ANA Pitcairn Squadron

NROTC Villanova University

The recipient of the 2008 ANA Pitcairn Squadron LT. Matthew T. Claar Memorial Sword Award at the Villanova University's NROTC Unit is Midshipman l/C Michael Salvemini. Midshipman Salvemini ranks first in his class and has been selected for naval aviation. Additionally, he excelled· in his Mechanical Engineering degree, achieving an impressive 3.74 GPA. He will undoubtedly enjoy similar success as a Naval Aviator.

The award is in memory of LT Matthew T. Claar, USN, a 1986 Villanova graduate, who was killed in a landing accident while flying an F-14 Tomcat aboard the USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN (CVN-72) on 20 July 1993, in the Eastern Indian Ocean. The sword is awarded each year to the outstanding Midshipman 1/C selected for Naval Aviation, and chosen by the NROTC Staff.

Midshipman Salvemini is an exemplary midshipman who constantly exhibits superior leadership abilities and strives for excellence in all' of his endeavors. He has proven his leadership ability while serving as the Battalion Commander for the fall 2007 semester. He was responsible for overseeing all aspects of the daily operation and training of the entire battalion of 100 midshipmen.