Navy ROTC Mainstay 2014

The Mainstay

THE UNIVERSITY OF IDAHO AND WASHINGTON STATE UNIVERSITY NROTC UNIT

Contents

CO Call …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..04 Staff……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….06 Captain Gregory T. Eaton USN, Commanding Officer...………………………………………………...06 Commander Alex R. Greig, Executive Officer …………………………………….……………………......07 Unit Staff……..…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………08 Lieutenant Steven Stead…………………………………….………………………………………………………..08 Lieutenant Lucas Hugie…………………………….………………………………………………………………….08 Lieutenant Jonathan Schemel ……………………….………….…………………………………………………09 Lieutenant Nathan Greenwood…………………………………………………………………………………….09 Major Topher Koreis…………………………………….………………………………………………………………09 Gunnery Sergeant Orlando Castillo ……………………….…………………………………………………….10 Civilian Staff……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………11 Fall BNCO’S Call…..………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….12 Spring BNCO’S Call…..…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….13 Summer Cruises …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….14 Officer Candidate School ………….………………………………….………………………………………………14 Surface Nuclear Cruise……………………………………………….………………………………………………..15 Aviation Cruise………………………………………………………..……………………………………………………16 Submarine Cruise..………………………………………..……..……………………………………………………..17 Mountain Warfare Training Center………………………………………………………………………………17 CORTRAMID……………………………………………………….………………………………………………………..18 Orientation Week ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….19 POW / MIA Ceremony ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………20 Bayview ARD Trip…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..21 Wayne F. Manis Visit………………………………………………………………………………………………………………21 Navy and Marine Corps Birthday Ball……………………………………………………………………………………..22 NROTC vs AROTC Football Game…..……………………………………………………………………………………….24 Semper FO Club……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..25 Semper FI Club….……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………26 Northwest Navy ………………………….…………………………………………………………………………….…………..27 Overview….…………………….……………………………………………………………………………………………27 Rifle/Pistol……….……………….………………………………………………………………………………………….28 Basketball………………………….…………………………………………………………………………………………29 Soccer……………………………………..……………………………………………………………………………………20 Volleyball……………………..………………………………………………………………………………………………31 Physical Readiness Test…………………………..……………………………….…………………………………..32 Regulation Drill……………………………………………………………..………………………………………..……33

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Contents Cont.

Swimming……………………………………………………………..………………………………………..…………..34 Academics……………………………………………………………..………………………………………..…………..35 5k……………………………………………………………..………………………………………..……………………….36 Color Guard……………………………………………………………..………………………………………..………..37 Combat Fitness Test……………………………………………………………..……………………………..………38 Battalion Members…………………………………………………………………………………………..……………………39 Sailors and Navy Option Midshipmen………….…….…………………………………………………………39 Marines and Marine Option Midshipmen…………………………………………………………………….40 Commissioning………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………41 Fall Commissioning………………………………………………………………………………………………………42 Spring Commissioning………………….………………….…………………………………………………………..43 University of Idaho / Washington State University Newly Commissioned Officers………………….44

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CO’s Call

Families, Friends, Alumni and Supporters of the UI/WSU NROTC Unit,

Wow! Here we are again, closing the books on yet another amazing year – no pun intended, but it is that time again, to reflect on the achievements, the successes and lessons, and the culmination of the year and our mission ‐ sending another exceptional group of Officers to the Fleet. It doesn’t seem that long CAPT Eaton at 2013 POW/MIA Ceremony ago when I was writing my first “CO’s Call” here at the Unit and it has already come time for me to turn over the reigns ‐ this year will be my last! I couldn’t be prouder to have finished my career helping contribute to the development and training of the future leadership of our Navy and Marine Corps. These young men and women continue to amaze me daily with their motivation, energy and incredible work ethic. I have absolute confidence in the direction the Unit is heading, the Active Duty Staff leading the way, and the Battalion leadership and members, as well as the skills of the more than 60 Ensigns and Second Lieutenants commissioned on my “watch” who are out serving the Naval Services and a great nation.

To start this academic year we welcomed a fantastic Freshman class. Our returning students helped bring them aboard and they quickly integrated into the Battalion routine. We had a little smaller Freshman class but the talent is amazing and our retention of upper classmen remains very high. The performance across the entire Battalion continues to increase, establishing new hallmarks and, as has become the “norm” with this Unit, continuing to meet and exceed the high standards of our predecessors.

Just a few of the many highlights from this past year – we promoted one of our MECEPs to Gunnery Sergeant and our MOI to Major; we have already had two of our College Program students pick up NROTC scholarships – MIDN Tootill and MIDN Flack, with the main selection board still to come this summer! During our Spring Awards ceremony our outstanding students picked up a number of competitive scholarships including the AFCEA VADM Jon Boyes Scholarship (MIDN Turner), the Washington Society of the Sons of the Revolution ADM Emory Scholarship Award (MIDN Lambert), and numerous achievement and performance‐based awards.

As noted above, my time at the Unit is coming to a close. As with all good deals, this one must also come to an end.

Prior to my relief this summer, we are losing two superb officers – our Nuclear Power Officer, LT Steve Stead, and our Marine Officer Instructor, Major Topher Koreis. I wish nothing but the best to our two departing Officers and their families.

Fair Winds & Following Seas to: Major Topher Koreis, USMC – Returning to the Fleet Marine Force in June and returning to that most blessed of places…rotary wing aviation! Keep your turns up and Fly Safe!

Lieutenant Steve Stead – Having served honorably and proudly he is returning to civilian life and settling in Washington.

He was an excellent instructor and Staff Officer and an outstanding example for our Battalion.

Both Officers have contributed immeasurably to the development, training, and preparation of more than one hundred future leaders, as well as positively impacting our Program for years to come.

Bringing fresh perspectives and energy to the Staff will be the following personnel: Captain Mike McClintock, Commanding Officer – 1989 graduate of Cal State Sacramento and Naval Flight Officer training, he has had a very successful career in Maritime Patrol most recently serving as Commodore, CTF‐67 in the Mediterranean/Europe and Africa. CAPT McClintock will arrive at the end of June.

Lieutenant Nathan Greenwood, Nuclear Power Officer – 2009 Naval Academy graduate, Nuke Power School, and service aboard USS TENNESSEE (SSBN 734) prior to arriving at the Unit. He has been onboard since mid‐Spring and is already an integral part of the Staff with a full plate of future Nukes to prep.

Captain Anthony Roubal, USMC, Marine Officer Instructor – 2009 graduate of my alma mater ‐ the University of Nebraska (GO BIG RED!), a PLC graduate and coming off a recent deployment to Afghanistan; he is scheduled to arrive in early July.

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This has been another fantastic year for our Unit and the Battalion. We have commissioned 12 new officers during the Winter and Spring terms. These 12 new Second Lieutenants and Ensigns are again headed to nearly every unrestricted community in the Force – 3 to Quantico and The Basic School, 3 to Pensacola for Pilot or Flight Officer training, 1 to Nuclear Power School and on to the Silent Service, 2 direct to ships and the Surface Warfare community, and 3 to the Navy Nurse Corps. Each of them has done exceptionally well here and their leadership will be missed. But our mission continues and, just as it is done in the Fleet, they have prepared the Juniors and the rest of the Battalion well to continue the legacy.

There is always plenty to brag about with this Battalion, and I do so at every opportunity! Throughout my time here, I have been consistently impressed with the dedication, work ethic and motivation that the students bring to our Program. They truly are an exceptional group! Just a few examples of their impressive performance this year includes: ‐ Academics remain a top priority! At the completion of two Orientation Weeks, we welcomed and successfully integrated 20 new Freshmen into the Battalion. After surviving a warm and unusual set of back‐to‐back Orientation Weeks due to the two schools starting a week apart, the Freshmen went on to push our upperclassmen throughout the year and helped increase the Unit’s GPA to an impressive 3.30 average! Overall we had 22 students at or above a 3.5 term GPA this Spring – 40% of the Battalion! 5 of those 23 achieved perfect 4.0’s – amazing! The teamwork, peer‐to‐ peer support, and mentorship the students freely provide to each other day‐in and day‐out is inspiring. ‐ Professionalism in All that we do. From Orientation Week through the UI POW/MIA Remembrance Ceremony to our Winter and Spring Commissionings, this Battalion plans and executes at a very high standard – and it shows in every group event and personal interaction. It was a pleasure to show off these traits to a number of distinguished visitors this year. The Battalion hosted Lt Col Jim Givan, USMC (ret), 1959 alumni of UI and our Program, as our guest speaker at this year’s Navy/Marine Corps Ball. We also had a number of Navy Nuclear Power Program visitors including CAPT John Mosier, NROTC Nuclear Power Director from Officer Development, CDR Scott Luers CO of USS BOISE (SSN 764), his Chief of the Boat, STSCM Chris Conry, and a senior JO, LTJG Brett Campbell, visit the Unit providing insights and perspectives, as well as answering many questions from the Battalion. This Spring we were happy to welcome the Commanding Officer of USS MOMSEN (DDG‐92), CDR Elaine Collins, to discuss her career as a Surface Warfare Officer and be our guest of honor at Senior Mess Night. Regardless of the visitor or the event, this Battalion has demonstrated a true embodiment of professionalism and the Navy and Marine Corps Core Values.

