Note: for a downloadable MS Word version of the application see the bottom of the page.

BACKGROUND. In 1970 the Red River Valley Fighter Pilots Association (RRVA) initiated a Scholarship Program with the objective of "taking care of our own." Since its inception through fall 2007, the program has awarded over 1,047 grants for over $1,768,745 to the children and spouses of Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Army aircrew members.

The RRVA is an IRS 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization, eligible for Combined Federal Campaign contributions as well as charitable donations from private individuals and organizations. However, much of the program's funding continues to be from River Rat sponsored activities, members, and private donations. To participate in the Independent Charities of America (ICA) listed in Combined Federal Campaign (CFC Campaign #2114) the River Rat Scholarship Program is required to meet very stringent requirements.

ELIGIBILITY. Initially scholarship grants were only awarded to dependent sons and daughters of KIA/MIA/POW of US aircrews lost while serving in Southeast Asia. Over the years, the eligibility criteria have been revised to now include:

1. The immediate dependents (spouse and children—natural or adopted) of any aircrew member of the US Armed Forces listed in KIA or MIA status resulting from any combat activity involving our military since August, 1964, including those lost in the World Trade Center and Pentagon events of 9/11/01;
2. The immediate dependents (spouse and children—natural or adopted) of military aircrew members killed while performing aircrew duties on a non-combat mission;
3. The immediate dependents (spouse and children—natural or adopted) of current and deceased RRVA members. If deceased, the RRVA member must have been in good standing at the time of death.

PROCESS. Scholarship grants are awarded annually in August for the upcoming academic year. Applicants are urged to use the website application (see below) or may request applications from the National Office. In either case, application packages must arrive at the designated address on the application, post marked no later than May 15th. Final selection and award amounts are based on each applicant's demonstrated financial need, scholastic achievement, college entrance examination score, and other school, church, community, and civic activities and accomplishments. The Scholarship Committee and National Board seek to complete the annual review and approval process by late July. Applicants are advised shortly thereafter as to the RRVA's decision whether or not to award a grant.

Awarded funds will be sent directly to the recipient's institution of learning. The funds are to be used for tuition, books and other academic expenditures, including room and board.

For a downloadable MS Word version of the RRVA Scholarship Grant Application click here. An application package may also be requested from: