CMU ROTC Newsletter
Fall Field Training Exercise
October 3rd and 4th was the Chippewa Battalion Fall Field Training Exercise (FTX) for the 2024 year! Both CMU and FSU participated in this event together.
The FTX was composed of events such as FLRC, Day Land Navigation, Patrol Base Operations, Range Day, Warrior skills, and ended strong with flights in Black Hawks. Thank you to the Cadre and unit from the Michigan National Guard, who could coordinate the “up-lifting” end to our FTX!
Good job to our MSIIIs, and thank you the other Cadets who joined us on this fun training exercise!
Culminating Training Event
On November 23rd, Chippewa Battalion held a Culminating Training Event CTE) as the last tactical lab of the year. It gave our MSIIIs the opportunity to test their leadership skills and have FSU and CMU come together to train. We applaud everyone for their hardwork and for sticking through the chilly weather!
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Table of Contents
Fall FTX & Culminating Training Event ....................................
Table of Contents & Upcoming Events........................................
State of the Chippewa Battalion.................................................
Update from the Alumni President & PMS cont........................
New Commissions Summer and Fall 2024................................
Newly Contracted Cadets ...........................................................
Cadet's Summer Internships......................................................
Academic Awards........................................................................
Meet the boom that sounds after CMU scores...........................
Operation Love Lighting.............................................................
Our Distinguished Military Graduates.......................................
FSU Queens Guard/ Cannon Club..............................................
CMU ROTC to shine on national stage at Folds of Honor.........
Flag Officer Leadership Symposium / POW/ MIA day .............
Bold Warrior Challenge / CMU Maroon Award.........................
CMU / FSU / WMU ROTC Ball Run / Turkey Bowl....................
Branch Night / Cadet Chain of Command..................................
Thank you COL Ted Hummel (Ret.) / Denise Memorial ...........
Alumni Board...............................................................................
Cadre and Staff............................................................................
Upcoming Events
Spring 2025
Classes resume JAN 13
Nolde Lecture
JAN 23 - Broadway Theater, Mt. Pleasant
Spring Break
MAR 10-16
Spring JLDX
MAR 23-25 - Fort Custer, MI
Army Combat Fitness Testing (ACFT)
FEB 12-13 - CMU SAC
FEB 18-20 - FSU
APR 16-17 - CMU On Campus
APR 22-24 - FSU
Military Ball, Awards Ceremony and Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony
APR 17 - Location TBD
Culminating Training Exercise (CTE) APR 26
End of Year Picnic & Award Ceremony MAY 1
Commissioning Ceremonies MAY 10: Locations TBD
Kudos to the student Public Affairs Office: CDT Phinney, CDT Saagman, CDT Seeley, 2LT Rivera, and all other collaborators who post articles on the media!
Visit Us on Social Media to stay up to date on current events!
CMUROTC
State of the Chippewa Battalion
By: LTC Ryan Greening
Greetings from Mount Pleasant, Michigan! Since our return from Cadet Summer Training 2024, we’ve been moving forward at full speed with the training and development of the future leaders of our nation. I’m excited to share that we have two new cadre members who have seamlessly integrated into our team. Their mentorship of our senior Cadets has empowered them to take on leadership roles with our underclassmen. Please join me in welcoming MSG Charles Lee, our Senior Military Science Instructor at Central Michigan University, and CPT Jacob McConnell, our new Assistant Professor of Military Science at Ferris State University.
This summer, we proudly commissioned two of the Army’s newest Second Lieutenants. Congratulations to 2LT Joseph Saad (Active Army QM) and 2LT Sean Carl (IN, MIARNG)!
We've had a busy Fall semester, executing a variety of events that foster camaraderie, professional development, and community engagement. In August, we held a reintegration and welcome-back picnic for our returning and new Cadets. We also supported the Folds of Honor Golf Tournament in Grand Haven, MI, kicking it off with a cannon shot from Genny’s Own. In September, we organized the annual CMU POW/MIA Flag Raising and Recognition Day and hosted the annual Flag Officer Leadership Symposium (20 SEP).
In October, we conducted our Fall Field Training Exercise (FTX) at both CMU and FSU. Activities included team-building exercises at the CMU FLRC, land navigation at FSU Rodgers Heights, bivouac, a live-fire range, and a Black Hawk flight that included the FSU university president, Dr. Bill Pink.
In November we participated in the Ranger Challenge Team Bold Warrior Competition at Ft. Knox (1-3 NOV), joined WMU for our annual CMU-WMU Ball Run (19 NOV), and finished our fall events with our Turkey Bowl (26 NOV). Our Leadership Labs maintain a rigorous yet healthy/safe learning environment. Our focus is on developing our MSIII’s leadership roles and preparing them for the upcoming Cadet Summer training evaluations, as well as orientating our MSI and MSII of Army standards and ensuring they meet all contracting requirements.
