November 2023
Jennifer Manley graduated from Susquenita High School in 2001. While attending Susquenita High
School, Jennifer was a member of the softball and field hockey teams. During her junior year of high
school, Jennifer enlisted in the Pennsylvania Army National Guard(PAARNG). She graduated from Basic
Training at Fort Jackson, SC in 2000. Jennifer attended Advanced Individual Training to become a medic in 2001 from Fort Sam Houston, TX. Upon her return from Army training, she enrolled at Millersville University. She was deployed to Iraq in 2005, where she served as a medic with the 28ID 2IBCT during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Jennifer was awarded the Combat Medic Badge for her efforts. Returning from Iraq, she completed the Dental Assistant program at Harrisburg Area Community College. She went on to work for the Pennsylvania Army National Guard in the Federal Military Technician program as a Budget Analyst. Eventually, Jennifer transitioned to the AGR program in the PAARNG as a Resource
Management non-commissioned officer. She medically retired from the PAARNG in January 2022 at the rank of Sergeant First Class(SFC). Jennifer now works for the Department of the Navy as a Financial Management Analyst.
Jennifer currently resides in Duncannon with her 2 children, Samuel and Bianca. She assists with
coaching the SAYFH 4 th /5 th grade teams. When Jennifer isn’t attending her children’s sporting events, she serves as the American Legion Post 340 Adjutant and Service Officer. She enjoys spending a lot of her time with family and friends.
School, Jennifer was a member of the softball and field hockey teams. During her junior year of high
school, Jennifer enlisted in the Pennsylvania Army National Guard(PAARNG). She graduated from Basic
Training at Fort Jackson, SC in 2000. Jennifer attended Advanced Individual Training to become a medic in 2001 from Fort Sam Houston, TX. Upon her return from Army training, she enrolled at Millersville University. She was deployed to Iraq in 2005, where she served as a medic with the 28ID 2IBCT during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Jennifer was awarded the Combat Medic Badge for her efforts. Returning from Iraq, she completed the Dental Assistant program at Harrisburg Area Community College. She went on to work for the Pennsylvania Army National Guard in the Federal Military Technician program as a Budget Analyst. Eventually, Jennifer transitioned to the AGR program in the PAARNG as a Resource
Management non-commissioned officer. She medically retired from the PAARNG in January 2022 at the rank of Sergeant First Class(SFC). Jennifer now works for the Department of the Navy as a Financial Management Analyst.
Jennifer currently resides in Duncannon with her 2 children, Samuel and Bianca. She assists with
coaching the SAYFH 4 th /5 th grade teams. When Jennifer isn’t attending her children’s sporting events, she serves as the American Legion Post 340 Adjutant and Service Officer. She enjoys spending a lot of her time with family and friends.
October 2023
Travis Kauffman graduated Susquenita High School in 2006. While attending Susquenita High School, Travis was a senior class representative who also participated in Track and Field and the spirit band. During his senior year, Travis enlisted in the United States Army Reserves and left for Basic Training in July of 2006.
Travis completed his Basic Training and Advanced Individual Training as an All-Source Intelligence Analyst in February 2007, and quickly left for his first deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Subsequent deployments include Afghanistan in Support of Operation Enduring Freedom in 2011 and Syria and Iraq in support of Operation New Inherent Resolve in 2016. Currently, Travis is the battalion logistics non-commissioned officer in charge for the 1185 th Deployment Distribution Support Battalion out of Lancaster, PA and holds the rank of Staff Sergeant.
In January 2020, Travis enrolled in classes at Central Penn College while working full time at Equipment Concentration Site 24 at Fort Indiantown Gap. During his time at Central Penn College Travis was the Vice President of the Armed Forces Association, was awarded the 2021 intern of the year award, and led his team to win the global Glo-Bus Business Simulation competition. Travis’ hard work as an adult learner and full time professional with a family also led Central Penn College to approach Travis to be a part of their marketing campaign which included a commercial, podcast interview, and multiple social media advertisements.
While attending classes at Central Penn College, Travis transitioned to work for Vibra Healthcare as a Corporate Materials Manager for 37 healthcare facilities around the nation. Upon graduating in December 2022 with his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Travis once again returned to federal service as an Inventory Management Specialist with the Naval Supply Systems Command – Weapon Systems Support, supporting the American Naval Fleet.
During his downtime, Travis enjoys spending time with his two sons, ages 9 and 7 by engaging in a variety of hobbies that can be as simple as playing video games or training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu together.
Travis completed his Basic Training and Advanced Individual Training as an All-Source Intelligence Analyst in February 2007, and quickly left for his first deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Subsequent deployments include Afghanistan in Support of Operation Enduring Freedom in 2011 and Syria and Iraq in support of Operation New Inherent Resolve in 2016. Currently, Travis is the battalion logistics non-commissioned officer in charge for the 1185 th Deployment Distribution Support Battalion out of Lancaster, PA and holds the rank of Staff Sergeant.
In January 2020, Travis enrolled in classes at Central Penn College while working full time at Equipment Concentration Site 24 at Fort Indiantown Gap. During his time at Central Penn College Travis was the Vice President of the Armed Forces Association, was awarded the 2021 intern of the year award, and led his team to win the global Glo-Bus Business Simulation competition. Travis’ hard work as an adult learner and full time professional with a family also led Central Penn College to approach Travis to be a part of their marketing campaign which included a commercial, podcast interview, and multiple social media advertisements.
While attending classes at Central Penn College, Travis transitioned to work for Vibra Healthcare as a Corporate Materials Manager for 37 healthcare facilities around the nation. Upon graduating in December 2022 with his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Travis once again returned to federal service as an Inventory Management Specialist with the Naval Supply Systems Command – Weapon Systems Support, supporting the American Naval Fleet.
During his downtime, Travis enjoys spending time with his two sons, ages 9 and 7 by engaging in a variety of hobbies that can be as simple as playing video games or training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu together.
September 2023
Sean Day graduated in 2006 from Susquenita School District. During his time at Susquenita he was a member of the Track and Field team and captain of the varsity soccer team. After graduation Sean pursued a career in law enforcement, attending Harrisburg Area Community College for criminal justice. During this time, he decided to join the United States Army Reserves Military Police.
In 2007 Sean completed basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri and was subsequently deployed to Iraq in 2007 and Afghanistan in 2013 in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. During this time his mission in the military shifted from Military Police operations and he was reclassified to a Detention Specialist or Corrections Officer. Sean has also been deployed to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba in support of the detention operations there. The first deployment was in 2016 and the second in 2023.
Sean is still actively serving in the United States Army Reserve at the rank of Staff Sergeant with 16 years of service. During this time, he has worked in law enforcement as a county correctional officer for Perry County Prison for 3 years and with the Pennsylvania State Department of Corrections for the last 11 years.
In 2015 Sean married his high school sweetheart Alexandra Shull who graduated from Susquenita School District in 2007. Sean and Alexandra have two children Evelyn and Tegan. Evelyn is currently attending Susquenita Middle School. Her sister Tegan will be attending the elementary school soon.
In 2007 Sean completed basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri and was subsequently deployed to Iraq in 2007 and Afghanistan in 2013 in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. During this time his mission in the military shifted from Military Police operations and he was reclassified to a Detention Specialist or Corrections Officer. Sean has also been deployed to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba in support of the detention operations there. The first deployment was in 2016 and the second in 2023.
Sean is still actively serving in the United States Army Reserve at the rank of Staff Sergeant with 16 years of service. During this time, he has worked in law enforcement as a county correctional officer for Perry County Prison for 3 years and with the Pennsylvania State Department of Corrections for the last 11 years.
In 2015 Sean married his high school sweetheart Alexandra Shull who graduated from Susquenita School District in 2007. Sean and Alexandra have two children Evelyn and Tegan. Evelyn is currently attending Susquenita Middle School. Her sister Tegan will be attending the elementary school soon.
August 2023
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Anthony Klase graduated in 1998 from Susquenita School District. During his time at Susquenita he was a member of the Cross Country Team and Track and Feild Team.
After graduation Anthony pursued a career as an Electrician. Then decided to join the
United States Marine Corps Reserve.
From 2000- 2003 Klase trained/deployed all over the United States and the World. Some of the places he trained in were, California several times and locations, North and South Carolina, and other locations. Some places he's been to around the world include Japan, Portugal, Aruba, Spain and several other locations. In 2002 Klase deployed in response to Operation Enduring Freedom and in 2003 he was deployed to Iraq for Operation Iraqi Freedom were he received numerous awards and accolades.
Klase stayed in the Marines until 2008 where he gained the rank of Sergeant. He then transferred to the United States Navy Reserve for another 6 years and then medically discharging in 2014. During this time Klase worked as a Federal Police Officer until 2021 when he retired from the government.
He now works as an Emergency Response Specialist for Lewis Environmental. He responds to all types of hazardous accidents from oil spills in the Gulf to electrical transformers leaking in someone's yard.
In 2001 Anthony met his now wife Heather Benner Klase of 21 years who also graduated in '94 from Susquenita. Together they have 3 sons- two step children, Chris and Brandon. one son of their own, Hayon Klase, who is very active in Baseball and is now a senior in the Susquenita School District.
After graduation Anthony pursued a career as an Electrician. Then decided to join the
United States Marine Corps Reserve.
From 2000- 2003 Klase trained/deployed all over the United States and the World. Some of the places he trained in were, California several times and locations, North and South Carolina, and other locations. Some places he's been to around the world include Japan, Portugal, Aruba, Spain and several other locations. In 2002 Klase deployed in response to Operation Enduring Freedom and in 2003 he was deployed to Iraq for Operation Iraqi Freedom were he received numerous awards and accolades.
Klase stayed in the Marines until 2008 where he gained the rank of Sergeant. He then transferred to the United States Navy Reserve for another 6 years and then medically discharging in 2014. During this time Klase worked as a Federal Police Officer until 2021 when he retired from the government.
He now works as an Emergency Response Specialist for Lewis Environmental. He responds to all types of hazardous accidents from oil spills in the Gulf to electrical transformers leaking in someone's yard.
In 2001 Anthony met his now wife Heather Benner Klase of 21 years who also graduated in '94 from Susquenita. Together they have 3 sons- two step children, Chris and Brandon. one son of their own, Hayon Klase, who is very active in Baseball and is now a senior in the Susquenita School District.
July 2023
Jake Dyer graduated from Susquenita High School in 1999. While attending SHS, he participated in football (Captain), was a State-qualifier in track and field for pole vault and the ‘6th Man’ for Basketball as well an inductee to the National Honor Society and John Travers award nominee.
Upon graduating High School, Jake deferred his acceptance to the University of Rochester for one year while he enlisted in the US Army. While at basic training, Jake graduated as honor graduate and after attending Advanced Individual Training (AIT), returned home to Marysville awaiting the start of the 2000 school year. Prior to starting College, Jake was named Military Traffic Management Command Soldier of the Year.
Jake attended the University of Rochester with an Army ROTC scholarship majoring in Mechanical Engineering with a minor in Business. He graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Rochester and was commissioned as the distinguished military graduate.
Upon graduation, Jake was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the quartermaster branch and assigned to the United States Army Reserve USAR in York, PA. While serving in the USAR, he was deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom from 2006-2008, and Operation Enduring Freedom from 2011-2013. While simultaneously serving in the USAR, Jake held positions with Tyco Electronics as a Development Engineer and later as a Project Manager and the Director of Strategy and Innovation at United Concordia Dental.
Jake earned the rank of Major and in 2016 decided to continue serving on Active Duty with the United States Public Health Service (USPHS)1. Jake is currently a Lieutenant Commander with the USPHS and assigned to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) where he is a Medical Device Specialist and works on the FDA’s international medical device program.
During his service, he was awarded a Bronze Star, a Meritorious Service Medal, an Outstanding Service Medal, two Army commendation Medals, three Army Achievement Medals. Jake also successfully completed Airborne school and holds the German Armed Forces Proficiency Badge – Gold Level.
Jake lives in Mechanicsburg with his wife (and high school sweetheart), Courtney (Albright), and two children, Noah and Molly. Additionally, Jake holds a Professional Engineer (PE) license and has a Master of Science Degree in Data Analytics.
1 The United States Public Health Service (USPHS) is one of the eight uniformed services. The primary mission of the USPHS is to advance public health through various activities such as providing medical care, conducting research, and responding to public health emergencies. The USPHS is led by the Surgeon General, who serves as the chief medical advisor to the President and the Secretary of Health and Human Services.
June 2023
Anthony Kapp was born in 1989 in Fort Knox, Kentucky. His family moved to the Susquenita school district when he was in the 5th grade. Mr. Kapp was a four-year letterman in sports like soccer and track at Susquenita High School. He graduated in the year 2008 from Susquenita and went off to college at Marywood University shortly thereafter. After not achieving his degree, Anthony then enlisted in the Active Duty Army in the year 2014. He then left for basic training at Ft. Jackson in South Carolina and his job training as an Artilleryman at Ft. Sill Oklahoma.
After his training was over Private Kapp was then sent to Ft. Hood Texas as his first duty station. While in Ft. Hood Anthony got married to his wife Ashlyn. During his time at Ft. Hood, Private Kapp deployed to South Korea where his unit was the first ever unit to be sent on a deployment to South Korea since the Korean War. After returning back to Ft. Hood, Specialist Kapp was sent on a permanent change of station to Ft Lewis Washington. While there Anthony was promoted to Sergeant and Staff Sergeant. Also, while in Ft. Lewis Anthony and Ashlyn welcomed their son Brantley into this world.
