FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash -- Twelve high school seniors out of 28 area school received scholarship funds from the Fairchild Officers’ Spouses Club here April 27, 2017.
The grants range from $250 to $1,250 for military dependents who maintain a 3.5 grade point average, fill out an application, show their community involvement and submit and essay on the impact of being a military dependent.
‘”I grew up in the military, I know what they (military children) are going through,” said Libby Moore, Fairchild OSC scholarship coordinator. “It’s great to be a part of such a great cause that ensures these funds go to the right people.”
The scholarship money came from earnings donated by the Fairchild Thrift Store and has been pouring in for more than 25 years, Moore added. In 2017, more than 3,200 volunteer hours has gone into running the consignment shop.
One by one, each student ascended the stage to receive a certificate of their accomplishment and a chance to meet and shake hands with the vice wing commander, Col. Matthew Fritz.
“I was so pumped; this was the first scholarship I received,” said Matthew Newberry, son of former 92nd ARW wing commander, retired Col. Brian Newberry and recipient of a $950 scholarship. “I’m so appreciative of the hard work the volunteers at the thrift shop. Their efforts and charity truly amazes me; this will definitely make an impact on my college tuition.”
The OSC scholarship program money is awarded once a year and is applied directly to the school tuition the student is enrolled in. The scholarships are available for all branches of the military, including retired guard and reserve personnel.