The induction of LTC Mark Martin, former Professor of Military Science at the University of Texas at Arlington from 1997 to 2001, into the
Hall of Honor became more than just a ceremony—it turned into a reunion decades in the making. Former cadets who served under Martin during his time leading the Maverick Battalion traveled from across the country to be present for the occasion and to honor a leader who had a lasting impact on their lives.
On the afternoon of Friday the 27th, the group gathered at the National Medal of Honor Museum, where they toured the newly opened museum and reconnected after many years apart. For many in attendance, it had been more than 20 years since they had last seen one another, making the reunion especially meaningful.
Later that evening, the group continued the celebration with dinner at J. Gilligan’s Bar & Grill, a long-standing Arlington gathering spot. The evening was filled with stories, laughter, and memories from their days as cadets. Conversations quickly returned to shared ROTC experiences, early Army careers, and the lasting influence of LTC Martin’s leadership.
Those who gathered included former cadets from multiple commissioning classes, along with family members and longtime friends of the program. Among those attending were:
ROTC Leadership and Staff
- LTC Mark Martin – Former Professor of Military Science (1997–2001)
- Barbara Martin – Spouse
- Miguel Castillo – Former Human Resources Administrator
- Brenda Aylesworth – Former ROTC Administrative Assistant
Former Cadets
- Aaron Brown – 2001
- Kimberly Brown – 2005
- Ernesto “Ernie” Campos – 2001
- Jason Gay – 2001
- Michael Conner – 2002
- Sam Shepherd – 2000
- Jessica (Priebe) Matsler – 2002
- Jessica Newman – 2001
- Jay Bradley – 2002
- Russ Wells – 2001
- Glenn Darrow – 2002
- Bryan Compton – 1998
- Mary (Oppenheim) Dye – 1998
Family Members
- Lacey Gay – Spouse
- Chris Thebeau – Spouse
- Garrett Wells – Son
- Nolan Wells – Son
- Colby Wells – Son
- Toby Darrow – Son
- Karen Compton – Spouse
The dinner also welcomed CCAC President, BG (Ret) Ricky Gibbs, who joined the group for the evening. Gibbs and Martin share a long friendship, having once been neighbors and hunting partners.
While the Hall of Honor ceremony recognized LTC Martin’s professional accomplishments and service, the reunion highlighted something equally meaningful: the lasting bonds formed among Maverick Battalion cadets. Even after decades apart, the friendships forged during their ROTC years remained strong, and the opportunity to gather again in Arlington made the weekend a memorable one for everyone involved.