Anthony then received a great opportunity and was asked to attend the Army Airborne school where he learned to jump out of airplanes. Immediately after his graduation of Airborne School, Anthony and his family changed duty stations again and were granted the wonderful opportunity to be stationed in Grafenwoehr, Germany. While there, Anthony accumulated 10 airborne jumps, but was injured during an Airborne Operation and was ultimately Medically separated from the military after 8 years of service. His medals and awards include: The national Defense Service Medal, 8 Army Accommodation Medals, 2 Good Conduct Medals, 2 Overseas Ribbons, the Korean Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Medal, Parachutist badge and the British Parachutist badge.
Currently Mr. Kapp is a Middle School social studies teacher at Capital Academy in Harrisburg Pa. Anthony and his family currently live in the Harrisburg area. He is the coach for his sons U6 soccer team and his biggest hobbies include anything PSU sports, spending time with his family and friends, and watching his son grow.
May 2023
Joel Kostelac is a 1993 graduate of Susquenita. He played soccer, basketball and ran track and field, as well as participated in a variety of academic clubs and organizations including serving as the President of the National Honor Society. Upon graduation, Joel attended Lehigh University in Bethlehem, Pa and earned a Bachelors of Science in Civil Engineering while on an four – year Army ROTC scholarship. In addition to his BSCE, he was commissioned in the Army as 2nd Lieutenant, serving as an Infantry Officer.
During his nearly eight years on active duty in the Army, Joel served in the 10th Mountain Division, and 82nd Airborne Division and held positions of Rifle Platoon Leader, Anti-tank Platoon Leader, Company Executive Officer, Division Planner, Assistant Operations Officer, and Airborne Rifle Company Commander. Joel’s awards and decorations include the Parachutists Badge, the Air Assault Badge, the Ranger Tab, the Expert Infantryman’s Badge, the Combat Infantryman’s Badge, multiple Army Achievement Medals, Army Commendation Medals, a Meritorious Service Medals, and two Bronze Stars. He was deployed in peace enforcement operations in the Sinai, Egypt (the Multinational Force and Observers), as well as combat operations in both Afghanistan and Iraq.
Joel left the military in 2005 and returned to central Pennsylvania getting re-engaged in engineering. Since that time, he has earned a Masters of Engineering in Environmental Engineering from Penn State Harrisburg and has worked in engineering consulting for many municipal and private water and wastewater utilities. Currently, Joel is the Business Group Leader for Water and Wastewater Treatment for the northeast region of GHD, and global multi-disciplinary engineering services firm.
He has been married to Shannon Kostelac (Benner) – also a 1993 SHS graduate, since 2000 and has two teenage sons, Drew and Colby and lives in Mechanicsburg. Drew will be graduating this spring and Colby is a sophomore at Mechanicsburg High School. Joel still enjoys mountain biking with his SHS riding buddies, running, hiking and exploring the outdoors with his family.
During his nearly eight years on active duty in the Army, Joel served in the 10th Mountain Division, and 82nd Airborne Division and held positions of Rifle Platoon Leader, Anti-tank Platoon Leader, Company Executive Officer, Division Planner, Assistant Operations Officer, and Airborne Rifle Company Commander. Joel’s awards and decorations include the Parachutists Badge, the Air Assault Badge, the Ranger Tab, the Expert Infantryman’s Badge, the Combat Infantryman’s Badge, multiple Army Achievement Medals, Army Commendation Medals, a Meritorious Service Medals, and two Bronze Stars. He was deployed in peace enforcement operations in the Sinai, Egypt (the Multinational Force and Observers), as well as combat operations in both Afghanistan and Iraq.
Joel left the military in 2005 and returned to central Pennsylvania getting re-engaged in engineering. Since that time, he has earned a Masters of Engineering in Environmental Engineering from Penn State Harrisburg and has worked in engineering consulting for many municipal and private water and wastewater utilities. Currently, Joel is the Business Group Leader for Water and Wastewater Treatment for the northeast region of GHD, and global multi-disciplinary engineering services firm.
He has been married to Shannon Kostelac (Benner) – also a 1993 SHS graduate, since 2000 and has two teenage sons, Drew and Colby and lives in Mechanicsburg. Drew will be graduating this spring and Colby is a sophomore at Mechanicsburg High School. Joel still enjoys mountain biking with his SHS riding buddies, running, hiking and exploring the outdoors with his family.
April 2023
Mark Gilday graduated from SHS in 1989, lettering in both Cross Country and Wrestling. Upon graduation, Mark attended Penn State University, Mont Alto campus, and then Capital campus Now Penn State-Harrisburg) where he graduated earning a B.S. Degree in Environmental Engineering Technology.
In 1993, between his junior and senior years of college, Mark was accepted to and graduated from U.S. Marine Corps Officer Candidates School in Quantico, Virginia. Upon his graduation from Penn State, Mark was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant in the Marine Corps, with a primary occupational specialty of Motor Transport Officer. Mark is also a graduate of Marine Corps Amphibious Warfare School and Command and Staff College.
Throughout his Marine Corps career of 20 years, Mark held various billets (jobs) at Marine Corps Bases in North Carolina, California, and Virginia. During this time, he was deployed to both Iraq and Afghanistan in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. Other noteworthy jobs include: Motor Transport Detachment Lead for the 2001 State Department African Crisis Response Initiative (traveling to Kenya to train the Kenyan Army), Marine Corps Prepositioning Team Lead (traveling to Toulon France to work with NATO forces), Second Marine Expeditionary Force Engineer Officer (traveling to Guantanamo Bay Cuba to coordinate upgrades to the base defensive perimeter and observation posts), and Detachment Lead for the Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory (traveling to Melbourne Australia to participate in joint US/Australian live/virtual/simulated exercises). When not deployed or leading detachments, Mark played rugby on various Marine Corps base teams, and raced mountain bikes for the Marine Corps Intramural Team.
Retiring in 2014, Mark held several contractor jobs continuing to serve the Marine Corps until he accepted a government position with the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Indiana. He currently serves as the Fleet Exercise Engagement Lead for the Special Warfare and Expeditionary Systems Department, providing engineering and technical support to Navy Special Forces and the Marine Corps. Mark recently led a mission analysis team in support of Marine Forces Korea, traveling to Pyeongtaek South Korea. In addition to his work duties, Mark is also enrolled in a dual Master of Science Degree program through Purdue University and the UK's Cranfield Defense University. His focus of study is Expeditionary Warfare Systems.
Mark has been married for over 28 years and has two adult daughters. Living in rural Indiana, he continues to enjoy deer and turkey hunting, fishing, hiking, and camping. Mark is also a Master Mason and a member of his local chapter of the American Legion.
In 1993, between his junior and senior years of college, Mark was accepted to and graduated from U.S. Marine Corps Officer Candidates School in Quantico, Virginia. Upon his graduation from Penn State, Mark was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant in the Marine Corps, with a primary occupational specialty of Motor Transport Officer. Mark is also a graduate of Marine Corps Amphibious Warfare School and Command and Staff College.
Throughout his Marine Corps career of 20 years, Mark held various billets (jobs) at Marine Corps Bases in North Carolina, California, and Virginia. During this time, he was deployed to both Iraq and Afghanistan in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. Other noteworthy jobs include: Motor Transport Detachment Lead for the 2001 State Department African Crisis Response Initiative (traveling to Kenya to train the Kenyan Army), Marine Corps Prepositioning Team Lead (traveling to Toulon France to work with NATO forces), Second Marine Expeditionary Force Engineer Officer (traveling to Guantanamo Bay Cuba to coordinate upgrades to the base defensive perimeter and observation posts), and Detachment Lead for the Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory (traveling to Melbourne Australia to participate in joint US/Australian live/virtual/simulated exercises). When not deployed or leading detachments, Mark played rugby on various Marine Corps base teams, and raced mountain bikes for the Marine Corps Intramural Team.
Retiring in 2014, Mark held several contractor jobs continuing to serve the Marine Corps until he accepted a government position with the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Indiana. He currently serves as the Fleet Exercise Engagement Lead for the Special Warfare and Expeditionary Systems Department, providing engineering and technical support to Navy Special Forces and the Marine Corps. Mark recently led a mission analysis team in support of Marine Forces Korea, traveling to Pyeongtaek South Korea. In addition to his work duties, Mark is also enrolled in a dual Master of Science Degree program through Purdue University and the UK's Cranfield Defense University. His focus of study is Expeditionary Warfare Systems.
Mark has been married for over 28 years and has two adult daughters. Living in rural Indiana, he continues to enjoy deer and turkey hunting, fishing, hiking, and camping. Mark is also a Master Mason and a member of his local chapter of the American Legion.
March 2023
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Phillip Dersham was born and raised in Duncannon, PA. He spent most of his childhood at his family’s business, DeCoven Service Station. Phil attended Susquenita elementary, middle, and high school – graduating in 2004. During high school, he participated in the band, cross country, and track. He earned his Eagle Scout award at Troop 64 in Duncannon when he was 16. Despite good grades, after completing 1 year at West Chester University, he decided college wasn’t for him. So, he did the next best thing: enlist! Phil joined the Navy in 2006 and completed 6 years of active duty. Following boot camp, he was stationed in Goose Creek, SC for Nuclear Power School. He graduated 2 nd in his A-school class, and 10th in his class at Navy Nuclear Power Training Command. Once he completed his nuclear power training, Phil was assigned to the fast attack submarine USS Jefferson City – home ported in San Diego, CA. While onboard the Jeff City, Phil completed 2 overseas deployments, a drydock overhaul, and many other operations up and down the west coast. He achieved the rank of First Class Petty Officer (E-6). More importantly, Phil started a family during his time in the Navy. In 2012, he was honorably discharged and moved back to PA. His first civilian employment was with Linde gases as a Remote Plant Operator. While working as an operator, he completed his BS in Nuclear Engineer. After 3.5 years at Linde, an opportunity that would benefit Phil and his family presented itself in Aiken, SC. From 2015 until 2022 Phil continued working in the medical and industrial gas industry as a Production Coordinator and later as a Plant Supervisor. Last year he made another transition. Now employed by Prayon Inc, Phil works as their US Manager of Environment, Safety, and Health. Phil and his family still live in South Carolina on a small hobby farm raising steers, goats, chickens, pigs, and one fluffy bunny. He has a 13 year old son, Elliot, and an 11 year old daughter, Emma. Phil’s wife Rachel is currently expecting their third child! In addition to his professional career, Phil teaches, preaches, and serves as the treasurer at the Dibble Road Church of Christ. In 2021, he was elected to the Tall Pines STEM Academy school board and serves as their treasurer as well. Aside from farming, his family loves to ride motorcycle, mountain bike, kayak, camp, hike, hunt, fish and pretty much anything else that gets them outside.
February 2023
Colton Spidle was born in Hershey and lived in Etters, PA until 2007 when his family moved to Duncannon, PA. He attended Susquenita Elementary, Middle, and High school graduating in 2016. He played JV baseball freshman and sophomore year and threw in track and field Junior year. In August of 2016 he enlisted in the Pennsylvania Air National Guard before graduating from Susquenita High School in June. A week after he graduated, he was sent to Basic Military Training. Colton attended Air Force basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio Texas. Upon graduation from basic training, he attended technical training at Fort Lee, Virginia for Traffic Management Operations school. After completing his technical training, he returned to Middletown, PA as part of the 193 rd Special Operations Logistics Readiness Squadron. In December of 2016 he decided to take on a full-time job with the 193 rd . In the summer of 2017, Colton went to the 1st Special Operations Logistics Readiness Squadron in Fort Walton Beach Florida to provide technical assistance and supplement the mission during a manning shortage. He was awarded the Air Force Commendation Medal for his hard work and dedication. In July of 2019 he went to Seymour Johnson AFB, NC for Airman Leadership School and shortly after deployed to Afghanistan. Colton spent nine months as a cargo technician for Operation Freedoms Sentinel. He was awarded the Air Force Achievement medal with a combat device, Gallant Unit Citation, and the Meritorious Unit Award. When he returned home, he was promoted to the grade of Staff Sergeant. In early 2021 he graduated from the Community College of the Air Force with an associates degree in Transportation. In October 2022 Colton was promoted to the rank of Technical Sergeant and is still working as an Active Guard member for the 193rd SOLRS. He plans on doing 20 years with the 193 rd Special Operations Wing and hoping to make it to Chief prior to retiring from the Pennsylvania Air National Guard.
In his spare time Colton enjoys the outdoors, hunting, fishing, and hiking. He loves to travel to new places when he is able. Colton and his Fiancé, Brittany Shields class of 2016, are set to get married in August of 2023.
In his spare time Colton enjoys the outdoors, hunting, fishing, and hiking. He loves to travel to new places when he is able. Colton and his Fiancé, Brittany Shields class of 2016, are set to get married in August of 2023.
January 2023
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Jack Hoover was a graduate of Susquenita High School class of 1967. After graduation he went
to work at Town and Country distribution center in Camp Hill. He received his draft notice on March 30, 1968 and was to report for duty to Fort Dix in New Jersey for eight weeks of basic training. Upon completion, Jack was sent to Fort Sill in Oklahoma for advanced individual training to prepare for deployment to Vietnam with the 1st Calvary Division, 1st Battalion, 21st Artillery, Howitzer Division. He was able to come home on leave for two weeks and married his high school sweetheart, Sandra Dimm on September 25, 1968.
