Every Friday the Fork Union Military Faculty and Staff meet to nominate a few who have exceeded the standards and demonstrated superlative performance. Whilst we have various awards and recognitions - a simple "Well Done!" we hope, is also appreciated. The combination of the Bravo and Zulu nautical signal flags, i.e., Bravo Zulu, also referred to as "BZ," is a naval signal, typically conveyed by flag hoist or voice radio, meaning "Well Done" with regard to actions, operations or performance.
The following are the Bravo Zulu awards for this week:
Cadet First Sergeant Brady Moring is a senior and second-year cadet in Alpha Company. He is a boarding student from Colonial Heights, VA. Cadet Moring recently completed his MEPS enrollment for enlistment in the U.S. Coast Guard. As a highly respected leader among his peers, who is praised by his subordinates, Cadet Moring is expected to make FUMA proud as a United States Sailor. Bravo Zulu, Cadet First Sergeant Moring!
Cadet Captain Sebatian Espino is a senior and third-year cadet in Battalion Staff. He is a boarding student from Mexico City, MX. Cadet Espino has been praised by the Commandant of Cadets, GySgt Coulter, for going above and beyond the call of duty to assist with accountability of the Corps. He also invested a considerable amount of time and effort in gathering cadet information for the parade script for the upcoming 125th parade. Bravo Zulu, Cadet Captain Espino!
Cadet Second Lieutenant Val Kelestyn is a sophomore and second-year cadet in Charlie Company. He is a boarding student from Miami, FL. Cadet Kelestyn volunteered his personal time this week to mentor several cadets in Charlie Company. Kelestyn’ s nurturing persona has been a wonderful aide to his TAC and his fellow cadets. Bravo Zulu, Cadet Second Lieutenant Kelestyn!
Cadet Private Gabriel Chase is a sophomore and first-year cadet in Bravo Company. He is a boarding student from Cherry Creek, NY. Cadet Chase volunteered his time this past Saturday morning to pick up branches, limbs, and debris on campus after an overnight storm. Character and initiative are part of leadership by example at FUMA. Bravo Zulu, Cadet Private Chase!
CPT Austin Benda is currently serving his first year as a Social Studies/English Instructor and Head Junior Prep Soccer Coach. Over the course of the first three weeks of school, CPT Benda has displayed a high level of positive energy both in the classroom and on the athletic field. His passion and dedication to his students and athletes is evident and has been positively contagious for cadets and adults alike. Bravo Zulu, CPT Benda!
Go FUMA!
Colonel David L. Coggins, USMC (Ret.)
President
Fork Union Military Academy