LogBook 2013

THE LOG BOOK
Fall 2012 - Spring 2013
University of Virginia
NAVAL ROTC
Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps
Honor | Courage | Commitment
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Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps 2012 - 2013
UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA
Table of Contents
H Commanding Officers Address............................................................4 H Unit Staff..................................................................................................5 H Fall 2012 Battalion Commanding Officers Message..........................6 H Spring 2013 Battalion Commanding Officers Message....................7 H Battalion Staff..........................................................................................8 H Welcome Aboard....................................................................................9 H Farewell to GySgt Salazar.....................................................................10 H 1/C Cruise..............................................................................................11 H 1/C Nursing Cruise..............................................................................12 H 2/C Cruise..............................................................................................13 H Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center..........................14 H Cortramid..............................................................................................15 H 3/C Nursing Cruise..............................................................................16 H O-Academy...........................................................................................17 H Orientation Week 2012........................................................................18 H Fall Field Exercise (FEX).....................................................................20 H Navy Birthday Celebration..................................................................21 H Nurse Corps Symposium.....................................................................22 H Family Weekend...................................................................................23 H 237th Marine Corps Birthday Ball.....................................................24 H Toys For Tots.........................................................................................25 H USNA Leadership Conference............................................................26 H Guest Speakers......................................................................................27 H Tri-Service Events.................................................................................28 H Dining Out............................................................................................29 H Villanova Drill Competition...............................................................30 H Navy DEEG-Ball: Philanthropy Dodgeball Tournament................31 H Dining In...............................................................................................32 H Day In The Life of a 4/C Midshipman...............................................33 H Day In The Life of a 3/C Midshipman...............................................34 H Day In The Life of a 2/C Midshipman...............................................35 H Day In The Life of a 1/C Midshipman...............................................36 H Marine Option Platoon........................................................................37 H Nurse Corps Society.............................................................................38 H Midshipmen Bible Study.....................................................................39 H Lunch with the Lieutenants.................................................................40 H Battalion Intramural Sports and Physical Training.........................41 H Midshipmen Around the World.........................................................42 H Our Academic Diversity......................................................................43 H MIDN Around Grounds......................................................................44 H Advice from 1/C Midshipmen............................................................46 H Farewell Class of 2013..........................................................................48 H Commissioning Congratulations.......................................................49
UVA NROTC Battalion 2012 - 2013
Honor | Courage | Commitment
UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA NAVAL ROTC

Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps 2012 - 2013 Captain T.M. Cashman H Commanding Officer
UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA NROTC
2012 - 2013 H THE LOG BOOK
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Commanding Officers Address Captain T.M. Cashman, USN

and swear to support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies foreign and domestic, in front of family, friends and the entire NROTC Staff. These words carry an incredible amount of responsibility that may not be fully appreciated among our soon to be Ensigns; but will serve as the backbone of many decisions that are either made on their behalf or by them in the coming months and years while serving this great nation. The young men and women who will be commissioned on 18 May 2013 are exceptionally John Weisskopf, Scott Blaha and Robert Mills); 2 midshipmen selected for Nuclear Power School who will serve on nuclear-powered submarines (MIDN Garrett Greensmith and Peter Lai-Lepage); 3 midshipmen selected to be Navy Nurses (MIDN Caroline ODwyer, Tiffany Torres and Laila Cruz); 1 midshipmen was selected for EOD (Explosive Ordinance Disposal MIDN Colin Maloney); and 1 selected to serve in Yokosuka, Japan as a Surface Warfare Officer (MIDN Alex Clemmer). It has been an honor watching these young men and women mature over the past year and I have no doubt they are ready to SERVE!
UNIT STAFF| |NROTC| |UVA
s I reflect upon the past year on the Grounds of UVA, I am humbled at all the battalion has accomplished, the pride they show in the NROTC Unit, and the enthusiasm they have for their role as soon-to-be officers in the service to their country! Myself and my entire staff are blessed to have the opportunity to mentor, lead, and train some of the most talented young men and women this country has to offer. In just a few short weeks, 11 anxious midshipmen will stand on the North steps of the Rotunda on the historic
Commanding Officer Professor of Naval Science
CAPT Mike Cashman
Executive Officer Assoc. Prof. of Naval Science
CDR Mike Kunkel
Marine Officer Instructor Battalion Staff Advisor
Maj David Wright
Grounds of the University of Virginia
In closing, I want to thank an incredible staff of professional officers, enlisted and civilians. Their collective enthusiasm and commitment to this unit cannot be matched, and I greatly appreciate all they have done to better prepare the midshipmen under their charge for the talented midshipmen capable responsibilities that lie ahead. of handling the challenges that I look forward to meeting the await them; I am extremely confident they will make us all parents, family members and friends of each and every midshipman proud! during my time as commanding The UVA NROTC Battalion is officer. If you ever have a question, proud to commission the please dont hesitate to e-mail me following 1/C midshipmen at tmc2p@virginia.edu; call me and wish them "fair winds directly at (434) 924-0972 or stop by and following seas! We have Maury Hall. 4 midshipmen who were selected to train in Pensacola, Florida to become Naval Aviators (MIDN Julia Freeburg,
Asst. Prof. of Naval Science Submarine Officer Instructor
LT Joseph Anglin
Asst. Prof. of Naval Science Aviation Officer Instructor
LT Clifford May
Asst. Prof. of Naval Science Surface Warfare Officer Instructor
LT William Golden
SSgt Charlie Coulter

Asst. Marine Officer Instructor
Connie McGowan
Administration
John Cochran
Supply
Unit Staff 2012-2013

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Battalion Commanding Officers Message Fall 2012

by MIDN 1/C Freeburg
Battalion Commanding Officers Message Spring 2013

by MIDN 1/C Weisskopf
his quote by motivational speaker Art Turock is the spirit I tried to set when I took command as the Spring semester 2013 battalion commander. I brought back the word for the semester this semester with commitment. From no position in the battalion does one get to see the level of commitment that everyone in the battalion puts out than mine. I can point to specific examples such as the outstanding performance of the platoon commanders OPORDERs or the exceptional PRT scores, but to truly capture the sense of commitment I have seen in our battalion is impossible to capture in this short address.
his fall was another busy semester at Mr. Jefferson's University. Almost every upperclass midshipman returned to grounds early to welcome our new group of 4/C to Orientation Week. Enduring seven challenging days, the 23 new arrivals bonded as a class and emerged ready for the demanding life of a midshipman. While the 4/C wored hard, arriv the real heroes were the 2/C and 3/C who led as troop handlers, taught drill, or worked behind the scenes for a flawless week. As my classmates and I remarked throughout the week, your spirit and effort in those long hours made Maury Hall an incredible team-focused atmosphere above anything we'd seen in our time here, and set the tone for the rest of a positive semester.
After O-Week, the highlights of the semester were several Hold yourself responsible for a higher successful Operation Orders, standard than anybody else expects of planned and executed by each you. Never excuse yourself. Never pity platoon. MIDN Chang's platoon PT and has helped build a new yourself. Be a hard master to yourselfplanned an exciting fall Field model of mentorship from the LTs. and be lenient to everybody else. Exercise: the Confidence and SSgt Coulter, our new Assistant Leadership Reaction courses at Marine Officer Instructor, sets high Fort Pickett, VA were memorable challenges for standards for military conduct and discipline, but also all. MIDN Senerchia ensured a warm reception helps us learn the value of the junior officer-staff NCO for all of our families during Family Wekend, relationship. showcasing the many societies and activities of the battalion. He also later led a successful Serving as Battalion Commander has truly been my toy drive in support of the local Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots. MIDN Taylor and Baldwin greatest honor here at the unit. I have learned a great helped uphold time-honored traditions at deal from all of the midshipmen in the battalion, and at the unit, planning our Navy and Marine say with great sincerity that I appreciate the Corps Birthday celebrations. For the first effort you all put into this program. There time in recent memory, the Navy is a special bond between members of included alumni, parents, and this midshipmen family that I have not and benefactors of the unit. MIDN found equaled anywhere else at the Baldwins thorough planning ensured University. We all make mistakesthe the most successful Marine Corps important thing is that we learn as we Birthday Ball Ive seen in my time at move forward. I hope you will take the unit. to heart a lesson I learned from our former GySgt Salazar: Its called The fall also saw the resurecction of the Leadership Laboratory because its your "Physical Training Instructor position; chance to experiment on each other MIDN Weisskopf and Bessette brought before you get to the Fleet. Youre supposed a new level of rigor and quality to Battalion to make mistakes. PT. Other new additions included two new Thank you to my staff for their friendship and members of Unit Staff. LT Golden drives the battalion's dedication, and to members of Unit Staff for their mentorship.
Theres a difference between interest and commitment. When youre interested in doing something, you do it only when circumstance permit. When youre committed to something, you accept no excuses, only results. -Art Turock
Tuesday and Thursday morning drill periods were run efficiently and effectively this semester due to the hard work and coordination of MIDN Maloney. Our two physical training instructors, MIDN Coryell and Van Beek, worked with LT Golden to run a successful remedial and battalion physical training regimen. This, along with individual commitment to physical excellence culminated in everyone passing the PRT with most performing well above the standards. Thursday mornings consisted of stimulating and informative briefings from some highly qualified individuals. To name a few, we were a able to have a discussion with former Wahoo RADM Donegan, incredibly well received finance and Middle East briefings, a women in the military panel, and Dean Groves alwaysenjoyed discussion on University structure and status. Our battalion enjoyed a night of camaraderie and traditions with our first dining-out. MIDN Cypher did an
outstanding job in organizing this truly entertaining event. The Tri-service competition was brought back by joint efforts between MIDN Freeburg and representatives from Army and Air Force. Of course NROTC brought home the first place trophy, as anyone would expect. When April came around our drill teams headed up to Philadelphia for the Villanova University Drill Competition MIDN Tarmann did a fantastic job organizing the logistics, and our inspection team ended up taking third place. On April 20th, two platoons worth of work over the semester culminated in our first ever joint Delta Gamma Sorority-NROTC philanthropy dodgeball tournament and another well executed and entertaining 1/C dining-in. It has truly been an honor to serve as the Spring semester 2013 Battalion Commander. I owe all the success of this semester to an extremely competent staff and commitment from everyone in the battalion. To the battalion, you should all feel incredibly proud of the great traditions and history you come from among everything else you have accomplished. There are some truly amazing people in this battalion, and I cannot wait to serve in the fleet with each and every one of you.
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BATTALION STAFF
BNCO: MIDN 1/C Freeburg BNXO: MIDN 1/C Greensmith BNMC: MIDN 2/C Warner N3 (Ops): MIDN 1/C Lai-LePage N4 (Supply) / N5 (Future Plans): MIDN 1/C Cruz
FALL SEMESTER 2012
Welcome Aboard Staff Sergeant Coulter

by MIDN 2/C Donaldson
Staff Sergeant Coulter joined the UVA NROTC Unit in August after training Marine officer candidates in Quantico, VA. Staff Sergeant Coulter has served in the Marine Corps since July 1999, when he enlisted as a Motor Vehicle Operator and went through recruit training at MCRD San Diego. After completing MCT and MOS school, he reported to 2nd Battalion, 10th Marines, Battery F, Camp Lejeuene, NC, and some short months later, his unit was sent to Salmon, Idaho to fight wildfires. As a part of the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, his unit deployed as a part of OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM. Having also participated in OPERATION DYNAMIC REPSONSE in Kosovo, and OPERATION SOUTHERN WATCH, SSgt Coulter was again deployed in 2003 during OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM to reinforce Task Force Tarawa in An Nasiriyah, Najaf, Al Kut, and many other Iraqi cities. He reported to his next unit in July 2003, H&S Company, Camp H.M. Smith, Hawaii. While serving as a Motor Vehicle Operator, he also became the Color Sergeant for Marine Forces Pacific. This duty entailed the honors of conducting Repatriation of Remains, Honor Cordons, Parades, and other ceremonies. SSgt Coulter was assigned to Drill Instructor School, Parris Island, SC, in September 2005. As a Drill Instructor, Senior Drill Instructor, and Martial Arts Instructor at 1st Battalion, Recruit Training Regiment, Company A, he trained 7 separate platoons. In 2009, he returned to Afghanistan as a part of OPERATION MOSHTARAK in Marjah, Afghanistan. In 2011, he was deployed again, serving as Patrol Leader and conducting over 120 Combat Logistics Patrols to over 20 Forward Operating Bases, Combat Outposts, and Patrol Bases. Since arriving in August from training officer candidates, SSgt Coulter has seamlessly assumed his duties and responsibilities, while establishing strong working relationships with midshipmen. His hard-working attitude and personal guidance will unquestionably strengthen the UVA NROTC training environment.
Alpha Company COCO: MIDN 1/C Torres CPO: MIDN 2/C Cypher 1st PLT CDR: MIDN 2/C Chang 2nd PLT CDR: MIDN 2/C Baldwin
Bravo Company COCO: MIDN 1/C ODwyer CPO: MIDN 2/C Ballato 1st PLT CDR: MIDN 2/C Senerchia 2nd PLT CDR: MIDN 2/C Taylor
SPRING SEMESTER 2013

