MACOMB, Ill. - Western Illinois University officially welcomed Colonel Rock III to the Leatherneck family on Saturday (May 15). In a baseball pregame ceremony outside of Boyer Stadium, Richard and Beth Siess of the Siess Ranch handed over ownership to Joe Roselieb.

Athletics Director Dr. Tim Van Alstine spoke during the ceremony. Colonel Rock was also given a purple WIU collar.

Colonel Rock III is a 10-week-old English bulldog from the Siess Ranch in Seneca, Kansas. Through the efforts of George Visoky working with the Siess Family,

Dr. Karen Blakeley of All Pets Veterinary Clinic will donate health care for Colonel Rock. Dr. Bill Bailey (Director) and the WIU School of Agriculture will donate Colonel Rock's food. Roselieb, Assistant Director of Facilities in the University Housing and Dining Services Division, volunteered to house and care for the newest Leatherneck.