MMA Community Shares Thanks

This Thanksgiving, we thank those who help our cadets grow into young men of character and purpose. 

From the care and instruction of our teachers, coaches, company leadership advisors and staff ... to our partnership with parents as we teach our young men to take command of their lives ... to our alumni whose support is vital to our cadets' success ... to our cadet leaders who are learning the positive impact they can have on others ... We are grateful for the MMA family working together to help young men reach their full potential.

We recently asked cadets, families, alumni, friends, faculty, and staff who they are most thankful at MMA and in their families. Read on to see what they said.

Click the links below to jump to each section:

• Thanksgiving Remarks from Cadets
• Thanksgiving Remarks from Families
• Thanksgiving Remarks from Alumni
• Thanksgiving Remarks from Employees

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Thanksgiving Remarks from Cadets

“As Thanksgiving is coming up, I just wanted to take a moment to say thank you to the amazing people in my life, especially my family. To my mom, thank you for always being there and believing in me. Your support means everything and pushes me to do my best. I also want to give a big shout-out to my coaches and teachers. You have taught me so much and helped me grow more than I ever thought possible. Your guidance and encouragement have made a huge difference in my life. Looking back on this past year, I can really see how far I’ve come, not just in my skills, but as a person, too. The lessons I’ve learned from my family, coaches, and teachers have helped me so much. So, this Thanksgiving, I just want to say I'm super grateful for all of you. Thanks for being part of my life and making my life feel like home. Happy Thanksgiving!”
— MMA Cadet Tegan Compton ’28 from Lebanon, IL

 

“I’ve been at MMA going on 5 years now, and I’ve witnessed a tremendous amount of change through the guidance of teachers, CLAs, coaches, and cadet leaders that have helped shape me into a better man of character and the leader that I am today. I am also thankful for my parents for being able to provide this great opportunity to come to MMA, as it has provided me a once-in-a-lifetime experience that I will never forget. I also want to thank my cadet brothers alongside me, as I have made great friends and memories that I will continue to cherish for years to come.”
— MMA Cadet Tru Jones ’27 from Lee’s Summit, MO

 

“I'm thankful for Coach Padilla, Class of 2015, for never giving up on me.”
— MMA Cadet Eli Mumm ’30 from Mexico, MO

 

“Actions beat words. Practices beat words. That’s exactly what 1SG Blue W. shows every day — holding us to the highest standard and inspiring us to be model cadets.”
— MMA Cadet Daniel Bravo ’27 from Dublin, CA

“The things I am most grateful for are the teachers who have helped me with my assignments, my fellow cadets whom I have befriended, and also my parents who have cheered me on, even when I was living in Delta [as a new boy] for those two weeks.”
— MMA Cadet James Farnell ’29 from Mexico, MO

 

“I am thankful for my entire family.”
— MMA Cadet Lukas Joiner’26 from Sullivan, MO

 

“I'm thankful for my grandfather and my family.”
— MMA Cadet Dante Cohen ’28 from Aurora, MO

 

“I am thankful for God and this opportunity He gave me and for the sacrifice of His son for our life. I am thankful for my family, who helped me and supported me, just like my friends.”
— MMA Cadet Michael Lucas Dias Reboucas ’27 from Barreiras, Brazil

 

“Creed Martin was very helpful while I was still a new boy. He still helps me to this day with stuff.”
— MMA Cadet Sean Mulcahy ’30 from Lenexa, KS

 

“I am thankful for my parents, friends, and Garrison SGM Mott.”
— MMA Cadet Jordan Milzark ’28 from Lexington, KY

 

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Thanksgiving Remarks from Families

“I am thankful for Mr. Eric Evertson … Mr. Evertson has been such an encouragement to [my cadet] and has made his transition so much easier. I am thankful for his kind leadership and the way he makes the 13 hours between us and our son not seem so far. I feel that the positive influence he has made on my son will last a lifetime.”
— Laura Guillory, Parent of Cadet Bryson Guillory ’30, from Lake Charles, LA

“We would like to thank Mrs. Emminger for her unwavering commitment to wanting our cadet to succeed. She goes out of her way to ensure his needs are met academically, socially, and even spiritually. Thank you, Mrs. Emminger, for partnering with us in our cadet's success!”
— Sam and Emily Mathews, Parents of Cadet Christian Mathews ’30, from Ozark, MO

 

“Thank you, MMA, for welcoming Michael so well. All the staff are a blessing in his life. Thank you so much!”
— Manoel Santana Reboucas, Parent of Cadet Michael Lucas Dias Reboucas ’27 from Barreiras, Brazil

 

“Peggy Reynard, thank you so much for everything you've done for my son Oscar's academic development. He always tells me about you and what a wonderful person you are to him. Thank you for the work you do at MMA for everyone. Also, Rodrigo Padilla, I really appreciate you looking out for Oscar, talking with him, and encouraging his development at MMA. Thank you also for always being available for us as parents; you're an excellent person.”
— Linda Rubio, Parent of Cadet Oscar Carbajal ’29, from Mexico

“Dear Matthias, the Iwakami family want to express our heartfelt gratitude for all the support, dedication, and care you have always shown us. During the most challenging moments of leaving my son at Missouri Military Academy, you encouraged me, brought me comfort, and showed that we could always count on you. Thank you for responding to every need with kindness, patience, and genuine humanity. May God continue to bless you and your family, and may the very best always come your way. Please receive our warm appreciation and sincere thanks!”
— Family of Cadet Glauco Iwakami ’26 from Holambra, Brazil

 

“I am so thankful for my cadet’s CLAs in Charlie Company and for all my cadet’s teachers, coaches, and staff at MMA. Thank you for your dedication to teaching, mentorship, and leadership. Your guidance, wisdom, and passion have shaped my son’s character and discipline, making him become the best version of himself. Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!”
— Joy Heady, Parent of Cadet Charles Heady ’29, from Linden, IA

“I'm thankful for Team JMichael and all of those who support it and are a part of it. Team JMichael is everyone who has touched my son, not only this year but since he came to MMA. I'm overjoyed at his growth and accomplishments and thankful. Thanks to everyone who has encouraged him, even in the smallest way.”
— Family of Jesus Robinson ’26 from Shiller Park, IL

 

“I am grateful that Michael Koontz helped my son enroll at MMA. He is very patient and nice, and I am so glad we made the right decision. My son has gained confidence through MMA’s education, which he has never had in the past.”
— Shu Zhang, Parent of Cadet Heshun Xiao ’26, from Troy, MI

 

“Rodrigo Padilla, your help during the admission process has been invaluable to us as a family and has made Javier feel supported throughout these weeks. We are thankful for everything you’ve done and for going above and beyond.”
— Family of Cadet Javier Jimenez Klerian ’28 from Spring, TX

 

“Ms. Lana in the medical clinic has gone above and beyond for my cadet, and I’m super thankful for her. Her compassion and kindness for all the kids shine through at every interaction, and I’m so happy to have her looking after my cadet when it comes to his health needs.”
— Jessica Reid, Parent of Cadet Drake Reid ’28, from North Muskegon, MI

“Mike Hamilton and the Sage Dining crew do an amazing job of providing cadets with healthy and filling meal choices. When they host parents, alumni, the community, and prepare for special events, the food is expertly prepared, smartly presented, and appealing and tasty. Cadets may not always appreciate how good they have it, but the big and never-ending job of feeding a Corps of Cadets daily is something to behold. They are equal to the task, and the team cares a great deal about doing it right. Chef Mike and his crew make each day special in some way.

Mike Kulas works hard behind the scenes to give MMA events, sports, and cadet life a professional and polished look and feel. He’s calm under pressure and works with a smile and a dedication to a job well done. His work makes everyone look good, and things run smoothly.

