MOLINE, ILLINOIS (March 29, 2021) — In recognition of “Vietnam War Veterans Day” the Vietnam Veterans of America Q.C. Chapter 299 announces the following 2021 scholarship recipients:
1. Boyoung Shim, formerly of the United States Army and currently with the US Army Reserves, Trinity School of Nursing
2. Joseph Montalvo formerly with the United States Coast Guard, Black Hawk College
This scholarship was established in 2016 to support veterans who are pursuing a STEM, trade or technical post-secondary degree, certification or apprenticeship. These two distinguished scholars and dedicated veterans will each receive $1,500 for school expenses including tuition, room and board, books, and education related expenses.
Ray Hamilton of Chapter 299 commented, “The Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 299 created this scholarship and endowed it to ensure worthy local area veteran residents may obtain financial support in their educational endeavors whether it be academic, or trade related under the guidance of The Moline Foundation. This scholarship will continue in perpetuity long after Chapter 299 is gone, and it will stand as a legacy to the Chapter’s commitment to community service.”
In the scholarship essay, Boyoung Shim states that she credits her military experience for showing her the next steps in her life. She says, “The military gave me the dream of what I want to be and showed me the path to go for the rest of my life.” Shim continues, “I am sincerely honored to have been selected as the recipient of the Vietnam Veteran’s Scholarship. With this scholarship, I am going to be able to move forward in pursuit of my degree. I hope one day I will be able to help other students achieve their goals just as you have helped me. Thank you for enabling this opportunity.”
Joseph Montalvo says that what he learned in the military inspires him to help others. He says, “I still carry the Coast Guard values of honor, respect and devotion to duty with me to this day. I aspire to continue service to others.” Montalvo further states “It feels great to know I am supported in my efforts as a veteran. This support will help me push through my obstacles to reach my goal and help others. I am grateful.”
Thomas G Reagan, Coordinator of Veterans Services at Black Hawk Community College shared “The Moline Foundation and VVA 299 are great community partners in assisting student veterans reach their educational goals.”
About The Moline Foundation
The Moline Foundation, founded in 1953, is a community foundation which provides funding to health, human services, education, community development, the arts, and other charitable organizations which benefit the citizens of Moline and the surrounding area. The Moline Foundation receives and administers charitable gifts for all citizens in a seven-county region including Rock Island, Henry, Mercer, Warren, Henderson, and McDonough Counties in Illinois, and Scott County in Iowa.