On 05 DEC our senior Cadets received their Army Branch Selections. We honored them and their families, recognizing the hard work the Cadets put in to earn their selections with a Branch Night social at the PohlCat in Mount Pleasant. The following are the compiled results of everyone’s received branches: MIARNG; CDT Saagman – Ordnance, CDT Brown – Transportation, CDT Bullard - Field Artillery. USAR; CDT Curtis – Transportation, CDT Padilla – Engineer. Active Army; CDT Buys – Infantry, CDT Ide – Quartermaster, CDT MacDonald- Field Artillery, CDT Draft – Aviation, and CDT Phinney – Quartermaster.
The before mentioned events illustrated our partnership with CMU this semester but do not foretell the additional smaller outreach events done with the community to include various Color Guard events, Cannon support at CMU and FSU home football games, and the various fundraiser and recruiting events our Cadets participate in ensure our program’s story is known throughout Michigan.
Our story has many achievements to tell, including producing nationally recognized two distinguished military graduates (CDT Draft/CDT Buys). The following statistics are from the 2024 Cadet Summer Training results, (7) Cadets attended: 100% graduated with an individual high OMS score of 89.08, (1) Cadet attended CTLT at Ft Bliss, (1) Cadet attended an internship at Ft Irwin. Kudos to the Cadre for their dedicated mentorship and to our Cadets for performing under challenging and stressful conditions!
Continued on next page...
Our Winter commissioning ceremony for our (4) newest 2LTs was performed flawlessly on 14 DEC at CMU and FSU. Our Program was represented at the CMU commencement ceremony with the ceremonial Oath of Office performed in the beginning of the event, demonstrating how the Army is part of our national identity. Thanks to the CMU and FSU faculty and for our Cadre, Staff, and Cadets who made these events possible! Goodluck and Godspeed to the Army’s newest Lieutenants: 2LT Alexis Rivera (MS MIARNG), 2LT Nicholas Diotte (OD MIARNG), 2LT Chole Miller (Active Army Nurse) and 2LT Cole Kirsch (Active Army EN).
Focused efforts: Our continued focus is to ensure the CDTs today and future 2LTs are best equipped, able to train, and ready to support and lead in our nation’s future conflicts. We are moving forward with both CMU and FSU to improve our current training areas and capabilities. We recently renewed a ten-year ROTC program extension status with Ferris State. We are now in the process of purchasing a contract for the development and emplacement of an obstacle course within our training area. This obstacle course is designed like the Sabalauski Confidence Course. It will improve CDTs physical fitness; and will also serve to entice others to join the program. This will also serve as a means for other departments in the university to utilize;to promote teamwork camaraderie among students, faculty, and staff. We are also looking toward additional ways to promote this ROTC program statewide, utilizing the universities recruiting efforts and your support to spread our story.
As I reflect on our past achievements, I cannot help but be optimistic and focused on our future. Our Upcoming events in the Spring semester 2025 include our annual Nolde lecture at CMU (23 JAN), Water Survival Training (5 MAR), JLDX (21-23 MAR), Military Ball (18 APR) and Commissioning (10 MAY).
I hope you find this latest edition of our Newsletter informative!
Update from the ROTC Alumni Board President
Hello and “hooah!” to all Cadets, Cadre, Alumni, and families of the Chippewa Battalion (CMU, Ferris, Alma, and Northwood)! As of 28 Oct 24, I have jumped into the hot seat as the newly elected CMU Army ROTC Alumni Board President. The new board is off and running with our first “working session” completed on 10 Dec 24.
Your Board members are: Judge Mester 59’, Terry Moore 65’, BG Kulhavi 65’, Ken Fauth 66’, John Fisher 70’, Chuck Donnell 87’, Curt Royer 88’, MG Darren Werner 88’, Wayne Linderman 89’.
This team is reviewing how we can do things better and also how we can help the Chippewa Battalion move forward. We’re reviewing our By-Laws and Procedures, Strategic Plan as well as the CMU Master Plan (facilities). On 16 Jan 24 we will have the opportunity to meet with President MacKinnon and share some of these ideas with him and help build greater support for the ROTC program. I hope to do the same with leadership at Ferris, Alma and Northwood too.
Our mission, as we see it currently, can be summed up in three major points: #1 Staff & Cadet connection - develop a relationship and support the Cadets and Cadre through regular participation in the program and continuity between Battalion leaders. #2 Alumni relations – welcome new Alumni at graduation and provide a life-long connection to CMU ROTC. #3 Outreach – help promote the CMU ROTC program and develop financial resources.
