ST. GEORGE — The Ric Backman Scholarship dinner is held in honor of Ric Backman, a member of the Detachment and SunRiver resident, who passed away nearly five years ago.
A VietNam veteran, Ric lost both legs at Dong Ha, RVN August 25, 1968. It was the funds from the sale of the special golf cart Ric used that provided the starting point for the scholarship fund. According to Claudia, his wife, he used the cart every day rain or shine to play golf.
Marines attending universities in Southern Utah and two Air Force JROTC Cadets will be recognized with scholarships at the dinner held at the SunRiver Ballroom March 30.
The Scholarship Committee will screen a number of applicants from Southern Utah University, Dixie State University, Rocky Vista University and Dixie Tech College.
Special awards of $500 are granted to JROTC Senior Cadets at Pine View and Dixie High Schools.
The applicants for the Ric Backman Scholarship have to be either Marines or FMF Corpsmen who have served with Marines. Standards are set by Marines for Marines, so the competition is tough.
The Ric Backman Scholarship is in its fifth year as a program of the Detachment and is awarded annually at a special dinner held by Utah Dixie Detachment 1270, Marine Corps League.
To support the program, the Detachment sponsors a silent auction at the dinner featuring upscale items. Many items focus on things that Marines might be particularly interested in. They also welcome any donations throughout the year.
Col. Dave Waters, USMC Retired, and present Commandant of the Detachment will conduct the program.
Tickets are available for $35 by calling Jerry Harris at 435-668-9664.