Thankful for Jenny O’Donley, helping spread the message about the great things cadets are doing on and off campus. Jenny is always thinking about ways to recognize and share the MMA story. The unique and special nature of campus and the Corps means there are dozens of stories to tell, and she does a great job with many different audiences and cultures.

Cadet Levey, the announcer. It’s been fun to watch him learn and grow into MMA’s announcer for soccer games, and I look forward to his skills growing with time. His enthusiasm and excitement are great skills, and his delivery makes fans pay attention and have a great experience at Colonels Field.

Matt Jackson is a great asset to the Academy. When I am at any Academy event, I can relax and enjoy those moments without my phone in my hand, because I know Matt will catch those special moments. His photos really get at the heart of MMA’s mission, to watch these young men become masters of their own fate. From fun times to the Crucible, athletics to the dining hall, and classroom to Christmas parties, Matt’s hard work shines by giving everyone a front-row seat to these cadets’ growth and development. It’s been fun to watch him mentor and coach a cadet intern this semester, too. Matt represents the Academy’s service to its students, and he works with obvious talent, joy, and a friendly attitude.

Athletic Director Brian Meny is a tireless advocate for cadets and their success. He has high expectations and makes sure cadets give their best. He has put on so many miles cheering and boosting MMA student-athletes, sometimes attending multiple events in one evening. He’s all business when it comes to fair play, sportsmanship, and all-out effort. MMA’s cadets get love and the truth from Coach Meny every day, and anyone can see his joy at watching cadets improve in the classroom as well as on the courts or fields. For those cadets who are far from home, he’s been a mentor and confidante, and always puts the cadet first.

Thankful for Chad Miller for his math and science classroom teaching. He has made physics understandable and has thorough and reasonable explanations. He’s willing to help tutor and mentor cadets, whether in his classes or not, because he cares about cadet learning and math. Cadets seek him out for his demeanor and guidance.

Our family is thankful for Chief Jason Landrum for his dedication to making technical subjects relatable, approachable, and learnable for his cadets. Chief cares deeply about reaching Cyber Cadets and helping all cadets succeed. Although he's extremely busy with CIO duties, coaching, advising, and teaching, Chief makes time to build personal relationships as an educator, mentor, and trusted voice for each cadet who seeks it out. Chief challenges cadets constantly, using the right mix of humor, motivation, fun, and emotion to help each cadet get the most out of his experience. He lives the MMA motto daily and serves our cadets with love, honor, and truth.”

— Jacob Shellabarger, Parent of Cadet Eric Shellabarger ’27 from Mexico, MO

 

"MMA has been the turning point, the answer to many years of prayer. But MMA’s success isn’t in the buildings or the uniforms; it’s in the hearts and dedication of its staff. These are some of the finest people I have ever met, and my family is deeply grateful for each and every one of them. 

Two men, in particular, have profoundly impacted my son’s life: Major Doug Wright and CW4 Jason Landrum, USA (Ret). As a man of faith, I’ve put my full trust in the Lord Jesus Christ to care for, direct, lead, mentor, and equip my son to become a man, even when I cannot be as hands-on as I’d like to be. We serve a triune God — Father, Son, and Holy Spirit — and I’ve often reflected on how that truth has been mirrored in Tru’s journey at MMA.

In many ways, I see my role as that of the Holy Spirit — not always visible, but ever present in prayer, holding things together even in moments of fear or uncertainty. 

I view Major Doug Wright as a reflection of God the Father. Since day one, Doug has had a broad, patient, and steady view of Tru’s growth and success. His phone calls during those early, difficult days meant more than words can express. He gave Tru responsibilities that often stretched him beyond his comfort zone, teaching him through both victories and failures. Doug became a sounding board for Tru, especially as my son learned about leadership, patience, and perseverance — skills that now serve him well as Executive Officer. 

And I see CW4 Jason Landrum as representing God the Son — walking alongside Tru every day. Sometimes he’s out front, cheering him on; other times, beside him, guiding him through challenges; and occasionally, right behind him, giving him that well-timed kick in the pants to push him forward. Jason “has Tru’s number,” and Tru respects him deeply. 

Without these two men — Major Wright and CW4 Landrum — Tru would not be where he is today. They have helped shape him into a leader, a young man of strength, and a cadet with purpose. I love my son with all my heart, and I could not be prouder of his hard work, growth, and determination. 

To all the men and women who make MMA what it is, especially Major Doug Wright and CW4 Jason Landrum, please accept my heartfelt thanks. You have made an eternal difference in the life of my son and I am forever grateful!"  

— Larry Jones, Parent of Cadet Tru Jones ’27 from Lee’s Summit, MO

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Thanksgiving Remarks from Alumni

“My favorite instructor was Col. Smith, our business/accounting teacher. He showed not only leadership, but he and his wife invited cadets to their home for a home-cooked meal. I had never heard of ‘Saturday Night Live’ until I watched it with them.”
— Mark Gelino, MMA Class of 1979

 

“LTC Churches and Col. McClure made the biggest impact on my time at MMA. There are plenty of others who impacted my growth at MMA, but these two men are still in my thoughts today.”
— Jim Obenshain, MMA Class of 1986

 

“Whenever I think of MMA, there are a lot of different memories and emotions that rise up. The ones that help me the most are overcoming fear and stepping out of our comfort zone, proof that it can be done. Encouraging perseverance or stick-to-itiveness from most faculty is what I'm most thankful for. Most notably, Col. Mortenson, SMA Whitworth, Cpt. Bradford, and the Military Department. I hope today's cadets can come away with a positive experience that helps them shape their futures. May they be bright and fulfilling.”
— Jeff Mattingly, MMA Class of 1978

 

“Paul Baum was an outstanding teacher. Both of my sons, Steven C. Berry and Thomas A. Berry, were able to test out of the language requirement at The University of Chicago as a result of Paul’s Spanish classes. He was a remarkable teacher.”
— Tom Berry, Class of 1959

 

“Maj. Piper: Jr. School Commandant. Cpt. Rockwell: Drama teacher and freshman English instructor. Cpt. Baum ‘Pablo’: Jr. English instructor. Col. McClure: Senior SAI.”
— Richard Cooper, MMA Class of 1982

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Thanksgiving Remarks from Employees

“As cliché as it may sound, I am continually thankful for the classes I teach this semester. These classes — piano private instruction, advisory, and algebra — all have bright and inquisitive cadets with admirable character attributes. Their inquisitive nature, humor, and out-of-the-box thinking are a daily source of inspiration to me.”
— Stephen Maziarz, MMA Fine Arts & Mathematics Instructor

 

“He always has my back and comes up with great ideas for practice. Thank you, Mr. Werner.”
— Jeffrey Lycett, MMA Business Instructor, Head Cross Country Coach

 

“I am thankful for Kordel Moore.”
— Matthew Seibert, MMA Company Leadership Advisor

 

“I’m incredibly grateful for Melba Lackey. She has taken over several of my duties and helped out with the English department a ton while I’ve been on maternity leave. She is organized, prompt, and thorough in her help, which I sincerely appreciate. I couldn’t do this without her support and dedication! Thank you from the bottom of my heart, Melba!”
— Danielle DeTienne, MMA Instructor & ELA/FL/ELL Department Chair

 

“All areas are GREAT! I am super thankful for all. Bernie and Adam are always at the top of my list. MAJ Welander and Kim Russell are lifesavers. If I had to thank someone in particular — Rodrigo Padilla. My friend, mentor, and inspirational leader without a doubt is LTC Greg Seibert.”
— Paul Petit, MMA Mexico Enrollment Coordinator