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SAVANNAH STATE UNIVERSITY NROTC
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Greetings from the low country!
Captain Kent V. Flowers, USN
Commanding Officer
1 MC STAFF:
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS:
MIDN 1/C Demetrius Campbell
MIDN 4/C Najeeb Carter
MIDN 4/C Gina Anderson
MIDN 4/C Brandon Richardson
Sgt Joshua Fralick, USMC
MIDN 1/C Robert Cleary
MIDN 1/C Michael Whitaker
MIDN 2/C Brent Bondurant
MIDN 2/C Joseph Parsons
MIDN 3/C Alyssa Carty
MIDN 3/C Joshua Jackson
MIDN 3/C Michael Litchfield
MIDN 3/C Darrius Smith
MIDN 3/C Phillip Williams
1MC
1MC
here. Everyone we meet is helpful
and welcoming. I am ecstatic to be
in command of SSU NROTC Unit. I
hope to continue the legacy of excellence that was created by Captain
Len Jones. I know that he would be
proud of the way the Battalion performed this semester. I certainly am!
The leadership demonstrated by
Midshipmen 1/C English was top
notch. His ability to empower his
staff and mentor his fellow midshipman was inspirational. I look forward to watching as Midshipman 1/C
Melendez and staff continues to
achieve just as much next semester.
The year 2008 has been great. I
know that the year 2009 will be
patriotism and willingness to volunteer to serve as
a leader in the defense of our country.
To those Midshipmen who continue to allow extracurricular activities and other distractions to rob
you of your goal of becoming a naval officer, I
offer you the following: My grandmother would
always say, “son, as hard as I may try, I cannot
convey to you the pain of a donkey’s kick. What I
can tell you is that it is a pain that you don’t want
to experience. If you don’t believe me, go ahead
and stand behind that donkey and smack it on its
behind!” Midshipmen, if you are serious about
earning a commission as a naval officer, allowing
extracurricular activities and other distractions to
rob you of your goal is tantamount to standing
directly behind a donkey and smacking it on its
behind. Trust me, that is a pain that you don’t
want to live with.
Since August of 2005, Savannah
State University’s NROTC program has been preparing me for a
career as an officer in the United
State’s Navy.
Early mornings, busy weekends
and physical fitness have slowly
become a way of life. As the
Midshipman Commanding Officer, I’ve seen and done just about
everything that a MIDN at this
unit experiences.
I’ve watched the freshman and
sophomores learn and grow
MIDN 1/C Jay English, USNR
through the same challenges that
Midshipman Commanding Officer got me and my peers to this
point.
It is not easy being a Midship-
MIDN 2/C David Melendez, Midshipman Logistics Officer, MIDN 3/C
Deshawn Aaron, Drill Team Commander, MIDN 3/C Levert Banks, Color
Guard Commander, and MIDN 3/C Michael Litchfield, Sailing Team
Commander stand by for inspection at the Commanding Officer’s Service
Dress Blues uniform inspection.
WWW.SAVANNAHSTATE.EDU/NROTC
I am fortunate and blessed to be in
Savannah at Naval ROTC Savannah
State. As I write this, the holiday
season is upon us. Yet today’s temperature forecast is a high of 78 degrees. While some folks might be a
little disappointed, I am ecstatic to
lose the sweater and pull out sandals!
It also reminds me of how fast this
semester has flown by. It was a summer of whirl wind activity for my
family and me. We started our move
from Louisiana in May. When we
arrived in Savannah in August, we
were ready to get settled.
So far we are all enjoying our time
From the extremely professional silent drill exhibition salute to the Savannah area military during the
Military Appreciation Day football game to placing
second in the University of South Carolina NROTC
Sailing Regatta, the Midshipman Company performed magnificently overall during this semester.
The added responsibility of meticulously planning
and executing a very demanding Midshipman training schedule is what sets you apart from the average
college student and prepares you for the awesome
responsibility you will inherit upon being commissioned a naval officer.
Individually, some Midshipmen have embraced the
leadership development being offered by the program and tenaciously pursue excellence both in the
classroom and the Midshipman Company. To you,
I salute you and offer my continued encouragement
and sincere appreciation for your sense of duty,
ON THE COVER:
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SAVANNAH STATE UNIVERSITY NROTC
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NOW HEAR THIS ...
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 MC STAFF …………………………………………………………………..2
CO’S WORD …………………………………………………………………. 3
MOI’S CORNER ……………………………………….…………………….. 3
MCO’S CORNER ………………………………………….………………….3
NROTC UNIT HISTORY ………………………………….………………….4
HAIL AND FAREWELL …………………………………………………...…4
INFORM ………………………………………………….…………………...5
SSU SCHOLARSHIP DINNER ……………………………….……………...6
MIDSHIPMAN INSPECTIONS ……………………………………………...7
SAILING REGATTA …………………………………………….……………8
PHYSICAL TRAINING ………………………………………………………9
USN/USMC BIRTHDAY BALL ……………………………………………..10
SSU NROTC IMPACTS COMMUNITY …………………………………….12
MISS NROTC/CORONATION …………………………………….………...14
HOMECOMING …………………………………………………….………..15
MILITARY APPRECIATION …………………………………….………... ..16
SUMMER CRUISE ……………………………………….…………………. 17
OBSTACLE COURSE …………………………………………….……….... 18
1 MC ADVISOR :
Captain Joey Martin, USMC
MPAO/ SENIOR EDITOR:
MIDN 2/C Shante’ Smith
PUBLIC AFFAIRS STAFF;
MIDN 3/C Rebecca Richards
MIDN 4/C Dustin Allard
MIDN 4/C Aysia Atkins
MIDN 4/C Justin Ramseur
MIDN 4/C Sean Randolph
MIDN 4/C Gabriel Singletary
SSgt Jean Durham, USMC
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man in this company, of the
original 18 in my class; I’m one
of three remaining.
To complete this program, is to
succeed where many have not.
This unit has been challenging
Midshipmen mentally, morally
and physically since its creation
in 1971; producing quality officers such as Major General Walter E. Gaskin, Sr. USMC. Holding true to Savannah State University’s motto of, ”You can get
anywhere from here.”
He too held the title of Midshipman in this company before he
got where he is today. My point
is — every commissioned officer
WWW.SAVANNAHSTATE.EDU/NROTC
mighty fine!
In closing, I thank each midshipman,
MECEP, and OC for stepping up.
You should each be proud of your
accomplishments. My goals for next
semester are simple. Let’s improve
grades, improve PT Scores and have
more fun. There will be plenty of
opportunities for individuals to step
up and stand out. So write out your
goals and lets get ‘em done! I look
forward to handing out more BZ
Pops. Have a Merry Christmas!
Have a Happy and blessed New
Year! Warm regards, The Captain
Captain Joey S. Martin, USMC
Marine Officer Instructor
from this unit, in some way or
another has been where we are
now.
A Midshipman is by no means a
regular college student, more is
demanded and even more is expected. I challenge you to remember this ...
“I take this obligation freely,
without any mental reservation or
purpose of evasion.”
To be here is a choice, for those
that are remaining at the semester’s end; I congratulate them and
hope that they find the same motivation and dedication to get
them through next semester too.
It has been a pleasure!
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SAVANNAH STATE UNIVERSITY NROTC
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Welcome aboard Shipmates
UNIT’S NEWEST MEMBERS EARN THEIR COLORS
The Naval ROTC Unit at Savannah State University (then Savannah State College) was established on 22 September 1971 with an enrollment of forty-one midshipmen. The first four officers, three Navy Ensigns and one Marine
Corps Second Lieutenant, were commissioned in June 1974. That second Lieutenant is now a Major General. In December 1977, the first “cross-town” Midshipman from Armstrong Atlantic State University (then Armstrong State College) was commissioned. To date, the unit has commissioned 230 officers into the Naval Service: 179 Navy Ensigns
(38 Female, 19 AASU) and 51 Marine Corps Second Lieutenants (7 Female, 3 AASU).
SSU NROTC graduates include a Marine Corps Major General (0-8), several Navy Captains (0-6) and Commanders (0-5). Captain Donnie Cochran, USN (Ret) was the first black officer to fly with and then command the
Navy Blue Angels. Captain Cynthia Miller, USN (Ret), the unit’s first black female to attain the rank of captain and
currently holds a flag officer equivalent rank in the Senior Executive Service with the National Intelligence Agency.
SSU NROTC graduates have held positions in command at every level to include major Marine Corps commands, a
destroyer squadron, aviation squadrons, ships at the 0-4 and 0-5 level in the cruiser-destroyer, amphibious and mine
counter measure communities.
Hail to Captain Kent Flowers! Captain Flowers reported to the NROTC Unit, Savannah
State University during the Summer of 2008 to replace Captain Leonard B. Jones as the
Commanding Officer and Professor of Naval Science. Captain Flowers comes to us from
Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where he also served as the Commanding Officer and Professor of Naval Science for a consortium of universities in Baton
Rouge, Louisiana. Captain Flowers is a native of Chicago, Illinois and was a 1981
graduate of the University of Virginia, where he received a B.A. in Biology. He was
commissioned in May 1981 through the Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC)
program.
Captain Kent V. Flowers, USN
MIDN 4/C Alyssa Atkins
Contributing Writer
At the beginning of the semester,
17 students walked through the
doors of the McGlockton Building
to register for the Indoctrination for
Midshipmen (INFORM). Each of
them had hopes of becoming members of the Savannah State University Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps Unit. According to the
Regulations for Officer Development, INFORM is not to be misconstrued with a “mini boot camp,”
but rather a condensed course to
help students transition into the
daily routine of the NROTC Unit.
This four-day program is designed
to assist in the enrollment processing, issuing uniforms, instructing
new students in the basics of military customs and courtesies, and
evaluate the candidates’ physical
fitness levels. Candidates are also
instructed in the basic fundamentals of close order drill.
“Drill is a cornerstone of discipline, and a disciplined student is
usually successful,” said GySgt. J.
L. Wright Jr. “It is extremely important that these candidates understand that. That’s why we put such
an emphasis on drill during IN-
FORM.”
According to MIDN 3/C Michael
Litchfield, INFORM gives the candidates a recipe for success.
“The students are told from the
very beginning that their number
one priority is Academics followed
closely by Military Aptitude,” said
Litchfield. “If they always remember that, and apply themselves accordingly, they will be successful.”
Upper-class Midshipmen are selected by the active-duty staff to
serve as INFORM mentors and
troop-handlers.
The troop handlers provide basic
instructions and escorts the freshmen Midshipman to and from
physical fitness training, swim
training and serve as chaperones
throughout the four-day evolution.
“We take them to Mayport to give
them an idea of what to expect
should they complete the program,” said LT Dustin Dickamore,
INFORM coordinator. “It is great
for them to experience first hand
what they could possibly do in the
future.”
INFORM is concluded with a
swearing in ceremony and the candidates become part of the Midshipman Company.
Farewell to Senior Chief Store Keeper Curtis Porter! Senior Chief Porter reported to the
NROTC Unit, Savannah State University during the Fall 2005 semester to serve as our
command Supply Officer. During his tour, he was instrumental in providing all uniform,
instructional materials, and supplies needed to accomplish the mission of training tomorrow’s leaders. Senior Chief Porter transitioned to civilian life this summer after 24 years
of faithful and honorable service. His plan for retirement is to spend time with his
daughter and intends to stay in the Savannah area. Congratulations go out to SKCS Porter on his retirement and we wish his success in his future endeavors — Fair Winds and
Following Seas!
SKCS Curtis Porter, USN (Ret.)
YNC Renee Byers, USN (Ret.)
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Farewell to Yeoman Chief Petty Officer Renee Byers! Chief Byers reported to the
NROTC Unit, Savannah State University during the Fall 2005 semester to serve as the
command Administrative Officer. During her tour, she provided administrative support
to the active-duty staff and the Midshipman Company alike. In addition to her regular
duties, YNC Byers also served as a mentor and advisor to the female Midshipmen within
the command. She transitioned to civilian life at the beginning of this semester after more
than 22 years of honorable and faithful service. Her plan for retirement is to spend time
with her grandchildren and eventually move from the Savannah Area. Congratulations to
YNC Byers and we wish her every success in future endeavors — Fair Winds and Following Seas!
WWW.SAVANNAHSTATE.EDU/NROTC
New Member Speaks out:
Says INFORM helped prepare him for life
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MIDN
4/C Dustin Allard
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Contributing
Writer
Sleeping peacefully in our warm beds suddenly awakened by the loud ringing of the
alarm. The time was 0445 and the day was
about to begin. PT gear on and canteen in
hand we were ready to execute our PT session. This was the daily routine during the
week of INFORM. The days began early and
when we finally were released for liberty
every night all we wanted to do was stuff our
face with chow and get some sleep. With the
running and pushing our bodies to the limit
there was no doubt that this week was going
to challenge us all. We marched everywhere
we went with a “sense of urgency” and making sure we could “reach out and touch
somebody.” We all thought we were ready,
but the shock of the first day made sure everyone knew that this was a new challenge in
our life. We would both overcome and defeat
it, or we would be defeated by it. The experience was a great one; meeting new individuals for the first time with an open mind, making friendships that we hope are going to be
ever lasting as we continue through college
and pursue our naval careers.
INFORM prepared me for the life and journey as a midshipman and as the years go by
it will be of great help for when I become a
naval officer.
Gunnery Sergeant J. L. Wright Jr., Assistant Marine Officer Instructor, corrects MIDN 4/C Najeeb Carter’s parade rest.
Every Midshipmen receives more than10-hours of instruction in the basics of Close Order Drill during INFORM.
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SAVANNAH STATE UNIVERSITY NROTC
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ducting two formal dinning functions every academic year. To
From the time he was appointed
foster an appreciation for the imthe Midshipman Logistics Officer portance of celebrating the birth of
during the fall semester 2008,
the world’s greatest Navy and our
Midshipman 2/C Melendez vowed illustrious Marine Corps, the Midto raise more money than any
shipman Company is tasked with
class before. Fund raisers are vital planning and conducting a Navy
to the successful operation of the
and Marine Corps Ball during the
Midshipman Company. Funds
Fall semester and a formal dinner
generated from car washes, footduring the Spring Semester. “The
ball concession service, football
skill sets used to project financial
game parking support and generneed, plan and motivate a group of
ous donations from alumni,
college student to come together
friends and supporters of the Mid- and professionally conduct a car
shipman Company are used to pay wash, football concessions and
for lodging and food when the
football parking support, develops
Midshipmen travel out of town to the leadership skills we desire of
participate in NROTC drill comour future naval officers,” said
petitions and sailing regattas.
Capt Joey S. Martin, USMC, MaAdditionally, the Midshipman
rine Officer Instructor. Besides,
Company is responsible for conthe incoming freshmen who inevi-
tably are tasked with doing the
“heavy lifting” or in this case the
heavy cleaning, develop a sense of
belonging as they contribute to the
success of the Midshipman Company. “I am very proud of the
entire Midshipman Company for
accomplishing our goal of raising
more funds than any Midshipman
class before,” said Melendez. The
Midshipman Company is extremely grateful for the continued
support of Pep Boys Savannah for
allowing us to use its facility to
conduct our frequent car washes
year after year. We would be remiss if we didn’t thank Thompson
Hospitality and the SSU Athletic
Department for allowing us to
conduct concession service and
parking support during the football
season.
Midshipmen 4/C Demerrick Moton and Kelvin Reynolds
rinse a vehicle off after cleaning it during a recent car
wash.
NROTC earn Scholarships from SSU Foundation MIDN 4/C Brandon Richardson
Contributing Writer
Midshipman 4/C Brandon Richardson reads a passage from a textbook during a
mandatory study session. During the Scholarship Banquet, Richardson received
the McGlockton Scholarship, a $5,000 scholarship awarded to the NROTC freshman with the highest grade point average and test scores.
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Prior to arriving at Savannah State
University, I had heard all the stories
about the caring and nurturing atmosphere of HBCUs, where the alumni
embrace incoming students and treat
them like new members of the family.
I truly had no idea of how important
that embrace would be to my pursuit
of higher education. As far as I knew,
I was just another incoming freshman
amongst hundreds attending Savannah
State for the first time. So I was a
little perplexed when, a few weeks
before the start of my first semester, I
received an invitation to attend a
scholarship banquet to receive a scholarship. The scholarship banquet was
sponsored by the Savannah State University Foundation. One of the SSU
Foundation’s missions is to generate
funds in order to provide scholarships
to deserving students attending Savannah State University. Dr. Jimmie
Jackson, President, Savannah State
University Foundation presided over
the banquet and enlisted the help of
judges, elected officials and other
WWW.SAVANNAHSTATE.EDU/NROTC
SAVANNAH STATE UNIVERSITY NROTC
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Midshipman 3/C Levert
Banks showcases his
military knowledge while
answering a question
during the Midshipman
Commanding Officer’s
Inspection. Upon completion of the NROTC program, newly commissioned officers will be
required to ensure their
personnel have the required uniform items. It is
important that each
Midshipman understand
the proper procedures of
an inspection prior to
entering the fleet.
Midshipmen bust suds for good cause
MIDN 2/C Brent Bondurant
Contributing Writer
1MC
distinguished SSU alumni to welcome
and recognize a number of academically talented, entering and returning
Savannah State University student’s
during the banquet. To my surprise, I
received the $5,000.00 John
McGlockton Scholarship for being the
NROTC incoming freshman with the
highest grade point average and scholastic aptitude test score. In addition
to numerous other recipients, three
other NROTC Midshipmen received
scholarships; Midshipman 2/C Elisha
Dotson received the NROTC In-State
Student Academic Scholarship, and
Midshipmen 3/C Alyssa Carty and
Shante Smith received the NROTC
International Student Academic Scholarship and NROTC Out-of-State Student Academic Scholarship, respectively. The actions of the SSU Foundation have impacted me profoundly.
I have a new appreciation for the commitment the alumni have for the new
generation of “TIGERS.” I am motivated to do my best to live up to the
expectations of all who made it possible for me to receive this scholarship.
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The Standard: Professional Military Appearance SSgt. Lynette Ferdinand
Contributing Writer
Naval officers set the example by
men are inspected, by the Midshippresenting a neat, professional miliman Commanding Officer, the Matary appearance in uniform. Before
rine Officer Instructor and the Coman officer speaks, his uniform commanding Officer of the NROTC
municates the level of pride he has
Unit. “We are training to become
in his affiliated service. So it
officers,” says Midshipman 3/C
should come as no surprise that the
Joshua Jackson. “We will be reuniform inspection is a key evaluaquired to set the example for our
tion for an NROTC Midshipman in
troops, so the two hours that it takes
a program that produces profesto iron in the military creases,
sional naval officers. Frequent
measure and perfectly attach every
uniform inspections
device, ensure every
“The company
force the Midshipbutton is intact and
men to repeatedly
remove every dangling
commander inand meticulously
thread is well worth the
spects the arms,
prepare their unireward of getting
equipment, dress, through an inspection
form for wear and
reinforces the imporwith zero uniform disand appearance of crepancies.
tance of wearing the
the personnel.”
uniform properly.
Uniform preparation is
-Drill and Ceremonies Manual but one element of the
“From day one in
the fleet, a newly
inspection. Midshipmen are
commissioned naval officer from
also evaluated on their military
Savannah State University will
bearing, grooming and general miliunknowingly impress a subordinate,
tary knowledge. “The multiple
peer or superior with his impeccauniform inspections during the seble appearance in uniform and that
is the goal of multiple uniform inmester holds us accountable to a set
spections during the semester,” said
standard,” said Midshipman 4/C
Capt Joey Martin, Marine Officer
Justin Ramseur. “Repeated inspecInstructor.
tions force us to learn the proper
Throughout the semester Midshipstandards for wearing our uniform.”
1MC
Midshipman 1/C Michael Whitaker demonstrates his military bearing during the Commanding Officers Inspection. Midshipmen are inspected in their Service Khaki, Service
White, and Service Dress Blue Uniforms during the semester.
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Contributing Writer
MIDN 4/C Najeeb Carter focuses on the clear front sight tip as he engages his target during
pistol team practice. Midshipmen have the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of marksmanship and are instructed on proper weapons safety procedures.
Pistol Team Fall 2008
MIDN 2/C Danielle Smith
MIDN 2/C Shante ’ Smith
MIDN 3/C Levert Banks
MIDN 4/C Najeeb Carter
MIDN 4/C Dominique Johnson
MIDN 4/C Brandon Richardson
MIDN 4/C Terrence Nwankwo
MIDN 2/C Rico Jordan
MIDN 3/C Rebecca Richards
MIDN 3/C Micah Daniels
MIDN 4/C Gabriel Singletary
MIDN 4/C Demerrick Moton
MIDN 4/C Justin Ramseur
MIDN 2/C Joseph Parsons
MIDN 3/C Deshawn Aaron
MIDN 3/C Alyssa Carty
MIDN 4/C Sean Randolph
MIDN 4/C Adrian Chance
MIDN 4/C Dustin Allard
Though I am certain that I was
selected to serve as the Midshipman Pistol Team Commander
this semester because of the
proficiency I demonstrated with
the pistol last semester, I must
admit that there is a certain
amount of additional pride that
stems from the fact that as a
female, I am serving in a billet
on a team that has traditionally
been a “boy’s club.” I found the
duties and responsibilities of
Pistol Team Commander challenging yet rewarding. The
sense of accomplishment realized from being on the range
and teaching my fellow Midshipmen the fundamentals of
marksmanship is extremely
exhilarating. I am convinced
that the Pistol Team Commander
billet requires more responsibility
than any of the other teams in the
Midshipman Company. Practicing requires placing a weapon and
ammunition in the hands of Midshipmen and trusting that they
adhere to the safety rules and
range regulations. This was essentially an off semester for the
pistol team; we did not compete
in any competitions, but I am
convinced that the progress the
team made during our practice
sessions has prepared us to be
competitive against the top ROTC
pistol teams. I am extremely
proud of the passion and motivation each team member demonstrated during our numerous practice sessions, and I look forward
to leading the team to victory
during competition next semester.
SSU NROTC Sailing Team Shocks the Competition at USC Regatta MIDN 2/C Shante’ Smith
Contributing Writer
The members of the Savannah
State University NROTC Sailing
Team, Midshipmen First Class
Jay English, Robert Cleary, Demetrius Campbell and Michael
Whitaker; Midshipman Third
Class Michael Litchfield, the
Sailing Team Commander and
Midshipman Fourth Class Sean
Randolph, practiced fatefully for
months in preparation for the
University of South Carolina
sailing regatta.
On 25 September 2008, teams
from the University of South
Carolina, Jacksonville University,
Vanderbilt University and the
University of Florida rounded out
the competition. “The condition
for day one of the competition
was great; in spite of the chilly
rain and muggy atmosphere, there
was plenty on wind, a great day
for sailing,” said LT Corbin, SSU
NROTC Sailing Team’s Advisor.
“I was very impressed that the
team held its own and kept pace
with the four other teams.” The
conditions on day two were a total
contrast to day one. It was extremely hot, and worse, there were
no ripples in the water, no leaves
rustling, and no hats flying away –
a sailing teams worst nightmare – a
day with absolutely no wind. The
poor conditions would mean insurmountable odds for the average
team, but not the SSU NROTC
Sailing Team. Resorting to its
training, the team snatched propulsion from every shallow breath of
wind to propel their sail boat to the
finish line.
At the start of the competition, the
SSU NROTC sailing team was
clearly the underdog; however, after
the last race, all the teams held their
collective breaths in eager anticipation as the judges calculated the
scores based on each team’s recorded times. There was a threat of
“upset” in the air. When the results
were announced, Savannah State
University had taken second place
to Jacksonville University with the
University of South Carolina round-
SAVANNAH STATE UNIVERSITY NROTC
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Physical Fitness paramount at NROTC Unit
NROTC Pistol Team Focuses on Fundamentals MIDN 3/C Alyssa Carty
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MIDN 4/C Sean Randolph
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Contributing Writer
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To the uninitiated students on the campus of
Savannah State University, NROTC Midshipmen are a bunch of crazy students who voluntarily wake up three days a week at 5:00 a.m. to
run around the campus yelling and screaming
and disturbing the slumber of those who chose
to sleep in. The reality is that every Midshipman in the beginning questions the purpose of
getting up so early to exercise/PT. By the end
of a Midshipman’s first semester, the habit
starts to take root. The newest members of the
company start to embrace the idea that frequent
physical training (PT) is the best way to attain
and maintain physical fitness. They learn that a
strong body promotes a strong mind. “As crazy
as this may sound, I actually enjoy PT,” said
Midshipman 1/C Cleary, Midshipman Physical
Training Officer. “I find that I am more productive on the days we have PT.”
Gunnery Sergeant Wright, Assistant Marine
Officer Instructor and Assistant Command Fitness Leader, leads a varied and rigorous fitness
program designed to challenge every Midshipman based on their level of physical fitness. “I
enjoy seeing the active duty officer come out to
PT, whether it may be a run, swimming or the
confidence course, their presence motivates the
Midshipmen and make my job easier,” said
GySgt Wright.
MIDN 3/C Michael Litchfield, Sailing Team Commander, accepts the trophy from the Savannah
Officer Candidate Joshua Stokes takes a breath while executing a breast stroke. The Midshipman Company swims at
the SSU swimming pool a few times a month.
Suggestion Box yields morale boost
MIDN 2/C Shante’ Smith
Contributing Writer
Upon assuming command of the NROTC
Unit, Capt Kent Flowers repeatedly emphasized that he believed in the power of
the suggestion box. A Midshipman, who
shall remain nameless, tested the power
of the suggested box by submitting an
anonymous request to make the October
Company run a Halloween run and allow
the company to wear non-standard PT
uniforms. On Thursday, 30 October
2008, CAPT Flowers, AKA the toothless
ghost, led his first Halloween Company
run at Savannah State University. “I see
no harm in allowing the Midshipmen the
opportunity to celebrate Halloween in a
constructive way. I ran in many Halloween runs in the fleet and I see no reason
why we can’t do the same here, besides it
gives me an opportunity to wear my costume,” said CAPT Flowers.
There was something different about the
company as we ran through the campus
that day. Every Midshipman was riding a
huge morale wave. At the end of the run
many expressed their jubilation with high
fives and pats on the backs with their fellow Midshipmen. “I never would have
fathomed that placing a small piece of
paper in a box would have this large of an
impact on a company of Midshipmen,”
said Midshipman 1/C Robert Cleary,
Physical Training Officer.
A suggestion box can be found in most
Navy and Marine Corps commands in the
fleet. Hopefully, the Midshipman Company received a valuable lesson in the
power of submitting suggestions to the
Commanding Officer. Hopefully, every
Midshipman remembers that the suggestion box is a direct line to the Commanding Officer and that one small suggestion
could yield unexpectedly positive results
for the entire command.
State University NROTCU Commanding Officer
ing out the top three positions. Rear
Admiral John W. Goodwin, Commander Naval Air Forces Atlantic,
congratulated all of the teams for
their impressive efforts and presented
the top three finishers with trophies.
The Savannah Council of the Navy
League generously contributed the
$400.00 needed to provided lodging
and food for the SSU NROTC Sailing team while competing in the
University of South Carolina.
Without the generous contribution
of organizations like the Navy
League, the Midshipman Company’s participation in this regatta
would not have been possible. The
SSU NROTC Sailing Team extends a sincere Thank you to the
Savannah Council of the Navy
League for their support.
[Above] Captain Kent Flowers, Commanding Officer, showcases his
holiday spirit just before a Halloween Run through campus. An unidentified Midshipman requested that the unit have an opportunity to conduct
a non-traditional PT session and the request was approved.
[Right] The Midshipman Company poses for a group photo following a
run around campus. On the last Thursday of every month, the Company runs around the University to spread motivation and promote
physical fitness amongst the other students.
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[Above] Midshipman 1/C Robert Cleary concentrates on the proper steps while
participating in the “Cupid Shuffle.” After the ceremony, dinner, and speeches,
Midshipmen spent the remainder of the evening on the dance floor.
[Right] The Midshipman Commanding Officer, MIDN 1/C Jay English presents a
memento to the Guest of Honor, CAPT Tim Daseler, USN.
Midshipman 4/C Ainsley Springer, and CAPT Kent Flowers, the Commanding Officer, share a piece of the traditional birthday cake. It is customary for the oldest member present to share a piece of cake with the yo
oungest member present, symbolizing the passing of history and traditions from one generation to the next. Springer was born November 24, 1990 in Atlanta, Georgia.
Celebrating 233 Years of Servicce
Compiled by the Public Affairs Staff
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“Sound Adjutants Call!” This command from the Adjutant officially commences the Navy and Marine Corps’ Birthday Celebration for the Midshipmen and Staff of the Savannah State University Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) Unit. On
November 7, 2008, nearly 100 active-duty military, Midshipmen,
and their guests gathered to celebrate the 233rd Birthday of both
sea services.
“It is amazing to think that there is someone in most corners of
the world that are celebrating the Birthday of the Navy and Marine Corps,” said MIDN 2/C Danielle Smith. “I feel honored to
be a part of something so big!”
Historically, the Birthday ball is used to commemorate the long
and illustrious past of both services. According to Smith, this
year was no different.
“Celebrating the birthday of the Navy and Marine Corps is very
important to me,” she said.
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“It reinforces all of the traditions we learn about here at the unit.”
During the Birthday Ball, guests enjoyed a Military Ceremony, Dinner,
and Dancing. The ceremony consisted of the presentation of the colors,
a cake cutting ceremony, followed by remarks from the Guest of Honor,
Captain Tim Daseler, Director of Nuclear Programs, (OD-1) NSTC.
“Having a Submarine Captain as our guest of honor was great,” said
MIDN 1/C Robert Cleary. “He did an excellent job reminding us that
we are all in the same fight, regardless of service or community.”
The reading of General John A. LeJeune’s, the Chief of Naval Operations’, and the Commandant of the Marine Corps’ messages are an integral part of the ceremony according to the Midshipman Commanding
Officer.
“Those messages remind us of the bigger picture,” said MIDN 1/C Jay
English. “They [messages] motivate me and reinforce what I am here
for. Leading America’s warriors during a time of war—that is serious
business!”
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[Above] Staff Sergeants Jean Durham and Lynette Ferdinand enjoy a moment of laughter while watching other members of the unit dance.
[Right] The Midshipman Adjutant, MIDN 2/C Elisha Dotson, reads a scroll containing General John A. LeJeune’s Birthday Message. General LeJeune, the Marine Corps’ 13th Commandant, directed that a reminder of the honorable
service of the Corps be published by every command on the Birthday of the Marine Corps.
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Recruiting - Everyone’s responsibility
Pooler Elementary Learn Flag Etiquette MIDN 4/C Ainsley Springer
Contributing Writer
Midshipmen demonstrate proper protocol for folding a flag during a brief at Pooler Elementary
School.
Major Timothy Bradley, USMC
(Ret), former Marine Officer Instructor, Savannah Start University, now a teacher at Pooler Elementary School, is passionate
about making sure young people
learn proper flag etiquette. Every
year since 2005, Maj Bradley has
requested Midshipmen from SSU
NROTC come out to Pooler Elementary to give his class a flag
etiquette class. Midshipman 3/C
Brent Bondurant and Midshipmen
4/C Ainsley Springer, Sean
Randolph and Adrian Chance were
tasked with giving the presentation
this semester.
“First, we discussed what the National Flag symbolizes and then
we explained how it should be
MIDN 4/C Sean Randolph
Contributing Writer
cared for and properly displayed.”
said Midshipman 4/C Chance. The
Midshipmen finished up the presentation by demonstrating the
proper technique of folding the
flag and allowed groups of six
students at a time to practice folding the flag.
“I was amazed by the enthusiasm
of the students and it was interesting to see how quickly they
learned the flag folding technique.” said Midshipman 4/C
Randolph.
“What struck me was the fact that
we were SSU NROTC ambassadors exposing these elementary
school students to the symbol of
our nation and possibly encouraging a few of them to serve as Midshipmen and Naval Officer in the
future." said Midshipman 3/C
Brent Bondurant.
Midshipmen Paint for Funds On October 14, 2008, the
Central High School
NJROTC program from
Phoenix City, Alabama,
came to visit Savannah
State University for a college tour. The tour consisted of a brief by LT.
Dickamore, the freshman
advisor for SSU NROTC,
about the rigors of college
life. The JROTC Unit also
had the chance to speak
with two midshipmen. One
of the Midshipmen was
their former Cadet Commanding Officer, MIDN 4/
C Randolph. The other
Midshipman was also a former cadet officer, MIDN 4/
C Carter. The cadets and
sponsoring parents asked
several key questions about
the life of midshipmen in
the SSU NROTC Program.
Following the question and
answer session, the JROTC
unit enjoyed a tour of our
wonderful by-the-sea university, Savannah State.
Sadly, the day came to an
end and the cadets had to
leave. However, before
their departure, they gathered once more at the
NROTC unit for a debrief
and an opportunity for photographs. Overall, the cadets left with a better understanding of not only university life, but specifically,
life as a Savannah State
University student and Midshipman.
MIDN 4/C Gina Anderson
Contributing Writer
The NROTC Midshipman Company continues to
participate in the City of Savannah Housing Authority’s Beautification & Outreach Program. The program solicits local civic organizations to paint homes
for low income families. When the weather and
their schedules allow, Midshipmen give up their
Saturdays to participate on the house paintings team.
Usually, twelve Midshipmen are assigned to each
painting team. The days starts early, 7:30 a.m. with
breakfast and an assignment briefing. Midshipmen
are then transported to the house painting site.
The Savannah Housing Authority provides the paint
and prepares the exterior of the house to be painted.
The Midshipman Company provide rollers and
paintbrushes. It takes an average of six hours to
paint the entire exterior of the house. Though the
Midshipman Company earns $500.00 per house, the
house painting is unquestionably a community service which fosters civic pride in each individual
Midshipman.
As it turns out, the last house painted this semester
was owned by the elderly father of a Savannah State
University alumnus. The alumnus could not help but
express her gratitude on behalf of her father. She
provided the Midshipmen with a variety of drinks
and snacks, shared her experiences at SSU and provided some much needed comic relief. “This house
painting was challenging; it required a lot of detailing to include a bench, spiraled wrought iron railing,
and trim along the roof,” said Midshipman 1/C Michael Whitaker.
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Midshipman 4/C Gina Anderson [left] and Midshipman 3/C Alyssa Carty paint a bench during a house painting.
Midshipman 4/C Najeeb Carter [left] and Midshipman 1/C Michael Whitaker paint
portions of a house during the Community Relations project.
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Ensign Stuart Nickerson, assistant recruiting officer, escorts cadets from Central High School ’ s
NJROTC Unit. The cadets were given an NROTC brief and toured the campus during their trip.
Midshipmen mentor high school
students during recruiting visit
MIDN
3/C Phillip Williams
__________________
Contributing Writer
When my alma matter, Stephenson High School, came
to visit our unit on campus I
was ecstatic, but also saddened. I was not able to
share insight with them, because of my hectic academic
load.
I met with the new cadet
staff and several cadets that
I had known when I was
enrolled at Stephenson. I
also enjoyed the privilege of
sharing with the Senior Naval Science Instructor, Captain McAdams, USN (Ret.),
who was also my SNSI. I
was extremely grateful for
the iota of time I was
able to spend with the cadets.
The cadets were greeted
with liaisons to escort them
around campus as they enjoyed their introduction to
college life on Savannah
State University’s campus.
Afterwards the cadets
joined us in our normal routine of drill. But this wasn’t
a normal session, “Oh, no!”
This was a great session of
mentorship through conversation and fellowship. It
included a friendly game of
ultimate Frisbee, and a
cookout. Their visit also
propelled me to recall how I
came to be in my present
position. I particularly remember that, as a senior, I
had no idea where I was
heading post high school
graduation. Some of the
present cadets who are juniors and seniors seem to be
in the same dilemma that I
was in. However, through
this trip, those same cadets
were presented with the information to make an informed decision about their
futures.
A student from Stephenson High School ’ s Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps goes for a
pass during a game of Ultimate Frisbee. The unit visited the Midshipman Company to gain a
better understanding about what NROTC life at SSU is all about.
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The Midshipman Company marches during the Homecoming Parade. Historically, the unit demonstrates “ leadership from the front ” and leads the parade.
The NROTC color guard detail marches downtown during the SSU Homecoming Parade.
Midshipmen play hefty role for Homecoming
MIDN 2/C Brent Bondurant
Contributing Writer
U
niversities across the nation decide on a special
day to celebrate the coming “home” of the Alumni and students alike.
This day is traditionally celebrated
during the football season and entails several events taking place
during the week leading up to the
game. This years homecoming
took place during the last week of
October and the actual game was
played on November 1, 2008.
Historically, the Naval Reserve
Officers Training Corps Unit has
played a significant role in the
celebration.
“A few months ago, I was tasked
with going to the Archives Office
[Library] to search for some old
photos of our alum,” said Midshipman 1/C Jay English. “I was sur-
[Above] Six Midshipmen form a sword arch while Miss Savannah State University proceeds to her thrown. Midshipmen have been participating in the
Coronation Ceremony for several years. In addition to the sword detail, the unit also provides a color guard and escorts for the ceremony.
[Right] Miss NROTC, Midshipman 3/C Alyssa Carty is escorted by the Midshipman Commanding Officer, MIDN 1/C Jay English. Miss NROTC is
selected annually by her peers and receives recognition during the Coronation and Homecoming.
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prised to see Midshipmen from the
past few decades participating in
events around campus.”
The ‘events’ English refers to are
the Homecomings, Coronations,
Commencements, Banquets, Color
Guards … to name a few.
“It has been our [NROTC Unit’s]
legacy to support the University
during key events.” English added.
“I used to think no one noticed the
impact we have on the University.”
Continuing the tradition, the Midshipman Company had several
roles in this year’s Homecoming
festivities. The unit marched in the
annual homecoming parade, provided a sword detail for the coronation of Ms. Savannah State University, presented the colors before
the game, and provided food and
refreshments during the tailgating
party. “It’s a lot of work,” said
Midshipmen 3/C Michael Litch-
field. “It is a good opportunity to
show how much attention to detail
we have. Multi-tasking like that
can be difficult,” he added.
According to Midshipman 4/C
Demerrick Moton, understanding
how much was involved in planning events of such magnitude is
very important to him.
“I never realized how much planning is put into events like this,” he
said. “It was a good opportunity
for me to learn the ropes … one
day I’m sure it will be me planning
it all.”
Moton concluded that it is nice to
be able to look back in the archives
and see those who have gone before him.
“I only hope that twenty years
from now another Midshipman
will look us up in the archives and
see how much we have accomplished.
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MILITARY APPRECIATION DAY
Midshipman Company Salutes Savannah Area Veterans
Third Class Cruise:
Career Orientation Training for Midshipmen
MIDN 3/C Joshua Jackson
_________________
Contributing
Writer
____
If someone asked me what the most
interesting thing I have ever done in
my life was, I would gladly tell them it
was CORTRAMID. CORTRAMID,
Career orientation training for Midshipmen, is an introduction to the
“real” Navy and Marine Corps for
scholarship Midshipmen who have
successfully completed their freshmen
year in college.
During CORTRAMID, Midshipmen
participate in training evolutions designed to exposed Midshipmen to the
MIDN 3/C Rebecca Richards
Contributing Writer
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Second Class Cruise:
[Above] The United States Coast Guard completed a flyover in honor of SSU’ s Military Appreciation Day.
On October 2008 the past, present, and
future of our military were brought together to be recognized for their service
to our country. The pre-game show was
kicked-off by a precision fly-over of a
United States Coast Guard helicopter as
the Savannah State University NROTC
Unit Color Guard presented the national
colors.
The game provided the Midshipman
Company the opportunity to generate so
well needed funds by performing parking
support and concessions service. But the
half time show was by far the highlight
for SSU NROTC. The SSU NROTC
Drill Team was asked to kick-off the halftime and they did not disappoint the hundreds of Savannah Area Military members in the stands. Midshipman 3/C Deshawn Aaron led the drill team in an impressive silent exhibition routing that had
the entire stadium on its feet by the end of
the routine.
“That incredibly professional exhibition
of precision and skill is a testament of the
commitment and dedication of the drill
team commander and the drill team member; absolutely impressive!” said Commander Welch Fair Jr., USN (Ret), former Commanding Officer, SSU NROTC
Unit. “We worked our tails off for that
performance. Hearing the crowd clapping as we marched off was a great feeling,” said Midshipman 4/C Justin Ramseur.
various occupation fields in the Navy
and the Marine Corps. The month long
summer training session is broken into
four one-week sessions where the Midshipmen rotate between a Surface Ship
Unit, a Submarine Unit, an Aviation
Unit and a Marine Corps Unit.
The training evolutions that appealed
most to me were the Marine Corps
demolition team and martial arts program. The most enjoyable evolution
though were the opportunities for liberty in Jacksonville, Florida, Virginia
Beach and Downtown Norfolk. I can’t
wait for summer training next year,”
said Midshipman 3/C Darrius Smith.
An account of life under water
[Right] A joint color guard comprised of students from
the Naval ROTC and Army ROTC present the colors
MIDN 2/C Joseph Parsons
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various backgrounds,
Contributing Writer
______
different personalities,
during the playing of the National Anthem.
Savannah State University ’ s Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps ’ Drill Team, comprised of nearly ninety percent freshmen take
the field during Savannah State University ’ s Military Appreciation Half-time show to give honors to those serving, having served, and
those who desire to serve.
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This summer my second class cruise took
me to the beautiful isle
of Hawaii, where I
took a small boat to
the submarine USS
PENNSYLVANIA.
We ran on eighteen
hour days. Over the
course of the next
eight weeks I worked
my way around the
boat making new
friends and working
on qualifications. By
the end of the run, I
was qualified as
Helms and Planes,
which means I am
qualified to drive a
billion dollar submarine. My experience
on the boat was as interesting as the people.
The people were awesome. They are just
like you or me: from
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and very intelligent. On
a submarine everyone is
a Damage Control specialist. This practice
allows the crew to prevent and treat casualties
with speed and efficiency. Everyone’s
knowledge of the boat
allows them to understand how to treat and
isolate problems. The
interaction with the
crew has allowed me to
understand the life of
enlisted men and embody a deep respect for
them. Ninety-eight percent of my cruise was
spent underwater. My
only view of outside
was through the periscope. It was a different
environment than what
I was used to. The personnel aboard a submarine are one of a kind.
MIDN 3/C Darrius Smith and MIDN 3/C Joshua Jackson pause for hydration during
CORTRAMID East's Marine Week
First Class Cruise:
Midshipman swings with the wing
MIDN 1/C Robert Cleary
_________________
Contributing Writer
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During my summer cruise I learned a great deal about how the
aviation community of the Navy operates. I was met by my lieutenant escort in the airport upon my arrival to Norfolk, Va. The
aviation community is a very laid back environment and was a
very rewarding experience.
I truly believe that a midshipman can have a blast on their summer training evolution, as long as they put forth the effort to
learn as much as possible.
For instance, my lieutenant was not putting me on the flight
schedule when I first arrived there. So, I out branched to different squadrons to ensure that I received flight time. I caught a
flight with a squadron of C-2, the Navy’s mail-carrier plane, in
which we conducted fly-by and touch-and-goes. Touch-andgoes consisted of the pilot flying by the runway and decreasing
elevation as if to land. However, just as the wheels touch the
deck the pilot increases speed and flies back around for another
pass.
After word got back to my lieutenant that his midshipman protégés were getting flights with other squadrons, we were put on
the flight schedule. Overall, I received approximately twentyfive minutes of flight time on the MH-53E. It was an amazing
experience that a normal, twenty-one year old, college student
would never be able to experience. Thanks to the NROTCU I
have become more developed and more mature, due to an exciting time in Norfolk, Va.
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vercoming fears becomes
b
part of training
MIDN
1/C Robert Cleary
_________________
Contributing Writer
As a preview of what to come next
semester when the physical Training
(PT) will be ramped up in order to
prepare the Midshipman Company
for summer training, The Marine
staff took the Midshipman to Fort
Stewart, an Army base approximately 50 miles southwest of Savannah, to run the confidence
course. During the hour long drive
to Fort Stewart, a few Midshipmen
were excited, but most were nervous
with anticipation of the “dreaded”
confidence course.
At Fort Stewart, following a short
safety brief, the Marine Staff separated the Midshipman Company into
two groups and demonstrated each
obstacle starting at opposite ends of
the course.
Finally it was time for the safety
corpsman in place, it was time for
the Midshipmen to negotiate the
course. From the first obstacle, it
was clear that every Midshipman
would be challenged significantly.
Some Midshipmen succumbed to
the pain of the rope climb, while
others could not muster up the courage to attempt the 40-foot A-frame.
The one obstacle which proved to be
most challenging was the “weaver.”
T o conquer the weaver, Midshipmen were required to negotiate a
series of graduated log obstacles
arrange in an inverted “V” formation weaving over and under each
successive log without touching the
ground. Evidence of the beating
was revealed during the long drive
back to Savannah: not a single Midshipman was awake.
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Midshipman 1/C Michael Whitaker grits his teeth as he demonstrates the proper procedure for negotiating the “ monkey bars ” obstacle.
[Left] Midshipman 4/C Ainsley Springer heaves himself up a cargo net. The purpose of an obstacle
course is to challenge individuals physically and mentally. Midshipmen are required to overcome their
fears and have confidence in themselves.
Midshipmen pose for a photo while hanging on a 40-foot cargo net located on Fort Stewart, Ga. The cargo net was one of seventeen obstacles negotiated by students.
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[Above] Midshipman 2/C Danielle Smith gets her nails dirty as she traverses a barbed-wire obstacle.
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