BNCO: MIDN 1/C Weisskopf BNXO: MIDN 1/C Mills BNMC: MIDN 2/C Gillooly N3 (Ops): MIDN 1/C Maloney N4 (Supply) / N5 (Future Plans): MIDN 2/C Bessette
Alpha Company COCO: MIDN 1/C Blaha CPO: MIDN 3/C Fridley 1st PLT CDR: MIDN 2/C Donaldson 2nd PLT CDR: MIDN 2/C Tarmann Bravo Company COCO: MIDN 1/C Clemmer CPO: MIDN 3/C Foley, K 1st PLT CDR: MIDN 2/C Holy 2nd PLT CDR: MIDN 2/C Cypher
Lieutenant Golden
by MIDN 3/C Foley, M
Welcome aboard Lieutenant Golden! Lieutenant Golden grew up in Freehold, New Jersey, just outside of New York City. The terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001 hit close to home for him, and led him to join the military to serve his country. Consequently, he enrolled in the United States Naval Academy in June 2004 and graduated in May 2008 with a major in Mathematics and a minor in Spanish. After graduation, he reported to the USS LAKE CHAMPLAIN (CG 57) in San Diego, CA where he served as the Electrical Officer and Training Officer. On board the USS LAKE CHAMPLAIN, Lieutenant Golden made a deployment to the Western Pacific and Arabian Gulf. In August 2010, he reported to the USS INDEPENDENCE (LCS 2) where he served as the Weapons Officer and Navigator. Lieutenant Golden finished his tour aboard the USS INDENDENCE in August 2012 and reported to the NROTC unit of the University of Virginia shortly after. He serves as the Surface Warfare Officer Instructor and Assistant Professor of Naval Science, teaching Naval Operations and Seamanship and Navigation. Lieutenant Golden hopes to teach midshipmen what the Surface Warfare community has to offer and advise and advocate for midshipmen in his capacity as a Year Group Advisor. Already, he has been a driving force behind improving our Battalion PTs to make them more effective and has established a great rapport with midshipmen. The University of Virginia NROTC unit is very fortunate to have Lieutenant Golden, and we all look forward to his continued presence and leadership.
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Farewell to Gunnery Sergeant Salazar

by MIDN 1/C Maloney
1/c Cruise
by MIDN 1/C Clemmer
he purpose of the 1st class cruise is to ready rising 4th year midshipmen to commission as Ensigns, and is mandatory for all midshipmen. They will typically shadow a junior officer (JO), ranging from O-1 to O-3, for the duration of the cruise. It is an opportunity to better understand the role of a JO in the fleet and in the desired community.
Marine Option Platoon in particular benefited from his guidance, and learned from his example. Midshipmen also enjoyed the support of a staff member during events outside of normal battalion activities. His grilling was met with welcome mouths at UVA football game tailgates and Unit socials. He also loved to display his competiveness and athleticism during intramural sports, specifically with the softball and soccer teams. In addition, together with MIDN Weisskopf, he started the groundfighting club. His experience as a MCMAP Instructor was a great resource during those sessions. Gunnery Sergeant Salazar oversaw the successful graduation of four classes of midshipmen from Orientation Week. From his very first Orientation Week to his last, GySgt Salzar pushed midshipmen to discover their strengths and improve on thier weaknesses. The midshipmen of this battalion will remember GySgt for his presence and his devotion to the ideals of this institution. Farewell, GySgt Salazar, and good luck in San Diego!
For my cruise, I chose to do an extended submarine cruise. I spent 42 days underway on the USS Nebraska (SSBN-739). The Nebraska is an Ohio-class Trident missile submarine. Typically, these submarines, also known as Boomers, operate on roughly a 90-day rotation with a Blue and Gold crew. My time onboard was spent on the second half of this period with the Blue Crew. During my sta on-board, I was introduced to many aspects of the Sub community. Normal operational days were 18 hours, instead of 24 hours. Most of my time was spent in Control, where I worked on qualifications for the Fire Control, Sonar, and Navigation stations; I even had the chance to operate the periscope. Maneuvering was the other place I spent my time. This is wheremost junior officers stand watch, since it is the first required qualification to earn their dolphins. Other exciting opportunities I had the chance to participate in included midshipmen firedrills, security drills, and even being part of a medical team for a ship-wide fire drill. Our timing on-board allowed the midshipmen of to witness Halfway Night, a celebration for bing halfway through the patrol and see the procedures for coming home from a patrol. Submarine life revolves around extremes. During my free time, I learned how to play Cribbage with the CO and XO, had movie nights, and worked out. The most important thing I learned was to always be engaged no matter what you are doing. Staying active and always being around made the experience much more worhtwhile. GO BIG RED!!!
his fall, the University of Virginia NROTC Unit bid farewell to its previous Assistant Marine Officer Instructor (AMOI), Gunnery Sergeant Alfonso Salazar. GySgt Salazar is an infantryman by trade and has returned to lead Marines as a platoon sergeant. He is currently with the combined antiarmor team (CAAT) with Weapons Company of 3rd Battalion, 1st Marines. During his last semester at the University, GySgt Salazar completed the advanced course for GySgts in Quantico, VA. Unsurprisingly, he returned to the Unit with honors as the Honor Graduate. GySgt Salazar set a high standard for midshipmen from day one, and was never afraid to pass on personal anecdotes to help midshipmen learn from his successes and failures. He was the consummate professional who liked to say that he learned way more from MIDN than we learned from him. He will forever be remembered by those at the Unit for his genuine intensity and compassion. The
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1/c Nursing Cruise
2/c Summer Cruise

econd-class summer cruise is a chance to spend more time with a particular warfare community and get a good sense of what daily life is like in the Navy, particularly from an enlisted sailors perspective. It is the last cruise you go on before starting the service selection process at the end of your third year, so it can also help you decide which path you want to (or dont want to) follow in the Navy. This past summer, Midshipman 2/C Bessette was lucky enough to be assigned to an aircraft carrier, the USS George Washington (CVN-73). He first flew to Okinawa, Japan, a week before reporting in, since he was given permission to spend a week visiting with friends. He flew to the carrier on a C-2 Greyhound and got to land on it at sea! His assigned running-mate was in the V-2 division of Air Department, so he learned a lot about the catapult and arresting gear. While onboard, he was able to become flight deck qualified, allowing him to be on the flight deck by himself. The V-2 division was even able to outfit him with flight deck geara green tutleneck, camo pants, a float coat, and a cranial (essentially a helmet with hearing protection). That didnt stop him from exploring the rest of the ship, though, and taking full advantage of the diversity a carrier has to offer. Some highlights included spending almost an hour and a half as the Conning Officer during flight operations and while the CO was on the bridge (understandably a nervewracking experience), shooting the .50 caliber while flying in a helicopter, and doing some minor training (fast-roping and rappelling) the EOD team onboard. Once his cruise was over, the midshipmen were catapulted off the carrier in a C-2 and landed at Osan Air Base in South Korea. From Osan, he was able to take day trips to visit the DeMilitarized Zone and to Seoul, before finally flying out of Incheon. While getting to see two different countries on cruise is certainly not the typical experience, there always seems to
by MIDN 1/C ODwyer
idshipman Torres, Cruz, and I reported to the quarterdeck of Portsmouth Naval Hospital on a hot afternoon in June, looking out of place in our summer whites as we scanned the area for anybody who might be able to help us. We were quickly spotted by the nurse in charge of our
by MIDN 2/C Tarmann

be someone who gets lucky, and it is certainly an experience to take full advantage of! While Bessette was exploring the Pacific from the surface, I got to explore its depths on the ballistic missile submarine USS Louisiana, stationed out of Bangor, Washington, along with six other female midshipmen. The USS Lousisiana was scheduled to receive its first female officers in the fall of 2012, so we were the guinea pigs! After spending two days getting to explore Seattle and some of the facilities on base, we met the boat in the Strait of Juan de Fuca on a tugboat. We wouldnt see the sun again (except through a periscope) for the next 21 days. Having so much time underway allowed me to find out whether I could handle being underwater for so long (its really not bad!), and made me feel more like a part of the community, which is what initially attracted me to the submarine force. Surprisingly, after a week and a half, watching movies, playing cards, eating and sleeping, does in fact get old; so, I decided to take advantage of the experience to work on some qualifications. I first set my sights on qualifying as a passive broadband sonar operator. I had to read a lot of manuals about sonar for the knowledge portion, delighted to see my Environmental Science major actually come in handy. Then, I spent several watch sections with the wonderful people of watch section 3 to get some hands-on learning. In the sonar room, its dark, and staring at a screen of little green and black lines for six hours can be pretty exhausting, so its the camaraderie between the crew that keeps everyone going. The conversations ranged from the silly and ridiculous to the very serious, but they were never boring! Simultaneously, I started working on my helmsman/planesman qualification. These are the people who, by controlling the angle of the fairwater planes, stern planes, and rudder, effectively drive the boat by controlling depth and direction. I could easily spend four hours driving
summer training, who gave us a warm reception. We spent the morning talking about Navy nursing and the hospital with her and had a tour of the grounds in the afternoon. The next day, we got right down to business. We worked three to four twelve-hour shifts per week with an assigned nurse. Every nurse that I worked with was extremely helpful and welcoming. Doctors, corpsmen, and nurses all went out of their way to ensure that the other midshipmen and I were having a positive experience. The timing of our cruise could not have been better. Not only was the weather perfect, allowing for excursions to Virginia Beach but the Tall Ships Festival" was also in town. An annual festival that makes stops around the world, the Tall Ships Festival is a gathering of hundreds of beautiful "Age of Sail" ships and yachts. They stayed in Norfolk for about a week, accompanied by a lively carnival. In addition, several foreign frigates and cruisers were in port at Norfolk and were open to the public for tours. The hospital was very nice and the city of Norfolk had a lot going on, but it was the people that made my experience truly memorable. I am very appreciative of the time that the staff at Portsmouth took out of their busy days to teach me. I consider myself lucky to have been assigned Portsmouth as my first duty station to work among such people, and I look forward to reporting in this summer!
12 UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA NROTC
without even realizing it because it really is a pretty fun job, and the diving officer makes sure you dont do anything wrong. Emergency blow and emergency dive drills were my favorite because you get to push the wheel all the way down (it moves towards and away from you in addition to left and right, unlike a car steering wheel). And, the best part was that now I can say, for the rest of my life, that I could drive a nuclear submarine before I could drive a car (I dont have my license). Overall, while we both had atypical summer cruise experiences, the take-aways are pretty universal. We both were amazed at how such complicated systems are able to run so smoothly and gained a deep respect for the men and women who make that happen every day in the Navy. Additionally, both of us loved and still keep in touch with our fellow midshipmen from cruise, a testament to the closeness of bonds formed underway.
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Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center