Stealing words from my predecessor, we continue to witness the outstanding display of dedication from the ROTC Cadre as they train, educate and embrace their responsibilities in developing future leader of the United States Army. The Alumni are in a key position to support them with our esprit de corps, time and resources. With that, I ask for your support, resources, connections and involvement. Please join us as we continue to solider-on together as we build upon the foundation that ROTC provided us only a few years ago.
Got our six!
Wayne Linderman, 89’ U.S. Army Aviation, Above the Best!
Commissioning Ceremonies
2LT Saad and 2LT Carl
2LT Joseph Saad transitioned from his career as an NCO to a commissioned officer last August 23, 2024. His wife Jenna (2nd from the left) and daughters Lillian (left) and Olivia (far right), had the honor of pinning the ranks on his uniforms and hat. He commissioned active duty and branched Quartermaster after completing a Master's in Business Administration with an outstanding 4.00 GPA!
2LT Sean A. Carl (above to the right), talks to Cadre, family, and friends gathered to celebrate his commission on September 28, 2024. He branched Infantry in the Michigan National Guard.
2LT Rivera and 2LT Diotte
LTC Greening (left) administered the Oath of Office to 2LT Alexis Rivera (center) and 2LT Nicholas Diotte (right) during the CMU comencement ceremony on December 14, 2024.
Their commissioning ceremony occured later that afternoon. Both are National Guard with Alexis branching in Medical Service and Nick in Ordnance.
2LT Kirsch and 2LT Miller
LOCAL ARTIST
The quick brown fox jumped shimmering pool of rainwater that had gathered since the last
2LT Cole Kirsch (left) and 2LT Chloe Miller (right) proudly displayed their appointment orders as 2LT at their commissioning ceremony at FSU. Their commencement ceremony was earlier on December 14, 2024.
Newly Contracted Cadets
Autum Lowe
Matthew Smith
Ian McDonald
FSU
Phillip Brown
Ethen Howay
Eliana Jenkins
Kyle MacDonald
Elijah Mosley
Mileea Seelye
Donovan Stein
CDT Lowe (1st from the right) and CDT Smith (2nd from the right) take the contracting oath
CDT Stein
CDT Howay
CDT Jenkins
CDT MacDonald
CDT Mosley
CDT McDonald (center)
Cadet Summer Internships 2024
By Chloe M Miller
I had the opportunity to participate in the Nurse Summer Training Program (NSTP). My NSTP rotation was at Ft. Irwin, California at the National Training Center. While there, I was able to do rotations on Med-Surg, OB, PACU, ER, and OR units. Not only are Cadets given opportunities to develop their nursing clinical skills in a hospital setting while following Army nurses, but they are also given a glimpse of what the day-to-day looks like for an Active-Duty Army nurse. I had the opportunity to talk with nurses from many varying backgrounds of the Army and nursing experience. While there my fellow Cadets and I completed an evidence-based project regarding medication administration and education for patients that the hospital will work on implementing. We spent a day on the helipad talking with flight medics and learning the ins and outs of their role in transporting patients to the hospital.
On days off we were given opportunities to explore exciting places in the area such as San Diego, Los Angeles, and Big Bear! We were also given the opportunity to go into the Box which is where all of the training on post takes place. It was interesting to see many aspects of the operations on post and how they all play into each other to achieve a common goal.
By CDT Lexus Phinney
Last summer, I had the opportunity to shadow a medical officer at a veterinary detachment in the small unit at Fort Liberty, formerly Fort Bragg. This experience provided a unique insight into the roles and responsibilities within a medical services unit. The officer was the XO of the detachment not only demonstrated his duties but also facilitated my interaction with other medical detachments, offering a broader perspective on field hospital setups and training exercises.
During my time, I joined a team of veterinarians on an inspection of a local gas station's food services, a task that mirrored my father’s footsteps as a vet. The veterinarians' expertise in animal anatomy and health made them ideal for conducting thorough food inspections.
I strongly recommend the Cadet Troop Leader Training (CTLT) program to fellow Cadets. Despite the additional month away from home, the program offers invaluable exposure to the daily operations and administrative duties of an officer. Observing their workflow and presentation of information provided me with a clearer understanding of what to expect in my future role.
Looking ahead, I eagerly anticipate joining the ranks of alumni who support our program during annual football games. Their involvement is inspiring, and I look forward to contributing as an alumni soon.
Academic Awards
Our first Lab together on August 29, 2024, was a Picnic-turned-tailgate! Awards were handed out for Spring semester accomplishments and CST complete Cadets at CMU ROTC.
