May 2021 NROTC/SSMP Commissioning

FRIDAY, MAY 14, 2021

Navy ROTC Mission

The Navy ROTC Program was established to develop midshipmen mentally, morally and physically, and to imbue them with the highest ideals of duty and loyalty, and with the core values of honor, courage and commitment in order to commission college graduates as Naval Officers who possess a basic professional background, are motivated toward careers in the naval service, and have a potential for future development in mind and character so as to assume the highest responsibilities of Command, Citizenship and Government.

LT Shawn Roades, USN Officer in Charge

LT Rene Perez, USN Assistant Officer in Charge

MMC Julius Bolds, USN Senior Enlisted Advisor

Order of Ceremony MASTER OF CEREMONIES WELCOME OFFICIAL PARTY ENTRANCE NATIONAL ANTHEM INVOCATION SUPERINTENDENT’S WELCOME RADM Michael E. Fossum ‘80, USMS Superintendent, Texas A&M Maritime Academy GUEST SPEAKER George King, USN Lecturer, Department of Maritime Transportation OATH OF OFFICE LT Rene Perez, USN Assistant Officer in Charge, Texas A&M Maritime Academy NROTC/SSMP ENSIGN TRANSITIONS ENSIGNS’ FIRST SALUTES BENEDICTION MASTER OF CEREMONIES REMARKS OFFICIAL PARTY DEPARTS

Superintendent ’s Welcome RADM Michael E. Fossum ‘80, USMS Superintendent, Texas A&M Maritime Academy Vice President, Texas A&M University Chief Operating Officer, Texas A&M University at Galveston

RADM Michael E. Fossum ‘80 currently serves as a Vice President of Texas A&M University, Superintendent of the Texas A&M Maritime Academy and Chief Operating Officer of Texas A&M University at Galveston. Fossum joined Texas A&M following his retirement from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) - Johnson Space Center in 2017.

Fossum is a veteran of three space flights with more than 194 days in space and more than 48 hours in seven spacewalks during his 19 years as an astronaut. During his last mission in 2011, Fossum served as Commander of the International Space Station. He has logged over 2,000 hours in 35 different aircraft throughout the course of his career.

Fossum earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Texas A&M University and was commissioned as an officer in the U.S. Air Force in 1980. He is also a graduate of the U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School and has earned Master of Science degrees in Systems Engineering and Physical Science/Space Science.

Fossum was born in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and grew up in McAllen, Texas. He is married to his Aggie sweetheart, the former Melanie J. London ‘80. They have four children and six grandchildren.

He enjoys family and outdoor activities. Fossum has been a lifelong supporter and volunteer in the Scouting program.

Guest Speaker George King, USN

Lecturer, Dept. of Marine Transportation George R. King graduated from Portales High School, Portales, New Mexico in 1967. After graduation he joined the Unites States Navy Seabees where he obtained the rank of a 2nd Class Petty Officer. He was stationed in I-Corp in the Republic of South Viet Nam. During his 2 tours he worked with Mobile Construction Battalion 3. (MCB)-3 provided many aspects of combat construction support and supply for the Fifth Marine Division.

He graduated from Texas A&M University, College Station in 1975 with a degree in Industrial Technology. He has worked for Mitchell Energy and Development, Stone and Webster Engineering, Houston Light and Power, Houston Advanced Research Center, Texas A&M University, TransOcean, National Oilwell Varco and the Layne Drilling Division of Granite Construction.

George has worked in the energy sector for 47 years, starting in oil and gas exploration and production which included on-shore and off-shore assignments. During his career, he was promoted from entry levels to the upper management of multiple levels of engineering support. These management assignments and achievements included: • Nuclear, Coal and Natural Gas fired steam generating plants • Hydrogen fuel cells, geothermal, thermal solar, photovoltaic, wind and bio-gas recovery systems • Management Services for the design, development, and construction of an inland desalination project, which will deliver fresh water to a new, manufacturing center, located west of Albuquerque, New Mexico.

• Developed and implemented drilling programs, managed the conversion of geologic, lithology and related rheology requirements into formal drilling plans.

• Developed measurement guidelines to define efficiency in rig utilization and drilling operations.

• Developed and implemented Well Control Blowout Prevention programs for both on-shore and off-shore drilling operations.

• Developed competency measurement programs for the drilling industry through the International Association of Drilling Contractors IADC According to George, the pinnacle of his engineering and management career occurred when he was awarded a Lifetime Appointment as a Technical Fellow for the advancement of engineering disciplines, ethics and the application of engineering risk management for Granite Construction. Granite is the third largest construction company in North America.

His current goal is to obtain the ranking of Professor of the Practice in the Marine Engineering Technology Department, Texas A&M University Galveston.

Silver Dollar Salute

The first salute is a long-standing 19th century tradition that requires newly commissioned officers to give a silver dollar to the recipient of their first salute. Navy tradition states that you have to buy your first salute and then earn every salute thereafter through your performance by gaining the respect of your subordinates. Today naval officers paying for their first salute is considered a way to show respect for those superior enlisted personnel who helped the officer achieve their commission.

Oath Of Office “I

,

DO SOLEMNLY SWEAR (OR AFFIRM) THAT I WILL SUPPORT AND DEFEND THE CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES AGAINST ALL ENEMIES FOREIGN AND DOMESTIC; THAT I WILL BEAR TRUE FAITH AND ALLEGIANCE TO THE SAME; THAT I WILL TAKE THIS OBLIGATION FREELY, WITHOUT ANY MENTAL RESERVATIONS OR PURPOSE OF EVASION; AND THAT I WILL WELL AND FAITHFULLY DISHARGE THE DUTIES OF THE OFFICE ON WHICH I AM ABOUT TO ENTER, SO HELP ME GOD.

Ensign Jacob Allen United States Navy

Ensign Jacob Allen is a native of Long Island, New York, and a graduate of International Leadership of Texas High School.

He enrolled in Texas A&M University at Galveston in August of 2017 and will graduate with a Bachelor’s of Science in Marine Engineering.

Throughout his time in the program, he has participated in Student Government as a Justice, Company Senior Chief in the Maritime Academy Corps of Cadets, and as a Department Head and Training Officer in the NROTC unit.

While not defending freedom and democracy around the world, Ensign Allen enjoys model aviation and boats, 3D modeling and Computer Aided Design. Ensign Allen is slated to serve as Submarine Officer and will report to Navy Nuclear Power School in Charleston, South Carolina after Commissioning.

Ensign Lauren Bezecny United States Navy Reserve

Ensign Lauren Bezecny is a native of Clear Lake, Texas and a graduate of Clear Lake High School.

She enrolled in Texas A&M University at Galveston in August of 2017 and will graduate with a Bachelor’s of Science in Marine Transportation and minor in Maritime Administration.

Throughout her time in the program, she has participated in the Texas Maritime Academy NROTC unit holding positions as Executive Officer, Command Master Chief and Division Officer.

In the Texas Maritime Academy Corps of Cadets she had held positions as squad leader and Delta 1 Commanding Officer. She has also participated in organizations including Women on the Water, Council of American Master Mariners and Future Military Leaders of America.

While not defending freedom and democracy around the world, Ensign Bezecny enjoys fishing in the Gulf of Mexico and painting or drawing. Ensign Bezecny is slated to serve as a Strategic Sealift Officer and will pursue a job in the commercial shipping industry following commissioning.

Ensign Range Chapman United States Navy Reserve

Ensign Range Chapman is a native of Gardnerville, Nevada and a graduate of Douglas High School.

He enrolled in Texas A&M University at Galveston in August of 2018 and will graduate with a Bachelor’s of Science in Marine Transportation.

Throughout his time in the program, he has participated in the Maritime Academy Corps of Cadets as Company Commander for Charlie 1 Company and being the Command Master Chief for the NROTC unit.

While not defending freedom and democracy around the world, Ensign Chapman enjoys skiing and running. Ensign Chapman is slated to serve as a Strategic Sealift Officer and will pursue a job in the commercial shipping industry following commissioning.

Ensign Nelson Chiaravallotti United States Navy

Ensign Nelson Chiaravallotti is a native of Silver Spring, MD and a graduate of John F. Kennedy High School.

He enrolled in Texas A&M University at Galveston in August of 2017 and will graduate with a Bachelor’s of Science in Ocean Engineering.

Throughout his time in the program, he has participated as a family group leader for Coastal Community Church, a DG leader for Texas A&M at Galveston SALT CAMP, the Texas A&M at Galveston Corps Commander, and the NROTC unit Commanding Officer.

While not defending freedom and democracy around the world, Ensign Chiaravallotti enjoys playing ice hockey, rooting for the Philadelphia Eagles, and spending time with his cadets. Ensign Chiaravallotti is slated to serve as a Submarine Officer and will report to Navy Nuclear Power School in Charleston, South Carolina after Commissioning.

Ensign Haden Cowdrey United States Navy

Ensign Haden Cowdrey is a native of Richmond, Texas and a graduate of Kerr High School.

He enrolled in Texas A&M University at Galveston in August of 2017 and will graduate with a Masters in Maritime Administration and Logistics.

Throughout his time in the program, he has participated in various roles of leadership including Battalion Commander from 2020 to 2021 in the Maritime Academy Corps of Cadets and as the Commanding Officer for NROTC for the Spring 2021 semester.

While not defending freedom and democracy around the world, Ensign Cowdrey enjoys flying, driving his sports car, shooting sports, and spending time with his brothers and sister. Ensign Cowdrey is slated to serve as a Naval Aviator and will report to Naval Air Station Pensacola following commissioning.

Ensign Annelise King United States Navy

Ensign Annelise King is a native of Jarrell, Texas and a graduate of Meridian World High School.

She enrolled in Texas A&M University at Galveston in August of 2017 and will graduate with a Bachelor’s of Science in Marine Transportation.

Throughout her time in the program, she has participated in the Maritime Academy Corps of Cadets drill team, honor guard, and women on the water club.

While not defending freedom and democracy around the world, Ensign Richards enjoys reading, drawing and exploring. Ensign King is slated to serve as a Surface Warfare Officer on the USS Higgins (DDG-76) stationed in Yokosuka, Japan.

Ensign Jon Matjani

United States Navy Reserve Ensign Jon Matjani is a native of Spring, TX and a graduate of Klein High School.

He enrolled in Texas A&M University at Galveston in August of 2017 and will graduate with a Bachelor’s of Science in Marine Engineering.

Throughout his time in the program, he has participated in mentoring his high school robotics team and the Texas Maritime Academy Corps of Cadets.

While not defending freedom and democracy around the world, Ensign Matjani enjoys wrestling, lifting, and reading. Ensign Matjani is slated to serve as a Strategic Sealift Officer and will pursue a job in the commercial shipping industry following commissioning.

Ensign Ryan Meriwether United States Navy Reserve

Ensign Ryan Meriwether is a native of Fort Worth, Texas and a graduate of North Crowley High School.

He enrolled in Texas A&M University at Galveston in August of 2017 and will graduate with a Bachelor’s of Science in Marine Transportation.

Throughout his time in the program, he has participated in Texas A&M at Galveston SALT CAMP, Texas Maritime Academy Corps of Cadets, NROTC unit, and as a Junior and Senior Yell Leader Texas A&M University at Galveston.

While not defending freedom and democracy around the world, Ensign Meriwether enjoys camping, woodworking, and spending time on the beach. Ensign Meriwether is slated to serve as a Strategic Sealift Officer and will pursue a job in the commercial shipping industry following commissioning.

Ensign Kevin Westerfeld United States Navy Reserve

Ensign Kevin Westerfeld is a native of Friendswood, Texas and a graduate of Friendswood High School.

He enrolled in Texas A&M University at Galveston in August of 2017 and will graduate with a Bachelor’s of Science in Marine Transportation and a minor in Maritime Administration.

Throughout his time in the program, he has participated in Texas A&M University at Galveston intramural sports, honors program, and has held various positions at Texas Maritime Academy Corps of Cadets and NROTC unit.

While not defending freedom and democracy around the world, Ensign Westerfeld enjoys fishing, playing basketball, tennis, hunting, outdoor activities, and spending time with his family.

Ensign Westerfeld is slated to serve as a Strategic Sealift Officer and will pursue a job in the commercial shipping industry following commissioning.

Ensign Austin Wygle United States Navy

Ensign Austin Wygle is a native of New Braunfels, Texas and a graduate of Noble High School.

He enrolled in Texas A&M University at Galveston in August of 2017 and will graduate with a Bachelor’s of Science in Marine Engineering and Technologies.

Throughout his time in the program, he has participated in Texas Two Step club, held positions as the Executive Officer for Echo Company in the Maritime Academy Corps of Cadets, as well as Division Officer/Physical Training Officer/Department head for the NROTC Unit.

While not defending freedom and democracy around the world, Ensign Wygle enjoys Hunting, Fishing, and skiing. Ensign Wygle is slated to serve as Submarine Officer and will report to Navy Nuclear Power School in Charleston, South Carolina after Commissioning.

The Sailor’s Creed I AM A UNITED STATES SAILOR. I WILL SUPPORT AND DEFEND THE CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND I WILL OBEY THE ORDERS OF THOSE APPOINTED OVER ME. I REPRESENT THE FIGHTING SPIRIT OF THE NAVY AND THOSE WHO HAVE GONE BEFORE ME TO DEFEND FREEDOM AND DEMOCRACY AROUND THE WORLD. I PROUDLY SERVE MY COUNTRY’S NAVY COMBAT TEAM WITH HONOR, COURAGE AND COMMITMENT. I AM COMMITTED TO EXCELLENCE AND THE FAIR TREATMENT OF ALL.

The Navy Ethos We are the United States Navy, our Nation’s sea power -ready guardians of peace, victorious in war.

We are professional Sailors and Civilians - a diverse and agile force, exemplifying the highest standards of service to our Nation, at home and abroad, at sea and ashore.

Integrity is the foundation of our conduct, respect for others is fundamental to our character; decisive leadership is crucial to our success.

We are a team, disciplined and well-prepared, committed to mission accomplishment. We do not waver in our dedication and accountability to our shipmates and families.

We are patriots, forged by the Navy’s core values of Honor, Courage and Commitment. In times of war and peace, our actions reflect our proud heritage and tradition.

We defend our Nation and prevail in the face of adversity with strength, determination, and dignity.

We are the United States Navy.

T H E N AV Y H Y M N

Eternal Father, Strong to Save Eternal Father, strong to save, Whose arm hath bound the restless wave, Who bidd’st the mighty ocean deep Its own appointed limits keep, O hear us when we cry to thee For those in peril on the sea!

O Christ! Whose voice the waters heard And hushed their raging at thy word, Who walkedst on the foaming deep, And calm amidst its rage didst sleep, O hear us when we cry to thee, For those in peril on the sea!

Most Holy Spirit! Who didst brood Upon the chaos dark and rude, And bid its angry tumult cease, And give, for wild confusion, peace, O hear us when we cry to thee For those in peril on the sea!

Eternal Father, grant, we pray, To all Marines, both night and day, The courage, honor, strength, and skill Their land to serve, thy law fulfill; Be thou the shield forevermore From every peril to the Corps.

Lord, guard and guide the ones who fly Through the great spaces in the sky.

Be with them always in the air, In darkening storms or sunlight fair.

Anchors Away Stand Navy out to sea, Fight our battle cry; We’ll never change our course, So vicious foe steer shy-y-y-y.

Roll out the TNT, Anchors Aweigh.

Sail on to victory And sink their bones to Davy Jones, hooray!

Anchors Aweigh, my boys, Anchors Aweigh.

Farewell to foreign shores, We sail at break of day-ay-ay-ay. rough our last night ashore, Drink to the foam, Until we meet once more.

Here’s wishing you a happy voyage home.

Blue of the mighty deep: Gold of God’s great sun.

Let these our colors be Till all of time be done, done, done, done.

On seven seas we learn Navy’s stern call: Faith, courage, service true, With honor, over honor, over all.

Fair Winds and Following Seas to our new Ensign