(WXYZ) — Applications are now open for scholarships through Folds of Honor, an organization that gives scholarships to children and spouses of fallen or disabled service members.
Related: American Dunes Golf Club in Grand Haven will benefit military families, offer spectacular golf
The application period opened on Monday, Feb. 1 and runs through March 31.
There are two different options: Children's Fund, which helps give students in grades K-12 primary and secondary scholarship assistance, and higher education, which provides scholarship assistance for those pursuing a degree.
Folds of Honor was founded by Lt. Col. Dan Rooney, an F-16 fighter pilot who flew three combat tours in Iraq. He's also the man behind the new American Dunes Golf Club, which is opening in Grand Haven this spring.
Folds of Honor, Rooney said, was born in West Michigan, and the first event was held at Grand Haven Golf Club.
Rooney was flying home from his second tour of duty in Iraq, and when his flight landed in Grand Rapids, the pilot said they were carrying the remains of Cpl. Brock Bucklin, who had been killed in Iraq. On the plane was Brock's twin brother, Cpl. Brad Bucklin. Rooney watched Brad walk with the flag-draped casket to meet Brock's family on the tarmac, including Brock's young son, Jacob.
About two months later, Rooney said they held a little golf tournament at Grand Haven Golf Club, which raised about $8,500 with 67 people showing up. That was the inspiration for Folds of Honor.
Since it was founded, the organization has given more than 29,000 scholarships totaling more than $145 million. Among those who were awarded scholarships, Folds of Honor says 41% are minorities.
For more information on how to apply or donate, click here.