To our many benefactors, alumni and friends that contribute so much to our Program – THANK YOU! The generosity of so many is tremendous, and this year in particular, made many of the events the Unit participated in possible. Our return to the Northwest Navy competition, the Navy and Marine Corps Ball, scholarships, and much more were feasible only due to the flexibility afforded by our NROTC Development Fund and endowments. Knowing budgets are tight all over, I am equally thankful for the many friends who sustained the Unit, our Midshipmen, OCs and MECEPs, and our mission through their direct support and encouragement to our future officers.

In closing, I want to pass along my personal THANKS to the parents of our future military leaders. You have made my final assignment an absolute pleasure. The solid foundation, sense of service, and drive to excel you instilled in your sons and daughters made our mission so much more achievable. I also wish to thank you for entrusting those same sons and daughters to me and my Staff for these past four years; that confidence and support makes leading and developing them into professional Naval Officers possible.

It has been an honor and a privilege to lead and work with the finest students, Staff and University professionals in the country.

Semper Fortis / Semper Fidelis, Skipper Eaton May 2014

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STAFF

Captain Gregory T. Eaton, Commanding Officer

Captain Eaton was born and raised in Bellevue, Nebraska. He graduated in 1987 from the University of Nebraska – Lincoln with a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Civil Engineering and was commissioned an Ensign through Navy ROTC. He reported to NAS Pensacola after commissioning and received his wings of gold at NAS Whiting Field in February 1989.

Captain Eaton reported to HS‐1 at NAS Jacksonville, Florida for training in the SH‐3H Sea King. In November 1989 he reported to his first fleet assignment with HS‐4, the BLACK KNIGHTS, at NAS North Island. While assigned to the BLACK KNIGHTS, Captain Eaton completed two Western Pacific deployments aboard USS CARL VINSON (CVN 70) and USS KITTY HAWK (CV‐63). He transitioned with the squadron to the SH‐60F/HH‐60H Sea Hawk in 1991.

In June 1993 he reported to HS‐10 at NAS North Island as a Fleet Replacement Instructor Pilot. He served as Replacement Pilot Schedules Officer, Aircraft Division Officer and Quality Assurance Officer before returning to sea duty.

Captain Eaton reported to Carrier Air Wing NINE in April 1996 onboard USS NIMITZ (CVN 68) while deployed to the Western Pacific. He served as the Helicopter Operations / Anti‐Submarine Warfare Officer with CVW‐9 staff. While attached to CVW‐9 he completed a WESTPAC and an Around‐the‐World deployment onboard USS NIMITZ (CVN 68).

Following his tour with CVW‐9 he reported to the attached helicopter squadron, the EIGHTBALLERS of HS‐8, in May 1998 for his Department Head tour. During his tour with the EIGHTBALLERS, Captain Eaton served as the Tactics Officer, Admin Officer and Maintenance Officer. While assigned to HS‐8 he completed his fourth deployment onboard USS JOHN C. STENNIS (CVN 74).

In November 2000 Captain Eaton transferred to the College of Naval Command and Staff in Newport, Rhode Island.

Graduating with a Masters Degree in National Security and Strategic Studies in November 2001 he reported to United States Space Command, Colorado Springs, Colorado via Joint Forces Staff College in Norfolk, Virginia. Assigned as a member of the Combat Operations Staff, Captain Eaton served as the ALPHA Crew Missile Operations Officer in the Cheyenne Mountain Command Center before returning to NAS North Island in February 2004 for refresher training with HS‐10.

He reported as the Executive Officer of the HS‐6 INDIANS in September 2004, completing his fifth deployment to the Western Pacific/Arabian Gulf onboard USS NIMITZ (CVN 68), and assumed Command of the finest helicopter squadron in the Navy in November 2005. His post‐command orders assigned him to United States Strategic Command's Joint Functional Component Command for Global Strike where he served in various billets and ultimately as the J33 Current Operations Division Chief.

Captain Eaton took command of the University of Idaho NROTC Unit in May 2010. His personal awards include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal (two awards), Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal, Navy Commendation Medal (four awards), and the Navy Achievement Medal (two awards). He has accumulated over 3700 total flight hours, with more than 3500 hours in naval rotary wing aircraft. He will retire this Fall with more than 27 years of service.

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Commander Alex Greig, Executive Officer

CDR Greig is originally from Ravenna, Ohio. He enlisted into the Navy in 1991 as a Seabee Utilitiesman (UT) and served in Naval Mobile Construction Battalion TWENTY (NMCB‐20) while attending The Ohio State University and participating in the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC). In 1996, he graduated with a B.A. in History and received his commission as a Surface Warfare Officer.

CDR Greig’s operational tours include Division Officer assignments onboard USS SIMPSON (FFG‐56) in Norfolk, Virginia and USS MOBILE BAY (CG‐53) in Yokosuka, Japan and San Diego, California. His Department Head assignments were as Weapons Officer and Combat Systems Officer onboard USS MONTEREY (CG‐61) in Norfolk. He later served as the Officer‐in‐ Charge of Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron THREE (MSRON‐3) Detachment Bahrain where he was responsible for the conduct of OPERATION VIGILANT MARINER embarked security team missions in the Arabian Gulf.

Ashore, CDR Greig studied at the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California where he earned a M.A. in National Security Affairs specializing in Far East Asia. While there, he also completed his Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) Phase I requirements through the Naval War College. As an Antiterrorism and Force Protection (ATFP) Specialty Career Path Officer, CDR Greig served as the Deputy Force Antiterrorism Officer for Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC).

Prior to his arrival in Idaho, CDR Greig served as a Planner on the staff of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) Joint Command in Kabul, Afghanistan. In this assignment, he focused on civil‐military affairs and the transition of Afghan provinces from ISAF to local control. CDR Greig reported onboard in April 2012.

CAPT Eaton, CDR Greig, and Mr. Manis

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Unit Staff Lieutenant Steven Stead

LT Stead was born in Oceanside, CA to Donald and Sherry Stead. When LT Stead was 10 years old he moved with his family to Homer, AK which he considers to be his hometown.

LT Stead attended Homer High School where he played basketball and football and enjoyed the numerous outdoor activities in the area. LT Stead received his B.S. in Nuclear Engineering from Oregon State University in 2007.

In January 2008, LT Stead reported to Officer Candidate School in Newport, RI where he was commissioned as an Ensign in the United States Navy. He immediately reported to Naval Nuclear Power Training Command in Charleston, SC to begin nuclear power school.

Following the completion of nuclear power school, LT Stead reported to Nuclear Power Training Unit and the Moored Training Ship 635. LT Stead completed his submarine training in Groton, CT at Submarine Officer Basic Course.

In June 2009, LT Stead reported to USS SAN FRANCISCO, SSN‐711, home ported in San Diego, CA for his Division Officer tour. While onboard USS SAN FRANCISCO, LT Stead served as the Assistant Weapons Officer, Main Propulsion Assistant, and Chemistry and Radiological Controls Assistant. During his tour on USS SAN FRANCISCO, the fire control and sonar systems were upgraded to an all‐digital system, the ship completed its first Western Pacific deployment in over five years where they earned a Meritorious Unit Commendation, and completed a six month dry docking period on time and under budget.

LT Stead reported to NROTC University of Idaho in May 2012 where he served as an Assistant Professor of Naval Science and the Nuclear Propulsion Officer.

Lieutenant Lucas Hugie

LT Lucas Hugie hails from Mt Sterling, Utah and graduated from the University of Utah with a B.S. degree in Anthropology in 2006. Shortly after graduating he commissioned through the Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) program and departed for NAS Pensacola to begin flight training.

After completing primary training at NAS Corpus Christi with VT‐28 and advanced helicopter training at NAS Whiting Field, he received his wings of gold on August 8th, 2008 from squadron HT‐8 in a winging class of 8. From there he reported to the MERLINS of HSC‐3 at NAS North Island where he learned to fly the MH‐60S before reporting to the BLACK JACKS of HSC‐21 in April, 2009.