by MIDN 2/C Donaldson
he Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center is located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains in Bridgeport, CA. While our Navy classmates go on cruise after their second year, Marine Option midshipmen get to spend 10 days training at MWTC. This training included everything from hiking up 10,000 feet, conducting river crossings
day, we did 1-mile SKED races, which showed us the proper procedures for evacuating injured Marines off a mountain. The next morning, we were up at 0330 to get chow and begin our hike up to LZ Penguin. Climbing from roughly 8,000 ft at the Barracks to 10,000 at LZ Penguin, each Marine Option felt the effects of the long hike and the high altitude. The experience of hiking what seemed to be a vertical slope at Mean Peak and trying to shave at 0500 in 15 degree weather accented by 30 mph winds certainly tested our character and desire to be Marines. For the next four days, we stayed at LZ Penguin, conducting land navigation and learning essential survival skills from MARSOC, Recon, and Scout Sniper Marines. These are only a few of the training evolutions that took place, and each was more awesome and challenging than the next. I was also lucky enough to spend two days as 1st Platoons Platoon Commander. It was a harrowing experience that taught me some key lessons in leadership and command. The ultimate takeaway for me though, was a recognition of the quality and character of my fellow Marine Option midshipmen from units around the country and the Marines who comprised the training staff. Each of us came from different hometowns and backgrounds, yet we each shared similar motivations, mindsets, and haricuts. It didn't take but a few hours for it to seem like we had known each other for years. Overall, the experience left me equipped with new training and excited to serve with such amazing people as a United States Marine.
CORTRAMID
by MIDN 3/C Novack
This past summer, I participated in my first Summer Cruise: CORTRAMID. Short for Career Orientation Training for Midshipmen, CORTRAMID is a chance for midshipmen, over the course of four weeks, to take an in-depth look at four career paths: Submarine Warfare, Aviation, Surface Warfare, and the Marines. Unsure of what I wanted to do in the Navy, I had an open mind from the start. Week One was with the submarine community, so after arriving in Norfolk, I was hopping on a plane and heading down to Kings Bay, Georgia. There, we did drills for a few days before boarding a submarine. On-board, I met some of the brightest, and at the same time most relaxed, people in the Navy. Before CORTRAMID, I thought of subs as dark and small and not worth considering. Now, the submarine path is near the top of my list. The next week was aviation, which was a lot of briefs and swimming
training. But eventually, we all got to take part in what Aviation Week is all about: the ride in the T-34. Most of the pilots gave us a wild ride of loops and tricks. Some, mine included, handed over control of the aircraft for a while, so that I actually flew the plane. It was an awesome experience that Ill remember forever. After aviation, it was off to Camp Lejeune to spend time with the Marines. This was not my favorite weeknot a moment of downtime, and lots of marching with heavy gear under a July sun in North Carolina. Many really enjoyed it, and no one left without a much better understanding of what it means, and what it takes, to be a Marine. The final week for me was Surface Week. I got underway on the USS Kearsarge for a couple days, and got to see what the day-to-day life of the crew was like. And while it
was not all standing on the bow with a telescope in hand, peering into the horizon, it was an enjoyable experience nonetheless. I believe my future path will be with the Surface community, and so I took a lot away from that week. CORTRAMID is not all work and no play. The weekends are free, and you get to meet new people from ROTC units across the country. My friends and I spent the weekends bowling, shooting pool, exercising, going to the beach, and just relaxing. CORTRAMID is a bit tailored each community is trying to catch the eyes of midshipmen. They wont show you the worst moments or the boring jobs. But for the midshipman who explores and takes advantage of the time underway to interact with the crew, CORTRAMID is a chance to see what things are like in the Big Navy and see what path is right for you.
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in glacial runoff, climbing and repelling sheer cliff faces, and learning some basic land navigation and survival skills. On our second full day in Bridgeport, we hiked form the barracks located in Pickle Meadow to the Lower Base Camp, where we conducted repelling, climbing, and river crossing operations. The following
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Enlisted Nursing Cruise
by MIDN 3/C Redman
O-Academy
by MIDN 3/C Fridley
For me and other 3/C Midshipmen, it was strange to be elevated to a position like Troop Handler when only a few months earlier we were 4/C Midshipmen ourselves. Spending a number of 2-3 hour sessions with Gunnery Sergeant Salazar prepared us all for the responsibility. As an experienced Drill Instructor, he provided us with the dos and donts of this type of position. By the time the new Midshipmen arrived, we felt well prepared for the job. While the Troop Handlers received their training, other midshipmen prepared for their various roles as well. The Drill Deck went over everything they would teach during the week. Briefers conducted practice briefs that they would give during the week. Our battalion leaders looked over schedules and plans to ensure that everything would run smoothly. O-Academy was a busy couple of days, but the preparation definitely paid off in a successful O-Week.
efore the new 4/C report in the middle of August for O-Week, upperclass midshipmen are already in Charlottesville and Maury Hall preparing for the incoming class at O-Academy. For these few days, everybodys focus is on making sure that Maury Hall is ready to accommodate the new midshipmen and that everyone is properly trained to carry out their O-Week duties. In order to house the twenty or so Midshipmen that will be coming in, Maury Hall has to undergo some changes. Every year we clear out two classrooms on the main floor to serve as the berthing (sleeping area) for the 4/C. Its an all-hands-on-deck effort to move chairs and desks downstairs and then replace them with cots, foot lockers, sleeping bags, and seabags with all of the 4/Cs new uniform items. Aside from logistics, O-Academy is also meant to ensure that all of the returning Midshipmen will be able to successfully carry out their O-Week duties. After a pizza dinner the first night, we got off to a running start with PRT early the next morning to make sure that everyone has maintained a high level of physical fitness and that everyone will set the example for 4/C during the PT exercises conducted for O-Week. Among the busiest people during O-Week were the Troop Handlers. We were all a couple days away from controlling every minute of the day for a group of twenty people. This was a large responsibility that required a significant amount of training.
ROTC Nurse Option midshipmen have a different summer training experience than their peers. Instead of going on CORTRAMID, we spend a month on a ship, following an enlisted running mate, getting a crash course in all things Navy and handson experience. I was assigned to the USS Peleliu (LHA-5) an amphibious assault ship fondly referred to as 40,000 tons of steel and sexappeal! The Peleliu provides transport and support for the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, and is also the flagship for the Commander of Amphibious Squadron Three. Thus, the Peleliu is equipped with hangar bays to accommodate Landing Craft Utility (LCUs) and aircraft, a huge gym, ships store, and living accommodations for the ships crew of 2,500 and the 15th MEU. For me though, the best part of the Peleliu was her fully equipped medical department 4 operating rooms, an intensive care unit, 100 bed sickbay ward, mass triage
room, dental department, and radiology and pharmacy capabilities; I was in the right place! During our two underway periods, I learned quickly to adjust to shipboard life. With my corpsman running mate, I supervised flight and well deck operations, stood watch in battle dress stations (BDS) awaiting casualties from training evolutions, participated in an underway replenishment (UNREP), witnessed a Sea Whiz demonstration, stood in formation through a frocking ceremony and change of command, and experienced a POTUS operation. All the while, I conversed with the sailors and marines around me, hearing their personal stories, family situations, and insights on their role in the Navys greater mission. These experiences gave me an incredible contextual understanding to apply to my future co-workers and patients. As a nurse option, the clinical
experience I gained from cruise was unmatched. Each morning I would assist my running mate with sick call patients who presented a wide variety of ailments from psychological distress to injuries. My running mate taught me important clinical skills like taking a patients vitals, administering an IV, drawing blood, and proper sterilization technique. I was able to administer injections, perform health checks on ships spaces, and maintain medical records. One of my best cruise experiences was as a double hand amputee in a mass casualty triage drill. These clinical skills will give me a leg up as I begin my nursing clinicals back at UVA. I am so grateful for all of the opportunities and experiences that the USS Peleliu provided me. The insight I gained about leadership, nursing, and the Navy far exceeded my expectations. I am so excited now more than ever to serve as a Navy Nurse!
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Orientation Week
rientation Week was a unique experience that allowed all of the 4/C midshipmen to form a bond of friendship, learn integral Navy and Marine Corps leadership traits and principles, and overall, become acclimated to the life of a Naval ROTC midshipman at the University of Virginia. The experience was a physical and mental challenge that tested our dedication to the program. Although it was difficult, it was an exciting week that allowed all of us to take away important knowledge that we will need to utilize throughout our time in the battalion and when we are in the Navy and Marine Corps Throughout the week, many of us continued to look forward to graduation day, however, as we look back now, we all recall great memories. The afternoon of day one began with the upper class midshipmen challenging our ability to maintain bearing. As they entered the room we were sitting in, they began yelling out orders. I just remember standing at attention focused completely on the wall in front of
by MIDN 4/C Berger
Overall, Orientation Week was aJUHDW experience that showed the curUHQW& midshipmen what it takes toEHDSDUW RI89$1527&0,'1&&R[
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the PRT and PFT tests, and when we were woken up each morning. These three activities were some of the main moments that created an immediate bond between the 4/C. These experiences were what prepared me most for my life as a Marine me most for my life as a Marine-Option midshipman. My personal experience differed slightly from that of everyone else. As the only 4/C MarineOption midshipman in the battalion, members of the staff and the upper class midshipmen constantly demanded more of added me. Luckily, I didn't receive as much me. The attention as some of the other midshipmen had on the afternoon of day one. This exercise was what made me locked on for the rest of the week. Truthfully, I was unaware of the level of intensity of Orientation Week. However, as it began, I was excited for the competitive environment. The most competitive environments were the drill-deck with the drillmaster, Midshipman 2/C Baldwin,
pressure made me more eager to succeed. Going into the run portion of the PFT I knew I had to push myself. Twelve laps around the track was a painful, lonely run. However, what truly allowed me to succeed was the support from fellow midshipmen. As fatigue was setting in, I could hear my running mate, Ben Lalor, cheering me on. Also, upper class midshipmen ran alongside me to push me. This is when I knew I was about to be a part of a battalion filled with people of great character.
Overall, Orientation Week was a great experience that showed the current 4/C midshipmen what it takes to be a part of the University of Virginias Naval ROTC Unit. It was a rigorous, demanding and challenging week that tested all of us mentally and physically. When graduation day arrived, we felt proud to put on our whites and show our friends and family what we had accomplished in one short week. We all knew we were about to train to become a part of a community of courageous and selfless individuals. Orientation Week was what prepared us all to become Naval ROTC midshipmen.
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5/1/13 9:43 PM
Fall Field Exercise (FEX)

