Meet Our 2010 Scholarship Winners

Brief statements from 19 of our 2010 Scholarship Winners.

Jennifer Hormell, daughter of James Hormell, HHT 3/11, 67-68

I would like to thank the 11th Armored Calvary Veterans of Vietnam and Cambodia for choosing me as the recipient of the Colonel Charles L. Schmidt Leadership award. 

This scholarship will be of great assistance to me as I strive to meet my personal educational goals and it will lift a great financial burden from my family during this time. I am honored to have received such a prestigious award from an organization made up of so many heroic individuals who selflessly fought for others. Thank you again for your kind and generous gift!

Colonel Charles L. Schmidt Memorial Scholarship; Died on Veterans Day 2007 as President of the 11th ACVVC

Wendy Bohl, daughter of Leslie Hines III, E Trp., KIA August 24, 1968

When I received the first email from Doc Rafferty telling me congratulations that I was awarded the scholarship I was in shock. I never thought I would even be considered for a scholarship. I immediately called my husband to tell him I got it. I then printed out the email and shared it with everyone I work with. I was ecstatic that I would be able to go back to school after all of these years. I then received the envelope in the mail telling me the specifics and that it would be in memory of my father, I cried and called my mom. I read her the letter and we cried together. I think we were in shock. Every time I think about this award it makes me cry. I get nervous and I start planning the courses I am going to take and then I cry some more. I have waited so long to go back to school it’s like a dream come true. My whole world has changed with this scholarship. I am so honored that I was chosen for this scholarship. I intend to do my best, and complete my degree in 3-D animation and computer illustration. I would like to thank each and every one of you for the opportunity you have given me. This award has touched my heart and the heart of my mother and my family. It is truly an honor you have given me. 

Scholarship dedicated to LT Leslie Hines; E Trp., KIA 8/24/68 
Camille Chavez, daughter of Larry Chavez, 919th Eng., 68-70

I would like to thank the 11th ACVVC for helping my family and me so much by awarding me this generous scholarship. My dad has always honored his fallen brothers and I am so proud to be awarded this scholarship in honor of Melvin East. This scholarship means that I will be more able to focus my energy and time on my studies within the Deaf Studies major at California State University Northridge. Upon graduation I would like to use my degree to teach Deaf students and with your financial support this goal is more easily attainable. I would like to convey my deepest gratitude to the family of Melvin East and all the members of the 11th ACVVC for their support. Allons!

Scholarship dedicated to PFC Melvin East; C Trp., KIA 10/14/67
Briana Colameco, daughter of Thomas Arthur Colameco, HHT Regt., 68-69

First I would like to say thank you for the generous $3,000 scholarship. It truly means the world to me and I am honored to receive this scholarship in the memory of James Bean. Not only am I grateful for this prestigious award it has truly helped me to further my education in Music at the University of Tampa. This scholarship allows me to get the building blocks I need to achieve my dreams and goals in life. So thank you again it is truly an honor.

Scholarship dedicated to PFC James Bean; How Btry. 2/11; KIA 07/21/67
Catherine Cook, daughter of Rodger Cook, 919th Eng., 69-70

Thank you so much for selecting me to receive an 11th Armored Cavalry's Veterans of Vietnam and Cambodia scholarship. It is an honor to be chosen to represent the men and women who have served our country in both Vietnam and Cambodia. This award will allow me to come one step closer to not only my goal of graduating as a RN from Saint Mary's College, but also of helping those in need. I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks toward everyone who has made this scholarship available to not only myself, but all of the recipients. 

Scholarship dedicated to Lt. Robin Wetzler; Air Cav Trp., KIA 07/10/69
Israel De La Cruz, son of Conrado De La Cruz, HHT Regt., 68-70

I have dreamed of attending nursing school ever since I was young, and now that I have been named as one of the recipients of the 11thACVVC Scholarship my dream has become a reality. I am glad to have the opportunity to thank you personally for your generosity and your service to our country. Without scholarship providers like you there would be many students such as myself unable to pursue the career they have dreamed of. I would especially like to thank my father, Conrado A. De La Cruz, a two time tour combat Vietnam Veteran, and Mr. Thomas Soto, who this scholarship is dedicated to. 