After the tailgate we rolled right into our first football game of the season with the support of Canon Club and Queen’s Guard!
Meet the ‘boom’ that sounds after CMU scores
Genny’s Own football game tradition highlights ROTC’s rich history
By: Eric Baerren
It’s easy to tell when Central Michigan University’s football team scores during home football games across much of Mount Pleasant. There’s a familiar boom that almost reaches downtown.
The boom is courtesy of a piece of artillery called Genny’s Own that is crewed by CMU’s Reserve Officer Training Corps battalion – the Chippewa Battalion – and named after a woman who left a legacy of service taking care of the battalion’s Cadets.
"Genny's Own is a part of CMU and the Mount Pleasant community, a symbol of pride for the football team and its' military heritage," said Lt. Col. Ryan Greening, Chair of the Department of Military Science & Leadership. A cannon painted with maroon paint points up into the air. Genny's Own was a gift to CMU's Reserve Officer Training Corps in 1996.
Genny’s Own was named for Genevieve Swindlehurst, ROTC’s long-time administrative technician who retired after a 42-year career at CMU in 1995. To honor her service to the program, the battalion’s cannon was named Genny’s Own in 1996, the same year ROTC received the gun as a gift, according to documents supplied by CMU’s ROTC unit. Swindlehurst was also later inducted into ROTC’s Hall of Fame, and Genny’s Own was also adopted by the Chippewa Battalion as its unofficial motto.
Genny’s Own is a 75mm pack howitzer, a piece of light artillery that is easily transported into difficult terrain. These kinds of guns saw extensive service in World War II.
Genny's Own was a gift to CMU's Reserve Officer Training Corps in 1996. It was named after longtime civilian employee Genevieve Swindlehurst, who served the program for 42 years.
The Cannon Club, a club within the battalion, crews Genny’s Own during home football games, where it fires each time CMU scores. It is also used during events like the United Way campaign kickoff, Homecoming, MainStage and during the Veterans Day celebration.
It most recently made an appearance on the Golf Channel during the 3rd Annual Folds of Honor Collegiate golf tournament.
Genny’s Own is so intertwined with CMU football that it was incorporated into the EA Sports College Football 25 video game, said Major Nicholas Andrychowski, executive officer of The Chippewa Battalion.
The tradition of firing a cannon after a CMU score didn’t start with Genny’s Own. CMU’s first cannon was built –handcrafted – in 1952 out of a telephone and two spoked wheels by Reuel Cole and George Depuy, according to a 1974 Central Michigan Life article. Cole graduated from CMU in 1932 and owned a local store. Depuy taught industrial arts at CMU.
Ted Kjolhede, CMU’s athletics director from 1971 to 1984, recalled in a 1992 CM Life story that debris from a misfire once landed on top of a concession truck at the football field when it was behind Finch Fieldhouse.
ROTC took over firing the cannon after the incident, starting the tradition that is behind the game-day "booms" audible over much of Mount Pleasant.
The 75mm pack howitzer is fired when CMU scores during home football games. It also makes appearances in community events like 'The Folds of Honor', and the Homecoming Parade.
Battalion fire Genny's Own.
Left: Cadets of the Chippewa
Alumni Updates
By Arnaldo Huertas in collaboration with Antoinette Tucker
Throughout the six years I have been instructing in the ROTC program, I have seen plenty of playful smiles, smirks, hair tosses & rolls, and the awkwardness some students show when they are close to a special person. Most might be considered summer flings, but sometimes love strikes like lightning, and everlasting couples are formed. These three couples are living examples of this phenomenon.
Two couples visited our office in a walk down memory lane, and the third; well, we are happy they bought a house! Mr. Rich Markel (1966 – 71) and his wife Pam dropped by to visit the ROTC office on October 10, to go down ‘memory lane’. He mentioned how nice our office was in comparison to how the office was when he was a Cadet. They both had fond memories of CMU and ROTC. They shared about taking classes and having practices in Finch - where he would practice, and she (a physical Ed Major) would be outside ‘protesting’ during the late 1960s.
He spoke fondly of being a part of the Drill Team – where he said one had to ‘try-out’ - and enjoyed traveling and competing across the state for CMU ROTC. They also mentioned attending the Military Ball in the past. They currently live in Canadian Lakes.
Bottom Right: Joan (Konwinski), class of '92 and Kevin Carrick from '90, visited our office on July 11, 2024 walking on memory lane along their two sons. They met while participating in the program and now live in Bristow,
Brandon Schumaker and Mikah Havenaar of class '22 shared good times for four years in the ROTC program, now sharing their first home and life together in Florida!
