Know a veteran who deserves recognition for their service? University of Rio Grande wants to put the spotlight on a deserving Scioto County veteran. Each year, the group recognizes the Jim Marshall Veteran of the Year.
Outstanding Contributions
The Jim Marshall Veteran of the Year Award recognizes folks who have served their county in the United States Armed Forces, then continued to contribute to their community in civilian life.
Those contributions can be:
- Professional
- Civic
- Advocating for veterans
- Public service
- Community service
Jim Marshall
The award is named after Rio Grande Alum Jim Marshall. Marshall was a member of the college’s basketball team known for his character, positive attitude, performance, and leadership.
He left college and enlisted in the U.S. Military during the Vietnam War. Marshal was a 1st Sergeant, Kilo-Battery-4th Battalion-13th Marines. He was awarded a Purple Heart after he was injured in combat.
After his service in the Marines, Marshall joined the 684th Army National Guard in 1974. According to Director of Alumni relations, Delyssa J. Edwards, he is remembered: “for a legacy of diligence, vigilance, and insistence on excellence.”
Rotating Schedule
Veterans from six local counties are considered for the award. Each year the eligible county rotates. Here’s the schedule:
- 2019 – Jackson County
- 2020 – Scioto County
- 2021 – Meigs County
- 2022 – Vinton County
- 2023 – Gallia County
- 2024 – Lawrence County
- 2025 – Open (other counties will be considered)
Who’s Eligible
In addition to outstanding service to their community, nominees must also:
- Have received an honorable discharge from active duty from the U.S. Armed Forces
- Be of good moral character with no felony convictions
Winners are recognized at a special banquet. They receive 20 free dinner tickets to the banquet. The event is held on the last Saturday in October at Rio Grand Community College.
The event is open to the public and all veterans can attend for free.
How To Apply
To apply you’ll need to head over to this link: https://www.rio.edu/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Jim-Marshall-Award-Packet.pdf.
Download the form and complete it according to instructions. Deadline to submit is July 31.
Mail the completed packet to:
University of Rio Grande
c/o Jeff Lanham
218 N. College Avenue
Rio Grande, OH 45674