an Officer and a Gentleman, in every sense. The Marine motto, “Semper
• Mayor, Harlingen Fi” exemplified Bill Card’s life…always faithful.”
1987-1998
• MMA Board
Trustee
MARINE MILITARY ACADEMY sends heartfelt condolences to the family of
Colonel Bill Card Jr. on the loss of their loved one.
YOUR Opportunities to Support MARINE MILITARY ACADEMY
Scholarship Programs
• General Scholarship
• Endowed Scholarship Fund
Naming Opportunities
Planned Giving
• Charitable Gift Annuities
• Establishment of Trusts
• Bequests
• Gift of Residence with Right
to Use the Property
Memorial Trees
Brick Pavers
Calendar of Events
August
18
September
11
MMA Parents Org. Meeting 0830
Introductory Training Graduation
(Plebes) 1000
October
9
SAT 0800
13 PSAT 0800
20-22 First Quarter Exams
23 ACT 0800
November
4
5
6
Parents’ Weekend Begins
Parents’ Day - Short Classes 0730
Birthday Ball Parade 1600
Football Game 1400
Birthday Ball Reception & Ball
ARE YOU READY FOR SOME
LEATHERNECK FOOTBALL?
August
27
Santa Maria H.S.: Home 1930
3
10
17
24
Bruni H.S: Away 1900
Open
St. Josephs Academy: Home 1930
Ben Bolt H.S.: Away 1930
1
Grulla H.S: Home 1930
(Rio Grande City)
Sharyland JV: Home 1800
Brownsville Veterans H.S.: Home
1930
La Villa H.S.:Home 1930
Cornerstone: Away 1400
(San Antonio)
September
October
7
15
22
29
November
6
Athletic Equipment
Classes Begin
Sharyland JV: Home 1100
(Birthday Ball/Homecoming)
Tax-Deductible Cash Donation
Visit personally with staff to determine which opportunity best fits your lifestyle
by calling (956) 421-9231 or simply send your e-mail request to [email protected]. Credit card and check donations can be made anytime by visiting http://
mma-tx.org/opportunities1.htm for on-line TAX-DEDUCTIBLE gifts by credit card.
NATHANIEL BOWMAN, age 12 from Los Angeles, CA: FOX Company, Platoon 1001
“My DI, ADI and CI’s were very strict, but I’m happy they
were...they pushed me to do more than I’ve ever done before,
and I hope to come back next Summer and do even more!
I learned so much...leadership, self-discipline...and I
accomplished a lot. The Combat Fitness Test was the hardest
for me. My favorites were weight lifting, paintball, boxing,
competitions in King Gym, Sundays, and eating cheeseburgers
and fries in the Mess Hall!”
CHECK OUT THE ‘KODAK’ MOMENTS OF MMA’S SUMMER AND ESL CAMP
ABOARD MMA’S WEB SITE “WHAT’S NEW” - PHOTOGRAPHS MOVE TO MMA
SUMMER CAMP WEB SITE SEPTEMBER 2010 WHERE THEY WILL REMAIN.
MMA LEADER
A monthly publication of
MMA PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICE
320 Iwo Jima Blvd./Harlingen, Tx. 78550
Telephone: (956) 421-9235
Web Site: http://www.mma-tx.org
E-mail Address: [email protected]
PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICER
Debbie L. Wieland