In early October Jack reported to Oakland Air Force Base in California to prepare for his departure and one-year tour in the Republic of Vietnam. He quickly earned rank from Private to Sergeant E-5. Jack was able to meet his wife Sandy for a week of R&R in Hawaii in June of 1969. He then returned back to the war for four more months.
Upon completion of his tour of duty, Jack received many awards, including The Bronze Star, Air Medal, Republic of Vietnam Galantry Cross, Vietnam Campaign, Republic of Vietnam Civil Actions Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Medal, and Good Conduct Medal. Jack returned home on October 20, 1969 and was reunited with his family before reporting to duty at Fort Lewis in Washington. In November of 1969 his wife joined him to live in a townhouse on Base where their son Mark was born on March 30, 1970.
Jack and his family returned home on May 20, 1970. He returned to employment at Town and Country Distribution Center for a few months. He then was hired at Olivetti Corporation in Harrisburg and started in 1971 as a supervisor in the assembly and production of typewriters until 1980 when the company moved production to Mexico. Jack did not want to relocate his family, so he went on to work for Quaker Oats Company for the next twenty- two years as a supervisor until the company closed the Shiremanstown plant. He then took an early retirement in 2001 and enjoyed being with his wife and family and spending summers at Stone Harbor Beach. Jack loved his time at the shore and was also an avid Philadelphia Phillies baseball and Pittsburg Steelers football fan.
Jack was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor in July of 2010. He underwent treatment at Hershey Medical Center. He passed away on September 27, 2011 and is greatly missed by his wife, Sandy; sons, Mark and Matthew; daughter in law, Pamela; six granddaughters; and one great granddaughter.
to work at Town and Country distribution center in Camp Hill. He received his draft notice on March 30, 1968 and was to report for duty to Fort Dix in New Jersey for eight weeks of basic training. Upon completion, Jack was sent to Fort Sill in Oklahoma for advanced individual training to prepare for deployment to Vietnam with the 1st Calvary Division, 1st Battalion, 21st Artillery, Howitzer Division. He was able to come home on leave for two weeks and married his high school sweetheart, Sandra Dimm on September 25, 1968.
In early October Jack reported to Oakland Air Force Base in California to prepare for his departure and one-year tour in the Republic of Vietnam. He quickly earned rank from Private to Sergeant E-5. Jack was able to meet his wife Sandy for a week of R&R in Hawaii in June of 1969. He then returned back to the war for four more months.
Upon completion of his tour of duty, Jack received many awards, including The Bronze Star, Air Medal, Republic of Vietnam Galantry Cross, Vietnam Campaign, Republic of Vietnam Civil Actions Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Medal, and Good Conduct Medal. Jack returned home on October 20, 1969 and was reunited with his family before reporting to duty at Fort Lewis in Washington. In November of 1969 his wife joined him to live in a townhouse on Base where their son Mark was born on March 30, 1970.
Jack and his family returned home on May 20, 1970. He returned to employment at Town and Country Distribution Center for a few months. He then was hired at Olivetti Corporation in Harrisburg and started in 1971 as a supervisor in the assembly and production of typewriters until 1980 when the company moved production to Mexico. Jack did not want to relocate his family, so he went on to work for Quaker Oats Company for the next twenty- two years as a supervisor until the company closed the Shiremanstown plant. He then took an early retirement in 2001 and enjoyed being with his wife and family and spending summers at Stone Harbor Beach. Jack loved his time at the shore and was also an avid Philadelphia Phillies baseball and Pittsburg Steelers football fan.
Jack was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor in July of 2010. He underwent treatment at Hershey Medical Center. He passed away on September 27, 2011 and is greatly missed by his wife, Sandy; sons, Mark and Matthew; daughter in law, Pamela; six granddaughters; and one great granddaughter.
December 2022
Michael Egolf is a 2001 Susquenita Highschool grad and played Football and wrestled and ran track (1998) during his high school years. Briefly after graduating he started working with children that had emotional needs in the Capital Area Intermediate Unit. While working there, Michael was an employee at Zeiderelli’s in Duncannon. In 2006 he enlisted in the U.S. Army. He attended basic training in Fort Benning Georgia. After graduating Basic Combat Training, he was stationed in Ft. Lewis Washington assigned to the 4th United States 6th Cavalry Regiment G troop. He went on to serve in Mosul, Iraq for a very grueling 15 month tour in 2007 till 2008 in Operation Iraqi Freedom.
In Iraq he would reenlist for $20,000 dollars and receive orders for Germany in 2009 He would be stationed in Wiesbaden Germany under the 1st Armor division Special Troops Battalion Bravo company. He would then redeploy back to Iraq but this time to Baghdad as an advisor to train the Iraqi Army and police to take on the al Qaeda terrorist group. When he came back from Iraq, he was then stationed in Ansbach Germany with the 12th Combat Aviation Brigade where he would end up deploying to Mazer Sharif Afghanistan in support of NATO forces during the Operation Enduring Freedom.
Michael was medically retired as a Sergeant in 2016 and he stayed in Germany with his German Wife Sabrina Egolf. He started attending Brescia University where he would graduate (Cum Laude) with a Bachelor of Social Work (Class of 2022). He also played football in the highest league in Germany called the German Football League (GFL) for two years for the Franken Knights. He also played for the Weinheim Longhorns. After his playing days he became the Defensive Line coach for the Gernsheim Gladiators and later on the Burstadt Redskins.
Michael and his family currently reside in Bensheim Germany. He enjoys coaching, being in the outdoors, and drinking German Beer.
In Iraq he would reenlist for $20,000 dollars and receive orders for Germany in 2009 He would be stationed in Wiesbaden Germany under the 1st Armor division Special Troops Battalion Bravo company. He would then redeploy back to Iraq but this time to Baghdad as an advisor to train the Iraqi Army and police to take on the al Qaeda terrorist group. When he came back from Iraq, he was then stationed in Ansbach Germany with the 12th Combat Aviation Brigade where he would end up deploying to Mazer Sharif Afghanistan in support of NATO forces during the Operation Enduring Freedom.
Michael was medically retired as a Sergeant in 2016 and he stayed in Germany with his German Wife Sabrina Egolf. He started attending Brescia University where he would graduate (Cum Laude) with a Bachelor of Social Work (Class of 2022). He also played football in the highest league in Germany called the German Football League (GFL) for two years for the Franken Knights. He also played for the Weinheim Longhorns. After his playing days he became the Defensive Line coach for the Gernsheim Gladiators and later on the Burstadt Redskins.
Michael and his family currently reside in Bensheim Germany. He enjoys coaching, being in the outdoors, and drinking German Beer.
November 2022
Timothy Winter is a 2004 Susquenita High School Grad and played baseball, football and basketball during his high school years. Briefly after graduating he joined the United States Army in 2005 where he attended Basic Training at Fort Knox, Kentucky to become a 19D Cavalry Scout. After graduating basic training in December 2005 his first duty station would be in Fort Bliss, TX where he would join 1st Cavalry division. Deploying with 1st Cavalry Division in September 2006, he would do a 15-month stint stationed in Mosul, Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
After returning from deployment, he reenlisted and would end up back at Fort Knox, KY as an instructor for basic training and AIT (advanced individual training). This is where he met his now wife Stacy and stepdaughter Brianna. He ended his time with the United States Army in 2011 and eventually moved back to Pennsylvania brining along his family.
Tim and his family now reside in Harrisburg, PA. He works as a depot manager for Hudson News Distributor while his wife owns a pet grooming salon. He enjoys spending time with family and friends, playing golf, and hunting.
After returning from deployment, he reenlisted and would end up back at Fort Knox, KY as an instructor for basic training and AIT (advanced individual training). This is where he met his now wife Stacy and stepdaughter Brianna. He ended his time with the United States Army in 2011 and eventually moved back to Pennsylvania brining along his family.
Tim and his family now reside in Harrisburg, PA. He works as a depot manager for Hudson News Distributor while his wife owns a pet grooming salon. He enjoys spending time with family and friends, playing golf, and hunting.
October 2022
Loghan Kitzmiller is from Marysville, PA. She graduated from Susquenita High School in 2016. During her time at Susquenita she played varsity soccer all 4 years, and ran track and field from her sophomore year to her senior year, where she competed in seven events.
She was also a member of the Varsity club. During Loghan’s Senior year of High School she joined the Army National Guard where she became the first female to qualify for a Combat job. She left for basic training shortly after graduating high school, on August 9th 2016. After graduating from Basic Training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, she went on to complete her AIT school training for Fire Finder Radar Operator at Fort Sill, Oklahoma.
For the past seven years Loghan has been a part of the 1-108th Field Artillery where she is the rank of Sergeant. In 2019 she received a job with the Federal Government as an Electronics Mechanic for the U.S. Army in Carlisle, PA.
Since her enlistment into the military, Loghan has been apart of Operation Breakthrough in the Summer of 2019, where she traveled to Hungry and helped train the Hungarian military.
In 2020 she was sent to Washington D.C. for the Presidential Inauguration, where she patrolled the streets and guarded the White House. Currently, Loghan has been deployed since 2021, to the Horn Of Africa as part of Operation Enduring Freedom.
In her free time Loghan loves relaxing in the outdoors and she loves spending time with her family and friends. Her family is extremely proud of her.
She was also a member of the Varsity club. During Loghan’s Senior year of High School she joined the Army National Guard where she became the first female to qualify for a Combat job. She left for basic training shortly after graduating high school, on August 9th 2016. After graduating from Basic Training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, she went on to complete her AIT school training for Fire Finder Radar Operator at Fort Sill, Oklahoma.
For the past seven years Loghan has been a part of the 1-108th Field Artillery where she is the rank of Sergeant. In 2019 she received a job with the Federal Government as an Electronics Mechanic for the U.S. Army in Carlisle, PA.
Since her enlistment into the military, Loghan has been apart of Operation Breakthrough in the Summer of 2019, where she traveled to Hungry and helped train the Hungarian military.
In 2020 she was sent to Washington D.C. for the Presidential Inauguration, where she patrolled the streets and guarded the White House. Currently, Loghan has been deployed since 2021, to the Horn Of Africa as part of Operation Enduring Freedom.
In her free time Loghan loves relaxing in the outdoors and she loves spending time with her family and friends. Her family is extremely proud of her.
September 2022
Matt Warnock is a 1992 Susquenita graduate. While there, he played free safety and wide
receiver on the 1991 division championship football team, was a three-year starter on the
basketball team, and earned 1992 track MVP honors while setting what were the school records in the 110 and 300 meter hurdles. He also served as the 1992 yearbook’s sports section editor, acted as a suitor in the 1992 production of “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers,” and participated in other social and school events such as the annual volleyball marathon. Matt left Duncannon to attend Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) and graduated in 1997 with a bachelor’s degree in journalism. He was one of the founding and charter members of the
IUP chapter of Acacia Fraternity, where he served as president and vice-president. He also served as the secretary and president of the Interfraternity Council and was a student
ambassador. After high school and college, Matt made several moves around the country while trying out all kinds of things – mostly living and learning the hard way. The adventure goes something like this: Duncannon, to Indiana, PA, to Washington, D.C., to Philadelphia to Indianapolis to
Arlington, VA, to Key West, FL, back to Arlington, to Great Lakes, IL, to Meridian, MS, to Coronado, CA, to San Diego, back to Arlington…again, to Aldie, VA, and finally, to Lewisburg, PA, with visits to 46 of these United States, 10 countries, three continents, and several oceans, seas, gulfs, and bays somewhere in between.
Fast forward to one fateful September day in 2001. And suddenly, after five years of bouncing around, Matt had a purpose and a direction. He wanted to go fight. A phone call on September 12, 2001, to his grandfather, who had served in WWII, advised him to be patient, to wait, to let the anger pass. “Give it time,” he said. Matt waited a year, and during that time determined that the best way he could serve was to try to earn a spot as a U.S. Navy SEAL. At 27 years old, he signed his enlistment paperwork and a couple months later was sent to the U.S. Navy Recruiting Command in Great Lakes, IL. There, Matt qualified and earned selection to go to Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/S)
training in Coronado, CA. Also, while in Great Lakes, Matt earned a Commanding Officer’s
Letter of Commendation for being voted “Honor Recruit” by his recruit division’s shipmates and received the commanding officer’s salute in front of the graduating divisions. At his “A” School in Meridian, MS, he finished at the top of his class, which earned him his choice of duty station and an accelerated advancement to Petty Officer Third Class. He recalls his instructors looking
confused when he told them he already had orders to the Naval Special Warfare Center and that was his choice of duty station.
Arriving at the Naval Special Warfare Center is as intimidating as one may think. One instantly feels its intensity, its legend…the 85 percent dropout rate. What no one who hasn’t been there can really understand is what it’s like to be cold and wet and completely uncomfortable or in pain for 16 or more hours a day. On certain days that ship’s bell on the far side of what’s affectionately known as “The Grinder” looks awfully inviting. For what it’s worth, Matt feels fortunate to have at least been a part of the 85 percent.
