scholarship

Page last updated 06 Mar 2013

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2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001

2012

Descendant Winner
James N. Reynolds

L-R Jerry Dupuis, Prof. Weinstein, James' father, James, grandparents
Photo courtesy of the Publicity Office of RIT

Mr. James N. Reynolds, a Chemical Engineering major at the Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY; grandson of Association member James A. Reynolds, PFC, USMC of Oswego, NY on CL- 92 in 1945-47; one of the top students in his major with a 3.76 GPA; faculty advisor cites James’ thirst for knowledge characteristic of successful students and pursues learning with vigor and perseverance; academics balanced by volunteer activities in helping underprivileged children and coaching youth soccer; earned a presidential scholarship and works part-time and during summers to help pay his way through school.

Summary of Award Presentation details received from Jerry Dupuis, LT USNR:

On Wednesday, October 10th, I drove to Rochester, NY for the purpose of presenting a LITTLE ROCK ASSN. Scholarship Award to young JAMES N. REYNOLDS a student at The Rochester Institute of Technology.

JAMES is a Chemical Engineering major, having maintained a 3.76 GPA through his Sophomore year. James is also the grandson of JAMES A. REYNOLDS, who served on board LITTLE ROCK from 1945 to 1948, as a Marine, and currently a member in good standing w/the Association.

The Dean of the College and Prof. Weinstein (who wrote the recommendation for JAMES’ application) had prepared a special presentation event for the occasion, including snacks, lemonade, etc. In attendance were JAMES’s parents, his grandparents, the Dean, the Dean’s Assistant, Prof. Weinstein, and the University’s Publicity Director.

Only the use of superlatives are adequate to described this handsome and accomplished winner. A Dean’s List student in each of his prior semesters, JAMES is also a regular volunteer with the Children’s Board of Oswego (his home town), where he actively participates in programs such as: 1) making sure that underprivileged children receive a Christmas gift; 2) coaching a children’s soccer camp; 3) acting as Assistant Supervisor at the local swimming pool.

The College Dean, and Prof. Weinstein both addressed the gathering, and expressed sincere appreciation to the LITTLE ROCK ASSOCIATION for this recognition. For me, this event helped restore my faith in America’s youth, and the future of our Republic. The Association does no greater good than this Scholarship Program. I am most gratified for being part of it.

First Navy/Marine Winner
Sgt. Anthony D. Garner, USMC

Sgt. Anthony D. Garner, USMC; active duty Marine enrolled in Marine Enlisted Commissioning Education Program (MECEP) at the University of Idaho with a 3.7 GPA in Animal and Veterinary Science and Agricultural Accounting majors; joined the Marine Corps in 2004 and deployed to twice in support of Iraqi Freedom; crew chief in CH-53E heavy-lift ‘Super Stallion’ helicopters; Qualified as CH-53E plane captain and as instructor in operational aviation courses; unit CO praises the Sergeant’s active leadership of Marines and Marine option midshipmen in both military development and physical fitness.

Summary of Award Presentation details received from CAPT Kent R. Siegel, USN (Ret)

I presented an Association scholarship award to Staff Sergeant Antonio D. Garner, USMC on 18 October on the campus of the University of Idaho in Moscow, ID. The NROTC battalion was assembled in a lecture hall for the ceremony. Following my introduction, I extended greetings from the Association and described its makeup, purpose, and activities. In describing the 12-year history and nature of our Scholarship Program, I congratulated their unit on having had five winners of the 24 scholarships that we awarded – far and away a unit record.

Staff Sergeant Garner... a major in Agriculture Business with a 3.7 GPA, he has been commended by both his unit CO and the university president for superior scholarship. As a combat-tested veteran of 3 deployments in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom as a crew chief in CH53E heavy- lift helicopters, his leadership know-how is well developed. (His) stated objective, as he moves through college and advances in the Marine Corps, is to hone his leadership skills and to study the effective leadership traits of others that he admires. He is an enthusiastic and patient mentor of incoming students in his college major as well as the 37 Marines and Marine option midshipmen in his unit. A 3-day ‘Mini-Bulldog’ exercise he organized to strongly challenge the Marine option underclassmen - as they would eventually face in the Summer OCS course - was praised by his CO as one of the best in recent years. Following commissioning, SSgt. Garner hopes to find his way back into aviation for flight training but it will be touch-and-go on age.