While assigned to the BLACK JACKS, LT Hugie deployed to the 2515th Naval Air Ambulance Detachment (NAAD) based at Udari Army Airfield in Kuwait from March, 2010 to September, 2010 and again from May, 2011 to November, 2011. While attached the NAAD LT Hugie flew 28 medical evacuations (MEDEVACS) in support of OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM and OPERATION NEW DAWN. During his deployments he also served as a Division Officer and Tactical Operations Officer (TACOPS). As TACOPS he was responsible for establishing the suitability of hospital landing pads in Kuwait and working with Army units to establish joint flight procedures and MEDEVAC practices. LT Hugie also held the billets of Ground Safety Officer, Public Affairs Officer, and Assistant Operations Officer while assigned to HSC‐21.

LT Hugie reported to NROTC University of Idaho in August of 2012 where he is serving as an Assistant Professor of Naval Science and the Aviation Officer.

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Lieutenant Jonathan Schemel

LT Jonathan Schemel was born in Phoenix, Arizona. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from California State University Fullerton and earned his commission through Officer Candidate School.

LT Schemel’s first sea assignment was aboard USS OSCAR AUSTIN (DDG 79) where he served as the Auxiliaries Officer and Force Protection Officer from June 2008 – Dec 2010, earning two “Battle E” awards. He deployed with the HARRY S TRUMAN Strike Group in May 2010 and was the lead Boarding Officer for the Visit Board Search and Seizure Team. In January 2011, he reported to DESTROYER SQUADRON TWO ONE and served as the Training and Readiness Officer. During his tour, he completed a deployment with the JOHN C STENNIS Strike Group in the C5F and C7F Areas of Responsibility.

LT Schemel reported to the University of Idaho Navy Reserve Officer Training Corps in January of 2013. He is currently assigned as the Surface Warfare Instructor. His personal awards include the Navy Commendation Medal, Navy Achievement Medal (one gold star), along with various service and campaign awards.

Lieutenant Nathan Greenwood LT Nathan Greenwood was raised in Madisonville, TN and graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in May 2009 with a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering.

Upon commissioning, he reported to Naval Nuclear Power Training Command in Charleston, SC. Following nuclear power school he completed the Submarine Officer Basic Course at Groton, CT before reporting to Nuclear Power Training Unit Ballston Spa, NY for the final leg of the submarine training pipeline.

LT Greenwood reported to USS TENNESSEE SSBN‐734(G) in Norfolk, VA in March 2011. At the conclusion of what had been a near three year engineered refueling overhaul, the ship shifted homeport back to Kings Bay, GA. Following sea trials and execution of Demonstration and Shakedown Operation 23, USS TENNESSEE rejoined the fleet as a strategic asset. LT Greenwood completed four strategic deterrent patrols during his tour while serving as the Reactor Control Assistant, Communications Officer, and Assistant Operations Officer.

LT Greenwood reported to NROTC University of Idaho in February 2014 where he is serving as an Assistant Professor of Naval Science and the Nuclear Propulsion Officer.

Major Topher Koreis

Major Koreis graduated from California Polytechnic University, Pomona in June 2003 having earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Food Marketing and Agricultural Business Management. He was commissioned in the Marine Corps in 2003 after completing the Officer Candidate Course at Quantico, Virginia.

After completing Naval Flight Training in May of 2006 he reported to HMM(T)‐164, MCAS Camp Pendleton, California and following initial CH‐46E helicopter training, was assigned to the “Flying Tigers” of HMM‐262 in Okinawa, Japan. Major Koreis served with HMM‐262 from Nov 2006 to Nov 2009. During which time he deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and conducted two 31st MEU deployments.

In November of 2009 Major Koreis reported to the “Roadrunners” of VMR‐1, MCAS Cherry Point, NC, where he served as a station Search and Rescue pilot, flying the HH‐46E.

Major Koreis reported to the University of Idaho NROTCU in June of 2012. He is currently assigned as the Marine Officer Instructor and lead instructor for the Evolution of Warfare and Amphibious Operations courses.

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Gunnery Sergeant Orlando Castillo

GySgt Castillo was born in Texas. He enlisted in the Marine Corps in February 2000 and in March 2000 attended recruit training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot (MCRD), San Diego, California. He graduated recruit training in June 2000 and was meritoriously promoted to the rank of Private First Class. Upon graduating boot camp, he attended Marine Combat Training in Camp Pendleton, CA. In July 2000, PFC Castillo attended the Aviation Logistics Tactical Information Systems (ALTIS) Course located at Marine Detachment, Navy Supply Corps School (NSCS), Athens, Georgia. He was meritoriously promoted to Lance Corporal in December 2000, and received the MOS 6694 Aviation Information Specialist (AIS).

LCpl Castillo reported to his first duty station in August 2001. He served with Aviation Information Systems Department (AISD), Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 31 (MALS‐31), Marine Aircraft Group 31 (MAG‐31), Beaufort, South Carolina as a Maintenance Service Technician. After a short time at AISD, LCpl Castillo was meritoriously promoted to the rank of Corporal in June 2002. In April 2003, Cpl Castillo was selected as the Noncommissioned Officer of the Quarter for 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing and was meritoriously promoted to Sergeant in May 2003. Sgt Castillo served in various billets to include Maintenance Service Division NCOIC, Network Service Division NCOIC, and Systems Processing Division NCOIC and held the collateral duty of Tool Control NCOIC.

In October 2004, Sgt Castillo requested orders to Drill Instructor School and in January 2005 reported to Drill Instructor School, Class 2‐05, MCRD, San Diego, California. Upon graduation, Sgt Castillo was assigned to Hotel Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion serving as a Drill Instructor for 1 cycle, Experience Drill Instructor for 2 cycles, and Senior Drill Instructor for 2 cycles. In December 2006, Sgt Castillo was reassigned to Receiving Barracks Company where he served as Drill Instructor, Recruit Separations Platoon. In March 2007 Sgt Castillo was promoted to Staff Sergeant and became the Chief Drill Instructor Recruit Separation Platoon.

In May 2008 SSgt Castillo completed his tour aboard MCRD, San Diego and was assigned to Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 11 (MALS‐11) as the Staff Noncommissioned Officer in Charge SNCOIC), Aviation Logistics Information Management and Support (ALIMS) Department. In July 2008, SSgt Castillo deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) 08.2 with Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 16 Reinforced (MALS‐16 REIN). SSgt Castillo returned from OIF in January 2009, and again served as MALS‐11, ALIMS SNCOIC. In February 2010, SSgt Castillo deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) 10.1 with Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 16 Forward (MALS‐16 Fwd) as the ALIMS Chief. Upon his return in September 2010, SSgt Castillo served as the ALIMS Chief, MALS‐ 11. In February 2011 SSgt Castillo was promoted to his current rank of Gunnery Sergeant. In January 2012, GySgt Castillo was assigned as Squadron Gunnery Sergeant for MALS‐11.

In April 2012 GySgt Castillo was selected for special duty assignment as Assistant Marine Officer Instructor (AMOI), University of Idaho and Washington State University, Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC). GySgt Castillo reported to Officer Candidate School (OCS) May 2012, and served both increments as Sergeant Instructor for Platoon Leaders Course Seniors (PLC‐Sr), Echo Company. In September 2012, GySgt Castillo reported to the University of Idaho and Washington State University as the AMOI/ Senior Enlisted Advisor. His personal awards include the Navy Commendation Medal, Navy Achievement Medal with 3 gold stars in lieu of forth award.

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Civilian Staff

Bob Edwards spent 20 years active in the Navy as a Personnelman. He joined the University of Idaho NROTC Staff in 2003 as an Administrative Assistant through the Department of the Navy.

John Nesler spent 24 years in the Air Force Ammo and Safety communities before retiring as a Master Sergeant. He joined the University of Idaho in 2011 as the Supply Officer.

Susanna Daniels moved to Moscow from Hamilton, Montana. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in History at the University of Idaho in 2012.

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

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FALL BNCO’S CORNER

After a summer of planning for the Fall term events and increased student involvement, Ensign Harder, Iveson, and I jumped into the new semester with many ideas and lots of energy. The execution, however, went quite differently than we anticipated, but the Fall semester of 2013 was very enlightening and went quite well.

We learned a lot as the first all Midshipmen (as opposed to prior‐Enlisted) student leaders in a long time; however, it was a challenge we readily accepted and gave us all a taste of the challenges ahead of us in the Fleet.

The Fall of 2013 started off a little differently with WSU beginning a week before UI. I led the WSU Freshmen Orientation, and Ensign Iveson headed up the UI O‐Week.

We also had to try to cram a week's worth of instruction into three days, but MIDN Handley did a stellar job of introducing the new Midshipmen to Drill and closing the gap caused by the schedule difference. The other Midshipmen involved met the time crunch well and ensured that our new members were equipped to handle their first semester in the Unit and at college.