After “Dropping on Request” from BUD/S Class 247 he was sent to the USS BELLEAU WOOD (LHA 3), an amphibious assault assigned to Naval Station San Diego. Aboard BELLEAU WOOD he was part of Expeditionary Strike Group 3, which conducted a surge deployment with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. In November 2003,
one month after Matt arrived on board, he became part of history as Marine Brigadier General Joseph V. Medina took command of Expeditionary Strike Group 3 aboard BELLEAU WOOD as its flagship. That event marked the first time in history that a U.S. Marine Corps officer had taken command of a naval formation. The strike group deployed in May 2004 and while on station in the Arabian Gulf conducted several assigned missions. While deployed Matt earned his
Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist credentials, and set foot in Kuwait, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Singapore, and Honolulu, HI. After deployment, he was awarded the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary and Service Medals, and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement
Medal. The following year, in 2005, Matt was part of the ship’s decommissioning crew and
given an Honorable Discharge. Matt has continued serving his country as a civilian. Within a year of his separation from the
Navy, he helped plan and execute 27 homeland security and first responder exercises across the country and American Samoa. While in Samoa, he earned the privilege and was authorized to undergo a form of the culture’s traditional tattooing ceremony by the island’s homeland security
director and the matai (chief) of his village. After that, he became the first director of public relations for a $2 billion systems integration firm that developed a suite of autonomous IED robots and other critical war fighting technologies.
Today Matt works for The MITRE Corporation, a nonprofit company that oversees six federally funded research and development centers. As an operations and engagement strategist in a transportation-related Innovation Center within the company’s Applied Sciences organization, he works with an elite group of practitioners and executives with deep expertise in systems engineering, mathematics, economic modeling, and data science to understand their technological developments and technical objectives so he can help them engage with industry, academia, and government to build more efficient, secure, resilient, and safer transportation
infrastructures.
Matt, his wife Nicole, and their daughter Jordan, have recently left the hustle and bustle of suburban Northern Virginia behind and have relocated from Aldie, VA, to Lewisburg, PA. They enjoy road trips to find restaurants featured on the Food Network or Travel Channel, exploring new towns and back roads, finding a good hiking trail, or trying out a new winery or brewery. They’re looking forward to exploring that part of the world, being closer to old friends and their
families and hopefully going to a few more Penn State football games.
receiver on the 1991 division championship football team, was a three-year starter on the
basketball team, and earned 1992 track MVP honors while setting what were the school records in the 110 and 300 meter hurdles. He also served as the 1992 yearbook’s sports section editor, acted as a suitor in the 1992 production of “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers,” and participated in other social and school events such as the annual volleyball marathon. Matt left Duncannon to attend Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) and graduated in 1997 with a bachelor’s degree in journalism. He was one of the founding and charter members of the
IUP chapter of Acacia Fraternity, where he served as president and vice-president. He also served as the secretary and president of the Interfraternity Council and was a student
ambassador. After high school and college, Matt made several moves around the country while trying out all kinds of things – mostly living and learning the hard way. The adventure goes something like this: Duncannon, to Indiana, PA, to Washington, D.C., to Philadelphia to Indianapolis to
Arlington, VA, to Key West, FL, back to Arlington, to Great Lakes, IL, to Meridian, MS, to Coronado, CA, to San Diego, back to Arlington…again, to Aldie, VA, and finally, to Lewisburg, PA, with visits to 46 of these United States, 10 countries, three continents, and several oceans, seas, gulfs, and bays somewhere in between.
Fast forward to one fateful September day in 2001. And suddenly, after five years of bouncing around, Matt had a purpose and a direction. He wanted to go fight. A phone call on September 12, 2001, to his grandfather, who had served in WWII, advised him to be patient, to wait, to let the anger pass. “Give it time,” he said. Matt waited a year, and during that time determined that the best way he could serve was to try to earn a spot as a U.S. Navy SEAL. At 27 years old, he signed his enlistment paperwork and a couple months later was sent to the U.S. Navy Recruiting Command in Great Lakes, IL. There, Matt qualified and earned selection to go to Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/S)
training in Coronado, CA. Also, while in Great Lakes, Matt earned a Commanding Officer’s
Letter of Commendation for being voted “Honor Recruit” by his recruit division’s shipmates and received the commanding officer’s salute in front of the graduating divisions. At his “A” School in Meridian, MS, he finished at the top of his class, which earned him his choice of duty station and an accelerated advancement to Petty Officer Third Class. He recalls his instructors looking
confused when he told them he already had orders to the Naval Special Warfare Center and that was his choice of duty station.
Arriving at the Naval Special Warfare Center is as intimidating as one may think. One instantly feels its intensity, its legend…the 85 percent dropout rate. What no one who hasn’t been there can really understand is what it’s like to be cold and wet and completely uncomfortable or in pain for 16 or more hours a day. On certain days that ship’s bell on the far side of what’s affectionately known as “The Grinder” looks awfully inviting. For what it’s worth, Matt feels fortunate to have at least been a part of the 85 percent.
After “Dropping on Request” from BUD/S Class 247 he was sent to the USS BELLEAU WOOD (LHA 3), an amphibious assault assigned to Naval Station San Diego. Aboard BELLEAU WOOD he was part of Expeditionary Strike Group 3, which conducted a surge deployment with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. In November 2003,
one month after Matt arrived on board, he became part of history as Marine Brigadier General Joseph V. Medina took command of Expeditionary Strike Group 3 aboard BELLEAU WOOD as its flagship. That event marked the first time in history that a U.S. Marine Corps officer had taken command of a naval formation. The strike group deployed in May 2004 and while on station in the Arabian Gulf conducted several assigned missions. While deployed Matt earned his
Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist credentials, and set foot in Kuwait, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Singapore, and Honolulu, HI. After deployment, he was awarded the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary and Service Medals, and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement
Medal. The following year, in 2005, Matt was part of the ship’s decommissioning crew and
given an Honorable Discharge. Matt has continued serving his country as a civilian. Within a year of his separation from the
Navy, he helped plan and execute 27 homeland security and first responder exercises across the country and American Samoa. While in Samoa, he earned the privilege and was authorized to undergo a form of the culture’s traditional tattooing ceremony by the island’s homeland security
director and the matai (chief) of his village. After that, he became the first director of public relations for a $2 billion systems integration firm that developed a suite of autonomous IED robots and other critical war fighting technologies.
Today Matt works for The MITRE Corporation, a nonprofit company that oversees six federally funded research and development centers. As an operations and engagement strategist in a transportation-related Innovation Center within the company’s Applied Sciences organization, he works with an elite group of practitioners and executives with deep expertise in systems engineering, mathematics, economic modeling, and data science to understand their technological developments and technical objectives so he can help them engage with industry, academia, and government to build more efficient, secure, resilient, and safer transportation
infrastructures.
Matt, his wife Nicole, and their daughter Jordan, have recently left the hustle and bustle of suburban Northern Virginia behind and have relocated from Aldie, VA, to Lewisburg, PA. They enjoy road trips to find restaurants featured on the Food Network or Travel Channel, exploring new towns and back roads, finding a good hiking trail, or trying out a new winery or brewery. They’re looking forward to exploring that part of the world, being closer to old friends and their
families and hopefully going to a few more Penn State football games.
August 2022
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Garret Spidle was born in Hershey and lived in Etters, PA until 2007 when his family moved to Duncannon, Pa. He attended Susquenita Middle School and graduated from Susquenita High School in 2013. He ran cross country and track and field from 9th grade to 12th grade. In March of 2013 Garret enlisted in the PA Air National Guard before graduation. In 2021 he got married to his wife Katelyn. They have a son, Liam and a daughter, Kinsley.
Garret attended Air Force basic training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio Texas. After graduating from basic he went to Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri for his advanced individual training where he attended pavement and construction equipment operator training. After completing his AIT, he then returned to Fort Indiantown Gap as part of the 201st Red Horse. While he was with the 201st Red Horse he got his Class A CDL and he also attended Central Pennsylvania Diesel Institute where he earned his diesel certification. With the 201st Red Horse, Garret worked on regrading the state game lands road in stoney creek. He also performed concrete work for one of the other units in the PA Air Guard in Johnstown, PA. In 2018 Garret made a career change where he joined the 193rd Special operations wing as an Aerospace Ground Equipment mechanic. Over the years he attended Airman Leadership school at Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho. When he returned home he was promoted to the rank of Staff Sergeant. He is currently working there as an Active Guard Reserve member, which is active duty for the guard. Garret plans on doing 20 years in the PA Air National Guard and hopes to make the rank of Master Sergeant before retiring from the PA Air Guard.
In his spare time Garret enjoys snowboarding and riding motorcycle. He also enjoys the outdoors, hunting and fishing. He enjoys doing charity rides and benefit rides. He is also an active member of the Duncannon American Legion.
Garret attended Air Force basic training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio Texas. After graduating from basic he went to Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri for his advanced individual training where he attended pavement and construction equipment operator training. After completing his AIT, he then returned to Fort Indiantown Gap as part of the 201st Red Horse. While he was with the 201st Red Horse he got his Class A CDL and he also attended Central Pennsylvania Diesel Institute where he earned his diesel certification. With the 201st Red Horse, Garret worked on regrading the state game lands road in stoney creek. He also performed concrete work for one of the other units in the PA Air Guard in Johnstown, PA. In 2018 Garret made a career change where he joined the 193rd Special operations wing as an Aerospace Ground Equipment mechanic. Over the years he attended Airman Leadership school at Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho. When he returned home he was promoted to the rank of Staff Sergeant. He is currently working there as an Active Guard Reserve member, which is active duty for the guard. Garret plans on doing 20 years in the PA Air National Guard and hopes to make the rank of Master Sergeant before retiring from the PA Air Guard.
In his spare time Garret enjoys snowboarding and riding motorcycle. He also enjoys the outdoors, hunting and fishing. He enjoys doing charity rides and benefit rides. He is also an active member of the Duncannon American Legion.
July 2022
Michael Urich was born and raised in Duncannon where he attended Duncannon Elementary School and graduated from Susquenita High School in 1973. He played Junior Varsity Basketball and Track and Field during his 9 th and 10 th grade and lettered on the Varsity Basketball Team his Junior and Senior year. Prior to graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army under the Delayed Entry Program.
Mike attended Army basic training at Fort Dix New Jersey shortly after graduation and attended Advance Individual Training as a Cavalry Scout at Fort Knox Ky. In 1975 he was transferred to Germany for his first of many overseas duty stations. In June 1976 he married Cynthia Albeck, also from Duncannon and a 1974 graduate of Susquenita High School. They have two children, a daughter Jaime and a son Christopher and three granddaughters.
During his 31 years of military service in the United States Army Mike and Cynthia traveled to many locations throughout the United States and Overseas. Mike received several military awards, commendations, and promotions and attended several leadership schools during his military career. Among his accomplishments are Army Achievements Awards, Army Commendation Medal, Meritorious Service Medal and the Bronze Star during his tour in Iraq. His leadership knowledge and skills enabled him to receive several military honors and promotions. He was named Brigade Drill Sergeant of the Year at Fort Knox, KY and was inducted into the prestigious Sergeant Morales Club and named United States Europe Non-Commissioned Officer of the year during his second tour in Germany. He was also chosen to be inducted into the Audie Murphey Club.
While serving his third tour in Germany, Mike was selected to attend the Sergeant Majors Academy Course at Fort Bliss, TX in 1992. After graduation, he was promoted to Sergeant Major and remained at Fort Bliss to serve as an Instructor at the Academy. After three years at Fort Bliss, TX, he was assigned to Fort Snelling, MN where he served as the Group Sergeant Major. His next assignment was Fort Hood, TX where he served as the Readiness Group Sergeant Major. He was assigned to Korea where he served and the Division Operations Sergeant Major for 18 Months. After his tour in Korea, he returned to Fort Hood, TX where he served as the 4 th Infantry Division Operation Sergeant Major. In 2003, Mike deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and finally retired from the United States Army after 31 years of Military Service. Mike continued to support the military and soldiers by serving as a civilian contractor for an additional 13 additional years with Engineering Solutions and Products at Fort Hood, TX. There, he was the Global Support Manager, in charge of installing and instructing soldiers in the use of the Blue Force Tracking System, all over the world.
While living in Lometa, TX, Mike served the community as the President of the Lometa Lions Club and contributed to organizing the Annual Diamondback Jubilee. Since moving back to Pennsylvania, Mike has been an avid sports enthusiast and enjoys playing golf as often as possible. He continues to stay active in the community as a current member of the Linglestown American Legion. He and his wife Cynthia now reside in the Harrisburg area.
Mike attended Army basic training at Fort Dix New Jersey shortly after graduation and attended Advance Individual Training as a Cavalry Scout at Fort Knox Ky. In 1975 he was transferred to Germany for his first of many overseas duty stations. In June 1976 he married Cynthia Albeck, also from Duncannon and a 1974 graduate of Susquenita High School. They have two children, a daughter Jaime and a son Christopher and three granddaughters.
During his 31 years of military service in the United States Army Mike and Cynthia traveled to many locations throughout the United States and Overseas. Mike received several military awards, commendations, and promotions and attended several leadership schools during his military career. Among his accomplishments are Army Achievements Awards, Army Commendation Medal, Meritorious Service Medal and the Bronze Star during his tour in Iraq. His leadership knowledge and skills enabled him to receive several military honors and promotions. He was named Brigade Drill Sergeant of the Year at Fort Knox, KY and was inducted into the prestigious Sergeant Morales Club and named United States Europe Non-Commissioned Officer of the year during his second tour in Germany. He was also chosen to be inducted into the Audie Murphey Club.
While serving his third tour in Germany, Mike was selected to attend the Sergeant Majors Academy Course at Fort Bliss, TX in 1992. After graduation, he was promoted to Sergeant Major and remained at Fort Bliss to serve as an Instructor at the Academy. After three years at Fort Bliss, TX, he was assigned to Fort Snelling, MN where he served as the Group Sergeant Major. His next assignment was Fort Hood, TX where he served as the Readiness Group Sergeant Major. He was assigned to Korea where he served and the Division Operations Sergeant Major for 18 Months. After his tour in Korea, he returned to Fort Hood, TX where he served as the 4 th Infantry Division Operation Sergeant Major. In 2003, Mike deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and finally retired from the United States Army after 31 years of Military Service. Mike continued to support the military and soldiers by serving as a civilian contractor for an additional 13 additional years with Engineering Solutions and Products at Fort Hood, TX. There, he was the Global Support Manager, in charge of installing and instructing soldiers in the use of the Blue Force Tracking System, all over the world.