The award was then presented to Staff Sergeant Garner who was happy to receive his handsome framed certificate and really happy to get his $1000 check. Marines that come to college in the Marine Enlisted Commissioning Program usually have young families and must meet all of their college and living expenses on regular pay – no stipends, free tuition, etc. – and some part-time work, so our scholarship money is like manna from Heaven. I closed with a BRAVO ZULU for the unit staff and battalion members for sending us a candidate of SSgt. Garner’s quality.

Following the ceremony, the principals stood for photography and a time to chat with SSgt Garner, a rather quiet young man who "makes big things happen, then slides back among his troops”. As in my previous trips... I spent time with the skipper, CAPT Greg Eaton, a Naval Aviator (Helicopters), his XO, CDR Alex Greig, a Surface Warfare Officer, and my ‘minder’, LT Vince Alvarado, a Naval Flight Officer. Above all, I consider it a very uplifting experience to mingle with... the cream of the crop of young Americans who are destined to lead our military in meeting the tough challenges of the years ahead.

The following letter wad received by Capt. Kent Siegel
subsequent to his visit to the University of Idaho
(Click to expand)

Second Navy/Marine Winner

MIDN Margaret E. Tarmann, USNR

MIDN Margaret E. Tarmann, USNR, daughter of a Coast Guardsman; attached to NROTC Unit at University of Virginia where she majors in Environmental Science with a 3.9 GPA; academic excellence with heavy course load of 23 credit hours in spring 2012 semester ranks her first in her NROTC class; Unit CO cites her strong work ethic and uncanny ability to manage her time as qualifications that set her apart from peers; active in a sorority, the Women’s Leadership Development Program, tutoring international students in English and work at a local animal shelter.

Summary of Award Presentation details received from LCDR Bob Baker, USN (Ret):

On Thursday October 4th, 2012, I visited the University of Virginia campus in Charlottesville, VA for an early morning scholarship presentation. I met and chatted with NROTC Unit CO Capt. Mike Cashman and his XO, CDR Mike Kunkel. The presentation was to made before the entire NROTC battalion.

After briefing the battalion about our organization, ship, and Scholarship Program, I presented a framed scholarship certificate, a USS Little Rock Association ball cap, and a check for $1000 to Midshipman 2/C Margaret E. Tarmann. She is the daughter of a U.S. Coast Guard veteran, is majoring in Environmental Science (with a GPA of 3.94), and is ranked number one in her NROTC class. She also was accepted to and completed two prestigious leadership programs: the Blueprint Emerging Leaders Program and the Women’s Leadership Development Program while carrying a heavy course load, volunteering with International Students and Scholars, and remaining active in her sorority and meeting other NROTC commitments.

It is indeed gratifying to meet with these the young men and women who are future leaders of our Navy and Marine Corps. Our Scholarship Program is, without question, one of the most important things we do as an organization, and I urge all members to generously support it.

2011

First Navy/Marine Winner
MIDN 2/C Elizabeth Schroff

USS Little Rock Association Scholarship Committee member Bob Baker provided the following details regarding the 2011 Scholarship award to Midshipman 2/C Elizabeth Schroff on Wednesday, September 28th, 2011.

This year's Scholarship presentation was made during a late afternoon drill assembly in Jordan Hall of Science at the University of Notre Dame before the entire NROTC battalion. Also in attendance were Captain Clarence Earl Carter, NROTC CO, his entire staff, and the Dean of Student Affairs and several faculty members from St. Mary’s College.

Bob relates "After briefing the battalion about our organization, ship, and Scholarship Program, I presented the second $1000 installment of the 2010 scholarship award to Midshipman 1/C Taylor Sheppard. She is the Battalion Commander for the academic year, which is the top leadership position within the NROTC Unit. She hopes to serve in submarines following her graduation next spring.

I then addressed Midshipman 2/C Elizabeth Schroff, the 2011 Scholarship Awardee, and presented her with a framed Scholarship Certificate, and a check for $1000."