by MIDN 2/C Chang
Navy Birthday Celebration

veryone looks forward to that one special day every year: cake candles, partying...no, not your birthday, its the United States Navys birthday! On October 13th, 1775 the Continental Congress established our Navy. At UVA, we honor this special day with the Navy Birthday Celebration. This year, the event was conducted differently than in previous years. Instead of a sit-down dinner with just our unit and various special guests, it was a cocktail hour at nearby Balkan Bistro with heavy hors doeuvres and midshipmen were allowed to bring dates or friends. The atmosphere was conversational and relaxed as midshipmen had the opportunity to mingle with each other and members of the community. Waiters roved around all night with appetizers that included mini quiche, cheeses, and sausages. Although we went in a new direction this year, the traditional cake-cutting ceremony was not forgotten. The ceremony consists of the oldest and youngest sailor cutting the cake with a sword, and our very own MIDN 4/C Guinn received this honor as the youngest sailor present. This ritual is symbolic of both the old and new traditions we have in the Navy; we don't want to lose the deeprooted traditions, yet we welcome
n 22 September 2012, the battalion executed its annual Fall Field Exercise (FEX) at Fort Pickett in Blackstone, Virginia. The purpose of the FEX was to develop confidence and leadership as well as building camaraderie within the battlaion This year's Fall FEX had two main events: the Confidence Course and the Leadership Reaction Course (LRC). The Confidence
By MIDN 3/C Van Beek
Course is a 2.5-mile long obstacle course designedto test a persons physical and mental capabilities by having them complete challenging and sometimes intimidating obstacles like the Confidence Climb" (an obstacle where a person has to climb up and over a tall vertical ladder) and the Tough One (here, a person must climb a rope, move across planks, climb up an A-frame and down a cargo net). The Confidence Course was conducted at the platoon level to build cohesion within the platoon and give platoon commanders and squad leaders a chance to further develop their leadership style. After having MREs for lunch, the battalion moved to the Leadership Reaction Course and was divided into fire teams of 4-5 midshipmen from all different classes. The course allowed everyone the chance to lead a fire team. Every station involved a difficult task
with a variety of obstacles, time constraints, and limited supplies. These tasks ranged from moving ammunition cans over a body of water, using only barrels and a few planks, to crossing a "minefield." The purpose of these stressful and thought-provoking scenarios wasnt to see if the mission was accomplished, but to see how midshipmen responded as leaders in a demanding environment with subordinates to take care of. This years Fall Field Exercise was a huge success. A-1 Platoon was in charge of its planning, preparation, and execution. The entire Battalion enjoyed a day of PT, character and leadership building, MREs, and camaraderie- a good day for any midshipmen.
the younger generations of sailors and the new ideas they bring. As guests devoured their cake, the
One of the main highlights of the night was hearing from the Guest of Honor, Warrant Officer Renner. He began his career as an enlisted sailor, and went on to become a SEAL and to advance to the rank of Warrant Officer. Seeing personal photos and hearing stories about his time in combat nothing short of inspirational for all guest in attendance, especially our midshipmen with special warfare aspirations. The ceremony concluded with traditional toasts and the playing of "Anchors Aweigh. Then the evening drew to a close, and each person in attendance receive a scotch glass memento as a parting gift. The Navy Birthday Celebration was one of the highlights of Fall Semester!
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CNOs annual video speech was projected in the front of the venue. I loved watching the speech because of the renewed motivation and purpose I felt after hearing the words of such an accomplished Naval Officer.
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Nurse Corps Symposium

By MIDN 1/C Cruz
he Nurse Corps Symposium was hosted by Marquette Universitys NROTC unit from 09Nov-11Nov2012 with midshipmen from all around the country in attendance to learn more about the Navy Nurse Corps. This symposium was tremendously helpful because NROTC units do not have a nurse option staff member, which can make it hard for nursing midshipmen to learn what their lives will really be like. The director of the Navy Nurse Corps made a video specifically for the symposium telling us how excited she was that we were having it. Seven Nurse Corps Officers from around the country came to speak about their experiences. To me, the speeches by Ensign Gillette and and Nurse Corps Detailer Lieutenant especially who works at MIDN Cruz and I had the opportunity to meet nurse spoke about options from all over the country at the Navy Nursing just around the Symposium at Marquette University. MIDN 3/c Fuller care nurse who v a l u a b l e for our first duty stations. LCDR Hutchinson, an obstetrics nurse, talked about Duty Under Instructions (DUINS), a program that provides Navy funding for three years of graduate work in nursing, a great opportunity which I am certainly looking into. At the end of the briefs, there was a panel of all of the speakers for the midshipmen to ask questions and a catered dinner offered another opportunity for midshipmen to mingle and network. Midshipmen Fuller and I were very grateful to be the first from the UVA NROTC Unit to attend the symposium. The symposium is a great tool for nurse option midshipmen and I hope that our unit will continue to send representatives!
Family Weekend
by MIDN 3/C Orr
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ometimes its hard to explain exactly what we do in the NROTC program to family members, especially relatives with no military background. Family Weekend is a great way for families to come see what their kids have been doing during their time in the unit. The event is mostly geared toward parents of 4/c midshipmen, who get the chance to show off their new drill skills. This year my platoon was in charge of the event, so rather than having my parents come visit, I had the chance to work behind the scenes and see how the whole weekend was orchestrated.
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building. the chance to see Room and Ward Room, frequent midshipmen during the week.
makes Maury feel like more of a social place than an academic Parents also had the Computer study spots for
Commander (LCDR) Gomez were pertinent. ENS Gillette is a pediatric nurse Balboa Naval Hospital in San Diego. She a life as an ensign, which as a 1/C is corner for me! LCDR Gomez, a critical worked with the Marines, provided information on figuring out where to go
Oh hey, TJ. Even at Marquette, Mr. Jefferson makes an impact.
Most of the preparation for this event was done the morning of. We got food from the caterer, set up for the ceremony in the amphitheater, and prepared Maury Hall, the main NROTC building, for the incoming parents. Midshipmen gave tours to family members of the midshipmen. This gave parents and siblings the opportunity to look around the building where we all spend so much of our time. They got to see rooms such as the Navigation Room, where Naval Science classes are held, and the lounge, located in the basement. The lounge is a great place for midshipmen to nap on the couches or watch TV, and it
After the tours, the parents were moved to the amphitheater. MIDN Fuller sang the Star Spangled Banner, and other upper class midshipmen marched as the color guard while the fourth class drilled under the command of MIDN Baldwin. Parents now had the chance to see how their kids drill abilities had improved since they last saw them at the Orientation Week graduation ceremony. This was also many parents first time seeing their children march with rifles. The drill went well, and afterwards everyone was invited to the Ward Room afterwards for refreshments. Its really important for family members, parents especially, to know that their college students are being taken care of and are continuing to grow. Family Weekend not only educates them about the NROTC program as a whole, but also gives them the peace of mind of knowing that their student has a place where they belong. This year, the event was a major success with perfect weather, and the parents were impressed not only with their children, but with the unit as a whole.
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237th Marine Corps Birthday Ball

by MIDN 3/C Baldwin
n Friday, November 9th, UVA NROTC hosted its annual Marine Corps Birthday Ball in celebration of the 237th birthday of the Marine Corps. As in years past, this years Ball was held at King Family Vineyards in Crozet, VA. The Marine Corps Ball marks one of the few times each year that Naval ROTC staff, midshipmen, and active-duty and retired guests are able to gather together not only to pay tribute to the Marine Corps, but also to socialize outside of the unit. Midshipmen also bring dates, which allows our fellow students a peek into unit life. The evening began with a traditional cakecutting ceremony, the reading of General Lejuene's original birthday message, and remarks by the Guest of Honor, General Robert Robert Magnus. A UVA alumnus and a former Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps, General Magnus focused his speech on the Marine Corps
Toys For Tots
core values of Honor, Courage, and Commitment, and emphasized that, as future officers, the midshipmen owed these values to the men and women that they would one day command. Select midshipmen participated in this ceremony as the sword detail and cake escorts, and Colonel Larry Brown and Staff Sergeant Charlie Coulter rounded out the crew as the oldest and youngest Marines, respectively. Following the ceremony, everyone enjoyed a buffet dinner and a night of dancing.
children. Our battalion's participation in Toys for Tots to raise money and collect toys for the Charlottesville community has become a favorite unit tradition that not only supports a great cause, but also raises our morale. Many other organizations around grounds set up tables to raise money or tell their fellow students about an upcoming event, but I like to think we take it to a whole new level. At our table outside of Maury, we have Christmas carols blaring and midshipmen either in uniform or in costumeas Santa Claus or an elf. Midshipmen often pass their hour-long shifts away by inventing crazy slogans to yell out at passersby. Spread some cheer, donate to Toys for Tots here! Dont be a Grinch, help a kid in a pinch! And Donate to toys for tots, youll make a child smile lots and lots! were just a few of the perennial favorites. Some of our midshipmen in costumes have even been
by MIDN 2/C Senerchia
oys for Tots is a nation-wide annual toy drive, run by the United States Marine Corps Reserve, which seeks to help needy families achieve a sense of normalcy during the holiday season by providing toys for their
to donate, were spreading the word about Toys for Tots and Christmas joy within the UVA community. In addition to our usual table outside of Maury, this year we also collected donations at the Lighting of the Lawn, and set up a new table outside of Thornton Hall, with help from our future fellow officers from Air Force and Army ROTC.
COLLECTED!
100 TOYS & $2,600
Midshipmen also volunteered their weekends to set up a donation table at K-Mart. Thanks to everyones hard work, this year turned out to be a record success: over 100 toys and $2,600 were collected.
The Marine Corps Ball remains one of UVA NROTCs largest events, and thanks to the generosity of the King family and the hard work of several midshipmen and Unit staff, this years Ball went down as one more in a long line of successful celebrations of the history of the United States Marine Corps.
24 UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA NROTC
known to start dancing or singing carolsworking hard to earn every extra dollar from the occasional Ebenezer Scrooge. Even if people dont have cash or dont want
2012 - 2013 H THE LOG BOOK 25
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United States Naval Academy Leadership Conference

by MIDN 1/C ODwyer
director of the Stockdale Center for Ethical Leadership; LSU Coach Dale Brown (Basketball Coach Hall of Famer); Susan Chambers, Executive Vice President of Wal-Mart; Ronald Spears, Senior Executive Vice President of AT&T; and Navy Lieutenant Brad Snyder, Wounded Warrior, former EOD, and Paralympic gold medalist and swimmer. Lieutenant Brad Snyders talk, the last one of the conference, left the greatest impact on me. His inspirational story of tragedy, optimism, and strength is truly incredible and sets an example for all of us. It was a privilege to hear from leaders with such impressive resumes. In addition to the experience of the conference itself, I thoroughly enjoyed exploring the
he USNA Leadership Conference was a very educational and rewarding experience. The Naval Academy generously provided two other midshipmen and myself with lodging and food in Annapolis for the entire fourday event, along with a personal escort to show us around the Yard. We stayed at the Loews hotel with the other invitees of the conference midshipmen
The USNA Leadership Conference was a great way to meet other midshipmen and hear from great speakers and was a very rewarding experience. -MIDN 1/C Blaha
he battalion has had the opportunity to host many great guest speakers the course of the year. In the fall, guest speakers from a host of communities such as Submarine Warfare, Engineering Duty, and Surface Nuclear gave brief overviews of their respective community, the requirements, and the benefits of joining. Because unit staff only contains officers from unrestricted line communities, hearing from these more specialized communities was helpful in giving us a sense of the many paths we can take in the Navy and what is out there. Later in the fall semester, the battalion was pleased to welcome ADM John C. Harvey to the Charlottesville area after his retirement as the Commander of U.S. Fleet Forces Command. ADM Harvey spoke about leadership and the evolution of the Navy. He shared
Guest Speakers
by MIDN 4/C Unger
He discussed born and made leaders and discussed how we can all
do little things like staying informed and taking an interest in people to improve our leadership skills. Rear Admiral Kevin M. Kid Donegans visit was a highlight of the spring semester drill periods. RADM Donegan is Director of Warfare Integration and he spoke to the battalion on the future of the Navy. One of the best parts about guest speakers is the opportunity to ask questions at the end of their brief and at the bagel breakfast in the Wardroom following drill.
and leadership students from around the country and the world. The structure of the conference consisted of lectures from prominent business and military leaders in the morning, group discussion or Yard tours in the afternoon, and a nice dinner with additional speakers in the evening. The speakers at the conference included Louis Freeh, former director of the CIA; Colonel Arthur Athens,
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Naval Academy and the city of Annapolis. The college and the city were very old, beautiful, and rooted in naval traditions and history. I had a great time meeting the other midshipmen and students and learning from the incredible and diverse lecturers at the event. The USNA Leadership Conference is a very worthwhile experience and I would encourage any midshipman with the opportunity to attend to do so.
In addition to hearing from current and former Naval officers, we also had the opportunity to hear the insights of civilian experts. In the fall, many of his experiences in the Navy, we welcomed Howard ranging from a being a midshipman Hoege, Assitant Dean of to being an Admiral, and reflected the Frank Batten School on how certain events during his of Public Policy at UVa career transformed him as a leader. speak about his combat A few midshipmen also had the experience in the Middle opportunity to attend a luncheon East as an Army officer. In where Admiral Harvey spoke as well addition to simply telling and interact with veterans in the us his stories, he gave us local community. hypothetical situations Just before Winter Break, the that challenged us to battalion had the privilege of think of how we would welcoming Master Chief Petty respond as leaders. In the Officer of the Navy (MCPON), spring semester, the Battalion had MCPON Michael D. Stevens to a guest lecture from an expert on discuss his views on leadership and Islam and the Middle East. This brief his path to becoming the MCPON. provided valuable background
The finance brief was a great learning experience on how to manage money effectively. Ms. Bonding shared with us the benefits of starting a Roth IRA early and I will definitely be looking in to creating one soon. -MIDN 3/C Foley
information on the history of Islam, its sects, and the evolution of radical Islam as well as resolving many common misconceptions. The numerous guest speakers the battalion has had the opportunity to host this year have given midshipmen great insight on the Navy that awaits after graduation.
We really appreciate the time and advice they have shared with us (and the relief from the usual GMTs)!
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Tri-Service Events
n todays military, our operations are guided by an idea of a Joint Strike Force. Though the branches of the military are separated in our roles, all three still work towards a common goal in defending the United States of America and support each other in every objective pursuant to that goal. Here at UVA, we clearly arent on the front lines working to directly protect the nation, but we also havent forgotten the importance of a joint military effort. Throughout the semester we have strived to work together with the ROTCs of the other branches in order to remind us under fire exercise, medley of partner exercises, stair sprints, and finally, pull-ups. Those who did not participate played an intense, service versus service paintball game in the woods of O-Hill. Afterwards all of the groups reunited at Nameless Field for matches of flag football and sand volleyball, but first Coach Mike London, the head coach of UVA Football, came to speak with us, giving an inspiring message about teamwork and dedication. Using football metaphors, he spoke to us about the importance of completing the task at hand and challenging ourselves, but urged us to ever forget the person next to us. He stressed that no matter whether
by MIDN 1/C Mills

