Heritage, Scholarship, Leadership, Camaraderie · 2009. 8. 7. · The official message board of the...

12
The official message board of the University of Texas NROTC Alumni Foundation H H er i i t a a ge, S c c h h o o l a a r s s h h i i p, L L e a a der s s h h i i p, C a a m a a r a a der i i e Volume 14, Issue 3 August 2009 1 1 On Saturday, April 4 2009 members of the University of Texas Naval ROTC Battalion took first, second, and third place at the annual Zimmerman Recon Challenge, a grueling competition of strength and endurance held every spring at Walter E. Long Park. The Zimmerman Recon Challenge is sponsored by the family of fallen Marine Corps Staff Sergeant Christopher Michael Zimmerman, who was killed in action in Zaidon, Iraq. It benefits the CMZ Foundation, which benefits youth of the local community through mentoring and financial assistance. Staff Sergeant Zimmerman’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. Zimmerman, were on hand to cheer the participants on. The event is open to anyone who is up to the challenge. Seventeen competitors met at dawn on dew-glistened fields to attempt the charity-benefit challenge, a course requiring individuals to complete an 800- meter swim, 40 pull-ups, 100 push-ups, a 5K run with a 35-pound pack, 200 sit-ups, and another 5K run. The athletes must finish all of these events for time. US Marine and NROTC Battalion member Nick Hooge blazed through the race to finish in 1 hour, 26 minutes, 43 seconds and earn the first place prize. Following close behind were NROTC seniors Drew Marcantonio with 1 hour, 31 minutes, 1 second, and Sean Fuhrmann winning third place in 1 hour, 48 minutes, 45 seconds. Marcantonio and Fuhrmann will graduate in May and be commissioned in the Marine Corps. Continued on Page 2 Three from UT NROTC win Z Zimmerman R Recon C Challen g ge First Place Nick Hooge and Mrs. Faith Zimmerman Faith Zimmerman congratulates Drew Marcantonio (2 nd ) and Nick Hooge Sean Fuhrmann (3 rd ) Drew Marcantonio Early Morning Start

Transcript of Heritage, Scholarship, Leadership, Camaraderie · 2009. 8. 7. · The official message board of the...

Page 1: Heritage, Scholarship, Leadership, Camaraderie · 2009. 8. 7. · The official message board of the University of Texas NROTC Alumni Foundation Heritage, Scholarship, Leadership,

The official message board of the University of Texas NROTC Alumni Foundation

HHeerr ii ttaaggee ,, SScchhoo llaarr sshhiipp,, LLeeaaddeerr sshhiipp,, CCaammaarraaddeerrii ee

Volume 14, Issue 3 August 2009

1 1

On Saturday, April 4 2009 members of the University of Texas Naval ROTC Battalion took first, second, and third place at the annual Zimmerman Recon Challenge, a grueling competition of strength and endurance held every spring at Walter E. Long Park. The Zimmerman Recon Challenge is sponsored by the family of fallen Marine Corps Staff Sergeant Christopher Michael Zimmerman, who was killed in action in Zaidon, Iraq. It benefits the CMZ Foundation, which benefits youth of the local community through mentoring and financial assistance. Staff Sergeant Zimmerman’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. Zimmerman, were on hand to cheer the participants on. The event is open to anyone who is up to the challenge. Seventeen competitors met at dawn on dew-glistened fields to attempt the charity-benefit challenge, a course requiring individuals to complete an 800-meter swim, 40 pull-ups, 100 push-ups, a 5K run with a 35-pound pack, 200 sit-ups, and another 5K run. The athletes must finish all of these events for time. US Marine and NROTC Battalion member Nick Hooge blazed through the race to finish in 1 hour, 26 minutes, 43 seconds and earn the first place prize. Following close behind were NROTC seniors Drew Marcantonio with 1 hour, 31 minutes, 1 second, and Sean Fuhrmann winning third place in 1 hour, 48 minutes, 45 seconds. Marcantonio and Fuhrmann will graduate in May and be commissioned in the Marine Corps. Continued on Page 2

Three from UT NROTC win ZZiimmmmeerrmmaann RReeccoonn CChhaalllleennggee

First Place Nick Hooge and Mrs. Faith Zimmerman Faith Zimmerman congratulates Drew Marcantonio (2nd) and Nick Hooge

Sean Fuhrmann (3rd)

Drew Marcantonio

Early Morning Start

Page 2: Heritage, Scholarship, Leadership, Camaraderie · 2009. 8. 7. · The official message board of the University of Texas NROTC Alumni Foundation Heritage, Scholarship, Leadership,

2

Volume 14, Issue 3 August 2009

Alumni Foundation Officers Edwin W. “Ed” Mergele (1975)

President Michael Waldron (1967)

Vice President Spencer H. Smith (1973)

Secretary Dan O’Neil (1980)

Treasurer Robert W. “Bob” Looney (1962)

Editor/Publisher James D. Brotherton (1968)

Historian

Alumni Foundation Board of Directors

James D. Brotherton (1968) W. Robert Brown (1952) John Engstrom (1966)

R. Glenn Looney (1961) Robert W. “Bob” Looney (1962) Edwin W. “Ed” Mergele (1975)

Fred Moon (1970) Dennis Olson (1969)

Dan O’Neil (1980) Gabriel R. Salazar (1979)

Spencer Smith (1973) Michael Waldron (1967)

David Wells (1969)

Ex-Officio Members CAPT James M. Spence, USN

Professor of Naval Science Jack Ritter (1955)

Navy League Liaison

Regional Directors Ray Adams (1980)

DFW (H) 972-596-7188 Keys Curry (1958)

Houston (H) 713-783-8185 Robert Hancock (1967) West (H) 619-586-0036

K. J. Moore (1964) Eastern (H) 703-759-3327

Rudy Kruger (1963) Central (H) 402-331-6557

Henry Harper (1965) Mountain (H) 208-522-7776

Midshipmans Foundation

Directors Clay W.G. Fulcher (1955) Robert L. Gartner (1965)

John Hitchock (1965) J. Weldon Koenig (1958)

Max Miller (1957)

Midshipmans Foundation Advisory Directors Donald S. Inbody

Jefferson D. Howell (1961)

Chairman, Gifts Committee W. Robert Brown (1952)

Printing of the UT NROTC

Alumni Log generously donated By Raytheon Company

McKinney, Texas

Z-Man Continued from Page 1 The average time to complete the course was 2 hours, 12 minutes. Next year’s challenge will be held on Saturday, April 10, 2010 at Walter E. Long Park. To learn more about the Zimmerman Recon Challenge visit their website at www.zmanchallenge.com.

Who is This?

LLEETT TTHHEE RRAACCEE BBEEGGIINN!!

Page 3: Heritage, Scholarship, Leadership, Camaraderie · 2009. 8. 7. · The official message board of the University of Texas NROTC Alumni Foundation Heritage, Scholarship, Leadership,

3

Volume 14, Issue 3 August 2009

President’s Corner Ed Mergele (1975)

Next month, we party! It’s time for our annual Reunion again so don’t forget to make your reservations. The WWII folks are making special plans (Contact Fred Moon at [email protected] or 817-681-1471 for details), as is the Class of 1969 (Contact David Wells at [email protected] or 817-579-5769 for details). And when you send in your signup form (Page 5) don’t forget to donate to the UT NROTC Alumni Foundation, as well as the Midshipmans Foundation. Your contributions are tax deductible, so be as generous as you can. Remember, we use these funds to help the Battalion and the Naval ROTC Unit. Our next board meeting will be November 14, 2009 and we will be having some serious discussions of the funding and the future of the UT NROTC Alumni Foundation. Our membership committee reported back in July with some interesting questions and recommendations that will be acted upon at that meeting. If you would like to attend, let me know so adequate space can be arranged. If you just have ideas you’d like to share, drop me an email at [email protected].

What I Did On My Summer Vacation

MIDN 1/C Tan Nguyen completed Marine Corps Officer Candidate School (OCS) this summer. OCS is a grueling, six week course held in Quantico, VA where Marine officer candidates are evaluated in three areas: academics, physical fitness and leadership potential. All Marine Corps officer candidates, whether they are Staff NCOs in the Marine Enlisted Commissioning Education Program (MECEP) or Marine-option Midshipmen, must complete OCS in order to be eligible for commissioning. Officer candidates must also conduct themselves professionally at OCS whereas any minor moral misstep will result in disenrollment. Candidates are always under scrutiny while participating to make sure only the best and brightest can call themselves Marine Officers. The following is MIDN Nguyen’s view of the OCS experience:

This summer was probably one of the most challenging summers of my life. The entire time I pushed myself and absorbed as much knowledge as I could. The training that we received was proof that the human body could endure a lot more than we think. Physical challenges such as PT, the Endurance Course, and the 12 mile hump were some of the most difficult obstacles that I had to face. Combined with the physical obstacles were mental stresses caused by lack of sleep and academic benchmarks. There were also many lessons that I learned. Throughout the time at OCS, I understood the true purpose of the Chain of Command. Communication both up and down the Chain of Command was crucial in any given situation. I noticed that lack of communication fostered more frustration throughout the platoon. The prior-service Marines utilized the Chain of Command really well and I gained a lot of knowledge from them by observing their techniques and asking questions. Working with the enlisted Marines gave me more respect for them and what they do for the Corps. Due to the exposure and interaction with many Marines and candidates, OCS has been a very good learning experience. I have a better understanding of the Marine Corps’ training procedures, communication within the ranks, and respect for the enlisted Marines. Overall, I feel like I have a much better appreciation for the Marine Corps, its mission, and what to expect in the future.

Semaphore Anyone? Look on the British or American Album releases of HELP by the Beatles. Both are different and neither spells “HELP”. So what do they spell? You still have the album, right?

Page 4: Heritage, Scholarship, Leadership, Camaraderie · 2009. 8. 7. · The official message board of the University of Texas NROTC Alumni Foundation Heritage, Scholarship, Leadership,

4

Volume 14, Issue 3 August 2009

Vice President’s Corner

Mike Waldron (1967)

The members of the UT NROTC Class of 2013 are about to begin their incredible journey towards officer commissioning very soon. All their efforts and focus on college admission have culminated in acceptance at the premier university in Texas in a military program that will lead to becoming Navy or Marine Corp officers. Sounds like pretty serious stuff! Fortunately they have the moral support and backing of many of us who have been down that road before. I can still remember when my folks dropped me off at the old Crow’s Nest in the fall of 1962 at the tender age of seventeen. I was wide-eyed and totally bewildered at what would befall me. Thanks to the example and leadership of the more senior middies at the Nest, the camaraderie of the Buccaneers and the stern guidance of the staff I managed to make it through. Those days shaped my ethics and attitude forever. Today all of us who are giving back as part of the alumni association have created a support foundation to make that transition a little easier. The Alumni Foundation is considering new financial goals to insure that our midshipmen have every opportunity to excel. As these plans develop, we of course will be turning to all of you who benefitted from the NROTC program for support. Stand by!

Naval ROTC Students Participate in Spring Field Exercise On a sunny spring weekend from March 28th to the 29th, 27 members of the Marine Corps Platoon from the UT Naval ROTC Battalion participated in a 30-hour field exercise at Camp Bullis, San Antonio.

The future military officers developed skills with map and compass and honed their leadership abilities during the tactical training exercises. The Midshipmen and Marines also spent time navigating the “Leadership Reaction Course”, a series of challenges requiring quick thinking, decision-making, and teamwork. The platoon finished the weekend with a 6-mile conditioning hike.

Midshipman First Class Cody Hoffman (center) navigates an

element of the Leadership Reaction Course at

Camp Bullis.

Members of the University of Texas Naval ROTC unit’s Marine Platoon on a 6-mile conditioning hike.

YYee OOllddee CCrrooww’’ss NNeesstt

Anyone remember this place? Does 1010 W. 24th St. ring a bell? This was the second location for the Crow’s Nest. From the 50’s to the 80’s the Crow’s Nest served as a room and board cooperative for Midshipmen. What a crew!

Page 5: Heritage, Scholarship, Leadership, Camaraderie · 2009. 8. 7. · The official message board of the University of Texas NROTC Alumni Foundation Heritage, Scholarship, Leadership,

5

Volume 14, Issue 3 August 2009

University of Texas NROTC Alumni Foundation

P.O. Box 143562 Austin, TX 78714-3562

2009 Alumni Reunion Registration & Donation Form

Please return this form by 18 September From: ___________________________________________________ Year Group: Address: Phone: (H) _______________________________ (C or W) Email Address: Yes!! I’ll be there!! Reserve the following for me:

Friday Morning Golf _____ (How many to play. Pay at Golf Course)

Friday night dinner _____ x $35 each = $ Football tickets _____ x $75 each = $ BBQ dinner tickets _____ x $20 each = $ Speedway Parking _____ x $10 each = $

Total amount for Reunion: $ I can’t attend this year. Please enter the updates provided above. Please, accept my tax-deductible donation for 2009 (check one):

Participating: $25 Sustaining: $50 Patron: $75 Other: $ I have already given!