Midshipman Schroff is the daughter of CAPT Richard Schroff, USN. She is a biology major at St. Mary’s College in South Bend (a cross-town affiliate of the University of Notre Dame) and has a 3.9 GPA. Midn Schroff was ranked number one in a highly competitive sophomore class of 30 midshipmen, she participates in the Trident Naval Society, the Public Affairs Staff, and the NROTC and Tri-Mil ROTC Color Guards. Additionally, she is the President of the Future Women Doctor’s Club and hopes to become a flight surgeon. Her awards include the Academic Excellence Award, the Leadership Award, the General Society of the War of 1812 Award, and the American Legion General Military Excellence Award.

Captain Carter asked Bob Baker to pass on to the Scholarship Committee and to the entire Little Rock Association his personal thanks and appreciation for our support of his battalion.

Bob concludes: "I consider it an honor and privilege to have had the opportunity to take this trip to Notre Dame for the third consecutive year. I feel that our Scholarship Program is, without question, one of the most important things we do as an organization, and I encourage all members to generously support it."

Second Navy/Marine Winner
Officer Candidate Elijah C. Callaghan

Report of USS LITTLE ROCK Association Scholarship Award

From: CAPT Kent R. Siegel, USN (Ret)
To: USS LITTLE ROCK Association

I presented an Association scholarship award to Officer Candidate Elijah C. Callaghan, USN on 6 October on the campus of the University of Idaho campus in Moscow, ID. The NROTC battalion was assembled as I prepared to convey the first of two $1000 checks and a handsome framed certificate to OC Callaghan. Following my introduction by the Midshipman Battalion Commander, I extended greetings from the Association and described its makeup, purpose, and activities. I then told of the service and capabilities of CL 92 and CLG 4. In describing the 11-year history and nature of our Scholarship Program, I congratulated their unit on having had four winners of the 22 scholarships that we awarded – a unit record.

Officer Candidate Callaghan was called front and center for my recitation of his background and academic record that won him our scholarship. He has established a 3.9 GPA since entering the University of Idaho as a History major. Additionally, in testament to his high level of intelligence and achievement, he was Class Leader in his course at the Navy Nuclear Power School and passed the Petty Officer First Class exam at his earliest opportunity. At that time he was selected to attend college under the Seaman to Admiral 21 Program and chose Idaho. In his unit, he mentors younger midshipmen, supports unit-sponsored events, and demonstrates strong, natural leadership on a daily basis. In addition to his academic prowess, he is a big man with a powerful physique who scored OUTSTANDING in the last physical fitness assessment. Along with all this, he and his wife have managed to raise a family with two children. Following commissioning, OC Callaghan plans to return to the Nuclear Navy in any capacity where he can best serve his country.

After making the award of the check and certificate, I closed with a BRAVO ZULU for the unit staff and battalion members for sending us a candidate of OC Callaghan’s quality; and the important role they play in providing sound leadership to our great Navy and Marine Corps…then a final thought from the Greek philosopher Thucydides in the 5th century BC, “A nation that makes too great a distinction between its scholars and its warriors is a nation that has its thinking done by cowards and its fighting done by fools.”

Following the ceremony, the principals returned to CAPT Eaton’s office for photography and a time to chat with OC Callaghan, an impressive and engaging young man. As in my previous trips to NROTC units to make our scholarship awards, I was pleased to spend time with the skipper, CAPT Greg Eaton, a Naval Aviator (Helicopters) and my host, LT Vince Alvarado, a Naval Flight Officer. Above all, I consider it a very uplifting experience to mingle with the fine young students who are destined to lead our military in the years ahead.

Very respectfully,

Kent

Descendant's Winner
Miss Erin Meyers

According to the Association's official representative Bill Stankiewicz, the presentation on Thursday September 15, 2011 of the 2001 Descendant's Scholarship Award to Erin Meyers at the University of Georgia was "extraordinary". Present when Ms. Meyers received her award were her parents John (ETN2 '73-'75 ) and Janet Meyers, the Dean of the Terry School of Business, the Dean of the Insurance Department, several of her professors as well as other members of their staff, and several of her friends at the University.