see what each other unit was all about. We opened the day at 0900 with a Physical Training (PT) competition in which each unit put together their best, nearly herculean, PTers. The gruesome physical trial consisted of a push-up/sit-up challenge, mile run, a movement
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we're on the front lines of a war zone, flying recon, or launching jets off a U.S. Navy carrier, we are still a part of the same team and must strive to support one another. The football and volleyball games were ferocious as the spirit of competition and camaraderie fueled our thirst for victory because after all, whats the point in playing if youre not going to strive to win? Before we knew it, the day was over and cadets and midshipmen conversed over burgers, hotdogs, and cake while anxiously awaiting the results of the days competition. All waited in suspense as MIDN Freeburg, one of the main organizers of the competition, announced the results. To the delight of UVA Naval ROTC, we emerged victorious and proudly returned to Maury Hall with our heads held high and first place trophy in hand. The Tri-Service competition was a great success, but our joint cooperation doesnt stop there. Throughout the semester midshipmen and cadets alike have participated in numerous charitable events in support of each others philanthropies. These include efforts towards Toys-4-Tots, Operation Flag the Lawn in support of Wounded Warriors, a blood drive for the Armed Services Blood Program, and many other events all working towards developing a sense of community between the UVA ROTC units. It was a great year as we made giant strides in connecting the joint force of UVA ROTC, and we hope to continue these efforts to an even greater extent in years to come.
n 23 March 2013, guests from the Charlottesville community, and our guest-of-honor, Rear Admiral Brian C. Prindle, joined our unit for a formal Dining out. Dining Out is a naval tradition that began as a celebration among a unit and their spouses after a successful battle or a long voyage. The tradition continues today, and aims to build camaraderie within a unit outside of the typical military setting.
Dining Out by MIDN 4/C Cox
earned both a trip to the grog bowl as well. MIDN 1/C Mills was called out for failing to adequately prepare with readings for his Naval Science classes. There were several dancing
The evening began with a cocktail hour, during which midshipmen, officers, and their guests arrived at Ern Commons and were able to greet one another and mingle before the ceremonial portion of the evening began. Mr. President, MIDN 1/C Weisskopf, called everyone to order, and the parading of the beef began. Mr. Vice, MIDN 1/C Greensmith, tasted the beef to determine whether or not it was fit for human consumption. Throughout the meal, guests ate and enjoyed the company of those seated near them, but under the watchful eye of Mr. Vice, who was carefully observing and recording any violations of the Rules of the Mess in order to dole out fines later in the night. Following the meal, Rear Admiral Prindle gave his remarks, and then the toasts and fines began. Mr. Vice called out the egregious violations and crimes committed throughout the night, referring the offending Midshipmen to Mr. President in order for just punishment to be awarded. The punishments included various visits to the grog bowl, the singing of the Navy and Marine Corps Hymns, dancing, and the shaving off of MIDN 4/C Kennedys mustache. Throughout the evening, MIDN 3/C McCarthy would regularly stand on his chair and announce the time, preceding his announcements with the appropriate number of dings that would be made by a clock. For disregarding professionalism and making a more-thanminor change to his uniform, namely donning brown leather cowboy boots, MIDN 2/C Baldwin earned a trip to the grog bowl. MIDN 1/C Freeburg was made to imitate a jet, sounds included, by flying around the dining area. In a battle to determine the better twin, both MIDN 3/C Michael and Kevin Foley went headto-head in a battle to tell the best joke. The matching bowties of MIDN 4/C Mettenburg and MIDN 4/C Unger
that we're all fighting on the same team and to instill that sense of camaraderie that is so integral to our military today. One of the highlights of the semester was the Tri-Service competition in which all three UVA ROTC Units (Navy, Air force, Army) came together for a day of fierce competition and an opportunity to
performances, given by MIDN 2/C Donaldson and MIDN 4/C Getty, and MIDN 2/C Cypher found himself rapping. The Marine Option Platoon displayed its comraderie and unity when MIDN 4/C Berger was told to stand on his chair and sing the Marine Corps Hymn as punishment, and the entire platoon subsequently joined in. MIDN 4/C Eric Bowden and MIDN 4/C Taylor Bowden were able to break from the typical tough-guy attitudes displayed in their multiple work-out videos, and show a softer side by singing Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star. Finally, in a last-minute effort to bring Unit Staff in on the fun, an attempt was made to fine Lieutenant Anglin for failing to bring his wife to the event and thus depriving a table of what was sure to be excellent conversation; however, Mr. President wisely declared that the evening had already concluded, and thus no punishment would be given. Overall, Dining Out was a great opportunity for the members of different classes and Unit Staff to build bonds in a professional, yet very lighthearted and entertaining atmosphere. The night laid the foundations for what will likely become a tradition in years to come within the NROTC unit at the University of Virginia.
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THE UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA NROTC
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5/1/13 9:43 PM
Villanova Drill & Military Excellence Competition
Navy DEEG-Ball: Philanthropy Dodgeball Tournament

by MIDN 4/C Guinn
by MIDN 4/C Boelsche
aking up at 0530 is no new experience for UVA midshipmen. All fourth-class midshipmen have devoted each Friday morning this year to platoon drill, practicing through warm, through cold, and through enough snow to make us wonder if wed accidentally gone to the University of Alaska. However,
finding ourselves on a gym floor bundled in sleeping bags at 0530 was a new experience. Such was our awakening on a day we had anticipated all year: the Villanova Drill and Military Excellence Competition. We hardly had a moment to shake the influence of slumber before we found ourselves back on that gym floor, this time formed up in uniform, ready for inspection. For those of us who could still feel sleeps tight grasp on our faculties, the yells of the inspecting Gunnery Sergeant quickly obliterated its hold and brought us to an unmistakable state of alertness. Despite various mistakes, we Wahoos remained calm and collected, earning third place in platoon inspection and a trophy to bring home. Following inspection, the team was evaluated on its execution of basic platoon drill. Under the command of MIDN 2/C Baldwin, we gave a fine display of drill skill that made those Fridays worth it. Several midshipmen also represented UVA in some of the competitions numerous other events. In the drill competition, Midshipman 2/C Donaldson commanded a squad of fourth-class in squad basic drill, and Midshipman 3/C Sloat and his team overcame last minute learning of complicated movements to compete successfully in the Color Guard category.
In recent years, Villanova has also added a Military Excellence and Athletics Competition, featuring a host of running and swimming relays, as well as combat-fitness oriented events. A handful of upperclass midshipmen competed in the Distance Medley race in the morning, and Midshipmen Bowden (E), Bowden (T), Chen, and Berger made UVAs first appearance in the Tactical Assault event, working as a fire-team with rifles to make their way across a football field, without being killed by the enemy. The team of the Bowden twins, Midshipman 2/C Cypher, and Midshipman 4/C Hale, placed first in their heat of the BUDs Seal Our time at Villanova provided great camaraderie with other midshipmen. Not just with the drill competition, but with the other competitions as well. Its definitely a weekend that Ill remember. - MIDN 4/C Bowden, Echallenge. Every year our presence in these events has increased, a trend that will hopefully continue. Each midshipman performed well and appreciated the challenge of a multi-unit competition far from grounds. Villanova proved to be an enjoyable and rewarding experience, partly because of the opportunity to bond with fellow UVA students while meeting midshipmen from other schools, and also because of the pride that comes with adding a little weight to the shelves of trophies in Maury Halls Wardroom.
L L
ate in second semester, the NROTC battalion teamed up with Delta Gamma sorority to host a dodge ball tournament at the Dell Basketball Courts. All the proceeds went to benefit the Service for Sight Foundation to help support the men and women of the Armed Forces who have suffered eye injuries. Everyone was really excited about this event. Leading up to the This years philanthropy was the most successful event weve held in my time at UVA. Teaming up with another organization really helped in getting people excited about it and the idea of a dodgeball tournament was excellent. I hope we continue to hold these events on a more consistent basis because everyone enjoys them! MIDN 2/C Ballato tournament, one of our platoons painted Beta Bridge to get the word out about it. The girls from Delta Gamma also set up tables to help gin up interest as well. The event was a huge success, and everyone there had a great time. The weather was perfect, and there was plenty of dodge ball, loud music, and burgers straight off the grill for everyone to enjoy. Teams from several fraternities and sororities around campus showed up, as well as a few teams from our own battalion. Everyone seemed to enjoy the fast-paced games, as well as spending time with friends and getting to know people from all the other teams. We managed to raise several hundred dollars for the foundation as well, and one of our own battalion teams even won the tournament. Overall, the philanthropy dodge ball event was a great timeeveryone had fun playing dodge ball and socializing and we raised a bunch of money to help a great cause. I really enjoyed it and I hope we get to take part in more events like this in the future.
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Dining In
by MIDN 1/C Blaha
mess. Everyone got a kick out of watching midshipmen be forced to sing and dance or take trips to the grog bowl. LT Seth Ervin, an SH-60 pilot and UVA alumnus, was the guest of honor for the night. LT Ervin delivered a very
A Day in the Lifebyof a 4/C Midshipman MIDN 4/C Mettenburg