Pam and Rich Markel smile and pose for the camera!
Our Distinguished Military Graduates
By CDT Caleb Buys
Hello everyone, I’m CDT Buys. For those who don’t know me, I started ROTC as a freshman after returning from 13J school and officially contracted two and a half years later. Initially, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to become a Cadet, much like I questioned whether the National Guard was right for me. But through the annual training exercises, ROTC clubs, and conversations with my ROTC cadre, I found my motivation to commit to becoming a Cadet and eventually commissioning as a Second Lieutenant.
I wanted to make a difference for others who, like me, were unsure about their path. My leadership and cadre inspired me to pursue that role. Every experience I’ve had in the Army and in ROTC has been meaningful—good or tough. It was always the people to my left and right who helped me push through the difficult moments. That camaraderie motivated me to become the person others could rely on during challenging times.
I’ve been fortunate to have strong leadership and incredible peers in my Army journey, and I wanted to give that same support back. This goal has driven me to stay involved and push myself. Whenever I felt like wavering—whether it was getting up for PT, participating in an ROTC club, or volunteering for an event—I asked myself how I would want to be led. Would I follow someone who does the bare minimum, or someone who gives their best not because they have to or because someone’s watching, but because they genuinely want to excel and be more than the standard?
This mindset pushed me to put in the effort—not for a rank or an award, but for the people I may one day lead. I challenge anyone reading this to think about your subordinates and ask yourself, “How would I want to be led?”
“Good times become good memories, but bad times become good lessons.” — Uncle Iroh
By Gillian Draft
CST OPFOR provided a unique opportunity to immerse myself in military training, enhance my tactical skills, and be a part of to the development of Cadets who are preparing evaluated leadership roles in Panther/Grizzly phases. It was challenging but a valuable experience ahead of CST 2024. I recommend volunteering for CST OPFOR to MS II Cadets. You will play a vital role in the learning process for MS IIIs. After each training repetition, you'll provide feedback to Cadets on their performance. Constructive feedback will help Cadets identify areas for improvement and enhance their understanding of the challenges they will face in during evaluated leadership positions.
By MAJ Nicholas Andrychowski
Additionally, Cadet Draft (MIARNG SMP) attended Basic Combat Training in Summer of 2022. She was named Distinguished Honor Graduate, a significant achievement and recognition of exceptional performance. This honor is awarded to the top-performing Soldier in their Company. Earning the title of Distinguished Honor Graduate is a testament to Cadet Draft’s dedication, hard work, and commitment to excellence during the challenging and demanding process of basic training. This is truly a recognition of her unlimiunlimited potential to excel in the Chippewa Battalion and her future military career.
FSU Queens Guard/Cannons Club
By: Elijah Mosley
Queens Guard has been a great opportunity for Ferris State Cadets to show their respect by raising the colors during the National Anthem, during the Ferris State home football game. With over 8 Cadets each game, taking the time to present the American flag, they get to experience the sense of pride, and commitment to their country. Each Cadet also experiences respect from people around them.
Brutis learns how to get a shot of the cannon.
Queens Guard and Cannon Club make a huge, positive impact on every Cadet; to be able to get a chance to represent ROTC and enjoy the football games.
A !!BONUS!! experience you get is to take part in the home games and experience shooting the cannons. Each Cadet has a chance to shoot the cannon for every touchdown the Bulldogs make. This 2024 season for Ferris State University has been extraordinary as they head into the playoffs.
CMU ROTC to shine on national stage at Folds of Honor golf event
September 5, 2024 | Author:
Jason Fielder
The Central Michigan ROTC Cannon Club will take their famous Pack 75 Howitzer cannon, “Genny’s Own,” on the road with a firing that will occur during the 3rd Annual Folds of Honor Collegiate golf tournament in Grand Haven, MI.
The 4-day event, which runs from Sept. 8-11 at the American Dunes Golf Club, features 15 men’s and 15 women’s collegiate teams participating in a 54-hole tournament. Participants include all the service academies, an HBCU (Historically Black College and University) team and one non-Division 1 school, among other Division 1 universities.
While CMU’s golf programs will not take part in the event this year, the men’s and women’s teams participated in the inaugural tournament in 2022 and are scheduled to play in the event in 2025. The event will be nationally televised by the Golf Channel.
“This is a great opportunity for CMU to get national exposure for our ROTC program and for our men’s and women’s golf programs,” said Mike Tierney, CMU Advancement Board member, President and CEO of Community Bankers of Michigan, and one of the catalysts for getting CMU back into the Folds of Honor Collegiate golf tournament.
