World War II Illinois Descendants Scholarship

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WWII Illinois Scholarship Recipients

WWII Illinois Descendants Scholarship Program

A real concern of the Illinois WWII Veterans was that younger generations were not being taught the lessons learned from WWII nor would they understand the impact this war had on our nation and in fact, the globe. To foster this important memory local WWII veterans would regularly visit schools to speak about their war experiences hoping to make lasting impressions on the “next generation”. After much discussion these WWII veterans felt the need to raise funds and establish a scholarship program for that next generation or the descendants of WWII Veterans while they were still able to help.

"When I go out and speak at the schools and to the students, they don't concentrate too much on that part of U.S. history. These scholarships would be a great way to keep those memories about World War II alive. We're getting to the age where time is getting important. I'm sure the scholarship program will pay off in the years to come."  
                                    C. K. “Tuck” Belton, B17 Pilot, Army Air Force
                               -– shot down over North Holland, only survivor

As evidence of their determination, in 2008 the Board created the WWII Illinois Veterans Descendants Scholarship Fund. "We finally have the scholarship program established! I think it's great,"
                                    C. K. “Tuck” Belton, WWII Veteran
                                    Illinois Veterans Memorial Board Member

Since 2010, 24 students have been awarded scholarships and well over $30,000 has been offered to offset the costs of higher education for this “next generation.”  Compliments of The Greatest Generation

As evidence of their determination, in 2008 the Board created the WWII Illinois Veterans Descendants Scholarship Fund. "We finally have the scholarship program established! I think it's great," C. K. “Tuck” Belton, WWII Veteran and WWII Illinois Veterans Memorial Board Member stated. Since 2010, 24 students have been awarded scholarships and well over $30,000 has been offered to offset the costs of higher education for this “next generation”.  Compliments of: The Greatest Generation.

Past WWII Veterans Committee felt, "Students won't have to drive by the WWII memorial."  Applying or receiving the descendants’ scholarship will act as a reminder of the sacrifice the WWII Veterans made to secure their present freedom.

"This particular scholarship program is integrated into the community. Students applying for this scholarship will have something to remind them of World War II–a simple reminder of the atrocities that can occur."


                             John Carrigan, President
WWII Illinois Veterans Memorial Board

 John’s father, Maurice (Bud) was a World War II Veteran serving in part on The Red Ball Express as a Lieutenant. John’s mother, Therese, was a WWII French civilian POW and was liberated thanks to the U.S. military.

How to Apply and Eligibility Descendants Scholarship

The WWII Illinois Descendants Scholarship Fund is administered by the Community Foundation for the Lincoln Land. The scholarship is funded through donations, commemorative brick sales, and monies initially collected statewide to build the World War II Illinois Veteran Memorial.

  • The scholarship is available for descendants of WWII veterans throughout the State of Illinois.
  • Annually, two $1000 scholarships will be offered and awarded to high school seniors statewide who are preparing to attend college.
  • Students must maintain a minimum 4.0 non-weighted grade point average.
  • The final step for applying students is to compose an essay.

Full details and deadlines to apply for these scholarships available at:  Community Foundation for the Lincoln Land,

Scholarship Acceptance Form opens on May 1 of each school year.
E: [email protected]  |  P: (217) 789-4431  |  F: (217) 789-4635

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