commanders to ensure that everyone is within uniform and grooming regulations. It is all to prepare us for the Final Inspection at the end of the semester, where each midshipman is reviewed by a member of Unit Staff. Following colors, we file into Maury for a General Military Training (GMT) presentation on safe driving. GMT briefs cover a variety of topics and often guest speakers brief the battalion on different aspects of the Navy life and different career paths. Once drill is over, we wear our uniform around grounds for the rest of the day, which means we as 4/C must always be on the lookout for platoon commanders, battalion staff, and Unit staff members to salute, lest we forget and face the wrath of an upperclassman. On Thursday afternoon, its time for Naval Science. For first years, its Introduction to Naval Science taught by Lieutenant May. We get a basic rundown of all the unrestricted line communities of the Navy and learn how to identify ranks, ships, planes, and more. Finally, as COB draws nigh, Im anxious to be able to change out of my uniform, since those pesky shirt-stays are really starting to dig into my leg. Once I do, Im back to being a regular college student againnot MIDN 4/C Mettenburg, but just Conor. That is, at least until tomorrow morning at 0515 to go to field day, where 4/C midshipmen clean Maury Hall, polishing, dusting, vacuuming, and mopping. We make the best of it though, as someone always brings an iHome and iPod so we can jam-out while we clean. Once were done with that, itll be time to grab our rifles and meet our drill instructors, under whose tutelage we learn the lefts, rights and ups and downs (quite literally) of rifle manual and precision drill every Friday morning from 0630-to 0800. But all of thats tomorrow, and for now Im happy to have made it through another drill day.
n April 20th, 2013, the first class midshipmen and unit staff members attended the annual Dining-In ceremony. Dining-In is a formal ceremony that is a longstanding Navy tradition designed to be lighthearted and boost camaraderie within a unit.
ednesday night has come again. Despite having what seems like mounds of homework due the following day, Im preparing my uniformshining my shoes, making sure there are no wrinkles or train tracks on my uniform, and making sure my nametag is inch above the front pocket, since last week we were in SDBs, but Word says were in khakis tomorrow. The whole process generally doesnt take much time, except when I am preparing for Inspections, when it consumes in excess of two hours, as I must make sure that everythingshoes, cover, pantsare as close to perfect as possible. After uniform prep, I turn in around 0100 and set my alarm for around 0615 for 0700 drill. As I get out of bed, I groanstill sore from that intense circuit course PT on Tuesday. The time buffer ensures that I will not be rushed in putting on my uniform and will arrive at Maury for drill no later than 0645, because even though we wont start until 0700, in ROTC, if youre not 15 minutes early, youre late. At 0700 sharp, we assemble outside of Maury for the presentation of colors and then all midshipmen are reviewed by their platoon
Due to the construction that is currently taking place on the Rotunda, this years Dining-In was held in the Solarium room at the Colonnade Club. The evening started with a cocktail hour outside in the garden, where midshipmen and unit staff members enjoyed the nice weather and shared stories about the last four years. Dinner began with the parading of the beef and the playing of bagpipes. After the meat was declared fit for human consumption, the meal was served. The Battalion commanding officer, MIDN Weisskopf served as president of the mess, while MIDN Maloney assumed the role of the vice president, or Mr. Vice. Mr. Vices job for the evening is to enforce the rules and traditions of the mess, and recommend punishments for anyone who violates them. After dinner concluded, formal toasts were made and punishments were dolled out to the offenders of the
32 THE UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA NROTC
inspiring speech about his career in the Navy, leaving the first-class midshipmen eager to start their careers. The night came to an end with the presentation of gag gifts and watching the 1/C slideshow. After leaving the Colonnade Club, the 1/C gathered at the steps of the Rotunda to share cigars and reminisce one last time before calling it a night. It was a truly memorable event that no one will soon forget.
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A Day in the Life of a 3/C Midshipman
by MIDN 3/C Costelloe

MIDN 3/C Sibilla shines her shoes the night before a Thursday morning drill period.
he first day in the life of a third-class is a glorious day. You are no longer a fourth-class! You made it through all the uncomfortable growing pains of being a new midshipman, not to mention Friday morning drill. You get to put on your first stripe, revel in your new leadership position, and feel like you earned your place in the battalion.
A Day In The Life Of A 2/C Midshipman

by MIDN 2/C Warner
Suddenly, you notice his face, and you can see that he is stressed. You realize he is signing up for classes and has no idea what to take. It hits you that what he needs is not scolding, but guidance. You can let his squad leader play the bad cop. You sit down with him and teach him what you have learned over the past two years and guide with countless requests and events need to be organized. On top of all this, you have your ROTC commitments. You still have to show up to drill, PT, and plan your Operation Order for the battalion. Its a never-ending cycle as the number of hours you sleep each night steadily decline. You feel as though you are in
The second day in the life of a third-class midshipman is a reality check. You realize that being a squad leader is more than just a title. Not only do you have to worry about yourself, as you did last year, but you have to worry about all of the mistakes that five other midshipmen might make. You are particularly concerned about the new fourth-class. Are Back at O-Week, newly minted 3/c MIDN show off their shoulder boards. you telling me I have to teach them how to do morning colors?! I only just learned to do that myself! Before you know it, you have Initial Inspection and a calculus midterm the next day, and your platoon commander just informed you that you have to make place-cards for the Marine Corps Birthday by COB. After class, you rush over to Maury Hall to start printing the place cards. In the meantime, you start studying your knowledge so you can quiz your squad at preinspection. Right before pre-inspection, the printer runs out of ink! You dash out to your car, drive to Staples to get some more ink, and make it back just in time. You nitpick all of your squads uniforms and teach the fourth-class midshipmen how to handle inspection. You then get them to help you with the place cards (the joys of delegation!). After they are all done, you head home to prep your own uniform and try to make sense of partial derivatives. The next morning you wake up at 0530 to get ready for inspection. The inspector asks you to recite all of your squad members hometowns. You just barely manage to rattle them off. Whew! Passed Inspection! Now for that calculus test...
Squad Leader MIDN 3/C Orr and MIDN 1/C Greensmith converse during drill.
MIDN 3/C Fuller, Green, and Redman at clinical.
By the time you have reached the status of a 2/C midshipman, you feel like you have got it made. You are halfway done with your ROTC career and you are only inferior to the 1/C, who always seem to be sick with senioritis, and never seem to be around. The underclassmen look at you like some divine creature as you strut your way through Maury Hall. There is nothing that can bring you down. It only takes a few weeks of school before reality sets in and your head has shrunk back to its normal size. Third year at the University of Virginia is much more demanding than you expected. Your evenings are consumed by term papers, group projects, and problem sets that are so confusing they might as well
MIDN 3/C Hough inspects her squad during drill.
As a 3/c midshipman, it is a pleasure leading 4/C midshipmen while still seeking advice and wisdom from the upper class midshipmen. MIDN 3/C Green
2/c year is a big transition year; this is the year you get more involved with the leadership and execution of major events. It is really challenging, but also rewarding. It definitely helps shape us as growing leaders. -MIDN 2/C Senerchia
a black hole of work and responsibility. Finally, you see something that puts you over the edge. You see a 4/C walk into the Computer Room. His shoes are dull, his nametag is missing, and his haircut screams out of regs. You approach the midshipman, ready to correct his egregious uniform violations and release all your frustration.
him through the process. It is these moments that remind you why you joined Naval ROTC. You want to be a leader. These moments make you realize that in the end, all that hard work will be worth it.
have been written in gibberish. That leadership position you took in your extracurricular activity is starting to take its toll as your inbox is flooded
THE UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA NROTC 2012 - 2013 H THE LOG BOOK
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A Day In The Life Of A 1/C Midshipman
by MIDN 1/C Blaha
Marine Option Platoon

by MIDN 3/C Hough
eing a first-class midshipman can be both rewarding and challenging. You have finally worked your way from the bottom of the totem pole, all the way to the top. Being the most senior members of the midshipman battalion has its perks. Underclassmen look up to you and treat you with more respect. Underclassmen are quick to pick the brains of the first-class if they have questions about the way something should be done. Unit staff tends to start treating you as a young officer rather than just a lowly midshipman. With great power comes great responsibility, however. As a first-class midshipman, you are just months away from being a commissioned officer. That is a feeling that is hard to fathom back when you were a fourth-class, fresh out of high school.
Being Battalion Commander was definitely the defining leadership experience of college. - MIDN 1/C Freeburg
The expectations of first-class are much higher than the rest of the battalion. First-class are charged with running the day-to-day operations of the midshipman battalion, planning weekly drill events, and ensuring that the underclassmen are performing up to expected standards. This can be a full-time job on its own, but when you consider that the first-class still have a full course load of classes as well, it can seem overwhelming. After four years of training in leadership and management, this is what you have been preparing for. At the start of the fall semester, commissioning and graduation still seem a long ways off. The fall semester is always busy and winter break seems like it will never arrive. When you arrive back in Charlottesville for the spring, you start to see the light at the end of the tunnel. The spring semester starts to fly by right before your eyes and before you know it, you are sending out invitations to commissioning. Everything you have worked hard for the last four years starts to become a reality. The firstclass have no doubt that their time here at UVA has adequately prepared them to be Naval officers and are eager to hit the fleet at the end of May.
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MIDN 1/C Freeburg changes command of the battalion with MIDN 1/C Weisskopf.
First class midshipmen celebrate after receiving their service selections this fall.
MIDN 1/c Cruz locked on at inspection.
he Marine O p t i o n ( M O ) Platoon is made up of a fire team of four motivated midshipmen (MIDN 2/C Baldwin, MIDN 2/C Donaldson, MIDN 3/C Hough, and MIDN 4/C Berger) who have earned a United States Marine Corps Scholarship. While we participate in Drill and PT along side our Navy peers, our path to commissioning is unique and contains additional challenges. To maintain our combat fitness, we have additional PT sessions on Monday and Wednesday and on Tuesday afternoons we have class to learn land navigation, mapping, effective mission briefing, and other skills. In the spring, we put what we have learned into practice by conducting squad assaults at nearby Observatory Hill. This all culminates
with a twenty-four hour field-training exercise (FEX) held at the end of the semester where we get invaluable leadership experience controlling a squad during combat against live aggressors with paintball guns. All of this training is critical in preparing us for Officer Candidate School (OCS) in Quantico, Virginia. All Marine Option midshipman must be able to graduate from OCS in the summer before their final year of college in order to commission as Marine officers. This year is very unusual because we do not have any firstclass Marine Option midshipmen, who, having just graduated from OCS, can provide guidance and lead the training and development of the rest of the platoon. However, this has given our secondclass midshipmen an additional leadership opportunity by giving them the chance to be Platoon Commander earlier than normal. Small but might, the Marine Option Platoon will continue to develop and produce successful Marine Officers.
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Nurse Corps Society

by MIDN 3/C Fuller
he Nurse Options in the battalion are small in number, but certainly dont go unnoticed. With three 1/C preparing for commissioning, one 2/C, three 3/C and one new 4/C, Nurse Options participate in the battalion as company commanders, platoon commanders, squad leaders, and other officer positions. While we do not have a Nurse Corps officer stationed here, through Nurse Corps Society, we are able to support each other and provide advice and guidance to each other throughout our college experiences.
MIDN Bible Study

by MIDN 4/C Bowden, E
IDN Bible Study is a weekly fellowship led by MIDN Torres for midshipmen to discuss the Bible, their struggles in college, and what it takes to nurture their faith in college and in the battalion. For the first few weeks, midshipmen shared their testimonies on how they grew in their relationship with Christ. Sessions would usually start off with each member sharing their high points, low points, and the ways theyve seen God work in their lives throughout the week. Then members would then proceed to discuss a variety of topics in scripture. While usually led by Torres, MIDN Bible study is sometimes led by other midshipmen, such as Midshipman Sloat, who examined the parables of Christ, and my brother, who discussed the impact of fear as an obstacle to fulfilling Gods will for our lives. A highlight of the fall semester was when LT May shared how he has held the faith while serving in the fleet, and how his faith in God has kept him accountable and has given him the strength to make good decisions in the Navy, whether on duty or on liberty. As it progressed, the Bible study proved to be a great support group for many midshipmen, who could just come in and share their thoughts while learning from their brothers and sisters, in arms and in Christ. It was an equal playing field, where midshipmen could address each other honestly without regard to rank, class, or chain of command.
Nurse Corps Society meets a few times a month, where we discuss Nurse Option summer cruise, nursing school curriculum, ROTC, and life in general. We operate as a support system for each other. All the upperclass nurses are extremely willing and enthusiastic about helping the underclass nurses acclimate to the battalion and the UVA School of Nursing. Our meetings generally take place in the lounge of Maury Hall, but every once in a while we branch out to go to dinner or do something fun. In the future, we hope to tour a naval hospital or even see a hospital ship. Because we are so different in our academic and career paths from the rest of the battalion, it is crucial for us to band together and help each other within our own school. In addition to our fellow midshipmen, we are extremely fortunate to have 3 Nurse Corps officers currently working on their masters degrees here at UVA. LCDR Pozniak, LT Garcia, and LT Ross have been excellent resources for all our questions, and have provided invaluable information about Navy Nursing. They make appearances at our meetings and accompany us to dinner. LCDR Pozniak spent a vast amount of his career as an aircraft carrier nurse, and is able to share all kinds of experiences that happen in a ships medical department. LT Garcia has worked in hospitals in both Kuwait and Afghanistan, with more boots-on-ground experience. LT Ross, who spent his career working with Marines, just began his masters work this summer, and we are excited to welcome him into the Nurse Corps Society.
As a small minority within the battalion sometimes it can be hard for us to get a perspective on what our lives will truly be like in the fleet, and how to balance the very time-intensive nursing curriculum with ROTC. Nurse Corps Society provides an outlet for these questions and opportunities for mentorship that enrich our experience in the battalion and better prepare us for the future. -MIDN 3/C Redman
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Lunch With the Lieutenants