Make all checks payable to: NROTC ALUMNI FOUNDATION. Reunion events payment and tax-deductible donations may be combined into one check. Donations will be acknowledged, in writing, annually. Mail to address shown at the top of this form. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Make reservations for the Navy League Distinguished Speaker Dinner with: Glenn Looney at 512-327-7413 and [email protected] 14 Chapin Ln Austin TX 78746-2542

Page 6: Heritage, Scholarship, Leadership, Camaraderie · 2009. 8. 7. · The official message board of the University of Texas NROTC Alumni Foundation Heritage, Scholarship, Leadership,

6

Volume 14, Issue 3 August 2009

2009 UT NROTC Alumni Foundation Reunion Activities Hotel Accommodations are available for all attendees at the Drury Inn & Suites Austin North, 6711 IH-35 North, Austin 78752, 512-467-9500. For reservations, call 800-325-0720 and tell them the hotel name “Drury Inn & Suites Austin North” and group name "UT NROTC Alumni". Group number is 2065391. Reservations must be made no later than Thursday 10 Sept for the group rate. Same amenities as last year with complimentary breakfast buffet, manager's reception daily, free parking, cable TV with HBO, etc. Go to www.druryhotels.com for more info. You can also book your rooms online by clicking on “Book it Fast” on their website. Room rates per night for 1 to 4 persons are 2 doubles or king deluxe $92. Suites with single king or two queens is $130. City hotel tax is an additional 15% (subject to change without notice). Check-in is 1500 and check-out is 1100. Thursday 24 September Navy League Dinner and Program. The Greater Austin Council (new name) will kick off the 2009 reunion weekend with a dinner and distinguished speaker program on Thursday, 24 September 2009. This is the Council's signature events each year as it honors The University of Texas NROTC midshipmen, officer candidates, staff, and alumni. Rear Admiral John D. Butler, United States Navy (Retired), Vice-President Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company for Fleet Ballistic Missile Program Requirements, will keynote the week's activities as the Council's Distinguished Speaker and Guest of Honor. Following custom, he is an alumnus of the University of Texas. His two sons were also recently commissioned in the United States Navy out of the University of Texas.

John D. Butler, Rear Admiral, U.S. Navy (Retired) commenced his current assignment at Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company in September 2008. From September 2005 to August 2008, he served as Vice President of Programs and Senior Naval Advisor for Lockheed Martin Maritime Systems and Sensors (MS2), which included 18 months as the on-site Lockheed Martin Executive in charge of Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) production in Marinette, Wisconsin. He joined Lockheed Martin MS2 in September 2005, after having completed a 31 year career as a Submariner and Engineering Duty Officer. A native of Texas City, TX, he received his Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from the University of Texas at Austin in 1974 and his Masters of Science degree in Engineering Acoustics from the Naval Postgraduate School in 1986. Butler was commissioned in the Navy via the Nuclear Power Officer Candidate Program in 1974. His complete curriculum vitae may be found at this link: http://tinyurl.com/radmbutler. The meeting will be held at the Austin Woman’s Club (1st Floor) located at the corner of San Antonio and 8th Street. Access to the entrance and parking area is from the rear on Nueces Street between 7th & 8th Streets. Parking is free-ignore the signs. Social hour begins at 1815; Dinner is at 1915; Program begins at 2015; Adjourn at 2115. All Navy League meetings are open to the public. Your family and friends are all welcome. Reservations are required by Tuesday, 22 September 2009 (may pay at the door $25 per person with reservation). For more information and reservations call Glenn Looney 512-327-7413 ([email protected]). Friday 25 September Golf Outing. For those of you interested in a reunion Golf outing we will be gathering at Star Ranch on Friday September 25th in the morning. Currently we have a promise from Star Ranch for 4 tee times (16 players), starting at 0830. We can get more, if there is group interest. Please indicate your desire to participate on the Reunion Registration Form (Page 5). As in previous encounters we will face off Navy versus Marine. The Star Ranch offers both a Breakfast Buffet and a Lunch Buffet as part of the green fee. Star Ranch is located at 2500 FM 685 in Hutto, Texas (NE Austin just north of the new toll road 45 East). The current rates for green fee/cart/range balls/buffet are $52 (seniors $37). We will pay when we get there. Notify Jim Brotherton if you are interested in playing. Home Phone: 512-394-9381 or cell 512-632-4206 or email [email protected]. Directions: From Austin Take IH 35 North exit Louis Henna Blvd (Toll 45/Loop 1) Travel 1.4 miles on access road to Toll Road 45 East Travel approx 2.7 miles and take 130 North Exit Gattis School Road/685 North Continued on Page 8

Page 7: Heritage, Scholarship, Leadership, Camaraderie · 2009. 8. 7. · The official message board of the University of Texas NROTC Alumni Foundation Heritage, Scholarship, Leadership,

7

Volume 14, Issue 3 August 2009

Now Hear This! - Challenge 2009 is Underway Have you answered the CHALLENGE for 2009? Here’s the deal. If we can raise $50,000.00 before December 1, 2009, one of our dedicated Alumni has promised to match that amount! He did it last year with the help of your support. With this additional $100,000 added to the Midshipmans Foundation Scholarship Fund, we will be very close to our goal of a $1 million dollar scholarship endowment. We need your help. Please use the form provided below and send your check or pledge to Bob Gartner, Treasurer of the Midshipmans Foundation, today.

Exes for Texas XXXXXXXx xXXXXXXX XXXXXXXx xXXXXXXX XXXXXXX XXXXXXX XXXXXXX xxxXXXxxx XXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXx XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXx XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXX XXXXXXX XXXXXXXXX xXXXXXXXx XXXXXXX

Donation Form for Midshipmans Foundation Scholarship Fund

Name__________________________________________ Commissioning Class:

Address

City ______________________________________ State _____________________ Zip

Phone: Home Business

Fax: E-mail: Suggested Donation Levels: $100 $500 $1,000 $2,500 $5,000 (or more)

Amount Enclosed: ______________________________ Please make check payable to: Midshipmans Foundation (if not using matching gift program) or to the University of Texas (if using the matching gift program). Also enclose your company form.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mail all donations for the Midshipmans Foundation Scholarship Fund, to the following address:

Bob Gartner, Treasurer Midshipmans Foundation

6908 Bayridge Terrace Austin, TX 78759

We look forward to hearing from you. Don't forget to include your e-mail address!!

Page 8: Heritage, Scholarship, Leadership, Camaraderie · 2009. 8. 7. · The official message board of the University of Texas NROTC Alumni Foundation Heritage, Scholarship, Leadership,

8

Volume 14, Issue 3 August 2009 Continuation of Reunion Activities from Page 6 Travel approx 1 mile North on FM685 and turn left at second stop light Go 0.6 miles South on FM 685 and Star Ranch will be on your right. UT NROTC Alumni Dinner. This year’s UT NROTC Alumni Dinner will be held at the Austin Country Club with cocktails at 1830, followed by dinner at 1900. The tentative cost is $35, but is subject to change. Dress will be “business casual” (i.e. sport coat or dress shirt/slacks). Directions: Go one mile south of the Loop 360 bridge over Lake Austin and take Westlake Drive east. Go about 200 meters and turn left onto Long Champ Drive and go to 4408 at the end. Call 512-328-0090 if you get lost. Informal Gathering. All year-group class members may also gather at Scholz Garten (1607 San Jacinto) at 1900 for socializing. Be prepared to contact others to make plans to meet at an alternate location if Scholz’s ends up being reserved for a private party. Telephone for Scholz Garten is 512-474-1958. Saturday 26 September Parking on Campus. Last year we were able to get 20 parking spaces, near the RAS ROTC building along Speedway, reserved on game day for $10 a piece. We’re hopeful we can get that many again this year, perhaps more, and at the same price. Please indicate your desire to have one of these spaces on the Reunion Registration Form (Page 5). First come, first served. Board of Directors Meeting. 0800 in the Library on the 1st deck of the RAS ROTC building. Alumni Reunion Business Meeting. 0930-1130, Location TBA – we are looking into an auditorium near the ROTC Bldg with multi-media presentation capability, probably Welch Hall again. The morning business meeting is the main reunion event, and it will provide an opportunity to learn of all the latest unit activities, plans, achievements, etc., and also that of the Midshipmans Foundation. It is a great opportunity to meet with Midshipmen, staff, and alumni. Tickets that have been ordered for the UTEP/Texas football game will also be distributed at the meeting. Football Game: UT El Paso vs. Texas. Start time is 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $75. You can reserve your tickets on the Reunion Registration Form (Page 5). Reunion BBQ. The UTEP/Texas game will start at 2:30pm, so we will have our BBQ right after the Business Meeting at the ROTC Bldg. This should give us ample time to eat and visit before the game. Those who don’t go to the game are welcomed to stay and visit all you want. The cost for the BBQ is $20 per head. Reservations should be made on your Reunion Registration Form (Page 5). Sunday 27 September Breakfast. At 0800, an informal breakfast will be held at Cisco’s on East 6th Street. You may show up at your convenience, but the earlier the better, so you can see your friends one more time before they hit the road!