Bill related that "the Dean spoke first expressing the University's appreciation for the scholarship and the Association's participation. I then made a short speech stating the nature and purpose of the organization and the fact that some of our most important work was the scholarship program. All in all it went off in grand fashion. I thoroughly enjoyed making the presentation and look forward to such pleasant duties in the future." In addition Bill passed on that "the University went all out with an "official" photographer, and a nice spread of finger foods for the reception."

2010

First Navy/Marine Winner
MIDN Taylor N. Sheppard

MIDN 2/c Taylor N. Sheppard, is a Math Major at the University of Notre Dame. She has a 3.73 GPA, is 1st of 34 in her NROTC class and is on track to become Battalion Commander as a senior. In addition MIDN Sheppard is a Math honor student. Both of Ms. Sheppard's parents are retired naval officers who inspired her to pursue a commission in the U.S. Navy.

From:    Bob Baker, LITTLE ROCK Association Scholarship Committee Member
To:    Distribution

Subj:    USS LITTLE ROCK SCHOLARSHIP PRESENTATION REPORT

On Wednesday, September 15th, 2010, I visited the University of Notre Dame campus in South Bend, Indiana and presented the 2010 LITTLE ROCK Association scholarship award to Midshipman 2/C Taylor N. Sheppard, USNR.    The presentation was made during a late afternoon drill assembly before the entire NROTC battalion. I presented Midshipman Sheppard with a framed Scholarship Certificate, a check for $1000, and a USS Little Rock Association ball cap. In addition, I presented the second $1000 installment of the 2009 scholarship award to Midshipman 1/C David Galiyas, USNR.

Midshipman Sheppard is the daughter of two retired Naval Officers who has persevered in her quest for a commission despite personal tragedy in her life, and indeed has met all challenges head on. She is a mathematics major in the honors math program with a GPA of 3.7 who was ranked number one in her class. She is active with the Trident Naval Society, the NROTC & Tri-Mil ROTC Color Guards, the Naval Leadership Weekend staff, and recently served as the only non 1/C Midshipman on the Freshman Orientation Week staff. She has been recognized with the Academic Excellence Award, the Physical Fitness Award, the Reserve Officer’s Association award, and the Bertling Memorial Award as the top midshipman in her class.

A photo session followed the awards presentation. I invited Midshipman Sheppard to attend the 2011 USS Little Rock reunion in Buffalo. Captain Nees, the Commanding Officer of NROTC Notre Dame indicated that perhaps Midshipman Sheppard’s summer training schedule could be adjusted to accommodate attending the reunion. Should that not be possible, Midshipman Taylor and Galiyas agreed to collaborate on a video that can be shown at the reunion.

This trip to Notre Dame for the second consecutive year to visit with and recognize the achievement of future leaders of our Navy and Marine Corps was, quite simply, an awesome and truly gratifying experience. I would encourage all members to generously support our scholarship program, for I am confident that it is having a decided impact on the lives of our scholarship recipients, and that this important outreach is helping to make a difference.

/s/ Bob Baker, Lieutenant Commander, USN (Retired)

- - - - - - - -

Shortly after returning from the University of Notre Dame Bob Baker received the following note from MIDN Shepperd

19 Sep 2010

Dear Mr. Baker,

Please accept my sincerest gratitude when I say Thank You for coming out to Notre Dame. We were delighted that you were able to make the long trip and represent the Little Rock Association.

It is important for our future officers to have a knowledge of such organizations because they link the tradition of the Navy, its rich history, with its bright future. MIDN Galiyas and I are very grateful.

Please pass on to the Association and to Mr. Siegel my appreciation and thanks for the award once more. I am honored to be associated with such a group.

Very Respectfully, MIDN 2/C Sheppard

Second Navy/Marine Winner
MIDN David Cox

MIDN 2/c David A. Cox is a double History/ Political Science Major at Iowa State University with a 3.83 GPA. In addition he has attained Phi Beta Kappa honors based on ranking 10th among 356 Poly Sci. Majors and carries a 4.0 in Naval Science courses. Inspired by his Marine father, MIDN 2/c David A. Cox has chosen the U.S.M.C. commissioning option.