In mid‐September, the NROTC Unit headed up the POW/MIA Ceremony, which GySgt Castillo was instrumental in coordinating. Once the day of the ceremony arrived, it progressed smoothly, and the guest speaker, Les Brown, gave a very informative and moving speech in remembrance of those unable to enjoy the freedom for which they fought. A month later, the Battalion worked with the WSU staff to put together the Armed Forces Appreciation Day events, particularly the flag unfurling at the football game. Soon after, as people became more familiar with their roles in the Battalion, OC Wilson and his assistants magnificently fulfilled their duty in coordinating the Navy and Marine Corps Birthday Ball. Lieutenant Colonel James Givan was our Guest of Honor, and he also graced the Ball with a few of the historic recruiting posters he had collected. The ceremony and celebration were a wonderful final Ball for myself and the other seniors.

As the semester began to come to a close and finals began to approach, the Battalion participated in the Captain's Cup to blow off some steam, which Charlie Platoon won. Following that was the Captain's Inspection prior to Thanksgiving Break. After a good week of eating turkey and enjoying time with family and friends, the Battalion headed hard into the whirlwind of Dead Week, Change of Command, Finals, and the December Commissioning Ceremony, which all were completed in spectacular fashion.

This Battalion successfully completed another Fall Semester, and my staff and I learned a lot about communicating clearly (especially being in separate campuses), paying attention to the myriad of details involved in running the Battalion, and dealing with the new challenges arising with the increased amount of student involvement and responsibility. It was a fantastic learning experience that would have resulted in disaster without the help of my fellow shipmates. I am humbled by your work ethic and the quality you put forth when the going got tough. I look forward to seeing you all again as commissioned officers.

Ensign Joseph D. Morris United States Navy

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SPRING BNCO’S CORNER

The Spring semester of 2014 was very successful. The lessons learned and memories made will be with me for many years to come. We proved once again that our Unit thrives under pressure and that we are able to overcome and adapt to the various circumstances thrown our way. This was shown by the near flawless transition of moving Professional Development and Drill from Tuesday and Thursday mornings to Thursday afternoons alone. This smooth transition set the bar for how the Battalion would function for the rest of the semester when faced with a wide variety of challenges.

These challenges ranged from making the trip down to University of Utah for Northwest Navy, hosting a MCJROTC unit from Kellogg, to finally executing a joint PT with the Army and Air Force ROTC units. These three events were just a few of the challenges that we overcame.

After deciding to forego Northwest Navy last year it was nice to see that all the schools were back onboard and excited for the opportunity to once again compete against each other. With the location of this year’s competition being in Utah, GySgt Wilkinson was tasked with organizing all the moving parts on our end. He was able to come up with an excellent plan that the Battalion was able to execute with only minor hiccups. When the dust settled in the Salt Lake valley it was obvious, even though our Battalion may not have won the whole thing, we were by far the most physically fit Battalion out of the four schools. Having won all major military type physical fitness tests, I am proud to say that our Unit really showed what we were made of.

One of the most rewarding experiences we as a Battalion had this semester was the opportunity to host the Marine Corps JROTC unit from Kellogg High School. This event gave us the opportunity to not only let potential new members get to see our unit, but also allowed us the opportunity to reach out and mentor High School students who are thinking of joining the military in the next couple of years. This was done through a discussion panel we held with MECEPS and upperclassmen midshipmen that gave the high school students the chance to see the different routes that they could take if they decided to pursue a career in the military as an officer. It was obvious to anyone who helped participate in this event that we as a unit really made a difference in each of these student’s day by showing each of them that if this is something they really want to do it is an achievable goal.

This semester was a great semester of growth for the Battalion. We were able to accomplish many of the things that we have been trying to do in the past, but have just never seemed to have time to do so. It has been a truly eye opening experience for myself and I am extremely proud of how the Battalion performed every time they were called upon.

It has been an honor serving as the Battalion Commanding Officer and I look forward to working with each of you again in the Fleet.

Ensign Jordan Wall United States Navy

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Summer Cruises Officer Candidate School Before commissioning as an officer in the Marine Corps, all Marine Midshipmen in the NROTC program are required to pass a screening evaluation at Officer Candidate School (OCS). During the summer of 2013, I went to Quantico, Virginia for OCS. OCS is a 6 week long school that is intended to be a very stressful environment in order to test for leadership potential in those who wish to earn the title of being a United States Marine Corps officer. From the second I arrived at OCS to the second I left, the drill instructors never let up. When I arrived at OCS, I was assigned to one of three platoons that were each comprised of approximately 50 candidates. Throughout the 6 weeks we were each individually graded on academics, physical fitness, and leadership. Academics comprised 25 percent of your grade, physical fitness comprised 25 percent, and leadership was 50 percent. Classes were given every day on varying subjects such as: Marine Corps history, land navigation, operational orders, combat formations, and tactics. Physical fitness was a constant test at OCS. On the second day of training we ran a physical fitness test and those who failed did not receive any second chances, they were sent home immediately. We performed physical training on a daily basis. There were many graded physical fitness events throughout the 6 weeks. Some of the graded events included: a 6 mile hike, 9 mile hike, 12 mile hike, several 5 mile runs with gear, two physical fitness tests, an obstacle course, an endurance course, a Tarzan course, and finally a combat fitness test. The drill instructors were continually grading each candidate’s leadership ability. Throughout the 6 weeks, candidates within the platoon rotated leadership billets. During the time you had a billet, your responsibility increased dramatically. Anytime someone you were in charge of was late, forgot their gear, or messed up in any way, then you were held responsible and your grade paid for it.

The WSU/University of Idaho NROTC unit did a good job at preparing me physically and mentally for OCS. The semester before going to OCS MIDN Brim was in charge of the pre‐OCS physical training. While at OCS, I consistently performed at the top of my class in physical events because of the high demanding workouts I had been doing all semester. I was also very well prepared for the class room work before I went to OCS. While other candidates would stay up half the night before an exam studying, I would usually quickly review the subject and easily pass the tests. Finally, in terms of leadership preparation I think our Unit did a great job of preparing me as well. The Semper Fi program at the WSU/University of Idaho unit gave me the experience and knowledge to be able to successfully complete the Leadership Reaction Course and Small Unit Leadership Evaluation while at OCS. OCS was definitely a challenge, but the training I received at the WSU/University of Idaho unit the three years prior to going to OCS set me up to successfully complete the screening evaluation.

2nd Lieutenant Caleb Huber United States Marine Corps

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Surface Nuclear Cruise

During the summer of 2013, Midshipman Schuerman and I had the unique opportunity to go on a surface nuclear summer cruise. We were sent to report to U.S.S. GEORGE WASHINGTON (CVN 73) stationed in Yokosuka, Japan.

When we reported, however, one of the two nuclear reactors onboard needed repair. Because we were set to deploy for sea trials the day we reported, all personnel required for deployment were on the GW, but the air‐wing and most of the pilots were not. Since most of the nuclear personnel were working around the clock to get the GW on track for sea trials we were permitted to speak to everyone else on the ship including the fleet Admiral. I was running mates with Electrician Mates (EM’s), Damage Control Men (DC men and women), Air traffic Controllers, Meteorologists, Flagmen, Aviators, Training Officers and Navigators. The advantage of being docked in Yokosuka Japan was that we were able to see the whole surrounding area as tourists while on liberty. We were able to see and explore places like downtown Tokyo, the Tokyo Tower, Kamakura, the Buddha and other Buddha temples, Zushi beach, and the rest of the Yokosuka harbor.

After two weeks of being docked in Yokosuka, U.S.S. MOMSEN (DDG 92) picked us up to show us combat training exercises in the open ocean. While on board, I was paired up with an EM for the week. EM Wilson was extremely knowledgeable about all the electronic systems of the ship and was busy all day every day. During that week we conducted days of exercises with an Australian Frigate, which was an old decommissioned U.S. Frigate. We practiced man overboard drills, formation drills, and torpedo dodging maneuvers. We also got to tour all the spaces of the MOMSEN and stand watches at all times of the day in CIC, the bridge, and the engineering spaces. All in all, Midshipman Schuerman and I had a great summer cruise experience and definitely made the most of it.

Midshipman Macintyre

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Aviation Cruise For my 1st class summer cruise, I found myself about as far away from the ocean as one can get: Oklahoma City.

My orders had me assigned to the TACAMO (Take Charge and Move Out) community at Tinker Air Force Base. Their mission is unique, and not well known even within the Navy: the squadron flies heavily modified Boeing 707s all around the world to provide Emergency Action Messages to SSBNs while they are underway.

For three weeks the four of us Midshipmen (two from Florida State, one from University of Southern California) shadowed the crew of the squadron, accompanying them on flights, during simulations, and on a mini “deployment”. The last week was spent at Pax River Naval Air Station “On Alert”, ready to scramble the huge jets if need be.