by MIDN 4/C Brasek
tarting in the 2012 fall semester, LT Anglin began to invite any Midshipman of the Battalion to join him and the other Lieutenants on lunch outings Friday officers. Though Boylan Heights is far from being the wardroom of a ship in the fleet, the rules of conversation are the same for both settings. It is valuable for each midshipman to learn how to
Battalion Intramural Sports & Physical Training by MIDN 2/C Cypher & MIDN 3/C Fridley
appearances and added some crucial goals for the team. The floor hockey tournament saw some very mixed results. As an experienced street hockey player, MIDN DeMello proved capable of some pretty impressive moves and shots and showcase their skills on the court. Other midshipmen, such as MIDN Cypher, Hartman, and Hale helped to make the team one of the most intimidating on grounds. Whether we have a perfect losing record or a perfect winning record, all the MIDN who participate in IM Sports have a blast. Team sports breed competition but also encourage teamwork. Although this year we failed to bring any IM Sports championships back to Maury Hall, the future looks bright. A team of talented and athletic Midshipmen are always on the verge of IM Sports domination.
afternoons. The locations of these lunches have included No.3, Boylan Heights, Lemongrass, Trinity Irish Pub, the Biltmore Grill, and other restaurants on The Corner. These unofficial events are a great way for midshipmen to meet with unit staff in a less formal environment than that of Maury Hall. Midshipmen, especially 4/c midshipmen, who are able to attend Lunch with the Lieutenants found themselves able to talk to unit staff in a more comfortable way, while also maintaining a proper level of respect. Lunch with the Lieutenants may also be an excellent tool for midshipmen to learn how to conduct themselves in the wardroom as commissioned
carry himself or herself in a comfortable yet respectful manner in the presence of superiors, while refraining from talking shop, religion or politics. During Lunch with the Lieutenants, midshipmen have great opportunities to talk with unit staff about engaging military related topics or non-military topics. Interesting sea stories or descriptions of what life is like out in the fleet were generally the most popular subjects of conversation during the lunches. Attending these lunches is an easy and fun way to learn important life skills, to receive great advice from experienced officers, and to show an interest in ones future experiences in the Navy.
very semester, the Battalion sponsors Intramural (IM) Sports. This fall we played softball and outdoor soccer, and in the Spring semester we participated inindoor soccer, a sloor hockey tournament, and sand volleyball. These sports help to increase camaraderie by providing an environment outside of the normal ROTC routine for midshipmen of all classes to interact and have fun. Softball started up first in September. Some, such as MIDN Bisallion were practically softball professionals. MIDN Demello used his long stretch as first baseman and MIDN Hale could hit with a strong arm from third. Making a one game appearance, MIDN Van Beek found her calling as a softball player. Soccer picked up soon after in October. Everyone was a little rusty except for MIDN Holy who was by far the MVP. In addition to making countless saves from point blank range as goalie, MIDN Holy scored the only goal of one game all the way from midfield. The spring semester brought more opportunities for IM Sports. MIDN Hartman, Cox, Clemmer, and Fridley were the core of an Indoor Soccer team that was sometimes overmatched but never outhustled. MIDN Cypher made some
around opposing defensemen. The rest of the team, led by superb goaltending from MIDN Clemmer, showed some serious heart but failed to advance to the championship. As warmer summer weather approached, the Sand Volleyball season began. MIDN Jahncke and Redman were thrilled to participate
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Midshipmen Around the World

by MIDN 2/C Taylor
MIDN 3/C Sibilla was also able to take advantage of the Project GO scholarship this past summer to travel to Kiev, Ukraine with Arizona State University to continue learning Russian. Because of the classes she took there over the summer and her immersion in the environment, she was able to skip a whole level when she got back to UVA. She will travel to Moscow this summer on an additional Project GO scholarship award. Shell be fluent in no time! Numerous midshipmen are also engaged in service-learning projects abroad. MIDN 2/C Bessette returned to Ghana this January for the second time as a part of UVAs chapter of Global Medical Brigades. Global Brigades, of which Medical Brigades is just one piece, is the largest student-run international development organization in the world. Medical Brigades works with local doctors and medical professionals to collect medications that the brigaders then take with them on their trip, where they work in a clinic and have the opportunity to conduct basic medical procedures. MIDN 2/C Tarmann also traveled to Tajikistan over winter break and volunteered at a British charity/ educational center, SWORDE-Teppa. It was my second time traveling to Tajikistan, but this time I got a very different experience being on my own, not as a part of a language program, she said. She spent most
Our Diversity 62 Midshipmen From Around The World
utside of the UVA community, many midshipmen take advantage of the opportunity to study and do service projects abroad. This past summer, I was awarded a Project GO (Global Officer) grant to study Arabic in Irbid, Jordan. The Project GO scholarship was created specifically for ROTC students and focuses on creating fluency and building cultural bridges for strategic languages. Most of my time in Yarmouk was occupied by classes five hours a day on Grammar, Reading, Writing, Listening, Speaking, and the Jordanian dialect of Arabic. Additionally, we had our choice of an elective like Islamic Poetry, Music, or Quranic Recitation. To facilitate language learning outside of the classroom, we were also assigned language partnersstudents at the university who would introduce us to their friends and show us the meaning of Arab hospitality by inviting us out to dinner at their house or maybe even a wedding. On weekends, we were also able to go on day trips to nearby attractions. My favorite trips were Wadi Rum, where Lawrence of Arabia hid from the Turks, and the Dead Sea, where I floated at the lowest point on Earths crust. We had a break in the middle of summer semester during which many people went to visit neighboring countries. I went to Egypt to visit friends, but others went to hit the clubs in Beirut or walk the holy streets of Jerusalem.
of her time in Quorghonteppa, Tajikistan, helping English-language students and getting to know the staff at the center. The purpose of her trip was to scope out SWORDETeppa in the hopes of returning in the summer to do a research project. And in February we found out that we were in fact awarded a grant from the Jefferson Public Citizens Program to conduct a survey-based research project in Tajikistan with SWORDE-Teppa this summer, along with MIDN 3/C Orr and MIDN 3/C Van Beek. It will certainly be an eyeopening experience for everyone, and an exciting opportunity to learn about a culture not many people outside of the region know about. Next year, we will even get to have our findings published! In short, midshipmen in our battalion are aware that as future naval officers, we will often act as unofficial ambassadors, and the experiences abroad we have during college will undoubtedly come in handy in the Fleet.
Academic Majors
Arts & Sciences
Astronomy Biochemistry Biology Chemistry Economics Environmental Science Foreign Affairs History Leadership and Public Policy Mathematics Medieval Studies Physics Political Science and Government Public Policy and Government Russian Statistics
Nursing
All Nurse Options
Commerce
Finance and Management
Engineering & Applied Sciences

Aerospace Engineering Biomedical Engineering Chemical Engineering Civil Engineering Computer Engineering Computer Science Electrical Engineering Engineering Science Mechanical Engineering Systems Engineering
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Midshipmen Involved Around Grounds

Religious Organizations
Catholic Student Ministry Chi Alpha Christ Episcopal Softball Team Grace Christian Fellowship Inter-Varsity Christian Fellowship Latter Day Saints Student Association MIDN Bible Study Nursing Christian Fellowship St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church 9 AM Choir St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Sunday School Teacher
Extracurricular Activities
Sports
Clubs and Independent Organizations

Asian Leadership Program Black Voices Gospel Choir Blueprint Leadership Program Cavalier Daily College Republicans E-Guide for Engineering School Hoos In the Stairwell A Capella Group Jefferson Public Citizens Madison House Martha Jefferson Hospital Volunteer Organization for Young Filipino Americans Organizing For America Outdoors Club Resident Advisor Salsa Club Slavic Student Association University Democrats UVA Green Dining Womens Leadership Development Program Young Women Leaders Program
AKAdeMiX Dance Crew Boxing Club Club Swim Club Wrestling Team Fishing Club Intramurals Lax Club Mahogany Dance Troupe Mens Club Water Polo SCUBA club University Dance Club Varsity Swimming and Diving
Academic Societies and Scholarship
AED Health Honor Society ASMA Health Honor Society Cardiovascular Biomechanics Research Lab College Science Scholars Echols Scholars Environmental Sciences Organization Jefferson Scholars Multi-Scale Muscle Mechanics Research Laboratory Pi Epsilon Environmental Science Honor Society Rodman Scholar Sigma Alpha Lambda Academic Society Sigma Theta Tau International Nursing Honor Society
Service Groups
Buford Middle School Volunteering Cavs and Panthers Charlottesville SPCA Cross-Cultural Solutions Volunteering Global Environmental Brigades Global Medical Brigades Madison House Charlottesville Area Riding Therapy Madison House Dental Clinic Madison House Hot Shots Seminole Trail Volunteer Fire Department Volunteers with International Students and Scholars Western Albemarle Rescue Squad
Greek Life
Alpha Chi Omega Sorority Alpha Delta Pi Sorority Alpha Omega Epsilon Engineering Sorority Kappa Delta Sorority Panhellenic Counselor Phi Delta Theta Fraternity Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity Phi Psi Fraternity Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity Sigma Delta Tau Sorority Sigma Kappa Sorority Sigma Sigma Sigma Sorority St. Anthony Hall Fraternity Tau Kappa Epsilon Fraternity Theta Chi Fraternity Trigon Engineering Fraternity Zeta Tau Alpha Sorority
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Advice from 1/C Midshipmen

ODwyer, Cruz, Torres, Weisskopf, Mills, Lai-LePage, Freeburg, Maloney, Clemmer, Greensmith & Blaha
and the practice questions and they will help you to be more successful on the HESI and NCLEX. Good luck and enjoy the time you spend with the MIDN and NROTC because as clinicals get longer and more frequent, you wont see MIDN as often! Stay connected to the BN because you will definitely miss the people! Torres: Balancing ROTC, academics, and a having a life is pretty challenging, especially with the rigors of going to UVa. But, like Kelly Clarkson tells us in her song, what doesnt kill you makes you stronger!. Being at a school I didnt initially like has helped me learn that when you cant change something, you gotta change the way you think about it. Attitude really is everything - determines the approach you have towards life, responsibilities, and relationships. My advice, for the rest of your time here in ROTC and UVa, is that you learn WHO you really are, especially what your values are, and stick to them. You dont want to gain the whole world and lose your soul! At the end of the day, you need to make sure youre happy and honest with who you are and who you want to be. Additionally, wherever you go, youre in a position where you can influence others lives - as a MIDN, student, friend, son/daughter. When all is said and done, its helpful to reflect and think what kind of difference did you make ODwyer: The best advice I ever got (even if I didnt always follow it) was to stay true to who you are, no matter what billet you are in. Sometimes we might feel pressured to act a certain way because we feel like that is how someone in our billet is supposed to behave. In reality, you will be a better and happier leader if you adapt the billet to fit your personality and not the other way around. Everyone has something to bring to the table and your people want to get to know you, not the front that you put on because you think its what they expect or want. You are allowed to have a personality in the Navy! Cruz: I would say that balance is the key to a happy college career. NROTC should be important in your life, but balance your social life, NROTC life and personal life. Dont emphasize too much of anything. Also with NROTC, just pay attention to the details. Its very hard to do, but if you are attentive, organized and timely with things, then it will make your life so much easier! And whenever you can, try to mentor and help your classmates and other MIDN because you never know who needs help or just needs to be checked. It doesnt ever hurt to do so! For those nurse options, enjoy every clinical and learn what you can from your patients and instructors! Make sure that you get plenty of sleep before clinicals because they can be long days with lack of sleep! In regards to the NCLEX, practice questions are definitely important. NCLEX review books (Saunders and Kaplan) will definitely help you succeed! Stay focused in your last year and keep studying! It gets tough, but just keep up the studying
A dvice from 1/C Midshipmen ( )