“I am proud to support Folds of Honor. CMU has a prominent heritage with military education and we have more flag officers than any other university outside of the military academies, which is something we can all be proud of!”
"We are honored to be part of this elite event paying tribute to some of this nation’s most distinguished heroes," said Amy Folan, Zyzelewski Family Vice President and Director of Athletics.
"CMU has more than 170 alumni who are flag/general officers, which is a testament to our leadership history and aligns our institutional values with this prestigious event."
The Collegiate golf tournament raises funds for the Folds of Honor Foundation. Since 2007, the foundation has provided over 52,000 scholarships to the spouses and children of America’s fallen or disabled military and families of American first responders.
"It’s an honor for the CMU ROTC Program and the Chippewa Battalion to be invited to support the Folds of Honor event,” said Lieutenant Colonel Ryan Greening, CMU ROTC Chair, Department of Military Science & Leadership.
“Numerous Army officers from our program return to Michigan to continue serving their communities. We are extremely proud to have the opportunity to support such an amazing event and organization that continues to support Michigan military families."
Flag Officer Leadership Symposium
On September 20, 2024, FSU and CMU students came together to attend this year's Flag Officer Leadership Symposium. Thank you (from left to right) Brigadier General Rolf Mammen, Major General (ret.) Richard Mustion, Lieutenant General Brian S. Eifler, and Major General (ret.) Darren L. Werner for coming out and talking to us. I would also like to thank Valde Garcia, Jill Spangler and Chuck Cogger for coming out and being apart of this event.
We learned a lot from you and your experiences, and we hope you enjoyed your time there with us as well.
POW/MIA day of recognition
The third Friday of every September, is the POW/MIA day of recognition. This year it took place on the 20th of September.
Thank you to those CMU and FSU Cadets who took the time to participate in and honor the POW/MIA Day of Recognition through a Flag Raising ceremony. “You are not forgotten”
Bold Warrior Challenge
By Jordan Hoeksema
Bold Warrior Challenge is an annual event held by 7th Brigade at Fort Knox, Kentucky. The competition this year took place from November 1st to 3rd and saw teams from all 38 Senior ROTC programs in the Brigade.
The competition affords an opportunity for Cadets to put their leadership, physical strength, and mental acuity to the test. The team representing CMU was assembled of 11 Cadets total; 7 from FSU, and 4 from CMU, from all MS levels. The first night of competition consisted of 38 mission sites spread over the garrison area, with 3 hours to complete as many events as possible.
Cadets negotiated obstacles, pushed their physical stamina to the limit, and engaged in tests of military skills and general intelligence. After pushing hard on the first night, the team kept the motivation flowing for the next day of competition. From first light, to well after nightfall, the team rucked many miles, moving from mission site to mission site, giving each maximum effort.
Special recognition is deserved for CDT Quasarano, and CDT Phillip Brown, who were both late adds to the team, but proved to be valuable members, nonetheless. Ultimately, the team took 24th place, a vast improvement over last the teams performance last year. All who participated should be proud of the effort they gave and will undoubtedly carry lessons learned during BWC into their careers.
CMU Maroon Award
By Brandon Ide
On Thursday, October 24th, it was our privilege to see Major Nicholas Andrychowski take the stage amongst other faculty award recipients. All in their respective fields, these stars of Central Michigan University have provided leadership and excellence, and true inspiration to students and staff alike here at CMU. And among all these collegiates, there was no one there with a larger crowd to support them than Maj A. That in itself is a testament to the military family. When one achieves, we all achieve.
Seeing one of your fellows take the stage and be recognized is parallel to being there yourself, because when it comes down to it - we are all on the ground together when the time comes. And that was why Major Andrychowski won the Maroon Award. He not only tells Cadets how to do things, but he goes through it all himself—working alongside Cadets and letting them know every step of the way that he is there with them. Nicholas Andrychowski is not a man who has taken his licks and is giving lectures but reliving the perspective of a developing Cadet every time he leads the classroom and in training.
While it was no surprise to anyone who knows him, seeing him win such an award, it was very rewarding to see the recognition from the school. Hopefully, this will not be the only time that the CMU ROTC will see their cadre take the stage to be acknowledged for their leadership. This should be a tradition that the Central Michigan University Chippewa Battery upholds in making future leaders.
CMU/FSU/WMU ROTC Ball Run
On November 18, our Cadets participated in the annual Ball Run. This is an honored tradition where before the game between Western Michigan University and Central Michigan University, the football is carried from the visiting school to the host school stadium by ROTC Cadets.
This year, the run began at 8pm on the 18th of November, with WMU starting the first half of the run. CMU then met up with WMU and picked up the ball for their portion early the following morning on the 19th.