The cruise gave us midshipman a chance to not only peek into life in a squadron, but also the day to day life of an aviation officer. The squadron was different from most because “deployments” did not mean leaving home for months, but instead meant a few days away from Oklahoma City. It was also special because they were based out of an Air Force Base, which gave all of us Midshipman the chance to be up close and personal with another branch of our military.

During our time in Oklahoma City, we toured the OKC Bombing Memorial and other museums around Oklahoma City. We also checked out Bricktown, the historical nightlife of the city, built around the river that runs through the city.

Pax River NAS brought very cool experiences as well as long waits between activities. We were stationed at an “Alert Facility”, which meant we could not leave the area for most of the week. However, when were we able to look around the base, we saw many of the upcoming aircraft the Navy and Marines are testing for use, like the F‐35 practicing VTOL (Vertical Takeoff or Landing), as well as the Navy’s tests of UAVs that can land and take off carriers. We also were able to fly in the full motion simulators and practice in air refueling (not one of the midshipman could do this even remotely safely).

The cruise ended with a long flight where the capabilities of the E6‐B Mercury and her crew were tested. We were given a chance to observe the pilots and ask tons of questions. Ultimately, the cruise was a fantastic learning experience, and gave great insight into the life of an officer in an aviation squadron.

Midshipman Barrett

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Submarine Cruise

Last summer I was sent to Oahu, Hawaii on an enlisted submarine cruise. When I got off the plane I was sent to my hotel and told to explore the island because our boat, USS COLUMBUS (SSN‐762) was not in port yet. For three days I drove around the island and talked with locals and with other Sailors as much as I could to get their perspective of Navy life in Hawaii. I wanted to know if this place could be a potential base that I would want to be stationed at someday. The highlight of my “shore” time was being taken to Pearl Harbor and seeing the USS ARIZONA memorial. It was the most sobering and influential memorial I have ever been to in my life, and I appreciate more than ever the sacrifice our Sailors and Marines made that day.

When the boat came, the other four midshipmen and I embarked and started to make our tour of the boat and meet some of the crew. Fast attack submarines are smaller so it took some time getting used to the smaller passageways and racks. I spent most of my time in the sonar room trying to understand the system and with the doctor talking about his time in the submarine service with a medical background. I learned a lot in just those three days we were underway, and I got to witness a few maneuvers and training war games.

Overall, my experience was a good one and I enjoyed my time in Hawaii and underway. I am still interested in the silent service, and this summer training helped to inform my future decisions.

Midshipman Phinney

Mountain Warfare Training Center

This summer at Mountain Warfare Training Center (MWTC) is one that won’t be quickly forgotten by the Marine Options that attended. From the second we stepped off the plane in Reno, we were held to a high level of intensity. The atmosphere was intended to prepare us for the next summer by implementing a sort of “OCS Prep Course.” When we got to the base, we were able to finally see what we were getting in to. The mountains stood ominously large in the background of the base and, after we got settled in to our squad bays, we got our first look at the terrain. The steep mountains and high elevation made a good challenge for the midshipmen there and as the week rolled along and the elevation rose higher and higher, the foreign environment took its toll. The training at Marine Corps MWTC consisted of knot tying, survival, land navigation, rock climbing, and more. In addition to the classes there, we were able to catch a ride on a CH‐53 and do some exploring of our own during the land navigation course.

Overall, MWTC was a good experience. The training we received helped us prepare for survival situations as well as OCS. When we left, we were all happy to go home, but sad to leave the beautiful area and our friends behind.

Midshipman Handley

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CORTRAMID

Over the summer nine other Midshipmen from our unit and I had the opportunity to attend Career Orientation and Training for Midshipmen (CORTRAMID). This four week event took place in San Diego, Camp Pendleton, and on the open ocean. Midshipmen were given the opportunity to spend a week with the Submarine, Surface, Aviation and Marine communities. CORTRAMID also allowed midshipmen from all over the country to get to know the men and women they will be serving with in the fleet and offers, for many, their first glimpse into actual Navy or Marine Corps life.

Our group had Sub week first. During the five days we had with the submarine community we were exposed to a lot of cutting edge technology. As one of the Junior Officers said; “Submarines are the second most advanced piece of technology we have, behind only the space shuttle”. Our group was able to visit the submarine wet trainer and try our hand at some damage control.

Basically you are placed in a small sealed room that has leaks everywhere and it is your job to stop the leaks or lose the boat. My group finished it in nine minutes and thirty seconds, where some didn’t finish at all. Needless to say we enjoyed the bragging rights. We concluded our week with an eighteen hour cruise onboard the Los Angeles class USS JEFFERSON CITY (SSN‐759). This was a great experience for the midshipmen who basically had free reign of the entire ship. I personally stayed up all night and absorbed as much knowledge as I could. Submarine week was a great way to start off CORTRAMID.

Next up was Marine week. I went into it not knowing what to expect. Marine week quickly turned into one of the best parts of CORTRAMID. The Marines shuttled us around Camp Pendleton allowing us to shoot weapon systems ranging from the M249 SAW and even a .50 Cal sniper rifle. The week concluded with a day in the field, where we slept under the stars and enjoyed the camaraderie. Next, we got to go into the Infantry Immersion Trainer (IIT), which is a model of a Somali village complete with indigenous people and adversaries. For all the future midshipmen reading this, it’s a great experience and by far Marine week is one of my fondest CORTRAMID memories.

Next up was for us was Aviation Week, where you get to wear flight suits and fly. What more could a midshipman want? My group was fortunate enough to get to fly in the T‐34 training aircraft. It basically looks like an old WWII fighter but it is a lot of fun. Due to cloud cover my flight couldn’t do any acrobatics but this translated into me being able to fly the aircraft for about 15 minutes by myself. It was a blast. The next day we got to visit a helicopter squadron and get a ride in an SH‐60 Sierra helicopter. For about two hours we flew around the hills and valleys of Southern California, it was also a ton of fun. Aviation week was amazing, at least for those who didn’t get airsick.

Aviation week was a great experience.

We ended our time at CORTRAMID with Surface Week. My group was incredibly fortunate in that the ship we got to cruise on, USS SPRUANCE (DDG‐111), probably had one of the best crews in the Navy. Every single person I met on that ship was awesome and the JOs were all more than happy to tell us anything we wanted to know, whether good or bad. After taking us out into the open ocean the CO ordered the gas turbines fired up and we commenced a full power run. It’s quite a feeling being on a warship going faster than a lot of little speed boats. We finished our time on the Spruance with an ice cream social and RHIB races. The cruise on the Spruance was amazing and I’m sure every midshipman onboard got to learn a lot about the Surface Navy.

Midshipman Cotten

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Orientation Week

I had no idea what to expect when I walked into the University of Idaho Commons for Freshman Orientation. I looked around and saw several people dressed in slacks and button up shirts scanning the area and quickly came to the realization that I would not only be spending the remainder of the week with them, but the rest of my college career.

Although the orientation was brief, there were many things that we learned. Most of us came into orientation week not knowing the difference between a MECEP and an Officer. Over the course of the week we did PT, learned drill movements and how to march, and sat through hours of briefs learning customs and courtesies, ROTC terminology, and what would be expected from us within the NROTC community. It felt like drinking water from a fire hose, we were learning so much in a small amount of time.

Our Freshman Orientation was different from those in the past in several aspects. The University of Idaho and Washington State University freshmen weren’t together due to differences in the time classes started. WSU’s orientation was the week prior to UI’s. Our sleeping accommodations were also different; we were moved into our dorm rooms rather than in a gym. Even though our experiences weren’t all the same, we all received the same general military training.

Reflecting on Orientation Week, the memories made and the knowledge obtained bonded the freshman class of midshipmen and helped shape friendships that will last throughout the year.

Midshipman Vaught

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POW / MIA Ceremony

On Saturday the 14th of September, the University of Idaho and Washington State University NROTC Unit combined with both the Air Force, and the Army ROTC units in our area as a single battalion to bring awareness and remember the sacrifices of American citizens overseas taken as prisoners of war and listed as missing in action.

The warm September morning started off with the mixed‐service battalion marching out onto the field and standing at attention for the posting of the colors and the playing of the Star‐Spangled‐Banner. As the crescendo hit, two fighter jets screamed across the sky, sending chills down everyone’s backs.

After opening remarks by Captain Eaton of the UI/WSU NROTC, the guest speaker was introduced. Les Brown is the director and commanding officer of the POW/MIA Elko Awareness Association, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting awareness about veterans and American Prisoners of War and those Missing in Action overseas.