While living in Lometa, TX, Mike served the community as the President of the Lometa Lions Club and contributed to organizing the Annual Diamondback Jubilee. Since moving back to Pennsylvania, Mike has been an avid sports enthusiast and enjoys playing golf as often as possible. He continues to stay active in the community as a current member of the Linglestown American Legion. He and his wife Cynthia now reside in the Harrisburg area.
June 2022
Brooke Hargenrader graduated from Susquenita High School in 2016. While attending Susquenita, she participated in several sports, including both Tennis and Track and Field. Brooke excelled in Track and Field. She tied the school record for high jump, amounting to a height of 5’3,” and was granted the opportunity to attend Districts every year throughout her high school athletic career. Outside of school, she enjoyed many outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, and kayaking.
During Brooke’s senior year of high school, she joined the Pennsylvania Army National Guard as a 74D Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Specialist. She left for basic training the same month she graduated. During basic training, she received a physical fitness and teamwork award, and additionally, was assigned to leadership roles within the first few weeks of training. When Brooke returned home from basic training in fall of 2017, she was notified that her unit was deploying overseas. This meant Brooke was only able to complete one semester of in-residency college with Penn State Harrisburg before leaving overseas. Brooke returned home with a wealth of knowledge in her career field but decided to transfer to the Air National Guard to experience life in a different branch of service. She is still currently serving with the Air National Guard and plans on achieving 20 years of service.
This past fall, Brooke graduated from Penn State Harrisburg with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. She knew that she always wanted a career in Law Enforcement and decided to combine her passion for the outdoors with her strong desire to serve the public. This is what drove her to apply for the 34th State Game Warden Cadet Class. Brooke was selected along with the few other candidates that made it through the hiring process. She is scheduled to graduate in February 2023 and is excited to see where this career takes her.
During Brooke’s senior year of high school, she joined the Pennsylvania Army National Guard as a 74D Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Specialist. She left for basic training the same month she graduated. During basic training, she received a physical fitness and teamwork award, and additionally, was assigned to leadership roles within the first few weeks of training. When Brooke returned home from basic training in fall of 2017, she was notified that her unit was deploying overseas. This meant Brooke was only able to complete one semester of in-residency college with Penn State Harrisburg before leaving overseas. Brooke returned home with a wealth of knowledge in her career field but decided to transfer to the Air National Guard to experience life in a different branch of service. She is still currently serving with the Air National Guard and plans on achieving 20 years of service.
This past fall, Brooke graduated from Penn State Harrisburg with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. She knew that she always wanted a career in Law Enforcement and decided to combine her passion for the outdoors with her strong desire to serve the public. This is what drove her to apply for the 34th State Game Warden Cadet Class. Brooke was selected along with the few other candidates that made it through the hiring process. She is scheduled to graduate in February 2023 and is excited to see where this career takes her.
May 2022
Brandon Posmoga graduated with honors from Susquenita High School in 1993. While attending SHS, he participated in soccer and track. Upon graduation, Brandon attended Harrisburg Area Community College majoring in graphic design. He completed an A.A. Degree in Graphic Design in May 1996.
In March 1997, Brandon completed Army boot camp at Fort Jackson, South Carolina and went on to Fort Belvoir, Virginia to complete Advanced Individual Training in Terrain Analysis. Brandon was then stationed at Fort Hood, Texas for active duty with the 555th Engineer Company, 3rd Corps. From November 1997-July 1999 he served as a map cartographer and lead map editor for the mapping platoon. He also served as a terrain analyst working on several projects relating to map overlays of Korea. In July 1999, Brandon was awarded a Green to Gold Scholarship allowing him to end his enlisted contract early and return to college to complete a 4-year degree and become a commissioned officer.
Brandon attended Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, TX with additional courses in the Army ROTC program and graduated magna cum laude with a B.F.A. in Art - Advertising in Graphic Design in May 2001. Upon graduation, Brandon was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Adjutant General’s Corps and assigned to the 3rd Infantry Division at Fort Stewart, Georgia. While serving in 3rd ID, he was deployed to Kuwait in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in 2003 and to Baghdad, Iraq for Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2005. Brandon returned to Pennsylvania in 2006 to serve in the Army Reserves in Lancaster. Brandon earned the rank of Captain and ultimately separated from the Army in 2009. During his service, he was awarded the Army Commendation Medal, four Army Achievement Medals, and the Combat Action Badge.
After completing his active-duty military service, Brandon was hired as a senior consultant by Grant Thornton LLP, a tax advisory and business consulting firm, where he was assigned to the Defense Logistics Agency in New Cumberland, PA as a training team analyst for the Depot Transition Team within the Headquarters Operations department from 2006-2011. Brandon traveled to several Distribution Depots across the country in support of each location’s transitions, including San Diego, CA, San Juaquin, CA, Barstow, CA, Cherry Point, NC, and Richmond, VA.
In July 2011, Brandon decided to pursue his artistic dreams and opened his own body art business known as Viking Armor Tattoo located in Marysville, PA. Brandon has completed over 6,000 tattoos since he opened and continues to serve central PA to this day.
Brandon lives in Marysville with his beautiful wife, Jera. He also has two amazing children. Noah, also a Susquenita graduate and Caden, who graduated from CASA. In his spare time, he enjoys playing guitar in local bands, riding bikes, and local adventures with his wife.
In March 1997, Brandon completed Army boot camp at Fort Jackson, South Carolina and went on to Fort Belvoir, Virginia to complete Advanced Individual Training in Terrain Analysis. Brandon was then stationed at Fort Hood, Texas for active duty with the 555th Engineer Company, 3rd Corps. From November 1997-July 1999 he served as a map cartographer and lead map editor for the mapping platoon. He also served as a terrain analyst working on several projects relating to map overlays of Korea. In July 1999, Brandon was awarded a Green to Gold Scholarship allowing him to end his enlisted contract early and return to college to complete a 4-year degree and become a commissioned officer.
Brandon attended Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, TX with additional courses in the Army ROTC program and graduated magna cum laude with a B.F.A. in Art - Advertising in Graphic Design in May 2001. Upon graduation, Brandon was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Adjutant General’s Corps and assigned to the 3rd Infantry Division at Fort Stewart, Georgia. While serving in 3rd ID, he was deployed to Kuwait in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in 2003 and to Baghdad, Iraq for Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2005. Brandon returned to Pennsylvania in 2006 to serve in the Army Reserves in Lancaster. Brandon earned the rank of Captain and ultimately separated from the Army in 2009. During his service, he was awarded the Army Commendation Medal, four Army Achievement Medals, and the Combat Action Badge.
After completing his active-duty military service, Brandon was hired as a senior consultant by Grant Thornton LLP, a tax advisory and business consulting firm, where he was assigned to the Defense Logistics Agency in New Cumberland, PA as a training team analyst for the Depot Transition Team within the Headquarters Operations department from 2006-2011. Brandon traveled to several Distribution Depots across the country in support of each location’s transitions, including San Diego, CA, San Juaquin, CA, Barstow, CA, Cherry Point, NC, and Richmond, VA.
In July 2011, Brandon decided to pursue his artistic dreams and opened his own body art business known as Viking Armor Tattoo located in Marysville, PA. Brandon has completed over 6,000 tattoos since he opened and continues to serve central PA to this day.
Brandon lives in Marysville with his beautiful wife, Jera. He also has two amazing children. Noah, also a Susquenita graduate and Caden, who graduated from CASA. In his spare time, he enjoys playing guitar in local bands, riding bikes, and local adventures with his wife.
April 2022
Jeremy Clark graduated from Susquenita High School in 1997. While attending SHS, he participated in soccer, tennis and the ski club Having already enlisted in the US Army and completing boot camp after his junior year, he returned to Fort Leonard Wood Missouri after graduation for advanced training on operating heaving equipment. Jeremy then earned an Army ROTC scholarship to the University of Delaware. At UD, he double majored in Criminal Justice and Political Science and was commissioned as the distinguished military graduate.
Upon graduation, Jeremy was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the infantry and assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. While serving in the 82nd, he was deployed in support of Operating Enduring Freedom in 2002-2003, Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003-2004, and again to Afghanistan at the end of 2004. Jeremy earned the rank of Captain and ultimately separated from the Army in 2005. During his service, was awarded two Bronze Stars, two Army Achievement Medals, and the Combat Infantry Badge. Jeremy also successfully completed Air Assault, Airborne, and Ranger schools.
After completing his military service, Jeremy attended Villanova University School of Law where he graduated cum laude in 2009. He then clerked for the Honorable Anthony Beltrami in the Northampton County Court of Common Pleas. Jeremy now has his own legal practice in Easton, Pennsylvania specializing in commercial litigation. In addition to his private practice, he serves as the Special Master in Divorce for the Northampton County Court of Common Pleas as well as the Assistant Solicitor for the City of Easton.
Jeremy lives in Easton with his wonderful Wife, Elizabeth and two amazing daughters, Allison and Vivian. In his spare time, he enjoys skiing and snowboarding, reading, drawing, watching the Steelers with Allison, as well as watching and playing soccer.
Upon graduation, Jeremy was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the infantry and assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. While serving in the 82nd, he was deployed in support of Operating Enduring Freedom in 2002-2003, Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003-2004, and again to Afghanistan at the end of 2004. Jeremy earned the rank of Captain and ultimately separated from the Army in 2005. During his service, was awarded two Bronze Stars, two Army Achievement Medals, and the Combat Infantry Badge. Jeremy also successfully completed Air Assault, Airborne, and Ranger schools.
After completing his military service, Jeremy attended Villanova University School of Law where he graduated cum laude in 2009. He then clerked for the Honorable Anthony Beltrami in the Northampton County Court of Common Pleas. Jeremy now has his own legal practice in Easton, Pennsylvania specializing in commercial litigation. In addition to his private practice, he serves as the Special Master in Divorce for the Northampton County Court of Common Pleas as well as the Assistant Solicitor for the City of Easton.
Jeremy lives in Easton with his wonderful Wife, Elizabeth and two amazing daughters, Allison and Vivian. In his spare time, he enjoys skiing and snowboarding, reading, drawing, watching the Steelers with Allison, as well as watching and playing soccer.
March 2022
Bill Klinepeter graduated from Susquenita High School in 1973 & enlisted directly into the Navy following graduation from high school. He attended boot camp at the Recruit Training Command Center in Great Lakes, Illinois. Upon completion of his entry level training, Bill was sent for further advanced training & graduated directly from the naval aviation programs at the Naval Air Station in Meridian, Mississippi. His first sea tour was aboard USS Saratoga (60) as well as USS Midway (CV-41) in support of Operations during the Vietnam Conflict (i.e., the Fall of Saigon & Evacuation) in 1975. While on this deployment, he was advanced in rank to Second Class Petty Officer (E-5). In March of 1979, he reported to the Naval Air Weapons Station in China Lake, California. He completed several consecutive deployments to the 4th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility aboard USS America (CV-66), he earned his Enlisted Aviation and Surface Warfare Specialist designation. Bill holds a Bachelor in the Health Sciences degree in Biostatistics from the University of Florida. His personal military awards include the Meritorious Service Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals (3 awards), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Navy Good Conduct Medal, Navy Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Navy Rife Marksmanship Ribbon, Humanitarian Service Medal and various other unit and campaign medals. He married his beautiful bride, the former Miss Judy Tan Yap who is from the City of Manila in the Philippines many years ago and they both are enjoying their retirement together.
February 2022
Paul Staver is a 2007 graduate of Susquenita High School. During his time at Susquenita, he was a member of the football team and ran track & field for all four years. Paul also played club rugby for the Upper Dauphin County Barbarians his junior and senior years. During Paul’s senior year of high school, he was selected as a 4 year Army ROTC scholarship recipient and attended West Virginia University. As a member of Army ROTC, he trained to become an Army Officer while majoring in Business Administration and Finance. During his summers at WVU, Paul was selected to attend and graduated from both the Army’s Air Assault School and Airborne School. Paul was later selected for an Active Duty officer slot and in the spring of 2011 he received his Commission as a Second Lieutenant.
Paul’s first assignment was at Fort Lewis, WA where he helped train ROTC cadets. He then went on to Armor Basic Officer Leader Course and The Army Reconnaissance School at Fort Benning, GA. Shortly after, Paul was stationed at Fort Campbell, KY as part of 1-33 Cavalry Squadron, 3rd Brigade Combat Team “Rakkasans”, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault). While at 1-33 CAV, Paul was Alpha Troop’s 1st Platoon Leader for over a year. In that role, he led a 29 solider platoon and completed a rotation at the Joint Readiness Training Center in Fort Polk, LA. He was also an Assistant S-3 Operations Officer.
Paul left active duty in the summer of 2015 and began a civilian career moving to Minneapolis, MN. He married his wife Molly in 2017 and they relocated back to Pennsylvania in. Paul and Molly have a 1 year old daughter, Quinn and a German shorthaired pointer named Gus. They reside just south of Pittsburgh in Peters Township, PA.