continued
did you add to or take away from the lives of others (quote-Mark Sanborn)? I challenge you all to be a light wherever you are and to not let anyone leave you without a smile and their lives a little better =) The news inevitably brings bad and sad stories, but remember that good things happen all the time. I encourage you all to be part of that movement. Weisskopf: Rules to being a success in ROTC: Be a bro Dont act stupid/ do stupid stuff in front of staff Be in good shape (go to the gym at least 4 times a week) Read and actually learn how to do the above rule or talk to LT Golden Get outside and do stuff... Charlottesville has lots of opportunities you probably dont take advantage of Do things with a purpose and try not to half-ass them Dont fail any classes Mills: My time at UVA has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. For those who follow behind me, remember to focus on classes and develop
yourself as a leader, but never forget to take a break and enjoy the simple things. UVA is one of the most unique places in the world, so take a moment out of each day to enjoy it. Go hang out with some friends on the lawn, volunteer in the community, or even grab some lunch with the cute girl/guy you met last weekend. Live each day to the fullest because before you know it, time will pass you by whether you seize it or not.... Oh and dont blow you knee out three months before you commission; surprisingly enough that tends to complicate things. Lai-LePage: When it comes to mission accomplishment, the devils in the details. Yet at the same time, dont let yourself be consumed by ROTC, and try to keep everything in perspective. As for service selection and what is to come, dont worry; He somehow knows what you need even if it may not be what you think you wanted. Regardless of where you end up, just know that your time at UVA and in the Unit has prepared you well for whatever you may face in the future. "Farewell and Godspeed, shipmates. Freeburg: Remember that we are all in ROTC together, and that our ability to impact each other is uniquely magnified by the challenges we face. Choose to be positive when the going gets
tough. Choose to take the hit that makes others lives a little easier. Dont be afraid to push your own personal limits and live outside your comfort zone. You just might inspire someone else to do the same. Challenge the concept of thats how weve always done it with what if we did it better. Ask for advice from the LTs--they have a lot to share. Most importantly, if you havent already figured it out, you are surrounded by some incredibly awesome people. Dont let the moment that they have to bail you out be the first time you tell them
this time to your advantage. Clemmer: Dont take your time at the University for granted. These four years were the best of my life, but they go by fast. The opportunities you have here will set you up for success in the fleet and later on in life. Find what drives you to do your best and hold on to it! Try new things, go outside your comfort zone; you would be surprised what youre capable of accomplishing. I took some hard electives and often times struggled, but I learned more and felt more accomplished afterwards. Most importantly though find the joy in what youre doing and bring that joy to others. Greensmith: Dont spread yourself out too thinly. That is probably the greatest lesson Ive learned over my past four years. Everyone will probably tell you that, but its such a easy mistake to make at a place like UVA. Find a few things that you are interested in (your parents might suggest school?) and focus on these. Also, get into wild and crazy shenanigans. It helps build morale within the Unit. Blaha: Take your job seriously and try to get the most out of it. Try to take care of things as soon as they come up, youll be thankful later. Dont make excuses when you screw up. Time spent in ROTC isnt always the most enjoyable, but it flies by and its all worth it in the end.
47
thank you for their friendship. Maloney: "It is easy to get consumed by the daily routine as a midshipman and student at the University. Every once in a while, think back to why you wanted to a part of the Navy in the first place. Also, do not settle for the minimum. Leave this Unit better than you found it and mentor those who come after you. Learn how to use
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by Midshipmen 1/C Blaha, Clemmer, Cruz, Freeburg, Greensmith, Lai-LePage, Maloney, Mills, ODwyer, Torres, Weisskopf
These past four years have been an incredible experience and Im grateful to have been able to share it with some really awesome people. Some of my favorite memories from my time here at UVA include dominating Army in flag football and beating Duke at home in basketball. Go Hoos. My time at the Unit was very humbling. It was one of several ups and downs. But, the part I will always remember is the many impressive individuals and friends I met through the Unit. Stay motivated and Ill see you out there!
Farewell Class of 2013
CONGRATULATIONS
These past 4 years at the Unit a magnificent I will never forget my time with all of you. From the adventure. It wasnt always easy, but it was well worth memories of the Battle of Chipotle and the tears of it in the end. Stories and memories of my time here will Red cascading to the floor to the questionable and unforgettable events of the Mardi Gras trip, every last a lifetime. If you are ever in Japan, look me up! moment will be forever etched into my mind. Fair winds and following seas.
-MIDN 1/C Blaha
-MIDN 1/C Maloney
-MIDN 1/C Clemmer

After 4/c Orientation Week, 16 PRTs and 16 uniform inspections, I cant believe that I made it through four years of UVA Naval ROTC in Maury Hall. Its been a long journey, but I would not change it for the world. NROTC has shown me that I can handle more than I ever thought I could, and do more things I would never have dreamed of. Ive also made lifelong friends at the unit and I wish my class the very best and see you all in the fleet! Bloom where you are planted! He didnt even know her.
-MIDN 1/C Mills
-MIDN 1/C ODwyer

Hey class - its been about real as much as you can get real. From O-Week (the Battle of Chipotle, name tags losing their sticky, the choir singing the Marine Corps Hymn) to our refreshing Field Days and glorious Friday morning drill periods (somehow winning 3rd place in Villanovas inspection), to finally being Squad Leaders and finding out how many trees NROTC actually kills, to carrying out Op-Orders and being on BN Staff, to going through the motions of Morning Drill Periods, death-bypowerpoint GMTs, and somewhat better PTs now - its been a journey for the little four years weve had here! Ive definitely learned a lot about leadership and character from you all, and I really look up to each and EVERY one of you! Thank you for helping me grow not only as a friend, but a person as well. I do really mean that. Enjoy your first duty stations, finally making real money, and being on your own. Looking forward to seeing your names in the paper - you guys got great hearts, go out and change the world!
Ensign Colin J. Maloney

Explosive Ordinance Disposal Panama City, FL A true man of honor feels humbled himself when he cannot help humbling others
Ensign John G. Weisskopf

Aviation (Pilot) Pensacola, FL
That which we persist in doing becomes easier for us to do; not that the nature of the thing itself is changed, but that our -Robert E. Lee power to do is increased.
-Ralph Waldo Emerson
-MIDN 1/C Cruz
Despite our ROTC PTSD from the crackdown as 4/c, Id said we turned out alright. Thank you for the many memories, from Maury to San Diego to New Orleans. Thank you for the great friendship, for making the early mornings a little easier, for the insane nights we shared, and for the loyalty you showed me. Im excited to hear what kind of trouble you all get up to in the fleet, and I hope to reunite when we all come back as the crazy alumni who get a little too nostalgic on the corner and sleep through our speeches to the BN.
-MIDN 1/C Freeburg
Fair winds and following seas, shipmates.
-MIDN 1/C Greensmith

Its amazing to think about how far we've come since O-Week and the Battle of Chipotle. My time at UVA has been transformative, and Im glad to have been a part of the Unit. I am truly thankful for the experiences Ive had and the people Ive met along the way. I wish you all the very best as we go to the Feet!
-MIDN 1/C Torres
Thanks for a fun and unforgettable 4 years to everyone. Keep the Mardi Gras tradition living on. Be a bro.
Aviation (Pilot) Pensacola, FL You can have anything you want - if you want it badly In matters of style, swim with the current; In matters of enough. You can be anything you want to be, do anything you principle, stand like a rock. -Thomas Jefferson set out to accomplish if you hold to that desire with singleness of purpose.
-Abraham Lincoln
2012 - 2013 H THE LOG BOOK 49
Surface Warfare Officer USS ANTIETAM (CG-54), Yokosuka, Japan
Ensign Burnell A. Clemmer
Ensign Julia M. Freeburg
-MIDN 1/C Lai-LePage
-MIDN 1/C Weisskopf

48
5/1/13 9:43 PM
CONGRATULATIONS
CONGRATULATIONS
Nurse Corps Officer Balboa Naval Hospital, San Diego, CA Dont let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity.
Ensign Tiffany D. Torres
Ensign Robert K. Mills

Aviation (Pilot) Pensacola, FL
Ensign Caroline A. ODwyer

Nurse Corps Officer Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, VA By endurance we conquer
A true leader has the confidence to stand alone, the courage to make tough decisions, and the compassion to listen to the needs of others. He does not set out to be a leader, but becomes one by -1 Timothy 4:12 the equality of his actions and the integrity of his intent.
-General Douglas MacArthur
-Ernest Shackleton
Aviation (Pilot) Pensacola, FL If you are going to achieve excellence in big things, you develop the habit in little matters. Excellence is not an exception, it is a prevailing attitude.
-Colin Powell
Ensign Scott C. Blaha
Wahoo Wa!
AMERICAN!
Ensign Peter C. Lai-LePage
Submarine Warfare Charleston, SC Be a yardstick of quality. Some people arent used to an environment where excellence is expected.
-Steve Jobs
50
PROUD TO BE AN
Nurse Corps Officer Walter Reed National Military Medical Center Bethesda, MD "Believe you can and youre halfway there."
-Theodore Roosevelt
Ensign Laila F. Cruz
Ensign Garrett Creigh Greensmith

Submarine Warfare Charleston, SC Cease to do evil, learn to do good; Seek justice, Re-prove the ruthless, Defend the orphan, Plead for the widow
- Isaiah 1:16d-17
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THE LOG BOOK

Fall 2012 - Spring 2013

Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps 2012 - 2013

UVA NROTC Battalion 2012 - 2013

Honor | Courage | Commitment

UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA NAVAL ROTC

UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA NROTC

2012 - 2013 H THE LOG BOOK

Commanding Officers Address Captain T.M. Cashman, USN

UNIT STAFF| |NROTC| |UVA

Commanding Officer Professor of Naval Science

CAPT Mike Cashman

Executive Officer Assoc. Prof. of Naval Science

CDR Mike Kunkel

Marine Officer Instructor Battalion Staff Advisor

Maj David Wright

Grounds of the University of Virginia

Asst. Prof. of Naval Science Submarine Officer Instructor

Asst. Prof. of Naval Science Aviation Officer Instructor

Asst. Prof. of Naval Science Surface Warfare Officer Instructor

SSgt Charlie Coulter

Unit Staff 2012-2013

UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA NROTC

Battalion Commanding Officers Message Fall 2012

Battalion Commanding Officers Message Spring 2013

UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA NROTC

2012 - 2013 H THE LOG BOOK

FALL SEMESTER 2012

Welcome Aboard Staff Sergeant Coulter

SPRING SEMESTER 2013

UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA NROTC

2012 - 2013 H THE LOG BOOK

Farewell to Gunnery Sergeant Salazar

UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA NROTC

2012 - 2013 H THE LOG BOOK

1/c Nursing Cruise

2/c Summer Cruise

by MIDN 1/C ODwyer

by MIDN 2/C Tarmann

Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center

UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA NROTC

Enlisted Nursing Cruise

by MIDN 3/C Redman

by MIDN 4/C Berger

2012 - 2013 H THE LOG BOOK

Fall Field Exercise (FEX)

Navy Birthday Celebration

By MIDN 3/C Van Beek

UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA NROTC

2012 - 2013 H THE LOG BOOK

Nurse Corps Symposium

by MIDN 3/C Orr

You A re C Invited ordially to...

Family Weeke Oct nd

Oh hey, TJ. Even at Marquette, Mr. Jefferson makes an impact.

UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA NROTC

237th Marine Corps Birthday Ball

Toys For Tots

by MIDN 2/C Senerchia

100 TOYS & $2,600

United States Naval Academy Leadership Conference

by MIDN 1/C Mills

Dining Out by MIDN 4/C Cox

THE UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA NROTC