Les Brown focused on the responsibility that we have as Americans to strive to bring all of our warriors home. He concluded the address by urging us to remember the 83,343 plus one American citizens that have been taken as prisoners of war, or listed as missing in action. He pleaded with us to remember Private First Class Bowe Bergdahl, and the tens of thousands of other missing American citizens abroad.

To be kept from your friends and loved ones in a foreign place is the greatest hell one can imagine. The members of our armed forces who have been taken as hostages abroad are held as ransom, interrogated for information and in many cases, forgotten by the general populous of the nation they fight for. This is why we celebrate POW/MIA Remembrance Day, and why we will never forget.

Midshipman Mander

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Bayview Acoustic Research Detachment Visit Visiting the Bayview Acoustic Research Detachment (ARD) was by far one of the most rewarding and interesting ROTC events of the semester. Starting with an early morning van ride, both midshipmen and officers made the trek to Lake Pend Oreille, the home of the Bayview ARD. This 1150 foot deep lake provides one of the clearest and quietest areas for Acoustic Research making it an ideal location for testing a huge variety of our Navy’s acoustic systems. For example, Bayview tests the Navy’s sonar capabilities to see how quiet our submarines really are. Bayview is the where the Navy goes when they need to know anything about acoustics in the water.

Bayview is manned by an all‐civilian contractor detachment. Many of them have served in the Armed Forces and are all subject matter experts. These men and women are all dedicated to one thing, letting the Navy do its job. It truly is inspiring seeing so many people dedicated to making sure the Navy can defend our nation to the utmost of its abilities without worrying about technological failure. The staff of Bayview ARD exemplifies the best of the Navy’s civilian support personnel.

Because Bayview handles such highly sensitive matters related to naval submarines and the listening abilities of its sonar, almost everything at Bayview was classified. Many times someone would ask a question that there wasn’t an available answer to. However, what we did learn was worthwhile. We midshipmen were exposed to the most advanced aquatic acoustics laboratory in the world, and we all walked away with a huge sense of just how important the civilian contractors are to the running of our Navy.

Midshipman Cotten

Wayne F. Manis Visit

On March 27, 2014, the University of Idaho and Washington State University Naval ROTC had the privilege of hosting Wayne F. Manis as a speaker for a professional development training session. Mr. Manis is a highly distinguished FBI Agent and a former Marine Corps Officer. He is most proud of his time spent as a Marine Officer. His time in the Marine Corps is highlighted by his tour as the Officer in Charge of the Criminal Investigative Division, Forced Troops, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific. Mr. Manis’ career in the FBI is very impressive, as he was the first agent to conduct undercover operations since WWII. His service was especially relevant here locally since he was the Special Agent in charge of efforts that led to the expulsion of the Aryan Nations white supremacist organization from Northern Idaho. Overall, Mr. Manis spent 28 years in the FBI where he specialized in domestic terrorism, organized crime, undercover and SWAT operations.

Mr. Manis visited the Unit and shared his experiences with us. Much to our benefit, he focused on what we, as aspiring Navy and Marine Corps Officers, can do to enhance our careers in the military. More importantly, he also offered advice on how to improve our leadership. The presentation concluded with too many questions left unanswered and so a smaller group of students and staff joined Mr. Manis and his wife Bobbie for dinner at Gambino’s. While there, we conversed with Mr. Manis, straining to hear every word of his time in both the Marine Corps, the FBI, and on his hunting expeditions throughout the world. Mr. Manis left us all wondering if we can fill the shoes of the great men and women that have come before us.

2nd Lieutenant Garner

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Navy and Marine Corps Birthday Ball United States Navy and Marine Corps had their 238th birthday in 2013. US Naval and Marine Corps units celebrate the birthday of their branch around the world as part of a long‐lasting tradition. On Friday, October 18th, the University of Idaho and Washington State University’s NROTC Unit celebrated the birthdays of both the Navy and Marine Corps at their joint birthday ball. The Birthday Ball is a way for the services to celebrate their military traditions and heritage. The annual tradition helps build esprit de corps and pays respect to those great men and women who served before. The night began with a cocktail and social hour where those in attendance were able to find their seats, take pictures, and mingle with other guests.

Following the cocktail hour, the ceremony portion was held where the birthday messages of the Chief of Naval Operations and the Commandant of the Marine Corps were shown. The birthday cake was cut and oldest and youngest Sailor in attendance shared a piece as did the oldest and youngest Marine in attendance. This long standing ceremony symbolizes the passing of traditions from generation to generation. After the ceremonies ended, dinner was served.

This year’s guest of honor, retired Lieutenant Colonel James Givan spoke, after everyone enjoyed their dinner.

Lieutenant Colonel Givan was a Marine flight officer whose decorated career includes serving four tours in Vietnam as a CH‐53 Helo pilot and serving as a flight leader for the evacuation of Saigon. Lieutenant Colonel Givan spoke about his experiences in NROTC and throughout his military career. He advised the Midshipmen on the importance of being “an aggressive achiever” and taking every opportunity they are presented in life to learn something new.

After the guest of honor’s speech the night concluded with dancing and revelry in celebration and remembrance of the Navy and Marine Corps’s 238 years of service and tradition.

Midshipman Vaught

The presentation of the Colors commanded by Midshipman Wulff‐Morrison

Cake eaten by youngest and oldest sailor in attendance

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Midshipmen enjoying the Birthday Ball with their dates

Midshipman Haeg reads the message from the Marine Corps

Presentation of the cake detail

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NROTC vs AROTC Football Game

Every year the Naval and Army ROTC units face off in a competition of athletic skill and performance in the form of a flag football game. Much like the game played between West Point and the United States Naval Academy, there is a fierce rivalry between the units and bragging rights on the line. The midshipman and the cadets faced off in the Kibbie Dome at U of I and after an hour of intense play the scoreboard read 28‐7 in favor of Navy. This was the second straight win for the midshipmen and the underclassmen will look to continue their streak next year.

Officer Candidate Wilson

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Semper FO

Semper Fo this past semester has been great. We accomplished a number of the tasks we originally set out to.

We had two sessions devoted to guest speakers from the Arleigh Burke‐class destroyer USS MOMSEN and the Los Angeles‐class submarine USS BOISE. Another great experience was taking a tour of the Nuclear Reactor at Washington State University.

In my opinion, guest speakers are the most beneficial part to Semper Fo. It gives the battalion members a chance to see how diverse the Navy really is. No two guest speakers are the same, and neither are their briefs and presentations. It also gives the midshipmen a look into the Navy that I, as Semper Fo Platoon Commander, cannot give simply because I have never been in the fleet. This semester with the Commanding Officer from USS Momsen, Commander Collins, we were able to learn more about the Surface Community. CDR Collins talked with Semper Fo about her recent deployment, as well as her history in the Navy. Commander Scott Luers, Master Chief Conry, and Lieutenant Junior Grade Campbell from USS Boise spoke with Semper Fo about the Submarine community.

Another beneficial part of Semper Fo was the tour of the Nuclear Reactor at Washington State University. All freshmen Navy midshipmen and several staff members made the trip. This was beneficial for Semper Fo, because it gives freshmen an interesting first view at what the Nuclear Community holds from a technical standpoint.

All in all, Semper Fo provides Navy Option MIDN with necessary Navy‐specific training. It helps compliment the other training which the Battalion takes part in.

Midshipman Stumbo

Commander Luers talks to Semper Fo Club.

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Commander Collins, graduate of Washington State University, presents a flag during her visit.

Semper FI With a new format to Semper Fi this year, I believe many of the Marine options have gathered and understood more of the information that lies in waiting for us at Officer Candidate School (OCS). We’ve spent more time breaking down the 5 Paragraph Order “Barney‐style,” more hands‐on experience with the compasses in land navigation, and more time spent honing our technique at PT events such as the rope climb. The revision this year compared to last has been truly beneficial and the organization behind it has transitioned smoothly, with us near the bottom of the chain noticing less hiccups. As the year comes to a close, midshipmen from the Unit and candidates from PLC have had opportunities to attend field exercises that put all of this year’s curriculum to the test with hikes, leadership reaction courses, and practical application of drills. MIDN Huber has done a phenomenal job orchestrating our activities to best prepare us for OCS. To MIDN Handley, Lambert, and Wulff‐Morrison; good luck at OCS. We all hope that this year’s Semper Fi has prepared you.

Midshipman Haeg

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Northwest Navy

An Overview

On April 11‐13, the University of Idaho Naval ROTC Battalion participated in the Northwest Navy competition, hosted by the University of Utah. Northwest Navy is a tradition of the University of Idaho and Washington State University NROTC who competes against NROTC units from Oregon State University, University of Utah, and the University of Washington in intramural sport events, as well as other military events. The competition included Regulation Drill, Rifle/Pistol, Color Guard, Combat Fitness Test, Physical Readiness Test, Academics, Basketball, Volleyball, Swimming, Soccer and a 5k run. The midshipmen of UI/WSU were very excited to participate and compete this year and held multiple practices with their respective teams to prepare. All the events were held on Saturday, April 12. Starting at 0630, midshipmen competed in multiple events throughout the day. University of Idaho and Washington State University took first place in the Combat Fitness Test, Physical Readiness Test, and Basketball as well as placing second and third in many other events. Two UI/WSU midshipmen were also recognized for the highest score in the Combat Fitness and Physical Readiness Tests for the entire competition. The Volleyball, Rifle/Pistol, Color Guard, Swimming, 5k and Academics did not win first place but the members of each team gave it their best and made it a close match. Despite being a competition, the opportunity to meet midshipmen from other universities was one that our midshipmen will cherish. The team events boosted morale and camaraderie within UI/WSU’s unit as well creating bonds and friendships between units. Overall, the University of Idaho and WSU ROTC’s performance in Utah was a culmination of hard work, resilience, and commitment. Every team played with heart and pride for the Unit, and the midshipmen will not walk away short of an enriching and enjoyable experience.

Freshman and Sophomore midshipmen participating in Regulation Drill

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Intermingling amongst the NROTC units at the opening ceremony

Rifle/Pistol

While the outcome may not have been desirable for the Rifle Team at Northwest Navy, I am pleased with the way we performed and trained throughout the year. It takes a lot of discipline to learn to shoot small bore competition and I am pleased with the amount of time and effort the team members put into practice. All in all, we are a young team. There is room for improvement in the program and some lessons have been learned over the last couple semesters. I am very much looking forward to next year.

I could not be happier with how the pistol team conducted themselves at Northwest Navy. During the competition, there were many unforeseen difficulties and obstacles that were out of our control. While we did not win the event, we shot well and were able to persevere. Some changes will be made for next year and I am looking forward to another year shooting pistol.

Midshipman Meagher

Team Captain Midshipman Meagher and Midshipmen Delmas, Hoeffner and Dugan shoot pistol

Midshipman Meagher and Midshipman Delmas

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Basketball

At the end of the day our country’s Navy and Marine Corps units fight for the same cause, but once you step out onto the hardwood it is any one’s game. The University of Idaho/Washington State University NROTC basketball team proved this when they competed at Northwest Navy down in Salt Lake City. With a combined attack of outside shooting and down low post moves the UI/WSU team steam rolled the competition. The combination of seasoned veterans and new additions was just too much for the other teams to handle. Even with that said, none of our midshipmen ever quit and played with heart from the opening tip to the final buzzer. Our Sailors and Marines will continue to strive and prepare for the games to follow.

Ensign Wall

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Soccer

Northwest Navy 2014 at the University of Utah proved to be an eventful experience for the University of Idaho/Washington State University soccer team. Co‐ Captained by MIDN Sorensen and MIDN MacIntyre, this gang of misfits went down and performed far beyond expectations. Soccer, being an exhibition event this year, was one of the most competitive events with outstanding teams fielded by the University of Washington and Oregon State NROTC units. Saturday’s games against the Huskies and Beavers were a culmination of hard work, resilience, and commitment built over the three weeks prior to traveling down to Salt Lake City. From the first day of practice it was evident that the majority of Battalion members on the team had never played any form of competitive soccer, with the exception of MIDN Meagher and MIDN Andres. Given only nine days of practice, the soccer team gained the ability to shoot, pass, and handle the ball without falling over or kicking the ball out of bounds.

Expectations were low but morale and enthusiasm of going down and competing against other units remained very high.

While the soccer team lost to Oregon State 4‐0 and University of Washington 3‐0, the effort on the field was not reflective of the scores. Excellent play by MIDN Meagher and Andres was backed up by the surprisingly solid play of soccer newcomers MIDN Ackerman, Beinstein, and McKay. MIDN Bates and Beinstein racked up multiple saves in goal as well. Extra thanks to SSgt Latrell and Sgt Barrios whose on the field leadership helped construct game plans and manage the defense and midfield.

Through blood, sweat, and thankfully no tears, the 2014 soccer team represented the University of Idaho/Washington State University proudly and placed third overall.

Midshipman Sorenson

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Volleyball The volleyball team had an impressive showing at Northwest Navy 2014 even though they came in at 4th place.

They competed with the three other teams present, and all matches came down to the last couple points made. The most remarkable part of the competition was the attitude of the players. It was apparent to all present that the players from the University of Idaho and Washington State University were team players and encouraging to all. Even though most players had no formal volleyball experience, all had enthusiasm for the game and put in full effort.

The team consisted of Midshipmen Bartholomew, Wilson, Sorenson, Delmas, Poirier, Piersall, Barrett, and Officer Candidate Wilson.

Ensign Bartholomew

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Physical Readiness Test

The University of Idaho Northwest Navy PRT team was extremely successful in the Northwest Navy competition for April of 2014. MIDN Bartholomew, Ackerman, MacIntyre, Meagher, Everts and Cecil were on the team. Everyone did very well in the push‐up and curl‐up portion. The 1.5 mile run was the most difficult most likely due to the higher elevation level in Utah than in Idaho. We had the most competitors of all the other schools which is one of the major reasons why we scored so much higher than the other schools. Our preparation was minimal due to most team members being part of other events during the NWN PT practice times. For everyone training on their own for the competition it speaks louder than words how prepared and disciplined our Unit was for the PRT competition.

Midshipman Macintyre

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Regulation Drill This year’s drill team consisted of both sophomores and freshmen. This breach of tradition was to give the sophomore class an opportunity to compete in close order drill at Northwest Navy. From the first day of the Fall semester, the drill team was expected to perform at a high level, and as the year progressed the team gained more and more competency until they were finally ready to compete. When the competition rolled around, the team brought everything out onto the drill deck and took fourth place. The superior effort of the drill team throughout the year showed through on game day. Throughout the many drill sessions, changes of plan, and the steep learning curve, the drill team kept marching on and gave a superior effort.

Midshipman Handley

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Swimming University of Idaho and Washington State University had a smaller swim team this year, however, that didn’t diminish their performance. With just three men and two women swimming on the team there was a lot of swimming for each member of the team. MIDN Walker and MIDN Vaught swam hard: competing in the 100 Freestyle, 200 Freestyle relay, and 200 Medley Relay; and the 200 Individual Medley, 200 Freestyle Relay, and 200 Medley Relay, respectively. On the men’s side OC Wilson swam the 200 Individual Medley and 200 Freestyle Relay. MIDN Korver swam the 100 Freestyle and the 200 Medley Relay, and MIDN Turner swam the 200 Freestyle Relay and the 200 Medley Relay. With constant schedule and event changes leading up to the meet, the swim team managed to put together a strong performance, especially early in the meet. The first events were the 100 Freestyle and the 200 Freestyle Relays.

Both MIDN Walker and MIDN Korver swam their hardest and snagged a third place and second place finish, respectively.

Considering this was MIDN Walker’s first swimming event at a competition, and the longest that she had swum continuously at a hard pace, finishing in third was exceptional. MIDN Korver battled hard all through his race for second place. Second, third, and fourth place were all within a half a second of one another, and MIDN Korver edged out the other swimmers at the wall. The 200 Freestyle Relay was set to be a hard battle. The swim team changed the Relay lineup to help beat the other relays just before the race. In the end, the UI/WSU swim team went from fourth to first in an impressive come from behind finish.

Following this we turned to final three events of the meet. MIDN Vaught swimming in the 200 IM took second place in an impressive swim that kept just ahead of a third place finish. Following this the swim team started to trend downhill unfortunately. OC Wilson followed up MIDN Vaught’s swim with a fourth place finish in the men’s 200 IM. OC Wilson pressed hard throughout the race, but he tightened up on the finish of the race and couldn’t edge out the other swimmers. Then it was time for the final event, the 200 Medley Relay. Another good race, with a come from behind finish from fourth to third; however, the later swimmers in the relay just couldn’t make up enough ground to finish in first place.

Overall, the meet was enjoyable and success with a lot of good swimming from the team. MIDN Walker definitely helped the team by joining late, and allowing us to actually participate in the meet. Everyone else had swum on a team before, and it could be seen when it came down to final moments of the races. I imagine that the swim team can perform even better next year at Northwest Navy and will likely bring home a second or first place finish.

Midshipman Turner

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Academics The Academic Competition is an event used to determine which Unit has the best knowledge of information relevant to members of the Navy and Marine Corps. The competition is conducted similarly to “Jeopardy” with categories covering all naval science courses, current events, and amphibious warfare. Only four team members could be on queue at one time with one substitute available. The biggest challenge to the competition was that a team member had to be selected previous to the category selection. This stipulation frequently led to hilarious situations in which every team had selected a member who knew nothing about the category. This year’s team consisted of SSgt Latrell, MIDN Wulff‐Morrison, MIDN Vossler, MIDN Turner, and MIDN Ackerman.

