Submitted article

At the Stanley Boyd Scholarship and Award Program on May 27, 2021, Joan Chwala, the ALA Education Chairman, presented scholarship awards to two Senior girls. Winners of the $200 scholarships were Annabelle Sanchez and Kelsey Kuehni. The qualifications for winning were based on essays that reflected on the service of a veteran in their family.

Annabelle Sanchez reflected on the service of her father, Ruben Emiliano Gonzalez II, who served in the Army. She calls herself an Army Brat, and explained that she learned how to be resilient,

humility, empathy, independence, and a work ethic. She says

these traits have enabled her to survive the various challenges in

her life, including the loss of her sister to cancer. Sanchez also thanks her brother, Ruben Matthew Sanchez, who has chosen to follow in their father's footsteps. She is proud of both of them for their strength, resilience and honor as they continue to protect the

USA, and the rights of her citizens.

Kelsey Kuehni reflected on the service of her Uncle Pete. She

was able to watch him be sworn into the military at Fort Leonard

Wood. When he returned, he was diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome. (He had witnessed his best friend get blown up by a bomb.) She stated that he would have flashbacks and flip out. He is on the road to recovery, has persevered, and is a true hero in Kelsey's eyes. "He has made sacrifices for himself, his family, but most importantly his county that he swore to protect," stated Kelsey.

Honorable Mention award went to Emily Keeku, who reflected on the service of her grandfather who served in the Korean War and many of her uncles who were active duty servicemen or in the reserves. She is proud of the veterans she has met through her volunteer work at the Stanley Rodeo Committee. She specifically thanks David Endru who has finally earned the right to "give orders" rather than just following them.

The Boyd American Legion Auxiliary is pleased to offer appreciation to these young ladies for researching the veterans

in their families. We invite them to attend our meeting and visit with us this summer.

Boyd Legion Scholarship winners Kelsey Kuehni and Annabelle Sanchez. Submitted photo.