CCllaassss ooff ‘‘6699 RReeuunniioonn IInnffoo UUppddaattee We hope to see as many of our Class of ‘69 at the reunion as possible for the class's 40th anniversary. David Wells will be leading the effort. By this time you should have received an email or letter from David with all of the information. You can reach him at 817-579-5769 or email at [email protected] if you have any questions. If you have not yet done so, please send in your reservations using the form in this newsletter (Page 5). On Friday night 25 September 1930 hours (7:30 p.m.) the class will meet for an informal get-together at Sholz's Garten (all alumni are invited). Other weekend events and Hotel information is listed on pages 6 and 8. Hope to see all of you there.

Page 9: Heritage, Scholarship, Leadership, Camaraderie · 2009. 8. 7. · The official message board of the University of Texas NROTC Alumni Foundation Heritage, Scholarship, Leadership,

9

Volume 14, Issue 3 August 2009

From the President of the Midshipmans Foundation A one Million Dollar endowment fund to support the Battalion members of the University of Texas at Austin NROTC unit has been our goal for some time. Many Alumni have worked for and contributed to this goal but we are not there yet. We are, however close enough to see the goal line. If we meet the challenge this year and match the $50,000.00 gift from one of our highly motivated Alumni, we will be near the $850,000.00 endowment level. If we match the $50,000.00 challenge for the next two years we should go over the goal line in 2011. Give us a hand and make this a reality so that we will be able to assist the men and women of our NROTC unit on a continuing basis. With a one million dollar endowment fund we can award $50,000.00 in scholarships annually and help our officer candidates realize their highest potential. If you have not contributed to the challenge this year, please consider a contribution at this time in whatever amount you can handle. Every donation, large or small, is important. The Board is currently working on a succession plan to insure the future leadership of our scholarship Foundation. If you would like to be a part of that leadership team, please let me or any member of the Board know. We will keep you informed as we move forward with plans to insure the Foundation is in good hands. See all of you at the reunion in September.

Dallas-Ft. Worth Regional Get-Together is a Success!

You got your newsletter, didn’t you? On June 20, 2009 the Dallas-Ft. Worth (DFW) Regional Directors Ray Adams (’80) and David Wells (’69) set up a luncheon at the Spring Creek Bar-B-Que in Grapevine, Texas for the members who live in the Dallas-Ft. Worth area. Around twenty-five alumni and their spouses, representing year groups from WWII and Korea to the 1980's, gathered to enjoy BBQ and share memories. Dennis Olson (’69) used the opportunity to solicit some tax-deductible contributions to help support the Board's operating expenses. It is amazing how much folks are willing to give after a plate of BBQ. Following the meal Fred Moon (’70) formed a volunteer working party from the captive audience to fold and label the last newsletter everyone received. The get-together idea resulted from a suggestion by the Board that the regional groups can help foster more interaction and support from the alumni by having organized local events for the regional members who may not be able to make it to the annual reunion in Austin or for those that just need an opportunity to see old friends more often than annually at the Reunion. The DFW team is planning to have another luncheon sometime next March or April and has challenged other regional groups to follow suit.