Paul’s first assignment was at Fort Lewis, WA where he helped train ROTC cadets. He then went on to Armor Basic Officer Leader Course and The Army Reconnaissance School at Fort Benning, GA. Shortly after, Paul was stationed at Fort Campbell, KY as part of 1-33 Cavalry Squadron, 3rd Brigade Combat Team “Rakkasans”, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault). While at 1-33 CAV, Paul was Alpha Troop’s 1st Platoon Leader for over a year. In that role, he led a 29 solider platoon and completed a rotation at the Joint Readiness Training Center in Fort Polk, LA. He was also an Assistant S-3 Operations Officer.
Paul left active duty in the summer of 2015 and began a civilian career moving to Minneapolis, MN. He married his wife Molly in 2017 and they relocated back to Pennsylvania in. Paul and Molly have a 1 year old daughter, Quinn and a German shorthaired pointer named Gus. They reside just south of Pittsburgh in Peters Township, PA.
January 2022
Joshua Howard joined the PA Army National Guard as a student at Susquenita High School his senior year in January 2002. After graduation, Joshua attended Army basic training and Advanced Individual training as an Automated Logistics Specialist (92A). He continued his military carrier while working a part time job with UPS and attending college. During his last two years at Shippensburg University, Joshua joined the ROTC program and after graduation he was promoted to second lieutenant (2LT) with the 3622nd Maintenance Company at Fort Indiantown Gap, Pennsylvania. Joshua graduated from Shippensburg University with a Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems. Shippensburg University is also where Joshua met the love of his life Amy (Holley) Howard. They reside in Dillsburg Pennsylvania with their two children, Olivia (12) and Johnathan (8).
After various Department of Defense (DoD) information technology positions and attaining many IT certification including Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA), Joshua found his greatest job with the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) as a Windows Server Administrator. While furthering his civilian career, Joshua continued to further his military career. In 2011, he was promoted to Captain (CPT) and shortly after deployed in support of Operation New Dawn (OND) to Kuwait (KU) with the 728th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion (CSSB). Later in 2016, Joshua was promoted to the rank of Major (MAJ) with the 213th Regional Support Group in Allentown, Pennsylvania. In 2018, the 28th Infantry Division out of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania requested that Joshua deploy with their headquarters unit to Kuwait (KU) in support of Task Force Spartan where he planned military exercises with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Land Forces and the Kuwaiti Land Forces. Joshua is now assigned to the 728th CSSB as the Support Operations Officer and will be completing his 20th year of service in January 2022.
After various Department of Defense (DoD) information technology positions and attaining many IT certification including Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA), Joshua found his greatest job with the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) as a Windows Server Administrator. While furthering his civilian career, Joshua continued to further his military career. In 2011, he was promoted to Captain (CPT) and shortly after deployed in support of Operation New Dawn (OND) to Kuwait (KU) with the 728th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion (CSSB). Later in 2016, Joshua was promoted to the rank of Major (MAJ) with the 213th Regional Support Group in Allentown, Pennsylvania. In 2018, the 28th Infantry Division out of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania requested that Joshua deploy with their headquarters unit to Kuwait (KU) in support of Task Force Spartan where he planned military exercises with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Land Forces and the Kuwaiti Land Forces. Joshua is now assigned to the 728th CSSB as the Support Operations Officer and will be completing his 20th year of service in January 2022.
December 2021
Tim Auxt joined the United States Navy after graduating from Susquenita High School in 1985, where he was stationed OCONUS in Rota, Spain as an Aviation Electronics Mate Second Class. He worked on Naval P3 Orions and Fleet Air Reconnaissance Planes for VQ2. After the Navy, Tim continued his career in supporting the Naval Mission Mayport, FL working on Navy Helicopter Simulators. His Naval experience provided him the skills and experience to work as a Plant Engineer with Dairy Farmers of America (DFA) in Hummelstown, PA for 24 years.
Tim raised two children, who both graduated from Susquenita High School and inherited his love for the great outdoors. He was an avid outdoorsman, who loved hunting, fishing, and hiking with his family, which included his beloved dogs Ruger & Rylee. His passion for the outdoors was infectious and anyone who knew him could see the adventurousness in his eyes. Tim had an innate ability to take his passion for hunting and combine it with his talent and love for cooking up five-star meals. He will always be remembered as a man who took pride in serving his country, loving his children and wife unconditionally, and having a big heart. Tim passed away earlier this year.
Tim raised two children, who both graduated from Susquenita High School and inherited his love for the great outdoors. He was an avid outdoorsman, who loved hunting, fishing, and hiking with his family, which included his beloved dogs Ruger & Rylee. His passion for the outdoors was infectious and anyone who knew him could see the adventurousness in his eyes. Tim had an innate ability to take his passion for hunting and combine it with his talent and love for cooking up five-star meals. He will always be remembered as a man who took pride in serving his country, loving his children and wife unconditionally, and having a big heart. Tim passed away earlier this year.
November 2021
Jeremy Whitmer is a 2002 graduate of Susquenita High School. In October 2001 Jeremy enlisted in the Pennsylvania Army National Guard. Shortly after graduating he attended basic training at Fort Knox, KY. When he returned home, he began pursuing a career in Nursing, obtaining his Associates of Science in Nursing from Harrisburg Area Community College in December 2007. Jeremy had a longer time getting his RN due to being deployed in support of Hurricane Katrina in 2005 where he was in New Orleans Parrish and then moved west to the city of LaFayette, where he assisted in recovery efforts after Hurricane Rita made landfall.
Jeremy received his Commission as a Second Lieutenant in 2006 and attended the Field Artillery Officer Basic Course at Fort Sill, Oklahoma in 2008. Upon graduating Jeremy went to Iraq supporting combat operations north of Baghdad in Taji, Iraq. Upon returning home, Jeremy completed his Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Millersville University where he was inducted into the Nursing National Honor Society Sigma Theta Tau in 2009. During his nursing career, Jeremy worked in several specialties, ending in Cardiothoracic Surgery, specializing in minimally invasive robot assisted cardiothoracic Surgery.
Jeremy left full time nursing to serve Full time in the PA Army National Guard in 2014. During his 20 years of service Jeremy has served in multiple units across the state and trained in 12 different countries, mostly eastern Europe. Jeremy continues to maintain his clinical nursing skills after he obtained his Pre-Hospital Registered Nurse (PHRN) Certification. He works for Life Lion EMS, LLC (West Shore) where he works part time. He is also a member of the Cumberland County Special Response Team (SRT) as a member of the Tactical Emergency Medical Services (TEMS) Team. While Jeremy continues to work full time for the PA Army National Guard, he is almost complete with his Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Nurse Educator degree.
Jeremy is currently stationed at the 1-109th Field Artillery Regiment in Wilkes-Barre; PA where is the S3 Operations Officer and full time Administrative Officer. He specializes in indirect fire support as well as Joint Air Operations Command and Control.
Jeremy, married his wife Corey in 2010 and they have two children Toby (5) and Mackenzie (3) they still live in Marysville. Jeremy says the world is an amazing place, but he still loves living “out the valley”.
Jeremy received his Commission as a Second Lieutenant in 2006 and attended the Field Artillery Officer Basic Course at Fort Sill, Oklahoma in 2008. Upon graduating Jeremy went to Iraq supporting combat operations north of Baghdad in Taji, Iraq. Upon returning home, Jeremy completed his Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Millersville University where he was inducted into the Nursing National Honor Society Sigma Theta Tau in 2009. During his nursing career, Jeremy worked in several specialties, ending in Cardiothoracic Surgery, specializing in minimally invasive robot assisted cardiothoracic Surgery.
Jeremy left full time nursing to serve Full time in the PA Army National Guard in 2014. During his 20 years of service Jeremy has served in multiple units across the state and trained in 12 different countries, mostly eastern Europe. Jeremy continues to maintain his clinical nursing skills after he obtained his Pre-Hospital Registered Nurse (PHRN) Certification. He works for Life Lion EMS, LLC (West Shore) where he works part time. He is also a member of the Cumberland County Special Response Team (SRT) as a member of the Tactical Emergency Medical Services (TEMS) Team. While Jeremy continues to work full time for the PA Army National Guard, he is almost complete with his Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Nurse Educator degree.
Jeremy is currently stationed at the 1-109th Field Artillery Regiment in Wilkes-Barre; PA where is the S3 Operations Officer and full time Administrative Officer. He specializes in indirect fire support as well as Joint Air Operations Command and Control.
Jeremy, married his wife Corey in 2010 and they have two children Toby (5) and Mackenzie (3) they still live in Marysville. Jeremy says the world is an amazing place, but he still loves living “out the valley”.
October 2021
Airman Taylor Clouser, of Marysville, PA, graduated from Susquenita High School in 2019. During her time at Susquenita, Taylor was a two-sport athlete and a captain of her field hockey team her junior and senior year. During her senior year, both the field hockey and softball teams qualified for states with the so. She was part of several clubs including National Honor Society, Varsity Club, and the Principal’s Advisor Committee. She was also awarded the honor of being the 2018 Homecoming Queen.
After graduating from SHS, ball team making it to the PIAA Final Four. Taylor went on to continue her education at Millersville University of Pennsylvania. After finishing her first year of college, she enlisted with the Pennsylvania Air National Guard. She took a leave of absence from school to attend basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. She then went on to Keesler Air Force Base in Biloxi, MS to complete the administration course. She finished top of her class and was awarded the Distinguished Graduate Award.
Taylor now spends her one drill weekend a month with the 193rd Special Operations Wing where she performs administrative duties such as creating awards and decorations for members, as well as preparing official documents. She works in the Command Support Staff and helps leaders with their daily workload.
Taylor is continuing her education at Millersville University, majoring in Allied Health Technology with a concentration in Respiratory Therapy. She hopes to become a respiratory therapist and to continue serving others.
After graduating from SHS, ball team making it to the PIAA Final Four. Taylor went on to continue her education at Millersville University of Pennsylvania. After finishing her first year of college, she enlisted with the Pennsylvania Air National Guard. She took a leave of absence from school to attend basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. She then went on to Keesler Air Force Base in Biloxi, MS to complete the administration course. She finished top of her class and was awarded the Distinguished Graduate Award.
Taylor now spends her one drill weekend a month with the 193rd Special Operations Wing where she performs administrative duties such as creating awards and decorations for members, as well as preparing official documents. She works in the Command Support Staff and helps leaders with their daily workload.
Taylor is continuing her education at Millersville University, majoring in Allied Health Technology with a concentration in Respiratory Therapy. She hopes to become a respiratory therapist and to continue serving others.
September 2021
Army Lieutenant Colonel (LTC) Bradley C. Foose a 1994 graduate of Susquenita High School is the son of Marilyn and Gary Foose of Duncannon. He currently works at The United States Army War College, Carlisle Barracks and lives in Mechanicsburg, with his wife Jaime and two children Courtney (15), and Ryan (12). During his tenure at Susquenita Brad was a member of the National Honor Society and a three sport athlete. Upon high school graduation he started his military journey by attending Valley Forge Military College on a Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) scholarship. While at Valley Forge Brad was recognized by USA Today as an Academic All American, played two sports, and held multiple leadership positions, in the Corps of Cadets and ROTC. In 1996 he graduated Valley Forge summa cum laude, a distinguished military student, and commissioned into the Army. Brad went on to finish his degree at Shippensburg University before entering active duty in 1998. LTC Foose’s military career has spanned more than two decades, with multiple deployments, family moves, and overseas assignments. He has led, trained, and taught Soldiers, Paratroopers, and Rangers in all types of operations from humanitarian assistance to combat operations. Brad plans to retire from the military in 2022, stay in the local area and start his next career.
August 2021
Fred Menke graduated from Susquenita High School in 1962. While at Susquenita he played football, basketball, baseball and track (lettering all four years). Nine days after graduation from Susquenita he enlisted in the U. S. Coast Guard. After 13 weeks of basic training in Cape May, NJ, he was assigned to the U. S. Coast Guard Cutter Mackinac (WAVP-371) in New York. For 2 ½ years he served on this cutter doing Ocean Station Patrols, Search and Rescue and Drug Interdiction in the North Atlantic Ocean. The next twenty plus years were at various Coast Guard units from New York, Washington, D.C. and Harrisburg until his retirement in 1985 with 23 years active service with the U. S. Coast Guard.
Upon retirement from the U. S. Coast Guard in 1985 as a Senior Chief Petty Officer (E-8) he was hired by the PA Fish and Boat Commission in Harrisburg as there Aids-to-Navigation Coordinator. Other duty assignments were, Boating Programs, managing Marina's in Erie, PA and working with Law Enforcement on safety issues on Commonwealth Waterways. He retired after 20 years from the PA Fish and Boat Commission.
He is a long time member of the VFW and American Legion.
He has two children, a son, Fred who also graduated from Susquenita in 1991 and a daughter Theresa Ford who graduated from Trinity HS in 1985. He also has three grandchildren, Cara Ford (just graduated from Shippensburg University), Joey Menke (senior at Boiling Springs HS) and Andrew Menke (sophomore at Boiling Springs HS).
He lives in Boiling Springs, PA since retiring in 2005.
Fred says, “I am proud to be a SHS graduate and a veteran of the U. S. Coast Guard”.
Upon retirement from the U. S. Coast Guard in 1985 as a Senior Chief Petty Officer (E-8) he was hired by the PA Fish and Boat Commission in Harrisburg as there Aids-to-Navigation Coordinator. Other duty assignments were, Boating Programs, managing Marina's in Erie, PA and working with Law Enforcement on safety issues on Commonwealth Waterways. He retired after 20 years from the PA Fish and Boat Commission.