Once again, I offer my sincerest thanks for the 11thACVVC Scholarship. Thank you and God Bless You. 
Scholarship dedicated to SSG Thomas G. Soto; HHT Regt., KIA 05/18/69
Arlen Graham, Son of James Graham, G Trp., 68-70

The 11th Armored Cavalry's Veterans of Vietnam and Cambodia scholarship is the pinnacle in the efforts I put forth in order to go to and succeed in college. The money validates the hours spent sifting through and applying to the colleges I thought would be right for me. Having the ability to be (relatively) financially independent, due to the scholarship in combination with two others I receive, allows me to put one hundred percent of my self toward my work and eventual undergraduate research. I am studying biochemistry and chemistry and plan to use the knowledge I will gain at Florida State University as the launching pad for a career that will hopefully revolutionize the chemical industry and the means we take to sustain our planet while also creating the profound change in society that I have always dreamt of making. The fact that my goals are being furthered by the brave soldiers and people I met at the Cav reunions as a child only makes it more important to me. Thank you.

Scholarship dedicated to SP5 Billy Hunter; L Trp., KIA 09/01/70
Kristina Graham, daughter of Richard T. Graham, A Trp., 1967-68

I just wanted to thank the 11th ACVVC for this amazing award. Our family has three kids to put through college and I'm just the second so to win this scholarship is amazing! I would just like to thank you again for the generosity of those who have come up with the scholarship itself and to those who have presented me with it! It is truly a blessing for me, and my family. Thank you!

Scholarship dedicated to SP4 Barry Frank Scott; HHT 3/11; KIA 11/26/69
Matt McKelvey, son of Jack McKelvey, L Trp., 70-71

It is with a humble heart that I say thank you to the Association for bestowing the $3000 scholarship to me. Even more touching is the certificate and to know that it was dedicated to Larry Marshall who served his country and paid the ultimate sacrifice even before I was born. He is just one of the honored patriots that have fearlessly fought for our country and our beliefs in freedom. I will strive to do my very best in school to honor his memory and sacrifice.

This scholarship means that I will have the financial support to continue my education and pursue a career in wildlife management. I have a strong desire to help others and protect our environment. 

Again thank you and the members of the Association for the scholarship and more importantly for their service to our country.

Scholarship dedicated to SSG Larry Marshall; I Trp; KIA 02/04/71
Tuyen Nguyen, daughter of Lyle Hughbanks, L Trp., 69-70

Dear 11th ACVVC,

Words cannot describe how overjoyed I am upon receiving this scholarship. I am exceedingly grateful to everyone who makes this scholarship possible and gives me the opportunity to further my education. I will be attending University of Houston's School of Architecture in the Fall of 2010 and I will try my hardest to prove myself a worthy recipient of 11ACVVC scholarship.

Scholarship dedicated to PFC Leon Garnett; F Trp., KIA 05/04/70
Jessie Scoggins, daughter of Robert Millard Scoggins, C Trp., 1966-1967

Dear 11th ACVVC,

I can't thank you enough for choosing me as one of the recipients of this scholarship! I am truly honored to be awarded this very meaningful scholarship! This scholarship will help me in so many ways, I will be able to attend college and get my degrees so that I can give back to my community. The tuition to my college is expensive and to be awarded this money is a great relief for my wonderful mother! My dad passed away 5 years ago and I have never wanted for anything, she has always been there for me and I am glad that this will give her a break worth $3000! I am so honored to be selected, just to know that many of the committee has served this country for my freedom and for me to be able to go to college and further my education! I can't begin to thank you enough!!! I truly feel honored! Thank you so very much! God Bless You All!

Scholarship dedicated to SSG John Sinclair; HHT 2/11; KIA08/12/69
Emily Severeid, daughter of Ralph Severeid, 409th RR Det., 67-69

What this scholarship means to me: 
Being a recipient of the 11ACVVC Scholarship means a lot to me. It provides security that I can continue my education at the University of Southern Indiana, and go on to pursue a degree in Higher Education and Student Affairs. You are making my dreams of attending college attainable, just as I hope to provide that to students when I get older.

It is a great honor to receive such an award that secures my future from an organization that means so much to me and my family. My father was overjoyed with the news that I received a scholarship from something that means so much to him. Your generosity will never go unnoticed to me. Thank you so much for selecting me for this scholarship. It is such a prestigious award that is very dear to my heart.

Scholarship dedicated to SP4 Robert Morgan; B Trp., KIA 04/18/69
Scott Skrabal, Son of Edward Skrabal, HHT Regt., 68-69

I can't begin to express how thankful I am for being blessed with the opportunity to uphold an 11ACVVC Scholarship. A few months back, my family and I were unsure about how to pay for the trivial expenses of college. It looked like I would have to get an extra job. Yet because of the scholarship money, I can emphasize more time on my studies and not add in a job to an already busy schedule.

I am studying Political Science with an emphasis on International Relations. The University I attend strongly believes in service to others and I have decided to join a very prestigious service organization on campus. I would not be able to afford the time to service projects if I had to seek employment for college expenses. It is really nice to know an organization like the 11th Armored Calvary is so dedicated to the value of education. I can't wait to see how my year pans out, and it's already less stressful without having to worry about too many expenses my first year of college. I'd like to thank everyone who made this scholarship possible and alleviated the stress off of my parents and myself. 

Scholarship dedicated to Lt. Carl Shirley; 919 Eng., KIA 07/22/69
Denisha Teague, Daughter of Dennis Teague, A Trp., 67-68

What a wonderful surprise to open my e-mail and find that I received the 11th ACVVC Scholarship. It will give me the opportunity to continue my education and further my goal of becoming a psychologist. I sincerely appreciate the generosity of the 11th ACVVC. My father thanks you as well.

Scholarship dedicated to SP4 Barry L. Moyer; K Trp., KIA 03/02/68
Warren R. Turner, son of Lawrence Klein, How Btry., 2/11, 66-67

I would like to thank the organization on behalf of my acceptance for the 11th Armored Cavalry’s Veterans of Vietnam and Cambodia scholarship. Your decision for me to receive such an award will not be taken for granted. I will try my best to use such an honor for my advancement and usage of my future education and ultimately my life’s road ahead.

It is an honor to receive such an award from the 11th Armored Cavalry’s Veterans of Vietnam and Cambodia. Men and women that have served for the protection of our great nation, and other nations as well will never be forgotten. Their dedication and strong courage will be honorably reflected by present and future generations. Likewise, this scholarship will help me in becoming, a dedicated student that will work hard in the production of films. Those films will (I hope) bring awareness of the past and reflect on the despairs that came with building such a great nation. 

Scholarship dedicated to PFC Donald Waters Jr.; D Co., KIA 05/22/67
Emily Ann Williams, daughter of Terry J. Williams, F Trp., 68-69

To begin, I would like to say how much I appreciate the 11th Armored Cavalry's Veterans of Vietnam and Cambodia scholarship. The honor of receiving such a scholarship is in itself, a privilege which I am truly grateful for. 

I wanted to let you know what this scholarship means to me:
Having received such an honorable scholarship means more than money. It shows the strong bond and integrity of soldiers who served and risked their lives. It is a privilege to receive and I am humbled by it. This scholarship will make a substantial difference in the financial aspect of my educational goals. It will allow me to move more easily towards my future. I continue to feel proud to be an American and grateful to all our soldiers. I thank God for my father and men like him. Without all of you, the freedom we take for granted would not exist. It is a true honor to receive this scholarship.

Please know that my family appreciates your generosity and continued support. There aren't enough words to express my gratitude. My cup runneth over.

Scholarship dedicated to SSG John Bell; M Co., KIA 06/17/70
Aaron H. Wood, son of Larry Locke, B Trp., 68-69

Dear11th ACVVC:
I honestly cannot put into words how much your help with my education means. I would like to thank all of you who served to protect our freedom and way of life. It really amazes me, that even when times are hard, how we as Americans and Family stand together. Your decision to award me this scholarship has enabled me to continue on the path of bettering myself and my family’s well being. I thank you from the bottom of my heart. 

Scholarship dedicated to SSG VitelioVela; I Trp., KIA 02/14/68
Amy Kate Woodward, daughter of Richard Russell Jr., K Trp., 1969

I am honored to be one of the recipients of the 11th Armored Cavalry's Veterans of Vietnam and Cambodia Scholarship award. Thanks to your generous support, I will be entering my last year of Dental Hygiene School with less financial stress and will be able to spend more of my time and energy on the academic and clinical portion of the program. Growing up in a family where I was taught the significance of a dollar early on has really made me realize the value of a college education and I appreciate your support more than you'll ever know. Thank you so much for this award and assistance in pursuing my educational goals. 

Scholarship dedicated to CPT Ken Shannon; HHT 1/11, KIA 02/18/68