UT NROTC DFW REGION

WWII Alumni Reunion Info Update Thursday, 24 September, 1300, at the Doubletree Hotel North Hospitality Suite is when the fun begins with refreshments and fellowship. Thursday evening’s dinner will be casual in the Courtyard Café. Pay as you go or bill to your room. The Hospitality Suite will be open afterward for additional sea stories! We’ll still have the Hospitality Suite to gather in Friday morning. We can gather for a large group lunch like last year. Friday evening we can join other alums for the general Reunion Dinner at the Austin Country Club. If you need a ride, we’ll get you and those with you a ride to and from the dinner with another alum. We’re working on rides for the Saturday morning Alumni General Business Meeting, too. Rates at the Doubletree for a king or two doubles room will be $119 per night for 1-2 persons. Phone 1-800-347-0330 for reservations and refer to the group name “UT NROTC World War II Alumni”. Keep in contact with Fred Moon ([email protected] or 817-681-1471) for any late developments or if you need to be interviewed. Personal history interviews will be conducted on Thursday afternoon and/or Friday.

Page 10: Heritage, Scholarship, Leadership, Camaraderie · 2009. 8. 7. · The official message board of the University of Texas NROTC Alumni Foundation Heritage, Scholarship, Leadership,

10

Volume 14, Issue 3 August 2009

Highlights of the July Board Meeting On Saturday, July 18, 2009, your board of directors met on campus at the RAS (ROTC) building at 10:00 a.m. Most every member was present. Opening remarks mentioned the DFW BBQ luncheon get-together which helped get our last newsletter out, the giving of two scholarships at the Battalion’s Spring Change of Command and Awards Ceremony, and the passing of Farrah Fawcett, who was a Navy Sweetheart in the late 1960’s. The Treasurer gave his report stating that our balance is unusually low at this point due to a delay or slow down in contributions. The Midshipmans Foundation said that their fund is over $700,000 now and it’s doing well in spite of current economic conditions. We are less than $10,000 away from reaching our goal of $50,000 in contributions to the Midshipmans Foundation for 2009. Remember, if we meet or exceed that goal one or our more generous alumni has pledged to add another $50,000 to it. CAPT Spence gave a lengthy report on the Battalion and the unit since there is a lot of activities going on. A new obstacle course is being planned for the unit to be located at the J. J. Pickle Center. Also the ROTC Building is to be torn down next year and all ROTC programs relocated to the Geography Building. A new building for the College of Liberal Arts will be built on the site of the RAS Bldg. Also the library of Howard Lowe (’44) was given to the unit and will be dedicated to the Classes of 1943-44. A board meeting was scheduled for November 14, 2009 to discuss strategic issues facing the NROTC Alumni Foundation, some of which were given in a report by Jack Ritter on his committee’s work involving growing our alumni participation, raising money, and keeping in touch with midshipmen graduates once they leave. Dan O’Neil reported we have over 15 people signed up for the LinkedIn service on the internet. Plans for the Reunion are moving right along. This year more midshipmen will be invited to participate in Reunion activities since they had expressed an interest in doing so. The hunt is underway for new board directors. We will be losing at least one director this coming fall. Plans were made for one more newsletter to go out in August before the Reunion. The meeting was adjourned about 20 minutes late with all the business that had to be discussed. Most retired to Sholz’s for lunch before heading home.

UT NROTC ALUMNI FOUNDATION OPERATING FUND INCOME AND EXPENSE STATEMENT

(AS OF 7/18/2009)

BEGINNING BALANCE (04/18/09) $4,364.62 INCOME

Member Checks (Operating Fund FY09) $ 810.00 Member Checks (Book/other) $ 26.00 TOTAL INCOME $ 836.00 EXPENSES

Newsletter Expenses $ 538.27 TOTAL EXPENSES $ 538.27 CURRENT BALANCE $ 4,662.35

CURRENT LIABILITIES Football Tickets $2,800.00

TOTAL LIABILITIES $ 2,800.00 PROJECTED BALANCE $1,862.35

The LinkedIn group us up and running. It’s called “University of Texas NROTC Alumni”. All are encouraged to join. Contact Dan O’Neil, the group manager, by email at [email protected] and he will help you get set up.

Tom Mickelsen (’64) has two UT season football tickets for sale (less the TECH and UTEP games), proceeds to go to the Midshipmans Foundation. Cost is $400 for NROTC shipmates or $500 for anyone else. The seats are in the Westside end zone, 40 rows up. Contact Tom at [email protected] or 209-632-2917.

