Empowering Through Education: Our Scholarships

Important Update from the Membership Committee: Revamping Our Scholarship and Training Program for 2025

We are excited to announce that the First Battalion Ninth Marines Association is in the process of revamping our Scholarship and Training Program for 2025. As part of our ongoing commitment to support our veterans and their families, we are expanding opportunities for both scholarships and volunteer training.

In the coming year, we will offer multiple scholarships, including one open to the general public, and introduce new resources for volunteer education and development. This initiative is designed to help us serve a wider community, ensure the legacy of the 1st Battalion 9th Marines continues, and provide our members with the skills and resources they need.

Stay tuned for more details as we finalize the program, and thank you for your continued support!

Warm regards,
Hugh Hopson
Membership Committee Chairman
hhopson@19walkingdead.org

Scholarship Program

Welcome to the Scholarship page for the First Battalion Ninth Marines Association. Here we're committed to empowering our veterans and families through education, providing them with the financial support they need to achieve their academic goals. Explore our scholarship opportunities and see how we're investing in the bright futures of our community.

Guidelines

Purpose

These scholarship awards are provided to honor all the Marines and Sailors who have served with First Battalion Ninth Marines at any time during their military service.

Eligibility

Successful applicants must be members of the First Battalion Ninth Marines Association who are in good standing, their spouses, children, step-children, or grandchildren. In addition, eligible family members of 1/9 KIA’s and Association members who have passed away since Vietnam may apply (Proof of relationship must be provided). Active duty members of the 1st Battalion, 9th Marines are strongly encouraged to apply.

Applicants must be a graduating high school senior, a current college or tech school student, or a post-graduate student. Students must be enrolled in or planning to enroll in accredited courses.

Selection

Applicants will be selected based on academic achievement, outstanding character and citizenship, school and community service, and/or financial need.

Our Scholarship Recipients

  • Tyson Robert Kluesner

    2024 Scholarship Recipient
    Tyson is a History major at the University of Northern Iowa, inspired by a family legacy of military service. His great-grandfather served in the Battle of the Bulge during World War II. Tyson’s grandfather, a Vietnam War veteran who served in the 1st Battalion 9th Marines, survived multiple injuries and led with distinction, including as commander of the Legion and adjutant secretary of the VFW. Tyson’s deep respect for the sacrifices of those who have served has shaped his academic journey, and he is committed to honoring their legacies through his studies and future work.

  • Charles McClauley

    2024 Scholarship Recipient
    Charles, a student at Pennsylvania State University, is inspired by his grandfather, Larry Dwight McCauley, a Vietnam War veteran with the 1st Battalion, 9th Marines. Through shared stories and attending reunions, Charles has developed a deep respect for the Marine Corps. Passionate about sports and management, he aims to study management information systems, finance, or management at the Smeal College of Business. Charles’s experiences, including overcoming knee surgeries and managing high school sports teams, have shaped his future aspirations as a sports contract lawyer or entrepreneur. He is proud to continue his grandfather’s legacy.

  • Ryan Stillman

    2024 Scholarship Recipient
    Ryan Stillman
    Ryan is pursuing a degree in Public Health with a minor in Psychology at Western Connecticut State University, inspired by his grandfather, John Passtuszka, a Vietnam War veteran with the 1st Battalion, 9th Marines. Ryan’s long-term goal is to become a school counselor and coach, guiding students in their futures, including military service. He is dedicated to creating a supportive environment for students to thrive academically and athletically. Through his studies and future career, Ryan aims to honor his grandfather’s legacy by positively impacting young people’s lives and guiding them toward success.

  • Libby Wild

    2024 Scholarship Recipient
    Libby is pursuing a degree in Integrated Marketing and Communications at York College of Pennsylvania, inspired by her late brother, LCpl William Taylor Wild IV, who served with the 1st Battalion, 9th Marines. Although young during his service, Libby remembers her brother's passion for being a Marine and his dedication to family. His bravery and legacy continue to inspire her as she strives to make him proud in everything she does. Libby’s focus on understanding diverse audiences and communication psychology reflects her drive to honor her brother’s legacy in her work and life.

  • Nadia Binford

    2023 Scholarship Recipient
    Nadia Binford is the granddaughter of Charles D. Evans, a former 1/9 Corpsman with Bravo Company in 1969 and an Association Lifetime Member. Nadia is about to enter her second year at West Virginia University. With a firm foundation built on the values instilled by her grandfather, Nadia is set to make a significant impact through her studies.

  • Michael Holden

    2023 Scholarship Recipient
    Michael Holden, son of Hugh Holden, who served as a 1/9 Corpsman with Bravo Company 3rd Platoon from 1968-1969. He is attending the University of Oregon, studying Business with a focus on Management.

  • Brian Garon

    2023 Scholarship Recipient
    Brian Garon served with First Battalion Ninth Marines from 2012-2014. A Lifetime Member of our Association, Brian is currently attending College of the Canyons. His time in service has imbued him with a deep sense of discipline and commitment, which he now applies to his academic pursuits.