CMU’s football players also went on to win and return the Victory Canon to Mt Pleasant, MI. that night!
Thank you to all the Cadets who participated, including Chippewa Battalion’s FSU students!
Turkey Bowl
On November 26, 2024, CMU and FSU had their annual ROTC Turkey Bowl! Thank you Ferris State University for letting us use the Top Taggert Football Field. Along with that, bravo to the CMU team "C-Punishers", led by MAJ Andrychowski and team Captain CDT Draft.
This has been their 3rd title in 4 years. Happy Thanksgiving!
Branch Night
By Alexis Rivera
Branch Night complete! Congrats to all the seniors on receiving their branches. You will make exceptional officers. Listed are the compiled results of everyones received branches.
MIARNG
Saagman - Ordnance Brown - Transportation
Bullard - Field Artillery Rivera - Medical Services
USAR
Curtis - Transportation Padilla - Engineer
ACTIVE
Miller - Nursing Corps Buys - Infantry
Ide - Quartermaster MacDonald - Field Artillery
Draft - Aviation
Kirsch - Engineer
Phinney - Quartermaster
Thank you to everyone who put in the work to make this night special!
Spring '25 Cadet Chain of Command
COMICS
Title of Comic Here
C/MAJ MacDonaldXO/A S4 (FSU)
C/CSM Draft CSM (CMU)
C/MAJ MacBullard S3 (FSU)
C/CPT Phinney - S4/ PAO Special Project Fundraising (CMU)
C/CPT Seelye S2/ S5 (FSU)
C/CPT Saagman S1/ Assistant S3 (FSU)
C/CPT Ide AS 1/ AS 3 (CMU)
Thank you Colonel Ted Hummel – CMU ROTC Alumni Board
By Wayne Linderman
Colonel (Retired) Hummel has just resigned from the board after many years of camaraderie, and donation of his time and resources. We greatly appreciated his efforts.
Colonel Hummel was commissioned in 1958 from CMU ROTC. It was in the Cold War era that he led Soldiers and built his career. A great majority of his time was spent in Europe with primary assignments with NATO, 1ID, 101st ABN, 1st CAV and the Pentagon. At one time, he was fluent in both German and Turkish.
From Europe to Vietnam and Alaska, Colonel Hummel’s favorite assignments were always those where he was entrusted to lead American Soldiers.
Colonel Hummel continued to serve CMU Army ROTC as an Alumni Board Member since 2009. Elected to the Hall of Fame in in the Spring of 2009, his calm and insightful demeanor has provided our Battalion with exemplary leadership as well as valuable support to the Cadets and Cadre.
Thank you Colonel Hummel for your many years of service!
Denise Gallagher Celebration of Life
By Arnaldo Huertas in collaboration with Funeral Home Obituary
Beverly “Denise” Gallagher, 84, of Mt. Pleasant, passed away Thursday, July 4, 2024, at Green Acres in Mt. Pleasant. Denise was born May 2, 1940, in Wheeling, WV, the daughter of Thomas Joseph Gallagher and Ota Lee (Burge) Gallagher. She earned a bachelor’s degree from West Liberty State College. Denise moved to Michigan with her husband, Joe DeBolt, Sr., and her two children in 1967. She worked in an elementary school, as an aide/driver from MMI, and as a driver for Dial-A-Ride before starting her 28-year career working as a secretary for the Central Michigan University Military Science Department ROTC. Denise was an active member of the First United Methodist Church and a volunteer for the Isabella County Restoration House.
She enjoyed reading and bike-riding. Denise collected model sailing ships, model trains, Russian memorabilia, and sculptures and figurines made from the coal of West Virginia coal mines. She was a world-traveler, taking trips to England, the Netherlands, and three trips to Russia.
Denise is survived by her children, Joseph (Racine) DeBolt, Jr., of Randallstown, MD, and Michelle (David) Turpin of Shepherd; grandchildren, Connor Turpin of Austin, TX and Cassandra Nowlin of Parkville, MD; great-grandchild, Roman; sister, Jewell Roman, of Wheeling, WV, and many nieces and nephews. Most of them heard Mr. Huertas read the alumni update from our last newsletter as a tribute to her many years of service to our program.
Colonel Hummel, on the right, poses with General Collin Powell (center), and company.
Alumni
Board of ROTC Alumni
Wayne Linderman, President- ‘89. Exited Active Duty in 1996 as a Captain. Promoted to Major in USAR. Owner /President of Pioneer Systems Group in Holland, Michigan.