Page 11: Heritage, Scholarship, Leadership, Camaraderie · 2009. 8. 7. · The official message board of the University of Texas NROTC Alumni Foundation Heritage, Scholarship, Leadership,

11

Volume 14, Issue 3 August 2009

In Memoriam Albert M. Wolford

Albert “Bert” M. Wolford of Houston, Texas passed away Tuesday June 16, 2009 following a life of success, happiness and love. He was born on Sep 12, 1921 to Judge and Mrs. Albert M. Wolford in McKinney, Texas. After graduating from high school, he attended The University of Texas at Austin where he entered the Naval ROTC program and was a member of the Texas Cowboys. He was commissioned in 1944 as an Ensign in the US Navy to serve aboard the Attack Transport U.S.S. Doyen (APA-1). During his time in the US Navy, Bert became known as "Tex" and distinguished himself by serving through the invasions of Saipan, Guam, Leyte Gulf, Luzon and Iwo Jima during WWII. After the war in 1945, "Tex" returned to the University of Texas, finished his degree and began his career in

business. Bert was a long-time employee of Texas United Chemical Company and United Salt Corporation where he served in many capacities including President and member of the board for many years. He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Sylvia; his daughter Rebecca Wolford Walling and husband Arthur of Tampa, Florida; daughter Margaret Wolford Tanner and husband David of Houston, Texas; and son Albert M. Wolford III and wife Christy of Fort Collins, Colorado; and 5 grandchildren.

In Memoriam Horace Brewer Hill

Horace B. Hill passed away February 16, 2009 in Houston, Texas. Horace was born on April 2, 1925 in Pauls Valley, Oklahoma, the youngest of three boys. After graduation from Lamar High School, Houston, Texas, Horace embarked on his naval career during WWII when he enlisted in the Navy at age 18 in 1943. He was selected for the V-12 Program and served at the University of Texas from 1944 to 1945. After WWII ended, Horace was transferred to San Diego where he mustered out in 1946. He returned to the University of Texas and graduated with a degree in Aeronautical Engineering/ Business. After marriage to his beloved wife Louise, he embarked on a career as a CPA in Houston, where he maintained an accounting firm for fifty years. A strong supporter of the University of Texas,

Horace attended several of the UT NROTC Alumni Reunions. In addition to his wife, Louise, he is survived by three sons and spouses, and five grandchildren.

AATTTTEENNTTIIOONN CCLLAASSSS OOFF 11997700!! Next year is the 40th Anniversary for the Class of ’70. Plans are already underway but we need maximum participation. Contact Fred Moon ([email protected] or 817-681-1471) for details and to share any ideas you may have about special activities or events.

NNoossttaallggiiaa PPoorrttaall Remember the Ready Room in Corpus Christi and the amphibious assault on Coronado, not to mention a little impromptu Buccaneer practice with M-16s no less? Note the helmet decor.

Summer 1972

Blacklight painting by UT Middie in the NAS Corpus Ready Room

Planting the Flag Buccaneer Action

The Landing

Remember Blacklights?

Page 12: Heritage, Scholarship, Leadership, Camaraderie · 2009. 8. 7. · The official message board of the University of Texas NROTC Alumni Foundation Heritage, Scholarship, Leadership,

12

UT NROTC ALUMNI FOUNDATION P.O. Box 143562 Austin, TX 78714-3562 Forwarding Service Requested

Zimmerman Recon Challenge ............................................................................................ 1 President’s Corner .............................................................................................................. 3 What I Did On My Summer Vacation ................................................................................ 3 Vice President’s Corner ...................................................................................................... 4 Remembering the Crow’s Nest........................................................................................... 4 Naval ROTC Students Participate in Spring Field Exercise............................................... 4 2009 Reunion Registration/Alumni Foundation Donation Form ....................................... 5 2009 UT NROTC Alumni Reunion Activities ................................................................... 6 Donation Form for Midshipmans Foundation .................................................................... 7 Class of 1969 Event Update................................................................................................ 8 Note from the President of the Midshipmans Foundation .................................................. 9 Dallas-Ft. Worth Regional Get-Together is a Success! ...................................................... 9 WWII Alumni Reunion Info Update .................................................................................. 9 Highlights of the 7-18-2009 UT NROTC Alumni Foundation Board Meeting ........... 10 Sale of UT Season Football Tickets to benefit Midshipmans Foundation ....................... 10 LinkedIn Information........................................................................................................ 10 Alumni Foundation Operating Fund Expense and Income Statement.............................. 10 Nostalgia Portal ................................................................................................................ 11 Class of 1970 Notice......................................................................................................... 11 Memorials ......................................................................................................................... 11

In This Issue: