MMA honors NewDay USA leaders at H.M. Smith Dinner

Marine Military Academy awarded the the Iwo Jima Leadership Award to the top executives of NewDay USA at the General H.M. Smith Dinner April 6: CEO Rob Posner and Chairman Rear ADM Tom Lynch, USN (Ret).

NewDay USA is a leading mortgage lender to U.S. veterans. The NewDay USA Foundation, co-chaired by Mr. Posner and ADM Lynch, offers military school scholarships to children of disabled veterans. Both men were recognized for their life accomplishments and their firm commitment to assisting veterans.

Mr. Posner told the cadets they were all attending MMA “on scholarships” because someone cared enough about them to make the financial sacrifice for their education. Once they achieve great things, the cadets will need to pay their opportunity forward.

“You are going to go out and give back to your community. You are going to become leaders,” Mr. Posner said. “You might not believe that, but I believe it because you so are so far ahead of the other young men your own age.”

ADM Lynch advised the cadets to learn as much as possible at MMA so they can help fix the nation’s problems.

“You’re going to be the leaders of this country, whether you want to be or not,” the Admiral said. “That’s why you need to become your best.”

ADM Lynch reminded the cadets that true leaders must take care of their people.

“If you don’t put yourself last…you’re going to fall short,” he said.

Prior to the speeches, MMA inducted GySgt Frank Martinez, USMC (Ret), into the General H.M. Smith Fellow society for his career dedication to MMA.

John and Doryce DesJarlais were also inducted as Smith Fellows in spirit. The husband and wife generously supported MMA for many years until they passed.

Among the guests at the General H.M. Smith Dinner was the Coffey family from Liberty Hill, Texas. Sophomore Cody and freshman Justin received scholarships from the NewDay USA Foundation to attend MMA. Their father SSgt Clifton Coffey, USMC (Ret), is a disabled Marine veteran.

Click to see photos of 2017 General H.M. Smith Dinner.

new day foundation members 2017