Sept. 9, 2010

From: Cliff Wilson
To: USS Little Rock Association Scholarship Committee
Subj: USS Little Rock 2010 Scholarship Presentation to MIDN David Cox USNR

On Thursday September 9, 2010 I met with Lt. Eric Olson, USN and Capt. Gary Waring, USN in Ames, IA on the campus of Iowa State University and presented the USS Little Rock Association 2010 Scholarship Award to Midshipman David Cox. he presentation was made during their NROTC Cyclone Battalion Awards Program with all unit members and staff present. Photos were taken and other awards were presented to other NROTC Midshipmen during the awards program. Midshipman Cox received several other honors and awards besides the USS Little Rock Association $1000 check and framed certificate that day. The staff also gave him a framed picture of the USS Little Rock.

I spoke to the NROTC unit about the USS Little Rock’s history, of her life from the past to the present, and my time while aboard her and how she got to where she is today and what the Association dies for her upkeep and how we started the Scholarship Program and Awards. I invited all of them to stop and visit her if they had a chance. Captain Waring stated that he had been stationed in Norfolk and saw the USS Little Rock docked at the pier while he was there.

Midshipman Cox has excelled in every facet of the NROTC program in Leadership, Academics, and Military Aptitude. He has received a number of awards for his accomplishments which include the Academic Excellence Award and the Scottish Rite Freemasonry Award. He has also acted as the Commander of his rifle team. He ranks at the top of his class in every category and demonstrates exemplary leadership in his unit. He is also a member of Phi Beta Kappa Society. MIDN Cox had a 4.0 GPA for the Spring of 2010.

MIDN Cox is the son of a Marine Corps Vietnam veteran. His father Steven Cox served a tour of duty in Vietnam as a Platoon Commander and earned a Purple Heart while serving from 1967 to 1974. MIDN Cox is following in his father’s footsteps in serving his country.

This was my first Scholarship Award presentation. MIDN Cox was highly deserving of this honor and an outstanding example for the USS Little Rock Scholarship Presentation Award. I look forward to going back to Iowa State and presenting him with the next $1000 award in 2011.

Cliff Wilson
USS Little Rock Board of Directors

Descendant's Winner
Maxwell Brown

Decendant's Award winner Mr. Maxwell Brown is a Bio Chemistry Major at Colorado College with a 3.56 GPA. Maxwell is the son of Bob and Carol Brown of Bastrop, TX (Bob was an IC Electrician on USS LITTLE ROCK in 1973-75). In addition to his studies Maxwell is Sophomore Class President, Bio Sciences Club Vice President, participates in volunteer service in the Colorado Springs Community, and is involved in his church’s activities. He hopes to become a medical doctor.

Kent Siegel with Max Brown and Dean of Students Ms. Rochelle Mason

USS LITTLE ROCK ASSOCIATION Scholarship Award
To: Mr. Maxwell Brown
Of: The Colorado College
16 September 2010

Maxwell Brown, son of a LITTLE ROCK shipmate, received his Association scholarship award in a ceremony on the campus of The Colorado College in Colorado Springs. In keeping with our practice of having an Association representative on hand to personally make the award, Scholarship Committee Chairman Kent Siegel was there to do the honors. Max received his framed certificate and $1000 check at the ceremonial flagpole and monument on the attractive central green of this small college that dates back to 1874. The Dean of Students and a group of Max’s friends and spectators were in attendance on this golden late afternoon in the shadow of Pikes Peak.

The kids at “CC’, as they call it, come from all over the USA. In chatting with them before and after the ceremony, it was clear to Kent that they were big fans of Max Brown. They listened with interest as Kent briefly described our Association and the two distinct lives if our ship, and gathered after the ceremony to look at pictures of the CL 92 and CLG 4.

In extolling the achievements that merited an Association scholarship, Kent called Max an exceptional young man who combines outstanding scholarship with tremendous energy and a positive attitude. In addition to his 3.56 GPA in a challenging Bio Chemistry major and Religion minor, he was Sophomore Class President, and Vice President of the Biosciences Club. He also finds time to mentor science students at a local under-resourced middle school, is active in his church, and plays on the college’s tennis team. For the past two summers, Max has interned at a cancer research center in his native Texas where he worked with nationally-known research scientists.

Kent pointed out that in selecting Max, our Scholarship Committee was greatly impressed by the essay in his application that told of his focus on honor courage and commitment and how he strives to embody these traits in the way he lives, learns, and reaches out to others. It was brilliant and truly reflective of his upbringing, character and achievements. Max is the son of Robert Paul and Carol Brown of Bastrop, Texas. Robert was an IC Electrician on Rock in 1973-75. Kent expressed regret that they could not be present and said he knew how proud they must be of their son. He asked Max to greet and congratulate them on behalf of our members. Finally, Kent thanked Max’s friends for their support and wished Max ‘all the best’ as he proceeds on the long journey toward his goal of becoming a medical doctor.

It was evident to Kent that our Association had picked another splendid winner in a succession of wonderful young people that we have helped with our scholarship awards.

2009

First Navy/Marine Winner
MIDN 2nd Class David Galiyas, USNR

Midshipman 2nd Class David Galiyas, USNR (below center) is an economics major with an impressive 3.93 GPA. Before transferring to University of Notre Dame in South Bend, Indiana he was selected as the number one midshipman at the University of Michigan. At the University of Notre Dame Midshipman Galiyas was academically the top midshipman in his class of 124 last year. He serves as a squad leader in the battalion and is on the staff of the battalion's yearbook the “Irish Wake”.

On September 16th, 2009 Midshipman 2nd Class David Galiyas, USNR (center) at Notre Dame University was presented with a U.S.S. Little Rock Association scholarship award by USS Little Rock Association member Bob Baker (right). Also shown above with Midshipman Galiyas and Bob Baker is University of Notre Dame NROTC Battalion Commanding Officer Captain Dale Nees.

After flying to South Bend Bob met with and briefed Lieutenant Wil Fensterer (Instructor) and then met and chatted with battalion CO, Captain Dale Nees, and XO, Commander Fritz Teuscher. At the 1730 weekly battalion formation Bob addressed the entire battalion in an auditorium setting, extending greetings from the Association and sharing a brief history of the LITTLE ROCK. He then shared with them details about the origin of the Association and our scholarship program.

Addressing Midshipman Galiyas, Bob commended him for his academic achievement, congratulated him on his selection and presented Midn Galiyas with a certificate and check for $1000, noting that another $1000 would follow next year upon re-certification by his CO. In addition, Bob presented him with a Little Rock Association ball cap. The battalion commander reciprocated by presenting Bob with an NROTC Notre Dame ball cap!

Second Navy/Marine Winner
Staff Sergeant Robert Pfeil, USMC

The resume of Staff Sergeant Robert Pfeil, USMC, studying at the University of Missouri, includes an impressive academic record with a 3.88 GPA and a designation as ‘the outstanding student’ in the school's Philosophy/Religious Studies Department. His nine years of active duty with the Marine’s includes four deployments to the Mid-East during which time he earned the Navy/Marine Corps Medal (for lifesaving), the Navy Achievement Medal and 23 Air medals. Staff Sergeant Pfeil is scheduled to be commissioned 2nd LT in May 2010.

On September 23, 2009 U.S.S. Little Rock Association member Captain Kent Siegel (above, left) presented the first of two $1000 scholarship award checks and a handsome framed certificate to Staff Sergeant Robert Pfeil (center) in a ceremony on the ‘Mizzou’ campus.

Introduced as ‘the visiting dignitary from Washington’, Kent conveyed greetings from the Association, described its makeup, purpose and activities, and told of the service life and capabilities of CL 92 and CLG 4.

During his visit Kent met with the skipper, CAPT Bob Wilson (above right), members of his staff and many of the students. His host was the Marine Officer Instructor, Captain Autumn Swinford, USMC (yes, a woman with two combat tours in Iraq – a most impressive officer). Following the ceremony, Kent was escorted around the outdoor lab exercise area where seven competitive teams rotated through battlefield challenge sites where they were scored on their ability to survive in such critical actions as minefield navigation, vertical wall assault, casualty evacuation, etc. (It is reported that Kent finished the exhilarating day by attending the ‘senior happy hour’ at a local pub!)

2008

Descendant Winner
Ms. Eileen T. McGarry

Ms. Eileen T. McGarry is a Psychology (Pre Education) Major at Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, CT. She is the daughter of Thomas E. McGarry, who served as a BM3 in 1st and 3rd Divisions in CLG 4 in 1970-72. She has regularly made the dean’s list with a 3.75 GPA; and her wide range of activities include practice teaching and mentoring of young girls, participation in dance ensemble, and leadership in campus events. Her faculty sponsor says, “She’ll make a terrific teacher.”

On October 19, 2008 Frank Berglas presented Ms. Eileen McGarry with a $1000 scholarship. Shown above is Thomas and Kathleen McGarry with their daughter Eileen, along with USS Little Rock Association’s Frank Berglas.

At the presentation made at Sacred Heart University Frank congratulated Eileen for having the academic and extra-curricular achievements to warrant her being an awardee. Underscoring the value of the scholarship, Frank told her that she had some tough competition.

In Frank's report to the Scholarship Committee he added: “Eileen McGarry impressed me as a fine young lady, with a desire to succeed – and this above all, I reminded myself, was the bottom line and which, in itself, justified the Committee's decision to choose her as a scholarship recipient.”

First Navy/Marine Winner
Staff Sergeant Geoffrey R. Lancaster, USMC

Staff Sergeant Geoffrey R. Lancaster, USMC is a participant in the Marine Enlisted Commissioning Education Program, enrolled as an Accounting Major at Old Dominion University in Norfolk where he maintains a 3.64 GPA. He is attached to the Hampton Roads NROTC Unit in which his leadership and combat experience are important in mentoring others. His 10 years of outstanding service as an infantry Marine will stand him in good stead as he takes his place in the officer corps as a 2nd Lt.

SSgt Lancaster’s service in the infantry includes two combat tours in Iraq with a Scout/Sniper team, and several deployments to Japan and to Cuba. In addition, he was selected this year to serve as the NROTC Battalion’s Sergeant Major, and is also is a mentor to all Marine-option midshipmen, and chairs the Midshipman of the Month selection board.

(Left to right) CDR Espritu, XO; Bob Baker, USS Little Rock Association; SSgt Lancaster; LT Domzalski; and Capt Parchman.

On October 9, 2008, USS Little Rock Association member Bob Baker, Lcdr. USN (Ret) visited Old Dominion University in Norfolk, VA to present the 2008 USS Little Rock Association scholarship award to Staff Sergeant Geoffrey Lancaster, USMC. Bob made the presentation at 6:15AM a the units morning formation. Bob recounts: " The entire unit was alert, despite the early hour. I addressed them and extended greetings from the Association, shared a brief history of the LITTLE ROCK, including my time aboard as an enlisted Radioman, and then shared with them the genesis and growth of our Association and our scholarship program."

Second Navy/Marine Winner
MIDN 2/C Matthew S. Zach, USNR

Midshipman 2/C Matthew S. Zach, USNR, has a 3.55 GPA in a tough Biochemistry Major at the University of Nebraska in Lincoln. He is the grandson of a U. S. Coast Guard enlisted man whose influence was important in his setting a goal to become a naval officer. He has exhibited strong military leadership potential in his NROTC unit; and has scored high on the Special Forces entrance exam, now being actively recruited by the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) community to serve there after being commissioned.

(Left to right) CO, Col. Eric Litaker, USMC; MIDN 2/c Matthew S. Zach, USNR; Capt. Kent Siegel, USS Little Rock Association

A USS LITTLE ROCK Association scholarship award certificate and $1000 check were presented to MIDN 2/c Matthew S. Zach, USNR, at the University of Nebraska NROTC Unit in Lincoln on 9 October 2008. CAPT Kent Siegel made the presentation at a Navy Birthday celebration by the NROTC. MIDN Zach (pronounced “Zock”) also received a cash scholarship award at this ceremony from Col. “B.J.” Jordan, USAF, on behalf the Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association (AFCEA). A leader in his unit, he cites his grandfather, an enlisted member of the U.S. Coast Guard, as an important influence in aspiring to a Navy career.