Midshipman Ackerman

Midshipman Ackerman competes against other midshipmen at the Academic Bowl.

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5k Run The members of the 5k team were MIDN Barrett, MIDN Haeg, MIDN Beinstein, and I was team captain. We did not do any team workouts, but I encouraged the team to be running on their own to prepare for the event. MIDN Haeg and I participated in a 100k relay at WSU which prepared us for running longer distance and got us acquainted with running in a race. When we arrived at the University of Utah I was driven to the start of the course by one of the LTs from UofU and their 5k captain. They explained to me that the course was a difficult one and that it had an elevation change of 1000 feet. The day of the race I injured my knee during soccer so I did not compete, but I went along to cheer and help. We were all nervous and dreading the difficult course, especially since the elevation of Salt Lake City was already much higher than we were used to. Despite being nervous the team seemed ready for the race. After the start of the race I looked up the mountain to a very steep trail and saw the runners on a trail that I thought looked like a tough trail to simply hike. The first runner to finish was the UofU 5k captain and the second was a female MIDN from the University of Washington who runs track for Seattle U. The third place runner was MIDN Beinstein. MIDN Haeg finished in 9th place and MIDN Barrett's goal was to not finish last, which he did with ease. It was a great experience and, though none of the team wants to run that course again, they enjoyed the competition and the people that ran the course with them. I am very proud of my team and the effort they put into this race.

MIDN Oliver

The 5K Team: Midshipmen Barrett, Haeg, Beinstein and Oliver.

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Color Guard Color Guard at Northwest Navy was performed by all the schools. In it we were to dress in Service Dress Blues and perform a color guard. The event was graded by two separate AMOIs, who judged the execution of each drill movement and the performance of the commander. Before each team began the drill portion of the color guard they were inspected by the AMOIs grading them on the drill portion of the event. After each team was graded, their scores were compared and the victor chosen. Oregon State University won the event, followed by the University of Utah, University of Washington and finally University of Idaho. The Commander of the University of Utah won the Best Commander award.

Midshipman Wulff‐Morrison

Midshipmen Haeg, Wulff‐Morrison, Poirer, Beinstein, and Everts present the colors for University of Idaho/Washington State University

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Combat Fitness Test Bringing home the trophy for the Combat Fitness Test (CFT) was a well‐deserved accomplishment for our team.

Prior to the competition we spent a month refining our technique, pushing our cardio endurance limits, and getting used to sucking the thin air of Utah by putting up with the Kibbie Dome. A huge contributor to our success came from GySgt Castillo and the MECEPs who coached us in practice and helped push ourselves to the point that running the CFT became easy. Come game‐day, we bested the other battalions at the 1/2‐mile sprint, especially when a majority of our team members ran faster than other unit’s fastest runner. The ammo can press was a breeze, with all our practice combined with the adrenaline from competition, many of us set personal records; the competition wasn’t even close.

Finally came the maneuver‐under‐fire portion, a course lined with cones we have to crawl through and navigate around while running with a buddy on our shoulders or carrying ammo cans. Utah and UW ran the course before us and their weaknesses showed at the end. By the time we stepped up to the plate, we knew we had the competition in the bag.

Our competition ran the course with an average of just over 2 minutes for time. Our team on the other hand had over half of us run it in way under two minutes, which is a phenomenal score when a perfect time is considered 2:15. We were all proud to bring home a trophy for an activity that matters in the fleet, hailing ourselves as the most “in shape” unit. Excitingly, we were glad to see our own MIDN Lanfear bring home the Iron Mike trophy for the CFT for having the best score. Victory tastes good!

Midshipman Haeg

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Battalion Members

Sailors and Navy Option Midshipmen

Midshipman Ackerman

Midshipman Andres

Midshipman Barrett

Midshipman Beinstein

Midshipman Bates

Midshipman Cecil

Midshipman Cotten

Midshipman Delmas

Midshipman Flack

Midshipman Everts

Midshipman Hoeffner

Midshipman Holden

Midshipman Korver

Midshipman Lanfear

Midshipman Lemmelin

Midshipman Mander

Midshipman Macintyre

Midshipman Matias

Midshipman McKay

Midshipman Meagher

Midshipman Monzon

Midshipman Oliver

Midshipman Osterloh

Midshipman Phinney

Midshipman Piersall

Midshipman Platt

Midshipman Schuerman

Midshipman Sorenson

Midshipman Stidham

Midshipman Stumbo

Midshipman Turner

Midshipman Vossler

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Midshipman Walker

Midshipman Wark

Midshipman Wilson

Battalion Members

Marines and Marine Option Midshipmen

Sergeant Barrios

Staff Sergeant Brown

Midshipman Haeg

Midshipman Dugan

Midshipman Handley

Midshipman Huber

Midshipman Lambert

Staff Sergeant Lattrell

Staff Sergeant Smargiassi

Gunnery Sergeant Smith

Midshipman Tootill

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Gunnery Sergeant Wilkison

Midshipman Wulff‐Morrison

Commissioning

Graduation marks an extraordinary day in the careers of the graduating Midshipmen, Officer Candidates and Marines of the University of Idaho/Washington State University Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps. This day represents not only the end result of the arduous academic work that each of the graduates succeeded in mastering, it also signifies the culmination of their instruction as the next generation of leaders in the United States Naval Services.

Graduation for these men and women therefore is not an end, but rather a beginning. It is their inauguration as the newest officers of the United States Navy and Marine Corps; it is their Commissioning.

Commissioning ceremonies follow Naval tradition in that the commissioning service members are separated from their peers and given superior recognition. Senior officers and peers share stories with the family and friends of the graduates. These stories serve to detail the accomplishments of commissionees’ and highlight everything from awards received to successes achieved. It is a time to acknowledge who these men and women are, and what they have done to distinguish themselves as outstanding military leaders.

During the Fall 2013 Commissioning Ceremony on the 14th of December, 2013, the University of Idaho/Washington State University recognized the Commissioning of Second Lieutenant Stefan Tuel (USMC), Ensign Mitchell Harder (USN), Ensign Roger Iveson (USN), Ensign Lynne Logue (USN), Ensign Joseph Morris (USN), and Ensign Michelle B. Zablan (USN).

During the Spring 2014 Commissioning Ceremony on the 17th of May, 2014, the University of Idaho/Washington State University recognized the Commissioning of Second Lieutenant Anthony Garner (USMC), Second Lieutenant Caleb Huber (USMC), Ensign Rochelle Pasco (USN), Ensign Dakotah Bartholomew (USN), Ensign Jordan Wall (USN), and Ensign Isaac Wilson (USN).

These are the newest officers of the United States Navy and Marine Corps. Bravo Zulu Ladies and Gentlemen!

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Fall 2013 Commissioning

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Spring 2014 Commissioning

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University of Idaho / Washington State University Newly Commissioned Officers

2nd Lieutenant Stefan Tuel

Ensign Roger Iveson

Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminology and Sociology from the University of Idaho. His first assignment is The Basic School in Quantico, Virginia.

Bachelor of Science Degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Idaho. His first assignment is Naval Flight School in Pensacola, Florida.

Ensign Mitchell Harder

Ensign Joseph Morris

Bachelor of Science Degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Idaho. His first assignment is Naval Flight School in Pensacola, Florida.

Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering from Washington State University. His first assignment is USS DECATUR (DDG‐73) in San Diego, California.

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2nd Lieutenant Anthony Garner

Ensign Isaac Wilson

Bachelor of Science Degree in Agricultural Systems Management from the University of Idaho. His first assignment is The Basic School in Quantico, Virginia.

Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Idaho. His first assignment is Naval Nuclear Power Training Command in Charleston, South Carolina. .

Ensign Dakotah Bartholomew

Ensign Rochelle Pasco

Bachelor of Arts Degree in International Studies from the University of Idaho. Her first assignment is USS HIGGINS (DDG‐ 76) in San Diego, California.

Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing from Lewis and Clark State College. Her first assignment is Naval Hospital Jacksonville at Jacksonville Naval Air Station, Florida.

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nd

2 Lieutenant Caleb Huber Bachelor of Science Degree in Civil Engineering from Washington State University. His first assignment is The Basic School in Quantico, Virginia.

Ensign Michelle Zablan Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing from Washington State University. Her first assignment is to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland.

Ensign Lynn Logue

Ensign Jordan Wall

Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing from Washington State University. Her first assignment is Naval Medical Center in Portsmouth, Virginia.

Bachelor of Science Degree in Actuarial Sciences from Washington State University. His first assignment is Naval Flight School in Pensacola, Florida.

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