Hon. Fred M. Mester- ‘59. Retired as Chief Judge for the Sixth Judicial Circuit Court in MI.Inducted into the ROTC Hall of Fame in 2001.
BG (Ret) John G. Kulhavi - ’65. Retired from Merrill Lynch & Co. Inducted as a Charter Member into the Hall of Fame in 1997.
Terence F. Moore - ‘65. Terry served as president of ROTC AA from 2009-2011. Terry is President Emeritus of Mid-Michigan Health. Inducted as a Charter Member of the ROTC Hall of Fame in 1997.
Donald P. Case, Vice President - ‘60. Don served as the President of the ROTC AA from 2002 to 2005. Inducted into the ROTC Hall of Fame in 2006.
John Fisher - ‘70. John served as president of ROTC AA 2005-09. Retired Associate Vice President for Residences and Auxiliary Services at CMU in September 2015.
LTC (Ret) Steven J. Sparling - ‘92. Retired from the Army in 2015. Director of Institutional Research at West Shore Community College.
COL (Ret) Chuck Donnell - ‘87 Distinguished Military Graduate. Retired from Active Duty on December 30, 2012.
Patrick Kerbuski - '88. Senior Army Instructor at Innovation Central High School, Grand Rapids Public Schools since 2016.
Robert A. Ware - '83. JROTC Instructor at Grand Rapids Public Schools since 2005.
Dr. Kenneth G. Fauth - ‘66. Board Certified business security management (CPP) professional. Joined the Board on October 19, 2023.
LTC Ryan J. Greening - PMS/Chair of MSL Department and Ex Officio member of the ROTC Alumni Association Board.
If any alumni has an article or picture that he/ she would like to share in this newsletter please contact the office, Ms. Olson (989-774-3049), or Mr Huertas or send it to cmu-rotc@cmich.edu
Donations positively impact the ROTC Battalion and the Cadet activities. We greatly appreciate any donation to the program, as it helps offset the cost of Cadet participation.
Please consider contributing to one of the following areas. Your gift will impact all areas of Cadet morale, recruiting, retention, and team building.
• ROTC Development Fund
• BG John Kulhavi Scholarship
• COL William B. Nolde Scholarship
• Michigan 22 and Beyond Fund
• William R. Talcott Award
• COL R. John Cully ROTC Fund
These accounts actively support future officers in the United States Army. The ROTC Cadet commitment is very-time-consuming, making it difficult to work many hours at a job. Therefore, your donations help supplement their income to focus on academics and ROTC. You may contribute to one of the existing accounts at any time, or you can create your own charitable endowment fund.
Your gift may qualify you for a federal charitable tax deduction as a gift to Central Michigan University. This qualifies as a charitable contribution to higher education for which the federal government permits a deduction for individuals who itemize on tax returns.
Legacy gifts can be made now or deferred to a later time. Some types of planned gifts enable you to support CMU and receive tax benefits upfront while allowing you to sustain your current lifestyle by making use of bequests through a will, retirement plan assets, and charitable trusts.
Donations can also be given online at the link below: https://giving.apps.cmich.edu/donate/main
We frequently update our webpages for the CMU ROTC and our Alumni.
For the CMU Alumni website: https://www.cmich.edu/offices-departments/alumni-relati ons
LTC Ryan Greening Professor Military Science green7rj@cmich.edu
Arnaldo Huertas SMSI Contractor huert3a@cmich.edu
Cadre & Staff
MAJ Nicholas J. Andrychowski Asst. Professor of Military Science andry1n@cmich.edu
Randy Wright Recruiting Operations O���cer wrigh2r@cmich.edu
SSG Dustin Houghton National Guard Bryan Boykin Supply Technician boyki1b@cmich.edu
dustin.j.houghton.mil@army.mil
Antoinette T. Tucker Human Resource Assistant tucke1at@cmich.edu
SFC Jason Hickman Ferris State University jasonhickman@ferris.edu
Lorie Olson Executive Secretary olson2l@cmich.edu
dennisn3@ferris.edu
MSG Charles R. Lee Senior NCO lee3cr@cmich.edu
CPT Jacob McConnell Ferris State University jacobmcconnell@ferris.edu
MSG Joseph A. Capen Military Science Instructor capen1j@cmich.edu
Ferris State University hartmm14@ferris.edu
Many of the events highlighted in this newsletter were made possible through the support of our alumni and friends of ROTC. We are extremely grateful for all that you do for Central Michigan University's Chippewa Battalion. Fire Up Chips!
Mickelli Hartman
Nicholas Dennison Ferris State University
MSG Lee presents the Order of Saint Michael award to MSG Capen. Congratulations on your award, your promotion and best wishes of success on your future endeavors!