2007

First Navy/Marine Winner
Staff Sergeant Altan D. Kandiyeli, USMC

Staff Sergeant Altan D. Kandiyeli, USMC, is enrolled in a Secondary Education Major at the University of Idaho where he is attached to the NROTC Unit. He was selected for this course of study through the Marine Enlisted Commissioning Education Program based on his outstanding 8-year service record as a helicopter power plant specialist, crew chief and instructor. Upon graduation, he will be commissioned 2nd Lieutenant, USMC.

A USS LITTLE ROCK scholarship award was presented to SSGT Altan Kandiyeli at the University of Idaho on October 4, 2007. Captain Kent Siegel did the honors for the Association, conveying the first of two $1000 checks and the now-traditional framed certificate. Witnessing the presentation was the assembled battalion of the University of Idaho - Washington State University NROTC unit, SSGT Kandiyeli's wife Kari and their three children, as well as skipper CAPT Scott Ryder, USN (shown above on left) and his staff.

In October Captain Siegel received a very nice "Thank You" card and note from SSGT Kandiyeli. Click on the card to see the note.

Second Navy/Marine Winner
Officer Candidate Celeste D. Renoewick, USN

Officer Candidate Celeste D. Renoewick, USN, is an Industrial and Systems Engineering Major at Auburn University. She entered her 3-year course of study through the Seaman to Admiral Program and is attached to the NROTC Unit at Auburn. Her enlisted service record includes designation as an Honor Graduate at Boot Camp and completion of an Associate of Arts Degree (4.0 GPA) in her free time. She will be commissioned Ensign, USN, upon graduation.

USS Little Rock Association's Bill Stankiewicz presents a scholarship award to OC Celeste D. Renoewick at the Auburn University NROTC unit. Pictured with Bill and OC Renoewick is the NROTC's CO, CAPT Thomas R. Williams, USN.

Descendent's Winner
Ms. Lauren Collins Medlin

Ms. Lauren Collins Medlin is a Psychology Major at the College of Charleston in Charleston, South Carolina. Ms Medlin also volunteers at both the Medical University of South Carolina and the Westview Behavioral Health Services facility, is involved with the Miss America Foundation scholarship competition, and represents the College of Charleston as a cheerleader.

LCDR Bob Baker USN (Ret) (left) presents a USS Little Rock Association descendant scholarship award to Ms. Lauren Collins Medlin, granddaughter of Mr. Claude Manuel (right), at the the College of Charleston in Charleston, South Carolina on October 26, 2007. Also in attendance were Ms. Medlin’s parents, Mr. & Mrs. Tim Medlin, her grandmother, Mrs. Annie Manuel, Mr. Buchheit (Academic Advisor), David Goss (Director, Academic Advising and Planning), Dr. Charles Kaiser (Chair of the Dept. of Psychology), and several of Ms. Medlin’s classmates.

Claude A. Manuel, Lauren's grandfather was a F/1c aboard USS Little Rock CL-92 in 1946 and 1947.

Ms. Medlin received her second check from the the Association in September 2008.
The check was presented by her grandfather Mr. Claude Manuel.

2006

First Navy/Marine Winner
Officer Candidate Matthew E. Curtis, USN

Officer Candidate Matthew E. Curtis, USN, is enrolled in a Political Science Major at the University of Idaho where he is attached to the NROTC Unit. He is a veteran fleet sailor with 9 years of exemplary service as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician and additional qualifications in both Air and Surface Warfare. He entered his 4-year course of study through the Sea- man to Admiral Program and will be commissioned as an Ensign, USN, upon graduation.

Capt. Kent Siegel, Mrs. Kim Curtis, OC Matthew E. Curtis, Col. Bruce Barnes USMC
with Mr. & Mrs. Curtis's sons
at University of Idaho, Moscow, ID on 28 Sept 2006

Second Navy/Marine Winner
Officer Candidate Serena G.Gyi, USN

Officer Candidate Serena G.Gyi, USN, is an Electrical Engineering Major at Auburn University. She entered her 4-year course of study through the Seaman to Admiral Program and is attached to the NROTC Unit at Auburn. Her enlisted service record includes honors for class leadership at Boot Camp, Nuclear Field Class “A” School and Enlisted Nuclear Power School. She will be commissioned as an Ensign, USN, upon graduation.