He is a long time member of the VFW and American Legion.
He has two children, a son, Fred who also graduated from Susquenita in 1991 and a daughter Theresa Ford who graduated from Trinity HS in 1985. He also has three grandchildren, Cara Ford (just graduated from Shippensburg University), Joey Menke (senior at Boiling Springs HS) and Andrew Menke (sophomore at Boiling Springs HS).
He lives in Boiling Springs, PA since retiring in 2005.
Fred says, “I am proud to be a SHS graduate and a veteran of the U. S. Coast Guard”.
July 2021
Bob Ford graduated from Susquenita in 1957. He holds a Bachelor of Business from Penn State University, and a Master of Governmental Administration from the University of Pennsylvania. He was a Marine infantryman, serving as clerk, radio operator and machine gunner. While a student under the GI Bill, he started a volunteer counseling program, by veterans for veterans, to help fellow veterans get into college. Upon graduation from Penn State in 1970, his program was adopted by Governor Shafer as Pennsylvania’s Program to Advance Veterans Education (PAVE), with Ford as Director, and with counseling centers at over 50 campuses, eventually aided thousands of Pennsylvania veterans to receive a college degree. He was appointed to the national Veteran’s Education and Training Action Committee (VETAC) where he served with Bob Hope, Neil Armstrong and General William Westmoreland, and he was one of three veterans, along with John Kerry and John O’Neill, invited to address the 1971 national convention of the National League of Cities, U.S. Conference of Mayors. Also in 1971, he was selected by the Pennsylvania Jaycees as one of Three Outstanding Young Men in Pennsylvania.
In 1971, Ford was appointed by President Nixon to replace Brigadier General Henry Gross as Pennsylvania State Director of the Selective Service System, becoming, at age 31, the youngest draft director in the history of the United States, where he supervised the second largest operation in the Selective Service System, with over 70 Field Grade Officers, active and reserve, from all branches of the U.S. military, 176 Draft Boards, and over 800,000 registrants. He quickly changed many draft boards in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh from all white to all black members, appointed many women to draft boards. He also appointed the first 18-year-old draft board member in U.S. history, and to emphasize fairness in Pennsylvania, he personally handed the draft notice to his own brother-in-law, who was subsequently inducted into the U. S. Army. Ford was awarded the Selective Service Silver medal, and two Bronze medals for his performance. At the request of Governor Shapp, to celebrate the 1973 homecoming of Pennsylvania’s P.O.W’s, Ford originated a new program which was to become the Governor’s Veterans Action Centers, which operated until 2010.
In 1989, Ford had a private clubs’ liquor license revoked for racial discrimination against a retired U. S. Army veteran. Bob Ford’s latest successful project, on Memorial Day, May 29, 2006, was to have the Newville, Pennsylvania Post Office named in honor of SFC Randall D. Shughart, Medal of Honor recipient for the 1993 Battle of Mogadishu, Somalia. His two books on Amazon.Com are: “War Against the US Navy,” and “The Freeh Distort.” The former written to restore equality, and Agent-Orange disability benefits, to those sailors and Marines who served aboard ship during the Vietnam War. The latter to closer examine the Freeh Report on the Pennsylvania State University. Ford is an old rodeo cowboy, a founding member of Chi Gamma Iota (XGI) Penn State Harrisburg, and a member of Penn State Marines.
In 1971, Ford was appointed by President Nixon to replace Brigadier General Henry Gross as Pennsylvania State Director of the Selective Service System, becoming, at age 31, the youngest draft director in the history of the United States, where he supervised the second largest operation in the Selective Service System, with over 70 Field Grade Officers, active and reserve, from all branches of the U.S. military, 176 Draft Boards, and over 800,000 registrants. He quickly changed many draft boards in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh from all white to all black members, appointed many women to draft boards. He also appointed the first 18-year-old draft board member in U.S. history, and to emphasize fairness in Pennsylvania, he personally handed the draft notice to his own brother-in-law, who was subsequently inducted into the U. S. Army. Ford was awarded the Selective Service Silver medal, and two Bronze medals for his performance. At the request of Governor Shapp, to celebrate the 1973 homecoming of Pennsylvania’s P.O.W’s, Ford originated a new program which was to become the Governor’s Veterans Action Centers, which operated until 2010.
In 1989, Ford had a private clubs’ liquor license revoked for racial discrimination against a retired U. S. Army veteran. Bob Ford’s latest successful project, on Memorial Day, May 29, 2006, was to have the Newville, Pennsylvania Post Office named in honor of SFC Randall D. Shughart, Medal of Honor recipient for the 1993 Battle of Mogadishu, Somalia. His two books on Amazon.Com are: “War Against the US Navy,” and “The Freeh Distort.” The former written to restore equality, and Agent-Orange disability benefits, to those sailors and Marines who served aboard ship during the Vietnam War. The latter to closer examine the Freeh Report on the Pennsylvania State University. Ford is an old rodeo cowboy, a founding member of Chi Gamma Iota (XGI) Penn State Harrisburg, and a member of Penn State Marines.
June 2021
Jonathan Parkes Remley Bigley, Susquenita High School class of 2007 is a veteran of the US Army Reserves in which he proudly served for 12 years. He graduated basic training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma in 2008 and shortly afterward graduated as an interior electrician from Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri.
Spc. Bigley was attached to the 358th Engineer Company in New Cumberland when he volunteered to deploy to Afghanistan in 2011 as part of Operation Enduring Freedom. For nearly a year he was assigned to FOB Walton, a secure Forward Operating Base in the Kandahar Region of Afghanistan, but spent much of that time outside of the FOB building other bases across Afghanistan.
Upon returning from Afghanistan, Jonathan drew upon his military training to work under pressure and in adverse conditions when he worked for a number of years building cell towers, often finding himself in the position of talking down and safely rescuing coworkers who panicked at the heights of the towers. He now is employed by the Navy as a civilian electrician at the Naval Support Activity (Navy Supply Depot) in Mechanicsburg.
Jonathan enjoys family activities as well as hunting, fishing, and other outdoor activities.
Spc. Bigley was attached to the 358th Engineer Company in New Cumberland when he volunteered to deploy to Afghanistan in 2011 as part of Operation Enduring Freedom. For nearly a year he was assigned to FOB Walton, a secure Forward Operating Base in the Kandahar Region of Afghanistan, but spent much of that time outside of the FOB building other bases across Afghanistan.
Upon returning from Afghanistan, Jonathan drew upon his military training to work under pressure and in adverse conditions when he worked for a number of years building cell towers, often finding himself in the position of talking down and safely rescuing coworkers who panicked at the heights of the towers. He now is employed by the Navy as a civilian electrician at the Naval Support Activity (Navy Supply Depot) in Mechanicsburg.
Jonathan enjoys family activities as well as hunting, fishing, and other outdoor activities.
May 2021
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Benjamin Eppley is a Susquenita graduate of the class of 2011. The summer proceeding his graduation, Ben went to the United States’ Marine Corps boot camp and became a field radio operator in the United State Marine Corp Reserves. Once he graduated from active duty training, Ben went on to pursue his education in criminal justice at West Chester University while continuing his reservist duties for the Marine Corps. Ben is the son of Rosario Eppley (Spanish Teacher at Susquenita) and Bryon Eppley (Previously served as a School Board Member). His brother, Andrew Eppley, and his sister Anne Eppley are also SHS graduates. As a Susquenita student, Ben volunteered his time with the school Fall plays, Spring musicals, Model UN, the basketball team, and the track and field squad.
Through his six committed years with the Marines, Ben attended active-duty trainings in Morocco, Africa, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Fort Drum, New York, Twenty-Nine Palms, California, Fort Worth, Texas, and McGuire Airforce Base, New Jersey. During his years in the reserves, Ben promoted from the rank of private to sergeant, while receiving certificates of commendation for superior performance in standardized military evaluations. As he promoted to corporal, Ben was sent to Fort Worth, Texas for a Corporal’s leadership course in which he earned the award of honor graduate. As a marine, Ben would frequently volunteer his time for Toys for Tots. As a hobby, Ben picked up weightlifting to stay in shape for the Marines. He competed in a powerlifting competition where he earned three military world records in the squat, deadlift, and overall weight lifted, ranking first in his division.
While attending West Chester University, Ben joined Delta Chi Fraternity where he served as the social chair and community service chair during his years of brotherhood. Ben started adopt-a-block for his organization where they would choose a block in the local community to help keep clean. Benjamin also joined the Student Veteran’s Group in which he also served as the community service chair. With this organization, he also implemented the adopt-a-block residential clean-up program and organized the collection of care packages for veterans serving overseas. Benjamin persevered in his academics and graduated after four years at West Chester University with the acknowledgement of Cum Laude.
After six years committed to the reserves and four years to his education, Ben joined the Pennsylvania State Police Academy and became a Pennsylvania State Trooper in 2019. He has since moved to Philadelphia as he is stationed in Delaware County, PA. During his time with the State Troopers, he earned trooper of the month honor as well as a certificate of commendation for superior performance in the field. He continues to strive to serve his community as best as he can to ensure the safety of all.
Through his six committed years with the Marines, Ben attended active-duty trainings in Morocco, Africa, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Fort Drum, New York, Twenty-Nine Palms, California, Fort Worth, Texas, and McGuire Airforce Base, New Jersey. During his years in the reserves, Ben promoted from the rank of private to sergeant, while receiving certificates of commendation for superior performance in standardized military evaluations. As he promoted to corporal, Ben was sent to Fort Worth, Texas for a Corporal’s leadership course in which he earned the award of honor graduate. As a marine, Ben would frequently volunteer his time for Toys for Tots. As a hobby, Ben picked up weightlifting to stay in shape for the Marines. He competed in a powerlifting competition where he earned three military world records in the squat, deadlift, and overall weight lifted, ranking first in his division.
While attending West Chester University, Ben joined Delta Chi Fraternity where he served as the social chair and community service chair during his years of brotherhood. Ben started adopt-a-block for his organization where they would choose a block in the local community to help keep clean. Benjamin also joined the Student Veteran’s Group in which he also served as the community service chair. With this organization, he also implemented the adopt-a-block residential clean-up program and organized the collection of care packages for veterans serving overseas. Benjamin persevered in his academics and graduated after four years at West Chester University with the acknowledgement of Cum Laude.
After six years committed to the reserves and four years to his education, Ben joined the Pennsylvania State Police Academy and became a Pennsylvania State Trooper in 2019. He has since moved to Philadelphia as he is stationed in Delaware County, PA. During his time with the State Troopers, he earned trooper of the month honor as well as a certificate of commendation for superior performance in the field. He continues to strive to serve his community as best as he can to ensure the safety of all.
April 2021
Graci May graduated from Susquenita in the class of 2016. After a year out of high school, she joined the United States Navy to become an Aviation Rescue Swimmer and left for boot camp in August of 2017.
Through her years in the Navy, she resided in Pensacola, FL and Coronado, CA, finally settling in Jacksonville, FL. During that time, she completed many courses in training for her current position serving as a qualified Aircrewman (AWR2), working with the HSM 70 Spartans.
Graci has flown over 500 hours in the MH-60R Helicopter, completing various training exercises and missions including: SAR swimmer deployment into the water from the helicopter, surface warfare, submarine tracking, emergency MEDEVACS, parts and passenger transfers and SAR live hoisting operations on board USS Winston S Churchill. Additionally, she completed a nine
month deployment to the middle east in support of the Freedom of Navigation operations.
Graci is the daughter of Amy Kepner and Thomas May, as well as her stepfather, who is an important figure in her life, Andy
Kepner. She has four brothers: Brennan, Devin and Cody May and Andrew Kepner.
Through her years in the Navy, she resided in Pensacola, FL and Coronado, CA, finally settling in Jacksonville, FL. During that time, she completed many courses in training for her current position serving as a qualified Aircrewman (AWR2), working with the HSM 70 Spartans.
Graci has flown over 500 hours in the MH-60R Helicopter, completing various training exercises and missions including: SAR swimmer deployment into the water from the helicopter, surface warfare, submarine tracking, emergency MEDEVACS, parts and passenger transfers and SAR live hoisting operations on board USS Winston S Churchill. Additionally, she completed a nine
month deployment to the middle east in support of the Freedom of Navigation operations.
Graci is the daughter of Amy Kepner and Thomas May, as well as her stepfather, who is an important figure in her life, Andy
Kepner. She has four brothers: Brennan, Devin and Cody May and Andrew Kepner.
March 2021
Captain Marty Erdossy was raised in Marysville where he spent his teen years working in his family’s service station. Before graduating from Susquenita High School in 1971, he spilt his school day between the college preparatory curriculum and the inaugural class of the Cumberland and Perry Area Vocational Technical School’s Automotive Technology course. Marty attributes his professional success to this perfect blend of the rigor of academics and practical hands-on vocational experience.
He began his Navy career as an enlisted Aviation Machinist Mate performing maintenance on various jet aircraft in Training Squadron Ten in Pensacola, Florida. After a few years, he was selected for the Naval Enlisted Scientific Education Program where he attended the University of Louisville attaining a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering and a Commission as a U. S Navy Ensign in 1978. He then earned his Naval Aviator “Wings of Gold” and became an E-2C Hawkeye Airborne Early Warning aircraft pilot and spent much of the next fifteen years flying from the decks of our Navy’s aircraft carriers during the Cold War and several combat operations in the middle east. Marty was also trained as a test pilot at Patuxent River, Maryland. After learning the science and engineering necessary to evaluate an aircraft’s flying qualities and performance, he conducted a variety of flight test and carrier suitability projects for various Navy aircraft.
His responsibilities continued to grow and in 1992, he became the Commanding Officer of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron One Fifteen (VAW-115) onboard the USS Independence home ported in Yokosuka, Japan. In 1995, he was selected for the Naval Nuclear Power program which included two years of master’s degree level education in mathematics, physics, chemistry and reactor operations. This training is a prerequisite for assignment as Commanding Officer of a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier. Upon completion he was assigned as the Executive Officer of the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 73). He then served as Commanding Officer of the Fast Combat Support Ship, USS Arctic (AOE-8). Captain Erdossy’s ultimate responsibility and his greatest reward was serving as the Commanding Officer of the USS George Washington (CVN 73). Responsible for every aspect of the operation of the ship and its two nuclear reactors, he guided over 5000 ship and air wing personnel through two very successful deployments in support of combat operations in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Staff assignments included Pentagon tours serving as the Deputy Chief of Naval Operations Director of Anti-Terrorism and Force Protection, the Requirements Officer for Aircraft Carrier Programs, and the Requirements Officer for Naval Tactical Data Links. After ten cruises and over five thousand flight hours in over thirty different types of aircraft, he retired from the U. S. Navy in November of 2005. During his career Captain Erdossy was awarded the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal, Navy Commendation Medal along with numerous other unit and campaign awards.
After leaving the Naval Service, Marty has continued to support the Navy’s aircraft carrier programs as a contractor and most recently as the Director of Aircraft Carrier Program Customer Relations for Huntington Ingalls Industries. Marty and his wife of nearly 50 years, Joyce live in Northern Virginia. The Erdossy’s have two incredible sons and four grandchildren.
He began his Navy career as an enlisted Aviation Machinist Mate performing maintenance on various jet aircraft in Training Squadron Ten in Pensacola, Florida. After a few years, he was selected for the Naval Enlisted Scientific Education Program where he attended the University of Louisville attaining a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering and a Commission as a U. S Navy Ensign in 1978. He then earned his Naval Aviator “Wings of Gold” and became an E-2C Hawkeye Airborne Early Warning aircraft pilot and spent much of the next fifteen years flying from the decks of our Navy’s aircraft carriers during the Cold War and several combat operations in the middle east. Marty was also trained as a test pilot at Patuxent River, Maryland. After learning the science and engineering necessary to evaluate an aircraft’s flying qualities and performance, he conducted a variety of flight test and carrier suitability projects for various Navy aircraft.
His responsibilities continued to grow and in 1992, he became the Commanding Officer of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron One Fifteen (VAW-115) onboard the USS Independence home ported in Yokosuka, Japan. In 1995, he was selected for the Naval Nuclear Power program which included two years of master’s degree level education in mathematics, physics, chemistry and reactor operations. This training is a prerequisite for assignment as Commanding Officer of a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier. Upon completion he was assigned as the Executive Officer of the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 73). He then served as Commanding Officer of the Fast Combat Support Ship, USS Arctic (AOE-8). Captain Erdossy’s ultimate responsibility and his greatest reward was serving as the Commanding Officer of the USS George Washington (CVN 73). Responsible for every aspect of the operation of the ship and its two nuclear reactors, he guided over 5000 ship and air wing personnel through two very successful deployments in support of combat operations in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Staff assignments included Pentagon tours serving as the Deputy Chief of Naval Operations Director of Anti-Terrorism and Force Protection, the Requirements Officer for Aircraft Carrier Programs, and the Requirements Officer for Naval Tactical Data Links. After ten cruises and over five thousand flight hours in over thirty different types of aircraft, he retired from the U. S. Navy in November of 2005. During his career Captain Erdossy was awarded the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal, Navy Commendation Medal along with numerous other unit and campaign awards.
After leaving the Naval Service, Marty has continued to support the Navy’s aircraft carrier programs as a contractor and most recently as the Director of Aircraft Carrier Program Customer Relations for Huntington Ingalls Industries. Marty and his wife of nearly 50 years, Joyce live in Northern Virginia. The Erdossy’s have two incredible sons and four grandchildren.
February 2021
Captain Mark Rice is a 1988 graduate of Susquenita. Then known as "Chuck", he was class valedictorian, president of the National Honor Society, president of the Spanish Club, and played baseball and soccer.
He is currently serving as Commanding Officer, Naval Sea Logistics Center, Mechanicsburg, PA. His previous assignment was Director, Submarine and Aircraft Carrier Operations, NAVSUP Weapon Systems Support, Mechanicsburg, PA.
Captain Rice, a Duncannon, Pennsylvania native, received his commission from Officer Candidate School in 1995. He is a 1992 graduate of Dickinson College with a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics. Additionally, he holds a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Pittsburgh and a Master of Arts degree in National Security and Strategic Studies from the Naval War College.
His sea duty assignments include tours in USS Cimarron (AO 177), USS Preble (DDG 88), and as Supply Officer in USS Bataan (LHD 5). He also deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom as a member of the Coalition Naval Transition Team in Umm Qasr, Iraq.
His shore assignments include tours in Naval Sea Systems Command, Afloat Training Group Pacific, Naval Inventory Control Point, Defense Logistics Agency, U.S. Fleet Forces Command, and Naval Supply Systems Command.
A member of the Defense Acquisition Corps and a Joint Qualified Officer, Captain Rice has earned Supply Corps warfare qualifications in surface and aviation warfare. Personal awards include the Legion of Merit, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, and Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, among unit and campaign commendations.
He is currently serving as Commanding Officer, Naval Sea Logistics Center, Mechanicsburg, PA. His previous assignment was Director, Submarine and Aircraft Carrier Operations, NAVSUP Weapon Systems Support, Mechanicsburg, PA.
Captain Rice, a Duncannon, Pennsylvania native, received his commission from Officer Candidate School in 1995. He is a 1992 graduate of Dickinson College with a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics. Additionally, he holds a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Pittsburgh and a Master of Arts degree in National Security and Strategic Studies from the Naval War College.
His sea duty assignments include tours in USS Cimarron (AO 177), USS Preble (DDG 88), and as Supply Officer in USS Bataan (LHD 5). He also deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom as a member of the Coalition Naval Transition Team in Umm Qasr, Iraq.
His shore assignments include tours in Naval Sea Systems Command, Afloat Training Group Pacific, Naval Inventory Control Point, Defense Logistics Agency, U.S. Fleet Forces Command, and Naval Supply Systems Command.
A member of the Defense Acquisition Corps and a Joint Qualified Officer, Captain Rice has earned Supply Corps warfare qualifications in surface and aviation warfare. Personal awards include the Legion of Merit, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, and Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, among unit and campaign commendations.
January 2021
John W. Stokes graduated from Susquenita 1968. He entered the Air Force and did his basic training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. While serving he attended the USAF technical school in Illinois as well as the US Air Force University. John completed tours of duty in Thailand, Viet Nam, Spain, Italy and Puerto Rico. After twenty-one years of service, he retired from the Air Force as an E6, Technical Sergeant
Upon retirement he continued to serve his country for thirty-two years as an employee of the Department of Defense.
He has been married to Barbara Dissinger Stokes for over fifty years and has three children: Casey, Jessica, and Josh. All of the members of his family graduated from Susquenita.
Upon retirement he continued to serve his country for thirty-two years as an employee of the Department of Defense.
He has been married to Barbara Dissinger Stokes for over fifty years and has three children: Casey, Jessica, and Josh. All of the members of his family graduated from Susquenita.
December 2020
Colby Houser, of Marysville, PA, graduated from Susquenita High School in 2019. After graduation, he began his training within the U.S. Army Reserve at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri as a military police (MP) soldier. Colby achieved the company’s Leadership Award, along with several other recognitions upon completion of his training. As an MP in the U.S. Army, he performs law enforcement operations in a garrison environment, including investigations, and responding to criminal activity. Additionally, he serves combat missions to ensure the safety and security of our country. Private First Class Houser is currently stationed at the Ashley, PA U.S. Army Reserve Center to maintain his skills while awaiting deployment. This includes attending advanced Army schools to further his military career and increase his skills to defend the nation. Furthermore, Colby studies criminal justice at Shippensburg University to pursue a career as a Pennsylvania State Police Trooper.
November 2020
Michael Wright was one of 13 children,10 boys and three girls. Mike was born on January 18th 1950, died on March 24th 1971 in Khe Sanh, Vietnam in a mortar attack. He was 21 years old. He died on his mother’s birthday. His family lived in Bucks Valley and the kids attended school in Newport. When Mike was around ten years of age his parents and whatever children still living at home at the time, moved to Houston Texas. His mom and several of the younger boys returned to PA around 1967 and lived in Duncannon. Mike graduated from Susquenita High School in 1968. He was drafted into the Army in 1970, left for Vietnam in October of that year, and he came home in a flag draped box 5 months later. He was buried in April 1971 in Union cemetery in Duncannon with military honors. Mike’s graduation picture is included in the permanent display “Susquenita Remembers the ‘60’s” at the high school.
October 2020
Army Pvt. David E. Dietrich always had a smile on his face no matter what the circumstances and had a personality that endeared you to him almost immediately after meeting him. Although homeless after age 14 he maintained a positive outlook on life and he enjoyed every minute of it.
David never missed a day of school while attending Susquenita High School, was a member of the SHS Football Team, and graduated in 2004. After graduation, he attended Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology in Lancaster to learn collision repair.
David was a regular attending member of the Marysville Church of God and an active member of the Marysville Fire Company. He was also a beloved member of the Marysville Boy Scout Troop 56 attaining the rank of Life Scout before aging out. David continued serving the Troop as an Assistant Scoutmaster until joining the Army. He was a people person and would spend hours helping a friend if needed. Many times he was observed giving away some of his meager possessions if another needed the item. He truly followed the Boy Scout Laws that governed how to lead a purposeful life.
David enlisted in the Army and was assigned as a Scout to the 1st Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, Friedberg, Germany. Less than two months after his unit arrived in Iraq he died Dec. 29, 2006 of wounds sustained when his unit came in contact with enemy forces using small arms fire while on combat patrol in Ramadi, Iraq.
State route 850 through Marysville was designated as the Private David E. Dietrich Memorial Highway. David’s Walk, a one mile walking path located in the Marysville Lions Park, was constructed as an Eagle Scout Project by Joel Hammaker of Troop 56 to honor David’s memory. David is buried at Indiantown Gap National Cemetary, Annville, Lebanon County, Pennsylvania. Grave Memorial 17280472.
David never missed a day of school while attending Susquenita High School, was a member of the SHS Football Team, and graduated in 2004. After graduation, he attended Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology in Lancaster to learn collision repair.
David was a regular attending member of the Marysville Church of God and an active member of the Marysville Fire Company. He was also a beloved member of the Marysville Boy Scout Troop 56 attaining the rank of Life Scout before aging out. David continued serving the Troop as an Assistant Scoutmaster until joining the Army. He was a people person and would spend hours helping a friend if needed. Many times he was observed giving away some of his meager possessions if another needed the item. He truly followed the Boy Scout Laws that governed how to lead a purposeful life.
David enlisted in the Army and was assigned as a Scout to the 1st Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, Friedberg, Germany. Less than two months after his unit arrived in Iraq he died Dec. 29, 2006 of wounds sustained when his unit came in contact with enemy forces using small arms fire while on combat patrol in Ramadi, Iraq.
State route 850 through Marysville was designated as the Private David E. Dietrich Memorial Highway. David’s Walk, a one mile walking path located in the Marysville Lions Park, was constructed as an Eagle Scout Project by Joel Hammaker of Troop 56 to honor David’s memory. David is buried at Indiantown Gap National Cemetary, Annville, Lebanon County, Pennsylvania. Grave Memorial 17280472.
September 2020
Ed Straw proudly graduated with the great class of 1957 from Susquenita High School. While at SHS he wrote a regular column in the Susquenita Times under the byline, Barney Blackhawk. He was offered a Navy ROTC scholarship to Penn and an appointment to the Naval Academy in Annapolis. At the urging of his father, who told him there had never been an Admiral from a Perry County—a county named after Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry—or a graduate from Annapolis, he chose Annapolis. It was a tough four years and he attributed his success to the roots he got from his hard working parents and the excellent education he received at Susquenita, from excellent teachers and coaches such as Bernie Shalonis, Michael Gustav, Paul Reed, and Joe Johnson. Following graduation from Annapolis, he spent 35 years as a Naval officer and attained the rank of Vice Admiral. His private sector career included senior executive positions at Ryder Logistics, Compaq Computer Corporation and Estee Lauder in New York City. Following retirement from Estee Lauder, he founded and still manages Osprey Venture Partners, a firm that finds investment capital for young entrepreneurs.
He and his wife Chris live in Georgetown, DC and have three wonderful daughters—Silvana, Meg and Katie.
Ed says, “I am proud to be our SHS class president and remain close to our class today because of the great networking of our dedicated class secretary, Ms. Phyllis Leonhard.
“It is my honor to be the first veteran featured on the new SBF website and I am committed to supporting the Foundation financially and strongly recommend that other graduates contribute as well.”
He and his wife Chris live in Georgetown, DC and have three wonderful daughters—Silvana, Meg and Katie.
Ed says, “I am proud to be our SHS class president and remain close to our class today because of the great networking of our dedicated class secretary, Ms. Phyllis Leonhard.
“It is my honor to be the first veteran featured on the new SBF website and I am committed to supporting the Foundation financially and strongly recommend that other graduates contribute as well.”
